Evaluation of results of operative treatment of malleolar fractures by A.O. Techniques

Abstract

1. Open reduction of ankle fracture-dislocations, rationale, principles and techniques are discussed. 2. Series of 66 cases, fully documented, with average follow up of 16.8 months, has been presented showing 72.7% excellent and good results, and .27.3% fair and poor results. 2. The main two classification systems, Lauge Hansen and A.O. are discussed, the former classification, is recommended, for proper understanding of the pathology, hence the stability and treatment, and the rare varients of ankle injuries, however neither classification system correlated significantly with better or worse prognosis. 4. When predicting the results, the following factors ( in order )were most significantly correlated with the final clinical result, quality of postoperative reduction, posterior malleolar fragment larger than 25% of articular surface, time to surgery, severe comminution and nature of medial injury. 5. Age did not inversely affect the final score in our series, evenmore, it was inversely proprtionate to the degree of arthrosis. Age had also significant effect on the type of medial and posterior injuries.