CT controlled results of direct reduction and fixation of posterior malleolus in ankle fractures

Posterolateral approach for posterior malleolus fixation in ankle fractures: functional and radiological outcome based on Bartonicek classification

INTRODUCTION

Posterolateral approach has been advocated for the treatment of ankle fractures involving the posterior malleolus and satisfactory results were demonstrated in several studies. The Bartonicek classification based on 3-dimensional CT scanning was commonly used for treatment recommendation of posterior malleolar fracture (PMF). The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the clinical effect of the posterolateral approach for the treatment of PMF and present outcomes of patients with different types of Bartonicek classification.

METHOD

We retrospectively reviewed the clinical outcomes of 72 patients with ankle fractures involving posterior malleolus (PM) from January 2016 to December 2018. Posterior malleolus fractures (PMFs) were all directly reduced and fixed by a posterolateral approach using lag screws and/or buttress plates. AOFAS score and VAS pain score were used as the primary functional outcome measures. The radiographic evaluation included the quality of the reduction and Kellgren-Lawrence (KL) osteoarthritis classification. According to the CT-based Bartonicek classification, all patients were classified into three groups: 42 type II, 18 type III and 12 type IV. Bartonicek type II patients were further divided into subtype IIa 19 cases, subtype IIb 16 cases and subtype IIc 7 cases. The radiological and functional outcomes were analyzed among different types and subtypes of Bartonicek classification.

RESULTS

Sixty-eight patients (94.5%) achieved good or excellent reduction of PMF after surgery. The mean AOFAS score was 81.35 ± 6.15 at 6 months and 90.56 ± 4.98 at the final follow-up, respectively. The VAS score was 6.62 ± 1.03 one week after surgery, and 1.20 ± 0.92 at the final follow-up. Radiological evaluation at the final follow-up showed that primary bone union was achieved in all patients and 65 patients (88.9%) got no (KL grade 0) or just doubtable (KL grade 1) post-traumatic osteoarthritis. AOFAS scores decreased significantly with the severity of Bartonicek classification at 6 month (p < 0.001) and final follow-up (p < 0.05), while there was no statistical difference of VAS pain score among different types of Bartonicek classification. Reduction quality and the presence of osteoarthritis was not correlated to Bartonicek classification either. Besides, AOFAS scores at the final follow-up were statistically different among three subtypes of Bartonicek type II fractures (p < 0.05), and Bartonicek subtype IIa fractures had the highest AOFAS scores as 93 ± 4.99. Presence and severity of osteoarthritis was lower in patients with subtype IIa PMF compared to other subtype groups, this finding was statistically significant (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The posterolateral approach could achieve good clinical outcomes in the treatment of posterior malleolus fracture. Patients with a Bartonicek type II fracture had a better functional outcome measured by the AOFAS score compared to other types. Bartonicek type IIa fractures got a higher AOFAS score and a lower incidence of osteoarthritis at the final follow-up than the other two subtypes. Classification of PMFs according to the Bartonicek classification was reliable.

Classifications of posterior malleolar fractures: a systematic literature review

INTRODUCTION

Complex ankle fractures frequently involve the posterior malleolus. Many classifications describing posterior malleolar fractures (PMF) exist. The aim of this study was to provide a systematic literature review to outline existing PMF classifications and estimate their accuracy.

METHODS

The databases PubMed and Scopus were searched without time limits. Only specific PMF classifications were included; general ankle and/or pilon fracture classifications were excluded. Selection and data extraction was performed by three independent observers. The systematic literature search was performed according to the current criteria of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). The methodological quality of the included studies was quantified using the modified Coleman score.

RESULTS

A total of 110 studies with a total of 12.614 patients were included. Four main classifications were identified: Those describing the size of the posterior malleolar fracture (n = 66), Haraguchi (n = 44), Bartoníček/Rammelt (n = 21) and Mason (n = 12). The quality of the studies was moderate to good with a median Coleman-score of 43.5 (14-79) and a weighted median Coleman-score of 42.5 points. All classifications achieved a substantial to perfect score regarding the inter- and intraobserver reliability, with Mason scoring the lowest in comparison.

