Fixation Of Fibular Fractures Research Articles

The Effect of Contact Model on Stress Distribution on Internal Fixation of Fibula Fracture

The fibula is a bone with a small cross-sectional area that is located in the calf parallel to the tibia bone and includes part of the lower leg. Technically, this bone only receives a load of approximately 15% of the total load received by the lower leg. However, under certain conditions, the fibula can be broken and require medical attention to repair it. The most common medical solution to improve this condition is to install an internal fixation. The main function of internal fixation is to keep fractured bones stabilized and in alignment. When the internal fixation is in place, the internal fixation will receive tension, at least by the patient’s body weight while supporting the legs. The magnitude of the received stress value will certainly influence the strength of the material from the internal fixation. Experimental studies are very difficult to carry out. Therefore, in this study a numerical analysis of the stress distribution on the internal fixation of the fibula bone was carried out, using the finite element method. The influence of the contact model between the bones used, namely friction and bonding, on the results of the finite element analysis was studied before further research could be carried out. The load given is considered equivalent to the average body weight of the Indonesian population, which is around 63 kg. The material employed is AISI 316. Parameters for friction and bonded models used refer to previous researchers. The results of the analysis show significant differences in the distribution and magnitude of stress on the fixation plate due to the use of different contact models.

Intramedullary nail fixation of fibular fractures in combination with extra-articular distal tibial fractures (AO/OTA 43A): a single-center retrospective study.

Treatment of fibular fractures associated with extra-articular distal tibia fractures is technically challenging and the purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of intramedullary nail fixation of fibular fractures when associated with this fracture. Between January 2018 and December 2021, 33 patients presenting extra-articular distal tibia fractures and fibular fractures (AO/OTA 43A) were treated. Clinical and radiological data were collected during routine postoperative follow-ups. Thirty-one patients were monitored for a period of time ranging from 12 to 23 months, with an average follow-up of 17.5 ± 3.3 months. Fibular bone union took an average of 3.6 ± 0.9 months. At the last follow-up, the average fibular alignment and postoperative ankle talocrural angles were 1.8° and 9.1°, respectively. No detectable radiographic rotational malalignment and serious complications related to the fibular incision was observed. The average AOFAS and OMAS scores at the most recent follow-up were 88.3 ± 6.2 and 87.4 ± 6.0, respectively. Intramedullary nail fixation worked well to keep the fibula in place in fibular fractures connected to extra-articular distal tibia fractures.

Does a rupture of the lateral ankle ligament need to be repaired in supination-adduction type II (OTA/AO 44A2) fractures?

To evaluate the outcomes of patients with supination-adduction (SAD) type II (OTA/AO 44A2) fractures who had a lateral ankle ligament rupture repaired compared with patients who did not have a lateral ankle ligament repaired using patients who underwent fibula fracture fixation as a control group. A retrospective analysis of all 104 patients diagnosed with SAD type II fractures from January 2011 to December 2020 and managed operatively was performed. The patients were divided into three groups: 32 patients with ruptures of the lateral ligaments that were not repaired (group A), 34 patients with ruptures of the lateral ligaments that were repaired (group B), and 38 patients with fibula fracture fixation acting as the control group (group C). The objective outcomes including radiographic findings, the ankle range of motion, the manual ankle stress tests, and complications were gained from the record of the last time in outpatient clinics. The functional outcomes including the identification of functional ankle instability (IdFAI) scores were collected postoperatively at 12-month intervals to assess clinical outcomes. The Manchester Oxford Foot Questionnaire (MOXFQ) and Karlsson scoring scale were also recorded at the last follow-up. The mean follow-up of the objective and subjective functional outcomes was 23.4 (range, 13-42) and 76.9 (range, 25-134) months, respectively. There was no significant difference in the radiographic findings, the ankle range of motion and complications between the three groups. All ankles were found to be stable using the manual ankle stress test in both group A and group B. The IdFAI scores showed a significant difference between group A and group B (1.12 ± 1.3 vs 0.35 ± 0.69; p < 0.001) in the first year of follow-up and no significant difference after the first year. No differences were noted in MOXFQ scores or Karlsson scores among the groups. Directly repairing the lateral ligament could minimize the proportion of the first year of postoperative functional ankle instability, although the final stability of the ankle and clinical outcomes were not significantly different in SAD type II fractures. Level III, retrospective comparative case series.

