Lateral Ankle Reconstruction

A lateral ankle reconstruction is performed to treat ankle instability and repair damaged ligaments. The procedure involves a keyhole (arthroscopy) assessment of the ankle joint using two small portals at the front of the ankle. This allowed the surgeon to look inside the joint and treat any problems. Dr Smith then makes an additional incision on the outside of the ankle to repair the ligaments. To restore stability, an internal bracing system is used which involves placing small anchors into the bone of the fibula (outer ankle bone) and talus, with strong sutures attached to hold the ligament securely in the correct position. What results is a strong and stable ankle. Post-operatively, you are limited to flexion and extension movements only. No inversion or eversion of the foot can occur until 6 weeks post-op. You will initially weight-bear in a moonboot, and then transfer into an ankle brace at three weeks post-op