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What is the term for an ankle fracture affecting one of the malleoli?

A) Pott's fracture
B) Smith's fracture
C) Greenstick fracture

1 Answer

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Final answer:

A Pott's fracture is the term used to describe an ankle fracture affecting one of the malleoli, often occurring when the medial malleolus of the tibia is sheared off during an eversion injury, leading to a lateral movement of the talus and a fracture of the distal fibula.

Step-by-step explanation:

The term for an ankle fracture affecting one of the malleoli is Pott's fracture. This type of injury is typically the result of a forcible eversion of the foot, like an awkward landing from a jump or being hit on the lateral ankle while the foot is planted.

In a Pott's fracture, the medial malleolus of the tibia may be sheared off by the strong deltoid ligament and this allows the talus to move laterally which then fractures the distal fibula. In some cases, there may also be an associated fracture of the posterior margin of the tibia.

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