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Purpose: The purpose of this study is to provide a detailed description of the anatomy and radiology of the medial sleeve and present an approach in its management among elite athletes. Methods: Five cases of elite athletes who underwent treatment for a medial sleeve injury of which the diagnosis was confirmed through physical examination and additional magnetic resonance imaging scan are described in this study. Results: Two patients presented with isolated medial sleeve injuries, while the other three patients suffered from concomitant ankle injuries. Non‐operative treatment consisted of relative rest, soft cast immobilization and mobilization in a walking boot or kinesiotape which was successful in four of the cases with regard to the medial sleeve. One patient underwent surgery due to syndesmotic instability. Another patient presented with combined medial and lateral ankle instability which was treated surgically with an open medial and lateral ligament repair. All patients were able to return to their pre‐injury sports and at the time of the last follow‐up were still playing in their pre‐injury level of competition. Conclusion: Medial sleeve injuries of the ankle in elite athletes should be considered in the differential diagnosis for athletes presenting with medial ankle pain. Inherent knowledge regarding anatomy is essential when guiding the management of these injuries which can be treated successfully with a non‐operative approach consisting of relative rest, immobilization, kinesiotape and physical therapy. In case of persistent medial instability or rotational instability, surgical repair is a viable treatment option. Both modalities allow athletes to return to the pre‐injury level of competition. However, early diagnosis is crucial to minimize the delay of appropriate treatment and avoid potential residual symptoms. Level of Evidence: Level IV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Rotational ankle instability can be diagnosed in up to 18% of cases of chronic lateral ankle instability. It is characterised by an abnormal increase of talar rotation within the tibiofibular mortise, due to an injury in the most anterior component of the deltoid ligament secondary to a chronic deficiency of the lateral collateral ligament. The aim of this prospective observational study was to investigate the clinical outcomes following arthroscopic all‐inside medial and lateral ligament reconstruction for rotational ankle instability. Methods: A prospective observational study of consecutive patients undergoing arthroscopic all‐inside medial and lateral ligament reconstruction for rotational ankle instability with minimum 6‐month follow‐up. The primary outcome was a validated patient‐reported outcome measure (PROM), the Manchester‐Oxford Foot Questionnaire. Secondary outcomes included the EQ‐5D, European Foot and Ankle Society score and complications. Results: Between 2020 and 2023, 12 patients underwent primary arthroscopic all‐inside medial and lateral ligament reconstruction for rotational ankle instability with pre‐ and post‐operative PROMs available for all 12 patients. The mean ± standard deviation age was 33.9 ± 7.2 years and the mean follow‐up was 1.9 ± 1.2 (range: 0.5–3.8, interquartile range: 0.9–3.0) years. There was a significant improvement in all Manchester‐Oxford Foot Questionnaire domain scores (p < 0.05): Index 53.1 ± 19.1 to 26.4 ± 27.6, Pain 46.7 ± 20.3 to 26.2 ± 26.8, Walking/Standing 58.7 ± 26.0 to 27.0 ± 30.0 and Social Interaction 51.2 ± 19.5 to 25.6 ± 30.1. There were improvements in EQ‐5D‐5L Index, VAS and VAS Pain; however, these were not statistically significant. There was one complication—a superficial peroneal nerve injury which resolved with a corticosteroid injection. Conclusion: The arthroscopic all‐inside medial and lateral ligament reconstruction technique is a reliable and safe method for treating rotational ankle instability, demonstrating significant improvement in PROMs at a mean 1.9‐year follow‐up. Level of Evidence: Level IV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Ankle sprains remain the most common soft tissue injury presenting to Emergency Departments. Recently, there has been increased awareness and reporting of deltoid ligament injuries in association with injuries to the lateral ligament complex as well as with fibula fractures. This article reviews the currently available literature on the anatomy of the deltoid ligament, clinical and radiological diagnosis of injuries to the deltoid ligament and treatment recommendations. Methods: A literature review was conducted for keywords associated with deltoid ligament injuries. MEDLINE, PubMed and Embase databases were utilised for this search. Articles were included if involving an adult population, were English‐language, were related to deltoid ligament injuries (with or without associated injuries) and reported on patho‐anatomy, clinical or radiological diagnosis or treatment methods. Results: A total of 93 articles were assessed for relevance from the database search, and 47 were included after the removal of irrelevant articles and duplicates. Several studies reported on the clinical findings of deltoid ligament injury, as well as the radiographic analysis. Arthroscopy was considered the gold standard of diagnosis, with authors reporting on the potential benefit of performing arthroscopic repair or reconstruction at the same time. There were no studies that provided a system for the classification of deltoid ligament injury or larger studies of treatment pathways. Long‐term studies of the incidence of instability in deltoid ligament injuries were not available. Conclusion: There is limited evidence available regarding deltoid ligament injuries, particularly in terms of treatment options, either in isolation or with concomitant injuries. Long‐term follow‐up studies are needed to obtain more accurate data on the number of complications. Level of Evidence: Level IV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Although arthroscopic repair of the deltoid ligament is becoming a popular procedure, no studies have assessed which bundles of the deltoid ligament can be reached by anterior ankle arthroscopy. This study aimed to assess the feasibility of the arthroscopic repair of the deep layer of the deltoid ligament. In addition, it aimed to correlate which fascicle of the superficial layer of the deltoid ligament corresponds to the deep fascicle visualised by arthroscopy. Methods: Arthroscopy was performed in 12 fresh frozen ankles by two foot and ankle surgeons. With the arthroscope introduced through the anterolateral portal, the medial compartment and the deltoid ligament were explored in ankle dorsiflexion without distraction. Using a suture passer introduced percutaneously, the most posterior fibres of the deep deltoid ligament visualised by anterior arthroscopy were tagged. Then, the ankles were dissected to identify the deep and superficial bundles of the deltoid ligament tagged with a suture. Results: In all specimens (100%), the intermediate part of the tibiotalar fascicle, corresponding to the fibres originating from the anterior colliculus, was tagged with a suture. The posterior part of the tibiotalar fascicle was never tagged with a suture. In all specimens, the intermediate part of the tibiotalar fascicle grasped by the suture correlated with the tibiospring fascicle of the superficial layer. Conclusions: The current study demonstrates the feasibility of the arthroscopic repair of the deep fascicle of the deltoid ligament. By performing anterior arthroscopy, it is possible to visualise and repair the intermediate part of the tibiotalar fascicle (deep layer of the deltoid ligament). These fibres correspond to the tibiospring fascicle