Predictors of first-year postoperative complications after fixation of low-energy ankle fractures: A single-center, retrospective cohort study of 663 consecutive fractures. / [Artículo traducido] Predictores de las complicaciones postoperatorias en el primer año tras la fijación de fracturas de tobillo de baja energía. Estudio de cohortes retrospectivo sobre 663 fracturas intervenidas consecutivamente en un único centro.

INTRODUCTION: Rotational ankle fractures are common, have diverse personalities and affect both robust and fragile patients. Postoperative complications are frequent, creating a sizeable economic burden. The primary purpose of this study was to expand current knowledge on predictors of postoperative complications after low-energy ankle fracture fixation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective single-center cohort study was completed of patients undergoing internal fixation OF low-energy ankle fractures. The primary outcome was first-year postoperative complications, classified as major (surgical) or minor (non-surgical). Data on patients, their injuries, and treatments were collected. To identify potential predictors of outcomes, logistic regression methods were used, with a backward-stepwise method used for model fitting. RESULTS: In total, 663 patients of median age 59 years were analysed. We found a high rate of complications (28.4%), with wound-healing issues and infections predominant. Overall, 14.8% had minor complications, while 13.6% required an unplanned reoperation. On multivariable analysis, the most consistent predictors of complications were older age (OR: 1.02 per year), longer operating time (3.32 per hour), and smoking (2.91). CONCLUSIONS: Older patients and smokers who sustain fractures requiring more complex surgery are at higher risk of postoperative complications.

Predictors of first-year postoperative complications after fixation of low-energy ankle fractures: A single-center, retrospective cohort study of 663 consecutive fractures.

INTRODUCTION: Rotational ankle fractures are common, have diverse personalities and affect both robust and fragile patients. Postoperative complications are frequent, creating a sizeable economic burden. The primary purpose of this study was to expand current knowledge on predictors of postoperative complications after low-energy ankle fracture fixation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective single-center cohort study was completed of patients undergoing internal fixation OF low-energy ankle fractures. The primary outcome was first-year postoperative complications, classified as major (surgical) or minor (non-surgical). Data on patients, their injuries, and treatments were collected. To identify potential predictors of outcomes, logistic regression methods were used, with a backward-stepwise method used for model fitting. RESULTS: In total, 663 patients of median age 59 years were analyzed. We found a high rate of complications (28.4%), with wound-healing issues and infections predominant. Overall, 14.8% had minor complications, while 13.6% required an unplanned reoperation. On multivariable analysis, the most consistent predictors of complications were older age (OR=1.02 per year), longer operating time (3.32 per hour), and smoking (2.91). CONCLUSIONS: Older patients and smokers who sustain fractures requiring more complex surgery are at higher risk of postoperative complications.

Documento de posicionamiento respecto a las fracturas de tobillo en cirugía mayor ambulatoria / Position statement relating ankle fractures in major outpatient surgery

Introducción: El aumento de la prevalencia de osteoporosis asociado al envejecimiento y a los accidentes deportivos y de tráfico, son los responsables del incremento de las fracturas de tobillo. Este hecho pone de manifiesto la necesidad de protocolizar su asistencia para proporcionar un mayor beneficio clínico al paciente y una disminución de costes al sistema. Objetivo y métodos: En la actualidad, no existe un marco común para la implantación de protocolos y circuitos internos en los centros españoles para la realización de fracturas de tobillo por la vía de la cirugía mayor ambulatoria (CMA), objetivo que persigue el presente documento de posicionamiento. Para ello se revisa la evidencia clínica y económica de la CMA, el entorno local y las estrategias para su implementación, haciendo referencia a las fracturas de tobillo. Evidencia clínica y económica: Los resultados mostraron una mejor relación coste-beneficio en pacientes ambulatorios respecto a la tradicional hospitalización, con complicaciones y tasas de reingreso menores y, por tanto, ahorro de costes significativos. Barreras y estrategias: Se revisan las barreras generales y específicas, así como las estrategias y los circuitos para la correcta implementación. Resultados: Los resultados muestran una reducción de las tasas de complicaciones y reingresos, así como un ahorro de costes. Supone una mejor relación coste-beneficio en la atención ambulatoria en comparación con la hospitalización tradicional. Posicionamiento: La implantación de la CMA contribuye a mejorar la calidad asistencial, la satisfacción del paciente y del equipo asistencial, así como la optimización de recursos. Las fracturas de tobillo en pacientes seleccionados tanto por la patología de base, riesgo anestésico y tipo de fractura pueden intervenirse de manera satisfactoria en régimen de CMA.(AU)

