Lauge-Hansen Classification (Ankle Fractures)
Classifies ankle fractures by mechanism (supination vs pronation) and stage of ligament/bone injury. Guides surgical vs conservative management.
Score interpretation
→ Stable: analgesia, splint or boot and weight-bearing as tolerated; further follow-up may not be needed (BOAST 12).
→ Usually stable without medial tenderness or talar shift: splint and weight-bear as tolerated. If stability is uncertain, review within 2 weeks with repeat (weight-bearing) radiographs (BOAST 12).
→ Reduce and splint a deformed ankle urgently. Early fixation (day of or day after injury) for most patients under 60; over 60 a close contact cast is an option if reduction is maintained. Assess the syndesmosis at surgery (BOAST 12).
→ Unstable: fix the fibula and stabilise the syndesmosis if unstable. X-ray the whole leg if a proximal fibular (Maisonneuve) fracture is suspected (BOAST 12).
Interpretation bands for the Lauge-Hansen. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.
References
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
- Hip Fracture Pathway · NICE CG124; BPT
- Cauda Equina Syndrome · Society of British Neurological Surgeons; BOA — Best Practice
- Knee Soft Tissue Injury (ACL / MCL / Meniscus) · BOA; Royal College of Surgeons
- Shoulder Dislocation · BOA; RCEM
- Scaphoid Fracture · BOA; BSSH
- Pelvic Fracture · BOA; ATLS; NICE NG39
Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.