Tibiotalocalcaneal Arthrodesis vs Open Reduction Internal Fixation for Trimalleolar Ankle Fractures in High-Risk Patients: A National Database Analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Trimalleolar ankle fractures pose a challenge for surgical management, especially in high-risk populations such as the elderly and patients with comorbidities. Surgeons traditionally employ open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) to manage these injuries; however, some recent studies advocate for tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis (TTCA) as an alternative that minimizes soft tissue disruption and facilitates earlier weightbearing. This study compares complication and readmission rates associated with ORIF and TTCA in managing trimalleolar fractures, providing insight on complication risks throughout this patient population.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed using the 2016-2021 Nationwide Readmissions Database. Adult patients (≥18 years) diagnosed with tri

SUBMITTER: Dawar A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12484919 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature