The treatment of unstable fractures of the ankle in the elderly.

It is now widely accepted that the best results of treating unstable fracture-subluxations of the ankle follow accurate and secure internal fixation and early use of the part. This study of 31 operations on ankles in persons over the age of 65 shows that although satisfactory results were achieved in 58 per cent of elderly patients, poor results are likely when osteoporosis prevents adequate fixation.