Ankle fractures in the elderly: MUA versus ORIF

Ankle fusion with tibiotalocalcaneal retrograde nail for fragility ankle fractures: outcomes at a major trauma centre

PURPOSE

Fragility ankles fractures in the geriatric population are challenging to manage, due to fracture instability, soft tissue compromise, and patient co-morbidities. Traditional management options include open reduction internal fixation, or conservative treatment, both of which are fraught with high complication rates. We aimed to present functional outcomes of elderly patients with fragility ankle fractures treated with retrograde ankle fusion nails.

METHODS

A retrospective observational study was performed on patients who underwent intramedullary nailing with a tibiotalocalcaneal nail. Twenty patients met the inclusion criteria of being over sixty and having multiple co-morbidities. Patient demographics, AO/OTA fracture classification, intra-operative and post-operative complications, time to mobilisation and union, AOFAS and Olerud-Molander scores, and patient mobility were recorded.

RESULTS

There were seven males and thirteen females, with a mean age of 77.82 years old, five of whom are type 2 diabetics. Thirteen patients returned to their pre-operative mobility state, and the average Charlson Co-morbidity Index (CCI) was 5.05. Patients with a low CCI are more likely to return to pre-operative mobility status (p = 0.16; OR = 4.00). All patients achieved radiographical union, taking on average between 92.5 days and 144.6 days. The mean post-operative AOFAS and Olerud-Molander scores were 53.0 and 50.9, respectively. There were four cases of superficial infection, four cases of broken or loose distal locking screws. There were no deep infections, periprosthetic fractures, nail breakages, or non-unions.

CONCLUSION

Tibiotalocalcaneal nailing is an effective and safe option for managing unstable ankle fractures in the elderly. This technique leads to lower complication rates and earlier mobilisation than traditional fixation methods.

Creative bracing: A descriptive overview of an alternative technique for non-operative fracture management of frail older adults

As the world population ages, a higher proportion of older and frailer patients will sustain fragility fractures. Considering their depleted physiologic reserve and potentially different goals of care at their stage in life, these patients; especially those enrolled in hospice care, with profound dementia, or at end-of-life care; may not benefit from traditional surgical methods of fracture care. Non-operative treatment using standard immobilization or casting techniques in older and frailer patients can still render them susceptible to complications and adverse events. Here we describe our alternative non-operative treatment method of creative bracing to address the needs of this specific population. Creative bracing can be done with simple supplies available in almost all healthcare settings. Through patient-specific pre-treatment assessment, a creative brace tailored to the patient's risk factors and goals of care can be designed to provide sufficient fracture immobilization and comfort. Creative bracing is a low-cost, low-technical demand modality for non-operative treatment of some fragility fractures. Its benefit can be appreciated to greatest effect in the frailest patients for whom standard, surgical treatment does not represent best care.

Retrograde tibiotalocalcaneal nailing for the treatment of acute ankle fractures in the elderly: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Introduction

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Factors Affecting Hospital Length of Stay in Geriatric Patients With a Surgically Treated Fragility Ankle Fracture

Fragility ankle fractures in elderly have a rising incidence and hospitalization may be prolonged due to pre-existing comorbidities, compromised soft tissue and postoperative difficulties in the rehabilitation process. The aim of this retrospective cohort study was to investigate risk factors for longer total hospitalization duration in elderly patients with surgically treated fragility (Lauge Hansen supination external rotation type 4) fractures. We included all patients ≥ 70 years with a fragility fracture, who were treated surgically between 2011 and 2019 (n = 97) in a level 1 and 2 trauma center. Data on patient demographics, fracture characteristics, surgical treatment strategies and postoperative complications were retrieved from medical records. Multivariate regression analysis was performed to identify independent risk factors for longer hospitalization duration. The mean age of the included patients was 78.27 (± 6.56) years; 71 patients (73.20%) were female. Ten fractures (10.30%) were classified as open and 49 (50.50%) as a luxation type fracture. Fifty-nine patients (60.80%) were hospitalized after admission to the emergency department. External fixation was performed in 34 patients (35.10%) and served as bridge to definitive fixation in 29 patients (85.30%). The mean total hospital length of stay of all patients was 7.04 (± 6.58) days. Multivariate regression analysis demonstrated that the use of external fixation (p < .001) and the postoperative discharge destination (p < .001) were independently associated with a prolonged hospital stay. External fixation and discharge destination were independent risk factors for a prolonged hospital stay in elderly patients with a fragility fracture.

Outcomes after primary ankle arthrodesis in recent fractures of the distal end of the tibia in the elderly: a systematic review

PURPOSES

Management of distal tibia fractures in the elderly is complex. The results of conservative treatments may be disappointing and primary ankle arthrodesis is now regularly offered as an alternative. In this study, we aimed to review the outcomes of primary ankle arthrodesis for distal tibia fracture in the elderly.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review of the literature, from the Cochrane, MEDLINE, and Embase databases, on studies published in English and in French between 1950 and 2020. Only studies reporting the clinical results, the function, or the complications of primary ankle arthrodesis after ankle fracture in the elderly were included.

RESULTS

We included nine studies. The total number of patients was 229: 21% of them (50/229) sustained open fractures and 41% (95/229) had three or more comorbidities. All the patients underwent a tibio-talo-calcaneal arthrodesis with a retrograde transplantar intramedullary nailing (TIMN): short nail in 52% (151/229) and long nail in 48% (78/229) of the cases. At a mean follow-up comprised between six and 21 months, 94.5% of patients (190/201) achieved bone union, 87% (123/140) recovered an ankle range of motion close to their pre-operative status, 19% (40/211) had a complication, and 11.3% (24/211) required a revision. The use of a short nail resulted in a higher rate of peri-implant complication (2%) as well as a higher rate of revision (12.4%).

CONCLUSION

Primary ankle arthrodesis in recent fractures of the distal end of the tibia in the elderly frequently results in satisfactory results. The use of a long nail may be associated with a lower rate of implant specific complications.

Acute Hindfoot Nailing for Ankle Fractures: A Systematic Review of Indications and Outcomes

OBJECTIVES

To assess the complication rate of hindfoot nailing of acute fractures involving the tibiotalar joint, and mortality, patient-reported outcome measures, and return to preinjury activities.

DATA SOURCES

MEDLINE; EMBASE.

STUDY SELECTION

A systematic literature search for articles in English was completed using MEDLINE and EMBASE databases on April 23, 2020. Original research articles that assessed patients with acute intra-articular fractures of the ankle joint (malleolar ankle fractures and/or pilon fractures) that were treated with a locked hindfoot intramedullary nail, inserted retrograde through the plantar surface of the foot, were selected for inclusion. Case reports (≤4 patients), studies with nonlocked implants, and non-English studies were excluded.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS

A validated data extraction form was used, which included study demographics (authors, journal, date of publication, and study design), patient characteristics, implant type, and reported outcomes. Risk of bias for each included study was evaluated using the Institute of Health Economics Quality Appraisal Checklist for case series and the Risk of Bias in randomized trials tool, where appropriate. The best evidence was summarized and weighted mean values were provided when appropriate.

RESULTS

Ten case series and one randomized controlled trial were included. The overall quality of studies was poor with considerable bias. The majority of studies included elderly patients (weighted mean age 75.5 years) with diabetes (42% of patients). Overall complication rate was 16% with an 8% major complication rate (deep infection, malunion, nonunion, implant failure) and an overall infection rate of 6.2%. Pooled mortality rate was 27% with fracture union rates from 88% to 100%. Mean proportion of patients able to return to preinjury level of activity was 85%.