of the superficial layer. The clinical relevance of the current study is that the arthroscopic repair of the deep layer of the deltoid ligament is feasible through anterior ankle arthroscopy. Level of Evidence: Not applicable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is effective in diagnosing deltoid ligament (DL) injury but its sensitivity in chronic cases is low. Additional diagnostic signs are required to reduce the risk of a false negative diagnosis. Purpose: To evaluate the added diagnostic value of bone marrow edema at the ligament insertion (BMELI) of DL to the MRI assessment of chronic DL injury. Material and Methods: One hundred patients who consecutively came to our institution between November 2018 and December 2021 and underwent arthroscopic surgery for chronic ankle instability (CAI) were enrolled in the present study. Preoperative MR images were retrospectively reviewed by two orthopedic surgeons to evaluate the sensitivity, specificity and interobserver reliability of three MRI signs in diagnosing chronic DL injury, namely, abnormal ligamentous morphological characteristics (ALMC), BMELI and medial clear space (MCS). Results: Taking arthroscopy as the reference standard, there were 34 patients with and 66 without DL injury. ALMC had 64.71% (22/34; 46.47–79.70) sensitivity and 83.33% (55/66; 71.71–91.00) specificity, BMELI had 70.59% (24/34; 52.33–84.29) sensitivity and 95.45% (63/66; 86.44–98.82) specificity and MCS had 26.47% (9/34; 13.51–44.65) sensitivity and 92.42% (61/66; 82.50–97.18) specificity. Compared with ALMC, BMELI had similar efficacy in superficial cases (P = 0.06) and greater efficacy in deep cases (P = 0.04). All three signs showed good interobserver agreement (kappa values all above 0.7). Conclusion: BMELI can reliably indicate concomitant injury to the DL in CAI patients. Using BMELI as a sign of chronic DL injury when ALMC is unclear may reduce the risk of a false negative diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Ankle fracture complicated with deltoid ligament injury is clinically common, and one stage repair of deltoid ligament with internal fracture fixation has gradually become a main therapeutic method, which can significantly reduce the long-term complications of ankle joint. In recent years, new progress has been made in anatomical structure characteristics and dynamic biomechanical research of deltoid ligament, thus greatly improving repairing techniques for injury in the deep layer of deltoid ligament, but there are still some controversies. OBJECTIVE: To explore the clinical efficacy of suture anchor and medial malleolus repair in the treatment of ankle joint fractures with the deep layer of deltoid ligament. METHODS: A total of 56 patients with ankle joint fractures and complete fracture of the deep and superficial layer of deltoid ligament treated in Affiliated Haikou Hospital, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University from January 2017 to January 2022 were selected, and they were divided into two groups according to different treatment methods in repairing the deep layer of deltoid ligament with suture anchor: suture anchor repair group (n=32) and medial malleolus repair group (n=24). The medial clear space of ankle joint and American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society Score of patients in the two groups were evaluated before and after operative treatment. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) All the 56 patients finished the surgery smoothly and were followed up for more than 12 months after operation. Their ankle fracture healed, and the time for fracture healing was 8-12 weeks, with a mean of 10.5 weeks. (2) The medial clear space of ankle joint in the two groups 12 months after operation was remarkably narrower than that before operation, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.001). The medial clear space of ankle joint in the two groups maintained a normal range 12 months after operation, and there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups (P > 0.05). (3) The AOFAS scale of patients in the two groups 6 and 12 months after operation was obviously bigger than that before operation (P < 0.001), but there was no statistically significant difference in the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society Score of patients between the two groups at corresponding time points (P > 0.05). (4) It is concluded that both suture anchor and medial malleolus repair in the treatment of injury in the deep layer of deltoid ligament can recover the medial clear space of ankle joint, effectively keep the stability of ankle, and thus achieve good clinical efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Deltoid ligament injuries occur in isolation as well as with ankle fractures and other ligament injuries. Both operative treatment and nonoperative treatment are used, but debate on optimal treatment continues. Likewise, the best method of surgical repair of the deltoid ligament remains unclear. Purpose: To determine the biomechanical role of native anterior and posterior components of the deltoid ligament in ankle stability and to determine the efficacy of simple suture versus augmented repair. Study Design: Controlled laboratory study. Methods: Ten cadaveric ankles (mean age, 51 years; age range, 34-64 years; all male specimens) were mounted on a 6 degrees of freedom robotic arm. Each specimen underwent biomechanical testing in 8 states: (1) intact, (2) anterior deltoid cut, (3) anterior repair, (4) tibiocalcaneal augmentation, (5) deep anterior tibiotalar augmentation, (6) posterior deltoid cut, (7) posterior repair, and (8) complete deltoid cut. Testing consisted of anterior drawer, eversion, and external rotation (ER), each performed at neutral and 25° of plantarflexion. A 1-factor, random-intercepts, linear mixed-effect model was created, and all pairwise comparisons were made between testing states. Results: Cutting the anterior deltoid introduced ER (+2.1°; P =.009) and eversion laxity (+6.2° of eversion; P <.001) at 25 degrees of plantarflexion. Anterior deltoid repair restored native ER but not eversion. Tibiocalcaneal augmentation reduced eversion laxity, but tibiotalar augmentation provided no additional benefit. The posterior deltoid tear showed no increase in laxity. Complete tear introduced significant anterior translation, ER, and eversion laxity (+7.6 mm of anterior translation, +13.8° ER and +33.6° of eversion; P <.001). Conclusion: A complete deltoid tear caused severe instability of the ankle joint. Augmented anterior repair was sufficient to stabilize the complete tear, and no additional benefit was provided by posterior repair. For isolated anterior tear, repair with tibiocalcaneal augmentation was the optimal treatment. Clinical Relevance: Deltoid repair with augmentation may reduce or avoid the need for prolonged postoperative immobilization and encourage accelerated rehabilitation, preventing stiffness and promoting earlier return to preinjury activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The deltoid ligament is a complex structure composed of multiple ligaments located on the medial side of the ankle joint that can be injured by ankle sprains. Although there have been previous reports on ultrasound imaging of the injured deltoid ligament, a systematic method for depicting each ligament component has not been established. This study aimed to clarify the ultrasound findings of the deltoid ligament in ankle sprains using a systematic scanning protocol. We examined the tenderness of the medial ankle and evaluated the ultrasound findings of the deltoid ligament in 169 sprained ankles with no fracture, within 3 days after injury. Observation and evaluation of the six components of the deltoid ligament were