Foot & ankle international
-
Fracture of the tibial plafond, such as in a trimalleolar fracture, with a large posterior tibial (posterior malleolus) fragment may require open reduction and internal fixation. Anatomic reduction of the articular surface can be ensured by visualizing the articular surface using an arthroscope during reduction. Four cases wherein this technique has proven effective are described.
-
Fractures and dislocations of the foot and ankle in diabetics associated with Charcot joint changes.
This study was undertaken to evaluate the occurrence of Charcot joint changes in diabetic patients after fractures and/or dislocations of the foot and ankle. There were 20 fracture/dislocations of the foot and ankle in 18 patients, with an average follow-up of 27 months (range 14-70 months). There were eight fractures of the midfoot, six fractures of the ankle, four fractures of the hindfoot, and two fractures of the forefoot. ⋯ Two fractures, both open injuries, developed soft tissue infection and osteomyelitis, respectively. Of the 11 fractures in which there was a delay in diagnosis and treatment, eight developed Charcot changes. The early recognition and appropriate treatment of fractures in diabetic patients appears to be important in the prevention of Charcot joint changes.