Arthroscopic Arthrodesis of the Distal Tibiofibular Syndesmosis

Stabilization of Anterior Aspect of Distal Tibiofibular Syndesmosis: A Fully Arthroscopic Technique

The anteroinferior tibiofibular ligament (AITFL) is 1 of the 4 ligaments forming the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis. When damaged, it is crucial to assess and address the lesion properly because a neglected or underdiagnosed lesion may invoke ankle osteoarthritis with underlying tibiofibular joint instability. In this technical note, we present a fully arthroscopic stabilization of the AITFL without the need for soft-tissue grafting. Our technique aims to create horizontal suture fixation over the damaged AITFL that serves as a mechanically efficient stabilization for the anterior aspect of the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis.

Comparison of Ligament-Repair Techniques for the Syndesmosis: A Simulated Cadaveric Weight-Bearing Computed Tomography Analysis

Although the literature describes a variety of reconstructive techniques for the syndesmosis, only few studies offer comparative data. Therefore, the authors compared 2 different ligament repair techniques for the syndesmosis. Sixteen paired fresh-frozen human cadaveric lower limbs were embedded in polymethyl methacrylate mid-calf and placed in a custom-made weightbearing simulation frame. Computed tomography scans of each limb were obtained in a simulated foot-flat loading (75N) and single-leg stance (700N) in 5 different foot positions (previously reported data). One of each pair was then reconstructed via 1 of 2 methods: a free medial Achilles tendon autograft or a long peroneal tendon ligament repair. The specimens were rescanned, compared with their respective intact states and directly with each other. Measurements of fibular diastasis, rotation, anteroposterior translation, mediolateral translation, and fibular shortening were performed on the axial cuts of the computed tomography scans, 1 cm proximal to the roof of the plafond. There was no significant difference in fibular positioning with direct comparison of the reconstructions. Comparisons with their respective intact states, however, showed differences in their abilities to control reduction, most notably in the externally rotated and dorsiflexed positions of the foot. Neither reconstruction was clearly superior in restoring physiologic conditions. Only with a comparison of each technique to its respective intact state were differences between the techniques revealed, a benefit of this particular testing method.

APKASS Consensus Statement on Chronic Syndesmosis Injury, Part 2: Indications for Surgical Treatment, Arthroscopic or Open Debridement, and Reconstruction Techniques of Suture Button and Screw Fixation

Background:

The indications for surgical treatment of chronic syndesmosis injury are challenging for many orthopaedic clinicians, as there is no international consensus on the optimal management of these injuries.

Purpose:

An international group of experts representing the field of sports injuries in the foot and ankle area was invited to collaboratively advance toward consensus opinions based on the best available evidence regarding chronic syndesmosis injury. All were members of the Asia-Pacific Knee, Arthroscopy and Sports Medicine Society (APKASS).

Study Design:

Consensus statement.

Methods:

From November to December 2020, a total of 111 international experts on sports medicine or ankle surgery participated in a 2-stage Delphi process that included an anonymous online survey and an online meeting. A total of 13 items with 38 statements were drafted by 13 core authors. Of these, 9 items with 17 clinical questions and statements were related to indications for surgical treatment, arthroscopic versus open debridement, and suture button versus screw fixation reconstruction techniques and are presented here. Each statement was individually presented and discussed, followed by a general vote. The strength of consensus was characterized as follows: consensus, 51% to 74%; strong consensus, 75% to 99%; and unanimous, 100%.

Results:

Of the 17 questions and statements, 4 achieved unanimous support, 11 reached strong consensus, and 2 reached consensus.

Conclusion:

This APKASS consensus statement, developed by international experts in the field, will assist surgeons and physical therapists with surgical indications and techniques for chronic syndesmosis injury.

APKASS Consensus Statement on Chronic Syndesmosis Injury, Part 3: Fusion Techniques, Comorbidity Treatments, Postoperative Rehabilitation, and Return-to-Sport Indications

Background:

Questions regarding surgical fusion techniques, postoperative treatment, and indications for return to sport after chronic syndesmosis injury or its comorbidities remain unanswered.

