Ankle Fractures
Ankle fractures are a common injury, more common in younger males or older females, and account for around 10% of all fractures seen in the trauma setting. An ankle sprain is an injury to the foot's ligaments in the ankle. Ligaments are tough bands of elastic tissue that connect bones to each other. Ankle sprains may occur if the ankle rolls, turns, or twists beyond its normal range of motion. Ankle sprains may be caused by awkward foot placement, irregular surfaces, weak muscles, loose ligaments, or wearing shoes with spiked heels
Clinical features
Patients will often present with pain in the region of ankle and swelling following a traumatic injury. There may be an associated deformity.
Treatment
The General First aid treatment given to any ankle fracture is to give Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation of the affected foot.
Conservative
Conservative management can be done for Ankle sprain and undisplaced Ankle fractures where the limb will be placed in a POP cast for a period of 6 weeks followed by gradual weight bearing.
Surgical
Open reduction and internal fixation (orif) is often required in displaced ankle fractures to achieve stable reduction and ensure good joint alignment to prevent degenerative arthritis.
This can be achieved with plate and screws under image intensifier guidance.