CONCLUSIONS

Hindfoot nailing of acute ankle and pilon fractures in elderly patients and patients with diabetes is associated with complication rates comparable with other methods of fixation. Issues with elimination of subtalar joint motion and implant complications secondary to poor implant fixation persist. The literature to date has composed of primarily Level IV studies with considerable bias. Further research is necessary to clarify the role of hindfoot nailing of acute ankle and pilon fractures.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Increasing age and modifiable comorbidities are associated with short-term complications after open reduction and internal fixation of ankle fractures

BACKGROUND

Ankle fractures are common orthopedic injuries with complication rates fixation of up to 40%. Limited evidence exists in the literature regarding complications in the elderly population, and moreover, these studies frequently define elderly arbitrarily at 60-65 years old. The purpose of the present study was to utilize a large, validated database to evaluate whether there is an inflection point of age when postoperative complications after an ankle fracture significantly increase.

METHODS

A retrospective review of all patients in the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database who underwent fixation of an ankle fracture between 2012 and 2018 was performed. Patients were identified within the database using the Current Procedural Terminology codes. Appropriate statistical analysis was performed with p value less than 0.05 considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

A total of 27,633 fractures were including and comprised of 221 posterior malleolar, 1567 medial malleolar, 8495 lateral malleolar, 10,175 bimalleolar, and 7175 trimalleolar. A total of 1545 complications were encountered (5.6%). There was a statistically significant association between increasing age and complications (OR = 1.03; p < 0.001). Further analysis shows the largest spike in complications within the age 78 + bracket. There were no overall interaction effects between age and fracture subtype (p = 0.223).

CONCLUSION

ORIF of ankle fractures is a common orthopedic procedure performed on patients of all ages, with complications ranging in severity. In order to best counsel patients on their individual postoperative risks, large datasets are often necessary to prognosticate. This study found that postoperative complications increase with advanced age. The incidence of complications did not spike for patients around the age of 65, but rather followed an incremental linear pattern with the largest increase in odds ratio occurring at age 78 and above. Complication rate was not associated with specific fracture type based off of ICD codes.

[Ankle fractures in older patients : What should we do differently?]

As a result of the demographic developments ankle fractures in older patients are part of routine trauma surgery. Due to comorbidities, such as diabetes mellitus, reduced bone quality and limited compliance in follow-up treatment, these fractures are prone to complications. The primary goal in the treatment of older patients with ankle fractures is to maintain mobility. In contrast to young patients most fractures are unstable pronation-abduction injuries. In the diagnostics the recognition and optimization of factors influencing the outcome, such as the blood perfusion and the generous use of computed tomography (CT) are recommended. As in the case of younger patients, conservative treatment is reserved for stable fracture forms and, if there are contraindications, should also be initiated in the case of unstable injuries. The choice of approaches is different for surgical treatment, which is adapted to the soft tissues, if necessary minimally invasive and increasingly carried out by a posterolateral approach. The initial transfixation can reduce soft tissue problems. Special surgical techniques and implants that provide a high level of stability, such as dorsal plate positioning, hook plates, angular stable plate systems and intramedullary systems as well as additional options, such as tibia pro fibula constructs are used. Primary retrograde nail arthrodesis is reserved as a salvage procedure only for exceptional cases. As part of the follow-up treatment, an interdisciplinary approach with respect for and optimization of concomitant diseases seems to make sense.

Osteoporotic ankle fractures: A narrative review of management options

The management of Osteoporotic ankle fractures is still considered to be a challenge by many surgeons. One of the issues seems to be a lack of data focused on this special subgroup, with very little evidence of good quality. We did a narrative review of the literature in an attempt to identify the magnitude of the problem and to evaluate the evidence in support of management options.The current review of the literature has brought to light some interesting facts. Despite limited data there seems to be an in increase in the incidence of these fractures. Although we could not demonstrate any clear distinction between geriatric and osteoporotic ankle fractures from the available literature; it is clear that all geriatric fractures are not necessarily osteoporotic and neither is the reverse true. The evidence to associate osteoporotic ankle fractures with poor outcomes is weak, and factors other than osteoporosis may have a stronger influence. From this analysis, we could not establish a higher incidence of implant failure for this specific fracture group, although many modifications in technique have been proposed due to the fear of fixation failure. Hook plating and Tibia-pro fibula fixation have weak evidence in support, but posterior fibular plating is preferred due to soft tissue protection. There is weak evidence in support of Locking plates for these fractures, as publications focused on this are limited; nevertheless some advantages have been documented. Augmentation by calcium based bone graft substitutes has been reported to improve pull out strengths of screws, but again the evidence of its role in Osteoportic fractures is limited. Fibular nailing has been proposed with specific advantages in osteoporotic fibular fractures, but the concept is new and it is indicated only in a select a subgroup of cases. Some evidence exists for the use of trans-articular nails in geriatric subgroups with limited pre-injury mobility, but the technique has to be used with caution to prevent other complications.

INFERENCE

More data needs to be accumulated before clear guidelines for management of osteoporotic ankle factures are defined; however the current literature supports the need for modifications in standard ankle facture fixation methods to improve outcomes.

Osteoporotic Distal Fibula Fractures in the Elderly: How To Fix Them

Osteoporotic fractures of the distal fibula in elderly patients is a challenge to manage. Non-operative management has a poor outcome so operative management is preferred. There are a variety of options for operative management such as locked plate systems, anti-glide plate construct, dual plating constructs, fibula nail, plate with tibial pro-fibular screws, and injectable bone cement (polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), calcium phosphate). However, no clear guidelines exist for the operative management of osteoporotic distal fibula fractures. The surgeon should detect osteoporotic fractures early to make the best use of resources and avoid complications such as implant failure.

Operative treatment of geriatric ankle fractures with conventional or locking plates. A retrospective case-control study

BACKGROUND

The incidence of geriatric ankle fractures continues to rise due to demographic changes. While locking plates have become standard implants for injuries of other body regions, clinical studies on their use for geriatric ankle fractures are rare.

METHODS

Therefore, a retrospective case-control study, including 333 patients with a mean age of 73.5 years was performed. 263 patients underwent operative fixation with one- third tubular plates and 70 were treated with locking plates. Early outcomes and complication rates of locking plates as compared with conventional one- third tubular plates are described.

RESULTS

In the present study, patients treated with locking plates were older and suffered from more severe fracture patterns. In addition, these patients had more severe comorbidities. Treatment with conventional or locking plate fixation resulted in a comparable complication and revision rate. A matched pair analysis showed significantly more complications and required revision surgeries and a trend towards more implant failures in the group that underwent conventional plating.

CONCLUSIONS

Therefore, we conclude that precontoured locking plates represent an appropriate treatment option for severe ankle fractures in patients suffering from relevant co-morbidities. Prospective randomized trials are warranted to prove superiority of locking plates for treatment of geriatric ankle fractures. Level 3: Retrospective case- control study.

Transarticular tibiotalocalcaneal nailing versus open reduction and internal fixation for treatment of the elderly ankle fracture: protocol for a multicentre, prospective, randomised controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Ankle fractures are common in the elderly population. Surgical fixation is technically challenging and often results in complications due to high rates of osteoporosis and vascular disease. Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) often requires prolonged periods of non-weight bearing increasing the risks of complications. Tibiotalocalcaneal (TTC) nailing has been suggested as an alternative to ORIF which allows immediate weight bearing, and is suggested to result in fewer complications. This study aims to compare the two surgical techniques in the elderly population with ankle fractures.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

The study will be a multicentre, prospective, randomised controlled trial comparing ORIF to TTC nailing in 110 patients with ankle fractures aged 50 or above with a Charlson Comorbidity Index of greater than or equal to four. Participants and assessors will not be blinded to intervention. The primary outcome measure will be overall complication rate. Secondary outcomes include length of hospital stay, mobility at discharge, discharge destination, the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society Ankle-Hindfoot score, the Olerud-Molander Ankle Score, mortality rate, rate of secondary surgical interventions and number of blood transfusions required postoperatively. Our null hypothesis is that there is no clinically significant difference in the primary outcome measure between the two treatment groups.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The study has been approved by Metro South Hospital and Health Services Human Research Ethics Committee (EC00167) (reference number HREC/17/QPAH/351).

