The effect of massage on the plantar flexor muscles during the fixation period in postoperative patients with an ankle fracture.

INTRODUCTION: Ankle fractures are one of the most common lower extremity fractures. After surgery, the ankle joint is often immobilized in a plantar flexion position, and there have been many reported cases of limited ankle joint range of motion. Therefore, the purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of regular massage interventions on ankle joint range of motion after removal of fixation. METHODS: The massage group comprised 30 patients who had sustained an ankle fracture and had undergone surgical fixation, physical therapy, and massage between November 2020 and March 2022. These subjects received a 3-min massage twice daily, five times a week. The control group consisted of 38 patients who had sustained an ankle fracture between January 2015 and September 2020 and had undergone surgical fixation as well as regular physical therapy. RESULTS: The respective ankle dorsiflexion and plantarflexion ranges of motion after cast removal were 2.50 ± 7.2° and 42.3 ± 7.2° in the massage group and -8.62 ± 2.9° and 34.8 ± 8.3° in the control group. An unpaired t-test showed that the ankle dorsiflexion and plantarflexion ranges of motion in the massage group were significantly greater than those in the control group (p = 0.036 and p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Our results indicate that regular 3-min massage interventions of the plantar flexors could prevent the progression of a range of motion limitations in postoperative patients with an ankle fracture more effectively than regular physical therapy alone.

Operative vs Nonoperative Management of Unstable Medial Malleolus Fractures: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

Importance: Unstable ankle fractures are routinely managed operatively. However, because of soft tissue and implant-related complications, recent literature has reported on the nonoperative management of well-reduced medial malleolus fractures after fibular stabilization, but with limited evidence supporting the routine application. Objective: To assess the superiority of internal fixation of well-reduced (displacement ≤2 mm) medial malleolus fractures compared with nonfixation after fibular stabilization. Design, Setting, and Participants: This superiority, pragmatic, parallel, prospective randomized clinical trial was conducted from October 1, 2017, to August 31, 2021. A total of 154 adult participants (≥16 years) with a closed, unstable bimalleolar or trimalleolar ankle fracture requiring surgery at an academic major trauma center in the UK were assessed. Exclusion criteria included injuries with no medial-sided fracture, open fractures, neurovascular injury, and the inability to comply with follow-up. Data analysis was performed in July 2022 and confirmed in September 2023. Interventions: Once the lateral (and where appropriate, posterior) malleolus had been fixed and satisfactory intraoperative reduction of the medial malleolus fracture was confirmed by the operating surgeon, participants were randomly allocated to fixation (n = 78) or nonfixation (n = 76) of the medial malleolus. Main Outcome and Measure: Olerud-Molander Ankle Score (OMAS) 1 year after randomization (range, 0-100 points, with 0 indicating worst possible outcome and 100 indicating best possible outcome). Results: Among 154 randomized participants (mean [SD] age, 56.5 [16.7] years; 119 [77%] female), 144 (94%) completed the trial. At 1 year, the median OMAS was 80.0 (IQR, 60.0-90.0) in the fixation group compared with 72.5 (IQR, 55.0-90.0) in the nonfixation group (P = .17). Complication rates were comparable. Significantly more patients in the nonfixation group developed a radiographic nonunion (20% vs 0%; P < .001), with 8 of 13 clinically asymptomatic; 1 patient required surgical reintervention for this. Fracture type and reduction quality appeared to influence fracture union and patient outcome. Conclusions and Relevance: In this randomized clinical trial comparing internal fixation of well-reduced medial malleolus fractures with nonfixation, after fibular stabilization, fixation was not superior according to the primary outcome. However, 1 in 5 patients developed a radiographic nonunion after nonfixation, and although the reintervention rate to manage this was low, the future implications are unknown. These results support selective nonfixation of anatomically reduced medial malleolar fractures after fibular stabilization. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03362229.

Prospective randomized controlled trial: early weight bearing after conservative treatment of Weber B ankle fractures (pancake trial).

