Wound-Healing Issues Following Rotational Ankle Fracture Surgery: Predictors and Local Management Options:

Background. The incidence and risk factors of wound-healing complications following rotational ankle fracture surgery are well documented in the literature. However, there is a paucity regarding management options following these complications. The goal of this study was to provide a descriptive analysis of one surgeon’s experience managing wound complications in patients who have undergone ankle fracture surgery. Methods. A total of 215 patients who were operatively treated for an unstable ankle were retrospectively identified. Patient demographics, medical histories, initial injury characteristics, surgical interventions, and clinical follow-up were collected. Twenty-five of these patients developed postoperative wound problems. Results. Of the original cohort of 215 patients, 25 (11.6%) developed wound-healing complications. Their average age was 53.6 ± 18.0 years; there were 12 males (48.0%). Connective tissue/inflammatory disease (odds ratio [OR] 3.9), cardiovascular disease (OR 3.6), and active smok...