Abstracts Posters SICOT-SOF meeting Gothenburg 2010 _2_

Poster
Topic: Trauma - Ankle / Foot
Abstract number: 26405
MODIFICATION OF EXTERNAL FIXATION IN THE TREATMENT OF ANKLE AND
TIBIAL PILON FRACTURES
Matthias BLANKE, Carl KOLVENBACH, Dominik HORNUNG, Alexander OLK
Department of Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery, Erlangen (GERMANY)
Introduction: Is there a possibility of a prematurely mobilisation after ankle fractures
using a modified complentary external fixator with titanium sole? Material and
Methods: Between 2008 and 2009 6 pilon and 10 ankle fracture dislocations have
been operated at our Department using a primary complentary external fixator
modified with a titanium sole.In the patient population were AO-Classification Type
43-C and -B fractures. Due to the fact of a distinctive osteoporosis there was the
initial indication to use a external fixation. Because of the impracticality of half weight
bearing titanium sole was amended. To comprehend the constriction the Barthel-
Index was used before and after modification. Showing radiological assured fracture
union the external fixator was removed after 10,00 ± 2,58 weeks. A clinical
examination was done using the Olerud/Molander Score afterwards. Results: All of
the operated patients with modification of the external fixator could be mobilised
under full weight bearing.Not any of the patients ran into complications regarding to
immobilisation. The Barthel-Index before modification (63,12 ± 4,42) could be
improved afterwards (81,87 ± 3,59). A constricted mobility in the ankle was shown at
the first follow up examinations (Olerud/Molander Score 55,62 ± 8,73) which showed
normalisation in further progression (63,43 ± 5,39). Conclusion: Using a modification
of external fixation via titanium sole in the treatment of ankle fractures particularly
with regard to senior or in coordination restricted patients a prematurely mobilisation
could be achieved.Complications regarding to longer immobilisation could be
minimized.
513