Overview
Fixation of an ankle fracture realigns the broken bones and secures them with plates and screws, restoring the alignment of the ankle joint so it can heal and function normally.
What the Procedure Involves
- Realignment of the fractured bones
- Plate-and-screw fixation of the malleoli
- Stabilization of the syndesmosis (the ligament junction) when injured
- Outpatient or short-stay procedure
Who It's For
- Displaced or unstable ankle fractures
- Fractures involving more than one bone or the joint alignment
- Injuries where the alignment cannot be held without surgery
Recovery & Rehabilitation
A period of protected, often non-weight-bearing recovery in a splint or boot is followed by motion and progressive weight-bearing as the bone heals over about 6–12 weeks.
Physical Therapy Protocol
Rehabilitation protocol PDF ↗This page is for general education and is not a substitute for a medical evaluation. The right procedure depends on your individual diagnosis, anatomy, and goals. Kevin O'Donnell, MD serves Coral Gables, Miami, Brickell, Pinecrest, Coconut Grove.