PURPOSE: Different studies have shown that weightbearing is safe in stable transsyndesmotic, isolated lateral simple ankle fractures. Despite this evidence, AO guidelines still recommend immobilization with above-the-knee cast for 4-6 weeks for these fractures. The objective of this study was to compare the outcomes of mobilization and weightbearing to those of immobilization and non-weightbearing in patients with stable transsyndesmotic, lateral isolated simple ankle fractures. METHODS: Fifty patients were randomly assigned to permissive weightbearing in a walking boot or non-weightbearing immobilization using a below-the-knee cast. Primary outcome was ankle functionality as scored by the Olerud-Molander Ankle Score (OMAS). Secondary outcomes were radiological displacement of fracture, range of motion (ROM), calf circumference, and RAND 36-item health survey. Patients were in follow-up for 24 months. RESULTS: Ankle functionality after six and twelve weeks was significantly higher for the intervention group, with respectively 30 points (p = 0.001) and 10 points (p = 0.015) of difference. ROM improved significantly in the intervention group after six weeks. All fractures showed radiological progression of fracture healing. RAND 36-item showed differences in both physical (60.3 vs. 46.3, p = 0.017) and mental (78.5 vs. 58.2, p = 0.034) components in favor of the intervention group. In 16% of patients who initially showed stable fractures on radiographic imaging, joint dislocation was identified on weightbearing radiographs prior to randomization, leading to exclusion. CONCLUSION: Weightbearing and mobilization using a walking boot may be a safe treatment for patients with stable Weber B fractures.

Successful Outcomes With Nonoperative Treatment and Immediate Weightbearing Despite Stress-Positive Radiographs in Isolated Distal Fibula (OTA/AO 44B) Fractures.

OBJECTIVES: To determine whether a nonoperative management protocol results in equivalent outcomes in isolated OTA/AO 44B (Weber B) fractures without initial medial clear space (MCS) widening regardless of stress radiography findings. DESIGN: Prospective cohort. SETTING: Level 1 academic trauma center. PATIENT SELECTION CRITERIA: Nonoperatively managed patients with isolated OTA/AO 44B fractures and MCS ≤4 mm on initial non-weightbearing injury radiographs between from January 2018 and January 2022 were included. All patients underwent emergency department gravity stress radiographs and those with widening were considered the widening cohort and those without the non-widening cohort. OUTCOME MEASURE AND COMPARISONS: MCS measurements on weightbearing radiographs were obtained at first follow-up, 6 weeks, 12 weeks, and 6 months postinjury, were considered indicative of instability if >4 mm and were compared between cohorts.; American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society ankle-hindfoot scores were also compared between cohorts. RESULTS: Sixty-nine patients were studied. None of the 38 patients (55%) with widening on gravity stress radiographs demonstrated widening with weightbearing radiographs at any time point. Mean MCS measurement differences between the 2 cohorts were statistically significant for all time points ( P = 0.012); however, with a model adjusted mean MCS value of 2.7 mm for the nonwidening cohort and 2.9 mm for the widening cohort, these are not clinically significant. There was no statistically significant difference in overall final American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society scores between the 2 groups ( P = 0.451). In addition, statistical equivalence using Schuirmann 2 one-sided tests was achieved between the 2 groups. Both cohorts had mean American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society scores representing excellent outcomes at the final follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with isolated OTA/AO 44B fractures without MCS widening on initial injury radiographs did not demonstrate instability on subsequent weightbearing radiographs and had equivalent outcomes regardless of gravity stress radiography findings when treated nonoperatively. Weightbearing radiographs at the initial follow-up appear to be a reliable assessment of ankle stability in these injuries and are an appropriate alternative to painful and time-consuming stress radiography. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Information needs and preferences of patients with an ankle fracture: User involvement study creating an mHealth solution.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to employ a user-driven participatory design (PD) approach to develop an mHealth solution that addresses patients' information needs after surgical or non-surgical treatment for an ankle fracture. METHODS: Patients with an ankle fracture and health care professionals along the treatment pathway in both the hospital and municipality participated in four workshops (WS). RESULTS: We found that patients with an ankle fracture need information on topics such as "a typical course," "bandages and assistive devices," "what can I feel," "what may I do," "what to usually worry about," "medicine," "tips and tricks," and "contact information." Moreover, patients requested diverse modes of dissemination, preferably a combination of text, timelines, pictures, animations, and videos. Alpha and beta testing of the digital platform was conducted, and content-related improvements were made. A readability analysis showed reading ease of 40.1 of 100, meaning that it should be easily understood by 15-16 year-olds. CONCLUSION: Involving representatives of future users in creating this mHealth solution using PD demonstrates the benefits of creating a solution that aligns with users' needs. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: The mHealth solution is now ready for implementation and large-scale evaluation in phase three of the overall PD study. An mHealth usability questionnaire will be employed to assess usability by future patients with surgically or non-surgically treated ankle fractures.

Concomitant Unstable and Stable Gravity Stress Tests on Weight-Bearing Stable Weber B Ankle Fractures Treated Nonoperatively: A 2-Year Outcome Study.

