M. Chandra Sekharam Naidu1, S. Sankar Rao2, V. Dharma Rao3
Malleolar fractures are one of the most common lower extremity fractures in orthopaedic traumatology. Ankle injuries gain importance because body weight is transmitted through it and locomotion depends upon the stability of this joint. Malleolar fractures have varied presentations which have given rise to a wide variety of classification systems, of which two are in vogue Lauge - Hansens and Danis - Weber classification. As with all intra articular fractures, malleolar fractures necessitate accurate reduction and stable internal fixation. When malleolar fractures are not reduced accurately they may lead to post traumatic painful restriction of motion or osteoarthritis or both.1 Many of the fractures which are stable are treated by conservative treatment and have given good result. The other unstable, displaced and open fractures require open reduction internal fixation. The superiority of ORIF over closed treatment have been thoroughly demonstrated in literature.2 The purpose of this study is to assess the functional outcome and results of surgical treatment of malleolar fractures. The treatment options with ORIF technique available for malleolar fractures, to attain a proper anatomical alignment and stability of the ankle joint, can lead to rewarding outcome for the patient and surgeon.
