Maisonneuve's fracture Save

Maisonneuve's Fracture: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Maisonneuve's Fracture is a type of ankle injury that occurs when the fibula bone in the lower leg is broken. This injury is often caused by a twisting force applied to the ankle, which causes the foot to rotate outwards while the leg remains stable. The injury is named after the French surgeon who first described it, Jules Germain François Maisonneuve.

Causes

The most common cause of a Maisonneuve's Fracture is a high-impact injury to the ankle, such as a fall or a sports-related injury. This type of fracture is also commonly associated with ankle sprains, in which the ligaments in the ankle are stretched or torn. When the ankle is sprained, the force can be strong enough to cause the fibula to fracture.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of a Maisonneuve's Fracture include severe pain, swelling, and bruising around the ankle. Patients may also experience difficulty bearing weight on the affected leg, and the ankle may feel unstable or wobbly. In some cases, patients may also experience numbness or tingling in the foot or ankle.

Treatment

Treatment for a Maisonneuve's Fracture typically involves immobilizing the affected leg with a cast or brace, in order to allow the bone to heal. In some cases, surgery may be required to realign the bones and stabilize the ankle. Patients may also be prescribed pain medication and instructed to rest and elevate the affected leg as much as possible.

1. Immobilization: The first step in treating a Maisonneuve's Fracture is to immobilize the affected leg with a cast or brace. This will help to protect the bone and prevent further injury.
2. Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to realign the bones and stabilize the ankle. This is often the case if the fracture is severe or if there is significant ligament damage.
3. Pain Management: Patients may be prescribed pain medication to help manage the discomfort associated with this type of injury. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen may also be effective.
4. Rest and Elevation: Patients should rest the affected leg as much as possible and elevate it above heart level to reduce swelling and promote healing.

If you suspect that you may have a Maisonneuve's Fracture, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Prompt treatment can help to minimize pain and discomfort, and can help to prevent long-term complications such as chronic ankle instability or arthritis.