BACKGROUND: Replacing gravity stress tests with weight-bearing radiographs to evaluate the stability of Weber B (also called Lauge-Hansen supination-external rotation [SER]) ankle fractures results in a lower surgery rate, thus avoiding associated risks and complications. Still, nonoperative treatment of weight-bearing stable fractures is controversial because of the scarcity of strong evidence. We investigated the influence of a concomitant unstable gravity stress test compared with a stable gravity stress test on outcomes after nonoperative treatment of weight-bearing stable fractures. METHODS: We performed a prospective, noninferiority study on 149 patients with Weber B ankle fractures and stable weight-bearing radiographs. Gravity stress radiographs classified fractures as stable (SER2 [n = 88]) or partially unstable (SER4a [n = 61]). All were treated with a functional orthosis and weight-bearing was allowed; patients were followed for 2 years. The primary outcome was the Manchester-Oxford Foot and Ankle Questionnaire (MOXFQ), with a range from 0 to 100, in which lower scores indicate fewer symptoms. A noninferiority margin was prospectively defined as 7.5 points. The secondary outcomes included the Olerud-Molander Ankle Score, assessment of ankle congruence, and treatment-related adverse events. RESULTS: The primary outcome data were available for 144 (96.6%) of 149 participants at 2 years. The between-group difference in the MOXFQ score was 1.0 point (95% confidence interval, -1.4 to 3.4 points; p = 0.397) in favor of the SER2 group, consistent with noninferiority. We found no appreciable between-group differences for any other outcome. CONCLUSIONS: In Weber B/SER ankle fractures that are stable on weight-bearing radiographs, are treated with removable orthoses, and are allowed to bear weight, a concomitant unstable gravity stress test (SER4a) was not associated with worse patient-reported or radiographic outcomes compared with a stable gravity stress test (SER2) at the 2-year follow-up. Thus, the identification of stress instability seems redundant, which questions the applicability of stress instability for surgical decision-making. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Diagnostic Level II . See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Urgent Care Versus Emergency Department Utilization for Foot and Ankle Fractures.

INTRODUCTION: Foot and ankle fractures are common injuries for which patients may need urgent evaluation and care. Many such injuries are managed in emergency departments (EDs), but urgent care facilities may sometimes be an appropriate setting. Understanding which foot and ankle fractures are managed at which facility might help define care algorithms, improve patient experience, and suggest directions for containing costs. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study used the 2010 to 2020 M151 PearlDiver administrative database. Adult patients less than 65 years old presenting to EDs and urgent care facilities for foot and ankle fractures were identified using ICD-9 and ICD-10 diagnosis codes, excluding polytrauma, and Medicare patients. Patient/injury variables associated with urgent care utilization relative to ED utilization and utilization trends of urgent care relative to ED were assessed with univariable and multivariable analyses. RESULTS: From 2010 to 2020, 1,120,422 patients with isolated foot and ankle fractures presented to EDs and urgent care facilities. Urgent care visits evolved from 2.2% in 2010 to 4.4% in 2020 (P , 0.0001). Independent predictors of urgent care relative to ED utilization were defined. In decreasing odds ratios (ORs), these were insurance (relative to Medicaid, commercial OR 8.03), geographic region (relative to Midwest, Northeast OR 3.55, South OR 1.74, West OR 1.06), anatomic location of fracture (relative to ankle, forefoot OR 3.45, midfoot 2.20, hindfoot 1.63), closed fracture (OR 2.20), female sex (OR 1.29), lower ECI (OR 1.11 per unit decrease), and younger age (OR 1.08 per decade decrease) (P , 0.0001 for all). DISCUSSION: A small but increasing minority of patients with foot and ankle fractures are managed in urgent care facilities relative to EDs. While patients with certain injury types were associated with increased odds of urgent care relative to ED utilization, the greatest predictors were nonclinical, such as geographic regions and insurance type, suggesting areas for optimizing access to certain care pathways. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.

Conservative Management of Transitional Ankle Fractures in Adolescents: A Pilot Study to Determine Whether Type of Immobilization Affects Outcome.

