Management of Pediatric Supination-inversion Ankle Injuries Involving Distal Tibia and Intraepiphyseal Distal Fibula...

Area of Science:

• Orthopaedic Surgery
• Pediatric Traumatology
• Sports Medicine

Background:

• Pediatric ankle fractures are common, with physeal and periphyseal injuries comprising a significant portion.
• The Salter-Harris classification is widely used, but Ogden described type 7 fractures as completely intraepiphyseal, propagating from the articular surface without physis involvement.
• Ogden type 7 fractures are frequently observed in the distal fibula in pediatric patients experiencing supination-inversion injuries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address the lack of specific treatment guidelines for Ogden type 7 pediatric ankle fractures.
• To present a successful management strategy for these intraepiphyseal fractures.
• To highlight the importance of recognizing fracture variants in pediatric ankle injuries.

Main Methods:

• Case series presentation of three pediatric patients with Ogden type 7 distal fibula fractures.
• Description of the specific management approach implemented for each case.
• Evaluation of patient outcomes, including range of motion, pain, and return to activities.

Main Results:

• All three patients treated with the described management achieved full, painless ankle range of motion.
• Patients successfully returned to all their previous activities and sports without any complications.
• The chosen management strategy proved effective for Ogden type 7 pediatric ankle fractures.

Conclusions:

• Ogden type 7 fractures of the distal fibula in pediatric patients can be effectively managed.
• A tailored management approach can lead to excellent functional recovery and return to pre-injury activity levels.
• Recognition of these specific fracture variants is crucial for orthopaedic surgeons managing pediatric ankle injuries.