Surgical intervention yields superior results over conservative management in calcaneal-side calcaneofibular ligament...

To the best of our knowledge, no study has investigated complete calcaneal-side calcaneofibular ligament (CFL) rupture. This study was performed to compare the clinical and radiographic results of conservative and surgical treatments for acute ankle sprains with complete calcaneal-side CFL rupture.

This study included 36 patients diagnosed with acute ankle sprain and complete calcaneal-side CFL rupture. The first 14 patients were treated conservatively (group C), and the remaining 22 underwent surgery (group S). Clinical results between the two groups were compared regarding their scores on the Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool (CAIT) and patient satisfaction with the treatment. Radiographic results were evaluated for the rupture status of the CFL on preoperative magnetic resonance imaging and stability of the ankle joint using a stress radiographs with Telos and manual anterior drawer test.

At the last follow-up, the mean CAIT score was significantly higher in group S than in group C (P < 0.001). The treatment dissatisfaction rate was significantly higher in group C (P = 0.003). In all cases, the proximal migration distance of the ruptured CFL significantly correlated with the incidence of Stener's-like lesions, in which the distal stump of the CFL was displaced over the peroneal tendons (R=0.721, P < 0.001). Stress radiographs showed no significant difference in postoperative instability between groups. In the manual anterior drawer test at the last follow-up, the proportion of stable ankles was significantly higher in group S than in group C (P = 0.02).

Surgical treatment could improve clinical results and satisfaction in patients with acute ankle sprains and complete calcaneal-side CFL rupture.

III, Retrospective cohort study.