Intra-articular Tillaux and triplane ankle fractures are treated surgically when displaced. Minimally displaced fractures are treated with immobilization alone. Long leg casts (LLCs) are the most traditional method of immobilization because they can prevent weight bearing by flexing the knee and control ankle rotation. However, they also are heavy, decrease mobility, increase the area for contact dermatitis, and increase knee stiffness. Short leg casts (SLCs) may be adequate for these injuries. This study compared outcomes of adolescents with transitional ankle fractures treated in LLCs vs SLCs. All transitional ankle fractures treated with immobilization during 11 years at a multicenter children's health system were reviewed. Patients were grouped based on initial treatment with LLC vs SLC. Cases were analyzed for differences in demographics, length of treatment, weight-bearing status, outcomes, and complications. A total of 159 patients met inclusion criteria. Sixty-five were treated initially with LLCs and 94 were treated initially with SLCs, with no significant age difference between the groups. Computed tomography scans had been obtained for 55.4% of the patients with LLCs vs 29.8% of the patients with SLCs. Mean time in the initial cast was 24 days for both groups. Mean total time in any cast was 40 days for the LLC group vs 29 days for the SLC group. Mean time to weight bearing was 7 days shorter and return to full activity was 12 days shorter in the SLC group. There were no cases of fracture displacement, malunion, nonunion, or functional limitations. [Orthopedics. 2023;46(4):230-233.].

Cast versus removable orthosis for the management of stable type B ankle fractures: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: There is currently no consensus on nonoperative management in adult patients after a stable type B ankle fracture. The aim of this review is to compare a removable orthosis versus a cast regarding safety and functional outcome in the NOM of stable type B ankle fractures. METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed using randomized clinical trials and observational studies. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed with the methodological index for non-randomized studies instrument. Nonoperative management was compared using the number of complications and functional outcome measured using the Olerud and Molander Score (OMAS) or the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Ankle Score. RESULTS: Five studies were included. Two were randomized clinical trials, and three were observational studies, including a total of 516 patients. A meta-analysis showed statistically significant higher odds of developing complications in the cast group [odds ratio (OR), 4.67 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.52-14.35)]. Functional outcome in OMAS did not vary significantly at 6 weeks, mean difference (MD) - 6.64 (95% CI - 13.72 to + 0.45), and at 12 weeks, MD - 6.91 (95% CI - 18.73 to + 4.91). The mean difference of functional outcome in OMAS at 26 weeks or longer was significantly better in the removable orthosis group; MD - 2.63 (95% CI - 5.01 to - 0.25). CONCLUSION: Results of this systematic review and meta-analysis show that a removable orthosis is a safe alternative type of NOM, as complication numbers are significantly lower in the orthosis group. In addition, no statistically significant differences were found in terms of functional outcome between a removable orthosis and a cast at 6 and 12 weeks. The 6-week and the 26-week OMAS results show that in patients with stable type B ankle fractures, a removable orthosis is non-inferior to a cast in terms of functional outcome.

Midterm Follow-up of a Novel Algorithm for Nonoperative Weber B Ankle Fractures.

BACKGROUND: Stable Weber B ankle fractures are routinely treated nonoperatively. Our group previously presented a novel algorithm that provides radiographic parameters guiding when Weber B ankle fractures can be treated nonoperatively.2 The purpose of this study is to evaluate the durability of those results with a minimum 5-year follow-up. METHODS: All 51 patients who were included in the initial study were contacted by telephone and asked to return to clinic for repeat evaluation where American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot, Olerud-Molander Ankle (OMA), and visual analog scale (VAS) scores were collected. Bilateral standing ankle radiographs were obtained and evaluated using the Kellgren-Lawrence grading scale for ankle arthritis. RESULTS: Twenty-nine of 51 patients (56%) participated in this follow-up study with a mean follow-up of 6.8 (range 5.6-8) years. Average functional score results were as follows: AOFAS, 98.43; OMA score, 94.11; and VAS, 0.46. AOFAS scores improved by an average of 5 points between 1 year and 5 years (P = .002); OMA and VAS scores were stable. All patients achieved union of their fracture on follow-up radiographs. CONCLUSION: Our findings demonstrate the durability of the previous study results conducted by Holmes et al,2 and support that appropriately selected patients can be treated nonoperatively using the study's novel algorithm. This reinforces our theory that medial clear space widening on weightbearing radiographs up to 7 mm should be considered for nonoperative management. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, case series.

Predicting factors for better outcomes of stable supination external rotation type 2 ankle fractures.

