Ankle Fractures

The ankle joint is made up of 3 bones: tibia, fibula, and talus.

With respect to ankle fractures there are 3 main components known as the medial malleolus, posterior malleolus and lateral malleolus. There is a strong band of tissue which connect the tibia to the fibula, which is known as the syndesmotic ligament. When the ankle fractures one or all of they components can be injured.

• Pain, swelling, or bruising of the ankle after an injury
• Deformity of the ankle
• Inability to bear weight

If you think you have an ankle fracture, a thorough history and examination should be performed by a foot and ankle specialist. Our Walk-In Anytime Ortho Orthopedic Urgent Care Clinic is a convenient affordable way to get an accurate diagnosis and treatment without having to go through the hassle and costs of a hospital emergency room.

Ankle fractures are diagnosed using imaging techniques such as X-rays, CT scan, or MRI. X-rays are important to determine fracture characteristics such as the position of the fracture, whether it is displaced or nondisplaced, whether it is angulated, whether the fracture involves the cartilage.

There are several treatment options for ankle fractures which will be discussed between the patient and the foot and ankle surgeon. The best treatment depends on factors such as fracture type and patient age.

• Reduction without manipulation - If the fracture is in a good position, treatment may only require immobilization with a cast for several weeks
• Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) - If a fracture is out of place, but not amenable to closed treatment, an open reduction internal fixation may be performed. ORIF involves making an incision over the fracture so that the fracture fragments can be put back into good position. The fracture fragments are then held in place with either a plate and screws or pins.

Regardless of the treatment options most fractures will require you to be non-weightbearing for a certain amount of time. The length of time the patient will need to be non-weightbearing will differ depending on the extent of the injury. Non-weightbearing can be accomplished with crutches, a walker, a knee scooter, or a wheelchair.

After surgery you will be placed in a surgical dressing and most likely a supportive device known as a splint. You should keep the dressing clean, dry and intact. You will be seen in the office during your recovery process and the dressing will be changed during these visits. X-rays are taken at each office visit to monitor the position of the fracture and hardware and to monitor the healing of the bones. Therapy may be recommended to help to regain range of motion of the ankle.