Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 9, 2026
09:14
A Mouse Model of Ankle-Subtalar Complex Joint Instability
Published on: October 28, 2022
[Posttraumatic complications after pediatric ankle injuries]
1Klinische Abteilung für Kinderorthopädie, Universitätsklinik für Kinder- und Jugendchirurgie, Medizinische Universität Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 34, 8036, Graz, Österreich. frank.schneider@klinikum-graz.at
Der Orthopade
|July 23, 2013
Summary
Childhood ankle fractures, though rare, can cause serious growth problems. Age at fracture significantly impacts the risk and type of growth disturbances in the distal tibia or fibula.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Orthopedics
- Pediatric Traumatology
- Growth Plate Physiology
Context:
- Ankle fractures in children are uncommon but can lead to significant long-term complications.
- Growth disturbances in the distal tibia or fibula are a primary concern following pediatric ankle fractures.
- The timing of the fracture relative to skeletal maturity is crucial in determining the clinical relevance of growth disturbances.
Purpose:
- To analyze the impact of age at fracture on the development of growth disturbances in the distal tibia and fibula.
- To differentiate the outcomes of various ankle fracture types and their association with growth complications.
- To highlight the clinical significance of growth plate alterations following pediatric ankle injuries.
Summary:
- While ankle sprains are common and benign in children, ankle fractures, though rare, can result in serious complications like rotational or axial deformities and joint abnormalities.
- Growth disturbances at the distal tibia or fibula are influenced more by the child's age at the time of fracture than by fracture type, severity, or specific fracture gap characteristics.
- Inhibition of growth at the distal tibial growth plate commonly leads to varus deformity and shortening, representing the most frequent type of growth disturbance. Valgus deformity is less common and typically results from inadequate fracture reduction.
- Transitional fractures, occurring during growth plate closure, do not involve growth disturbances but may be overlooked, potentially leading to joint surface irregularities.
Impact:
- Understanding the age-dependent risk of growth disturbances is critical for accurate diagnosis and management of pediatric ankle fractures.
- This knowledge aids in predicting potential long-term skeletal deformities and informs treatment strategies to minimize growth-related complications.
- Early recognition and appropriate management of ankle fractures can prevent persistent deformities and ensure optimal skeletal development in children.
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