Early weight-bearing in operatively fixed ankle fractures: A systematic review

The Foot ◽  
2013 ◽  
Vol 23 (2-3) ◽  
pp. 78-85 ◽  
Author(s):  
J.D.J. Black ◽  
M. Bhavikatti ◽  
N. Al-Hadithy ◽  
A. Hakmi ◽  
J. Kitson
Keyword(s):  
Systematic Review ◽  
Weight Bearing ◽  
Ankle Fractures ◽  
Early Weight Bearing

scholarly journals An overview on the treatment and outcome factors of ankle fractures in elderly men and women aged 80 and over: a systematic review

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Marieke S. van Halsema ◽  
Rick A. R. Boers ◽  
Vincent J. M. Leferink
Keyword(s):  
Systematic Review ◽  
Weight Bearing ◽  
Case Series ◽  
Developed Countries ◽  
Plaster Cast ◽  
Ankle Fractures ◽  
Cochrane Library ◽  
80 And Over ◽  
Aged 80 And Over ◽  
Early Weight Bearing

Abstract Introduction This article is a systematic review of the literature on elderly aged 80 and over with an ankle fracture. Low energy trauma fractures are a major public health burden in developed countries that have aged populations. Ankle fractures are the third most common fractures after hip and wrist fractures. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the treatments and the used outcome factors. Methods PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and CINAHL were searched to retrieve relevant studies. Studies published in English or Dutch concerning the treatment of ankle fractures in patients aged 80 and over were included. Results Initially 2054 studies were found in the databases. After removing duplicate entries, 1182 remained. Finally, after screening six studies were included, of which three cohorts studies and three case series. Six different treatments were identified and described; ORIF, transarticular Steinmann pin, plaster cast with or without weight-bearing, Gallagher nail and the TCC nail. Furthermore, 32 outcome factors were identified. Discussion The various studies show that practitioners are careful with early weight-bearing. However, if we look closely to the results and other literature, this seems not necessary and it could potentially be of great value to implement early weight-bearing in the treatment. Furthermore, quality of life seems underreported in this research field. Conclusions ORIF with plaster cast and permissive weight-bearing should be considered for this population since it seems to be a safe possibility for a majority of the relatively healthy patients aged 80 and over. In cases where surgery is contra-indicated and a plaster cast is the choice of treatment, early weight-bearing seems to have a positive influence on the outcome in the very old patient.

scholarly journals Do weight bearing radiographs estimate the stability of an isolated distal fibula fracture?

2018 ◽  
Vol 3 (3) ◽  
pp. 2473011418S0052
Author(s):  
Sohail Yousaf ◽  
Daniel Hay
Keyword(s):  
Systematic Review ◽  
External Rotation ◽  
Weight Bearing ◽  
Ankle Fractures ◽  
Controlled Trials ◽  
Distal Fibula ◽  
Fibula Fracture ◽  
Stress Radiographs ◽  
The Stability ◽  
Supination External Rotation

Category: Trauma Introduction/Purpose: Differentiating stable isolated fibula fractures consistent with supination external rotation (SER) II ankle fractures from unstable SER IV fractures is essential in determining the need for surgical stabilisation. Stress radiographs are usually required to assess stability including gravity stress views (GSV) and external rotation views (ER). There is no clear consensus as to which modality is most useful to determine stability in a fracture clinic or emergency setting. In last, few years clinical uncertainty about the reliability has led researcher to focus on weight bearing radiographs (WB) .We aim to review recent literature regarding reliability of WB radiographs to estimate the stability of supination external rotation ankle fractures. Methods: A systematic review of the literature relating to radiological assessment of stability of supination external rotation ankle fractures was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines. The systematic review was prospectively registered with PROSPERO. It involved the following steps: Researching the question-Do weight bearing radiographs estimate the stability of an isolated distal fibula fracture? Setting inclusion and exclusion criteria-All English language articles published in the including any Randomised controlled trials (RCT’s) and cohort studies. Data collection)– A literature search of Medline (PubMed), the Cochrane Bone, Joint, and Muscle Trauma Group trial register, the Cochrane central register of controlled trials, Embase and CINAHL was undertaken. The grey literature was searched. Key terms ‘supination external rotation fracture’, ‘stability’. Other variations to the key words were ‘weight bearing’, “axial load”, ‘stress x-rays’, ‘systematic reviews’ and ‘meta-analysis’. Results: A total of six studies met the inclusion criteria including 601 patients. No previous systematic review on stress radiographs including weight bearing was published. All studies concluded weight bearing radiographs is an easy, pain-free, safe and reliable method to estimate stability of isolated distal fibula fractures. No serious concerns or complications were reported. Conclusion: The evidence base contained many methodological limitations and most of the evidence was either level III or IV, and so any conclusion drawn from the research must be done so with caution. The studies suggest that GSV overestimates the instability which should be assessed with studies should focus on randomized controlled trials with narrow range of clinically useful outcome measures.

