A fracture is a partial or complete break in the bone. Ankle fracture is a common injury that occurs during a sudden rolling of the ankle inward or outward. Ankle fractures can range from less serious to severe fractures, such as breaks of the tibia or fibula.
Severe ankle fractures, such as the above-mentioned tibia or fibula breaks, can require ankle fracture surgery. This surgical procedure uses fixation plates or screws to correct the ankle fractures, stabilize the bones, and enable proper healing.
The procedure begins by positioning the patient in a way that all sides of the foot are clearly visible and accessible to the podiatric surgeon. After that, an IV and anesthesia is administered, and the area is thoroughly cleaned, sterilized, and prepared for an incision.
If the ankle fracture involves a break in the tibia, the incision is made on the inner side of the ankle. Any bone fragments that resulted from the fracture are cleaned, and one or more surgical screws are inserted into the bone. Depending on the severity of the fracture, a fixation plate may also be required.
If the ankle fracture involves a break in the fibula, the incision is made on the outer side of the ankle. Any bone fragments that resulted from the fracture are cleaned. Following that, a fixation plate is positioned over the fibula and secured in place with surgical screws.
The ankle fracture surgery finishes with a closure of the incision using sutures or surgical staples. The ankle is then bandaged and put in a splint. A patient may be required to wear a cast or a walking boot for a certain period of time after surgery. In certain cases, physical therapy may also be required prior to returning to normal activities.
Our top podiatrist. Dr. Ben Tehrani, has successfully performed the ankle fracture surgery on many patients. If you need to consult Dr. Tehrani for any problem you experience with your ankle, please contact us.