DISCUSSION

Completion of this trial will provide evidence on the effectiveness of TTC nailing versus ORIF in treatment of the elderly ankle fracture. If TTC nailing is found to result in superior outcomes, this trial has the capacity to change current clinical practice.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ACTRN12617001588381;Pre-results andU1111-1203-1704.

Better is the foe of good: Outcome of operatively treated ankle fractures in the elderly

BACKGROUND

Ankle fractures are the second most common fractures of the lower extremities. Nonetheless, no standardized treatment protocol for unstable ankle fractures of the elderly exists today. Choices to treat ankle fractures are debated controversially, including (1) conservative treatment, (2) open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), and (3) primary hind-foot arthrodesis. This retrospective study aimed to examine the healing result in patients treated by ORIF after unstable ankle fractures.

METHODS

The study was designed as a retrospective comparative series. The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score was followed to assess the postsurgical outcome. Data was obtained from 66 patients younger than 65 (median age, 42 years; range, 18-63) and 28 patients aged 65 or older (median age, 71 years; range, 65-81). The mean follow-up period for the younger-than-65 group was 48 months; for patients older than 65, it was 49 months.

RESULTS

An AOFAS score of 86.4 in the older and 92.4 in the younger group was determined, p-value<0.05. Elderly patients suffered from significantly more open-ankle fractures and comorbidities than the younger group did, p-value<0.05 each. The duration of hospital stay and the time needed to reach sufficient self-mobilization were both significantly different between the two groups, p-value<0.05.

CONCLUSION

ORIF treatment of ankle fractures resulted in good functional assessment after a mean follow-up of 49 months in the elderly. Pre-fracture health condition positively affected the healing results in younger patients. This study confirms the basic AO Foundation principles for good postsurgical results.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, retrospective comparative series.

The role of intramedullary fixation in ankle fractures - A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Ankle fractures are one of the most commonly occurring fractures in the elderly population. The overall incidence has been reported to be up to 184 fractures per 100,000 persons per year, of which 20-30% occur in the elderly. Medical co-morbidities, osteoporosis, suboptimal skin quality and poor toleration of non-weight bearing status all contribute to difficulties in managing these injuries in this population. Intramedullary implants are advantageous as they utilise smaller incisions, minimise soft tissue disruption and may allow early weight bearing. This systematic review aims to analyse the use of both fibula nails and talo-tibial-calcaneal (TTC) implants in the management of fragility ankle fractures.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review of the literature using the online databases Medline and EMBASE on 26th December 2015. Only studies assessing ankle fractures that were treated with either an intramedullary fibula nail or TTC implant were included. Studies must have reported complications, patient mobility status or a functional outcome measure. Studies were excluded if the intramedullary device utilised was an adjunct to plate fixation or where a variety of surgical treatments were included in the study. The included studies were appraised with respect to a validated quality assessment scale.

RESULTS

Our search strategy produced 350 studies although only 17 studies met inclusion criteria; ten assessed a fibula nail and seven assessed a standard hindfoot nail, a TTC implant. 15 studies were case series, the overall quality of the studies was low and only one randomised controlled trial was reviewed. The mean Olerud and Molander Ankle Score for fibula nail studies ranged from 58 to 97 and the complication rate from 0 to 22%. Two comparative studies reported a statistically significant increase in complication rate with plate fixation but similar functional outcomes. Studies assessing TTC implants reported a mean Olerud and Molander Ankle Score of 50-62 and complication rate from 18 to 22.6%.

CONCLUSION

The studies reviewed suggest that fibula nails may be capable of producing similar functional outcomes with lower rates of complications to plate fixation. TTC implants produce lower functional outcomes but this may be acceptable in a subgroup of patients at high risk or with reduced pre-injury mobility. However, the low quality of evidence reviewed, the variation in patients included, implant used and outcome scores measured restricts the ability to draw definitive conclusions. Further comparative studies are required to explore the role of these implants further.

Unstable fragility fractures of the ankle in the elderly: Transarticular Steinmann pin or external fixation

INTRODUCTION

Because of poor skin conditions and comorbidity, open reduction and internal fixation in ankle fractures is frequently contra-indicated in the elderly. This study reports the results of two temporary fixation types in fragility fractures in the older patient: transarticular Steinmann pin fixation and external fixation.

METHODS

Patients aged over 60 treated with a Steinmann pin or external fixation were retrospectively included. Patient, fracture and treatment characteristics were collected.

RESULTS

Fifteen patients were included. Nine were managed using a Steinmann pin and six by external fixation. All reached fracture consolidation. Patients treated with a Steinmann pin underwent a median of 2 operations and the pin was left in situ for 80 days. Three patients suffered from superficial wound infection. X-ray showed malreduction in 67% and only two patients returned to pre-injury mobility. A median of 2 operations with 32 fixation days was reported in the external fixation group. This group showed one deep infection. In 50% there was malreduction, one patient experienced disability in ambulation at the end of treatment.

CONCLUSION

Both techniques show few complications, but have, as expected, poor results in fracture reduction and functional outcome. External fixation and subsequent internal fixation could result in better functional outcome.

Management of ankle fractures in the elderly

The incidence and severity of ankle fractures in elderly patients is increasing steadily. These injuries are challenging to treat and prone to complications.

Individual fracture treatment is tailored depending on bone quality, skin conditions, comorbidities, and functional demand of the patient. This article provides a review of current techniques to obtain stable fixation despite poor bone quality. To avoid complications, it is imperative to consider and treat comorbidities such as diabetes and osteoporosis.

In the absence of severe systemic comorbidities, the results after open reduction and internal fixation of malleolar fractures in patients above and below 60 years of age are nearly identical, while nonoperative treatment of unstable fractures leads to significantly inferior outcomes. Therefore, the general indications for surgery in elderly patients should not differ from those in younger patients.

However, it is essential to detect severe conditions such as Charcot neuro-osteoarthropathy because these require a completely different treatment regime, and standard internal fixation will invariably fail in these patients.

Cite this article: Rammelt S. Management of ankle fractures in the elderly. EFORT Open Rev 2016;1:239-246. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.1.000023.

Management of Osteoporotic and Neuropathic Ankle Fractures in the Elderly

Purpose of Review

Treatment of osteoporotic and neuropathic ankle fractures in the elderly is challenging. The purpose of this paper is to review recent publications on this topic and to identify the optimal treatment for these fractures.

Recent Findings

Treatment consists of a variety of conservative or operative options all with advantages and disadvantages as described in this review. Little research has been published that specifically focuses on elderly patients with ankle fractures. Operative treatment has a high complication rate. Multiple comorbidities are predictors for complications.

Summary

An optimal treatment could not be distilled but based on the available literature, a general treatment algorithm is proposed. Since the elderly typically are accompanied by multiple comorbidities as well as impaired mobility, the physician should focus not only on treating the fractured ankle but also on the patient as a whole. Further research on this specific topic is needed.

Fragility fractures of the ankle in the elderly: Open reduction and internal fixation versus tibio-talo-calcaneal nailing: Short-term results of a prospective randomized-controlled study

INTRODUCTION

The management of ankle fractures in the elderly remains unpredictable, secondary to their various co-morbidities. Although tibiotalocalcaneal (TTC) nailing has been an effective option for ankle arthrodesis due to ankle arthritis or Charcot arthropathy there are few reports regarding the use of TTC nail for the treatment of ankle fractures.