The role of fibula fixation in combined distal-third tibia and fibula fractures: a systematic literature review.

The role of concomitant fibula fracture fixation in distal-third tibia fractures regarding alignment, union, and functional outcome is still a topic of debate. In this review, we summarize the available comparative literature regarding fibula fixation in distal third lower leg fractures. A systematic literature review of articles published between January 2000 and January 2022 in the PubMed, Cochrane, and EMBASE databases about this topic was performed. 746 unique studies were identified of which four randomized-controlled trials and six retrospective studies were included. Nine studies compared alignment after tibia fixation with or without fibula fixation, six studies reported on tibial union, and three studies reported on functional outcome between groups. Pooling of data was not possible due to varying outcome measures and inclusion criteria. Fibula fixation was associated with less rotational malalignment, while there does not seem to be consensus regarding the effect on sagittal and coronal alignment. Six studies reported on the effect of fibula fixation on tibial union. None of these studies found a significant difference between treatment modalities. Furthermore, one out of three studies reporting functional outcome described a marginal beneficial functional outcome after fibula fixation. Ultimately, no differences in complication rates between treatment modalities were described. Fixation of the fibula in distal-third lower leg fractures does not seem to have a significant effect on coronal and sagittal tibial alignment. Furthermore, fibula fixation is associated with significantly less rotational malalignment, although the clinical importance of this finding is questionable as true differences in rotational alignment between treatment modalities are small. Finally, fibula fixation does not affect union, functional outcome, or complication rate as adjuvant to tibia fixation. II.

Patient Reported Outcomes with the Use of Fibular Nail Fixation, Retrospective Review of 41 Cases

Category: Trauma; Ankle Introduction/Purpose: Traditionally, open reduction and internal fixation of unstable lateral malleolus fractures with plate and screw constructs has been considered the gold standard treatment. More recently, the use of an intramedullary fibula nail has gained popularity as an alternative treatment method using a mini open incision to obtain anatomic reduction. The minimally invasive nature of this technique and the no profile load bearing/sharing implant is reported with very low complication rates and a much lower incidence of implant irritation and removal. We report our surgical and patient reported outcomes for a cohort of single surgeon consecutive fibula nails with proximal and distal locking fixation. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed prospectively collected data on 41 patients that were implanted with the Fibulock® Fibula Nail (Arthrex, Naples, Florida, USA). All nails were implanted by a single surgeon. Intraoperative reduction quality was recorded, and patients were followed post operatively with radiographs that were assessed for maintenance of reduction, healing, and complications. Patient reported outcome questionnaires (PROMs) were collected preoperatively and at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months postoperatively. The Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) assessed the patient’s functional status in terms of activities of daily living and sports. The Visual Analogue Score (VAS) was also collected. Results: All 41 patients had one- to two- year follow-up (14.68 months ± 5.92). Demographics are listed on table 1. Forty of the patients were reduced via mini open incision and one was reduced closed. There were no conversions to a plate, no intraoperative complications, and no cases of loss of reduction postoperatively. No patient required revision surgeries, no cases of delayed union or nonunion, and zero superficial or deep postoperative infections. Statistical analysis revealed a significant difference between preoperative and postoperative FAAM scores overall (+67.52, p &lt; 0.001), within activities of daily living (+68.07, p &lt; 0.001), and sport (+65.95, p &lt; 0.001). Also, there was a significant difference between preoperative VAS and postoperative VAS (+4.73, p &lt; 0.001). Conclusion: Our results support existing literature that fixation of fibula fractures with an intramedullary nail with proximal and distal locking capabilities is an alternative option to a plate and screw construct, with a very low incidence of hardware related complications requiring removal, and favorable patient reported outcomes.

