From the Journals

Unstable Weber B Fractures: Cast vs Surgery

Study compares treatment approaches for a type of lateral malleolus fracture deemed unstable on stress testing

Share

In a randomized noninferiority trial, researchers led by Dr. Tero Kortekangas assessed outcomes in patients with unimalleolar Weber B ankle fractures, comparing cast immobilization to surgery. Conducted at Oulu University Hospital, the study involved 126 patients, revealing no significant functional advantage of surgery over casting after two years. This suggests that conservative management can be effective, aligning with emerging guidelines advocating for nonoperative treatment in certain cases. The findings emphasize the importance of a congruent ankle mortise over invasive surgical methods.

Original Source(s)

Unstable Weber B Fractures: Cast vs Surgery

Study compares treatment approaches for a type of lateral malleolus fracture deemed unstable on stress testing

  • by Julia Cipriano, MS, CMPP

  • February 25, 2026

  • 3 min

Related Content

‘Days at Home’ After Hip Fracture Signals Social Risk

Researchers examine how neighborhood deprivation relates to recovery patterns after hip fracture surgery

Fluorescence Imaging Helps Differentiate PsA and EHOA

Psoriatic arthritis patients achieve durable disease control and reduced radiographic progression under targeted therapy.

Only 2% Screened: Closing the Male Gap

“Men would like to believe they’re indestructible, so a fracture doesn’t have the implication that it should."