S-Type Posterolateral Approach for Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of Pronation External Rotation Ankle Fractures: Improved Visualisation of the Posterior Joint and the Lateral Malleolus

Pronation external rotation (PER) fractures are unstable ankle fractures that require anatomically stable fixation. However, due to the long distance between the fibula and the posterior malleolus in PER IV, existing approaches may make it difficult for the fixation of the associated posterior joint and the lateral malleolus. We describe an S-type posterolateral approach for the open reduction and internal fixation of posterior malleolar fractures with an associated lateral malleolar fracture in PER IV.     

后外侧联合内侧入路急诊内固定治疗三踝骨折

目的探讨后外侧联合内侧入路急诊内固定治疗三踝骨折的疗效。方法对23例三踝骨折患者急诊采用后外侧入路行后踝骨折复位空心螺钉或支撑钢板内固定、外踝骨折复位钢板内固定,内侧入路行内踝骨折复位空心螺钉内固定。末次随访时采用AOFAS踝-后足功能评分标准评价疗效。结果患者均获得随访,时间10~32个月。切口均一期愈合。骨折均愈合,时间10~20周。无畸形愈合、螺钉松动、钢板断裂等并发症发生。末次随访时采用AOFAS踝-后足功能评分标准评价疗效:优19例,良3例,可1例,优良率22/23。结论后外侧联合内侧入路急诊内固定治疗三踝骨折,可较为轻松完成后踝—外踝—内踝骨折的复位和坚强固定,同时也可对下胫腓联合复位固定,临床效果满意。     

Defining a Safe Zone for Percutaneous Screw Fixation of Posterior Malleolar Fractures

Posterior malleolar fractures require fixation to confer stability to the ankle. Although some have suggested that fractures involving less than 25% of the articular surface require no intervention, estimation of malleolar size on plain imaging is inaccurate. Some posterior malleolar fractures may be particularly suitable for posterior-to-anterior percutaneous screw fixation of the posterior malleolus via a posterolateral approach. We hypothesized that there may be a safe zone in the posterolateral ankle, identifiable with reliable anatomic landmarks, that might allow safe percutaneous screw placement for fracture fixation. The study protocol involved Step 1, in which multiple Kirschner wires were used in a single cadaveric specimen to attempt to identify a safe zone entry point in the posterior ankle, and Step 2, in which a single wire was used in each of six additional cadaveric specimens to test the ability to safely replicate the use of that entry point. In Step 1, a safe zone entry point was identified, located immediately lateral to the Achilles tendon and 1 cm above the level of the tip of the medial malleolus, when visualizing the posterior ankle. In Step 2, using these landmarks and an image intensifier, single wires were then successfully placed in the other six specimens without injury to any significant structure. If confirmed in clinical studies, the safe zone entry point that we have identified could potentially be used to facilitate posterior-to-anterior percutaneous fixation in patients with posterior malleolar fractures for whom open reduction may not be required or may be contraindicated.     

Outcomes of posterior malleolar fixation in ankle fractures in a major trauma centre

AimsOngoing controversy exists over the indications and benefits of posterior malleolar fixation in ankle fractures. The aim of this pragmatic study was to evaluate the outcomes of posterior malleolar fracture fixation in ankle fractures in the setting of a major trauma centre. Our hypothesis is that posterior malleolus fixation leads to improved clinical outcomes.MethodsA total of 320 patients were identified with operatively treated ankle fractures involving a posterior malleolus component, at our institution between January 2012 and January 2018, ensuring a minimum 2 year follow-up. Of these patients, 160 had the posterior malleolus fixed as part of their surgery and 160 did not. Patient demographics, surgical details and complications were assessed. The Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire (MOXFQ) was the primary patient outcome measure.ResultsFixation of the posterior malleolus was associated with a statistically significant improvement in patient outcomes. Mean MOXFQ score in the unfixed posterior malleolus group was 24.03 (0 - 62), compared to 20.10 (0 - 67) in the fixed posterior malleolus group (p = 0.04). Outcomes were worse with increasing size of posterior malleolar fragment. Metalwork-related issues were higher in the posterior malleolus fixed group (24/160 (15%) versus 10/160 (6.2%)) and re-operation rate was double.ConclusionThis study demonstrates that in the practical setting of a major trauma unit, fixation of the posterior malleolar fracture leads to improved patient outcomes but with increased metalwork risks and reoperation rates.     

