An Ultrasound Classification of Anterior Talofibular Ligament (ATFL) Injury

BACKGROUND:To develop a classification of ATFL injury based on the ultrasonography. METHODS:The ultrasound images of 560 cases that had chronic ankle instability were studied from May 2012 to May 2015. All the patients accepted ultrasonography to type the ATFL injury. RESULTS:The ATFL injuries could be divided into six subtypes based on ultrasound imaging: I: Intact ligament; II: Injury at the fibular side; III:Injury at the talar side; IV: Tear at the midsubstance; V:Ligament absorbed; VI:Combined injury. CONCLUSION:Ultrasound could be used to evaluate and type the injury of ATFL. This kind of classification could be helpful in the preoperative decision of ATFL procedure.