Ankle Ligament Reconstruction

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.

Ankle sprains can cause pain, swelling, tenderness, bruising, and stiffness, numbness in the toes, and 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.

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.

Treatment

Acute injuries can be managed with conservative treatment measures such as RICE method (rest, ice, compression and elevation), medications, bracing, and physical therapy.

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 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.

Specific complications of ankle ligament reconstruction include infection, nerve damage, ankle joint stiffness, and recurrent instability.

Patient Reviews

  • blog leftDon't think you'll find a better combination of physician and support staff! They are all very professional! blog right

    Know More

    blog leftDr Benton is professional and caring. He takes plenty of time to listen to your questions and explains things to your understanding . blog right

    Know More
  • blog leftEasy to make appointment and super friendly staff. blog right

    Know More

    blog leftGreat bed side manner and concern for my care. blog right

    Know More
  • blog leftGreat experience and appreciate time spent discussing options. blog right

    Know More

    blog leftGreat experience, great doctors. blog right

    Know More
  • blog left He was caring, answered questions, encouraged me, gave me shots in my knees, and today I already feel relief of the pain. blog right

    Know More

    blog left He was very kind. informative and respectful. You could tell he cared and wanted us to understand everything he discussed with us. blog right

    Know More
  • blog left I have always been happy and satisfied going to this facility blog right

    Know More

    blog left I was impressed with the short wait time and helpfulness of the staff. blog right

    Know More
  • Play
  • Pause