- Danis-Weber classification
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The Danis-Weber classification (often known just as the Weber classification) is a method of describing Ankle fractures. It has 3 categories:[1]
- A
- Fracture of the lateral malleolus distal to the syndesmosis (the connection between the distal ends of the tibia and fibula).
* below level of the ankle joint * tibiofibular syndesmosis intact * deltoid ligament intact * medial malleolus often fractured * usually stable : occasionally nonetheless requires an open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF)
- B
- Fracture of the fibula at the level of the syndesmosis
* at the level of the ankle joint, extending superiorly and laterally up the fibula * tibiofibular syndesmosis intact or only partially torn, but no widening of the distal tibiofibular articulation * medial malleolus may be fractured or deltoid ligament my be torn * variable stability
- C
- Fracture of the fibula proximal to the syndesmosis.
* above the level of the ankle joint * tibiofibular syndesmosis disrupted with widening of the distal tibiofibular articulation * medial malleolus fracture or deltoid ligament injury present * unstable : requires ORIF
Categories B and C imply a degree of damage to the syndesmosis itself (which cannot be directly visualised on X-ray). They are inherently unstable and are more likely to require operative repair to achieve a good outcome. Type A fractures are usually stable and can be managed with simple measures, such as a plaster of paris cast.
References
Categories:- Bone fractures
- Musculoskeletal system stubs
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