performed using a systematic scanning protocol with four probe positions. Of the 169 ankles, 48 ankles had tenderness in the deltoid ligament. Ultrasonography confirmed deltoid ligament damage in 13 of these 48 ankles. Of the 13 ankles, 3 ankles had damages only in the superficial layer, 3 ankles only in the deep layer, and 7 ankles in both the superficial and deep layers. We clarified the details of the damage pattern of the deltoid ligament in acute ankle sprains. It was possible to identify the superficial and deep layers of the ligament and to observe the damage pattern of each ligament component in detail, and it appeared that ultrasonography could be used as a tool to evaluate the damage pattern of the deltoid ligament in acute ankle sprains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To compare the clinical and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) results after arthroscopic deltoid ligament (DL) repair versus DL nonrepair in patients with rotational ankle instability. Methods: All patients with rotational ankle instability were enrolled in this retrospective cohort study. Clinical evaluation was performed by the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score, Karlsson Ankle Functional Score (KAFS), and Tegner activity score preoperatively and at a minimum follow-up of 2 years. MRI at follow-up was performed to evaluate the DL morphology. Results: A total of 50 patients were enrolled in this study. Among them, 24 patients received DL repair (the repair group), whereas 26 patients did not (the nonrepair group). No significant difference was found in the AOFAS score (98 ± 4 vs. 97 ± 4; n.s.), KAFS (94 ± 7 vs. 93 ± 9; n.s.), or Tegner activity score (5 ± 2 vs. 5 ± 1; n.s.) between the repair group and the nonrepair group at the final follow-up. However, the repair group had a significantly shorter return-to-sport time than the nonrepair group (4.6 ± 1.6 mo vs. 6.0 ± 2.5 mo; p = 0.03). Comparison of the postoperative deltoid ligament showed that the repair group had a lower signal intensity than the nonrepair group. Conclusion: Arthroscopic treatment of rotational ankle instability revealed good to excellent clinical results. However, patients who underwent DL repair had a significantly earlier return to sports as well as a lower signal intensity of DL than those who did not undergo DL repair. Level of evidence: Level III. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The anterior and posterior part of the deltoid ligament have different functions during ankle flexion motion. Partial ligament injuries have been demonstrated in previous clinical reports. However, the efficacy of external rotation stress test in partial injured cases is unavailable till now. Thirty-two fresh cadaveric specimens were included and allocated into two destabilization groups. In the first group, the anterior portion of deltoid ligament (DL) and syndesmotic ligament were sequentially severed, while in the second group, the posterior portion of DL and syndesmotic ligament were sequentially severed. Mortise view radiographs were taken after each destabilization stage when the ankles were placed at plantarflexion and dorsiflexion positions and stressed in standard external rotation force. The medial clear space (MCS) and talar tilt (TT) angle were measured and compared among different destabilization stages. When the ankles were placed at neutral position, the TT significantly increased in all destabilization stages. The MCS significantly increased after the partial deltoid ligament ruptures only with presence of syndesmotic ligament injuries. There was no significant difference of MCS at plantarflexion for all stages of destabilization if the anterior portion of DL is preserved. Similarly, no significant increase of MCS was detected at dorsiflexion if the posterior portion of DL and posterior inferior tibiofibular ligament are intact. Partial DL rupture causes ankle rotational instability at different ankle joint positions, especially when combined with syndesmotic injuries. The neutral position is recommended for diagnosis of partial DL ruptures under external rotation stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Length change pattern of the ankle deltoid ligament during physiological ankle motion is still confused currently and had not been studied in vivo.Methods: The deltoid ligaments from 7 cadaveric specimens were dissected. Lengths of each band during 30° plantarflexion to 20° dorsiflexion were measured. A dual fluoroscopy imaging system was utilized to capture the images of hindfoot joint of 7 healthy subjects during the stance phase of walking. 3D bone models were reconstructed from CT images. Lengths of each band were calculated after model-image registration utilizing a solid modeling software. Percentage of length variation and poses when the bands were in maximum extension were documented among each band.Results: The anterior border of tibiocalcaneal ligament (TCL) had only 1.7% length variation in vitro and 5.7% length variation in vivo. The tibionavicular ligament, tibiospring ligament, and deep anterior tibiotalar ligament were in maximum extension at 30° plantarflexion, however, superficial posterior tibiotalar ligament, deep posterior tibiotalar ligament, and the posterior border of TCL were in maximum extension at 20° dorsiflexion. The tibionavicular ligament, tibiospring ligament, and deep anterior tibiotalar ligament were in maximum extension during foot flat. The TCL was in maximum extension during midstance. The superficial posterior tibiotalar ligament and deep posterior tibiotalar ligament were in maximum extension during heel off and toe off.Conclusion: The length of TCL did not change during ankle dorsiflexion and plantarflexion. The bands anterior to and posterior to the TCL showed different length change pattern during physiological ankle dorsiflexion and plantarflexion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Indications for deltoid ligament repair in bimalleolar equivalent ankle fractures are unclear. This study compared radiographic outcomes in bimalleolar equivalent ankle fractures undergoing open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) +/- deltoid ligament repair.Methods: A retrospective review of 1024 ankle fractures was performed. Bimalleolar equivalent injuries treated with ORIF +/- deltoid ligament repair were included. Radiographic assessment was performed preoperatively, and at three months postoperatively.Results: One hundred and forty-seven ankle fractures met inclusion criteria with 46 undergoing deltoid ligament repairs. There was a significant decrease in medial clear space (1.93 ± 0.65 mm vs. 2.26 ± 0.64 mm, p = 0.01), and tibiofibular clear space (3.89 ± 1.20 mm vs. 4.87 ± 1.37 mm, p = 0.0001) at 3 months postoperative in the deltoid repair group compared to the no repair group. When syndesmotic fixation was performed, there were no differences between groups.Conclusion: Deltoid ligament repair in bimalleolar equivalent ankle fractures resulted in reduced medial clear space, and tibiofibular clear space in the early postoperative period. These differences were small and remained within established normal limits.Level Of Clinical Evidence: Level III, retrospective cohort study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To analyze the radiographic and clinical outcomes of deltoid ligament repair, we studied 34 supination external rotation type IV ankle fracture patients with deltoid ruptures who required syndesmosis fixation. