Calcaneal distraction vs. cast immobilization for the preoperative treatment of patients with Danis-Weber type C ankle fractures: a case-control study.

Introduction: Ankle fractures require temporary fixation to allow swelling to subside prior to surgery; this is typically achieved using calcaneal distraction or cast immobilization. We compared the results of these methods in the treatment of Danis-Weber type C ankle fractures. Methods: This retrospective study analyzed the data of 86 patients with Danis-Weber type C ankle fractures, of whom 40 underwent calcaneal distraction and 46 underwent cast immobilization. Clinical measures including preoperative detumescence time, daily swelling value, skin condition, and pain, SF-36 Health Survey (SF-36) score and ankle scores were compared between the two groups. Results: Baseline characteristics did not differ significantly between the groups. Calcaneal distraction resulted in a lower preoperative detumescence time (6.22 ± 0.64 vs. 8.94 ± 0.82 days) and lower daily swelling values compared with cast immobilization, leading to a lower skin necrosis rate. Resting pain scores were significantly lower in the calcaneal distraction group than in the cast immobilization group at various postoperative time points (P < 0.05). Ankle function scores were higher in the calcaneal distraction group than in the cast immobilization group at 12 months postoperatively (P < 0.05), indicating improved outcomes. Additionally, the SF-36 quality of life scores of patients undergoing calcaneal distraction were notably superior to those in the cast immobilization group. Discussion: Calcaneal distraction is superior to cast immobilization in reducing soft tissue swelling, alleviating pain, and enhancing ankle function recovery in patients with Danis-Weber type C ankle fractures. Early calcaneal distraction upon hospital admission is recommended to optimize surgical outcomes.

Adverse effect of smoking on surgical site infection following ankle and calcaneal fracture fixation: a meta-analysis.

Purpose: Studies have reported conflicting findings on the relationship between smoking and surgical site infection (SSI) post fixation for ankle and calcaneal fractures. This meta-analysis explored the effect of smoking on SSI incidence following open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of these fractures. Methods: Full-text studies on smoking's influence on post-ORIF SSI rates for closed ankle and calcaneal fractures were sourced from the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases, with no consideration given to language or publication date. Study quality was appraised using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Odds ratios (OR) and the corresponding 95% CIs were determined using random-effects models. This meta-analysis adhered to the PRISMA guidelines and was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023429372). Results: The analysis incorporated data from 16 cohort and case-control studies, totaling 41 944 subjects, 9984 of whom were smokers, with 956 SSI cases. Results indicated smokers faced a higher SSI risk (OR: 1.62; 95% CI: 1.32-1.97, P < 0.0001) post ORIF, with low heterogeneity (I 2 = 26%). Smoking was identified as a significant deep SSI risk factor (OR: 2.09; 95% CI: 1.42-3.09; P = 0.0002; I 2 = 31%). However, the subgroup analysis revealed no association between smoking and superficial SSI (OR: 1.05; 95% CI: 0.82-1.33; P = 0.70; I 2 = 0%). Conclusion: Smoking is associated with increased SSI risk after ORIF for closed ankle and calcaneus fractures. Although no clear link was found between superficial SSI and smoking, the data underscore the negative influence of smoking on deep SSI incidence.

Extensor Retinaculum Syndrome of the Ankle: An Adult Case Series.

Background: Extensor retinaculum syndrome (ERS) is a relatively rarely diagnosed compartment syndrome-like entity caused by elevated pressures in the tissues deep to the superior extensor retinaculum (SER). ERS is identified as out-of-proportion anterior ankle pain, pain with passive toe plantarflexion, elevated SER pressures (>40 mm Hg), and ultimately toe extension weakness and first web space numbness. Although previously described in a pediatric population, this case series is the first to our knowledge in an adult population. Methods: Seven nonconsecutive cases over 18 years from 2 surgeons are reported who underwent complete SER release for ERS either through the direct lateral approach to the fibula or the anterolateral approach to the distal tibia. All were associated with traumatic injuries including 3 bimalleolar ankle fractures, 3 tibial pilon fractures, and 1 distal tibial/fibular shaft fracture. All patients developed writhing anterior ankle pain worsened with passive toe plantarflexion. SER compartment pressures ranged from 50 to >135 mm Hg. Five cases displayed decreased first web space sensation. Results: The diminished or absent first web space sensation uniformly improved post-release. Complications included 1 patient with complex regional pain syndrome type 1, 1 patient required hardware removal, and 2 had persistent but improved first web space sensation changes. Conclusion: Clinical suspicion for possible ERS should arise after distal tibial/fibular fractures when the excruciating pain localizes to the ankle instead of the classic anterior leg muscle bellies. If pain is worsened with passive toe plantarflexion, this diagnosis should be considered. Recommended treatment involves complete release of the SER anywhere on the anterior surface between the tibia and fibula depending on the approach needed for fixation of the associated fracture. Level of Evidence: Level IV, case series.