PURPOSE: Stable Weber B ankle fractures are treated by a walking boot for 6 weeks and bearing full weight through the boot as tolerated. The aim of the present study was to assess the outcome parameters of this treatment protocol, evaluate the efficacy of using the walking boot, and investigate any possible predicting factors that could affect the outcomes. METHODS: All the patients with stable Weber B ankle fractures, treated in our hospital between January 2018 and December 2018, were prospectively included to the study. The patients were evaluated clinically, and the patient-reported outcome measures data were collected at the 2 and 6 weeks post-injury. Chi square, Spearman's rho test, independent samples and paired sample t-tests were used for the monovariant analysis. RESULTS: A total of 128 consecutive patients (aged 52.2 ± 19.1 years) with supination external rotation type 2 fracture were finally included to the study. At the 2 weeks follow-up, the reported outcome measures scores were in moderate levels, but improved significantly at the 6 weeks follow-up (p < 0.0001). Multivariant analysis revealed that the ability to bear full weight without the boot at the 2 weeks after diagnosis was the only variable, which made statistically unique contribution to the foot and ankle disability index score at the 6 weeks (p = 0.005). CONCLUSION: Conservative treatment using a walking boot with advice to bear full weight of stable ankle Weber B fractures can bring to good functional outcomes. The ability to bear full weight without the aid of the walking boot at 2 weeks after diagnosis was the only significant predicting factor for better outcomes at 6 weeks after diagnosis.

Uso de las reglas de Ottawa para medio pie y tobillo en un hospital de referencia en Perú / Use of Ottawa ankle rules in a referral hospital in Peru Perú

Objetivo: Evaluar la validez y seguridad de las reglas de Ottawa para medio pie y tobillo (ROmPT) en el servicio de urgencias de un hospital de referencia en Perú. Materiales y métodos: El estudio fue observacional, transversal con duración de 5 meses (de febrero a junio de 2016). La población fueron los pacientes mayores de 18 años con un traumatismo de pie y/o tobillo que acudieron al servicio de urgencias. Se realizó un muestreo no aleatorizado por conveniencia. Se aplicaron las ROmPT y se realizaron rayos X de pie y/o tobillo a los pacientes que cumplieron los criterios de inclusión y exclusión. Los datos fueron tabulados y analizados con el programa SPSS v. 20.0. Se calcularon medidas de validez diagnóstica (sensibilidad, especificidad), seguridad diagnóstica (valor predictivo positivo, valor predictivo negativo) y likelihood ratio positiva y negativa. Resultados: Se evaluaron 428 pacientes. El uso de las ROmPT obtuvo una sensibilidad del 97,2%, una especificidad del 30,3%, un valor predictivo positivo del 22,0%, un valor predictivo negativo del 98,2%, una likelihood ratio positiva de 1,39 y negativa de 0,09. Con la aplicación de las ROmPT, se evidenció una reducción del 31,2% del total de rayos X, que pudo generar un ahorro de 1.165$. Conclusiones: Se concluye que la validez y seguridad de las ROmPT en nuestro medio son comparables a las de estudios internacionales, con una posible reducción del uso de rayos X. Son necesarios estudios multicéntricos, con mayor tiempo de duración y cantidad de pacientes, para protocolizar el uso de este método en servicios de urgencias.(AU)

Objective: The aim of the study was to evaluate the validity and safety of Ottawa's ankle rules (OAR) in the urgency department of referral hospital in Peru. Materials and methods: An observational-transversal study was conducted for a duration of 5 months (April-June 2016). Target population were all patients older than 18 years with a foot and ankle injury who came to the urgency department. A convenience non-randomized sampling was used. The OAR test was applied and X-rays of the foot and/or ankle were performed in all patients who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The data obtained was analyzed using the SPSS 20.0 software. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and likelihood ratio positive and negative were calculated from statistical analysis. Results: A total of 428 patients were evaluated. The OAR test's sensitivity was 97.2%, specificity was 30.3%, positive predictive value was 22.0%, negative predictive value was 98.2%, likelihood ratio positive and negative were 1.39 and 0.09, respectively. With the application of the OAR test, a reduction of 31.2% of the total X-rays was evidenced, which could generate a saving of US $1165. Conclusions: In conclusion, OAR's validity and safety in our environment are comparable to international data, with a reduction in the unnecessary use of radiographs. Multicentric studies involving a larger sample and longer study time are necessary to protocolize OAR in emergency units.(AU)

Use of Ottawa ankle rules in a referral hospital in Peru / Uso de las reglas de Ottawa para medio pie y tobillo en un hospital de referencia en Perú

