/Ottawa Ankle Rules

Ottawa Ankle Rules

Determines need for ankle radiographs

Total Score

0

Low risk. X-ray is NOT indicated.

00Low
13High

Disclaimer: The clinical scoring and algorithms on this platform are intended strictly for professional informational purposes. They do not constitute a definitive medical diagnosis, treatment, or clinical decision. The final judgment and responsibility lie with the treating physician.

Yasal Uyarı: Bu platformdaki klinik skorlamalar ve algoritmalar yalnızca sağlık profesyonellerini bilgilendirme amaçlıdır. Herhangi bir kesin tıbbi teşhis, tedavi veya klinik karar yerine geçemez. Nihai karar ve sorumluluk hastayı yatak başında değerlendiren hekime aittir.

Clinical Overview

The Ottawa Ankle Rules provide a highly sensitive clinical decision aid to determine if a patient with acute ankle or midfoot trauma requires radiography. By assessing bone tenderness and weight-bearing ability, it safely reduces unnecessary X-rays and speeds up ED throughput.

Clinical Pearl

The 'inability to bear weight' criterion means taking 4 consecutive steps both immediately after the injury AND in the ED. Limping counts as bearing weight! Also, remember to palpate the posterior 6 cm of the malleoli, not just the lateral tip.

Pitfalls & Warnings

  • Exercise caution in pediatrics; it may miss isolated Salter-Harris (growth plate) fractures.
  • Invalid in patients with distracting injuries, intoxication, or diminished lower extremity sensation.

Academic References

Stiell IG, Greenberg GH, McKnight RD, et al. Decision rules for the use of radiography in acute ankle injuries. Refinement and prospective validation. JAMA. 1993;269(9):1127-1132.

Disclaimer: The clinical scoring and algorithms on this platform are intended strictly for professional informational purposes. They do not constitute a definitive medical diagnosis, treatment, or clinical decision. The final judgment and responsibility lie with the treating physician.