Functional bracing safe and cost effective treatment for isolated Weber B fracture: Study

Despite the current recommendations that stable Weber B ankle fractures can be treated with functional bracing and weight bearing as tolerated, some reluctance exists among trauma surgeons to follow these recommendations. The paper by Ahmed Abdelaal & Sherif Elnikety reports on their institution's experience in managing these injuries and compares it to the national guidelines.

This is a retrospective cohort study. Consecutive patients with isolated Weber B fractures referred to the local outpatient clinic over the period of six months were included in the study. Radiographs and clinic letters were examined, the patients were interviewed via telephone to obtain outcome scores [Olerud and Molander score]. Method of immobilisation, weight-bearing status, radiological fracture union, clinical outcomes and complications were all assessed and analysed.

Results:

• 123 patients with isolated Weber B fractures were identified.

• This cohort of patients did not show clinical or radiographic evidence of instability, they were deemed stable and were initially treated non-operatively.

• Minimum follow-up period was six months.

• 62 were treated in plaster and was non-weight bearing on the affected limb, while 61 were treated with functional bracing in a boot and were allowed early weight bearing.