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Updated: Feb 10, 2026

Development of a Uterosacral Ligament Suspension Rat Model
Published on: August 17, 2022
[Injuries of the medial collateral ligament and spring ligament complexes]
M Jordan1, M Thomas2, F Elser3
1Fuß- und Sprunggelenkschirurgie, Hessingpark-Clinic, Hessingstr. 13, 86199, Augsburg, Deutschland. martin.jordan@hessingpark-clinic.de.
Injuries to the medial collateral ligament (MCL) complex and spring ligament complex are common and can cause ankle pain and instability. High-resolution MRI is crucial for diagnosis and surgical planning, with treatment varying based on injury severity.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Sports Medicine
- Radiology
Background:
- The medial collateral ligament (MCL) complex, including the spring ligament complex, is vital for ankle stability against rotational and pronating forces.
- MCL and spring ligament injuries are more common than previously recognized and can lead to significant pain and instability.
- Concomitant injuries, such as fractures and lateral ligament damage, often accompany MCL injuries, complicating clinical assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges associated with medial collateral ligament (MCL) and spring ligament complex injuries.
- To emphasize the role of high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in evaluating these complex ankle structures.
- To discuss current treatment strategies for acute and chronic MCL and spring ligament lesions.
Main Methods:
- Review of anatomical and biomechanical characteristics of the MCL complex.
- Analysis of diagnostic approaches, including patient history, clinical examination, and advanced imaging (MRI).
- Evaluation of surgical and non-surgical treatment options for MCL and spring ligament injuries.
Main Results:
- Thorough patient history and biomechanical assessment are essential for diagnosing MCL and spring ligament injuries.
- High-resolution MRI is indispensable for accurate identification of ligamentous injuries and preoperative planning.
- Surgical intervention for acute MCL ruptures is generally not indicated, while treatment for chronic lesions and specific ankle fracture scenarios remains debated.
Conclusions:
- Accurate diagnosis of MCL and spring ligament injuries requires a comprehensive approach, integrating clinical evaluation with advanced imaging.
- MRI plays a critical role in guiding treatment decisions for both acute and chronic ligamentous ankle injuries.
- Treatment strategies for MCL and spring ligament complex injuries are diverse, ranging from conservative management to surgical reconstruction, with ongoing discussion regarding operative indications in complex cases.
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