Is surgery recommended for my daughter's ankle injury?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am inquiring regarding the need for surgery for my daughter's ankle injury. She has been experiencing pain and instability in her left ankle for six weeks following an injury, with recurring swelling and bruising. Additionally, she had an adulation fracture four years ago. Please help.

Thank you in advance.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Surgery is not recommended for sprains in a 14-year-old patient, as most injuries tend to heal on their own. Only a small percentage may necessitate surgical intervention, particularly for ligament reconstruction and repair. Please provide the MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan film for a more thorough evaluation and accurate commentary.

I hope this helps.

Kindly revert in case of any further queries so that I can assist you further.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Please send the MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) films via email. In younger patients, even with complete tear cases, there is a chance of natural healing since the body is still in a growth phase. However, if the alignment is disrupted or the gap between the fibers of the complete tear is significant, surgery may be necessary. A conclusive comment can only be made after comparing the current MRI film with a normal one. Partial and split-thickness tears usually do not necessitate surgery. Considering your approximately six-week pain and the age of the injury, I suggest the ligament may have degenerated, likely requiring surgery. However, I need to examine the MRI films to provide the best suggestion.

Looking forward to receiving the MRI films.

Please revert.

Thank you.

Answer 3

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Thank you for the reports (attachments removed to protect the patient's identity). The images have been downloaded using the provided code. Analyzing them will take some time as there are more than 300 images. Typically, in India, scans are presented in a condensed collage on just three to four sheets of film, making them easy to share by taking a photo. Please allow me some time to analyze and respond. Some of the images are in an unsupported format on my computer system.

As mentioned in my previous reply, given your approximately six weeks of pain and the age of the injury, it seems likely that the ligament has degenerated, and I suggest a surgical repair may be necessary. I will provide a more detailed response once the analysis is complete.

I hope this helps.

Please revert in case of further queries.

Thank you.