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated 34 cases of ruptured deltoid ligaments with associated supination external rotation type IV ankle fractures with a widening of the syndesmosis between 2011 and 2017. All of the ankle fractures were treated with a similar surgical protocol (plate and screw fixation). Syndesmotic fixations were performed on all patients. The deltoid ligaments were surgically repaired in 19 patients and in 15 patients, they were not. The preoperative, immediate postoperative, and final follow-up radiographic outcomes (medial clear space, overlap space, and clear space) and clinical scores (Foot and Ankle Outcome Scores and the Foot Function Index) were compared. Patients were followed for an average of 13.6 months. Results: There was no significant difference in radiographic and clinical outcomes between the deltoid repair group and the unrepair group (P > 0.05). In both groups, the mean immediate postoperative radiographic outcomes were satisfactory, showing reduced MCS, reduced CS, and increased OS to within-normal ranges that were maintained at the final follow-up. Clinical outcomes were similar between the two groups (P > 0.05). The rate of complications, such as intra-articular lesions, malunions, nonunions, and arthrosis was comparable between the two groups. Conclusion: In both groups, the postoperative and final follow-up radiographic measures were within normal ranges and the radiographic and clinical outcomes were not significantly different between the two groups. Syndesmotic reduction could be much more important than deltoid repair in regard to mortise restoration and medial stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The deltoid ligament (DL) is an important stabilizer of the ankle. DL injury of varying severity can occur alone or with syndesmotic injury and fibular fracture. Limited diagnostic tools are available to assess DL injury quantitatively. Purpose: To establish an arthroscopic quantitative assessment of DL injury and to compare its performance with that of external rotation stress (ERS) and gravity stress (GS) radiography. Study Design: Controlled laboratory study. Methods: In total, 24 cadaveric lower extremities were divided into 4 groups: group 1 consisted of intact DL, group 2 of superficial DL disruption, group 3 of deep DL disruption, and group 4 of complete DL (superficial and deep) disruption. All specimens underwent sequential sectioning of syndesmotic ligaments, and medial clear space (MCS) was measured with ankle arthroscopy, ERS radiography, and GS radiography at different stages of syndesmotic sectioning. Results: For noninjured deltoid (group 1) and injured deltoid (groups 2-4), area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of measurement of MCS was 0.939 for arthroscopy, 0.932 for ERS radiography, and 0.874 for GS radiography, with a significant difference between arthroscopy and GS radiography (P =.014). For incomplete deltoid injury (groups 1-3) and complete deltoid injury (group 4), the AUC of MCS was 0.811 for arthroscopy, 0.656 for ERS radiography, and 0.721 for GS radiography, with a significant difference between arthroscopy and ERS radiography (P <.001) and between arthroscopy and GS radiography (P =.035). For all stages of syndesmotic sectioning, cutoff values of arthroscopic MCS with intact fibula were ≤2.5 mm for intact DL, between 2.5 and 3.5 mm for partial DL injury (superficial or deep), and ≥3.5 mm for complete DL injury. Arthroscopy was unable to detect a difference between superficial deltoid injury (group 2) and deep deltoid injury (group 3) in partial DL injury, with a measured MCS between 2.5 and 3.5 mm. The intraclass correlation coefficient of interrater reliability was 0.975 for arthroscopy, 0.917 for ERS radiography, and 0.811 for GS radiography. Conclusion: Arthroscopic MCS measurement can differentiate intact DL, partial DL injury, and complete DL injury. Compared with ERS and GS radiography, arthroscopic MCS measurement has greater accuracy with excellent interrater reliability. Clinical Relevance: For patients with suspected DL injury, arthroscopic MCS is useful for determining deltoid lesion severity based on defined cutoff values for consideration in preoperative planning to improve surgical outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Supination-external rotation (SER) ankle fractures account for the majority of ankle fractures and can be divided into stable or unstable fractures, based on the state of the deltoid ligament. The objective of this review was to appraise the available literature concerning diagnostic tools to evaluate deltoid ligament integrity in patients with SER-type ankle fractures.Methods: A comprehensive literature search of Pubmed and Embase was performed up to December 2020. The outcome measures were sensitivity, specificity and positive and negative predictive value of the diagnostic tools. A meta-analysis was performed to obtain an overview of sensitivity, specificity and area under the curve (AUC). The methodological quality of the articles was evaluated using Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies.Results: A total of 12 studies investigating tools for deltoid ligament rupture in patients with SER-type ankle fractures were included. The present study found sensitivity (and specificity) ranges of 0.20-0.90 (and 0.38-0.97) for clinical features, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) 0.57-0.85 (and 0.81-1.00), ultrasonography 1.00 (and 0.89-1.00), Malleolar Medial Fleck Sign (MMFS) 0.25 (and 0.99), conventional ankle mortise radiography 0.33-0.57 (and 0.60-0.94), gravity stress radiography 0.71-1.00 (and 0.72-0.88) and manual stress ankle radiography 0.65-1.00 (and 0.00-0.77). The largest AUC was found for ultrasonography, followed by MMFS, gravity stress radiography and MRI.Conclusion: Ultrasonography and gravity stress radiography seem the most accurate diagnostic tools to evaluate deltoid ligament integrity. To strengthen this conclusion, future research should use an identical reference test to ensure comparability of results. Nevertheless, present study is of high value to close the knowledge gap about which presently available diagnostic tool is to be preferred to evaluate deltoid ligament integrity in patients with SER-type ankle fractures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To have biodynamic features, the feet have bones located in a special posture, the joints that keep together those bones, the ligaments that provide linkage to those joints, and tendons of muscles particularly which end the foot. This study aimed to research the morphology of the medial side and plantar ligaments. The study was conducted on a total of 30 feet belonging to 2 women and 13 men cadavers that exist at the Anatomy Department of the Medical Faculty of Uludag University. After the dissections, 61 parameters that belonging to the ligaments and general features of the foot, were evaluated. The statistical analysis of the collected data was evaluated by SPSS 20.0. According to the findings, while the descriptive statistics of the foot and the ligaments related to the foot, the statistically significant difference of any of the parameters wasn't observed when they were compared between the right and left sides of the foot. In terms of the correlative relations, the parameters that showed high correlation were chosen and 28 formulas were developed using regression analysis. We foresee that our findings of the features belonging to normal anatomic structures will deepen our knowledge besides providing important benefits before or during orthopedic and plastic surgery operations related to the region. Also, our findings were discussed by comparing the findings of similar studies belonging to many other researchers in literature, and our study's contribution to the literature was evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When an ankle lateral malleolar fracture is accompanied by a deltoid ligament rupture without a medial malleolar fracture, such an injury is called a bimalleolar