Evaluation of functional outcome in closed bimalleolar fracture treated with open reduction & internal fixation

Evaluation of functional outcome in closed bimalleolar fracture treated with open reduction & internal fixation - Background: Ankle fractures are among the common orthopedic injuries with an incidence of approximately 187/100,000 per year among different age groups and genders. Considering ankle injuries to be complex with lesser research done from other institutions on the outcome evaluation, we planned to do an evaluation of the functional outcome of bimalleolar fractures treated with open reduction and internal fixation at our institute. Objective: To evaluate functional outcomes and post-operative complications in Closed Bimalleolar fracture treated with open reduction and internal fixation. Materials and Methods: Patients with Closed Bimalleolar fractures who underwent surgery at Himalayan Hospital between April 2022 to December 2023 were included. Patient's functional outcomes were evaluated using Olerud and Molander scores at 6 weeks and 12 weeks. Post-operative Complications were also evaluated at this time. Results: Restriction of Ankle Dorsiflexion post-surgery was seen in all cases which Improved after 3 months follow-up. Postoperative complications like implant impingement were seen in 3 patients and skin necrosis was seen in 1 patient. Conclusion: Functional outcome in Bimalleolar surgery improved after 12 weeks of open reduction & internal fixation. Syndesmotic screw removal at 8-10 weeks is not necessary even after mobilization of the patient. A long follow-up of 6 months to 12 months is required to comment on the final functional outcome. Keywords: Olerud & Molander scores, Bimalleolar fracture.