PURPOSE

Aim of this study was to compare the results of ORIF versus TTC nailing for the treatment of unstable ankle fractures in the elderly. We hypothesized that the elderly may benefit from TTC nailing, as it allows the patient to be mobilized immediately after surgery and minimizes the risk of wound or bone problems.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This was a prospective, randomized-controlled, comparative study. Between 2009 and 2015, 43 patients were treated with a TTC nail (Group A) and 44 with ORIF (Group B). The Olerud-Molander ankle score was obtained and intraoperative-postoperative complications, length of hospital stay, mobility status and reoperation rate were recorded. The nail fixation was performed with the TrigenR hindfoot nail after closed reduction. ORIF was performed, using a 1/3 tubular plate and 3.5mm screws for the lateral malleolus and two 4.0 mm cannulated screws for the medial.

RESULTS

Mortality rate at one year was 13.9% for Group A and 18.1% for Group B. Mean follow-up was 14 months (12-18m). There were no intraoperative complications. Three complications in Group A (8.1%) and twelve (33.3%) in Group B were encountered postoperatively (p<0.05). There was significant shorter hospital stay in Group A (5.2±3.1d) than in Group B (8.4±5.2d). In Group A, 28 patients returned to their pre-injury mobility status (75.6%) while 9 declined one level of the mobility scale (24.3%). In Group B, 26 patients remained at the same mobility level (72.2%) and 10 declined one level (27.7%). There was no significant difference between the postoperative OMAS scores in the two Groups (56.9±9.85 and 56.6±9.3 respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

We believe that TTC nailing is a safe and effective method of treatment of unstable ankle fractures in the elderly because it has a low risk of complications and restores function and mobility allowing an immediate return to full weight-bearing.

Does a polyaxial-locking system confer benefits for osteosynthesis of the distal fibula: A cadaver study

BACKGROUND

In plate osteosynthesis involving the distal fibula, antiglide plating is superior to lateral plating in terms of the biomechanical properties. The goal of this study was to examine whether polyaxial-locking implants confer additional benefits in terms of biomechanical stability.

METHODS

Seven pairs of human cadaveric fibulae were subjected to osteotomy in a standardized manner to simulate an uncomplicated Weber B fracture. The generated fractures were managed with a dorsolateral antiglide plate. To this end, one fibula of the pair was subjected to non-locking plating and the other to polyaxial-locking plating. Biomechanical tests included quantification of the primary bending and torsional stiffness. In addition, the number of cycles to failure in cyclic bending loading were determined and compared. Bone mineral density was measured in all specimens.

RESULTS

Bone mineral density was comparable in both groups. Primary stability was higher in the polyaxial-locking group under torsional loading, and higher in the non-locking group under bending loading. The differences, however, were not statistically significant. All specimens except for one fixed-angle construct failed the cyclic loading test. The number of cycles to failure did not differ significantly between polyaxial-locking and non-locking fixation.

CONCLUSION

In a cadaveric Weber B fracture model, we observed no differences in biomechanical properties between polyaxial-locking and non-locking fixation using an antiglide plate. Based on the biomechanical considerations, no recommendation can be made regarding the choice of the implant. Further biomechanical and clinical studies are required.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Information on the behavior of polyaxial-locking plates is relevant to surgeons performing internal fixation of distal fibula fractures.

Clinical audit of ankle fracture management in the elderly

Introduction

Ankle fractures in the osteoporotic patient are challenging injuries to manage, due to a combination of poor soft tissue, peripheral vascular disease and increased bone fragility, often resulting in more complex fracture patterns. I aim to audit current practice and introduce change by producing recommendations to help improve longer-term functional outcomes.

Patients and methods

A retrospective 3-week audit was conducted reviewing results of ankle fracture management in 50 patients aged between 50 and 80 years. Patients admitted for either manipulation under anaesthesia (MUA)/application of cast or open-reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) were considered. Medical notes, including discharge summaries, were used for data extraction.

Results

From the 50 patients included within the cohort, forty-two patients (84%) underwent surgical intervention, with eight patients (16%) managed non-operatively. Malunion (63%) and failed fracture fixation (25%) were more commonly reported in patients managed non-operatively. Surgery performed by trainee surgeons was unlikely to prolong theatre time with no statistical significance observed with the consultant led cohort (p = 0.380). However, incidence of fracture malunion and failed fixation were significantly higher following surgery without consultant supervision in the junior trainee group (p = 0.043).

Conclusions

Poor bone quality and associated co-morbidity can present technical difficulties when managing patients surgically. However, our results have shown considerably improved anatomical reduction rates following internal fixation in eligible patients, irrespective of age or gender.

•

The audit aimed to clarify whether surgical management of ankle fractures in the elderly was favoured.

•

Malunion (63%) and failed fracture fixation (25%) were more commonly reported in patients managed non-operatively.

•

Our results have shown considerably improved anatomical reduction rates following internal fixation in eligible patients.

[Open reduction and internal fixation of displaced ankle fractures in patients older than 65 years of age. Analysis of results at five-year follow-up]

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the long term outcome of surgical treatment for displaced ankle fractures in patients over 65 years of age, and determine the influence of age and comorbidity in the occurrence of complications.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

Retrospective descriptive study on 40 patients, with a mean age of 72.7 years (range: 65-88), who underwent open reduction and internal fixation for the treatment of a displaced ankle fracture. The patients were clinically evaluated according to the AOFAS criteria (functional outcome). Data collection also included the presence of comorbidities, radiographic evaluation, the occurrence of postoperative complications, and a questionnaire on satisfaction with treatment received. The mean follow-up was 5.73 years.

RESULTS

At the end of the follow-up, according to the AOFAS criteria, excellent/good results were obtained in 75% of the patients (n=30), with 38 patients referring to be quite/very happy with the result. Wound skin problems and metal work migration were the most common post-operative complications. No statistically significant relationship was found between increased age or a high number of comorbidities and an increased occurrence of postoperative complications (p>.05). Only 3 patients needed postoperative rehabilitation, and 95% of the patients (n=38) returned to their activities of normal daily living.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgical treatment of displaced ankle fractures in the elderly patient facilitates the early resumption of the activities of daily living.

Ankle fractures in the elderly: an overlooked burden

Ankle fractures in the elderly are a complex under-recognized burden which require a multidisciplinary approach to management. This article discusses the holistic approach required, including the up-to-date surgical management options and the areas for future development.

External fixation in the elderly

Orthopaedic trauma is an increasingly common problem in geriatric patients. As demands of daily life and recreational activities are increasing in these patients, surgeons need to be able to manage geriatric fractures to achieve good functional results. Reduced bone quality in the elderly presents a considerable challenge and may preclude the use of established surgical stabilisation techniques that are performed in younger trauma patients. Furthermore, pre-existing medical conditions and considerable comorbidities in the elderly could complicate standard surgical procedures that younger patients would be offered. In this respect, application of external fixators represents a validated, minimally-invasive treatment opportunity. This review article summarises the use of external fixation in geriatric trauma patients for wrist fractures, proximal femoral fractures, pelvic fractures, and ankle fractures. Modern modifications, like pin coating with hydroxyapatite, and aspects of pin care will be discussed.

Fragility fractures of the ankle in the frail elderly patient

Conventional methods of treating ankle fractures in the elderly are associated with high rates of complication. We describe the results of treating these injuries in 48 frail elderly patients with a long calcaneotalotibial nail.

The mean age of the group was 82 years (61 to 96) and 41 (85%) were women. All were frail, with multiple medical comorbidities and their mean American Society of Anaesthesiologists score was 3 (3 to 4). None could walk independently before their operation. All the fractures were displaced and unstable; the majority (94%, 45 of 48) were low-energy injuries and 40% (19 of 48) were open.