Effect of Topical Vancomycin on Surgical Site Infections in Ankle Fractures: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Controlled Trial.

Background Applying topical vancomycin has shown a decrease in the likelihood of surgical site infections (SSIs) in surgeries linked to a heightened risk of severe and resistant infections. Nevertheless, the effectiveness of this prophylactic approach has not been assessed in open ankle surgeries with internal fixation. Objective This study aimed to assess whether topical vancomycin diminishes the risk of SSI in patients with ankle fractures undergoing open reduction with internal fixation. Methods A randomized, controlled, double-blind clinical trial was carried out. Patients were divided into two groups in a 1:1 ratio. The control group received the standard prophylactic treatment with IV cephalothin 1 g, while the intervention group was administered topical vancomycin (1 g) in addition to the standard prophylactic treatment. The main outcomes were the SSI rates at 14 days, 28 days, and three months post-surgery, based on relevant clinical signs and laboratory tests. Results One hundred thirty-two patients were randomized (51.2% female), with 66 subjects included in each intervention arm. A total of 97.7% of them completed the study. Both groups were homogeneous in baseline characteristics. There were two SSIs in both the vancomycin group (3.3%) and the control group (3.5%), with no statistical differences (p = 0.945). The microorganisms isolated as causal agents were Staphylococcus aureus and Acinetobacter baumannii. By the three-month follow-up, no infections were noted in both intervention groups. Conclusion These results indicate that the topical administration of vancomycin may not represent an advantage in preventing SSI in ankle fractures requiring open reduction with internal fixation at the three-month postoperative stage.

Use of locking fibular plates versus non-locking dual plate fixation: A biomechanical study.

Introduction: Distal fibula osteoporotic comminuted fractures are challenging to treat and are often treated with periarticular locking plates. This study examined the biomechanical difference between locked plating and dual non-locked one-third tubular plating. Methods: Using an osteoporotic Sawbones fibula model, simulated fracture were fixated with one-third tubular dual plating and locked periarticular plating. The samples were then torqued to failure and peak torque, stiffness, and displacement were recorded. Results: The peak torque of the dual plating group was found to be statistically higher than the periarticular locked plating group (0.841 Nm and 0.740 Nm respectively; p = 0.024). However overall stiffness calculated at each 10° increment of displacement was noted to have no significant difference between the two constructs. Conclusion: Dual non-locked plating of distal fibula osteoporotic comminuted fractures is biomechanically equivalent to locked periarticular plating.

[How does trauma secondary to unexpected extreme weather affect orthopaedic surgery departments? : An epidemiological study on the Filomena snowstorm]. / Wie wirken sich Traumata infolge unerwarteter Wetterextreme auf orthopädisch-chirurgische Abteilungen aus? : Eine epidemiologische Studie über den Schneesturm Filomena.