后踝骨折手术复位内固定的疗效分析

背景：随着对踝关节损伤的进一步认识,后踝骨折逐渐被临床医师所重视,越来越多的后踝骨折采用手术治疗。目的：评价手术复位内固定治疗后踝骨折的手术指征、方法及疗效。方法：回顾性分析2008年4月至2012年5月采用后外侧入路支撑接骨板或（和）空心拉力螺钉治疗并获完整随访的37例后踝骨折患者的临床资料,男23例,女14例;年龄21~68岁,平均（43±1.3）岁。根据Lauge-Hansen分型：旋后外旋Ⅲ度14例,Ⅳ度10例;旋前外旋Ⅳ度13例。全部患者均由同一组骨科医师进行择期手术,采用后外侧入路行后踝及外踝骨折内固定,有内踝骨折者联合内侧入路行内踝内固定。术后随访,观察骨折愈合情况、内固定稳定情况和踝关节功能情况。结果：手术时间为65~120 min,平均（85±3）min;住院时间为5~14 d,平均（9.3±0.8）d。患者切口均Ⅰ期愈合。随访时间为13~36个月,平均（24.7±1.1）个月,无一例发生畸形愈合、骨折再移位及内固定失败。骨折愈合时间为2~4个月,平均（2.9±0.4）个月。根据美国矫形足踝协会（AOFAS）踝-后足评分标准进行功能评估,优20例,良13例,中4例,优良率为89%。结论：手术复位内固定治疗后踝骨折可获得解剖复位和坚强固定,早期功能锻炼利于患者获得良好的功能结果。     

Posterior malleolar ankle fractures: an in vitro biomechanical analysis of stability in the loaded and unloaded states.

The use of internal fixation for posterior malleolar fractures remains controversial. This study assessed the contribution of the posterior malleolus/posterior tibiofibular (PM/PTF) complex to ankle stability in the loaded condition. Total plantarflexion and dorsiflexion, torsion, version, and drawer were measured with 15- and 70-kg loads before and after creation of posterior malleolar fractures that measured 25% of the distal articular surface. After internal fixation, specimens were retested. Fractures caused significant increases with internal rotation and posterior drawer at 15- and 70-kg loads in the neutral position. External rotation, anterior drawer, and dorsiflexion increased at 15-kg load. Fixation increased stability of fractured specimens, but not significantly. Fractures of the PM/PTF ligament complex may lead to excessive internal rotation and posterior instability in the loaded state.     

Incarceration of the Posterior Tibial Tendon in an Isolated Comminuted Medial Malleolus Fracture

Isolated medial malleolar fractures are a less common presentation of an ankle fracture. Treatment is not universally accepted, although many have agreed that any displacement warrants anatomic reduction and fixation. We present a case of an isolated, comminuted medial malleolar fracture that was displaced secondary to entrapment of the posterior tibial tendon between the fracture fragments requiring surgical intervention. The patient was treated with prompt open reduction and internal fixation and had an excellent functional outcome at 1 year. When open reduction and internal fixation of the medial malleolus is indicated, a thorough exploration of the zone of injury is required to identify and adequately address any surrounding pathologic features beyond just the disrupted bony anatomy. To the best of our knowledge, this specific injury has never been previously reported and emphasizes the importance of understanding the local anatomy and how restoration of the distorted anatomy is vital to optimize patient function.     

Nonunion of a medial malleolar stress fracture in an adolescent athlete secondary to lateral ankle instability: A case report

IntroductionMedial malleolar stress fractures are relatively uncommon. This report describes the successful treatment of nonunion of a medial malleolar stress fracture due to chronic lateral ankle instability.Presentation of caseA 13-year-old middle school student who belonged to a football club presented to our clinic with chronic medial left ankle pain lasting over a year. He had sprained his left ankle several times 6 years earlier. A plain anteroposterior ankle radiograph showed a vertical fracture line in the medial malleolus involving the epiphyseal plate, and computed tomography demonstrated the vertical fracture seen on the plain radiographs and bone sclerosis at the fracture site. We performed internal fixation for nonunion of the medial malleolar stress fracture with arthroscopic modified Broström for lateral ankle instability. Two years after surgery, the Self-Administered Foot Evaluation Questionnaire improved in all parameters, and both the anterior drawer and varus stress tests were negative.DiscussionEarly diagnosis of medial malleolar stress fracture is important for a rapid return to sports. Magnetic resonance imaging is helpful for early diagnosis. Because lateral ankle instability can cause medial malleolar stress fracture, arthroscopic modified Broström procedure is meaningful for medial malleolar stress fracture with lateral ankle instability.ConclusionInternal fixation and the arthroscopic modified Broström procedure could achieve good clinical outcomes for medial malleolar stress fractures with lateral ankle instability.     

