Is Postoperative Non-weight-bearing Necessary? INWN Study Protocol for a Pragmatic Randomised Multicentre Trial of Operatively Treated Ankle Fracture

Description

The presentation, led by Ramy Khojaly, an orthopedic registrar and clinical lecturer, discusses the results of the INWN trial, a pragmatic randomized controlled multicenter study examining the safety and effectiveness of immediate weight-bearing following internal fixation of ankle fractures. The trial aimed to determine whether allowing immediate weight-bearing improves functional outcomes compared to traditional non-weight-bearing protocols. Conducted in collaboration between University Hospital Waterford and Cork University Hospital, the study involved 160 patients and focused on various metrics such as complication rates, return to work times, and overall patient satisfaction. Initial findings suggested that patients who participated in the immediate weight-bearing group had better functional scores and earlier return to work, though differences in complication rates between the two groups were not significantly marked. The discussion also addressed potential challenges faced by older patients, as well as the weight and comfort of moon boots versus casts.

DOI: 10.1302/3114-221118

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