The overall mortality at six months was 35%. Of the surviving patients, 90% returned to their pre-injury level of function. The mean pre- and post-operative Olerud and Molander questionnaire scores were 62 and 57 respectively. Complications included superficial infection (4%, two of 48); deep infection (2%, one of 48); a broken or loose distal locking screw (6%, three of 48); valgus malunion (4%, two of 48); and one below-knee amputation following an unsuccessful vascular operation. There were no cases of nonunion, nail breakage or peri-prosthetic fracture.

A calcaneotalotibial nail is an excellent device for treating an unstable fracture of the ankle in the frail elderly patient. It allows the patient to mobilise immediately and minimises the risk of bone or wound problems. A long nail which crosses the isthmus of the tibia avoids the risk of peri-prosthetic fracture associated with shorter devices.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014; 96-B:817–22.

Internal fixation of the fibula in ankle fractures: a prospective, randomized and comparative study: plating versus nailing

AIM

Open reduction and internal plate fixation of the fibula is the gold standard treatment for ankle fractures. The aim of this study was to perform a prospective randomized study to compare bone union, complications and functional results of two types of internal fixation of the fibula (plating and the Epifisa FH intramedullary nail).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Inclusion criteria were: closed fractures, isolated displaced fractures of the lateral malleolus, inter- and supra-tubercular bimalleolar fractures, and trimalleolar fractures. This study included 71 patients (mean age 53 ± 19): plate fixation group (n=35) and intramedullary nail fixation group (n=36). In seven cases, intramedullary nailing was technically impossible and was converted to plate fixation (the analysis of this sub-group was performed independently). Two patients died and two patients were lost to follow-up. The final comparative series included 32 cases of plate fixation and 28 cases of intramedullary nail fixation. Union, postoperative complications and Kitaoka and Olerud-Molander functional scores were analyzed after one year of follow-up.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in the rate of union (P=0.5605) between the two types of fixation. There were significantly fewer complications (7% versus 56%) and better functional scores (96 versus 82 for the Kitaoka score; 97 versus 83 for the Olerud-Molander score) with intramedullary nailing than with plate fixation.

CONCLUSION

Intramedullary nailing of the lateral malleolus in non-comminuted ankle fractures without syndesmotic injury is a reproducible technique with very few complications that provides better functional results than plate fixation.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

II (randomized prospective study).

Early complications of surgery in operative treatment of ankle fractures in those over 60: a review of 186 cases

INTRODUCTION

Ankle fractures are among the most common injuries of the lower extremity encountered by orthopaedic surgeons. With increasing population age and osteoporosis, the prevalence of these fractures is expected to increase. The aim of this study was to evaluate complications and the need for revision surgery after the surgical treatment of ankle fractures in patients over 60 years of age. We report the outcomes of 186 consecutive patients who underwent operative treatment for rotational ankle fractures in our institution from 2007 to 2010.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data were collected retrospectively for the purpose of this study. The outcome measures included minor complications which did not need further surgical intervention, that is, superficial wound infections, delayed wound healing, prominent implants and skin irritation, and major complications that prompted surgical intervention (due to deep wound infection, loosening of implants or loss of fixation). Medical complications were also recorded. Long-term complications (postoperative osteoarthritis) were not assessed in this study. Logistic regression analysis and Fisher's exact test were used to identify factors predicting higher risk of complications.

RESULTS

The average age was 70.67 years (standard deviation (SD) 7.40). There were 132 (71%) females and 54 (29%) males. The overall rate of complications was 21.5% with 10.8% of them being major complications prompting surgical intervention for wound washout, removal of implants and revision of fixation. Statistical analysis showed that smoking, age, diabetes, local factors (osteopaenia, peripheral neuropathy, peripheral vascular disease, lymphoedema and venous insufficiency) and modified Charlson score were significantly associated with occurrence of complications. Gender had a marginally significant effect. Coronary artery disease and fracture type (Weber classification) did not have a significant effect on the outcome.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Our data show that surgical treatment of ankle fractures in the elderly is associated with a high rate of complications. The factors predicting a high rate of complications include smoking, age, diabetes, local factors and a higher modified Charlson score. It is important to bear the factors in mind whilst deciding whether surgical treatment should be used in the treatment of such fractures in the elderly and explains these to patients at the time of obtaining consent. Further large-scale studies are needed to validate the predictive value of the suggested modified Charlson score.

Ankle Injury Management (AIM): design of a pragmatic multi-centre equivalence randomised controlled trial comparing Close Contact Casting (CCC) to Open surgical Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF) in the treatment of unstable ankle fractures in patients over 60 years

BACKGROUND

Ankle fractures account for 9% of all fractures with a quarter of these occurring in adults over 60 years. The short term disability and long-term consequences of this injury can be considerable. Current opinion favours open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) over non-operative treatment (fracture manipulation and the application of a standard moulded cast) for older people. Both techniques are associated with complications but the limited published research indicates higher complication rates of fracture malunion (poor position at healing) with casting. The aim of this study is to compare ORIF with a modification of existing casting techniques, Close Contact Casting (CCC). We propose that CCC may offer an equivalent functional outcome to ORIF and avoid the risks associated with surgery.

METHODS/DESIGN

This study is a pragmatic multi-centre equivalence randomised controlled trial. 620 participants will be randomised to receive ORIF or CCC after sustaining an isolated displaced unstable ankle fracture. Participants will be recruited from a minimum of 20 National Health Service (NHS) acute hospitals throughout England and Wales. Participants will be aged over 60 years and be ambulatory prior to injury. Follow-up will be at six weeks and six months after randomisation. The primary outcome is the Olerud & Molander Ankle Score, a functional patient reported outcome measure, at 6 months. Follow-up will also include assessments of mobility, ankle range of movement, health related quality of life and complications. The six-month follow-up will be conducted face-to-face by an assessor blinded to the allocated intervention. A parallel economic evaluation will consider both a health service and a broader societal perspective including the individual and their family. In order to explore patient experience of their treatment and recovery, a purposive sample of 40 patients will also be interviewed using a semi-structured interview schedule between 6-10 weeks post treatment.

DISCUSSION

This multicentre study was open to recruitment July 2010 and recruitment is due to be completed in December 2013.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN04180738.

Osteoporotic ankle fractures: an approach to operative management

The incidence of osteoporosis is increasing as the elderly population grows. Because these patients remain active, fragility fractures of the ankle are becoming more common. The literature indicates a relatively high complication rate for non-operative management of ankle fractures in this patient cohort, leading surgeons to face challenges unique to patients with poor bone and skin quality. This article discusses techniques to address osteoporotic ankle fractures and reviews the current literature relevant to this issue.

Using decision analysis to assess comparative clinical efficacy of surgical treatment of unstable ankle fractures

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

The development of a robust treatment algorithm for ankle fractures based on well-established stability criteria has been shown to be prognostic with respect to treatment and outcomes. In parallel with the development of improved understanding of the biomechanical rationale of ankle fracture treatment has been an increased emphasis on assessing the effectiveness of medical and surgical interventions. The purpose of this study was to investigate the use of using decision analysis in the assessment of the cost effectiveness of operative treatment of ankle fractures based on the existing clinical data in the literature.

METHODS

Using the data obtained from a previous structured review of the ankle fracture literature, decision analysis trees were constructed using standard software. The decision nodes for the trees were based on ankle fracture stability criteria previously published. The outcomes were assessed by calculated Quality-Adjusted Life Years (QALYs) assigned to achieving normal ankle function, developing posttraumatic arthritis, or sustaining a postoperative infection. Sensitivity analysis was undertaken by varying the patient's age, incidence of arthritis, and incidence or infection.

