Three-Dimensional Anatomically Pre-Contoured Locking Plate for Isolated Weber B Type Fracture

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Traumatology
• Ankle Fractures

Background:

• Weber B ankle fractures are common injuries requiring surgical intervention.
• Lateral locking plates are frequently used for fixation, but the necessity of additional lag screws is debated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the functional and radiographic outcomes of 3D pre-contoured lateral locking plate fixation for isolated Weber B fractures.
• To determine the necessity of an interfragmentary lag screw when using this plate fixation.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective study comparing two groups of patients with isolated Weber B fractures.
• Group A (41 patients) received 3D plate and lag screw fixation; Group B (31 patients) received 3D plate fixation only.
• Outcomes were assessed using functional (McLennan and Ungersma criteria) and radiographic evaluations, along with operation time and time to bony union.

Main Results:

• Both groups demonstrated satisfactory functional and radiographic outcomes.
• Group B (plate only) showed significantly better functional outcomes (p < 0.0046) and shorter operation times (p < 0.001).
• No significant differences were observed in radiographic outcomes (p = 0.143) or time to bony union (p = 0.0821) between the groups. No postoperative complications occurred.

Conclusions:

• 3D pre-contoured lateral locking plate fixation provides effective treatment for isolated Weber B ankle fractures.
• The use of an interfragmentary lag screw is not necessary and may lead to inferior functional outcomes.
• This fixation method offers satisfactory results regardless of lag screw insertion, simplifying the surgical procedure.