J Korean Foot Ankle Soc.  2023 Jun;27(2):43-48. 10.14193/jkfas.2023.27.2.43.

Osteoporotic Ankle Fracture

• Lee H
• Kim C
• Kim GL

• KMID: 2542999
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.14193/jkfas.2023.27.2.43

Abstract

The incidence of osteoporotic ankle fractures is increasing as the population ages. These fractures are becoming more common in clinical practice and require careful management because of the higher likelihood of developing complications than typical ankle fractures. The introduction of a method for measuring the ankle joint bone mineral density is a valuable tool for assessing the bone quality of the ankle joint. By evaluating the bone mineral density, healthcare professionals can better understand the extent of osteoporosis and the overall strength of the ankle joint. This information is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment for individual fractures. Several factors must be considered when deciding on the treatment for osteoporotic ankle fractures. These include the ankle joint bone mineral density, skin condition, any comorbidities the patient may have, and the patient's functional demands. Taking these factors into consideration allows healthcare providers to tailor the treatment plan to the specific needs and the circumstances of each patient. By applying the appropriate treatment, it is expected that the complications associated with osteoporotic ankle fractures can be minimized, and the prognosis for patients can be improved.

Keyword

Osteoporosis; Ankle fractures; Elderly; Bone density

Figure

• 

  Figure 1 (A) Pilon fracture in a 77-year-old male with severe osteoporosis. (B) Internal fixation with cannulated screws (tibia) and intramedullary fibular fixation. Due to difficulties in achieving sufficient fixation solely through internal fixation, an external fixator was used.

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  Figure 2 (A) A case of osteoporotic bimalleolar ankle fracture in a 80-year-old female. (B) Internal fixation was achieved with locking plate, syndesmotic screw and tightrope fixation. To improve ankle stability, syndesmotic screw and tightrope fixation were employed.

• 

  Figure 3 (A) A case of severe osteoporotic ankle fracture in a 99-year-old female. (B) Internal fixation was achieved with a tibio-talo-calcaneal nail.

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