Reconstruction of traumatic medial malleolus loss using the bone sliding technique: A case report

Abstract

Introduction: Open injury of the medial malleolus is relatively rare, and it can cause instability of the ankle joint and affect the walking function of the lower extremity. We describe an original plan for the reconstruction of medial malleolus defects using the bone sliding technique and report as follows.

Case presentation: A 48-year-old female presented with an isolated open injury to her right ankle by a traffic accident. The skin of the medial ankle was severely contaminated with mud, and the medial malleolus, part of the Talus's cartilage and soft tissue, were defective. The anterior tibial artery was cut, and the anterior and posterior tibial tendons were ruptured.

Conclusion: We describe the reconstruction of the medial malleolus using a bone sliding technique. At two years follow-up, she had a good outcome with a nearly painless, stable ankle with functional plantarflexion but restricted dorsiflexion. The original method is a new choice for the reconstruction of the medial malleolus.

Keywords: Ankle reconstruction; Bone sliding technique; Case report; Joint stability; Medial malleolus loss; Walking function.