Classification according to Weber

An ankle fracture is usually classified by doctors according to its type and location. One way to do this is to classify them according to Weber. Weber’s classification of ankle fractures is based on the syndesmosis.

The syndesmosis is mainly responsible for the stability of the entire ankle joint. It is a strong ligament that connects the tibia and fibula and thus forms the so-called ankle fork. If the syndesmosis is also affected by an injury, this is decisive for treatment, as serious consequential damage to the joint can occur due to its important role as a stabilizer.

The classification according to Weber is divided into three classes: Weber-A-Fracture: The fracture is located below the syndesmosis, usually on the thinner fibula. In most cases, the syndesmosis itself is not injured. Weber-B fracture: The fracture is located at the level of the syndesmosis; the risk that the syndesmosis is also affected by the injury is significantly higher.

Weber-C fracture: The fracture is located above the syndesmosis at the calf and/or tibia. In this type of fracture, the syndesmosis is almost always affected by the injury.

Weber-A-Fracture: The fracture is located below the syndesmosis, usually on the thinner fibula. In most cases, the syndesmosis itself is not injured.
Weber-B fracture: The fracture is at the level of the syndesmosis, the risk that the syndesmosis is also affected by the injury is significantly higher.
Weber C fracture: The fracture lies above the syndesmosis on the calf and/or tibia. In this type of fracture, the syndesmosis is almost always affected by the injury.

Ankle joint fracture – OP

If the ankle fracture is an open fracture, the joint is displaced in position by the fracture, a complex fracture or a Weber B fracture or Weber C fracture, it is advisable to treat the ankle fracture surgically. The main aim is to restore the anatomical position of the joint, fix the fracture and maintain the function of the joint. Small plates and screws are often used to fix the fractures.

These can remain in the body for a long time and are not removed until 12 months at the earliest. Risks can also arise with an ankle fracture, including skin necrosis, infections of the operated joint, disturbances in bone and wound healing, as well as incorrect healing that can later lead to ankle arthrosis. The rehabilitation measures that follow the operation are no different from conservative treatment of ankle fractures.

The progress of healing should be regularly monitored by means of X-ray control images. In professional circles, this is also referred to as functional aftercare. This article may also be of interest to you: “Stress after an ankle fracture