Lateral Ankle Ligament Reconstruction Surgery

The ankle is made up of a range of muscles, bones, joints and soft tissue elements that allow it to move up and down and side to side. However, when the ankle is overworked, or an element is damaged, it can lead to mobility issues that affect our daily activities.

Ligaments are strong bands that keep your foot and ankle tightly connected while allowing flexibility. Without these, your ankle is completely unstable. So, when the ligaments become worn or damaged, it can make your daily movement a challenge.

What is lateral ankle ligament reconstruction surgery?

The surgical reconstruction of ligaments on the outside of the ankle involves an outpatient procedure to tighten the damaged or worn ligaments. This procedure can also correct a foot or ankle deformity that leads to instability.

Dr Alexander provides this surgical procedure at his doctor's suites after performing a thorough diagnosis of your condition.

When is lateral ankle ligament reconstruction surgery necessary?

The most common reason for lateral ankle ligament reconstruction surgery is chronic ankle instability, whereby the ligaments on the outside of the ankle become loose or stretched. This causes instability and pain that can, in turn, lead to more fractures and sprains.

Other instances where you may need reconstruction surgery include:

• Foot and ankle deformities that cause the loosening of ligaments
• A high arch in the foot (midfoot cavus)
• Outward-turned ankles (high varus)
• Inward-turned ankles (flatfoot)

Dr Alexander may recommend non-surgical treatments as an initial option before advising surgical intervention.

How is lateral ankle ligament reconstruction surgery performed?

Dr Alexander performs ligament reconstruction while you are under general anaesthesia and your foot and ankle are numbed. He will make an incision on the outer part of your ankle to remove, repair or re-route the damaged ligament.

The procedure will depend on your case and how your ligaments have been affected. In addition, Dr Alexander may make other necessary repairs to the bone or tendons. Once complete, he will stitch the incision and bandage the ankle with a splint.

Recovery after lateral ankle ligament reconstruction surgery

You will be allowed to go home on the same day as the surgery once Dr Alexander has cleared your vital signs. However, you will need to be driven home and keep your foot elevated and dry for several weeks.

After about 10 days, Dr Alexander will remove the stitches and replace the stint with a cast or ankle boot. This will later be changed to an ankle brace that you need to wear for several months until your ankle has completely healed.

Misalignment is a high risk, so ensure you maintain regular check-ins with your doctor for X-rays and progress updates.