Prognostic analysis of ankle fractures for surgery

Objective To investigate the clinical effect and prognostic factors of ankle fractures. Methods From January 2012 to January 2016, 76 patients with ankle fractures were selected. Thirty-five cases had injury on the right ankle, and 41 on the left. There were 24 cases of single ankle fracture, 27 cases of bimalleolar fractures and 25 cases of trimalleolar fractures. Screws were used for simple medial malleolus fracture. Tension band were used for comminuted medial malleolus fracture. Posterior malleolus fracture involving the joint surface of tibia and talus need internal fixation, if it was more than 25%. The outcomes were assessed by American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scoring scale. The activity of the healthy ankle and the injured side were compared by paired t-test. Results There was no significant difference in the degree of inversion angle or posterior foot movement, but there was significant difference in the degree of motion, back extension, plantar flexion degree and valgus angle between the affected side and the contralateral side. The length of follow-up ranged 4 to 32 months. According to AOFAS scoring scale, 62 patients had excellent outcomes and 14 patients felt good. The excellent and good rate was 100%. Conclusions Early open reduction and internal fixation combined with early exercises is an effective method for ankle fracture, and it is deserved to promote in clinical work. Key words: Ankle fracture; Surgical treatment; Prognostic analysis