Management of ankle sprains during pregnancy: evaluation of 96 cases

The aim of this study was to suggest a safe management method for the diagnosis and treatment of ankle sprains in pregnant patients.

Between November 2005 and January 2013, 96 pregnant patients with ankle sprains referred to the department of orthopedics and traumatology were evaluated, retrospectively. The Ottawa ankle rules were used to assess the need for radiologic evaluation. Radiological procedures: Surface USG, X-ray (0,6 mGy, mortise view), MRI (T1 and STIR) and fluoroscopy with 0,8 mGy/s doses 0,4 ms single shot views in surgery room. The results of the operated patients were evaluated with AOFAS scoring system.

Forty-four (45,8%) patients were treated with conservative methods and there was no need for radiological evaluation. USG was used in 17 (17,7%), MRI in 24 (25%), X-ray in 4 (4,1%) and both USG and MRI in 7 (7,2%) patients during diagnosis. An algorithm was created for the diagnosis and treatment of pregnant patients with ankle sprains. No complications due to radiological and surgical procedures occurred over pregnancies. The AOFAS score was 83 (65-100) in the operated patients.

There is no standard management method for the diagnosis and treatment of pregnant patients with ankle sprains. The algorithm presented in this study may be useful. Good results can be obtained with an appropriate preparation and surgical technique.