Evaluation of anterior talofibular ligament lesion using 3-dimensional computed tomography

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the applicability of 3-dimensional computed tomography (3D CT) imaging for the diagnosis of anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) injury. METHODS: Six patients with lateral instability of ankle joint were examined with 3D CT preoperatively. Three patients had chronic ATFL tear, and the others had os subfibulare. 3D CT images were compared with magnetic resonance imaging and the operative findings. RESULTS: The ATFL in the uninvolved side could be depicted clearly by 3D CT in all patients. In patients with chronic ATFL tear, 3D CT could evaluate the condition of ATFL remnant much better than MRI. In patients with os subfibulare, the relationship between bone fragment and ATFL was clearly imaged in 3D CT. Surgical findings in all patients were correlated well with 3D CT. CONCLUSIONS: This study showed that 3D CT has the possibility of being a useful diagnostic tool for evaluation of ATFL lesion.