FIBULA ROD FIXATION IN UNSTABLE ANKLE FRACTURES: EXPERIENCE AT LEVEL ONE MAJOR TRAUMA CENTRE

IntroductionDifferent techniques for fixation of lateral malleolus have been described. We report our results of using fibula rod for unstable ankle fractures in level one major trauma centre.MethodsWe reviewed the results of 40 ankle fractures (14 open and 26 closed) with significant soft tissue injuries and open fractures that were treated with a fibula rod between 2012 and 2015. The median age of patients was 60 (17–98 years).ResultsSatisfactory fracture reduction was achieved in all of these patients Two patients had loss of syndesmosis fixation. All fibula fractures healed but 3 medial malleolus non unions occurred which did not need further surgery. 1 patient developed post-operative deep infection and had removal of metalwork.The median physical component Short-Form 12 (PSF12), Olerud and Molander score (OMS), and American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Foot and Ankle outcome scores (AOFAS) were 40 (19 to 52), 57 (0 to 85) and 75 (20 to 95), respectively.The median PSF12, OMS and AOFAS were 33, 35...