Introduction: The increase in the prevalence of osteoporosis associated with ageing, and sports and traffic accidents, are responsible for the increase in ankle fractures. This fact emphasises the need to protocolise their care in order to provide greater clinical benefit to patients, and better cost–benefit ratios to the health system. Aim and method: At present, there is no common framework for implementation of protocols and internal circuits of the Spanish centres for ankle fractures by means of major outpatient surgery (MOS), which is the final objective of this position paper. For this, the clinical and economic evidence of MOS, the local environment and the strategies for its implementation are reviewed, related to ankle fractures. Clinical and economic vidence: The results showed a better cost–benefit ratio in outpatients compared to traditional hospitalisation, with lower complications and readmission rates and therefore significant cost savings. Barriers and strategies: General and specific barriers are reviewed, as well as strategies and circuits for proper implementation. Results: The results show lower complication and readmission rates together with significant cost savings. It entails a better cost–benefit ratio in outpatient care compared to traditional hospitalisation. Position statement:The implementation of MOS contributes to improve the quality of care, and the satisfaction of both, patient and health care team, while optimising the utilisation of resources. Ankle fractures in patients selected for both the underlying pathology, anaesthetic risk, and the type of fracture can be operated satisfactorily under the MOS.(AU)

Position statement relating ankle fractures in major outpatient surgery / Documento de posicionamiento respecto a las fracturas de tobillo en cirugía mayor ambulatoria

Introduction: The increase in the prevalence of osteoporosis associated with ageing, and sports and traffic accidents, are responsible for the increase in ankle fractures. This fact emphasises the need to protocolise their care in order to provide greater clinical benefit to patients, and better cost–benefit ratios to the health system. Aim and method: At present, there is no common framework for implementation of protocols and internal circuits of the Spanish centres for ankle fractures by means of major outpatient surgery (MOS), which is the final objective of this position paper. For this, the clinical and economic evidence of MOS, the local environment and the strategies for its implementation are reviewed, related to ankle fractures. Clinical and economic vidence: The results showed a better cost–benefit ratio in outpatients compared to traditional hospitalisation, with lower complications and readmission rates and therefore significant cost savings. Barriers and strategies: General and specific barriers are reviewed, as well as strategies and circuits for proper implementation. Results: The results show lower complication and readmission rates together with significant cost savings. It entails a better cost–benefit ratio in outpatient care compared to traditional hospitalisation. Position statement:The implementation of MOS contributes to improve the quality of care, and the satisfaction of both, patient and health care team, while optimising the utilisation of resources. Ankle fractures in patients selected for both the underlying pathology, anaesthetic risk, and the type of fracture can be operated satisfactorily under the MOS.(AU)

Introducción: El aumento de la prevalencia de osteoporosis asociado al envejecimiento y a los accidentes deportivos y de tráfico, son los responsables del incremento de las fracturas de tobillo. Este hecho pone de manifiesto la necesidad de protocolizar su asistencia para proporcionar un mayor beneficio clínico al paciente y una disminución de costes al sistema. Objetivo y métodos: En la actualidad, no existe un marco común para la implantación de protocolos y circuitos internos en los centros españoles para la realización de fracturas de tobillo por la vía de la cirugía mayor ambulatoria (CMA), objetivo que persigue el presente documento de posicionamiento. Para ello se revisa la evidencia clínica y económica de la CMA, el entorno local y las estrategias para su implementación, haciendo referencia a las fracturas de tobillo. Evidencia clínica y económica: Los resultados mostraron una mejor relación coste-beneficio en pacientes ambulatorios respecto a la tradicional hospitalización, con complicaciones y tasas de reingreso menores y, por tanto, ahorro de costes significativos. Barreras y estrategias: Se revisan las barreras generales y específicas, así como las estrategias y los circuitos para la correcta implementación. Resultados: Los resultados muestran una reducción de las tasas de complicaciones y reingresos, así como un ahorro de costes. Supone una mejor relación coste-beneficio en la atención ambulatoria en comparación con la hospitalización tradicional. Posicionamiento: La implantación de la CMA contribuye a mejorar la calidad asistencial, la satisfacción del paciente y del equipo asistencial, así como la optimización de recursos. Las fracturas de tobillo en pacientes seleccionados tanto por la patología de base, riesgo anestésico y tipo de fractura pueden intervenirse de manera satisfactoria en régimen de CMA.(AU)

Position statement relating ankle fractures in major outpatient surgery. / Documento de posicionamiento respecto a las fracturas de tobillo en cirugía mayor ambulatoria.