Effect of Plate and Screw Fixation on Stability of Weber B/Supination-External Rotation Fractures with Partial Deltoid Ligament Injury (SER4a): Robotic-Based Joint Testing

Category: Trauma; Ankle Introduction/Purpose: Fibular fractures with signs of concomitant deltoid ligament injury have been operated on with plate and screw fixation of the fibula for decades. More recently, clinical studies have suggested that some fibular fractures have only partial deltoid ligament injury and that the deep posterior tibiotalar ligament may be intact (SER4a), allowing for nonoperative treatment. The purpose was to determine whether fibula fracture fixation using plate and screws improves stability and restores normal joint kinematics in such fractures. It was hypothesised that fixation of the fibula fracture does not add significantly to the stability of SER4a models or restore normal joint kinematics. Methods: Fifteen cadaveric foot and ankle specimens underwent biomechanical testing using a six-degrees-of-freedom force- movement robotic arm in three states: intact joint, SER4a model (anterior inferior tibiofibular ligament sectioned + oblique trans syndesmotic fibular osteotomy + superficial layer of deltoid ligament sectioned + deep anterior tibiotalar ligament sectioned) and SER4a model + plate and screw fixation of the fibula. Joint stability was measured in lateral translation, valgus, and talar internal- and external rotation in three talocrural joint positions: 20° plantarflexion, neutral, and 10° dorsiflexion. Fluoroscopy was used to measure isolated talar lateralisation and talar tilt. The foot was rigidly fixed to a custom pedestal, while the tibia was rigidly fixed to the robot arm through a load cell. Talar lateral translation at neutral ankle position was the primary outcome. Results: Fixation of the fibular fracture reduced lateral translation by 0.16 millimetres (P = .101) at neutral ankle position (See Figure 1). In general, the tests for lateral translation and valgus showed no differences between the SER4a models and the SER4a models with fibular fracture fixation. As for talar internal rotation, the fixation only slightly increased stability. But, when the talus was externally rotated, the fixation provided stability. Although the fixation improved stability during rotations, it did not fully restore the native ankle kinematics. Conclusion: The results suggest that plate and screw fixation of the fibular fracture does not significantly reduce instability or restore intact joint stability in SER4a models. These results support the nonoperative treatment of these fractures, as suggested by previous clinical studies.

A comparison of outcomes of locking versus non-locking plate fixation for the distal fibula fractures: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

A locking plate (LP) or non-locking plate (NLP) can be used for distal fibula fracture fixation. However, the advantages of LP over NLP in patients with distal fibula fractures are not clear. In terms of indications, the role of the two plates probably differs; however, to draw comparative conclusions, we conceptualized this systematic review and meta-analysis of studies that directly compared the two plates, wherein both groups' indications and baseline parameters were similar. An electronic literature search was performed using PubMed/Medline, Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases for studies comparing the LP versus NLP fixation for the lateral malleolus fracture. A total of 18 studies were included in qualitative and quantitative analysis. A subgroup analysis was performed for patients aged < 55years and patients aged > 55years. The statistical analysis was performed by Review Manager Software version 5.4.1. A meta-analysis of 4243 fractures was performed across 18 studies. The rate of fracture union and overall complication rates did not differ between the two fixation groups with an OR of 0.71 (95% CI 0.26, 1.96, p = 0.51 and 1.11 (95% CI 0.84, 1.47, p = 0.47, respectively. There is no difference in the reoperation rate due to minor or major complications between the two groups. There was no difference in functional outcome (MD -0.85, with 95% CI -5.63, 3.93, p = 0.73), but NLP has a shorter surgical duration (MD 3.0, with 95% CI 0.26, 5.75, p = 0.03). A leave-one-out sensitivity analysis performed for overall complications affected the final outcome of the meta-analysis. This meta-analysis demonstrates no clear benefit in selecting LP over NLP for the fixation of lateral malleolus fractures.

Tibiofibular intussusception complicating fracture fixation of distal third both bone leg fracture

There is no concord about indications for Fibular osteosynthesis in the extra articular fracture of Distal Tibia. A case report demonstrates that the Fibular fracture fixation increases the rotational stability in patient with Distal Tibia Fracture with reduce risk of malunion.

