Ankle fractures resulting from rotational injuries

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Traumatology
• Skeletal Biology

Background:

• Ankle fractures are common skeletal injuries.
• Management decisions are primarily based on ankle stability.
• Diverse fracture patterns necessitate tailored treatment approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline current management strategies for various ankle fracture types.
• To discuss the role of imaging in assessing ankle injuries.
• To highlight considerations for complex fractures and specific patient populations.

Main Methods:

• Review of established orthopedic principles for ankle fracture management.
• Discussion of surgical versus non-surgical treatment based on fracture stability.
• Integration of stress radiography and imaging findings for diagnostic aid.

Main Results:

• Stable ankle fractures (e.g., isolated lateral malleolar) typically managed non-surgically.
• Unstable fractures (e.g., bimalleolar) usually require open reduction and internal fixation.
• Posterior malleolar fractures >30% articular surface displacement need reduction and stabilization.

Conclusions:

• Ankle fracture management is guided by stability, with clear indications for surgical intervention.
• Syndesmotic injuries require specific attention to tibiofibular stability.
• Patient comorbidities like diabetes or advanced age do not preclude standard treatment recommendations.