Open ankle dislocations without associated fracture.

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to clarify the intermediate followup results of reduction without soft tissue repair in open ankle dislocations without fracture.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed cases of open isolated ankle dislocations without associated fracture. Five male patients treated between January 2005 and July 2009 were enrolled in this study. Debridement and reduction with primary wound closure of the skin were performed without suture of the capsule or repair of the ligaments. The outcome was evaluated by the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society score (AOFAS). The time period for returning to previous level of activity was also recorded.

RESULTS

The average age of the patients was 34 (range, 27 to 44) years, and the average followup was 4 (range, 2 to 6) years. The average of the last control AOFAS score was 90 (range, 84 to 98) points. Two ankles were rated as excellent, and the other three were rated as good. Patients returned to their previous levels of physical activity at an average of 9 weeks.

CONCLUSION

Favorable long-term results were obtained for reduction without ligament repair in pure ankle dislocations.