CONCLUSIONS

None of the reviewed PMF classifications has been able to establish itself decisively in the literature. Most of the classifications are insufficient in terms of a derivable treatment algorithm or a prognosis with regard to outcome. However, as the Bartoníček/Rammelt classification has the greatest potential due to its treatment algorithm, its reliability in combination with consistent predictive values, its usage in clinical practice and research appears advisable.

Variation in posterior fragment fixation in the Netherlands: a nationwide study

PURPOSE

The treatment of the posterior fragment in trimalleolar fractures differs from hospital to hospital in the Netherlands. A nationwide survey was performed to evaluate the fixation criteria and practice variation.

METHODS

An online cross-sectional survey amongst (orthopaedic) trauma surgeons was performed in the Netherlands. It consisted of three sections: a general section, a section showing preoperative images of six cases and a section with postoperative images of nine cases.

RESULTS

A total of 151 surgeons completed the online survey. 45% of the respondents indicated that they fixated the posterior fragment if smaller than 25% of the intra-articular surface. 48% preferred an open posterior approach to fixate the posterior fragment. There was good consensus in treatment for the two cases with Bartonicek type 4 fractures (operative treatment in 73 and 72% respectively). Little consensus was found for Bartonicek type 2 and 3 fractures (88% opted for operative treatment in one case, but 89% for conservative treatment in the second case). Reoperation was mostly considered in cases with a step-off of more than 1 mm (by 33-38% of the respondents). There was great variation in the choice of treatment if only the size of the posterior fragment was considered. Other fixation criteria such as postoperative step-off or instability after fixation of the lateral and medial malleoli are taken into account. In cases where fixation was needed, a percutaneous approach and an open posterolateral approach were equally preferred.

CONCLUSIONS

There is much variation in treatment of the posterior malleolar fracture amongst orthopaedic and trauma surgeons in the Netherlands. The percutaneous approach and open posterolateral approach to fixate the posterior malleolar fracture seem to be equally used in the Netherlands. Still, there is no uniformity in treatment of posterior malleolar fracture, especially for Bartonicek 2 and Bartonicek 3 fractures. Reoperation is considered by less than half of the surgeons in case of postoperative persistent step-off of more than 1 mm.

Intercalary fragments in posterior malleolar fractures: incidence, treatment implications, and distribution within CT-based classification systems

Introduction

Complex ankle fractures frequently include the posterior malleolus (PM). Despite advances in diagnostic and treatment strategies, PM fracture involvement still predisposes to worse outcomes. While not incorporated into the most common PM fracture classifications, the presence of an intercalary fragment (ICF) complicates treatment. This study aims to describe the incidence, morphology, and location of ICFs in PM fractures.

Materials and methods

A total of 135 patients with a mean age of 54.4 (SD ± 18.9) years and PM fractures were analyzed for the presence of an ICF. Patients with an ICF were compared to those without in terms of age, gender, and treatment received. Characteristics of the ICFs in terms of location and size were assessed. Furthermore, the presence of an ICF in relation to the PM fracture classification according to Haraguchi et al., Bartoníček/Rammelt et al., and Mason et al. was investigated.

Results

ICFs presented in 55 (41%) of the 135 patients. Patients with an ICF were younger, and the PM was more often operatively treated when compared to patients without an ICF. A posterolateral approach was used significantly more often in patients with an ICF. Almost all ICFs were found in the posterolateral (58%) and posterocentral (35%) regions. The majority of fragments were found in Bartoníček/Rammelt type 2 fractures, the most common fracture type. Bartoníček/Rammelt type 3 fractures had the highest relative frequency of ICFs.

Conclusion

ICFs are frequently found in PM fractures; however, they are not incorporated into any of the common classifications. They are generally found in younger patients and associated with more complex PM fractures. As they can complicate reduction of the main fragment and may require direct exposure to restore joint congruency, ICFs should be considered in PM fracture classifications. Due to their location, the majority of ICFs are able to be accessed using a posterolateral approach.

