Abstract

Aim: To determine if there is a relationship between the size of the fractured medial malleolus and deltoid ligament injury, as well as the occurrence of a deltoid ligament injury in bimalleolar supination-external rotation-type fractures.
Methodology: Following a medical and radiographic identification of ankle fractures of the bimalleolar supination-external rotation type, 20 consecutive patients underwent magnetic resonance tests.
Results: 11 (51%) of those with bimalleolar ankle fractures also had deltoid ligament injuries. Six patients (26.8%) had partial injuries, and three patients (23%) had complete injuries. In the absence of deltoid ligament damage, the average length of the medial fragment was 2.87 cm. On average, partial injuries measured 1.92 cm and complete injuries 2.0 cm.
Conclusion: In 51% of ankle fractures caused by bimalleolar, the deltoid ligament was injured. The anterior colliculus and smaller medial malleolus fragments showed a stronger correlation with incomplete deltoid ligament damage.

Key words: Ankle fractures, Ankle, Magnetic resonance imaging, Ligaments