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Ankle Ligament Instability

Type of Procedure: Outpatient
Length of Procedure: 1.5 hours
Anesthesia: General anesthesia with a popliteal block

Ankle ligament reconstruction: what is it?

With twisting injuries of the ankle, the ligaments may be torn and may not heal sufficiently to provide adequate stability in the ankle. When bracing or taping and physical therapy have not been successful, the ankle ligaments may be reconstructed to help prevent further twisting injuries.

For sprains to the outside part of the ankle, there are two main ligaments which are repaired and tightened.

There are two methods to reconstruct the ankle ligaments. The one operation is called the modified Brostrum procedure, and is made with a cut on the ankle and the two ligaments are re attached and tightened. A tiny anchor may be used to which the stitches are attached into the bone (the fibula).

Following surgery, you will need to use crutches for about two weeks.

You will be able to start walking in a removable walking boot by two weeks.

The boot is worn for 4 6 weeks, and then you are able to wear a shoe with an ankle stirrup brace for an additional 4 more weeks.

You can start exercising at 6 weeks after surgery with an ankle brace at all times

Physical therapy is an important part of your recovery

Running, cutting and ball and racket sports are not permitted for 3 4 months after the surgery.

Post Operative Course:

Day 1

  • Foot wrapped in bulky plaster bandage
  • Ice, elevate, take pain medication
  • Expect numbness in foot for 12-24 hours
  • Bloody drainage through bandage expected
  • Do not change bandage
  • Do not change the dressing

Day 14

  • Dressing changed, sutures/staples removed
  • Boot is applied to the foot
  • Weight-bearing in the boot as tolerated
  • You can take the boot off for bathing

6 weeks

  • Start physical therapy
  • Air cast stirrup is worn for support for one month
  • Gradual increase in exercise started at 10 weeks after surgery