Operative outcome of 41 ankle fractures: a retrospective analysis

A retrospective study was performed to evaluate subjective and radiographic outcomes in 41 patients who underwent operative treatment of their ankle fracture. A number of risk factor variables were analyzed, a modified form of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons Ankle Scoring Scale was used to assess subjective patient satisfaction, and independent and multiple variable statistical analyses were undertaken to explain the outcomes that were observed. On the subjective scale, a maximum of 53 points was possible, and a score of > or =50 points was considered a satisfactory result. Fifty-six charts were reviewed and 45 patients met the criteria for inclusion in the study; 41 patients (91.11%) returned postoperative questionnaires. Male gender was the only independent variable that statistically significantly increased the likelihood of scoring > or =50 points on the subjective scoring scale. Being obese, being a current smoker, sustaining a high fibular fracture, undergoing repair of the tibiofibular syndesmosis, and experiencing a painful internal fixation device all statistically significantly decreased the likelihood of scoring > or =50 points.

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