INTRODUCTION: Trauma secondary to extreme weather events may heavily impact the normal activity of orthopaedic surgery departments, especially in places not prepared to deal with them. The Filomena snowstorm, which happened in January 2021, was one of the greatest snowstorms ever in Spain. During it, the constant influx of trauma patients caused Orthopaedic Emergencies Department (OED) to collapse. The primary objective of this study was to describe the orthopaedic injuries and changes in fracture's epidemiology observed during this exceptional period. Secondary objectives were to analyse the collected variables in order to minimize the future impact of these unexpected extreme weather events. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A retrospective cohort study between patients that came to the OED during the snowstorm (Filomena group) and those who came on the same period of the previous year (Control group) was made. The following data were collected: age, sex, injury location, injury mechanism, diagnosis, AO/OTA fracture classification, treatment type (conservative vs surgical) and delay of surgical treatment. RESULTS: A total of 1237 patients were included, 655 patients from the Filomena group and 582 from the Control group. One in two patients in the Filomena group sustained a fracture (50.7% vs 23.2%). The most frequent diagnosis on the Filomena group was distal radius fracture (16.2%), which was five times more frequent than in the Control group (3.4%). A significant increment was also observed in the incidence of ankle (21.7%) and proximal humerus (33%) fractures. In the Filomena group, surgically treated fractures increased by 168%, being more severe, as C­type fractures were more prevalent (23% vs 13%). Mean delay to surgery was 6.78 days during the snowstorm. CONCLUSION: Unexpected snowstorms entail an exponential rise in orthopaedic care demand and OED pressures. A significant increment in orthopaedic trauma surgery, up to 168% more, particularly distal radius, proximal humerus and ankle fractures, is to be expected, which will imply elective surgery cancellation, hurting patients and increasing costs.

Isolated Tillaux Fracture in Adults - Literature Review Based on a Rare Case Report.

Isolated Tillaux fracture is a rare anterolateral distal tibia fracture frequently misdiagnosed in adults. It typically occurs in adolescents nearing skeletal maturity by avulsion of the anterior-inferior tibiofibular ligament. This case-based literature review study aims to elicit the existing information regarding this fracture in adults, and summarize its injury mechanism, diagnosis, and treatment procedures. According to the literature, this is only the eighth case described: a 46-year-old woman that suffered an isolated Tillaux fracture with 4 mm of displacement, and open reduction and fixation with double cannulated screws were performed. After proper rehabilitation, an excellent functional and radiological outcome was reached. It is important to recognize and appropriately treat these distinct injuries to prevent further instability, degenerative changes, and ankle joint function limitation. Early diagnosis and appropriate osteosynthesis play a significant role in a successful recovery prognosis.

Total Closed Talar Dislocation without Ankle Fracture: A Case Report.

We report a case of a 61-year-old female who presented to the emergency room after a fall from stairs. A total closed talar dislocation without talus or ankle fracture was diagnosed. The treating surgeon indicated an open reduction after an unsuccessful attempt at closed reduction. After six months of follow-up, the patient reported mild pain and partial weight-bearing with no discomfort; however, signs of talar avascular necrosis were present on magnetic resonance images and CT scans.

Factors Associated With Adverse Radiographic Outcomes Following Operative Management of Ankle Fractures: A Single-Center Study.

Introduction Ankle fractures are commonly encountered fractures in emergency departments worldwide. These fractures often have significant articular involvement that requires anatomic surgical reduction and stabilization. Radiographs can be used in everyday practice to evaluate ankle fractures utilizing various parameters to assess reduction quality intraoperatively and postoperatively. Several factors have been found to influence the reduction quality of fractures across body regions. This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the influence of several factors on the reduction quality of ankle fractures in a tertiary care center in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Materials and methods A total of 462 records were identified during the search, and 68 records were excluded. A total of 394 ankle fractures met the inclusion criteria for the study. Five orthopedic surgeons then evaluated the operative films in accordance with the Delphi consensus parameters for evaluating ankle fractures, and the reductions were graded as good, adequate, or poor. Results The study included 394 ankle fractures that met the inclusion criteria, and four significant associations were noted to affect the quality of reduction. Ankle fractures with posterior malleolus involvement (PMI) were significantly associated (p = 0.001) with fragments smaller than 15% and larger than 20% having decreased outcomes. The number of days from admission to operation was also significant (p = 0.009), with the best reductions observed between zero and one day from admission. Operating surgeon was also a significant factor (p = 0.038), with inferior reductions noted in specialist surgeons compared to trainees. The last significant association was the number of malleoli (p = 0.001), with an inferior reduction with a larger number of malleoli involved. Conclusion Ankle fractures are a common and significant orthopedic injury. Reduction quality is important for optimal outcomes after surgical stabilization. Various factors including the number of malleoli, the grade of the operating surgeon, and the time of surgery were significantly related to the quality reduction in this single-center study. Expedited surgical management of fractures that are amenable to early fixation, careful assessment, and meticulous technique in fixation of fractures with multiple fractured malleoli is indicated to reduce the chance of malreduction particularly in complex injuries. Further assessment of factors related to reduction quality with large-scale prospective studies would provide orthopedic surgeons with insights into the identification and optimal treatment of such fractures.

