Ankle fractures are one of the most common orthopedic injuries, often occurring as a result of sports accidents, falls, or car accidents. The injury involves a break in one or more of the bones in the ankle joint, which can lead to severe pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking or bearing weight on the affected leg. When conservative treatments such as rest and immobilization are not enough, ankle fracture singapore surgery may be required to restore the normal function.
How is Foot Fracture Singapore Diagnosed?
Diagnosing a foot fracture begins with a thorough physical examination by an orthopedic specialist. The doctor will assess symptoms such as pain, swelling, bruising, and any difficulty in moving or bearing weight on the foot. During the examination, the doctor will also check for tenderness, misalignment, or deformity in the foot, which may indicate a fracture.
Imaging tests are typically conducted to confirm the diagnosis. **X-rays** are the primary diagnostic tool, allowing the doctor to clearly see any bone fractures, their location, and severity. In some cases, if the fracture is not visible on X-rays, or if soft tissue damage is suspected, **CT scans** or **MRI scans** may be recommended. These imaging techniques offer detailed views of the bones and soft tissues, helping to identify hairline fractures, ligament or tendon injuries, and other associated damage.
Once a diagnosis is confirmed, the doctor will discuss the best treatment options, which may include casting, splinting, or surgery, depending on the fracture’s severity.
What are Ankle Fracture Treatment Singapore Options?
Ankle fractures require prompt treatment to restore function and prevent complications. The treatment approach depends on the type, severity, and location of the fracture. Common treatment options include:
- Conservative Treatment (Non-Surgical)
For minor fractures or stable injuries where the bones are not displaced, non-surgical treatments are often effective. These include:
- Rest and Elevation: The injured foot should be elevated to reduce swelling.
- Ice: Applying ice helps reduce swelling and pain.
- Immobilization: A cast or splint is applied to keep the ankle stable and allow the bones to heal in the correct position. Crutches are used to avoid putting weight on the injured foot.
- Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort during the healing process.
- Surgical Treatment (When Necessary)
If the ankle fracture is severe, displaced, or involves joint instability, surgery may be required to realign the bones. The most common surgical options are:
- Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF): This procedure involves making an incision to reposition the fractured bones and secure them with screws, plates, or rods to maintain proper alignment.
- External Fixation: Used for complex fractures or severe swelling, external fixation involves securing the bones with pins and an external frame.
- Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy
Once the bone has healed, physical therapy helps restore mobility, strength, and function. This includes exercises to improve flexibility, balance, and strength.
Who needs Ankle Fracture Surgery?
Ankle fracture surgery is typically needed for individuals with fractures that are severe, displaced, or involve joint instability. Here are some common scenarios where surgery is necessary:
- Displaced Fractures: If the bones are out of alignment (displaced), surgery is required to realign them properly. Misaligned bones can prevent the ankle from healing correctly and lead to long-term mobility issues.
- Multiple Bone Fractures: In cases where more than one bone in the ankle is fractured, surgery may be needed to stabilize the joint and ensure proper healing.
- Bimalleolar or Trimalleolar Fractures: These fractures involve both or all three bones of the ankle (the tibia, fibula, and the posterior malleolus) and typically require surgery to restore stability and function.
- Open Fractures: If the fracture breaks through the skin, it is considered an open fracture. Surgery is required to clean the wound, realign the bones, and prevent infection.
- Severe Ligament Damage: When a fracture is accompanied by significant ligament or soft tissue damage, surgery may be necessary to repair or reconstruct the ligaments for joint stability.