Unstable Rotational Ankle Fractures Treated With Anatomic Mortise Repair and Direct Posterior Malleolus Fixation

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to evaluate patient outcomes following a standardized algorithmic approach to ankle mortise stabilization, following rotational fracture, utilizing direct repair of the posterior malleolus in the prone position. Methods: Eighty consecutive patients with unstable rotational ankle fractures that involved the posterior malleolus were analyzed. All underwent direct repair of the posterior malleolus regardless of size through a posterolateral approach. Electronic records were retrospectively reviewed for demographic information, initial injury and operation details, healing status, and complications. Preoperative and postoperative radiographs were obtained to assess the initial injury and healing was determined both by radiographic and clinical progress at follow-up visits. Results: Average posterior malleolus fragment width was 8.1 ± 3.7 mm (range = 2.1-19.9 mm) and percentage of the articular surface was 23.6% (range = 7.1%-56.7%) on the lateral radiograph. Overall, 80/80 (100%) patients healed their ankle fractures by a mean 2.9 ± 1.1 months. Only 1 (1.3%) patient required transsyndesmotic fixation following posterior malleolus repair. Mean range of ankle motion was as follows: dorsiflexion 20° ± 10°, plantarflexion 34° ± 10°, inversion 8° ± 4°, and eversion 7° ± 4°. Seventy-nine patients (98.8%) had an anatomic mortise reduction. Nine patients (11.3%) had a superficial wound complication, 3 patients (3.8%) had dysesthesia in the sural nerve distribution, and 1 patient (1.3%) lost reduction of the medial malleolus. Conclusion: Patients who undergo direct repair of the posterior malleolus in the prone position can expect a high rate of healing with superficial wound breakdown being the biggest problem, which was associated with an ankle fracture dislocation. Posterior malleolus fixation may obviate the need of transsyndesmotic stabilization.Levels of Evidence: Retrospective Level IV.

Ankle fractures involving the posterior malleolus: patient characteristics and 7-year results in 100 cases

INTRODUCTION

The presence of a posterior malleolar (PM) fragment has a negative prognostic impact in ankle fractures. The best treatment is still subject to debate. The aim of this study was to assess the medium-to-long-term clinical and functional outcome of ankle fractures with a PM fragment in a larger patient population.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One hundred patients (69 women, 31 men, average age 60 years) with ankle fractures including the PM were evaluated clinically and radiographically. Patients with Bartoníček-Rammelt type 3 and 4 fracture displayed a significant female preponderance. Fixation of the PM was performed in 63% and tailored to the individual fracture pattern.

RESULTS

Internal fixation of the PM fragment was negatively correlated with the need for syndesmotic screw placement at the time of surgery (p = 0.010). At an average follow-up of 7.0 years, the mean Foot Function Index (FFI) was 16.5 (SD: 21.5), the Olerud Molander Ankle Score (OMAS) averaged 80.2 (SD: 24) and the American Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle/hindfoot score averaged 87.5 (SD: 19.1). The maximum score of 100 was achieved by 44% of patients. The physical (PCS) and mental health component summary (MCS) scores of the SF-36 averaged 47.7 (SD: 12.51) and 50.5 (SD: 9.36), respectively. Range of motion was within 3.4 (SD: 6.63) degrees of the uninjured side. The size of the PM fragment had no prognostic value. There was a trend to lower outcome scores with slight anterior or posterior shift of the distal fibula within the tibial incisura. Patients who underwent primary internal fixation had significantly superior SF-36 MCS than patients who underwent staged internal fixation (p = 0.031).

CONCLUSIONS

With an individualized treatment protocol, tailored to the CT-based assessment of PM fractures, favorable medium and long-term results can be expected.

"Double Maisonneuve fracture": an unknown fracture pattern

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to describe pathoanatomy and to raise awareness of a fracture of the lateral malleolus combined with a high subcapital fracture of the fibula caused by a dislocation mechanism.

METHODS

The study comprised 11 patients, 5 men and 6 women, with the mean age of 57 years (range, 21-87), with a "Double Maisonneuve fracture". Individual lesions of ankle structures were described on the basis of radiographs, CT, and intraoperative findings.

RESULTS

The distal fibular fracture was classified as Weber type B in 1 case and Weber type C in 10 cases. The proximal fibular fracture was described as a subcapital oblique spiral fracture with metadiaphyseal involvement in nine cases and a high short oblique fracture with fibular head involvement in two cases. Injury to the deltoid ligament was revealed in six cases; a bicollicular fracture of the medial malleolus was found in five patients. Posterior malleolar fractures were classified as type 1 in eight cases and type 2 in three cases. Avulsion of the Chaput tubercle was detected in four cases. Injury to the interosseous tibiofibular ligament was assessed in nine patients.

