Elderly Patients Should All Be Treated In A Plaster (AIM) 

Description

In a captivating talk, Matthew Solan discusses the treatment of ankle fractures, particularly in patients over the age of 60. He engages his audience with a mix of humor and evidence-based insights, beginning by addressing the common perception that surgical fixation is the only viable option for ankle fractures. Instead, he presents compelling data from the AIM study, which suggests that close-contact casting can yield outcomes comparable to surgical intervention for elderly patients. Solan emphasizes the importance of informed consent and shared decision-making, advocating for a wider array of treatment options to be presented to patients.



Throughout his presentation, he highlights the shift in medical practice prompted by new consent guidance from the GMC, which emphasizes the responsibility of healthcare providers to inform patients of all available options, including non-operative treatments.



The discussion delves into the AIM study’s design, its pragmatic approach, and subsequent follow-up data that confirm the effectiveness of casting. However, Solan does not shy away from addressing the limitations of this method, including the potential for complications and the necessity of post-treatment assessments. He concludes by urging practitioners to reconsider their treatment strategies, particularly for older patients, suggesting that plaster casts should remain a viable option in specific cases.



Ultimately, Solan's presentation calls for a more thoughtful, patient-centered approach to orthopedic practice, encouraging healthcare professionals to reflect on the evolving standards of care and the preferences of their patients.

DOI: 10.1302/3114-221507

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