Objetivo: Evaluar la validez y seguridad de las reglas de Ottawa para medio pie y tobillo (ROmPT) en el servicio de urgencias de un hospital de referencia en Perú. Materiales y métodos: El estudio fue observacional, transversal con duración de 5 meses (de febrero a junio de 2016). La población fueron los pacientes mayores de 18 años con un traumatismo de pie y/o tobillo que acudieron al servicio de urgencias. Se realizó un muestreo no aleatorizado por conveniencia. Se aplicaron las ROmPT y se realizaron rayos X de pie y/o tobillo a los pacientes que cumplieron los criterios de inclusión y exclusión. Los datos fueron tabulados y analizados con el programa SPSS v. 20.0. Se calcularon medidas de validez diagnóstica (sensibilidad, especificidad), seguridad diagnóstica (valor predictivo positivo, valor predictivo negativo) y likelihood ratio positiva y negativa. Resultados: Se evaluaron 428 pacientes. El uso de las ROmPT obtuvo una sensibilidad del 97,2%, una especificidad del 30,3%, un valor predictivo positivo del 22,0%, un valor predictivo negativo del 98,2%, una likelihood ratio positiva de 1,39 y negativa de 0,09. Con la aplicación de las ROmPT, se evidenció una reducción del 31,2% del total de rayos X, que pudo generar un ahorro de 1.165$. Conclusiones: Se concluye que la validez y seguridad de las ROmPT en nuestro medio son comparables a las de estudios internacionales, con una posible reducción del uso de rayos X. Son necesarios estudios multicéntricos, con mayor tiempo de duración y cantidad de pacientes, para protocolizar el uso de este método en servicios de urgencias.(AU)

Objective: The aim of the study was to evaluate the validity and safety of Ottawa's ankle rules (OAR) in the urgency department of referral hospital in Peru. Materials and methods: An observational-transversal study was conducted for a duration of 5 months (April-June 2016). Target population were all patients older than 18 years with a foot and ankle injury who came to the urgency department. A convenience non-randomized sampling was used. The OAR test was applied and X-rays of the foot and/or ankle were performed in all patients who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The data obtained was analyzed using the SPSS 20.0 software. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and likelihood ratio positive and negative were calculated from statistical analysis. Results: A total of 428 patients were evaluated. The OAR test's sensitivity was 97.2%, specificity was 30.3%, positive predictive value was 22.0%, negative predictive value was 98.2%, likelihood ratio positive and negative were 1.39 and 0.09, respectively. With the application of the OAR test, a reduction of 31.2% of the total X-rays was evidenced, which could generate a saving of US $1165. Conclusions: In conclusion, OAR's validity and safety in our environment are comparable to international data, with a reduction in the unnecessary use of radiographs. Multicentric studies involving a larger sample and longer study time are necessary to protocolize OAR in emergency units.(AU)

Documento de posicionamiento respecto a las fracturas de tobillo en cirugía mayor ambulatoria / Position statement relating ankle fractures in major outpatient surgery

Introducción: El aumento de la prevalencia de osteoporosis asociado al envejecimiento y a los accidentes deportivos y de tráfico, son los responsables del incremento de las fracturas de tobillo. Este hecho pone de manifiesto la necesidad de protocolizar su asistencia para proporcionar un mayor beneficio clínico al paciente y una disminución de costes al sistema. Objetivo y métodos: En la actualidad, no existe un marco común para la implantación de protocolos y circuitos internos en los centros españoles para la realización de fracturas de tobillo por la vía de la cirugía mayor ambulatoria (CMA), objetivo que persigue el presente documento de posicionamiento. Para ello se revisa la evidencia clínica y económica de la CMA, el entorno local y las estrategias para su implementación, haciendo referencia a las fracturas de tobillo. Evidencia clínica y económica: Los resultados mostraron una mejor relación coste-beneficio en pacientes ambulatorios respecto a la tradicional hospitalización, con complicaciones y tasas de reingreso menores y, por tanto, ahorro de costes significativos. Barreras y estrategias: Se revisan las barreras generales y específicas, así como las estrategias y los circuitos para la correcta implementación. Resultados: Los resultados muestran una reducción de las tasas de complicaciones y reingresos, así como un ahorro de costes. Supone una mejor relación coste-beneficio en la atención ambulatoria en comparación con la hospitalización tradicional. Posicionamiento: La implantación de la CMA contribuye a mejorar la calidad asistencial, la satisfacción del paciente y del equipo asistencial, así como la optimización de recursos. Las fracturas de tobillo en pacientes seleccionados tanto por la patología de base, riesgo anestésico y tipo de fractura pueden intervenirse de manera satisfactoria en régimen de CMA.(AU)

