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Lateral Locking Plate Fixation of Simple Weber B Fibula Fractures Without a Lag Screw Yields Excellent Radiographic
Nasima Mehraban1, Alexandra R Lew1, Ian M Foran1
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois (NM, ARL, IMF, SL, DDB, KSH).
Foot & Ankle Specialist
|November 8, 2021
Summary
A novel lateral locking plate technique for Weber B fibula fractures shows promising results, achieving excellent union and alignment without complications. This alternative method may offer advantages over traditional lag screw fixation.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Traumatology
- Biomechanical Engineering
Background:
- Traditional fixation for Weber B fibula fractures involves lag screws and lateral neutralization plates.
- This technique can be challenging in osteoporotic bone or small fibulas, potentially leading to complications.
- An alternative fixation method is needed for routine treatment of simple Weber B fibula fractures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate an alternative first-line surgical technique for simple Weber B fibula fractures.
- To assess the efficacy of a lateral locking plate without a lag screw.
- To compare outcomes with traditional fixation methods.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of 52 patients with Weber B fibula fractures.
- Open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) using a lateral locking plate with cortical screws proximally and locking screws distally.
- No screw crossed the fracture site; union and malunion defined by established criteria.
Main Results:
- All 52 patients achieved bony anatomic union of the fibula and congruence of the mortise.
- No cases of malunion or nonunion were reported.
- The mean follow-up was 6.2 months.
Conclusions:
- A lateral locking plate technique without a lag screw is a viable alternative for treating simple Weber B fibula fractures.
- This method demonstrated excellent radiographic union and alignment.
- Further prospective studies are warranted to compare lateral locking plates with traditional fixation methods.
