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Published on: January 24, 2018
Arthroscopic four-step treatment for chronic ankle instability
Alberto Ventura1, Clara Terzaghi, Claudio Legnani
1U.O.S.D. Chirurgia Articolare Mininvasiva, Istituto Ortopedico G. Pini, Milano, Italy, Italy. alberto.ventura@doctoral.it
Foot & Ankle International
|March 3, 2012
Summary
Arthroscopic reconstruction effectively treats chronic lateral ankle instability, improving patient function and return to sport. This minimally invasive approach offers significant benefits over traditional open surgery for ankle laxity.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Sports Medicine
- Arthroscopy
Background:
- Chronic lateral ankle instability often results from recurrent ankle sprains.
- Open reconstructive surgery may lead to subtalar joint stiffness and donor site morbidity.
- Arthroscopic techniques offer a less invasive alternative with potential for faster recovery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the outcomes of arthroscopic reconstruction for chronic lateral ankle instability.
- To assess postoperative recovery and return to sport after the procedure.
Main Methods:
- Ninety patients with chronic lateral ankle instability underwent a four-step arthroscopic procedure.
- The procedure included synovectomy, debridement, capsular shrinkage, and 21-day non-weightbearing immobilization.
- Patients were followed up for an average of 4 years post-surgery.
Main Results:
- Significant improvements were observed in AOFAS (63.5 to 92.3) and Karlsson scores (61.8 to 88.4).
- Tegner rating improved from 3.6 to 4.9, and Sefton scale for articular stability improved from 4.0 to 1.8.
- Over 96% of patients reported good to excellent surgical outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Arthroscopic reconstruction is a viable treatment for moderate chronic ankle joint laxity with complete ATFL lesions.
- The procedure demonstrates favorable outcomes regarding functional recovery and patient satisfaction.
