Arthroscopic anterior talofibular ligament reconstructin in chronic ankle instability: Two years results.

PURPOSE: In chronic lateral ankle instability, primary ligament repair is not always possible because of poor quality of the local tissues. A free autologous or allograft tendon graft or synthetic grafts are suitable alternative. We describe middle term results of arthroscopic reconstruction of the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) using a free autologous ipsilateral gracilis graft in patients with chronic ankle instability.

METHODS

Eleven patients with chronic lateral ankle instability with imaging evidence of isolated ATFL tear underwent arthroscopic reconstruction of the ATFL using a free ipsilateral gracilis graft. Functional and subjective assessment were performed after an average of 24 months following the index procedure.

RESULTS

At 24 months, all patients showed objective improvements. One patient reported transient dysaesthesiae on the dorsolateral aspect of the foot and heel.

CONCLUSIONS

Arthroscopic isolated reconstruction of the ATFL with a free ipsilateral gracilis grafts is safe, allowing restoration of joint stability and low surgical morbidity.

STUDY

DESIGN

Case series.