Biomechanical analysis of different internal fixation methods for special Maisonneuve fracture of the ankle joint based on finite element analysis

ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to evaluate the biomechanical properties of different internal fixation methods for Maisonneuve fractures under physiological loading conditions. MethodsFinite element analysis was used to numerically analyze various fixation methods. The study focused on high fibular fractures and included six groups of internal fixation: high fibular fracture without fixation + distal tibiofibular elastic fixation (group A), high fibular fracture without fixation + distal tibiofibular strong fixation (group B), high fibular fracture with 7-hole plate internal fixation + distal tibiofibular elastic fixation (group C), high fibular fracture with 7-hole plate internal fixation + distal tibiofibular strong fixation (group D), high fibular fracture with 5-hole plate internal fixation + distal tibiofibular elastic fixation (group E), and high fibular fracture with 5-hole plate internal fixation + distal tibiofibular strong fixation (group F). The finite element method was employed to simulate and analyze the different internal fixation models for the six groups, generating overall structural displacement and Von Mises stress distribution maps during slow walking and external rotation motions. ResultsGroup A demonstrated the best ankle stability under slow walking and external rotation, with reduced tibial and fibular stress after fibular fracture fixation. Group D had the least displacement and most stability, while group A had the largest displacement and least stability. Overall, high fibular fracture fixation improved ankle stability. In slow walking, groups D and A had the least and greatest interosseous membrane stress. Comparing 5-hole plate (E/F) and 7-hole plate (C/D) fixation, no significant differences were found in ankle strength or displacement under slow walking or external rotation. ConclusionCombining internal fixation for high fibular fractures with elastic fixation of the lower tibia and fibula is optimal for orthopedic treatment. It yields superior outcomes compared to no fibular fracture fixation or strong fixation of the lower tibia and fibula, especially during slow walking and external rotation. To minimize nerve damage, a smaller plate is recommended. This study strongly advocates for the clinical use of 5-hole plate internal fixation for high fibular fractures with elastic fixation of the lower tibia and fibula (group E).

Percutaneous Reduction and Provisional Pinning of the Distal Fibula: A Novel Way to Maintain Fibular Length in Temporary Stabilization.

Ankle fractures are commonly observed by orthopaedic trauma surgeons, foot and ankle surgeons, and general orthopaedists with more than 135,000 fractures surgically treated every year in the United States. 1 The soft tissue envelope surrounding the osseous anatomy of the ankle is limited and many injuries, including those that result from higher injury mechanisms and/or those occurring in hosts with vascular and metabolic comorbidities may benefit from a delay in definitive fixation; this may minimize risks of wound healing issues and fracture-related infection. 2,3 Open fractures may benefit from temporizing fixation after debridement and irrigation for the same reasons. 4-6 The benefits of temporizing external fixation in pilon fractures has been recognized for decades. 7 The use of ankle-spanning external fixation for ankle fractures and dislocations has become more frequently used to maintain coronal and sagittal alignment of the ankle mortise as a bridge to definitive fixation. 8-10 However, standard ankle-spanning external fixation techniques do not always directly restore fibular length and rotation, especially in fracture patterns with syndesmotic disruption and/or segmental fibular comminution. Some authors have advocated for limited internal fixation of fibula fractures at time of external fixation application to address this problem, 7 but this still necessitates a surgical approach through a traumatized soft tissue envelope and potentially compromises posterolateral and anterolateral approaches that could be used to address associated Volkman or Chaput fragments. Delayed distal fibular open reduction and internal fixation of shortened fractures has frustrated orthopaedic surgeons for decades and techniques such as "push-pull" screws 11 and extensive soft tissue dissection 12 are often necessary to restore anatomic fibular reduction of length and rotation. Given these challenges, the senior author began to use a technique of percutaneous reduction and buried provisional pinning of the distal fibula to the talus for fibula fractures with persistent shortening after ankle-spanning external fixation of injuries not deemed appropriate for immediate open reduction and internal fixation. We aim to report early results and describe this novel, low-cost surgical technique.

