Minimal osteosynthesis of lateral malleolar fractures.

An oblique fracture of the lateral malleolus caused by a supination-external rotation injury (Danis-Weber type B) is the most common ankle fracture and is preferably treated operatively. Interfragmentary compression and lateral plating are generally used as the method of osteosynthesis. As an alternative two posteriorly inserted lag screws in the antero-posterior direction were used in 18 patients. In all but one good to excellent results as regards pain, function and radiographic appearance were achieved. The advantages of less extensive dissection, smaller amounts of foreign material and shorter operation time tend to make this the technique of choice for this type of fracture.