Ankle fracture open reduction and internal fixation surgically realigns and stabilizes broken ankle bones using plates, screws, or rods to restore joint anatomy and allow rehabilitation.
Indicated for displaced or unstable ankle fractures where closed treatment would not maintain adequate alignment for healing.
Performed under regional or general anesthesia, typically taking 1 to 1.5 hours. Plates and screws are applied to the fibula and sometimes the tibia or medial malleolus. A splint is applied initially followed by a boot.
Risks include hardware irritation or prominence, infection, stiffness, post-traumatic arthritis, wound healing issues, and nerve injury.
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