Distal Fibula Fracture Fixation: comparison between the One Third Tubular plate and Anatomical Contoured Locking plate

Distal Fibula Fracture Fixation: comparison between the One Third Tubular plate and Anatomical Contoured Locking plate

Posterior Antiglide Plating vs Lateral Neutralization Plating for Weber B Distal Fibular Fractures: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Clinical and Biomechanical Studies

Distal fibular fractures are extremely common, yet there remains controversy about which type of plating technique is the most appropriate. We aimed to compare clinical and biomechanical outcomes following posterior antiglide plating and lateral neutralization plating for Weber B distal fibular fractures. A systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature was conducted by two independent reviewers according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. We included all comparative studies of distal fibular fracture fixation with either a posterior antiglide plate or a lateral neutralization plate. Our primary outcome of interest was reoperation for hardware removal. Secondary outcomes included hardware discomfort, peroneal tendon irritation, infection, wound complications, and mechanical torque to failure. A total of 1122 patients with Weber B ankle fractures were included across nine eligible clinical studies, and 76 cadaveric ankles were subject to testing across three eligible biomechanical studies. Meta-analyses revealed a two-fold greater odds of requiring removal of hardware in the lateral plating group compared to the posterior plating group (odds ratio [OR] 2.48, 95% CI 1.58 to 3.91, P < .0001), and a three-fold greater odds of experiencing hardware discomfort in the lateral plating group compared to the posterior plating group (OR 2.96, 95% CI 1.83 to 4.80, P < .0001). There were no significant differences in rates of peroneal tendon irritation, infection, wound complications, operative time, and torque to failure when comparing the two plating methods. The results of this review indicate that using posterior antiglide plating for distal fibular Weber B-type fractures is associated with significantly fewer reoperations due to hardware complications and less hardware discomfort compared to lateral neutralization plating. This technique does not appear to increase the risk of peroneal tendon irritation or increase operative time.

Syndesmotic malreduction may be caused by a lag screw used in distal fibula fracture fixation

Joint Diseases and Related Surgery (JDRS), the official journal of the Turkish Joint Diseases Foundation, is an international, peer-reviewed, immediate open access journal. All published articles in JDRS has been free for everyone, without embargo, since 1990.

Study of a novel economical method of surgical management of complex distal tibia fractures with hybrid external fixator

Background and Objectives: Fractures of the distal tibia, especially complex open fractures have been historically difficult to manage due to the poor soft tissue envelope around the bone and the precarious blood supply. In this study, we aim at devising an economical model of a hybrid external fixator for complex distal tibia fractures by using reused Ilizarov rings and A O rods after adequate methods of sterilization and study the functional outcome, time to union and complications associated with it.Objectives: To devise an economical model of hybrid external fixator for the management of complex distal tibia fractures and to study the Functional outcome, Time to union and associated complications.Methods: Total 16 patients with complex distal tibia [AO type 43(A1-A3, B1-B3, C1-C3)] fractures were treated in our institution with an economical model of hybrid external fixator using reused Ilizarov rings and A O rods after adequate methods of sterilization between June 2019 to December 2021. Patients were followed up every 6 weeks till 6 months and then at the end of 1 year. Patients were evaluated for functional and radiological outcome using the Ovadia and Beals scoring criteria. Time to union and Immediate and late complications were analyzed.Results: Total 16 patients were evaluated postoperatively for functional and radiological outcome using Ovadia and Beals criteria which showed 3 patients (18.75%) had well to excellent and 13(81.25%) patients had fair outcome. The average duration for fracture union was 33.25 weeks. 6(37.5%) patients had pin tract infection which was treated with adequate antibiotics and pin tract care. No deep infections were noted. There were 7(43.75%) cases of joint stiffness, 5(31.25%) cases of mal union and 2(12.5%) cases of delayed union. Reusing the non invasive components of the fixator helped us in reducing the overall operating cost of the surgery by 35-40%.Interpretation and Conclusion: In our study, we found that reusing the non invasive components of a hybrid external fixator is an economical treatment option for complex distal tibia fractures when combined with minimal internal fixation of fibula fracture, adequate antibiotic coverage, wound and pin tract care and aggressive physiotherapy.

