What is the term for a break at the ankle that affects both bones of the legs?

The term that describes a break at the ankle affecting both bones of the lower leg is known as a Pott's fracture. This specific type of fracture is characterized by the involvement of the fibula and, often, a fracture at the malleolus, which is the bony prominence on each side of the ankle. Pott's fracture typically occurs due to an external rotation force, such as when an individual rolls their ankle.

Understanding Pott's fracture is critical in medical terminology and orthopedic contexts, as it highlights specific injury mechanisms and treatment considerations for managing ankle fractures. The distinction of this fracture lies in its association with both bones, emphasizing its complexity compared to other types of fractures.

The other types listed—compression, spiral, and Colles'—refers to different fracture patterns that do not specifically relate to the ankle or the dual involvement of the leg bones, making Pott's the accurate term for this particular fracture scenario.