The talus bone is one of the bones that make up the ankle and is located in the center of the connection between the calf and the foot. This bone fracture usually occurs as a result of a high-impact injury, such as a car accident or a fall from a great height.
The talus plays an important role in the movement of the ankle, so a fracture in it can lead to significant damage to the proper functioning and stability of the ankle. Improperly healed talus fracture can lead to complications and significant impairment in quality of life, including lameness, arthritis and chronic pain. For this reason, many fractures in the thalamus require surgical treatment.
When should surgery be performed?
In most cases after a significant ankle injury, the initial treatment will take effect in the emergency room. After an initial fixation and an X-ray of the joint, the optimal treatment will be decided, depending on the type and severity of the fracture, as well as the stability of the joint.
In cases where the fracture is small and insignificant, after relocation in place, which is usually performed by an orthopedist, it is sometimes possible to make do only with a cast or a special boot. In cases where the fracture is more severe, surgery is required to return the bone parts to their anatomical location and allow them to heal together.
The course of the surgery
Surgical treatment of a talus fracture is designed to allow internal fixation of the bone parts in a stable manner, which allows for the best recovery while reducing the risk of future complications. The most common surgery is to perform an internal fixation with an open return of the ankle area.
During the operation, the fixation is performed with the help of metal pins. In some cases they can be removed from the body after complete recovery of the bone.
Preparation for surgery
Before the operation, an examination must be performed by an orthopedic specialist. In addition, preliminary tests done will be examined, in order to plan the surgery in the best way for you. On occasion it is necessary to perform additional tests before surgery.
If necessary, the discharge letter from the emergency room and relevant X-rays should be provided.
If the operation is performed under general anesthesia, an anesthesiologist must perform an evaluation before the operation. You should be in complete food fast mode as per the instructions of the medical staff.
Postoperative recovery
The more severe the injury, the longer the recovery period is expected to be. After surgery, a cast should be left on for two to eight weeks, depending on the nature of the injury and the rate of personal recovery. In accordance with the doctor's instructions and with the help of repeated X-rays, the rate of return to activity and routine will be determined.
Many doctors encourage an early return to physical movement during the recovery period, as soon as the pain and cast allow it. Getting in early on physical therapy can also improve the range of motion in the foot and ankle, while strengthening the muscles that support the joint.
Complications of a thalassus fracture
Apart from the general complications associated with surgery, which are important to discuss with the surgeon before the procedure, there are two complications that can appear even after surgery: bone necrosis due to damage to the blood supply to the bone (avascular necrosis) and inflammation of the joint, which can develop as a result of posttraumatic arthritis. These complications can lead to significant joint damage and the need for complex treatments and surgeries in the future.
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