Trimalleolar fracture with a double fragment of the posterior malleolus: a case report and modified operative approach to internal fixation

Abstract

Fractures of the medial and lateral malleoli are frequently associated with fractures of the posterior malleolus, comprising trimalleolar fractures. The posterior fragment may be posteromedial or posterolateral and its size determines the necessity for surgical or non-surgical treatment. The authors describe a case of trimalleolar fracture with double involvement of the posterior malleolus, both a posteromedial and posterolateral fragment. A modified transmalleolar operative approach for internal fixation is recommended when dealing with such complex trimalleolar fractures of the ankle.