An Oblique Trans-Syndesmotic Screw to Augment Fixation of Distal Fibula Fractures: A Technique Guide

Category:Trauma; AnkleIntroduction/Purpose:A subset of patients with low, transverse fractures of the lateral malleolus are at increased risk of malreduction and late loss of reduction. In patients with poor bone quality and transverse or short oblique fractures at or distal to the tibiotalar joint, distal fixation is often inadequate with a single interfragmentary lag screw. Furthermore, these fractures are susceptible to malreduction by pre-contoured locking plates. To address this, a technique was developed to augment fixation of the distal fragment and decrease the likelihood of loss of reduction. The senior author's technique for this procedure, as well as indications for the technique and a few representative cases, are provided.Methods:This technique involves placement of an oblique tricortical or quadricortical screw from the distal fibula into the tibia in an distal-lateral to proximal-medial direction. The screw is placed either outside of or through the distal-most hole of a one-third tubular plate placed in a neutralization position. The screw trajectory is similar to that of a typical syndesmosis screw in the sagittal plane but is aimed proximally rather than parallel to the tibial plafond. The screw enters the tibia at Chaput's tubercle, just lateral to the joint. The indications for this technique are transverse and short oblique Danis-Weber B distal fibular fractures in which there is inadequate purchase between the plate and the distal fragment. While the purpose of this screw is not to stabilize the syndesmosis, it can be used with other augmentation techniques, such as trans-syndesmotic screws, in high-risk patients with osteoporosis and/or neuropathy.Results:This technique has been used for many years by the senior author. There have been no implant failures (e.g. broken screws) or major complications associated with this technique. Three representative cases demonstrate appropriate indications and outcomes for this technique. These include patients with significant neuropathy or osteoporosis who present with a particularly troublesome fracture pattern (transverse fibular fracture at or below the level of the tibiotalar joint). This screw, along with any other syndesmotic screws, is removed at 3-4 months according to the senior author's protocol.Conclusion:A distal oblique trans-syndesmotic screw can be used to supplement current fibular fracture fixation constructs. It is easy to place under fluoroscopic guidance and generally is removed after fracture union, similar to standard syndesmosis screws. The use of this screw helps prevent the malreduction that can potentially occur when treating transverse or short-oblique Weber B distal fibular fractures with a locking plate. In our series of patients at a large urban tertiary referral center, this technique has produced good outcomes with no reportable complications.

Fibula fixation in the treatment of tibial pilon fractures – Is it really necessary?

BackgroundThere is a lack of consensus about the role of fibula fixation in these complex fractures, with only two clinical studies in the literature. We hypothesize that the fibula fracture need not be fixed in the tibial pilon fractures if primary stability can be achieved with tibial fixation alone. MethodsWe reviewed 79 patients with operatively treated tibial pilon with associated fibula fractures from 2007 to 2017 and divided them into two groups; patients with fibula fracture fixation and those without fixation. The primary outcome measure was any mechanical complications. Secondary outcomes were wound complications and other morbidities. ResultsThere were 54 (68.4%) patients with fibula fixation and 25 (31.6%) patients without fixation. There were no statistically significant differences in mechanical complications between the two groups. However, patients without fibula fixation were noted to have more wound complications (44% vs 25.9%, p = 0.108) although this was not statistically significant. In terms of removal of implant (ROI), there were no differences noted in patients with or without fibula fixation (33.3% vs 28%, p = 0.796). There were also no significant differences in ROI for those fixed with plate and screws when compared to those fixed with Rush rod and K wire within the group with fibula fixation. ConclusionFibula fixation in the treatment of tibial pilon fractures is not routinely necessary and does not result in decreased mechanical complications such as malunion, delayed union, nonunion and implant failure. Fibula fracture fixation should be reserved for cases where it may aid reduction or provide additional stability.

Functional outcome of postero-lateral approach for fixation of posterior malleolus fracture in case of trimalleolar fractures of ankle: A study of 32 cases

Introduction: Trimalleolar fracture fixation has undergone a sea change in the recent times. Posterior malleolus component used to be fixed by anteroposterior approach which has not been optimum as far as results are concerned. Posterolateral approach has been well described in literature but very few are using it. This study has tried to evaluate the results of this approach. Methods: Total 32 patients were included in this study. They underwent posterolateral approach and fixation of fibular fracture and posterior malleolus fracture in prone position . Medial malleolus fracture was fixed in supine position. Posterior malleolus was classified based on Haraguchi classification on CT scan. Final evaluation was done using Olerud and Molander scoring system. Results: All fractures united within three months duration. Excellent results were seen in 40.6%, Good in 43.8%, Fair in 9.4% and Poor in 6.2% cases. Most of the patients could return to pre-injury work levels by six months. Conclusion: Direct posterolateral approach allows fixation of fibula and anatomical restoration of ankle joint congruity and syndesmotic stability also, obviating the need of syndesmotic screw. Posterior malleolus fixation is essential in tri-malleolar fractures for good functional outcome.

