OBJECTIVETo explore clinical outcome of locked fibular nail in treating lateral malleolus fractures in elderly patients with diabetes.

METHODSFrom July 2012 to July 2014, clinical data of 22 diabetic patients with lateral malleolus fractures were respectively analyzed, including 15 females and 7 males, aged from 62 to 84 years old with an average of (69.3±13.7) years old. According to Danis-Weber classification, 2 cases were type A, 13 cases were type B, 5 cases were type C, and 2 cases were other type. All patients were reduced and fixed with Acumed locked fibular nail through a minimally invasive approach. Complication and fracture healing was recorded after operation. Clinical function was evaluated according to AOFAS.

RESULTSAll patients were followed up from 12 to 24 months with an average of (17.3±5.9) months. All incisions were healed at stage I. No wound complication, neurovascular or tendon injuries occurred. No fixation loss or discomfort of nail was reported. All patients achieved primary bone union, and healing time ranged from 8 to 14 weeks with an average of (10.3±3.9) weeks. AOFAS score was 87.4±5.2 at 1 year after operation 9 cases got excellent results and 12 cases good.

CONCLUSIONSFor elderly diabetic patients with lateral malleolus fractures, locked fibular nail has advantages of effective and stable fixation, high rate of bone healing, short healing time, less complication, and could obtain satisfied clinical effect.