Ankle fractures

There have been numerous recent publications regarding the role of ankle arthroscopy in the diagnosis and treatment of combined intra-articular fractures of the ankle.

The author’s experience is that it allows a more accurate pre-operative assessment of the articular surfaces, removal of chondral or osteochondral loose fragments and removal of clot and early arthrofibrotic tissue, producing faster rehabilitation and better outcomes. This is supported by Ono A et al (88) in July 2004 with a series of 105 ankles.

Ankle arthroscopy can also be used to treat poor results following standard fixation techniques, treating previously undiagnosed osteochondral lesions and syndemotic injuries and arthrofibrosis (89).

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References
(88) Ono A, Nishikawa S, Nagao A, Irie T, Sasaki M, Kuono T, ?Arthroscopically assisted treatment of ankle fractures: arthroscopic findings and surgical outcomes? Arthroscopy: journal of arthroscopic and related surgery 2004; 20:6; 627-31
(89) Hintermann B, Regazzoni P, Lampert C, Stutz G, G?chter A, ?Arthroscopic findings in acute fractures of the ankle? JBJS 2000; 82:3; 345-51