Surgical Treatment in Ankle Fractures and Our Results

Abstract

Purpose: Ankle fractures are the common fractures that are seen in Traumatology. Because of the ankle biomechanics, type of treatment is very important. This clinical study was hold in order to evaluate the surgically treated ankle fracture cases in the 3rd Clinic of Ankara Numune Hospital between November 1992 and June 1996. Material and
Method: Fifty two of 72 surgically treated ankle fractures were included in the study. Fracture types were classified according to Lauge-Hansen and Danis-weber. In all cases open reduction of articular surfaces and rigid internal fixation was done. Results were considered subjectively, objectively and radiographically according to Weber protocol.
Results: Of 52 cases, 26 were bimalleoler fracture, 14 were fracture of lateral malleol, 10 were fracture of medial malleol, and 2 were trimalleoler fracture. Cases were classified according to Danis-Weber. The average of three types with very well results was 59.6%. The average of three types with bad results was 40.4%. Than cases were classified according to Lauge-Hansen. The average of very well and well results was 62.06%, and the average of bad results was 37.94%. 22 cases with very well and well results were operated in the first five days.
Discussion: Because ankle fractures are intraarticuler fractures, anatomical reduction of articular surfaces is necessary. Classification methods, which are used, are not helpful for choosing type of treatment and foreseeing the prognosis. After the injury, the longer the time till to operation, the worse the results. Early motions after early weight bearing has no effect. Because there is not a common protocol for evaluating the results, compering different series is very difficult.