Get your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM BlogQuestions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction

Fractured Ankle, Small Piece Of Floating Bone, Can Walk Without Pain. Surgery Required To Remove Bone?

Hi , my son 15 fractured his ankle on boxing day. We had plaster for 4 weeks. There is a 8mm piece of floating bone. The doctor decided to leave this piece of bone there, because my son could walk without much pain or discomfort. What do you advise in regards to scar tissue build up and early arthritis? Should this piece of bone be removed? Thanks
Tue, 27 Aug 2013
Report Abuse
Orthopaedic Surgeon, Joint Replacement 's  Response
Hello,
Thanks for writing to us

It is difficult too comment without seeing the xray film. Arthritic changes depends upon the injury to articular surface of the fractured bone. If it is loose floating piece of bone surgery might be required.

I do hope that you have found something helpful and I will be glad to answer any further query. If you wish you can upload the xray film so that I can help you in better ways.
I find this answer helpful
Orthopaedic Surgeon, Joint Replacement Dr. K. Naga Ravi Prasad's  Response
Hi, thanks for writing to HCM.

If the fracture is Extraarticular (fracture of bone outside the joint area), then leaving a piece of small bone will not make any difference with regard to the healing process.

If the fracture is Intraarticular (fracture lying within the joint), then there is a possibility that the loose fragment may cause damage to the cartilage leading to early arthritis.

Hope this information is helpful. Good day
I find this answer helpful

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer. For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service [Sample answer]
Share on
 

Related questions you may be interested in


Recent questions on Arthritis


Loading Online Doctors....
Fractured Ankle, Small Piece Of Floating Bone, Can Walk Without Pain. Surgery Required To Remove Bone?

Hello, Thanks for writing to us It is difficult too comment without seeing the xray film. Arthritic changes depends upon the injury to articular surface of the fractured bone. If it is loose floating piece of bone surgery might be required. I do hope that you have found something helpful and I will be glad to answer any further query. If you wish you can upload the xray film so that I can help you in better ways.