equivalent fracture. This means that even if there is no bony injury on the medial side, there may be functional instability of the ankle joint due to damage to the deltoid ligament. Manual or gravity external rotational stress radiography is used to differentiate an ankle bimalleolar equivalent fracture from an isolated lateral malleolar fracture. If the medial joint gap is widened on the stress radiography, the deltoid ligament injury can be diagnosed, and surgical treatment for fibula fractures is recommended. After open reduction of the fibula fracture (with syndesmotic fixation if needed), a decision on the repair of the deltoid ligament is taken depending on the surgeons' preference and intraoperative findings. The deltoid ligament repair is performed by inserting a suture anchor (or anchors) in the medial malleolus and fixing the deep and superficial deltoid ligaments to the medial malleolus. The only randomized study to evaluate the utility of deltoid ligament sutures in ankle fractures did not support the deltoid ligament suture, but the study itself had many limitations. An appropriately powered, randomized, controlled trial of the deltoid ligament repair with both patient-reported outcome and radiographic outcome evaluation is needed in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ankle fractures are among the most common injuries treated by orthopaedic traumatologists. These fractures range from stable, simple injuries to complex, multi-planar unstable ones. Osseo-ligamentous structures play a paramount role in maintaining the stability of the ankle joint. The deltoid ligament is among the most important ankle static stabilizers. Rupture of this ligament along with a lateral malleolar fracture is considered by many as an unstable type of injury and usually requires surgical treatment (bi-malleolar equivalent). Left untreated, it may lead to chronic pain, loss of function and secondary arthritis. Due to lack of high-quality evidence, there are no welldefined, well-accepted criteria for the diagnosis and treatment for treating this type of injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, the treatment for patients with deltoid ligament injuries who require surgical treatment are anatomical repair and reconstruction. The clinicians should understand the exact knowledge of attachment areas of individual bands of deltoid ligament for a successful treatment. We studied 46 ankles of fresh frozen cadavers. The individual bands of deltoid ligament were divided to small fibers. Afterwards, each small fiber of each band was cut and marked with acrylic color on the origin and insertion followed by photo taking. Lastly, the photos of individual origin and insertion were used to calculate the attachment areas. We found six bands of deltoid ligament in all ankles except tibionavicular ligament. Moreover, we discovered deep to tibiocalcaneal and posterior to sustentaculum tali ligaments in 3 cases. Regarding the attachment area, the deep posterior tibiotalar ligament had the largest proximal and distal attachment areas which were 87.36±23.15 mm2 and 88.88±24.24 mm2, respectively. The anterior tibiotalar ligament had the least proximal and distal attachment areas which were 23.12±8.25 mm2 and 33.16±14.63 mm2, respectively. Hence, the accuracy and exact areas of attachment of deltoid ligament are important as it can help clinicians to select the suitable treatments including injury prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Despite the increased use of ankle dorsiflexion without distraction, no reports have specifically addressed the arthroscopic anatomy of the ankle in this position. The purpose of this study was to describe the normal arthroscopic anatomy of the ankle joint, when using the ankle dorsiflexion and the dynamic distraction technique, and to propose an arthroscopic examination system for the anterior ankle compartment.Methods: Ankle arthroscopy was performed in 20 fresh frozen specimens. Arthroscopic examination was performed with the arthroscope introduced through the anteromedial portal. The anterior compartment was examined in ankle dorsiflexion without distraction. The compartment was examined in four steps: (1) lateral area including the lateral gutter; (2) the central area of the anterior tibial rim; (3) the medial area including the medial gutter; (4) the talar neck. Next, distraction was applied to visualise the anterior compartment again and to examine the central and posterior ankle compartments.Results: Anatomic intra-articular structures were visualised in all specimens. Four intra-articular fat pads, one anteromedial, two syndesmotic and another posteromedial, were constantly observed. A description of the normal arthroscopic anatomy of the ankle using the ankle dorsiflexion and the dynamic distraction technique is detailed for the anterior, central and posterior compartments.Conclusion: The ankle arthroscopic procedure without distraction allows constant visualisation of the ATFL's superior fascicle on the floor of the lateral gutter, the ATiFL's distal fascicle laterally and the most anterior margin of the deltoid ligament in the medial gutter (anterior tibiotalar ligament). However, ankle distraction is required to observe the central and posterior compartments, but it does not provide optimal visualisation of the anterior ankle compartment structures.Level Of Evidence: V. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: A thorough understanding of the arthroscopic anatomy is important to recognise pathological conditions. Although some ankle ligaments have been described as intra-articular structures, no studies have assessed the full visibility of these structures. The purpose of this study was to assess arthroscopic visibility of medial and lateral ankle collateral ligaments.Methods: Arthroscopy was performed in 20 fresh frozen ankles. The arthroscope was introduced through the anteromedial portal and the anterior compartment was explored in ankle dorsiflexion without distraction. Intra-articular structures were tagged using a suture-passer introduced percutaneously and they were listed in a table according to the surgeon's identification. After the arthroscopic procedure, the ankles were dissected to identify the suture-tagged structures.Results: According to the suture-tagged structures, 100% correlation was found between arthroscopy and dissection. In the anterior compartment, the superior fascicle of the anterior talofibular ligament, the distal fascicle of the anterior tibiofibular ligament and the anterior tibiotalar ligament on the medial side were observed. The deep fascicle of the posterior tibiofibular ligament and the intermalleolar ligament were tagged at the posterior compartment.Conclusion: Ankle dorsiflexion and non-distraction arthroscopic technique allows full visualisation of the medial and lateral ankle collateral ligaments: the superior fascicle of the anterior talofibular ligament, the distal fascicle of the anterior tibiofibular ligament and the anterior tibiotalar ligament. When using distraction, posterior structures as the deep fascicle of the posterior tibiofibular ligament and the intermalleolar ligament can be observed with anterior arthroscopy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: When the anterior fascicle of the deltoid ligament is injured in patients with chronic ankle instability, the diagnosis of rotational ankle instability is supported. The aim of this study was to report the results of an all-arthroscopic technique to concomitantly repair the lateral collateral and deltoid ligaments to treat patients with rotational ankle instability.Methods: Thirteen patients [12 men and 1 woman, median age 32 (15-54) years] with rotational ankle instability were treated by arthroscopic means after failing non-operative