[Differentiated protocol for the conservative/surgical treatment of ankle fractures in adults].
OBJECTIVE
Evaluation of the long-term results of protocol treatment of adult patients with ankle fractures.


METHODS
St Elisabeth Hospital, Tilburg, the Netherlands.


METHODS
Retrospective long-term follow-up study.


METHODS
All patients (n = 579) with an ankle fracture (580 fractures) in the period 1985-1989, who had not died soon after the injury and in whom the morbidity was not caused mainly by other conditions (n = 30) were treated according to a protocol which specified the indications for conservative or surgical therapy depending on the particular fracture type. After a median follow-up period of 5 years (range: 2.25-8.17 years) the treatment results could be evaluated in 92% of the patients.


RESULTS
Clinically "good' or "excellent' results ranging from 79-90.5% types A, B and C fractures (according to the Swiss Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen) were achieved.


CONCLUSIONS
A broad indication for conservative, even functional (tape bandaging) treatment and restricted use of implants during osteosynthesis appear justified considering the results obtained.
Van Laarhoven
C J
CJ
Academisch Ziekenhuis, afd, Heelkunde, Utrecht.
Oostvogel
H J
HJ
van der Werken
C
C
D000328:Adult; D016512:Ankle Injuries / Q000145:classification / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery / Q000628:therapy*; D002985:Clinical Protocols; D005260:Female; D005592:Fracture Fixation / Q000379:methods*; D050723:Fractures, Bone / Q000145:classification / Q000601:surgery / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D008137:Longitudinal Studies; D008297:Male; D011859:Radiography; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D016896:Treatment Outcome