PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of anterolateral approach of the ankle for the distal tibial fracture in aspect of preventing complication and acquiring union. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Authors reviewed 21 patients of distal metaphyseal fracture of the tibia treated by anterolateral approach and lateral plating method from February, 2000 to May, 2002. Mean follow-up period was 17 months (12~29 months). There were twelve type A, two type B, and four type C patients according to AO/OTA classification. We have analyzed the bone union rate and Ovadia`s functional scale. We also reviewed the complication rate, such as soft tissue problem and postoperative infection. RESULTS: In all cases union was achieved and mean time to union were 16 weeks. The functional result by Ovadia's scale were 17 excellent cases and 4 good cases in objective evaluation, and 19 excellent cases and 2 good cases in subjective evaluation. Wound infection occurred in one case, but the infection was controlled after plate removal and the union was acquired through cast immobilization. There was no other complication, such as soft tissue necrosis. CONCLUSION: The anterolateral approach is a safe and worthwhile method for distal tibia fracture while avoiding some of the complication associated with standard anteromedial approach and plating method.