management. Median follow-up was 35 (18-42) months. Using a suture passer and knotless anchors, the ligaments were repaired with an arthroscopic all-inside technique.Results: During diagnostic arthroscopy, 12 patients showed an isolated anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) injury, and in one patient, both the ATFL and calcaneofibular ligament were affected. Arthroscopic examination of the deltoid ligament demonstrated a tear affecting the anterior area of the ligament in all cases. The tear was described as an "open book" tear, because the ligament was separated from the medial malleolus when applying passive internal rotation of the tibio-talar joint. This gap was closed when the tibio-talar joint was in neutral rotation or externally rotated. All patients reported subjective improvement in their ankle instability after the arthroscopic all-inside ligaments repair. The median AOFAS score increased from 70 (44-77) preoperatively to 100 (77-100) at final follow-up.Conclusion: Rotational ankle instability can be successfully treated by an arthroscopic all-inside repair of the lateral and medial ligaments of the ankle.Level Of Evidence: Level IV, retrospective case series. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In rotational ankle injury with isolated fibular fracture, deltoid integrity is important for determining stability of ankle. Medial clear space and superior clear space in gravity stress view are parameters widely used to predict deltoid ligament tear. The purpose of this study is to report radiographic parameters in gravity stress view in normal population.Methods: 120 persons were enrolled. Non weight-bearing ankle mortise and gravity stress view were obtained. Radiographic measurements were made by 2 investigators, including medial clear space (MCS), superior clear space (SCS), tibiofibular overlaps, tibiofibular clear space and talocrural angle. Statistical analysis included mean, mean difference, SD, 95%CI, paired T-test were calculated and subgroup analysis by foot length. Intraclass correlation coefficients were used to determine intra/interobserver reliability of measurement.Results: Mean MCS in gravity stress view was 3.19mm (95%CI 3.1-3.31). This compared to mean MCS of 3.01mm (95%CI 2.9-3.12) in mortise view which was statistically significant (P=0.02). Mean difference was 0.18mm (95%CI 0.07-0.3). SCS in gravity stress view was 3.29mm (95%CI 3.19-3.39) and when compared to MCS in gravity stress view, no statistical significance was found (P=0.158). Mean difference was 0.1mm (95%CI 0.03-0.21). In subgroup analysis by foot length, no significant difference was found in any parameters.Conclusions: This study provides normative radiographic data for a gravity stress radiograph and supports that if measurable MCS >4mm on gravity stress view, it should be aware of an unstable ankle in supination-external rotation injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Deltoid ligament injuries are typically caused by supination-external rotation or pronation injury. Numerous ligament reconstruction techniques have been proposed; however, clear indications for operative repair have not yet been well established in the literature.Methods: We reviewed primary research articles comparing ORIF treatment for ankle fracture with versus without deltoid ligament repair.Results: Five studies were identified with a total of 281 patients. 137 patients underwent ORIF with deltoid repair, while 144 patients underwent ORIF without deltoid ligament repair. Clinical, radiographic, and functional outcomes, as well as complications were considered. The average follow-up was 31 months (range, 5-120).Conclusions: Current literature does not provide clear indication for repair of the deltoid ligament at the time of ankle fracture repair. There may be some advantages of adding deltoid ligament repair for patients with high fibular fractures or in patients with concomitant syndesmotic fixation.Level Of Clinical Evidence: III. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Posterior malleolus fracture (PMF) fixed with lag screws presents greater stability in the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis. • Higher tibiotalar joint loadings promoted greater displacement and ligaments stress, regardless of the fixation technique. • Fixation techniques that promote lower stress in the syndesmosis is accompanied by a greater load on the deltoid ligament. The objectives of this study were to compare syndesmosis dislocation and ankle ligament stress after the fixation of the posterior malleolus fracture (PMF) with four different techniques by Finite Element Analysis (FEM). Four internal fixation techniques used for fixation of PMF were assessed by FEM: posterior one-third tubular 3.5 mm buttress plate (PP) with one screw (PP 1 screw), PP with two screws (PP 2 screws), two cannulated 3.5 mm lag screws in the anteroposterior (AP) direction (AP lag screws), and two posteroanterior (PA) cannulated 3.5 mm lag screws (PA lag screws). PMF with 30% fragment size was simulated through computational processing reconstructed from computed tomography (CT). The simulated loads of 700 N and 1200 N were applied to the proximal tibial end. The FEM evaluated the syndesmosis dislocation (mm) and stress values of the posterior tibiofibular ligament (PTFL) (in Kpa) and deltoid ligament (in Kpa) in the four mentioned subgroups. We found that with a load of 700 N, syndesmosis dislocation varied from 6.5 to 7.9 mm, being the lowest and greatest for PA lag screw and PP 1 screw, respectively. In all groups was observed a greater dislocation in the syndesmosis at 1200 N of load. We observed that the stress values on the PTFL were lower for AP lag screws and PP 2 screws with 700 N and 1200 N, respectively. For both loads, PP 1 screw presented the greatest stress. Regarding the stress in the deltoid ligament, the AP lag screws presented the lowest stress for 700 N and PP 1 screw for 1200 N. For all fixation techniques, the syndesmosis displacement and ligament stresses were higher when 1200 N were imposed. This study demonstrated that PMF fixed with lag screws presents greater stability in the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis and higher joint loadings promoted greater displacement and ligaments stress, regardless of the fixation technique. Besides, lower stress in the syndesmosis is accompanied by a greater load on the deltoid ligament. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Deltoid ligament (DL) rupture is commonly seen in clinical practice; however the need to explore and surgically repair it is still in debate. The objective of the current study is to compare the outcomes of surgical treatment of ankle fracture with or without DL repair.Methods: Between 2009 and 2015, Seventy-four ankle fractures with DL rupture were identified and followed. Twenty patients were treated with surgical repair of the DL, while 54 were not. The pre- and post-operative medial clear space (MCS) were measured and the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot score and visual analogue scale (VAS) were used for functional evaluation. According to the radiological malreduction of MCS, the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for each potential relative factor were calculated.Results: The mean followup time was 53.7 months. The mean MCS preoperatively, postoperatively, and at last followup time were 8.7 ± 2.4 (range, 6.2-14.8) mm, 3.7 ± 0.9 (range, 2.6-6.4) mm, 3.6 ± 1.0 (range, 2.6-6.8) mm, respectively. The mean AOFAS score was 86.4 ± 8.1 (range, 52-100) points, and the mean VAS was 1.4 ± 1.4 (range, 0-7) points. During followup, 14.9% (11/74) cases were found to be malreduced (MCS>5 mm), and 5.4% (4/74) went on to failure. Surgical repair of DL can significantly