J Korean Foot Ankle Soc.  2022 Jun;26(2):59-65. 10.14193/jkfas.2022.26.2.59.

What is the Significance of the Posterior Malleolus in Ankle Fractures?

• Lee J
• Park JY

• KMID: 2530484
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.14193/jkfas.2022.26.2.59

Abstract

The posterior malleolar fracture is relatively common fracture of the foot and ankle, but several aspects of this are still controversial. If the posterior malleolus is involved in the ankle fracture, the prognosis is usually poor. A computed tomography scan is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. Although indirect reduction and the anterior to posterior screw fixation technique have the advantages of a small incision with the requirement of relatively simple skills, direct open reduction and fixation from the posterior side provide a more biomechanically stable and accurate reduction. The precise reduction of the posterior malleolar fragment helps to achieve congruency of the tibia and fibula in the incisura and contributes to syndesmotic stability. It is important to determine the indications for surgical treatment by comprehensively evaluating the three-dimensional structure of the posterior malleolar fracture and all related injuries to the ankle.

Keyword

Posterior malleolus fractures; Trimalleolar fractures; Ankle fractures