A spiral fracture of the lateral malleolus occurs when a twisting force is applied to the ankle, causing the bone to fracture in a spiral pattern. A syndesmotic injury occurs when there is damage to the ligaments that connect the tibia and fibula bones. This injury can lead to instability of the ankle joint and can cause long-term problems if not treated appropriately.
Surgical treatment is often recommended for patients with a spiral fracture of the lateral malleolus with a syndesmotic injury. This is because surgery can provide better stability to the ankle joint, which can reduce the risk of long-term problems.
The surgical procedure involves making an incision over the lateral malleolus to gain access to the fractured bone. The fractured bone is then reduced, which means the bone fragments are realigned in their correct position. This is usually done using plate and screws or other implants to hold the bone in place.
Once the bone is reduced, the surgeon will then focus on the syndesmotic injury. The surgeon will make an incision over the ankle joint to access the syndesmosis. The ligaments that are damaged will be repaired or reconstructed using sutures or other techniques. The surgeon may also use screws or other implants to hold the tibia and fibula bones in the correct position.
After the surgery, the patient will be required to wear a cast or a brace to immobilize the ankle joint. This will help to prevent movement and promote healing. Physical therapy will also be recommended to help restore the strength and mobility of the ankle joint.
The success rate of surgical treatment for a spiral fracture of the lateral malleolus with a syndesmotic injury is high. Patients can expect to return to their normal activities within three to six months, depending on the severity of the injury and the extent of the surgery.
In conclusion, a spiral fracture of the lateral malleolus with a syndesmotic injury is a common injury that requires surgical treatment for better outcomes. The surgical procedure involves realigning the fractured bone and repairing or reconstructing the damaged ligaments. Patients can expect to return to their normal activities within a few months of surgery. It is essential to consult with an experienced orthopedic surgeon to determine the best treatment plan for this injury.