Introduction: The increase in the prevalence of osteoporosis associated with ageing, and sports and traffic accidents, are responsible for the increase in ankle fractures. This fact emphasises the need to protocolise their care in order to provide greater clinical benefit to patients, and better cost–benefit ratios to the health system. Aim and method: At present, there is no common framework for implementation of protocols and internal circuits of the Spanish centres for ankle fractures by means of major outpatient surgery (MOS), which is the final objective of this position paper. For this, the clinical and economic evidence of MOS, the local environment and the strategies for its implementation are reviewed, related to ankle fractures. Clinical and economic vidence: The results showed a better cost–benefit ratio in outpatients compared to traditional hospitalisation, with lower complications and readmission rates and therefore significant cost savings. Barriers and strategies: General and specific barriers are reviewed, as well as strategies and circuits for proper implementation. Results: The results show lower complication and readmission rates together with significant cost savings. It entails a better cost–benefit ratio in outpatient care compared to traditional hospitalisation. Position statement:The implementation of MOS contributes to improve the quality of care, and the satisfaction of both, patient and health care team, while optimising the utilisation of resources. Ankle fractures in patients selected for both the underlying pathology, anaesthetic risk, and the type of fracture can be operated satisfactorily under the MOS.(AU)

Position statement relating ankle fractures in major outpatient surgery / Documento de posicionamiento respecto a las fracturas de tobillo en cirugía mayor ambulatoria

Introduction: The increase in the prevalence of osteoporosis associated with ageing, and sports and traffic accidents, are responsible for the increase in ankle fractures. This fact emphasises the need to protocolise their care in order to provide greater clinical benefit to patients, and better cost–benefit ratios to the health system. Aim and method: At present, there is no common framework for implementation of protocols and internal circuits of the Spanish centres for ankle fractures by means of major outpatient surgery (MOS), which is the final objective of this position paper. For this, the clinical and economic evidence of MOS, the local environment and the strategies for its implementation are reviewed, related to ankle fractures. Clinical and economic vidence: The results showed a better cost–benefit ratio in outpatients compared to traditional hospitalisation, with lower complications and readmission rates and therefore significant cost savings. Barriers and strategies: General and specific barriers are reviewed, as well as strategies and circuits for proper implementation. Results: The results show lower complication and readmission rates together with significant cost savings. It entails a better cost–benefit ratio in outpatient care compared to traditional hospitalisation. Position statement:The implementation of MOS contributes to improve the quality of care, and the satisfaction of both, patient and health care team, while optimising the utilisation of resources. Ankle fractures in patients selected for both the underlying pathology, anaesthetic risk, and the type of fracture can be operated satisfactorily under the MOS.(AU)

Introducción: El aumento de la prevalencia de osteoporosis asociado al envejecimiento y a los accidentes deportivos y de tráfico, son los responsables del incremento de las fracturas de tobillo. Este hecho pone de manifiesto la necesidad de protocolizar su asistencia para proporcionar un mayor beneficio clínico al paciente y una disminución de costes al sistema. Objetivo y métodos: En la actualidad, no existe un marco común para la implantación de protocolos y circuitos internos en los centros españoles para la realización de fracturas de tobillo por la vía de la cirugía mayor ambulatoria (CMA), objetivo que persigue el presente documento de posicionamiento. Para ello se revisa la evidencia clínica y económica de la CMA, el entorno local y las estrategias para su implementación, haciendo referencia a las fracturas de tobillo. Evidencia clínica y económica: Los resultados mostraron una mejor relación coste-beneficio en pacientes ambulatorios respecto a la tradicional hospitalización, con complicaciones y tasas de reingreso menores y, por tanto, ahorro de costes significativos. Barreras y estrategias: Se revisan las barreras generales y específicas, así como las estrategias y los circuitos para la correcta implementación. Resultados: Los resultados muestran una reducción de las tasas de complicaciones y reingresos, así como un ahorro de costes. Supone una mejor relación coste-beneficio en la atención ambulatoria en comparación con la hospitalización tradicional. Posicionamiento: La implantación de la CMA contribuye a mejorar la calidad asistencial, la satisfacción del paciente y del equipo asistencial, así como la optimización de recursos. Las fracturas de tobillo en pacientes seleccionados tanto por la patología de base, riesgo anestésico y tipo de fractura pueden intervenirse de manera satisfactoria en régimen de CMA.(AU)

