PGI Surgeon's Innovative Ankle Malunion Classification Aids Joint Preservation

In November 2025, Dr. Sandeep Patel, an Associate Professor of Orthopaedics at PGI in Chandigarh, has made a significant breakthrough in the management of ankle malunions. He has developed a new classification system, the Patel-Dhillon Classification, which provides a detailed framework for assessing and treating these complex deformities.

Ankle malunions occur when ankle fractures heal in an improper position, often due to neglect or inadequate fixation. These conditions can lead to pain, instability, and arthritis if not addressed appropriately. Traditionally, such cases were managed with ankle fusion, sacrificing joint motion to relieve pain. However, recent advancements in orthopedic reconstruction have introduced joint-preserving corrective osteotomies as viable options for select patients.

The Patel-Dhillon Classification aims to guide surgeons in understanding the anatomical and mechanical aspects of various malunion patterns, thereby assisting them in selecting the optimal corrective procedure. This classification represents an important step toward restoring both form and function in patients who would have otherwise lost their ankle joint.

Speaking about the significance of this work, Dr. Patel emphasized that ankle malunions have long been considered difficult to manage, with fusion often seen as the only solution. Through this new classification, he aims to provide clarity and direction to surgeons, promoting joint preservation wherever feasible and improving clinical outcomes for patients.