Ankle Ligament Reconstruction
What is an Ankle Sprain?
A sprain is stretching or tearing of a ligament. Ligaments connect adjacent bones in a joint and provide stability to the joint.
An ankle sprain is a common injury and occurs when you fall or suddenly twist the ankle joint or when you land your foot in an awkward position after a jump. It most commonly occurs when you participate in sports or when you jump or run on a surface that is irregular.
Symptoms of Ankle Sprains
Ankle sprains can cause
- Pain
- Swelling
- Tenderness
- bruising
- Stiffness
- Numbness in the toes
- Inability to walk or bear weight on the ankle accompanied by persistent discomfort
Inadequate healing of a sprained ligament or incomplete rehabilitation of the affected ligament can result in instability of the ankle.
Diagnosis of Ankle Sprains
A complete medical history, including a history of any previous ankle injuries, and a physical examination is essential for an accurate diagnosis of the condition. An X-ray may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatments for Ankle Sprains
Conservative Treatments for Ankle Sprain
Acute injuries can be managed with conservative treatment measures such as
- RICE method (rest, ice, compression and elevation)
- Medications
- Bracing
- Physical therapy
Surgical Procedure for Ankle Sprains
Surgical intervention to reconstruct the injured ligament may be considered in patients with a high degree of instability and in those who have failed to respond to non-surgical treatments.
Ankle Ligament Reconstruction Procedure
Ankle ligament reconstruction may be performed arthroscopically under general anesthesia. Your surgeon will make small incisions in your ankle. A tiny camera and a few special instruments are inserted through the incisions to repair and strengthen the ligaments. Stretched or torn ligaments will be shortened and stitched as needed. Sometimes, a weakened ligament is reconstructed with a section of tendon derived from the foot and around the ankle.
The recovery time after ankle ligament reconstruction depends on the extent of injury and the procedure performed. For the first few weeks after surgery, you will be instructed to use crutches or a wheelchair and avoid bearing any weight on the reconstructed ankle joint.
Risks and Complications of Ankle Ligament Reconstruction
Specific complications of ankle ligament reconstruction include
- Infection
- Nerve damage
- Ankle joint stiffness
- Recurrent instability
