Revision of the Chronic Syndesmotic Injury

Clin Podiatr Med Surg. 2020 Jul;37(3):577-592. doi: 10.1016/j.cpm.2020.03.011. Epub 2020 May 12.

Abstract

Optimal healing for fractures requires anatomic reduction and stable fixation. This optimizes not only bone healing, but optimal function within the limb including joint functioning. Proper ligamentous healing is also crucial for optimal functioning. In patients with injuries around the ankle involving distal tibiofibular syndesmotic injuries of the ankle, malreduction of the syndesmosis is a potential consequence that can lead to chronic pain and functional limitations. This article discusses proper ways of evaluating reduction of the syndesmosis and surgical revision for the chronic injury.

Keywords: Ankle fracture; Chronic syndesmotic injury; Malreduction; Syndesmosis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Ankle Fractures / complications
  • Ankle Fractures / diagnosis
  • Ankle Fractures / surgery*
  • Ankle Injuries / complications
  • Ankle Injuries / diagnosis
  • Ankle Injuries / surgery*
  • Arthralgia / etiology
  • Arthralgia / surgery
  • Chronic Pain / etiology
  • Chronic Pain / surgery
  • Humans
  • Joint Instability / complications
  • Joint Instability / diagnosis
  • Joint Instability / surgery*
  • Male
  • Reoperation