CONCLUSION

Double Maisonneuve fracture is a rare but probably underreported injury that must be taken into consideration during examination, as it may be easily overlooked. The essential part of diagnosis is a careful clinical examination and radiological assessment of the lower leg with additional CT examination of the ankle.

Posterior Malleolar Fractures: A Critical Analysis Review

In patients with ankle fractures, the presence of a posterior malleolar fracture has a negative impact on the prognosis. Computed tomography (CT) scanning is essential for fracture classification and treatment planning, as the indication for surgery depends on the 3-dimensional fragment outline and displacement, incisura involvement, and the presence of joint impaction. Anatomic reduction of a posterior malleolar fragment restores the incisura, facilitating reduction of the distal part of the fibula, and it also restores the integrity of the posterior portion of the syndesmosis, reducing the need for additional syndesmotic stabilization. Direct open reduction and fixation of posterior malleolar fragments from a posterior orientation is biomechanically more stable and provides a more accurate reduction than does indirect reduction and anterior-to-posterior screw fixation. Intra-articular step-off of >=2 mm is an independent risk factor for an inferior outcome and the development of posttraumatic arthritis, irrespective of the fragment size.

[Open reduction and internal fixation of posterior malleolus fractures]

OBJECTIVE

Stabilization of the syndesmotic complex by open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of the posterior malleolus, restoration of the tibial articular surface, stability of the ankle, posterior tibiofibular ligament and the incisura tibiae, reduction of the fibula into the incisura tibiae by ligamentotaxis.

INDICATIONS

Unstable ankle fractures (OTA/AO type 44-B3, C1.3, C2.3, C3.3) with involvement of the posterior malleolus (type II-IV according to Bartoníček and Rammelt).

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Critical general condition, circulatory disorders, severe soft tissue swelling (if necessary, first external fixator), percutaneous treatment the better alternative.

SURGICAL TECHNIQUE

Positioning in unstable lateral position, dorsolateral approach dorsally of the peroneal tendons, incision of the superficial and deep fascia, retraction of the flexor hallucis longus tendon medially, visualization of the posterior malleolus, reduction and fixation. To treat the lateral malleolus fracture, preparation of a full-thickness flap above the peroneal tendons on the fibula, treatment according to AO principles. For the treatment of the medial malleolus positioning in supine position without changing the sterile covers, medial approach for the medial malleolus, wound closure.

POSTOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT

Six weeks partial weight bearing (20 kg), early functional exercise, exercise of the flexor hallucis longus muscle; transition to full weight bearing after clinical and radiological follow-up after 6 weeks RESULTS: Few clinical results on open ORIF of the posterior malleolus have been published. However, most studies found that ORIF resulted in better reconstruction of the distal articular surface and the tibial incisura, better reduction of the fibula into the tibial incisura, stabilization of the distal tibiofibular joint and better clinical results, regardless of fragment size, when compared to closed reduction or untreated fragments.

[Fracture of the posterior malleolus : A paradigm shift]

Ankle fractures with involvement of the posterior malleolus have a poor prognosis. The traditional concept of addressing the posterior fragment as the final step in the surgical reconstruction depending on the fragment size manifest in the lateral X‑ray, does not do justice to the anatomic and biomechanical relevance of the posterior malleolus. Intra-articular step-offs and fragment displacement ≥ 2 mm, impacted intercalary fragments, involvement of the fibular notch and instability of the syndesmosis, represent parameters relevant for the surgical reconstruction and the functional and radiomorphological outcome independent of fragment size. A valid assessment of these parameters can only be achieved via computed tomography (CT) including multiplanar 2D and 3D reconstruction. This is the foundation for the classification of posterior malleolar fractures according to Bartoníček et al., it forms the basis of the preoperative analysis of the fracture components and represents a decision-making tool for the indications for surgery. The individual fracture pattern guides the selection of the suitable approach or a combination of approaches and the surgical strategy. Making use of the posterior approaches enables the surgeon to have a direct view of the fracture components of the posterior malleolus as a precondition for an anatomic reduction. This central surgical step is frequently done as the first measure of the surgical reconstruction of the ankle joint. Furthermore, direct reduction and posterior stabilization is more accurate and stable than indirect reduction from an anterior approach with indirect fixation using lag screws. An additional temporary transfixation of the tibiofibular syndesmosis is often dispensable.