English

Abstract

BACKGROUND: 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. OBJECTIVES: To clinically evaluate the, Rate of union, the functional outcome of the treatment, Complications, to compare the results of the study with the studies reported. DESIGN: prospective study. SETTING: Sapthagiri Medical College & Hospital. Bangalore. METHODS: During the period of July 2012 to December 2013, thirty adults with malleolar fractures of the ankle were operated at Sapthagiri Medical College & Hospital., 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 twentyfive 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.