scholarly journals Protocol for the Weight-bearing in Ankle Fractures (WAX) trial: a multicentre prospective non-inferiority trial of early versus delayed weight-bearing after operatively managed ankle fracture

2021 ◽  
Vol 22 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
C. P. Bretherton ◽  
H. A. Claireaux ◽  
J. Achten ◽  
A. Athwal ◽  
S. J. Dutton ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Ankle Fracture ◽  
Weight Bearing ◽  
Treatment Options ◽  
Health Economic Evaluation ◽  
Cost Effective ◽  
Primary Outcome Measure ◽  
Ankle Fractures ◽  
Early Weight Bearing ◽  
Related Quality ◽  
Post Randomisation

Abstract Background Unstable ankle fractures represent a substantial burden of disease, accounting for a mean hospital stay of nine days, a mean cost of £4,491 per patient and 20,000 operations per year. There is variation in UK practice around weight-bearing instructions after operatively managed ankle fracture. Early weight-bearing may reduce reliance on health services, time off work, and improve functional outcomes. However, concerns remain about the potential for complications such as implant failure. This is the protocol of a multicentre randomised non-inferiority clinical trial of weight-bearing following operatively treated ankle fracture. Methods Adults aged 18 years and over who have been managed operatively for ankle fracture will be assessed for eligibility. Baseline function (Olerud and Molander Ankle Score [OMAS]), health-related quality of life (EQ-5D-5L), and complications will be collected after informed consent has been obtained. A randomisation sequence has been prepared by a trial statistician to allow for 1:1 allocation to receive either instruction to weight-bear as pain allows from the point of randomisation, two weeks after the time of surgery (‘early weight-bearing’ group) or to not weight-bear for a further four weeks (‘delayed weight -bearing’ group). All other treatment will be as per the guidance of the treating clinician. Participants will be asked about their weight-bearing status weekly until four weeks post-randomisation. At four weeks post-randomisation complications will be collected. At six weeks, four months, and 12 months post-randomisation, the OMAS, EQ-5D-5L, complications, physiotherapy input, and resource use will be collected. The primary outcome measure is ankle function (OMAS) at four months post-randomisation. A minimum of 436 participants will be recruited to obtain 80% power to detect a non-inferiority margin of -6 points on the OMAS 4 months post-randomisation. A within-trial health economic evaluation will be conducted to estimate the cost-effectiveness of the treatment options. Discussion The results of this study will inform national guidance with regards to the most clinically and cost-effective strategy for weight-bearing after surgery for unstable ankle fractures. Trial registration ISRCTN12883981, Registered 02 December 2019.

scholarly journals Early weight bearing compared with non-weight bearing functional mobilization after operative treatment of an ankle fracture

2012 ◽  
Vol 7 (1) ◽  
pp. 40-46
Author(s):  
KP Paudel
Keyword(s):  
Internal Fixation ◽  
Operative Treatment ◽  
Ankle Fracture ◽  
Subjective Evaluation ◽  
Weight Bearing ◽  
Randomized Study ◽  
T Test ◽  
Ankle Fractures ◽  
Early Weight Bearing