RESULTS

Decision analysis trees captured the essential aspects of clinical decision making in ankle fracture treatment in a clinically useful manner. In general, stable fractures yielded better outcomes with nonoperative treatment, whereas unstable fractures had better outcomes with surgery. These were consistent results over a wide range of postoperative infection rates. Varying the age of the patient did not qualitatively change the results. Between the ages of 30 and 80 years, surgery yielded higher expected QALYs than nonoperative care for unstable fractures, and generated lower QALYs than nonoperative care for stable fractures. Using local cost estimates for operative and nonoperative treatment, the incremental cost of surgery for unstable fractures was less than $40,000 per QALY (the usual cutoff for the determination of cost effectiveness) for patients aged up to 90 years.

DISCUSSION/CONCLUSIONS

Decision analysis is a useful methodology in developing treatment guidelines. Numerous previous studies have indicated superior clinical outcomes when unstable ankle fractures underwent operative reduction and stabilization. What has been lacking was an examination of the cost effectiveness of such an approach, particularly in older patients who have fewer expected years of life. In light of the evidence for satisfactory outcomes for surgery of severe ankle fractures in older people, the justification for operative intervention is an obvious question that can be asked in the current increasingly cost-conscious environment. Using a decision-tree decision analysis structured around the stability-based ankle fracture classification system, in conjunction with a relatively simple cost effectiveness analysis, this study was able to demonstrate that surgical treatment of unstable ankle fractures in elderly patients is in fact cost effective.

SIGNIFICANCE

The clinical implication of the present analysis is that these existing treatment protocols for ankle fracture treatment are also cost effective when quality of life outcome measures are taken into account.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Economic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Operative management of unstable ankle fractures in the elderly: our institutional experience

Ankle fractures represent an exceptionally common injury within the elderly population. The total incidence of ankle fractures has been reported to be up to 184 fractures per 100,000 persons per year, of which 20 to 30 percent occur in the elderly. This study reports the results of operative management of ankle fractures in the elderly, with regard to functional outcome and complication rates. This was a retrospective, non-randomized observational study. Subjects were identified from a trauma registry kept in our Department and were tested for eligibility. Patients were then categorized into two groups according to their age: Group A included all patients less than 65 years of age and Group B included all patients over the age of 65. The outcome was measured using the AOFAS Ankle-Hindfoot score and a Linear analog scale. A total of 120 consecutive patients fulfilled the eligibility criteria and were included in our study (60 patients in each group). We detected statistically significant difference between the LAS score of the two groups (p=0.02), the alignment between the two groups (p=0.04) and the AOFAS score versus LAS score in Group B (p=0.03). Two patients from Group B had wound dehiscence, but finally their wounds healed uneventfully. We didn't observe any serious complications such as skin necrosis, deep infection, osteomyelitis and failure of metalwork. Our study suggests that the operative management of Weber B2 and B3 injuries can result in a favorable outcome. It is however of great importance that there are no delays in treatment, that the reduction is anatomical, that the fracture fixation is satisfactory and that the rehabilitation is commenced early.

Functional outcome following tibio-talar-calcaneal nailing for unstable osteoporotic ankle fractures

INTRODUCTION

Fragility fractures of the ankle are increasing in incidence. Such fractures typically occur from low-energy injuries but lead to disproportionately high levels of morbidity. Ankle fractures in this age group are managed conservatively in plaster or by open reduction and internal fixation. Both modalities have shown high rates of failure in terms of delayed union or mal-union together with perioperative complications such as implant failure and wound breakdown. The optimal treatment of these patients remains controversial.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to review the functional outcome of patients with ankle fragility fractures primarily managed using a tibio-talar-calcaneal nail (TTC).

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 31 consecutive patients primarily managed with a TCC nail for osteoporotic fragility fractures about the ankle. Data were collected via case notes, radiographic reviews and by clinical reviews at the outpatient clinic or a telephone follow-up. Information regarding patient characteristics, indication for operation, Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen (AO) fracture classification, operative and postoperative complications, time to radiographic union and current clinical state including Olerud and Molander scores were recorded (as a measure of ankle function).

RESULTS

Nine of 31 patients had died by the time of follow-up. Mean preoperative and postoperative Olerud and Molander scores were 56 and 45, respectively. There were no postoperative wound complications. Twenty-nine of 31 patients returned to the same level of mobility as pre-injury. There were three peri-prosthetic fractures managed successfully with nail removal and replacement or plaster cast. There were two nail failures, both in patients who mobilised using only a stick, which were managed by nail removal. Ten of 31 patients were not followed up radiographically due to either infirmity or death. Thirteen of 21 followed up radiographically had evidence of union and 8/21 had none. None, however, had clinical evidence of fracture nonunion.

CONCLUSION

The TTC nail can successfully be used to manage fragility fractures about the ankle in the elderly. Much like fractured neck of femur patients, who also have a high rate of mortality, this allows immediate mobilisation with minimal risk of wound complications. However, careful assessment must be made of each patient's mobility, as there is a significant incidence of device failure in the more active patient.

Management of high-energy foot and ankle injuries in the geriatric population

By the year 2035 almost 20% of the US population of 389 million people will be 65 years and older. What this group has, compared with aged populations in the past, is better health, more mobility, and more active lifestyles. From January 1989 through December 2010, a total of 494 elderly patients with 536 foot and ankle injuries were identified. Within this group, 237 (48%) patients with 294 injuries were sustained as a result of a high-energy mechanism. These mechanisms consisted of 170 motor vehicle accidents, 30 as a result of high (not ground level) energy falls, 2 from industrial accidents, and 35 classified as other, which included sports, blunt trauma, bicycle, airplane or boating accidents, crush injuries, and injuries resulting from a lawn mower. The injuries produced were 17 metatarsal fractures, 9 Lisfranc injuries, 10 midfoot (navicular, cuneiform, or cuboid) fractures, 23 talus fractures, 63 calcaneal fractures, 73 unimalleolar, bimalleolar, or trimalleolar ankle fractures, 45 pilon fractures, and 3 pure dislocations of the foot or ankle. Overall, 243 (83%) of these injuries underwent surgical fixation and data have shown that when surgery is used to manage high-energy injuries of the foot and ankle in the elderly individuals, the complications and outcomes are similar to those seen in younger patients. Therefore, the decision for surgical intervention for high-energy injuries of the foot and ankle should be based primarily on the injury pattern and not solely on the age of the patient.

Early protected weightbearing after open reduction internal fixation of ankle fractures

The present retrospective study assessed the complications and loss of reduction in 126 patients aged 16 years or older who bore weight in a short leg cast within 15 days after surgical repair of acute unilateral closed ankle fractures from January 1997 to December 2003. Fracture reduction was assessed on immediate postoperative and weightbearing digital radiographs at least 6 weeks after surgery. The medical records were reviewed for postoperative complications. Complete radiographs were available for 81 patients. The mean follow-up period was 171 (range 42 to 1275) days. The mean patient age was 50 years. Patients began walking an average of 8 days after surgery. From the medical record review, no cases of malunion or nonunion occurred. A total of 14 complications developed in 12 (9.5%) of 126 patients, including a delay in wound healing in 6, nerve paresthesia in 5, and hardware migration in 1. The patients aged 60 years or older had a slightly greater overall complication rate (6 of 38, p = .18). Patients who walked on postoperative day 1 had slightly more wound problems (2 of 19, p = .36). Of the 81 ankle fracture radiographs, 80 (98.8%) showed no displacement in fracture reduction on the final follow-up examination. One patient had a 2-mm loss of fracture reduction and was allowed to walk on postoperative day 1 (p = .09). These results support early protected weightbearing after operative treatment of closed isolated lateral malleolar and bimalleolar ankle fractures without syndesmotic involvement in patients of all ages.

