Chandigarh, 6 February 2025: A novel fracture around the ankle has been named after Indian orthopedic surgeon Dr. Sandeep Patel and his co-author Dr. Siddharth Sharma, marking the first time a fracture has been attributed to an Indian surgeon. Their research, published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery Case Connector, describes the newly identified Patel-Sharma Fracture Fragment, which involves a fibular-sided avulsion of the Posterior Inferior Tibiofibular Ligament (PITFL), a distinct injury pattern.
Dr. Patel, an associate professor in PGIMER’s orthopedics department, has also introduced two classification systems. The Patel-Dhillon Classification, developed in 2024, provides a framework for Chaput fractures (anterior malleolus fractures). His second contribution, the FABER Classification, offers a systematic approach to trimalleolar fracture variants, improving diagnosis and treatment strategies.
“These classifications enhance our understanding of ankle fractures and aid in better clinical decision-making,” Dr. Patel said. Experts believe his work will significantly impact global orthopedic practice.