INTRODUCTION: The increase in the prevalence of osteoporosis associated with ageing, and sports and traffic accidents, are responsible for the increase in ankle fractures. This fact emphasises the need to protocolise their care in order to provide greater clinical benefit to patients, and better cost-benefit ratios to the health system. AIM AND METHOD: At present, there is no common framework for implementation of protocols and internal circuits of the Spanish centres for ankle fractures by means of major outpatient surgery (MOS), which is the final objective of this position paper. For this, the clinical and economic evidence of MOS, the local environment and the strategies for its implementation are reviewed, related to ankle fractures. CLINICAL AND ECONOMIC EVIDENCE: The results showed a better cost-benefit ratio in outpatients compared to traditional hospitalisation, with lower complications and readmission rates and therefore significant cost savings. BARRIERS AND STRATEGIES: General and specific barriers are reviewed, as well as strategies and circuits for proper implementation. RESULTS: The results show lower complication and readmission rates together with significant cost savings. It entails a better cost-benefit ratio in outpatient care compared to traditional hospitalisation. POSITION STATEMENT: The implementation of MOS contributes to improve the quality of care, and the satisfaction of both, patient and health care team, while optimising the utilisation of resources. Ankle fractures in patients selected for both the underlying pathology, anaesthetic risk, and the type of fracture can be operated satisfactorily under the MOS.

Do surgical site complications after ankle fracture surgery reduce with Aquacel Extra Ag®? / ¿Disminuyen las complicaciones cutáneas tras la cirugía de fracturas de tobillo con el uso de Aquacel Extra Ag®?

INTRODUCTION: Ankle fractures account for up to 10% of total fractures. Most of them require surgical fixation, which involves an important risk of wound complications. The aim of this study was to determine whether a silver-impregnated occlusive surgical dressing (Aquacel Ag Extra®) was effective in reducing the rates of wound complications after ankle fracture open reduction and internal fixation compared to standard sterile dressing. METHODS: We prospectively reviewed 233 patients who underwent ankle fracture open reduction and internal fixation. Surgeons switched from using a standard dressing to an Aquacel Ag Extra® from July 2017 to February 2018, without other major changes in perioperative management. We compared skin complications between both groups after 3 months' follow-up. RESULTS: The statistical analysis showed that there is no difference in the prevalence of skin complications between both groups. CONCLUSIONS: The theoretical advantages of silver impregnated dressings need further prospective randomized controlled studies to assess the appropriate indications for their use in orthopaedic surgery.

Fractura de Tillaux en adultos en asociación con las fracturas de Volkmann y Maisonneuve. Reporte de caso / Adult Tillaux fracture in association with Volkmann and Maisonneuve fractures. Case report

Se sabe que la fractura de Tillaux ocurre en adolescentes una vez que ocurre durante el período de transición cuando la fisis medial y central ha finalizado el cierre, pero la fisis lateral todavía está abierta. El mecanismo de traumatismo es típicamente una lesión de tobillo de rotación externa que resulta en una fractura por avulsión del plafón tibial anterolateral. Esta fractura rara vez se ha informado en adultos, especialmente asociada con otras lesiones. Divulgamos un caso de fractura de Tillaux en un adulto, asociado con una fractura de Volkmann y una fractura de Maisonneuve, que se trataron mediante cirugía con reducción abierta y fijación interna y tuvieron un resultado excelente. Reconocer y tratar apropiadamente cada una de estas lesiones es la clave para prevenir artritis e inestabilidad degenerativas.

Tillaux fracture is known to occur in adolescents once it happens during transition period when the medial and central physis has finished closure, but the lateral physis is still opened. The trauma mechanism is typically external rotation ankle injury resulting in an avulsion fracture of the anterolateral tibial plafond. This fracture has rarely been reported in adults, especially associated with others injuries. We report a case of Tillaux fracture in an adult, associated with a Volkmann fracture and a Maisonneuve fracture, that were surgery treated with open reduction and internal fixation and had an excellent outcome. Recognize and appropriately treat each one of these injuries is the key to prevent further degenerative arthritis and instability.

Adult Tillaux fracture in association with Volkmann and Maisonneuve fractures. Case report / Fractura de Tillaux en adultos en asociación con las fracturas de Volkmann y Maisonneuve. Reporte de caso

Tillaux fracture is known to occur in adolescents once it happens during transition period when the medial and central physis has finished closure, but the lateral physis is still opened. The trauma mechanism is typically external rotation ankle injury resulting in an avulsion fracture of the anterolateral tibial plafond. This fracture has rarely been reported in adults, especially associated with others injuries. We report a case of Tillaux fracture in an adult, associated with a Volkmann fracture and a Maisonneuve fracture, that were surgery treated with open reduction and internal fixation and had an excellent outcome. Recognize and appropriately treat each one of these injuries is the key to prevent further degenerative arthritis and instability.

