Which surgery is best for frail seniors with broken ankles? new study aims to find out

NCT ID NCT05131321

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study compares two types of surgery for unstable ankle fractures in frail adults aged 60 and older. One group gets ankle fusion (joining the bones together), and the other gets open reduction and internal fixation (using plates and screws to hold the bones in place). A second part of the study also compares a less invasive nailing technique to standard fixation. The goal is to see which approach leads to better quality of life and less pain one year after surgery.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

surgery (ankle fusion or open reduction and internal fixation)

What this could lead to

If this trial succeeds, it could identify the best surgical approach for frail elderly patients with ankle fractures, improving their recovery and quality of life.

What could go wrong

This is a relatively small trial (172 participants) comparing two established procedures, so it may not find a clear winner. Results may not apply to all patients or settings.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Ankle Fractures tibia fracture

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • London Health Sciences Centre

    RECRUITING

    London, Ontario, N6A5W9, Canada

    Contact