骨折间隙直视下复位固定后踝移位骨折

[目的]介绍骨折断端间隙直视法下三踝骨折中后踝移位骨折复位固定的手术技术与临床效果。[方法]选择2014年1月~2017年12月手足外科收治的三踝骨折中后踝移位骨折患者42例,采用骨折断端间隙直视法复位固定后踝骨折,采用骨骼肌肉功能评分(SMFA)评定患者术后恢复情况。[结果]所有患者均达到骨性愈合,术后未出现需要进行翻修手术或感染的病例,踝关节背伸跖屈功能良好。患者骨骼肌肉功能评分(SMFA)功能障碍指数平均为(8.01±1.73)分,SMFA困扰指数平均为(2.22±1.31)分。所有患者术后平均3个月进行正常的日常生活活动。[结论]对于三踝骨折中后踝移位骨折的治疗,采用后外侧入路骨折断端直视下复位固定方法可能是一种更好的选择。     

Deltoid ligament integrity in lateral malleolar fractures: a comparative analysis of arthroscopic and radiographic assessments

Foot and ankle surgeons often rely on the medial clear space to evaluate competency of the deep deltoid ligament when evaluating ankle fractures. This investigation assesses the integrity of the deep deltoid ligament after lateral malleolar fracture by using direct arthroscopic visualization and medial clear-space separation on plain film radiographs. The objectives of this study were to test the reliability of medial clear-space separation and the Lauge-Hansen classification scheme in predicting deep deltoid rupture in displaced lateral malleolar fractures. The medial clear space was measured on injury radiographs of 40 patients with an isolated displaced lateral malleolar fracture who underwent open reduction and internal fixation. Injury radiographs were classified according to the Lauge-Hansen scheme. Direct arthroscopic visualization was used to evaluate the deep deltoid ligament under manual stress before fracture reduction. The mean preoperative medial clear space in patients with a deep deltoid rupture (n = 13) was 6.6 +/- 2.4 mm (range, 4 to 12 mm), and in patients without a deep deltoid rupture (n = 26), it was 4.0 +/- 1.0 mm (range, 2.5 to 6 mm) (P =.002, 2-sample t test). At an injury medial clear space > or =3 mm, the false positive rate for deltoid rupture was 88.5% (P =.54, Fisher's exact test). At > or =4 mm, the false positive rate was 53.6% (P =.007). All fractures were rotational injuries according to the Lauge-Hansen system. Three fractures were not classifiable; another 3 fractures showed deltoid ligament integrity opposite the expected finding. The results indicate that, in isolated displaced fractures of the lateral malleolus, radiographic widening of the medial clear space is not a reliable indicator for deep deltoid rupture. Some fractures considered stable by the Lauge-Hansen classification may require careful scrutiny to rule out deep deltoid injury.     

胫骨远端后内侧解剖接骨板固定后踝治疗三踝骨折

目的探讨胫骨远端后内侧解剖接骨板固定后踝治疗三踝骨折的临床效果。方法2007年2月至2009年1月采用胫骨远端后内侧解剖接骨板固定后踝治疗三踝骨折患者11例,男7例,女4例;年龄23～58岁,平均41岁;左踝5例,右踝6例;开放骨折2例,闭合骨折9例。根据Lauge-Hansen分型均为旋前外旋型Ⅳ度,后踝骨折均超过关节面的25%。结果全部获得随访,随访时间为11～26个月,平均15.8个月。伤口均一期愈合,无一例发生感染。骨折愈合时间为10～15周,平均11.6周。术后采用AOFAS踝关节-后足评分标准,评分为83～100分,平均87.2分。结论胫骨远端后内侧解剖接骨板固定后踝是治疗三踝骨折的有效方法之一。     

The role of arthroscopy in the management of fractures about the ankle

Anatomic restoration of the joint is the goal of management in fractures about the ankle. Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) is the standard of care for unstable ankle fractures; however, arthroscopic management has been proposed. The use of arthroscopic reduction and internal fixation (ARIF) is surgeon-dependent. Reported indications for ARIF include transchondral talar dome fracture, talar fracture, low-grade fracture of the distal tibia, syndesmotic disruption, malleolar fracture, and chronic pain following definitive management of fracture about the ankle. Among the potential benefits are less extensive exposure, preservation of blood supply, and improved visualization of the pathology. Although arthroscopy is increasingly used in the setting of trauma, the effectiveness of ARIF compared with ORIF for management of fractures of the distal tibia, malleolus, displaced talar neck, and talar body has yet to be determined. Most of these fractures are effectively managed with open procedures.     

