Osteoporotic ankle fractures: an approach to operative management.

Abstract

The incidence of osteoporosis is increasing as the elderly population grows. Because these patients remain active, fragility fractures of the ankle are becoming more common. The literature indicates a relatively high complication rate for non-operative management of ankle fractures in this patient cohort, leading surgeons to face challenges unique to patients with poor bone and skin quality. This article discusses techniques to address osteoporotic ankle fractures and reviews the current literature relevant to this issue.