Determinants of outcome in operatively and non-operatively treated Weber-B ankle fractures

INTRODUCTION

Treatment of ankle fractures is often based on fracture type and surgeon's individual judgment. Literature concerning the treatment options and outcome are dated and frequently contradicting. The aim of this study was to determine the clinical and functional outcome after AO-Weber B-type ankle fractures in operatively and conservatively treated patients and to determine which factors influenced outcome.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A retrospective cohort study in patients with a AO-Weber B-type ankle fracture. Patient, fracture and treatment characteristics were recorded. Clinical and functional outcome was measured using the Olerud-Molander Ankle Score (OMAS), the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society ankle-hindfoot score (AOFAS) and a Visual Analog Score (VAS) for overall satisfaction (range 0-10).

RESULTS

Eighty-two patients were treated conservatively and 103 underwent operative treatment. The majority was female. Most conservatively treated fractures were AO-Weber B1.1 type fractures. Fractures with fibular displacement (mainly AO type B1.2 and Lauge-Hansen type SER-4) were predominantly treated operatively. The outcome scores in the non-operative group were OMAS 93, AOFAS 98, and VAS 8. Outcome in this group was independently negatively affected by age, affected side, BMI, fibular displacement, and duration of plaster immobilization. In the surgically treated group, the OMAS, AOFAS, and VAS scores were 90, 97, and 8, respectively, with outcome negatively influenced by duration of plaster immobilization.

CONCLUSION

Treatment selection based upon stability and surgeon's judgment led to overall good clinical outcome in both treatment groups. Reducing the cast immobilization period may further improve outcome.

Augmented osteosynthesis of OTA 44-B fractures in older patients: a technique allowing early weightbearing

OBJECTIVES

To determine the effectiveness of an augmented technique of osteosynthesis in allowing early weightbearing in older patients with OTA 44-B (Danis-Weber B) fractures.

DESIGN

Case series.

SETTING

University Level I trauma center.

PATIENTS

Thirty-six patients, nonconsecutive, with OTA 44-B fractures.

INTERVENTION

Augmented internal fixation using an intramedullary wire, lateral plate, and screw augmentation with polymethylmethacrylate.

MAIN OUTCOME

Healed fracture with no loss of reduction.

SECONDARY OUTCOMES

American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society score; percentage of patients who returned to prefracture function.

RESULTS

All patients began weightbearing as tolerated in a removable brace at a mean of 13.5 days postoperatively. Thirty patients were available for follow-up at a minimum of 12 months (range, 12-14 months). All fractures healed with no loss of reduction. The mean American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society ankle-hindfoot score was 84.9 (range, 74-100), and 90% of patients returned to prefracture function. There were two infections, one in a 74-year-old diabetic woman and the other in a 92-year-old woman with pre-existing arterial insufficiency and a small ulcer over the tip of the second toe.

CONCLUSIONS

Augmented internal fixation consisting of intramedullary wire, lateral plate, and screw augmentation with polymethylmethacrylate may allow for very early weightbearing without risk of secondary loss of reduction or disruption of the ankle mortise in older patients with OTA 44-B (Danis-Weber B) malleolar fractures.

Operative fixation of unstable ankle fractures in patients aged over 80 years

INTRODUCTION

Controversy exists regarding the surgical treatment of unstable ankle fractures in the very elderly age group of over 80 years. However, the literature regarding the prognosis of surgery in this elderly group is limited. The purpose of our study was to evaluate the results of patients above 80 years old who underwent operative fixation for unstable ankle fractures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ninety-two consecutive patients, 80 females and 12 males, above 80 years of age had open reduction and internal fixation for unstable ankle fractures during the period of January 1998 to August 2007. The data was collected retrospectively from the case records and radiographs. The complications were noted and the risk factors for poor outcome were analyzed. The average age was 85.2 (range, 80.1 to 95.1) years. The minimum duration of followup was 9 months, with an average of 15 (range, 9 to 28) months.

RESULTS

The most common fracture pattern was Danis-Weber B type. The superficial wound infection rate was 7% (6 cases) and the deep infection rate was 4.6% (4 cases). The 30 day postoperative mortality was 5.4% (five cases). Eighty-six percent (75 out of 87 cases) were able to return back to their pre injury mobility at the last followup. Diabetes, dementia, peripheral vascular disease and smoking were found to be statistically significant risk factors associated with wound complications.

CONCLUSION

The results of operative fixation of unstable ankle fractures were encouraging with good functional recovery and return to pre injury mobility status in most cases.

Comparison of augmentation methods for internal fixation of osteoporotic ankle fractures

BACKGROUND

Internal fixation of osteoporotic ankle fractures is associated with failure of fixation. This study compared different augmentation methods biomechanically.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In nine paired fresh-frozen cadaver legs, an identical supination-external rotation type II ankle fracture was created. Fractures were stabilized using an eight-hole locking plate. In four pairs, two screws were inserted across the syndesmosis for purchase in the tibial metaphysis. One leg from each pair was randomly selected for injection of calcium sulphate-calcium phosphate graft into the screw holes. Each leg was mounted to an MTS machine in a custom loading frame. Axial cyclic loading to body weight was performed to measure displacement at the fracture site, followed by rotational loading to failure simulating a supination external rotation injury. Data were analyzed using a two-way paired t-test and ANOVA.

RESULTS

The specimens used had a mean bone mineral density of 0.49 +/- 0.15 (SD) g/cm(2), and a mean age of 83 +/- 12 years. In the biomechanical tests, there were no significant differences between augmented and non-augmented locking plates without the tibia-pro-fibula screws in axial stiffness (p = 0.10), external rotation angle at failure (p = 0.42), failure torque (p = 0.57), energy absorbed before failure (p = 0.47), and motion at the fracture site with cyclic axial loading (p = 0.15). There were no significant differences between augmented and non-augmented locking plates with the tibia-pro-fibula screws in the external rotation angle at failure (p = 0.83), failure torque (p = 0.58), and failure energy (p = 0.4). However, the overall strength of the fixation tended to increase with tibia-pro-fibula screws and augmentation.

CONCLUSION

Internal fixation of an osteoporotic lateral malleolar fracture using a locking plate and screws provided a construct comparable in strength to that augmented with calcium sulfate-calcium phosphate graft and/or tibia-pro-fibula screws.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Strategies to augment internal fixation of osteoporotic ankle fractures may minimize risk for failure of fixation and may enable early weight bearing mobilization and return to function in elderly patients.

Ankle fractures in the elderly: initial and long-term outcomes

BACKGROUND

Surgical management of ankle fractures will be an increasing part of the orthopaedic practice for aging adults. To date, there are few studies comparing outcomes after ankle fracture surgery between patients over and under 65 years. The purpose of this study was to evaluate short- and long-term outcomes after surgical treatment of isolated malleolar fractures in both the elderly and non-elderly population.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Charts and radiographs were reviewed for 25 patients over age 65 and 46 patients under age 65 who underwent operative treatment of an ankle fracture during a 2-year period. Postoperative complications and need for placement in a skilled nursing facility following discharge were noted. The SF-36 and the Olerud and Molander Ankle Score were completed. Mean duration of followup in patients greater than 65 was 27 months and 24 months for patients less than or equal to 65 years.

RESULTS

Patients over 65 had a higher number of postoperative complications (40% vs. 11%, p < 0.007), and required nursing home placement more frequently than patients under 65 (p < 0.0001). At long-term followup, the data showed no significant difference in patient reported physical outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Early postoperative outcomes after operative fixation of ankle fractures suggest significantly worse outcomes for patients over age 65. However, long-term function in the elderly was comparable to patients under age 65 in this sample. The elderly population had a significantly better mental composite score than the non-elderly.

