Ankle Stabilization With Arthroscopic Versus Open With Suture Tape Augmentation Techniques.

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Biomechanical Engineering

Background:

• Ankle instability frequently necessitates surgical intervention when conservative treatments fail.
• Surgical ankle stabilization techniques, both open and arthroscopic, demonstrate good outcomes.
• Suture tape augmentation enhances ligament repair strength, approaching native ligament levels.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the outcomes of arthroscopic ankle stabilization versus open stabilization with suture tape augmentation.
• To evaluate patient satisfaction and return to activity following surgical ankle stabilization.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective comparative trial involving 55 patients (43 arthroscopic, 12 open with suture tape).
• Follow-up included patient satisfaction surveys and assessment of return to activity timelines.
• Mean follow-up durations were 24.2 months (arthroscopic) and 21 months (open).

Main Results:

• The arthroscopic group demonstrated a statistically significant faster return to activity/sports (127.2 days vs. 170 days; p=0.008).
• No statistically significant difference was found in revision surgeries or patient satisfaction, though a trend favored the open group.
• Ancillary procedures were noted in both groups.

Conclusions:

• Both arthroscopic ankle stabilization and open stabilization with suture tape augmentation are viable surgical options for ankle instability.
• The choice of surgical method may influence the speed of return to activity, with arthroscopy showing an advantage.
• Further research may clarify long-term differences in revision rates and patient-reported outcomes.