[Translated article] Fractures of the peroneal malleolus: Current concepts.

Ankle fractures represent up to 9% of all fractures, with an increased incidence in the elderly population. Among these fractures, isolated fractures of the lateral malleolus are the most common, representing 65-70% of all cases. The therapeutic decision-making primarily relies on the stability of the ankle ring, considering it stable if affected at one point and unstable if two or more points are affected. Surgical treatment focuses on restoring the length of the fibula, joint reconstruction, stabilising the syndesmosis, and providing a stable fixation. It is crucial to rule out associated injuries that may influence therapeutic management. This article reviews the evaluation and management of lateral malleolus fractures, proposes a decision-making algorithm, and examines several fibular fixation options.

Dislocations deteriorate postoperative functional outcomes in supination-external rotation ankle fractures.

PURPOSE: To assess the relationship between dislocation and functional outcomes in supination-external rotation (SER) ankle fractures. METHODS: A retrospective case series study was performed on patients with ankle fractures treated surgically at a large trauma center from January 2015 to December 2021. The inclusion criteria were young and middle-aged patients of 18-65 years with SER ankle fractures that can be classified by Lauge-Hansen classification and underwent surgery at our trauma center. Exclusion criteria were serious life-threatening diseases, open fractures, fractures delayed for more than 3 weeks, fracture sites ≥2, etc. Then patients were divided into dislocation and no-dislocation groups. Patient demographics, injury characteristics, surgery-related outcomes, and postoperative functional outcomes were collected and analyzed. The functional outcomes of SER ankle fractures were assessed postoperatively at 1-year face-to-face follow-up using the foot and ankle outcome score (FAOS) and American orthopedic foot and ankle society score and by 2 experienced orthopedic physicians. Relevant data were analyzed using SPSS version 22.0 by Chi-square or t-test. RESULTS: During the study period, there were 371 ankle fractures. Among them, 190 (51.2%) were SER patterns with 69 (36.3%) combined with dislocations. Compared with the no-dislocation group, the dislocation group showed no statistically significant differences in gender, age composition, fracture type, preoperative complications with diabetes, smoking history, preoperative waiting time, operation time, and length of hospital stay (all p > 0.05), but a significantly higher Lauge-Hansen injury grade (p < 0.001) and syndesmotic screw fixation rate (p = 0.033). Moreover, the functional recovery was poorer, revealing a significantly lower FAOS in the sport/rec scale (p < 0.001). Subgroup analysis showed that among SER IV ankle fracture patients, FAOS was much lower in pain (p = 0.042) and sport/rec scales (p < 0.001) for those with dislocations. American orthopedic foot and ankle society score revealed no significant difference between dislocation and no-dislocation patients. CONCLUSION: Dislocation in SER ankle fractures suggests more severe injury and negatively affects functional recovery, mainly manifested as more pain and poorer motor function, especially in SER IV ankle cases.

Comparison between anterior-to-posterior screw fixation versus posterolateral approach plate fixation for posterior malleous fracture: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: There are two main surgical fixation methods for the posterior malleolar fractures (PMFs), the anterior-to-posterior (AP) screws or via the posterolateral (PL) approach utilizing a buttress plate. This review aims to compare the clinical outcome between the AP screw fixation and the PL plate fixation for treating PMFs. METHODS: We searched all relevant publications about PMFs treated with AP screws or PL plates through electronic databases including the PubMed, the Cochrane Library, the Embase, the Wiley online library and the Web of Science. The meta-analysis was conducted to evaluated clinical outcomes including reduction quality, post-operative function and complications. RESULTS: Six studies (one single randomized controlled trial and five retrospective cohort studies) were enrolled. 172 patients underwent AP screw fixation and 214 patients underwent PL plate fixation with a total of 386 patients (169 males and 217 females). The PL plating group yielded better AOFAS scores(MD = 6.97, 95 % CI=[4.68, 9.27], P＜0.00001, I2 =0 %) and was more likely to achieve excellent anatomical reduction(OR=5.49, 95 % CI=[1.06, 28.42], P = 0.04, I2 =80 %). No differences were found in the bad reduction quality, incidences of complications (arthritis, neuralgia, superficial wound healing problems and implant failure), the walking VAS scores and the dorsiflexion restriction degrees. CONCLUSION: We suggest that the PL plate fixation method has the clinical benefit of achieving anatomical reduction and better AOFAS scores over the AP screw fixation for treating PMFs. No differences were found in the incidences of complications ( arthritis, neuralgia, superficial wound healing problems and implant failure), the walking VAS scores and the dorsiflexion restriction degrees. The posterior approach and the direct reduction are recommended for the treatment of the PMFs. LEVEL OF CONFIDENCE: Ⅱb.

