Distal tibiofibular syndesmosis: A meta-analysis of cadaveric studies

Though injuries to the distal tibiofibular (DTF) syndesmosis are commonly encountered in orthopedic and trauma settings, its anatomical structures have been poorly researched. The commonly overlooked DTF ligament injuries are known to cause chronic ankle pain, instability and post-traumatic osteoarthritis. Quantitative and morphological evidence synthesis has not been yet conducted. A meta-analysis was conducted to collect data from morphological studies to document more accurate details on the prevalence, size, and insertion sites of its components. The Checklist for Anatomical Reviews and Meta-Analyses (CARMA) was followed. Ten studies met the inclusion criteria with a total of 265 investigated ankles. The analysis demonstrated that the anterior and posterior tibiofibular ligaments along with the interosseous ligament were present in 100% of joints. The inferior transverse tibiofibular and the distal fascicle of the anterior tibiofibular ligament were the least prevalent with frequencies of 96% and 86.5%, respectively. The inferior transverse ligament was recorded as the longest ligament. The widest ligament was found to be the interosseous tibiofibular ligament at its fibular attachment. The thickest of the ligamentous components was the posterior tibiofibular ligament. While more cadaveric research is warranted, these results would help directing future biomechanical investigations and planning new research to further aid in diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to the injuries of the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis.