One of the most prevalent sports-related ailments is ankle sprains. The discomfort and instability in the ankle can result from strained or torn ligaments. One can opt for non-surgical treatments at first. But, if the symptoms continue, surgery may be the only way out. Ankle ligament reconstruction surgery aims to return the ankle to normal stability. It should help alleviate any pain associated with an unstable ankle, as well as the sensation that the ankle “gives out.”
Diagnosis for an ankle
Doctors may suggest surgery if an unstable ankle refuses to respond to non-surgical treatments like bracing or physical therapy. Doctors deliver a non-surgical treatment six months before the surgery. The foot and ankle orthopedic surgeon performs a physical examination to establish that the ankle is unstable. X-rays can also be helpful to aid in the diagnosis.
Any surgery depends on the overall health of the patient. This type of surgery may not be beneficial if one has nerve or collagen disorders. If one has specific medical conditions, has poor circulation, or cannot follow the prescribed post-surgical rehab, they should not have this operation. One should discuss any issues that they may have with the foot and ankle orthopedic surgeon.
Treatment – ankle ligament reconstruction surgery
Ankle ligament reconstruction is often performed as an outpatient treatment, meaning that the patient can return home the same day. The procedure takes place under general or regional anesthesia. Other operations, most often arthroscopic ankle joint surgery, may be performed parallelly. The ligament restoration requires at least one bigger incision.
Depending on the individual patient, experts may take various approaches. One alternative is to use stitches to mend the patient’s ligaments. Because of the support provided by other tissues, this repair may be more durable. Another method is to replace the destroyed ligaments with a tendon. This procedure is comparable to that used in the reconstruction of knee ligaments.
Recovery
One should plan on being in a splint or cast for at least two weeks. For up to six weeks, they may need to keep their weight off their ankle. Wearing a detachable walking boot, one will be able to put weight on their ankle gradually. After the boot, an athletic ankle brace is usually worn.
The outcomes of lateral ankle ligament reconstruction surgery will vary depending on the severity of the initial injury. Physical therapy or a brace may help patients who have chronic instability after surgery.
