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Landa Spine & Orthopedic Center Offering Ankle Ligament Repair and Reconstruction

Landa Spine & Orthopedic Center now offers ankle ligament repair and reconstruction for a wide range of ankle injuries and conditions. Ankle ligament repair is used to treat complete tears of the ankle ligament that can result in ankle instability. People who have sustained this type of injury are typically unable to complete normal activities that involve turning or twisting of the ankle. When conservative measures such as rest, pain relievers, and physical therapy are not enough, ankle ligament repair and reconstruction may be an effective treatment option. 

What Is Ankle Ligament Repair?

The goal of lateral ankle ligament repair is to firm and tighten one or more ligaments on the outside of the ankle. This surgery is typically done on an outpatient basis, so most patients can return home the same day.

The ankle joint moves side to side as well as up and down. There are several ligaments in the foot and ankle. These ligaments are strong, band-like structures that keep the ankle bones and foot bones connected securely. The ligaments on the outside of the foot include the calcaneofibular ligament (CFL) and the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL), which helps provide stability for your foot and ankle as you walk.

Repeated ankle sprains and certain medical conditions can cause these ligaments to weaken and become looser, making the affected ankle unstable. During ankle reconstruction, the surgeon will make a small incision on the outside of the ankle while the patient is under general anesthesia. Then, the ligaments in this area can be tightened up to be more stable.

Who Needs Ankle Ligament Repair?

People whose ankle ligaments have stretched or loosened might need this surgery. Chronic ankle instability can cause pain, repeated ankle sprains, or the ankle giving out when performing regular activities such as walking. If you sprain your ankle just once, it can stretch and partially tear the ligaments, making it more likely that you will sprain it again. Multiple sprains cause even more problems. Some patients require surgery after their first sprain; others experience repeated sprains and try other treatments first, such as physical therapy and orthotics. If these treatments haven’t worked or your sprain is severe enough, your provider may recommend ankle repair surgery.

The surgery itself may take two or more hours. Your surgeon will explain what you should expect, but in general, expect to be given general anesthesia, be observed for a period after surgery, and go home the same day. After about 10 days, you will need to return to have any staples or stitches removed. You may also have a cast, boot, or brace to wear for an appropriate amount of time.

If you would like more information about treatment options for ankle injuries and disorders, please contact Landa Spine & Orthopedic Center at (201) 753-8862 or email Contact@LandaSpine.com. You may also use their online contact form.