Management of Geriatric Ankle Fractures.

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Geriatric medicine
• Bone health

Background:

• Osteoporosis significantly compromises bone integrity in geriatric patients, complicating ankle fracture management.
• Elderly individuals face unique challenges in recovery due to reduced bone quality and increased risk of complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current operative and non-operative management strategies for ankle fractures in geriatric patients with osteoporosis.
• To evaluate approaches promoting early mobility and functional recovery in this vulnerable population.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of recent studies on ankle fracture management in elderly osteoporotic patients.
• Analysis of fixation techniques including ORIF (Open Reduction Internal Fixation), hindfoot nailing, and fibular nailing.

Main Results:

• Both surgical and non-surgical treatments can achieve comparable functional outcomes, but differ in complication profiles.
• Advanced fixation methods are being explored to address poor bone quality and facilitate early weight-bearing.
• Individualized care pathways and standardized rehabilitation protocols are crucial for optimal results.

Conclusions:

• No single treatment is universally optimal; management must be personalized based on patient frailty, comorbidities, and functional needs.
• Multidisciplinary and personalized approaches are essential for geriatric patients with osteoporotic ankle fractures.
• Future research, particularly randomized controlled trials, is needed to refine surgical indications and rehabilitation strategies.