Knowledge support for ankle fractures in the Swedish Fracture Register - a qualitative study of physicians' experiences.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study is to investigate the experiences of physicians presented with a knowledge support system while registering data on ankle fractures in the Swedish Fracture Register. The present study aims to answer the following research questions:     â€¢ "How is receiving knowledge support while registering a fracture in the Swedish Fracture Register experienced by the physicians using it?".     â€¢ "Can a feeling of increased usability of a quality register be achieved by providing the user with real-time feedback?". METHODS: A total of 20 physicians using the Swedish Fracture Register were recruited using a purposive sampling strategy. Qualitative content analysis was performed on individual semi-structured interviews performed in May and June 2020. RESULTS: The present study demonstrates that the knowledge support system in the Swedish Fracture Register was perceived by the physicians as strengthening the evidence base and improving the quality of ankle fracture treatment. The knowledge support system was evaluated as a good tool for validating clinical decisions and managing the information that needs to be processed to make informed decisions. CONCLUSIONS: The present study affirms that being provided with knowledge support is appreciated by physicians, increase value for work and enhance the initiative to register. The physicians experienced that the knowledge support provided an appreciated validation of the clinical decisions taken and a feeling of improved care. When incorporating knowledge support into an NQR, consideration must be given to physicians' fears of becoming overly reliant on a template and losing control of the clinical base.

[Optimal after-treatment of ankle fractures still not clear: a cast or a brace?] / Geen duidelijkheid over beste aanpak bij enkelfractuur.

In a recent article in the BMJ an attempt is made to evaluate the difference in effect of after-treatment with a cast or a brace in case of an ankle fracture. Although the research question is important, the heterogeneity of the researched group is too high to get a practical outcome for our daily practice. The article is discussed and comments are given on possible alterations for future analysis of the presented study group.

Opioid Prescribing Risk Factors in Nonoperative Ankle Fractures: The Impact of a Prospective Clinical Decision Support Intervention.

Opioids are frequently used for acute pain management of musculoskeletal injuries, which can lead to misuse and abuse. This study aimed to identify the opioid prescribing rate for ankle fractures treated nonoperatively in the ambulatory and emergency department setting across a single healthcare system and to identify patients considered at high risk for abuse, misuse, or diversion of prescription opioids that received an opioid. A retrospective cohort study was performed at a large healthcare system. The case list included nonoperatively treated emergency department, urgent care and outpatient clinic visits for ankle fracture and was merged with the Prescription Reporting With Immediate Medication Mapping (PRIMUM) database to identify encounters with prescription for opioids. Descriptive statistics characterize patient demographics, treatment location and prescriber type. Rates of prescribing among subgroups were calculated. There were 1,324 patient encounters identified, of which, 630 (47.6%) received a prescription opioid. The majority of patients were 18-64 years old (60.3%). Patients within this age range were more likely to receive an opioid prescription compared to other age groups (p < .0001). Patients treated in the emergency department were significantly more likely to receive an opioid medication (68.3%) compared to patients treated at urgent care (33.7%) or in the ambulatory setting (16.4%) (p < .0001). Utilizing the PRIMUM tool, 14.2% of prescriptions were provided to patients with at least one risk factor. Despite the recent emphasis on opioid stewardship, 14.2% of patients with risk factors for misuse, abuse, or diversion received opioid analgesics in this study, identifying an area of improvement for prescribers.

Virtual fracture clinic reduces patient X-ray volume for common wrist and ankle fractures.

BACKGROUND: Virtual fracture clinics (VFC) have been widely adopted worldwide as part of the changes in healthcare delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic. They have been shown to be a safe and effective method of delivering trauma care for injuries which do not require immediate intervention or specialist management, whilst maintaining high levels of patient satisfaction. AIMS: Our aim was to evaluate whether VFCs reduce the volume of X-rays performed for common fractures of the wrist and ankle. METHODS: A retrospective cohort review was performed. The pre-VFC group consisted of 168 wrist and 108 ankle referrals from March to September 2019. The VFC group included 75 wrist and 68 ankle referrals, during the period March to September 2020. The total number of X-ray images, carried out within a 3-month period for each fracture was summated, with statistical analysis performed following fracture pattern classification. FINDINGS: A statistically significant decrease in mean X-rays was observed for isolated stable fracture patterns, such as non-displaced distal radius, - 0.976 (p = 0.00025), and Weber A ankle fractures, - 0.907 (p = 0.000013). A reduction was also observed for more complex fracture patterns such as dorsally displaced distal radius, - 0.701 (p = 0.129) and Weber B ankle fractures, - 0.786 (p = 0.235), though not achieving statistical significance. CONCLUSIONS: Virtual fracture clinics can reduce X-ray frequency for common stable wrist and ankle fractures, with resultant benefits for both patients and healthcare systems. These benefits may be sustained in patient care beyond the current COVID-19 pandemic.