Results after surgical treatment of acute injuries to the lateral ligament of the ankle (author's transl)

Abstract

105 patients with acute injuries of the fibular collateral ligament were treated surgically. Diagnoses and following treatment were based on X-rays in stressed positions (talar tilt and anterior drawer sign) compared with the other side. More than fifty percent were athletic injuries. After surgical treatment patients wore a below-knee plaster cast for 6 weeks. 90 patients were seen after an average interval of 24 months; another 7 were assessed on the basis of patient's judgement. In 7 cases the X-ray control showed some instability (talar tilt greater than 5 degree and anterior drawer sign greater than 2mm). At physical examination we found in some cases minor differences in mobility, swelling and pain. 14 patients showed hypesthesia on the lateral side of the dorsum of the foot. No patient had to give up his sport activities due to the ligamentous injury, 89 (97 were asked) were content with the result.