A prospective study of osteosynthesis of malleolar fractures of ankle in adults

Abstract

Introduction: In this age of road traffic accidents and sports activities the occurrence of malleolar fractures of the ankle are common. Malleolar fractures account for nearly 2% of all the fractures. Methods: During the period of July 2015 to July 2016, thirty adults with malleolar fractures of the ankle were operated at Sapthagiri Institute of Medical Science And Research Center, Bangalore. They were treated by open reduction and internal fixation by one-third tubular plate or dynamic compression plate, tension band wiring, malleolar screws or a combination of these. The rating was done as per Weber’s protocol. Results: Acceptable results were obtained in twenty- five out of thirty patients, with 83.3 % of the patients having excellent to good rating. Five patients (16.6%) results were poor, because of pain on activity, restriction of range of motion at the ankle and subtalar joint, and restriction of activity. Conclusion: Surgical management of malleolar fractures of the ankle by open reduction and internal fixation remains the treatment of choice, to ensure anatomical joint restoration, union, and good function of the ankle joint.