Syndesmosis Ankle Study

Launched by KYLE SCHWESER MD · May 30, 2019

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

The Syndesmosis Ankle Study is examining how soon patients can safely start putting weight on their ankle after surgery for a specific type of ankle fracture known as syndesmotic disruption. Traditionally, doctors have recommended waiting for about 6 weeks before bearing weight on the injured ankle, but this study is testing whether patients can begin to walk on it just 2 weeks after surgery. The goal is to see if early weight bearing affects recovery and healing in the same way as waiting longer.

To participate in this trial, you need to be at least 18 years old and have an ankle fracture that will be treated with a specific surgical technique called suture button fixation. If you qualify, you will be randomly assigned to either start walking on your ankle after 2 weeks or to wait 6 weeks before doing so. Throughout the study, researchers will check on your progress, including your pain levels and how well your ankle is healing. This information will help doctors better understand the best practices for treating this type of injury in the future.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. 18 years of age or older
• • 2. Ankle fracture with suspected syndesmotic disruption that would likely be treated with suture button fixation operative intervention
• • 3. Ability to ambulate preoperatively
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Younger than 18
• • 2. Length unstable syndesmotic injury (i.e. Maisonneuve)
• • 3. Neuropathic diabetics
• • 4. 325 pounds or more
• • 5. Prisoner
• • 6. Pregnant or lactating
• • 7. End stage renal disease
• • 8. Inability to follow commands (dementia, TBI, etc.)
• • 9. Polytrauma patients