Clinical and radiological outcomes of surgically treated medial malleolus fractures in skeletally immature patients

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BACKGROUND: Medial distal tibial Salter-Harris Type 3 and Type 4 epiphyseal injuries, also known as McFarland fractures, pose significant risks due to their potential to damage the growth plate and cause long-term joint deformities. Surgical treatment is commonly performed to restore joint congruity; however, there is no clear consensus on whether surgical or conservative treatment yields better outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate the mid-term clinical and radiological outcomes of surgical treatment in patients with McFarland fractures. METHODS: This retrospective study analyzed outcomes of 13 patients, aged 6-17 years, who underwent surgical treatment for McFarland fractures between 2021 and 2023 at a Level 1 Trauma Center. Surgical methods included screw fixation, K-wire fixation, and tension wire fixation. Outcome measures included radiological deformity assessments (lateral distal tibial angle [LDTA], anterior distal tibial angle [ADTA]), range of motion (ROM), Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) scores for functional assessment, and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scores for pain. Comparisons were made between the operated and non-operated limbs. RESULTS: LDTA and ADTA values showed minimal differences between the operated and non-operated limbs, indicating successful surgical realignment (p<0.05). Although slight ROM limitations were observed in the operated limb, high FAAM scores and low VAS scores reflected good functional recovery and effective pain management. Correlation analysis revealed a moderate positive correlation (r=0.45) between FAAM scores and ROM, and a weaker correlation (r=0.32) between FAAM scores and radiological alignment. CONCLUSION: Surgical treatment of McFarland fractures resulted in favorable clinical and radiological outcomes, with minimal limitations in ROM and significant improvements in alignment and functional recovery. However, ongoing follow-up is essential, particularly in younger patients, to monitor and manage the risk of potential growth disturbances.