Comparing immediate and delayed weight bearing in patients with ankle open reduction internal fixation-A protocol for feasibility randomised controlled trial.

Introduction: Uncertainty regarding the timing of weight bearing following ankle open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) in patients with different ankle fracture patterns remains. Traditional rehabilitation methods, including six weeks of non-weight bearing (NWB), is still a common approach in many hospitals, while some previous evidence has shown immediate weight bearing (IWB) to be beneficial. Method: 32 adult participants with unimalleolar, bimalleolar or trimalleolar ankle fractures and stable fixation following ankle ORIF will be randomly allocated to either Immediate Weight Bearing (IWB) or Delayed Weight Bearing (DWB) groups. Stability of fixation is a subjective assessment made by the operating surgeon at the completion of fixation and is independent of fracture pattern. Participants in the IWB group will be allowed to weight bear as tolerated within 24 h, while participants in the DWB group will remain non-weight bearing for six weeks. Participants' data including Olerud and Molander Ankle Score, Self-Reported Foot and Ankle Score, SF-36 health survey, time to return to work will be collected. X-rays will be assessed by orthopaedic team members for fixation-related complications including reduction loss, malreduction/malunion, implant failure and non-union. Participants data will be collected at six weeks, three and six-months post-surgery. We will determine the feasibility of a full RCT through assessing the recruitment rate, adherence rate, and drop-out rate. Results: Not applicable.This pilot RCT will endeavour to optimise standard rehabilitation protocols post ankle ORIF.

Clinical, functional and radiological outcome after osteosynthesis of ankle fractures using a specific provocation test.

BACKGROUND: Ankle fractures are frequent, and despite numerous publications on their treatment and outcome, there is a lack of precise data on the functional results in young, healthy and physically active patients. We hypothesized that patients who underwent open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) for simple ankle fractures would have similar function compared to a healthy control group, whereas patients with complex fractures will have significant functional deficits. Furthermore, we postulate that there is a discrepancy between the radiological and the functional outcomes. METHODS: A set of specific provocation tests was developed to evaluate the postoperative possibility of weight bearing, stop-and-go activities and range of motion. In combination with three questionnaires and a radiographic evaluation, the true functional outcome and the possibility of participating in sporting activities were investigated and compared with those of an age- and sex-matched control group. RESULTS: A significant impairment was found in unilateral and simple ankle fractures. This impairment increased in tests including stop-and-go activities in combination with load bearing and with the complexity of the fractures. Concerning the subjective outcome, there was a significant adverse effect for daily activities without any difference in preoperative or postoperative sporting activity between the groups. No difference was found in the radiological assessment. CONCLUSIONS: Both simple and complex ankle fractures treated with ORIF have a significant and long-lasting impact on functional outcome in young and active patients. The radiological result is not associated with a good functional outcome. TRIAL REGISTRATION: BASEC-Nr. 2018 - 01124.

Fractures of the peroneal malleolus: Current concepts. / Fracturas del maléolo peroneo: conceptos actuales.

Ankle fractures represent up to 9% of all fractures, with an increased incidence in the elderly population. Among these fractures, isolated fractures of the lateral malleolus are the most common, representing 65-70% of all cases. The therapeutic decision-making primarily relies on the stability of the ankle ring, considering it stable if affected at one point and unstable if two or more points are affected. Surgical treatment focuses on restoring the length of the fibula, joint reconstruction, stabilizing the syndesmosis, and providing a stable fixation. It is crucial to rule out associated injuries that may influence therapeutic management. This article reviews the evaluation and management of lateral malleolus fractures, proposes a decision-making algorithm, and examines several fibular fixation options.