decrease the postoperative MCS (P<0.05), and can also decrease the malreduction rate (P<0.05). AO/OTA type-C ankle fractures showed a positive correlation with malreduction (OR = 4.38, P = 0.03). In this type of injury, surgical repair of the DL can significantly decrease the malreduction rate (P<0.05). No significant difference was found between the AO/OTA type-B fracture with or without DL repair.Conclusions: Surgical repair of the DL is helpful in decreasing the postoperative MCS and malreduction rate, especially for the AO/OTA type-C ankle fractures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To investigate the effect of internal fixation on postoperative ankle function in patients with supination-external rotation type IV ankle fractures, including medial malleolus fractures and deltoid ligament injury. Methods Between January 2012 and June 2014, patients with medial structure injuries were enrolled in this study and assigned to the medial malleolus fracture group or the deltoid ligament group. The surgical procedures for the two groups were documented. The follow-up endpoint was the time point when the steel plate or screw was removed from the lateral ankle. The Olerud-Molander ankle scoring system was used to assess ankle function. Results A total of 84 patients with supination-external rotation type IV ankle fractures had complete medical records and were included in this study. The average age of the patients was 44.16 years (range, 15-75). The patient sample included 39 males and 45 females. Overall, 49 patients (19 males and 30 females) suffered a medial malleolus fracture. The average age of these patients was 40.20 years (range, 15-75). Patients with a posterior malleolar fracture fragment >25% of the articular surface accounted for 81.6% (40 patients) of these patients. Overall, 35 patients (20 males and 15 females) experienced a deltoid ligament injury. The average age of these patients was 44.21 years (range, 17-73). Patients with a posterior malleolar fracture fragment >25% of the articular surface accounted for 11.5% (four patients) of these patients. Open reduction was performed in patients with medial malleolus fractures, and two 4.0-mm cannulated screws were used to fixate the posterior malleolus and the medial malleolus. The suture-anchor technique was used to repair the ligaments in patients with deltoid ligament injuries. The follow-up endpoint was the time point when the steel plate and screws were removed from the lateral ankle in patients. The average follow-up period was 13.4 months (range, 11-17). The Olerud-Molander ankle scoring system was used to assess postoperative ankle function. The average score for the patients in the medial malleolus fracture group was 90.3 points (range, 85-95). The average score for the patients in the deltoid ligament injury group was 87.7 points (range, 80-95). No significant differences were found in the scores between the two groups. Conclusion Medial malleolus fracture and deltoid ligament injury are two different presentations of supination-external rotation type IV ankle fractures. Anatomic reduction of the articular surface concurrent with restoration of ankle stability can achieve favorable results for these two injuries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To explore the efficacy of overlapping suture-anchor fixation for treatment of chronic deltoid ligament injury. Methods Seventeen patients (11 men, 6 women of mean age 32.1 years [range, 18-58 years]) who had undergone surgery for chronic deltoid ligament injury from January 2007 to December 2011 were retrospectively analyzed. Preoperatively, they had undergone bilateral weight-bearing posterior-anterior radiographs, ( MRI) and ultrasound examinations of the ankle. Ankle arthroscopy was performed to confirm the diagnosis, followed by surgery to clear intra-articular proliferating synovial tissues and remove cartilage debris and scar tissue. The deep layer of the deltoid ligament was sutured onto the tip of the medial malleolus and its superficial layer sutured onto its periosteum and fixed with suture anchors. American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society ( AOFAS) scoring system for the ankle-hindfoot was used to evaluate the ankles pre- and post-operatively. Results The 17 patients were followed up for 12-34 months (mean 20.1 months). The angle between the long axes of the talus and first metatarsal and the hindfoot angle measured in a hindfoot alignment view (as described by Saltzman) were reduced from 5.4° ± 1.8° and 8.2° ± 2.6° preoperatively to 4.0° ± 0.9° and 5.3° ± 1.3° postoperatively, respectively. The mean AOFAS ankle-hindfoot score was 76.8 ± 7.0 preoperatively and 94.1 ± 3.3 at the last follow-up visit. Ten patients were scored as excellent, six as good, and one as fair. Pain was relieved in all patients and no patients had recurrent deltoid ligament injury. Conclusion Using suture anchors to treat chronic deltoid ligament injury has relatively satisfactory outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: A literature review of the deltoid ligament was conducted, examining the current literature on anatomy, function, and treatment strategies. In particular, anatomical inconsistencies within the literature were evaluated, and detailed anatomical dissections are presented. Methods: A literature search was conducted on PubMed using keywords relevant to the deltoid ligament in the ankle and medial ankle instability. Primary research articles, as well as appropriate summary articles, were selected for review. Results: While it is well defined that the deltoid is contiguous and divided into one superficial and one deep portion, the creation of the individual fibres may be artificial. Furthermore, while improvements in imaging techniques and arthroscopy have not led to a consensus on the anatomy of the ligament, they may help improve recognition of deltoid injuries. Once identified, the majority of deltoid injuries can be treated via conservative treatment. However, reparative and reconstructive treatment strategies can also be used for complex acute injuries or chronic medial ankle instability. Conclusion: Given the continuing evolution of the anatomical understanding of the ligament, the current treatment protocol for deltoid injuries requires further standardization, with an emphasis on proper diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Injury to the syndesmosis and deltoid ligament is less common than lateral ligament trauma but can lead to significant time away from sport and prolonged rehabilitation. This literature review will discuss both syndesmotic and deltoid ligament injuries without fracture in the professional athlete. Methods: A narrative review was performed using PUBMED, OVID, MEDLINE and EMBASE using the key words syndesmosis, injury, deltoid, ankle ligaments, and athlete. Articles related to the topic were included and reviewed. Results: The incidence of syndesmotic injury ranges from 1 to 18 % of ankle sprains. This may be underreported and is an often missed injury as clinical examination is generally not specific. Both MRI and ultrasonography have high sensitivities and specificities in diagnosing injury. Arthroscopy may confirm the diagnosis, and associated intra-articular pathology can be treated at the same time as surgical stabilization. Significant deltoid ligament injury in isolation is rare, there is usually associated trauma. Major disruption of both deep and superficial parts can lead to ankle dysfunction. Repair of the ligament following ankle fracture is not necessary, but there is little literature to guide the management of deltoid ruptures in isolation or in association with syndesmotic and lateral ligament injuries in the professional athlete. Conclusion: Management of syndesmotic injury is determined by the grade and associated injury around the ankle. Grade I injuries are treated non-surgically in a boot with a period of non-weight bearing. Treatment of Grade II and III injuries is controversial with little literature to guide management. Athletes may return to training and play sooner if the syndesmosis is surgically stabilized. For deltoid ligament injury, grade I and II sprains should be treated non-operatively. Unstable grade III injuries with associated injury to the lateral ligaments or the syndesmosis may benefit from operative repair. Level of evidence: IV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Isolated deltoid ligament injuries are relatively uncommon but can be a significant source of pain and disability. Several approaches to deltoid reconstruction have been reported. However, there is no previous comparative study of Wiltberger, Deland, Kitaoka and Hintermann procedures with respect to biomechanical characteristics such as kinematics, ligaments and grafts stresses using finite element analysis. