Abstract
PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcome of conservative treatment for minimal displaced lateral mallolar fracture using ankle brace.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eleven patients (eleven ankles) underwent conservative treatment with ankle brace for 8 weeks with full weight bearing ambulation. Inclusion criteria were minimal displacement (<3 mm) of fracture, no or mild tenderness or swelling on medial malleolar area and no lateral shift of talus. The patients were evaluated with AOFAS (the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle society) Ankle-Hindfoot scale.
RESULTS: Average follow up was 103 weeks (36~192). All cases had normal range of motion of ankle. The average score of AOFAS Ankle-Hindfoot scale was 95 points.
CONCLUSION: The advantages of conservative treatment with ankle brace were early return to daily activity and work, comfort to the patients and a short period of rehabilitation. Conservative treatment with ankle brace for minimal displaced lateral malleolar fracture is recommended.