Abstract

Clinical and radiographical follow-up 1-6 yr after surgery in 329 cases of malleolar fracture in athletes and non-athletes is described. Fractures were classified according to Lauge-Hansen and Weber. The second of these classifications is undoubtedly more practical, and enables precise indications for surgery to be established when employed with the Hierton-Olerud-Weber diagram.The principles of the AO school were applied in a somewhat less rigid manner in choosing the operative technique and postoperative treatment, since accountwas taken of age, sex, type of activity, and physical constitution, as well asthe radiographical and clinical picture. Follow-up revealed a very high percentage of excellent and good results (97,4 in athletes, 85,2 in non-athletes). This substantiates the soundness of the surgical indications, and the reduction and osteosynthesis techniques, which were followed by suitable postoperative treatment, these steps being indispensable if good, lasting results are to be obtained. Verf.-Referat