Broken ankle x-ray pic & surgery

I broke my fibula 2 weeks ago and the ortho I met with said I need surgery. I don't have insurance and even though the doctor discounted my surgery cost I don't have the money to pay for it. I tried applying for medicare but after speaking with the doc they think it's unlikely I will get approved.

I have a friend who is a doctor and another friend that dose sports rehabilitation and they both said if I could avoid surgery on my fibula that would be the best thing but they aren't sure if I absolutely need it. I attached my X-rays and wanted to see if I could get some professional feedback as to others opinions.

Bottom line is I don't have the cash to pay for the surgery so I don't really have many options but I want to try and do whatever I need to do to make sure it heals the best under the circumstances. Any help would be greatly appreciated!

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

Well, most fibular fractures do not require a surgical fixation but this being at the lower end/ near the ankle (proximal distal fibular fracture), somehwat displaced and likely associated with ankle instability may require a surgical fixation; though I cannot comment for sure based on a single view of the x-ray. You may seek a second opinion with another orthopedician and/ or contact the social services in your area, if they would be in a position to provide some help.
Hope this is useful.

Take care!