• INTRODUCTION
    • Ankle fracture is the most common intra-articular fracture of a weight-bearing joint and accounts for 9% of all fractures. Ankle fractures are classified into 3 subgroups: unimalleolar, bimalleolar, and trimalleolar fractures. Accurate reduction and stable internal fixation is necessary in bimalleolar fractures; otherwise, it may lead to posttraumatic painful restriction of movements or osteoarthritis. The purpose of this study is to assess the functional outcome and results of treatment of neglected bimalleolar fracture.
  • MATERIALS AND METHODS
    • Seventeen neglected bimalleolar fracture patients were treated with open reduction and internal fixation. Patients were followed-up at 1, 2, and 5 years and functional ability was assessed by using the modified Weber Rating Scale.
  • RESULTS
    • The mean age of patients was 41.4 ± 13.28 years. After 2 year of surgery, 13 out of 17 patients showed excellent results and 4 patients had fair results.
  • CONCLUSION
    • Good to excellent functional results were observed after long-term follow-up in neglected bimalleolar fracture treated with open reduction and internal fixation, and we advise surgical intervention in all such patients.
  • LEVELS OF EVIDENCE
    • Therapeutic, Level III: Retrospective Cohort study.