ABSTRACT
We reviewed early complications of 35 surgically treated closed ankle fractures at Services Hospital, Lahore between January 1993 to January 1994. There were 28 males and 7 females with age ranging from 16-80 years. Webers AO Method of classification of fractures was used. There were 23 Weber type B and 12 Weber type C cases. Fracture dislocations were three times more common than simple fractures. The complication rate was 28.5%, with two major and eight minor complications. Fractures with blisters and skin abrasions had more than double the overall complication rate. Patients not fixed within 24 hours had 44% major complication rate compared to 5-3% in those operated upon as emergencies. We conclude that operative treatment of ankle fracture must be carried out in a timely fashion, especially in severe fractures. Fracture dislocations and delay in surgery are the major factors responsible for higher complication rate