Ankle Fracture in Children

GENERAL INFORMATION:

What is an ankle fracture? An ankle fracture (FRAK-chur) is a break in one or more of the bones in your child's ankle. It may also be called a broken ankle. The ankle is a joint formed where the tibia, fibula, and the talus meet. The tibia (shin bone) and fibula (smaller leg bone) are the two bones in the lower leg. The talus bone is a square flat bone at the top of the foot.

What causes an ankle fracture? Your child can break his ankle if his foot twists or bends upward. Broken ankles may occur because of a fall, direct blow, or car accident. Your child's ankle may be injured while playing sports, such as football. Bone diseases, such as osteogenesis imperfecta (brittle bone disease), may also cause fractures in children.

What are the signs and symptoms of an ankle fracture? Your child may have pain and swelling in the injured ankle. The ankle may be bruised and the bones may look out of place. He may have a hard time moving his foot. Your child may limp, refuse to walk, or be unable to put any weight on the injured ankle.

How is an ankle fracture diagnosed? Your child may have one or more of the following:

• X-rays: Your child may need x-rays of the ankle and foot to check for broken bones. Several pictures may be taken of the bones in your child's ankle and foot. X-rays of both your child's injured and uninjured ankles may be taken.
  
  
• Computerized tomography scan: This test is also called a CT or CAT scan. This is a type of x-ray that uses computers to take pictures of your child's leg, ankle, and foot. Your child may be given a dye before the pictures are taken to help caregivers see the pictures better. People who are allergic to iodine or shellfish (lobster, crab, or shrimp) may be allergic to some dyes. Tell your child's caregiver if your child is allergic to shellfish or has other allergies or medical conditions.
  
  
• Magnetic resonance imaging scan: This test is also called an MRI. The test uses magnetic waves to take pictures of your child's leg, ankle, and foot.

• Devices: Keeping the broken foot from moving is very important. A cast may be put on your child's ankle, foot, and leg to keep the bones from moving.
  
  
• Medicine: Medicines may be given to help with your child's pain. Your child may need antibiotic medicine or a tetanus shot if skin has been cut.
  
  
• Surgery: An ankle fracture that is severe or does not heal with other treatments may need surgery. Surgery helps return bones to their normal position by putting them together with wires, metal plates or screws.

• American Academy of Family Physicians
  PO Box 11210
  Shawnee Mission, KS 66207-1210
  Phone: 1-913-906-6000
  Web Address: http://www.aafp.org
  

• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
  6300 North River Road
  Rosemont, IL 600184262
  Phone: 1-847-8237186
  Web Address: http://www.aaos.org/