Treatment of Lateral Malleolar Fractures using Minimally Invasive Plate Osteosynthesis Technique

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To evaluate the efficacy and complication of minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) technique for lateral malleolar fracture. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From January 2001 to December 2003, we had treated 13 cases of lateral malleolar fracture (AO-OTA classification, type A 4, type B 9) by MIPO technique and followed them up more than 1 year. Operation time, union time, radiologic alignment, range of motion of the ankle joint, functional results according to criteria of Meyer and complication were evaluated. RESULTS: After the final follow-up, all the fractures were healed without any second procedure, full-weight bearing ambulation was started in average 10 weeks. Any malunion was not observed by the inadequate bending of plate. Two patients felt a discomfort of ankle because the location of plate was lower than the tip of the lateral malleolus, but all the patients had excellent or satisfactory ankle functions. No deep infection or soft tissue compromise were observed at the last follow up. CONCLUSION: Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis technique is safe and worthwhile method in management of lateral malleous fractures while avoiding the complications associated with conventional open plating methods.