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In suspected Ankle Instability, the parameters that can be defined in the X-ray have their limitation owing to their variability in positioning and rotation of the tibiofibular joint. This inaccuracy further increases due to variability in morphometric parameters of distal tibiofibular syndesmosis among different populations based on race and sex. This research aims to study morphometry of normal distal tibiofibular syndesmosis based on computed tomography imaging in the Indian population. An Prospective observational study was performed from December 2020 to October 2022 on normal ankle CT scans of 100 Indian population using axial, sagittal, and coronal CT images. Anterior and posterior tibiofibular distance, Morphology of the incisura fibularis based on depth, Tibiofibular clear space (TFCS) and tibiofibular overlap (TFO), Transverse and longitudinal length of the fibula, and Relationship between the center of the talus and the center of a line joining the outer aspect of malleoli in the coronal plane were measured and analyzed by two different observers. Out of the 100 participants, 77 (77 %) were male, and 23 (23 %) were female. The overall mean age of participants was 34.69 ± 9.7 years. The incisura fibularis was concave in 54 %, and shallow in 46 %. