Characteristics and Treatment Strategies for Ankle Fractures in Diabetic Patients
10.14193/jkfas.2025.29.4.146
- Author:
Su-Young BAE
1
;
Hoon-Jong JEON
Author Information
1. Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sanggye Paik Hospital, Inje University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Publication Type:Review Article
- From:Journal of Korean Foot and Ankle Society
2025;29(4):146-150
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
The prevalence of diabetes mellitus in Korea is steadily increasing, currently affecting more than 15% of adults aged 30 and older, with a particularly notable rise among younger adults. This epidemiological trend, coupled with an aging population, coincides with a rising incidence of ankle fractures. Diabetic patients suffer from compromised bone quality and impaired healing mechanisms driven by hyperglycemia, advanced glycation end-products (AGEs), and neuropathy. These factors significantly increase the risk of delayed union, nonunion, and postoperative infection compared to the general population. This review outlines the pathophysiology and updated treatment strategies for optimizing the outcomes of diabetic ankle fractures.