External rotation-lateral view of the ankle in the assessment of the posterior malleolus.

Demonstration of a posterior malleolar fragment on a radiograph of an ankle fracture is important in the diagnosis and evaluation of posterior malleolus fractures. The size and extent of displacement of a posterior malleolar fragment can be evaluated. The diagnosis of non-union of the posterior malleolus is also important because it can lead to failure of reduction of ankle fractures. The authors present a case in which nonunion of the posterior malleolus was diagnosed by an external-rotation lateral view of the ankle. This could not be demonstrated on the AP or the lateral views. Thirteen cadaver feet were then used to study the external-rotation lateral view. A posterior malleolar fracture was created, and the borders of the fracture line were marked with solder wire. The average external rotation angle required to best demonstrate the posterior malleolar fracture was 50 degrees (range, 43 degrees -55 degrees). The actual size of the posterior malleolus fragment was measured and compared to the x-ray measurement. There was a 0.10 correction for the determination of the actual size of the fragment. The unmarked fragment could not be demonstrated on AP and lateral views.     

Early weight bearing after posterior malleolar fractures: An experimental and prospective clinical study

The distribution of axial load to the lower end of the tibia at different positions of the ankle joint for the anterior, middle, and posterior part of the joint was studied in both photoelastic models and fractured ankle joints in cadaveric specimens. Synthetic models were used to simulate both normal ankle joints and ankles with fractures of the posterior lip of the tibia. Tests were performed with the ankle at dorsiflexed, neutral-flexed, and plantarflexed positions of the ankle joint. The clinical portion of the study evaluated 15 patients with fracture of the posterior malleolus that comprised 0% to 33% of the articular surface. All patients had open reduction and internal fixation through a posterolateral or posteromedial approach, and were allowed full weight bearing in a cast within 7 days of surgery. In the simulated models, the posterior one fourth of the ankle joint remains unloaded in the majority of the cases. The stresses are greatly increased when the load is doubled and are mainly distributed to the 2 central quadrants. With additional axial load, the fourth quadrant sustained little increase in the load bearing. All patients have had an uneventful recovery. By the second postoperative month, they were able to walk normally and had a painless range of motion of the ankle. By the third month, all patients were able to undertake their daily activities, and all fractures were consolidated. The clinical relevance of this study is early weight bearing, after open reduction internal fixation of posterior malleolar fracture of the ankle joint, facilitates recovery, promotes fracture union, and allows the patient to assume normal activity by the third month after surgery.     

Use of emergency room external fixator in provisional reduction of posterior malleolar fractures

Closed reduction is an important initial step in managing ankle fractures. Although the majority of ankle fractures can be managed with closed reduction, the posterior malleolar fracture is often unstable. Posterior malleolar fractures may result in persistent posterior ankle dislocation with compromise of the soft tissue surrounding the joint. Persistent dislocation is best treated with urgent open reduction and fixation to protect the cartilage and surrounding soft tissues and to allow for ease of reduction at the time of surgery. We describe a technique for placing an emergency room external fixator for provisional reduction of the unstable posterior malleolar fracture. This technique allows for early reduction of unstable posterior malleolar fractures and avoids the need for urgent operative reduction.     

