Early Versus Delayed Weight Bearing and Mobilization After Ankle Fracture Fixation Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

The purpose of this review was to determine whether there is a benefit to early weight bearing or mobilization in surgically treated ankle fractures. All randomized controlled trials that analyzed early vs delayed weight bear- ing and/or mobilization after an ankle surgery were included. The primary outcome measure was the pooled Olerud Molander Ankle Score 1 year postoperatively. No significant differences in ankle function were found at 1 year postoperatively between early and delayed weight bearing and mo- bilization. The 12 -week results demonstrated superior early ankle function scores for patients who had early weight bearing. Patients who had early mobilization were at increased risk for postoperative complications. In sur- gically treated ankle fractures, early weight bearing resulted in improved short-term ankle function scores. [Orthopedics. 2024;47(2):71-78.]