Ankle fractures are the most common types of fractures treated in orthopaedics. When to begin ankle movement and weight bearing and the type of immobilizing devices to use post-operatively have had more intense clinical study than most other aspects of ankle fracture treatment. Aim of this study is to compare the results of two functional methods of post-operative treatment in internally fixed ankle fractures, i.e. one after early weight bearing using walking plaster and the other after non-weight bearing functional mobilization in the first six weeks following stable internal fixation. This is a prospective, non-randomized study. Between March 2004 and February 2006, thirty- five patients with displaced ankle fractures treated by internal fixation were assigned in a way that every alternate patient fell in different groups. Group A patients, 17, were managed with a below-knee walking plaster and group B patients, 18 with non-weight bearing mobilization with crutches. Five patients were lost in follow up and 30 were followed regularly as in the protocol. There was a temporary benefit in subjective evaluation (63 v 48 points, student t test. P=0.262), return to work (53.8 v 72.9 days, student t test, p=0.079) for those with a below-knee walking plaster at six week. There were minimal differences between the groups in the loss of dorsal range of movement (14.7 v 13.1 degree) or in the overall clinical results at the first follow up. But the differences disappeared in any evaluation after three months. Both treatments were considered to be satisfactory and the treatment choice depends on the ability to mobilize or weight bearing, the type of work and personal preference. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jcmsn.v7i1.5972 JCMSN 2011; 7(1): 40-46

Orthopedic treatment and early weight-bearing for bimalleolar ankle fractures in elderly patients: Quality of life and complications

Injury ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 51 (2) ◽  
pp. 548-553 ◽  
Author(s):  
Alejandro Lorente ◽  
Pablo Palacios ◽  
Rafael Lorente ◽  
Gonzalo Mariscal ◽  
Carlos Barrios ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Quality Of Life ◽  
Elderly Patients ◽  
Weight Bearing ◽  
Ankle Fractures ◽  
Orthopedic Treatment ◽  
Early Weight Bearing

scholarly journals Early Weight Bearing on Weber C Fractures with Retained Syndesmotic Screws

2017 ◽  
Vol 2 (3) ◽  
pp. 2473011417S0000
Author(s):  
Cristian Ortiz ◽  
Andres Keller Díaz ◽  
Pablo Mococain ◽  
Pablo Wagner ◽  
Ruben Radkievich ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Screw Fixation ◽  
Weight Bearing ◽  
Ankle Fractures ◽  
X Rays ◽  
Aofas Score ◽  
Early Weight Bearing ◽  
Clear Space ◽  
Screw Breakage ◽  
The Mean

Category: Ankle, Sports, Trauma Introduction/Purpose: There is no consensus about when to allow weight bearing in ankle fractures treated with syndesmotic screw fixation. There has been no evaluation of the radiographic fate of the syndesmosis when syndesmotic screws are retained and early weight bearing is encouraged, or the clinical result depending on the screw status, which can be intact, broken or loose. Our objective was to evaluate the radiographic and clinical parameters of patients who had a screw fixation of the syndesmosis and early weight bearing was allowed. Our hypothesis was that no difference would be observed on syndesmotic reduction or clinical function depending on the screw status. Methods: We analyzed 42 patients with ankle fractures treated with syndesmotic screws in which early weight bearing was allowed (3 weeks postoperatively). Weight bearing radiographs were obtained at 2 weeks, 2 months and at final follow up (41.2 months). Radiologically we measured medial clear space (MCS), tibiofibular overlap (OL), tibiofibular clear space (CS), talar shift (TS) and screw condition (intact, broken, loose). Clinical function was measured with the AOFAS score and stratified by the screw condition. Statistical analysis was performed with the SPSS software and a non-inferiority confidence interval for the mean was calculated. Results: At final follow up, 66,6% of the screws were broken, 30,9% showed significant loosening and only 1 patient (4,7%) had a screw that remained solid with no signs of osteolysis. MCS at 2 weeks, 2 months and at final follow up was 2,94 mm; 3,03 mm; 3,02, respectively. OL was 6,76 mm; 6,78 mm; 6,83 and CS was 4,26 mm; 4,66 mm; 4,6 mm. No TS was detected. There was no difference in measurements along time (p>0,05). Relative to clinical function, the mean AOFAS score was 95 points. No difference was found between the clinical scores of patients stratified by the screw condition (p>0,05). Conclusion: Early weight bearing on a fixed syndesmosis appears to be safe, with no measurable radiographic or clinical consequences regarding ankle joint function. Despite screw breakage or loosening on x-rays, loss of reduction is seldom observed. We suggest that routine removal of syndesmotic screws is not necessary in these group of patients.

scholarly journals Early weight bearing of displaced ankle fractures

1987 ◽  
Vol 58 (5) ◽  
pp. 535-538 ◽  
Author(s):  
Torbjörn Ahl ◽  
Nils Dalén ◽  
Sven Holmberg ◽  
Göran Selvik
Keyword(s):  
Weight Bearing ◽  
Ankle Fractures ◽  
Early Weight Bearing

scholarly journals Functional bracing is a safe and cost effective treatment for isolated Weber B fracture

