The effect of different methods of stability assessment on fixation rate and complications in supination external rotation (SER) 2/4 XXXX .

@entity1 @entity625 @entity13060 @entity1171 @entity1642
BACKGROUND: Distinguishing stable supination-external rotation (SER) 2 from unstable SER 4 @entity1171 , using standard radiographs, is controversial. Examination under anaesthesia (EUA), @entity1642 ( @entity1642 ) and weight-bearing (WB) radiographs can aid surgical decision-making. We evaluated the effect of three methods of fracture stability assessment. METHODS: Radiographs and case-notes of 312 consecutive @entity1 with @entity13060 /4 fractures were reviewed. We recorded ankle stability assessment (plain film (PF) and EUA vs. @entity1642 vs. WB radiographs), management (conservative vs. operative), unplanned surgery and complications. RESULTS: Forty five percent assessed with @entity1642 underwent surgery (6% for PF/EUA, 4% for WB; P=0.0001). Amongst @entity1642 @entity1 , 11% underwent additional surgery (0.1% PF/EUA, 0% WB; P=0.0001). Complications occurred in 2% of the WB group (8% for PF/EUA, 22% for @entity1642 ; P=0.007). CONCLUSION: This study associates @entity1642 assessment with higher rates of surgery and complications. Subsequent studies may determine the longer term effect stability assessments have on post-traumatic @entity625 .
