The Modified Broström Procedure with Suture-Tape Augmentation for Chronic Lateral Ankle Instability

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Biomechanics

Background:

• The Broström procedure is a common surgical technique for chronic lateral ankle instability.
• Modifications aim to enhance clinical outcomes, mechanical stability, and rehabilitation.
• Suture-tape augmentation is a recent modification to the Broström procedure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the intermediate-term clinical outcomes of the modified Broström procedure (MBP) with suture-tape augmentation.
• To assess the impact of MBP on mechanical ankle stability and postural control in patients with chronic lateral ankle instability.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 94 patients with chronic lateral ankle instability underwent MBP with suture-tape augmentation.
• Follow-up was conducted for at least 3 years.
• Clinical outcomes were assessed using the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) and Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM). Mechanical stability was evaluated via physical examination and stress radiography. Postural control was assessed using single-leg stance tests and Biodex posturography.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements were observed in FAOS (52.6 to 91.8) and FAAM (54.2 to 90.5) scores (p < 0.001).
• Talar tilt angle and anterior talar translation significantly improved (p < 0.001), indicating enhanced mechanical stability.
• Balance retention time and overall stability index improved significantly (p < 0.001), while recurrence rates were low (2.1%).

Conclusions:

• The modified Broström procedure augmented with suture tape is an effective surgical treatment for chronic lateral ankle instability.
• The procedure provides reliable stability and a low risk of recurrent instability.
• Post-operative proprioceptive rehabilitation may further enhance static and dynamic postural control.