IntroductionA lateral ankle sprain is one of the most frequent reasons for consultation at the emergency trauma unit. Numerous surgical procedures have been described with long-term outcomes that differ.HypothesisThe long-term results of anatomical repair of the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) and the calcaneofibular (CFL) ligament are better, with less secondary radiological osteoarthritis than non-anatomical repair.Materials and methodsA review of the literature after a minimum follow-up of 10 years was performed to analyze the clinical and radiological results of direct anatomical repair (Broström, Duquennoy) and non-anatomical repair (Watson Jones, Evans, Castaing). Thirteen articles were selected.ResultsEight hundred and one ankles were evaluated after a mean follow-up of 15.3 years. The functional outcome was better after anatomical repair but with recurrent instability. Loss of range of motion and secondary osteoarthritis was more frequent after non-anatomical repair.ConclusionAnatomical repair of the lateral collateral ligament of the ankle resulted in a better functional outcome and less secondary osteoarthritis than non-anatomical repair.Study designReview of the literature; level of proof IV. |