Current concepts in ankle fractures

Area of Science:

• Orthopaedic Surgery
• Biomechanics
• Traumatology

Background:

• Ankle fractures are common orthopaedic injuries.
• Unstable patterns require operative management to restore joint stability and kinematics.
• Minimizing post-traumatic degenerative changes is a key goal.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current concepts in operative ankle fracture management.
• To analyze techniques from biomechanical and clinical perspectives.
• To provide an overview of essential fixation and rehabilitation strategies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of current concepts in ankle fracture management.
• Analysis of biomechanical principles related to ankle stability.
• Evaluation of clinical outcomes for various surgical techniques.

Main Results:

• Operative management aims to restore ankle mortise stability and native kinematics.
• Specific techniques reviewed include posterior malleolus fixation, syndesmosis fixation, deltoid ligament repair, and fibular nailing.
• Early weightbearing protocols are discussed in relation to clinical outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Comprehensive management of unstable ankle fractures is crucial for preventing degenerative joint disease.
• A biomechanical and clinical understanding guides the selection of appropriate surgical techniques.
• Optimizing fixation and rehabilitation, including early weightbearing, improves functional recovery.