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- Talk
- 21/09/2021
- UK
Posterior Malleolar Fractures: An Evolution (2021 Conference Presentation)
Description
The presentation delivered by Lyndon Mason at the British Association showcases the evolution of understanding and managing posterior malleolar fractures, drawing on over five years of research and collaboration with his colleagues. Mason begins his talk with gratitude to the chairman and recalls his much simpler virtual presentation from the previous year, emphasizing the ceremonial aspects he missed, like wearing a gown.
As the talk transitions into specifics, Mason emphasizes the critical clinical and anatomical foundations of his study, highlighting the tradition of clinical investigation upheld by the Hunterian society. He presents alarming findings from audits in 2013 that revealed one-third of ankle fracture patients were improperly treated, a trend that worsened despite educational efforts. This highlights a systemic issue where interventions, particularly when conducted unsupervised, can lead to detrimental outcomes.
Mason highlights various types of posterior malleolar fractures, presenting diagnostic challenges and the essential use of CT scans to ascertain the extent of injuries. He argues against outdated beliefs regarding the necessity of surgical intervention based on the size of the fracture. Instead, the focus shifts to the unique mechanisms behind injuries that affect these fractures, showing how traditional categorizations may mislead treatment approaches.
He explains how the experience of other trauma centers leads to a consensus that addresses malreduction rates and advocates for careful assessment and tailored surgical approaches, including the importance of addressing syndesmosis injuries as they may not always accompany posterior malleolar fractures.
Ultimately, Mason calls upon surgeons to adopt modern techniques, like fragment-specific fixation and effective imaging strategies, to improve patient outcomes dramatically. He ends his presentation by reflecting on the complexities still present in treating these fractures and suggests that further inquiry into die-punch injuries is needed to enhance surgical outcomes. The presentation concludes with appreciation from the audience, leaving an impactful discourse on orthopedic advances.