2. Overview
The surgical procedure is used to correct the fracture of the fibula or tibia in the
ankle joint. The procedure involves attachment of a fixation plate made of
stainless steel or titanium to the fibula and use of screws or fixation plate on the
tibia to the stabilize the bones and allow healing.
Preparation
The patient is positioned so that the ankle is clearly visible to the surgeon. An IV
and anesthesia is administered. The area is cleaned and sterilized.
1. Accessing the Ankle
If the fibula is fractured , an incision is made on the outer side of the ankle to
allow the physician to access the fubula. Any small bone fragments resulting
from the fracture are removed.
2. Repairing the Febula
A fixation plate is inserted into the ankle joint and positioned over the fibula.
Surgical screws are inserted to hold the fixation plate in place.
3. Repairing the Tibia
If the tibia is fractured , an incision is made on the inner side of the ankle to
allow the physician access to the bone. Any small bone fragments resulting
from the fracture are removed. One or more surgical screws are inserted into
the bone. If the fracture is severe, a fixation plate also may be needed.
End of Procedure and After Care
The incision is closed with sutures or surgical staples. The ankle is bandaged and
placed in a splint. Eventually, patient will be required to wear a cast or boot.
Patient should avoid putting weight on the foot for 3 to 10 weeks after the
surgery. physical therapy may be required before the patient can return to
normal activities.
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3. Overview
An ankle sprain occurs when one or more ligaments –fibrous brands of tissue that provide stability to
the joint-are stretched or torn from excessive force such as sudden twisting during sports, stepping on
uneven surface, or blow to the ankle
TYPES OF SPRAINS
Lateral version
Over 85% of all ankle sprains occur when the foot rolls outward (inversion ), Injuring the ligaments on the
lateral, or outside, of the ankle. The anterior talofibular is the most commonly injured ligament.
Medial Eversion
Occurs when the foot rolls inward (eversion), injuring the ligaments on the medical, or inside, of the
ankle.
Syndesmosis (High Ankle)
The least common of all ankle sprains, This injury occurs in the upper part of the ankle when the foot
rolls inward, accompanied by internal rotation of tibia. It most often occurs in contact sports.
Degrees of injury
Ankle sprains are generally ”graded” according to the extent of injury: A first degree sprain is an injury in
which one or more ligaments are stretched, accompanied by mild
pain, bruising, inflammation, difficulty walking and tenderness. A second degree sprain occurs when
one or more ligaments are partially torn, producing moderate pain and disability, bruising inflammation
and the inability to beat weight. A third degree sprain is an injury in which one or more ligaments are
completely torn resulting in severe pain and swelling, bruising, joint instability, and loss of function
Treatment
Acute ankle sprains should be treated with RICE-rest, ice, compression and elevation and non-steriodal
inflammatory drugs to decrease swelling and pain. Depending on the degree of injury, a brace cast or
walking boot may be needed. Early rehabilitation with home exercise or formal physical therapy can
improve range of motion and speed healing
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4. Overview
This minimally invasive procedure is used to repair damaged cartilage in the ankle joint.
Expanding the joint
Small incisions are made on each side of front of the ankle. Fluid is injected into the joint.
This expands the joint, giving the surgeon a clear view and room to work. One or two
additional incisions may be necessary.
2.Inspection
The surgeon inserts an arthroscope-which has a fiber optic light and small television camera.
With the video images as a guide, the surgeon identifies the damaged area.
3. Damaged Area Removed
With special tools, the damaged cartilage is removed.
4.Repair Cartilage
The surgeon may drill the exposed bone to create bleeding. When the blood clots, it will
eventually turn into repair cartilage. Repair cartilage is not as good as the original, but it helps
keep smooth movement within the joint.
5.Incisions Closed
After the instruments are removed the surgeon may close the incisions with stitches or tape.
Recovery from arthroscopy usually is faster than recovery from traditional open joint surgery.
End of Procedure and After Care
Following surgery, the joint may be sore or swollen for 4 to 6 weeks . Depending on the
extent of injury and treatment, patients may be allowed to stand with crutches, they may be
instructed to wear a walking cast or splint, or they may have to keep off their feet for several
weeks.
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