Ankle fractures. Tricortical versus quadricortical screw fixation

Summary

Evidence from two randomized controlled trials suggests that tricortical screw fixation may be sufficient compared with quadricortical screw fixation for ankle fractures. It is unclear whether loss of reduction is greater for tricortical or quadricortical screws. Data from one small study suggests slightly improved functional scores after 3 months among patients treated with tricotical screw fixation, but not after 1 year. No differences between the two treatments were found for dorsiflexion or complications (revision surgery, infection, other complications).Verification of these findings in additional trials is recommended.