The ankle is stabilized by external lateral ligaments that can sometimes be too flexible (hyperlaxity) or damaged by repeated trauma. The pain and apprehension become worse with the repetition of episodes of instability causing sprains. Over time degradation can become osteoarthritis and therefore damage the bone cartilage.
A severe ankle sprain is a rupture of the ligaments and must always be immobilized with a splint or a plaster boot for 3-6 weeks to allow the ligament to heal naturally. Rest and follow-up of adapted rehabilitation are strongly recommended.
In the event of persistent instability despite immobilization and well-conducted rehabilitation, surgery of ligamentoplasty can be decided
Your surgeon will need specific X-ray profile. In addition, a CT-arthrography will evaluate the condition of cartilage and ligaments.
Inquire in advance is mandatory in order to perform the most suitable examination.
Surgical Treatment
The ligamentoplasty consists in repairing and reattaching the stabilizing ligaments of the ankle. There are different techniques of ankle ligamentoplasty.
At the Bordeaux-Merignac Sport Clinic, this procedure is performed under arthroscopy