The outcomes of the management of complex distal tibia and ankle fractures in elderly with tibiotalocalcaneal nail in a minimum 12-month follow-up period.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the clinical outcomes of the use of tibiotalocalcaneal nail for the treatment of complex distal tibia and ankle fractures in elderly people, in a major trauma centre. METHODS: Elderly patients (age > 65) with distal tibia or ankle fractures that underwent stabilization with a tibiotalocalcaneal nail were eligible to participate. Exclusion criteria were patients that died or were lost to follow-up and cases in which the nail was used in a chronic setting, such as malunion and non-union. Main parameters evaluated were fracture union, complications and functional outcomes. The functional outcome was assessed using the Olerud-Molander Ankle Score (OMAS). The minimum follow-up was 12 months. RESULTS: Thirty-two consecutive patients (12 males) with a mean age of 80.2 years (range 66-98) met the inclusion criteria and formed the basis of this study. Fracture union was achieved in 93.8% of the cases at a mean time of 3.9 months (range 2-8). Two patients developed surgical site infections and underwent reoperation before union. The overall complication rate was 25.1%, while the respective reintervention rate was 18.8%. In terms of functional outcomes, the mean OMAS score was 45, ranging from 20 to 70. CONCLUSION: Tibiotalocalcaneal nailing can be considered as an acceptable less invasive option with good functional outcomes for the treatment of complex distal tibia and ankle fractures in frail patients with problematic local soft tissues.

Ankle fracture surgery performed by orthopaedic residents without supervision has comparable outcomes to surgery performed by fellowship trained orthopaedic surgeons.

BACKGROUND: Unstable fractures often necessitate open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), which generally yield favourable outcomes. However, the impact of surgical trainee autonomy on healthcare quality in these procedures remains uncertain. We hypothesized that surgery performed solely by residents, without supervision or participation of an attending surgeon, can provide similar outcomes to surgery performed by trauma or foot and ankle fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeons. METHODS: A single-center cohort of an academic level-1 trauma center was retrospectively reviewed for all ankle ORIF between 2015 and 2019. Data were compared between surgery performed solely by post-graduate-year 4 to 6 residents, and surgery performed by trauma or foot and ankle fellowship-trained surgeons. Demographics, surgical parameters, preoperative and postoperative radiographs, and primary (mortality, complications, and revision surgery) and secondary outcome variables were collected and analyzed. Univariate analysis was performed to evaluate outcomes. RESULTS: A total of 460 ankle fractures were included in the study. Nonoperative cases and cases operated by senior orthopaedic surgeons who are not trauma or foot and ankle fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeons were excluded. The average follow-up time was 58.4 months (SD ± 12.5). Univariate analysis of outcomes demonstrated no significant difference between residents and attendings in complications and reoperations rate (p = 0.690, p = 0.388). Sub-analysis by fracture pattern (Lauge-Hansen classification) and the number of malleoli involved and fixated demonstrated similar outcomes. surgery time was significantly longer in the resident group (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The current study demonstrates that ankle fracture surgery can be performed by trained orthopaedic surgery residents, with similar results and complication rates as surgery performed by fellowship-trained attendings. These findings provide valuable insights into surgical autonomy in residency and its role in modern clinical training and surgical education. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III - retrospective cohort study.

Arthroscopic management of pediatric ankle fractures: a systematic review.

Background: Arthroscopic-assisted treatment of ankle fractures has proven useful in the adult population, but little evidence exists for the utilization of arthroscopic-assisted ankle fracture fixation in the pediatric population. The purpose of this systematic review is to examine the management of pediatric ankle fractures using arthroscopy. Methods: A systematic review was performed using PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL, and MEDLINE from database inception to February 22nd, 2023. Inclusion criteria for this systematic review was pediatric population less than age 18, arthroscopic surgery management, and ankle fracture. Results: A total of 19 articles (n=30 patients) out of 176 articles met final inclusion criteria with all articles consisting of case reports or case series. The average patient age was 13.8±1.6 years. Sixteen of the patients (53%) had arthroscopic surgery along with an adjunct surgery as indicated, whereas 14 patients (47%) had arthroscopic surgery with or without percutaneous fixation. A high majority of patients demonstrated full range-of-motion and large improvements in function. Conclusions: Arthroscopy is used with percutaneous fixation or in adjunct to open approaches for pediatric ankle fracture management with good results. More research is needed to determine the utility of arthroscopy in the management of pediatric ankle fractures.

