Percutaneous screw fixation for painful non-union of lateral malleolus ankle fractures. Issue 10 (October 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Batten, Timothy J.; Scott-Davies, Charlotte; Butler, Michael; Parsons, Stephen W.; Walter, Richard P.
• Is Part Of: Injury. Volume 49:Issue 10(2018)
• Page Start: 1936
• Page End: 1941
• Publication Date: 2018-10
• Subjects: Fibula non-union -- Fibula screw -- Unified theory of bone healing; Wounds and injuries -- Surgery -- Periodicals; Accidents -- Periodicals; Wounds and Injuries -- surgery -- Periodicals; Lésions et blessures -- Chirurgie -- Périodiques; Electronic journals; Electronic journals; 617.1
• DOI: 10.1016/j.injury.2018.08.010
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0020-1383

Abstract

Abstract: Introduction: Lateral malleolus non-union can cause pain and loss of function. Standard treatment involves open approach with debridement, bone-grafting and plate stabilisation, with published surgical site infection rates to 17%. To minimise the risk of soft tissue complications and allow early mobilisation, we describe a technique for percutaneous cannulated screw stabilisation. Materials and methods: Retrospective case review for all percutaneous lateral malleolus non-union stabilisation procedures undertaken in our hospital between 2011 and 2017 was performed. Fracture union was diagnosed by resolution of pain and swelling, with a return to full weight-bearing mobilisation and two-view radiographs consistent with union. Results: Twelve cases were reviewed. All fractures united. There was one superficial wound infection treated with oral antibiotics, and one early case with drill-piece fracture requiring conversion to open procedure with plate stabilisation. Conclusion: We believe this to be the first report of percutaneous stabilisation for non-union of lateral malleolus fractures. We demonstrate this to be a safe and effective technique.