All-inside arthroscopic modified Broström operation for chronic ankle instability: a biomechanical study

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Biomechanical Engineering
• Sports Medicine

Background:

• Lateral ankle instability is a common condition often treated with the modified Broström operation.
• The all-inside arthroscopic modified Broström operation has emerged as a less invasive surgical option.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the biomechanical parameters of the all-inside arthroscopic modified Broström operation with the traditional open modified Broström operation.
• Evaluate the efficacy of the arthroscopic approach for treating lateral ankle instability.

Main Methods:

• Eleven matched pairs of human cadaver specimens were utilized.
• Procedures included both the all-inside arthroscopic and open modified Broström operations.
• Ligaments were subjected to cyclic loading and tested to failure, measuring torque, degrees, and stiffness.

Main Results:

• No significant differences were observed in torque to failure between the arthroscopic and open groups (23.3 ± 12.1 Nm vs. 19.9 ± 8.9 Nm).
• Degrees to failure were also comparable, with no significant difference between the two surgical techniques (46.7 ± 7.6° vs. 46.8 ± 9.9°).
• Working construct stiffness showed no significant variation between the arthroscopic and open modified Broström operations (0.487 ± 0.268 Nm/deg vs. 0.438 ± 0.21 Nm/deg).

Conclusions:

• The all-inside arthroscopic modified Broström operation demonstrates comparable biomechanical performance to the open modified Broström operation.
• These findings suggest that the arthroscopic approach is a suitable alternative for managing chronic ankle instability.
• The study supports the arthroscopic modified Broström operation as a viable option for surgeons treating lateral ankle instability.