Reconstruction of the lateral ankle ligaments using the anterior half of peroneus longus tendon graft

Abstract Background This study aimed to report our institution's experience in the treatment of chronic lateral ankle instability using the anterior half of the peroneus longus tendon (AHPLT) to reconstruct the lateral ligament. Methods This retrospective study included 32 consecutive patients with chronic lateral ankle instability who underwent surgery from January 2013 to December 2014. All patients had failed to resolve with conservative treatment. A total of 32 ankles underwent AHPLT transfer. Patients returned for a clinical and radiologic follow-up evaluation at an average of 28 (range, 24–35) months postoperatively. Outcomes were assessed by comparison of pre- and postoperative American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scores, visual analog scale pain scores, and Karlsson scores, and the radiographic assessment including talar tilt and anterior talar translation. Results Thirty-two patients (32 ankles) (100%) returned for final evaluation. All patients had an excellent or good outcome on patient subjective self-assessment, pain scores, AOFAS scores, and Karlsson scores at final follow-up. Ankle range of motion was not affected by lateral ankle reconstruction. The talar tilt was significantly reduced from a preoperative mean of 14.1±4.2° to 3.4±1.3° postoperatively ( P P Conclusions AHPLT transfer to reconstruct the lateral ligament resulted in a high percentage of successful results, with excellent ankle stability and not affected of ankle motion. Level of evidence Level III-retrospective comparative study.