Management of complex ankle fractures in athletes.

Outcome from complex ankle fractures depends on the severity of the injury, the accuracy of the reduction, and the institution of soft-tissue rehabilitation. The timing of surgery must take into consideration the degree of soft-tissue swelling and the overall condition of the patient. Good operative technique is vital in preventing complications, restoring anatomic relationships, and obtaining rigid stability. In order to diminish time away from sports, the rehabilitation phase should overlap the healing phase.