Ankle Fracture Classification Systems: A Case for Integration of the Lauge-Hansen and AO- Danis-Weber schemes

Abstract

The two dominant classification systems for ankle frac-tures in use are the Lauge-Hansen and AO-Danis-Weber schemes. Each has certain advantages and disadvan-tages. Because of basic similarities, integration of these systems into one scheme involving three basic patterns with appropriate staging appears to be reasonable. This integration is based upon combining the pronation-abduc-tion and pronation-external rotation injuries in Lauge-Han-sen's scheme into one pronation-abduction-external rotation pattern. The resultant system would appear at-tractive in terms of combining relative simplicity with com-pleteness