Extra-articular distal tibia fibula fracture managed with single posterolateral approach: a case report

&lt;p class="abstract"&gt;Extra-articular distal tibia fractures involve distal tibia approximately 4 cm within tibia plafond with no articular extension. The proper preoperative care, planning and selection of surgical approach is very essential to prevent postoperative wound-related complications. We present a case of a 29 year female patient, presented with left ankle pain and swelling with a wound over the medial aspect of the ankle. X-ray of the left ankle showed extra-articular distal tibia fibula fracture with no neurovascular deficit. We managed both the fractures with open reduction and internal fixation using a single posterolateral approach. At present 1 year follow-up, the patient is having a good range of ankle motion with radiological union with no implant failure and wound-related complications. Extra-articular distal tibia fibula fracture fixation using single posterolateral approach is a viable alternative approach to medial or anterolateral approach in cases of medial or anterior soft tissue problems. It helps in getting a better functional outcome, early mobilisation with less wound-related complications.&lt;/p&gt;

Deltoid Ligament Injuries Associated With Ankle Fractures: Arguments For and Against Direct Repair.

Ankle fractures are an extremely common orthopaedic injury treated by surgeons on a routine basis. The deltoid ligament is torn in a large number of these fractures and is commonly seen with associated radiographic changes of medial clear space widening. The clinical relevance of addressing the injured deltoid ligament with acute surgical repair has been debated for decades. The early literature documenting repair or reconstruction of the deltoid ligament dates back to the 1950s. Most commonly, orthopaedic surgeons restore the lateral column directly with fibula fracture fixation. The injury may then be further evaluated intraoperatively by stress testing to ensure syndesmosis integrity and mortise stability with indirect medial column reduction, which allows for secondary healing of the medial deltoid ligamentous complex. This popular treatment paradigm is based primarily on literature from the 1980s and has not been thoroughly evaluated with modern surgical implants, techniques, and research methods. A review and background of the supportive literature for and against deltoid ligament repair in the setting of acute ankle fractures is presented. Undeniably, the deltoid ligament complex has been proven to confer some element of stability to maintaining a congruent ankle mortise. The commonly cited data in favor of not repairing the deltoid ligament warrants careful consideration to allow accuracy in obtaining the best patient outcomes with the most predictable surgical methods available.

Consequences in plating of fibula of distal metaphyseal tibial and fibular fractures: A teaching hospital based study in North India

The tibia is exposed to frequent injury. Distal tibial metaphyseal fractures are often the result of high-energy trauma, usually associated with distal fibular fractures. The presence of the ankle joint allows rotatory deformity after fracture, and care should be taken during reduction to correct such deformity. Fixation of fibular fractures in distal tibial metaphyseal fractures is controversial, although fixation of the fibular fracture by a plate and screws partially stabilizes comminuted fractures of the distal tibial shaft or metaphysis and considered in distal tibial fractures treated with intramedullary fixation to prevent valgus deformity even there is increased potential for delaying the tibial fracture healing. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to compare the functional and radiological outcome of fractures of distal third tibia and fibula treated by interlocking nail of tibia with fibular plating and without fibular plating. Material and Methods: A total of 24 patients who had fractures of lower third tibia and fibula are included in this study. 24 patients were divided into two groups A and B (12 patients in each group) based on fibular fixation. Results: Functional results were evaluated based on classification system for result of treatment by Johner and Wruhs criteria. Functional Outcome according to Johner and Wruhs criteria based on clinical rotational alignment, radiological valgus angulation and ankle range of movements, in group A 7 patients (58%) had good results and 5 patients (42%) had fair results. In group B 8 patients (67%) had good results and 4 patients (33%) had fair results (p=1.00 statistically not significant).Conclusion: Based on the results of the study, it was confirmed that fixation of fibula first, along with interlocking nailing of the tibia maintains limb length and decreases the malalignment and malrotation of the tibia in distal third fractures of tibia and fibula as compared with only interlocking nailing of tibia in distal third fractures of tibia and fibula.