Se sabe que la fractura de Tillaux ocurre en adolescentes una vez que ocurre durante el período de transición cuando la fisis medial y central ha finalizado el cierre, pero la fisis lateral todavía está abierta. El mecanismo de traumatismo es típicamente una lesión de tobillo de rotación externa que resulta en una fractura por avulsión del plafón tibial anterolateral. Esta fractura rara vez se ha informado en adultos, especialmente asociada con otras lesiones. Divulgamos un caso de fractura de Tillaux en un adulto, asociado con una fractura de Volkmann y una fractura de Maisonneuve, que se trataron mediante cirugía con reducción abierta y fijación interna y tuvieron un resultado excelente. Reconocer y tratar apropiadamente cada una de estas lesiones es la clave para prevenir artritis e inestabilidad degenerativas.

Tibiotalocalcaneal fusion with a cemented coated retrograde nail as a salvage procedure for infected ORIF of the ankle. / Artrodesis tibiotalocalcánea con clavo retrógrado cementado con antibiótico en rescate de osteosíntesis infectada de tobillo.

Tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis is an effective salvage procedure in cases of combined ankle and subtalar osteoarthritis as well as severe multiplanar deformities and severe joint destruction of the hindfoot. Special mention should be made of this procedure in cases of bone loss, especially from the talus, secondary to failed previous surgeries or bone infection, often being the only way to achieve a stable and painless foot and ankle. We present a case of ankle fracture in a patient with associated morbidity and multiple complications following osteosynthesis, in which tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis with cemented with antibiotic coated retrograde nail has achieved a satisfactory final result.

Comprendiendo las fracturas triplanares de la tibia distal / Understanding triplane distal tibia fractures

Abstract. Triplane fractures (TF) are a special type of fracture that typically occur in the distal tibia, in a specific age group, and require specific treatment. It should be diagnosed early to avoid complications and irreparable consequences. Imaging techniques play a fundamental role. A review of TF is performed, and cases are presented in order to understand how they occur, and thus diagnose them properly.

Resumen. Las fracturas triplanares (FT) son un tipo especial de fracturas que se producen clásicamente en la tibia distal, en un grupo etario acotado y que requieren un tratamiento específico. Su diagnóstico debe ser oportuno para evitar complicaciones y secuelas irreparables, por lo que las imágenes cumplen un rol fundamental. Se realiza una revisión sobre las FT y una muestra de casos para comprender cómo se generan y así realizar un adecuado diagnóstico de ellas.

[Open reduction and internal fixation of displaced ankle fractures in patients older than 65 years of age. Analysis of results at five-year follow-up]. / Resultado a los cinco años del tratamiento quirúrgico de las fracturas desplazadas de tobillo en los pacientes mayores de 65 años.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the long term outcome of surgical treatment for displaced ankle fractures in patients over 65 years of age, and determine the influence of age and comorbidity in the occurrence of complications. MATERIAL AND METHOD: Retrospective descriptive study on 40 patients, with a mean age of 72.7 years (range: 65-88), who underwent open reduction and internal fixation for the treatment of a displaced ankle fracture. The patients were clinically evaluated according to the AOFAS criteria (functional outcome). Data collection also included the presence of comorbidities, radiographic evaluation, the occurrence of postoperative complications, and a questionnaire on satisfaction with treatment received. The mean follow-up was 5.73 years. RESULTS: At the end of the follow-up, according to the AOFAS criteria, excellent/good results were obtained in 75% of the patients (n=30), with 38 patients referring to be quite/very happy with the result. Wound skin problems and metal work migration were the most common post-operative complications. No statistically significant relationship was found between increased age or a high number of comorbidities and an increased occurrence of postoperative complications (p>.05). Only 3 patients needed postoperative rehabilitation, and 95% of the patients (n=38) returned to their activities of normal daily living. CONCLUSIONS: Surgical treatment of displaced ankle fractures in the elderly patient facilitates the early resumption of the activities of daily living.

