Bivalved fiberglass cast compared with plaster splint immobilization for initial management of ankle fracture-dislocations: a treatment algorithm.

UNLABELLED: The initial management of ankle fracture-dislocations is the crucial step in the treatment of these emergent traumatic injuries. A stepwise approach is necessary to properly evaluate, diagnose, and treat ankle fracture-dislocations. The goal of initial management is to evaluate the vascular status of the extremity and then restore proper alignment of the talus underneath the tibia. A retrospective review was performed on 40 patients, who presented to a community-based hospital emergency room, treated by the foot and ankle service for ankle fracture-dislocation. An analysis of patient demographics, injury pattern/classification, number of reduction attempts, and immobilization method was performed and evaluated. This analysis was correlated with a review of the literature to develop an algorithm for the initial management of ankle fracture-dislocations recommending the use of a bivalved below-the-knee fiberglass cast for maintained stabilization post reduction.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic Level IV.