Deltoid Ligament Repair in Addition to Syndesmotic Fixation in Distal Fibula Fractures is Associated with Better Clinical Results in Mid- and- Long-term Follow-up: A Comparative Study

Abstract

Objective:To evaluate mid to long term effects of adding deltoid ligament repair (DLR) to syndesmotic screw fixation (SSF) in the treatment of distal fibula fractures -in terms of functional and radiographic results and quality of life.Method:Seventy-eight patients who underwent SSF or SSF+DLR with the diagnosis of distal fibula fracture in the Maltepe University Hospital, Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology were included in the study retrospectively.Results:71.8% of the cases were male. The mean age was 39.24±11.95 years. The radiographic and functional results and quality of life were better in the SSF+DLR group compared to the SSF group. Additionally, the operation time was longer in the SSF+DLR group.Conclusion:Performing DLR in appropriate cases of distal fibula fracture may contribute to better clinical outcomes in the mid to long term.

Keywords

• ankle
• deltoid ligament repair
• distal fibula fractures
• syndesmosis