Purpose:

An international group of experts representing the field of injuries in the foot and ankle area was invited to collaboratively advance toward consensus opinions based on the best available evidence regarding chronic syndesmosis injury. All were members of the Asia-Pacific Knee, Arthroscopy and Sports Medicine Society (APKASS).

Study Design:

Consensus statement.

Methods:

From November to December 2020, a total of 111 international experts on sports medicine or ankle surgery participated in a 2-stage Delphi process that included an anonymous online survey and an online meeting. A total of 13 items with 38 statements were drafted by 13 core authors. Of these, 4 items with 6 clinical questions and statements were related to surgical fusion techniques, comorbidity treatments, postoperative rehabilitation, and return-to-sports indications and are presented here. Each statement was individually presented and discussed, followed by a general vote. The strength of consensus was characterized as follows: consensus, 51% to 74%; strong consensus, 75% to 99%; and unanimous, 100%.

Results:

Of the 6 questions and statements, 5 achieved unanimous support and 1 reached strong consensus.

Conclusion:

This APKASS consensus statement, developed by international experts in the field, will assist surgeons and physical therapists with surgical and postoperative treatment strategies for chronic syndesmosis injury.

Acute and Chronic Syndesmotic Instability: Role of Surgical Stabilization

Acute and chronic syndesmotic injuries significantly impact athletic function and activities of daily living. Patient history, examination, and judicious use of imaging modalities aid diagnosis. Surgical management should be used when frank diastasis, instability, and/or chronic pain and disability ensue. Screw and suture-button fixation remain the mainstay of treatment of acute injuries, but novel syndesmotic reconstruction techniques hold promise for treatment of acute and chronic injuries, especially for athletes. This article focuses on anatomy, mechanisms of injury, diagnosis, and surgical reduction and stabilization of acute and chronic syndesmotic instability. Fixation methods with a focus on considerations for athletes are discussed.

The effect of ankle distraction on arthroscopic evaluation of syndesmotic instability: A cadaveric study

BACKGROUND

To assist with visualization, orthopaedic surgeons often apply ankle distraction during arthroscopic procedures. The study aimed to investigate whether ankle distraction suppresses fibular motion in cadaveric specimens with an unstable syndesmotic injury.

METHODS

Fourteen fresh-frozen above knee specimens underwent arthroscopic assessment with 1) intact ligaments, 2) after sectioning of the anterior inferior tibiofibular ligament, the interosseous ligament, and the posterior inferior tibiofibular ligament, and 3) after sectioning of the deep and superficial deltoid ligament. In all scenarios, the lateral hook test, anterior-posterior hook test, and posterior-anterior hook test were applied. Each test was performed with and without ankle distraction. Coronal plane anterior and posterior tibiofibular diastasis as well as sagittal plane tibiofibular translation due to the applied load were arthroscopically measured.

FINDINGS

Tibiofibular diastasis in the coronal plane, as measured at both the anterior and posterior third of the incisura, was found to be significantly less when ankle distraction was applied, as compared to arthroscopic evaluation in the absence of distraction. In contrast, measurement of sagittal plane tibiofibular translation was not affected by ankle distraction.

INTERPRETATION

Since arthroscopic findings of syndesmotic instability are subtle the differential values of the syndesmotic measurements taken on and off distraction are clinically relevant. To optimally assess syndesmotic instability one should evaluate the syndesmosis without distraction or focus on fibular motion in the sagittal plane when distraction is required.

Endoscopic Distal Tibiofibular Syndesmosis Arthrodesis

Chronic distal tibiofibular syndesmosis disruption can be managed by endoscopic arthrodesis of the syndesmosis. This is performed through the proximal anterolateral and posterolateral portals. The scar tissue and bone block are resected to facilitate the subsequent reduction of the syndesmosis. The reduction of the syndesmosis can be guided either arthroscopically or endoscopically. The tibial and fibular surfaces of the tibiofibular overlap can be microfractured to facilitate subsequent fusion.