Acute syndesmotic instability in ankle fractures: A review

Foot Ankle Surg. 2017 Sep;23(3):135-141. doi: 10.1016/j.fas.2016.04.001. Epub 2016 Apr 25.

Abstract

Ankle fractures are among the most common fracture types, and 10% of all ankle fractures lead to accessory syndesmotic injury. An injury that is challenging in every respect is syndesmotic instability. Since the range of diagnostic techniques and the therapeutic options is extensive, it still is a controversial subject, despite the abundance of literature. This review aimed to summarize the current knowledge on syndesmotic instability in ankle fractures and to formulate some recommendations for clinical practice. Chronic instability and the operative osseous treatment of ankle fractures are not part of this review.

Keywords: Aftercare; Anatomy; Ankle; Diagnosis; Fracture; Syndesmosis; Treatment.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Ankle Fractures / diagnostic imaging
  • Ankle Fractures / surgery*
  • Ankle Injuries / diagnostic imaging
  • Ankle Injuries / surgery*
  • Ankle Joint / diagnostic imaging
  • Ankle Joint / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Joint Instability / diagnostic imaging
  • Joint Instability / surgery*
  • Ligaments, Articular / diagnostic imaging
  • Ligaments, Articular / injuries
  • Ligaments, Articular / surgery*