title: The use of T-LCP (locking compression plate) for the treatment of the lateral malleolar fractures.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The authors evaluated results and hardware-related complications after the fixation of Danis-Weber (D-W) types A and B lateral malleolus fractures using a 3.5-mm T-shaped locking compression plate (T-LCP) for distal radius.
  
  
  METHODS
  Twenty-six patients with Danis-Weber type A or B lateral malleolar fractures treated between January 2001 and February 2008 were included in this study. Mean age of the patients was 52.6 (28-77) years. All patients were treated using a 3.5-mm T-shaped locking plate for distal radius fractures. The distal fragment was fixed with at least 2 locking screws more. Ankle motion was allowed early after surgery. The authors evaluated serial radiographs, range of motion, skin irritation, and AOFAS scores at final follow-ups.
  
  
  RESULTS
  All fractures united during follow-up. Eight cases were of D-W type A, and 18 were of D-W type B. A mean number of three screws were placed at the distal fragment (2-4). There were 6 cases (23.1%) of implant irritation over the operative site, but no other complications were encountered. At final follow-ups, the AOFAS score of affected ankles was 97.1 ± 4.4.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  T-LCP use for type A or B lateral malleolar fractures resulted in low hardware-related complications and produced good results at follow-up.
authors: Institute of Trauma Research and Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Guro Hospital, College of Medicine, Korea University, 80 Gurodong, Gurogu, Seoul, 152-703, Korea.
authors: Hak Jun
authors: HJ
authors: Kim
authors: Jong-Keon
authors: JK
authors: Oh
authors: Jin-Ho
authors: JH
authors: Hwang
authors: Young Hwan
authors: YH
authors: Park
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D064386:Ankle Fractures; D001860:Bone Plates; D001863:Bone Screws; D005260:Female; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012189:Retrospective Studies