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Syndesmosis disruptions linked to negative long-term effects after ankle fracture
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Results from this retrospective study showed more than half of patients had pain and loss of tibiofibular overlap 5 years after syndesmosis screw fixation of ankle fractures with associated syndesmotic disruptions and linked increased patient age with pain and dissatisfaction with the procedure.
Researchers identified 43 adult patients treated at a level 1 trauma center for ankle fractures with syndesmotic disruptions that needed syndesmosis screw fixation. Investigators reviewed patients’ radiographs, results of clinical examinations and questionnaires. Outcomes also included the VAS, Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS), and EuroQol-5D (EQ-5D). Investigators assessed outcomes at 2 months and 3 months after screw removal.
Results showed 26% of patients had degenerative changes after 5 years with a degree of loss of the tibiofibular overlap in 51% of patients. Investigators noted medial clear space widening in 31% of patients. Investigators noted patients who retained syndesmotic reduction had higher FAOS and EQ-5D scores. ‒ by Monica Jaramillo
Disclosures: The researchers report no relevant financial disclosures.
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