Danis–Weber classification

The Danis–Weber classification (often known just as the Weber classification) is a method of describing ankle fractures. It has three categories:[1]

Type A
Danis–Weber classification of ankle fractures (Types A, B and C)
Danis–Weber classification on X-ray.

Fracture of the lateral malleolus distal to the syndesmosis (the connection between the distal ends of the tibia and fibula). Typical features:

  • below level of the ankle joint
  • tibiofibular syndesmosis intact
  • deltoid ligament intact
  • medial malleolus occasionally fractured
  • usually stable: occasionally nonetheless requires an open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) particularly if medial malleolus fractured
Type B

Fracture of the fibula at the level of the syndesmosis. Typical features:

  • at the level of the ankle joint, extending superiorly and laterally up the fibula
  • tibiofibular syndesmosis intact or only partially torn, but no widening of the distal tibiofibular articulation
  • medial malleolus may be fractured or deltoid ligament may be torn
  • variable stability
Type C

Fracture of the fibula proximal to the syndesmosis. Typical features:

  • above the level of the ankle joint
  • tibiofibular syndesmosis disrupted with widening of the distal tibiofibular articulation
  • medial malleolus fracture or deltoid ligament injury present
  • unstable: requires ORIF

Categories B and C imply a degree of damage to the syndesmosis itself (which cannot be directly visualised on X-ray). They are inherently unstable and are more likely to require operative repair to achieve a good outcome. Type A fractures are usually stable and can be managed with simple measures, such as a plaster of paris cast.

See also

References
  1. Mcrae, Ronald; Esser, Max. Practical Fracture Treatment (Fifth ed.). p. 382. ISBN 978-0-443-06876-8.
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