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the biomechanical results of those deltoid ligament reconstructions using finite element analysis. Methods: A three-dimensional finite element model of the ankle including six bony structures, cartilage and nine principal ligaments surrounding the ankle joint complex was developed and validated. In addition to the intact model, superficial deltoid-deficient, deltoid-deficient, Wiltberger reconstruction, Deland reconstruction, Kitaoka reconstruction and Hintermann reconstruction models were simulated. Then, the forces in the ligaments and grafts and the kinematics of talus and calcaneus were predicted for an eversional or external torque through the range of ankle flexion. Results: No reconstructions could completely restore the values for ankle flexibility and the stresses of the lateral ligaments to normality. The Kitaoka procedure was the most effective technique in eliminating external rotation displacement. The Deland procedure restored better the talar tilt than the other three reconstructions. Conclusion: This study showed that Kitaoka and Deland procedures have advantages with regard to rotational stabilities as well as ligaments stress in comparison with other methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myositis ossificans traumatica is a relatively common injury associated with sports especially those involving contact. It continues to frustrate both athlete and health practitioner alike due to its continued lack of treatment options and a lengthy natural history. This case study chronicles the observation of a 34 year old recreational ice hockey player who presented 7 years post-trauma, was diagnosed with myositis ossificans traumatica and was followed up on 8 years later (15 years post-trauma). This case report is suspected to be the first published case study of its kind. The literature review outlines the various types of myositis ossificans, its incidence, pathogenesis, differential diagnoses including osteosarcoma, and the various methods/modalities reported in its treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Review the literature concerning modalities to evaluate the integrity of the deltoid ligament in patients with supination external rotation ankle fractures. The electronic databases Pubmed/Medline, CINAHL and Embase were searched from 1987 to November 2007 to identify all published original studies concerning diagnostic modalities to evaluate the integrity of the deltoid ligament in adult ankle fractures. This review included nine studies involving 423 ankle fractures. Three trails investigated medial tenderness; two studies, ecchymosis; two studies, swelling; one study, an injury radiograph; six studies, a type of radiographic stress view; one study, the Lauge-Hansen classification; one study, MRI; and one article studied arthroscopy in the evaluation of the deltoid ligament integrity. Swelling, ecchymosis, medial tenderness, initial injury radiographs and the Lauge-Hansen classification are less adequate predictors of the integrity of the deltoid ligament. Manual or the less painful variant, the gravity external rotation stress radiographs are considered the gold standard. The amount of medial clear space widening indicative of a positive external rotation stress test has been somewhat variable in the literature but ≥5 mm is generally regarded as most reliable. Achieving adequate external rotation of the foot when obtaining stress radiographs is more important than positioning the ankle in the appropriate degree of ankle flexion. The amount of applied force necessary when performing an external rotation stress radiograph is not well defined and mainly determined by the patient’s pain level. The indication for surgery should not be based on the absolute value of one parameter but on the combination of several parameters. If nonoperative treatment is chosen despite a positive stress radiograph, close follow-up is critical because subluxation of the ankle joint is still possible. MRI could be useful in individual cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The deltoid ligament is composed of the superficial and deep layers. Disruption of the deltoid ligament can occur in rotational ankle fracture, chronic ankle instability, or stage 4 posterior tibial tendon dysfunction. Correcting valgus tilt at the time of flatfoot reconstruction in case of stage 4 posterior tibial tendon dysfunction may prevent future collapse and the need for ankle arthrodesis or possibly ankle arthroplasty. We describe a technique of reconstruction of both the superficial and deep deltoid ligaments by peroneus longus tendon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The deltoid ligament in the unbroken ankle assures restraint to eversion and external rotation of the talus on the tibia. The moment when the deltoid ligament breaks, there appears a bimalleolar equivalent and the surgeon finds himself in front of many diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. The talar neck fractures shows a high rate of complications, such as avascular osteonecrosis and post-traumatic osteoarthritis, which can be reduced through an adequate management. Objective: The treatment of isolated lateral malleolar fractures with the torn deltoid ligament is still controversial. There is no unity regarding the optimal cure or the preferred surgical method for the treatment of the deltoid ligament's acute lesions during an attachment. Retraction of the ligament with subsequently healing in a non-anatomic position causes instability, persistent medial pain with the function loss and with a high risk of early arthritis. Our study tries to analyze the results of the ligament's fixing during the attachment of an ankle fracture. Material and methods: The subject, a 46 years old man, shows up in the clinics with bimalleolar equivalent fracture and talar neck contortion. The diagnosis is confirmed by Röntgen rays. First of all, there is done the fracture deduction on an open focus and osteosynthesis with plate and nails, a nail for tibiaperone diastasis and deltoid reconstruction. Results: The deltoid ligament tears are rare, so it is very important to manage with careful assessment with through clinical examination and appropriate imaging, by examining the whole fibula, the lateral ligaments and the syndesmosis, in order to exclude the lateral lesion or the fibula fracture. Conclusions: So far there are arguments, which attest that this surgery is an effective way of treating a broken ankle with a torn ligament, by open reduction, internal fixing and repairing the broken ligament. These can heal the median instability and has a satisfactory efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]