Cerclage Wire and Lag Screw Fixation of the Lateral Malleolus in Supination and External Rotation Fractures of the Ankle

Wound dehiscence and exposed lateral hardware can occur after open reduction internal fixation of lateral malleolus. The bulk of a lateral plate and the minimum soft tissue over the lateral malleolus may contribute to this situation. The objective of this study was to evaluate a series of patients with lateral malleolar fractures treated with operative reduction using minimal hardware. We wanted to observe whether there was any loss of reduction and whether there were any incidences of soft tissue disruption. Fifty-two patients with long spiral fracture of the lateral malleolus in a supination-external rotation injury were treated with two or three 3.5-mm lag screws inserted 1 cm apart and 1 or 2 circlage wires. Less rigid fixation was supplemented with a below-the-knee plaster cast. All patients were followed up until clinical and radiological evidence of fracture healing at 6, 10, and 14 weeks postoperatively. By 10 weeks, all patients were full weight bearing, although most patients still limped. At 14 weeks' follow-up, there were no infections or wound dehiscences. All patients were able to return to their activities of daily living. All the fractures had united without loss of original position. Two fractures of the posterior bone spikes seen during surgery united uneventfully. Long spiral fractures of the lateral malleolus of the ankle can be treated successfully with 2 or 3 lag screws and circlage wires without compromising the outcome of the fracture healing.     

后外侧入路在老年性踝关节骨折中的应用

[目的]评价后外侧入路在老年踝关节骨折中的临床应用.[方法]2005年3月-2007年8月对13例老年踝关节骨折采取后外侧入路行外后踝骨折切开复位内固定,同一切口中外踝骨折钢板内固定放置于腓骨远端后侧、后踝骨折行螺钉或钢板固定.观察术后伤口愈合、骨折恢复及内固定情况,同时按Olerud和Molander踝关节骨折术后评分系统对踝关节功能进行评估.[结果] 13例均获随访,随访时间6～23个月,平均15个月.伤口无裂开、坏死,1例出现症状不甚严重的腓骨肌腱炎,骨折愈合后取出钢板后症状消失.术后4～6个月X线片显示骨折均愈合,无内固定松动、断裂.踝关节骨折术后功能评分平均为91分,其中优9例,良3例,可1例,优良率为92.3％.[结论]后外侧入路能同时完成后外踝骨折的治疗,可减少老年患者的手术创伤、创面感染及坏死等并发症,对伴骨质疏松老年患者的外踝骨折能进行牢靠安全固定.     

Displaced malleolar fractures associated with spiral fractures of the tibial shaft

A displaced fracture of the lateral malleolus, of the posterior tibial margin (posterior malleolus), or of both requiring open reduction and internal fixation was observed in association with ipsilateral spiral tibial shaft fracture in five patients. The malleolus fracture components all were managed using AO (ASIF) instrumentation. The tibial shaft fracture was treated nonoperatively in three patients and with interfragmentary screw fixation in two with more severe initial displacement. The bony healing of all fractures was uneventful. These combined injuries amounted to 0.9% of all admitted tibial shaft fractures and 3.9% of those with spiral configuration. An associated displaced malleolar fracture in tibial shaft fractures, sometimes even indiscernible in the anteroposterior view, may be overlooked unless roentgenograms are focused on the ankle joint. Examination of the joints above and below the fracture is of particular importance in clinics advocating functional treatment of tibial shaft fractures.     

The posterolateral approach to the tibia for displaced posterior malleolar injuries

Fractures involving the posterior malleolus of the tibia can be difficult to manage. Failure to address these fractures can lead to posterior ankle instability and altered ankle reaction forces. The posterolateral approach to the posterior ankle provides access to both the lateral and posterior malleoli. Displaced fractures of the posterior malleolus can be reduced and fixed under direct visualization through a posterolateral incision. We have had excellent results using this technique for management of displaced posterior malleolar fractures with few complications. Surgeons should be aware of the effectiveness of this technique for managing displaced fractures of the posterior malleolus.     

The contribution of anterior deltoid ligament to ankle stability in isolated lateral malleolar fractures

The treatment of isolated lateral malleolar fractures with deltoid ligament rupture remains controversial. We prospectively analysed 35 patients with isolated lateral malleolar fractures during 2006–2013. Radiography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were performed to assess the degree of reduction, ligament damage, and stability. Internal fixation was performed for all unstable valgus fractures with unacceptable fracture parameters. Fractures with residual valgus instability after fixation underwent anterior deltoid repair. The mean anterior deltoid ligament grade based on MRI was significantly different between the high-grade unstable group and the stable and low-grade unstable groups (p = 0.037 and 0.004, respectively). Postoperative medial clear space measurements were not significantly different between groups. MRI was shown to be a useful tool in the preoperative identification of isolated lateral malleolus fractures prone to valgus instability. In the case of high-grade unstable fractures of the lateral malleolus, repair of the anterior deltoid ligament is adequate for restoring medial stability.