Efficacy of post-operative X-rays after operatively treated ankle fractures: What is their role?

OBJECTIVE: The utility of routine post-operative imaging in clinically asymptomatic patients is unclear. We sought to determine how frequently X-rays following operatively treated ankle fractures result in a change in management. DESIGN: Retrospective cohort study conducted with hospital electronic health record SETTING: Single level 1 trauma center in major urban city. PATIENTS/PARTICIPANTS: 193 patients with operatively treated ankle fractures at our institution between January 2020 and December 2021. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Patient radiographs were categorized as surveillance X-rays and clinically indicated X-rays. Changes in management were defined as alteration in follow-up, deviation from standard post-operative protocols, or revision surgery. A logistic regression was performed looking at factors predicting whether an X-ray changes management. A cost analysis was also performed looking at the financial implications of asymptomatic surveillance of ankle fractures. RESULTS: 438 post-operative X-rays were found and included in analysis. Of these, 391 were considered surveillance X-rays and 47 clinically indicated. 23 X-rays were determined to have resulted in changes in management (18 clinically indicated, 5 taken in asymptomatic patients). The number of management changing X-rays was significantly higher in the clinically indicated group (p < 0.0001). The only factor associated with whether an X-ray changed management was whether the patient was symptomatic at the visit (p < 0.0001). Asymptomatic surveillance X-rays cost our institution 21,825.62 USD per year. CONCLUSIONS: Radiographs in clinically asymptomatic patients with operatively managed ankle fractures have a low likelihood of changing management. Such imaging represents costs to the healthcare system, increased time for patients during clinic visits, and radiation exposure. The use of screening radiographic studies remains commonplace because the risk of delayed diagnosis is great, and the goal of any surgeon should be the swift identification of complications in order to minimize patient morbidity. Future surveillance protocols should consider the findings of this and other studies on the use of screening radiographs and strike a careful balance between minimizing unnecessary imaging, maximizing early complication detection, and ensuring a personalized approach towards patient-level factors to optimize care and efficiency for both patient and health system. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.

Evaluating Fibular Intramedullary Nails vs Traditional Plating in Geriatric Ankle Fractures: A 12-Year Single-Center Retrospective Study.

BACKGROUND: This study evaluates the outcomes of fibular intramedullary nails (IMNs) compared to traditional plates and screws (PS) in the surgical treatment of unstable ankle injuries in patients aged ≥65 years. METHOD: We conducted a retrospective study involving 32 elderly patients with unstable ankle fractures treated with IMNs from 2010 to 2022. A comparison was made with 125 case-control patients treated with PS during the same period. Outcomes compared included postoperative wound and nonwound complications, surgical reduction, union rates, implant removal rates, and the Olerud Molander Ankle Score (OMAS) at a minimum follow-up of 2 years. RESULTS: The IMN group had a higher incidence of high-energy injuries, open fractures, concomitant surgery, and perioperative transfusion requirements than the PS group. Additionally, the IMN group developed fewer wound-related (3.1% vs 20% in the PS group, P = .043) and non-wound-related complications (18.8% vs 39.2% in the PS group, P = .030). Both groups had similar initial weightbearing restrictions, fracture union times, mean OMAS scores, rates of malunion or nonunion, and delayed implant removal times. Notably, there were significant differences in the quality and adequacy of mortise alignment between the groups (good: 53.1% in IMN group vs 79.2% in PS group, fair: 46.9% in IMN group vs 20.8% in PS group, P = .006). CONCLUSION: Although the IMN group had an inferior outcome in the quality and adequacy of mortise reduction compared with the PS group, elderly patients with ankle fractures treated with IMN showed comparable functional outcomes to those treated with PS but with lower complication rates. Future research in this area will provide vital information for developing optimal treatment strategies, thereby improving the overall care of elderly patients with ankle fractures. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, case-control study.