Fracture-Related Infections in the Foot and Ankle

Alexandra N Krez; Albert T Anastasio; Samuel B Adams

doi:10.1016/j.fcl.2024.06.011

Fracture-Related Infections in the Foot and Ankle

Foot Ankle Clin. 2025 Mar;30(1):191-200. doi: 10.1016/j.fcl.2024.06.011. Epub 2024 Aug 7.

Authors

Alexandra N Krez¹, Albert T Anastasio¹, Samuel B Adams²

Affiliations

¹ Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Duke University Hospital, 2301 Erwin Road, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
² Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Duke University Hospital, Duke University School of Medicine, 2301 Erwin Road, Durham, NC 27710, USA. Electronic address: samuel.adams@duke.edu.

PMID: 39894614
DOI: 10.1016/j.fcl.2024.06.011

Abstract

Fracture-related infection (FRI) poses significant challenges in the management of foot and ankle fractures, potentially leading to functional impairment and heightened health care expenses. This review addresses the diagnosis, risk factors, and management strategies for FRI. Surgical management involves multidisciplinary collaboration, emphasizing debridement, antimicrobial therapy, and implant removal when indicated. Specific considerations for limited soft tissue coverage, tenuous blood supply, and fracture type in the foot and the ankle underscore the importance of tailored approaches to optimize outcomes and reduce complications in FRI management.

Keywords: Ankle; Foot; Fracture-related infection; Management.

Publication types

Review

MeSH terms

Ankle Injuries* / complications
Ankle Injuries* / surgery
Debridement
Foot Injuries* / complications
Foot Injuries* / surgery
Fractures, Bone* / complications
Fractures, Bone* / surgery
Humans
Risk Factors
Surgical Wound Infection* / diagnosis
Surgical Wound Infection* / therapy