Conservative Management of Transitional Ankle Fractures in Adolescents: A Pilot Study to Determine Whether Type of Immobilization Affects Outcome

Abstract

Intra-articular Tillaux and triplane ankle fractures are treated surgically when displaced. Minimally displaced fractures are treated with immobilization alone. Long leg casts (LLCs) are the most traditional method of immobilization because they can prevent weight bearing by flexing the knee and control ankle rotation. However, they also are heavy, decrease mobility, increase the area for contact dermatitis, and increase knee stiffness. Short leg casts (SLCs) may be adequate for these injuries. This study compared outcomes of adolescents with transitional ankle fractures treated in LLCs vs SLCs. All transitional ankle fractures treated with immobilization during 11 years at a multicenter children's health system were reviewed. Patients were grouped based on initial treatment with LLC vs SLC. Cases were analyzed for differences in demographics, length of treatment, weight-bearing status, outcomes, and complications. A total of 159 patients met inclusion criteria. Sixty-five were treated initially with LLCs and 94 were treated initially with SLCs, with no significant age difference between the groups. Computed tomography scans had been obtained for 55.4% of the patients with LLCs vs 29.8% of the patients with SLCs. Mean time in the initial cast was 24 days for both groups. Mean total time in any cast was 40 days for the LLC group vs 29 days for the SLC group. Mean time to weight bearing was 7 days shorter and return to full activity was 12 days shorter in the SLC group. There were no cases of fracture displacement, malunion, nonunion, or functional limitations. [ Orthopedics . 2023;46(4):230–233.]