Platelet Rich Plasma Injection in Pilon Fractures

Patients who sustain broken ankles have a very high risk of developing arthritis soon after injury (within 2 years). This arthritis can cause increased pain and a decrease level of function, especially if the injury occurs at an early age. During and shortly after ankle injury, there is an inflammatory chemical process that takes place in the ankle that can cause damage to the cartilage in the ankle joint. The investigators want to use what is called Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP), which is produced from a small amount of the patient's own blood, to inject into the injured ankle to see if they can decrease the inflammation that happens after the injury and to see if they can decrease arthritis.