Operative Management of Lateral Ankle Instability: Examination Under Anesthesia, Ankle Arthroscopy and Stabilization Technique

Abstract

Background: Ankle sprains are common injuries that can result in chronic ankle instability. Indications: Indications for surgical management include recurrent instability, failed conservative management for 3 to 6 months, and inability to return to play or activity. Technique Description: The patient’s ankle is initially examined under anesthesia with anterior drawer testing to confirm the diagnosis of ankle instability. Ankle arthroscopy is then preformed to identify and treat additional intra-articular pathology prior to modified Broström repair. During arthroscopy, care is taken to protect the superficial peroneal nerve. Routinely we perform a “drive-through sign” to assess syndesmotic stability and also debride pathologic intra-articular tissue such as hypertrophied synovium. Following the completion of arthroscopy, an incision is made directly over the fibula. The anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL), calcaneofibular ligament (CFL), and distal fibular periosteum are dissected off the fibula. Two 3.0-mm suture anchors are placed at the origin of the CFL ligament and the ATFL ligament, and previously dissected tissue is incorporated for repair. We reinforce the CFL and ATFL tissues with incorporation of the distal fibular periosteum. Suture tape augmentation is considered for patients at high risk of recurrence, such as those with ligamentous laxity. After completion of our repair, the ankle is again examined under anesthesia with satisfactory confirmation of improved ankle stability. Results: Outcomes of our technique are promising, with improvement in patient-reported outcome measures, restoration of range of motion, return to sport as high as 94%, and low failure rates. Discussion: For patients with chronic instability, our described technique for sequential examination under anesthesia, ankle arthroscopy, and our modified Broström result in satisfactory improvement in ankle stability and patient symptoms. Patient Consent Disclosure Statement: The author(s) attests that consent has been obtained from any patient(s) appearing in this publication. If the individual may be identifiable, the author(s) has included a statement of release or other written form.