Ankle fracture surgery
In patients with unstable ankle fractures, typically with injuries on both sides of the joint. Plates and screws are used to fix the bones in the proper alignment and allow them to heal. This is done typically with incisions on either side of the ankle and the fragments are aligned.
Not all fractures are alike. Each patient will be counselled on what their surgery will involve. Most ankle fractures will be also treated with arthroscopic assessment of the ankle joint at the same time as fixation.
Mr. Talia is always happy to see patients at short notice with foot and ankle injuries and if surgery is required this can typically be organised in a safe manner within recommended timeframes for the best outcome.
Figure 1: fixation of ankle fractures of increasing severity from left to right
Figure 2: pre operative CT scan of a patient with a severe trimalleolar ankle fracture
Post-operative plan:
Surgery is typically an overnight stay
A nerve block of the leg is administered to help with pain
0-2 weeks: elevation at home, plaster cast or CAMboot
2-6 weeks: partial weight bearing in a CAMboot
6-10 weeks onwards: full weight bearing in moon boot
>12 weeks: progress to strengthening
Download post-operative care guide
Risks of surgery
Swelling, stiffness
Infection and wound breakdown
Blood clots
Scar sensitivity, numbness in the foot
Ongoing pain
Progression to arthritis of the foot or ankle joints
Removal of implants in 10-15% of patients