[The unstable upper ankle joint. Treatment of acute ligament rupture--a review of the literature].

Acute lateral ankle ligament sprains represent a very frequent examinated and treated injury in the daily traumatological routine. A cursory review of recent articles published on this subject gives a confusing picture regarding diagnosis and treatment of such injuries. An air of controversy surrounds the interpretation of diagnostic x-rays and the management of these common ankle problems. This review article is to summarize current thoughts of different aspects concerning the treatment of acute lateral ankle ligament sprains.