Fracturas de tobillo. comparación entre la cirugía abierta y el método mínimamente invasivo / Ankle fractures. comparison between open surgery and a minimally invasive method

Introducción: Las fracturas de tobillo son lesiones traumáticas frecuentes. El tratamiento, en general, es quirúrgico. La cirugía puede ser abierta o percutánea. El objetivo de este estudio es comparar el método mínimamente invasivo y el de la cirugía convencional abierta en el tratamiento de las fracturas detobillo AO B. Materiales y Métodos: Estudio prospectivo comparativo de 75 casosde fracturas AO B operados con MIPO y 58 casos operados por vía convencional. Se agruparon según la clasificación AO. Se evaluaron las características durante el período intraoperatorio y la hospitalización, los resultados funcionales, según los puntajes de la AOFAS y de Weber, y los resultados radiológicos El seguimiento promedio de ambos grupos fue de 20.4 meses. Resultados: Se mencionan los resultados comparativos del tiempo quirúrgico, la estadía hospitalaria, el tiempo de fluoroscopia, la carga del peso. El puntaje de la AOFAS a los 3 meses: grupo A: 96,5 y grupo B: 99. Reducción radiológica: 97,4% con MIPO y 98,3% de los casos convencionales. Retorno a la actividad laboral: grupo A, 3.6 meses promedio, grupo B: 2.5 meses promedio. Retorno a la actividad deportiva: grupo A: media 4.8 meses; grupo B: media 3.7 meses. Conclusiones: De este estudio, se desprende que la MIPO para tratar las fracturas transindesmales es una buena opción, la evolución y la recuperación son más rápidas que con la técnica abierta, y el índice de complicaciones es bajo.

Introduction: Ankle fractures are common traumatic injuries. Treatment is usually surgical. Surgery may be open or percutaneous. The aim of this study is to compare the minimally invasive method and the conventional open reduction internal fixation surgery in the treatment of AO type B ankle fractures. Methods: This prospective study included 75 patients with AO type B ankle fracture operated on with MIPO technique and 58 patients operated on by RAFI technique. They were grouped according to the AO classification. Intraoperative characteristics and hospitalization, functional outcomes according to AOFAS and Weber scores, and radiological results were evaluated. The follow-up was 20.4 months for both groups. Results: Comparative results of surgical time, hospital stay, fluoroscopy time, weight load. AOFAS at 3months: Group A, 96.5 points, and group B, 99 points. Anatomical reduction: 97.4% with MIPO technique and 98.3% using RAFI technique. Return to work activity: Group A, average 3.6 months; Group B: average 2.5 months. Return to sport: in Group A: mean 4.8 months; Group B: mean 3.7 months. Conclusions: It is clear from this study that the MIPO technique for the treatment of syndesmotic fractures isa good choice; the evolution and recovery are faster than with the open surgery, with a low complication rate.

Osteosíntesis de fractura de tobillo: análisis evolutivo con carga precoz: estudio preliminar / Osteosynthesis of ankle fracture: evolutionary analysis with early loading: preliminary study

Introducción: La reducción y la osteosíntesis de las fracturas de tobillo permiten una recuperación precoz. Sin embargo, clásicamente, no se permite la carga del peso durante casi seis semanas. El objetivo de este estudio es analizar si la carga inmediata del peso en pacientes con fracturas de peroné produce complicaciones y desplazamientos secundarios. Materiales y Métodos: Se estudió a 21 pacientes con fracturas de tipo AO 44B1 operados, a quienes se les indicó carga inmediata. Se analizó su evolución clínica y radiológica. El seguimiento fue superior a tres meses. Resultados: La carga del peso con protección con bota “walker” ocurrió, en promedio, a los dos días. El puntaje de la AOFAS para tobillo a los tres meses de la cirugía fue de 99. El tiempo promedio para el retorno a la actividad laboral fue de 2.1 meses y de 2.95 meses para la actividad deportiva. Conclusiones: Los pacientes con fracturas de tipo AO 44B1 de baja energía, tratados mediante reducción y osteosíntesis, pueden realizar carga del peso precoz, sin riesgo de desplazamientos secundarios. La carga precoz junto a la movilización temprana logra una muy buena evolución clínica, y no incide en un mayor índice de complicaciones.

Introduction: Reduction and fixation of ankle fractures allow early recovery. However, typically the weight load is not allowed for about 6 weeks. The aim of this study is to analyze if immediate weight bearing in patients with fibula fractures produces complications and/or secondary displacement. Methods: Twenty-one patients with AO type 44B1 operated fractures were analyzed, and immediate loading was indicated. Clinical and radiographic outcomes were evaluated. Follow-up was >3 months. Results: Weight load with a walker boot protection occurred, on average, at day 2. The AOFAS ankle score averaged 99 points three months after surgery. Patients returned to work at 2.1 months and to the previous sporting activity at 2.95 months, on average. Conclusions: Patients with low-energy AO type 44B1 fractures, treated by reduction and osteosynthesis, can support early weight load without risk of secondary movements. Early loading with early mobilization has a very good clinical outcome, and it does not induce a higher rate of complications.