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ahmed Abdelaal ◽  
Sherif Elnikety
Keyword(s):  
Weight Bearing ◽  
Cost Effective ◽  
Ankle Fractures ◽  
National Guidelines ◽  
Early Weight Bearing ◽  
Cost Effective Treatment ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Score Method ◽  
Functional Outcome Measures ◽  
The Stability

Abstract BackgroundDespite the current recommendations that stable Weber B ankle fractures can be treated with functional bracing and weightbearing as tolerated, some reluctance exists among trauma surgeons to follow these recommendations. We report on our institution’s experience in managing these injuries and compare it to the national guidelines.Patients and MethodsConsecutive patients with isolated Weber B fractures referred to the local outpatient clinic over the period of six months were included in the study. Radiographs and clinic letters were examined, the patients were interviewed via telephone to obtain outcome scores (Olerud and Molandar score). Method of immobilisation, weightbearing status, radiological fracture union, clinical outcomes and complications were all assessed and analysed.ResultsOne hundred and twenty-three patients with isolated Weber B fractures were identified. This cohort of patients did not show clinical or radiographic evidence of instability, they were deemed stable and were initially treated non-operatively. Minimum follow-up period was six months. Sixty-two patients were treated in plaster and were non-weight bearing on the affected limb, while 61 were treated with functional bracing in a boot and were allowed early weight bearing. Three patients showed displacement requiring surgical fixation. All fractures progressed to union and patients were discharged irrespective of the method of immobilisation or weightbearing status during treatment. There was no statistically significant difference in the functional outcome measures between the two groups. The protocol of functional bracing and weightbearing was associated with fewer outpatient clinics and a reduced number of radiographs obtained in the clinic and fewer complications. ConclusionIsolated trans-syndesmotic Weber B ankle fractures, that are clinically and radiologically stable, can be safely treated with functional bracing in a boot and weightbearing as tolerated. Weightbearing radiographs are reliable in confirming the stability of such fractures.

scholarly journals Impact of Early Weight Bearing on Outcomes after Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of Trimalleolar Ankle Fractures

2020 ◽  
Vol 5 (4) ◽  
pp. 2473011420S0036
Author(s):  
Devon Myers ◽  
Benjamin D. Umbel ◽  
Shane Forsting ◽  
Benjamin C. Taylor ◽  
Sergio H. Pulido
Keyword(s):  
Clinical Outcomes ◽  
Weight Bearing ◽  
Current Trend ◽  
Deep Infection ◽  
Implant Failure ◽  
Ankle Fractures ◽  
Union Rate ◽  
Early Weight Bearing ◽  
Posterior Malleolus ◽  
Ankle Trauma

Category: Ankle; Trauma Introduction/Purpose: There is a current trend to allow earlier weight-bearing of unstable ankle fractures after fixation. This study offers a unique comparison of early (EWB) versus late weight-bearing (LWB) in operatively stabilized trimalleolar ankle fractures. The purpose of this study was to evaluate union rates, clinical outcomes and complications in patients managed with EWB versus LWB. Methods: We performed a retrospective review of 185 patients with trimalleolar ankle fractures who underwent surgical stabilization. Fixation of the posterior malleolus and weight-bearing status were determined by surgeon preference. EWB was defined as ≥3 weeks and LWB was defined as >3 weeks. Patients were evaluated for fracture union and implant failure. Complications and clinical outcomes included ambulatory status, infection rate and return to surgery. Results: There were 47 (25.4%) patients in the EWB group and 138 (74.6%) in the LWB group. There were 7 nonunions, 1 (14.3%) in the EWB and 6 (85.7%) in the LWB group. Seventy-two (38.9%) posterior malleolar fractures were operatively stabilized which did not affect union rates. Syndesmotic fixation was required in 12.5% of patients despite posterior malleolar stabilization. Syndesmotic fixation increased union rate 2.5 times. Deep infection and open fracture decreased union. There was no difference in implant failure, union rate, infection or return to surgery between groups. Conclusion: No deleterious effect of EWB of operatively treated trimalleolar ankle fractures were found with regards to union, implant failure, infection or reoperation. Syndesmotic fixation may offer an advantage to posterior malleolar fixation with improved union rates.

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