The use of calcium sulfate and calcium phosphate composite graft to augment screw purchase in osteoporotic ankles

BACKGROUND

Screws placed in the distal fibula may not have satisfactory purchase during internal fixation of an osteoporotic ankle fracture. Tibia-pro-fibula screws that extend from the fibula into the distal tibial metaphysis provide additional purchase. The purpose of this study was to investigate if purchase of these screws can be enhanced further by injecting calcium sulfate and calcium phosphate composite graft into the drill holes prior to insertion of the screws.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Bone density was quantified using a DEXA scan in paired cadaver legs. One leg from each pair was randomly selected for injection of composite graft into the screw holes before insertion of the screws. Two screws were inserted through the fibula into the distal tibial metaphysis in each leg, at the level of the syndesmosis under fluoroscopy in a standardized fashion in an MTS machine.

RESULTS

After testing 4 pairs of cadaver legs, a statistically significant difference was noted in displacement (p = 0.018 distal, p = 0.0093 proximal), failure load, (p = 0.0185 distal, p = 0.0238 proximal), and failure energy (p = 0.0071 distal, p = 0.0115 proximal) between augmented and non-augmented screws, with the augmented screws being considerably stronger.

CONCLUSION

Screws augmented with composite graft provide significantly greater purchase in an osteoporotic fibular fracture model.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Composite graft augmented screws inserted into the distal tibia from the fibula may enhance the stability of internal fixation of an osteoporotic ankle fracture. This may enable earlier weightbearing and return to function which is important in elderly patients.

The treatment of unstable ankle fractures in patients over eighty years of age

BACKGROUND

The current study examined the outcomes of operative treatment of unstable ankle fractures in patients at least 80 years old at the time of injury.

METHODS

Of 2,682 patients who presented for treatment of ankle fractures, 17 patients met the study criteria. These patients had open reduction and internal fixation after sustaining 15 closed and two open unstable ankle fractures. There were 11 type B fractures and six type C fractures by the Danis-Weber classification, and 12 supination-external rotation and five pronation-external rotation fractures by the Laugen-Hansen classification systems.

RESULTS

When noncompliant patients who developed complications were removed from analysis, the fixation failure and deep infection rates were 0% each.

CONCLUSIONS

These results highlight the importance of patient compliance and non-weightbearing status in the treatment of ankle fractures in patients over 80 years.

Complications after ankle fracture in elderly patients

BACKGROUND

Controversy exists regarding the risks and benefits of ankle fracture treatment in elderly patients. The purpose of this study was to use the United States Medicare database to determine the complication rate for ankle fractures in elderly patients treated operatively and to compare it to fractures treated nonoperatively.

METHODS

We used the National Medicare Claims History System to study all enrollees who sustained ankle fractures between 1998 and 2001. A total of 33,704 patients were identified and their outcomes at numerous time points were evaluated. These outcomes included mortality, rate of repeat hospitalization, rate of medical and operative complications, and the rate of additional surgery. The predictor variables were either nonoperative or operative intervention. Covariates included patient age, gender, race, medical comorbidity status, and fracture type.

RESULTS

Patients treated nonoperatively had significantly higher mortality (p < 0.05) than those treated operatively at all time periods except for 30 days. However, patients treated operatively had significantly higher rehospitalization rates (p < 0.05) at all time periods studied. The medical and operative complication rates at all time periods were less than or equal to 2% for patients who had either operative or nonoperative treatment. In the group that had operative management, a relatively small number of patients had additional procedures. Eleven percent had removal of hardware. Less than 1% of all patients had revision of the internal fixation, arthroplasty, arthrodesis, or amputation.

CONCLUSION

In properly selected cases, the complication rates of both operatively and nonoperatively treated elderly patients are low.

Clinical utility of a stability-based ankle fracture classification system

OBJECTIVE

Neither of the ankle fracture classification systems (Lauge-Hansen or Weber) in widespread use today is prognostic. To test the hypothesis that ankle fracture prognosis is dependent on initial biomechanical stability, an alternative classification system created using stability-based treatment criteria was developed on the basis of a structured analysis of the ankle fracture literature.

DATA SOURCES

All English-language papers reporting on ankle fractures (searched using the terms "ankle + fracture") published between 1966 and 2005 with available online abstracts via PubMed were screened.

STUDY SELECTION

Abstracts were manually screened for inclusion using the following criteria: (1) there were at least 2 groups of patients categorized on the basis of either fracture configuration or treatment and (2) data was reported in sufficient detail to permit interstudy comparisons.

DATA EXTRACTION

Each included paper was abstracted into a computerized database for consistent data capture. Data elements included the following: fracture classification, stability definitions, surgical indications, patient follow-up parameters, and outcome measures. Ankle fractures were also stratified into stable and unstable groups using predefined stability criteria, and the outcome measures were re-analyzed.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed-rank test was used for statistical comparisons, assigning statistical significance to 2-tailed tests with P < 0.05.

CONCLUSIONS

The results support the hypothesis that a stability-based ankle fracture classification system can be prognostic. For unstable ankle fractures, the radiographic outcomes were better after surgery, when the decision for surgery was made on the basis of stability (P = 0.0173). Overall, non-operative treatment results were also better with stability-based treatment (P = 0.0299).

Fragility fractures of the ankle: stabilisation with an expandable calcaneotalotibial nail

Fragility fractures of the ankle occur mainly in elderly osteoporotic women. They are inherently unstable and difficult to manage. There is a high incidence of complications with both non-operative and operative treatment. We treated 12 such fractures by closed reduction and stabilisation using a retrograde calcaneotalotibial expandable nail. The mean age of patients was 84 years (75 to 95). All were women and were able to walk fully weight-bearing after surgery. There were no wound complications. One patient died from a myocardial infarction 24 days after surgery. The 11 other patients were followed up for a mean of 67 weeks (39 to 104). All the fractures maintained satisfactory alignment and healed without delay. Six patients refused removal of the nail after union of the fracture. The functional rating using the scale of Olerud and Molander gave a mean score at follow-up of 61, compared with a pre-injury value of 70.

Combination of hook plate and tibial pro-fibular screw fixation of osteoporotic fractures: a clinical evaluation of operative strategy

BACKGROUND

Internal fixation of osteoporotic ankle fractures is technically difficult and may fail because of unreliable purchase. This study was undertaken to determine if a combination of a hook plate and tibial pro-fibular screws can provide secure fixation until fracture union.

METHODS

Thirty-one patients between the ages of 55 and 90 years had open reduction and internal fixation of ankle fractures between April, 2001, and April, 2003. Sixteen patients with an average age of 71.4 years had ankle fracture fixation with a combination of hook plate and tibial pro-fibular screws for the distal fibular fracture, and 15 patients with an average age of 71.9 years had fixation of their ankle fractures with standard fixation technique using AO/ASIF principles but no tibial pro-fibular screws. All patients were followed with clinical and radiologic assessment at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks postoperatively. At an average of 15.8 months after injury, patients also completed a mailed questionnaire with the Olerud-Molander ankle score and the AOFAS ankle-hindfoot score for preoperative and postoperative status.

RESULTS

All patients who had tibial pro-fibular screw fixation had fracture union without hardware failure or complications. In the standard fixation group two patients had wound breakdown and one had a valgus malunion with screw pull out. The AOFAS and Olerud-Molander scores for the standard open reduction and internal fixation were 57.3 and 82.8 before injury and 37 and 43.8 postoperatively, respectively. The AOFAS and Olerud-Molander scores for the hook plate and tibial pro-fibular fixation group were 55.9 and 81.3 before injury and 42.4 and 50.3 postoperatively, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The combination of hook plate and tibial pro-fibular screws in osteoporotic ankle fractures in a series of patients has not been reported before. This novel technique provides stable fixation for osteoporotic ankle fractures in elderly patients until union is achieved with good clinical scores.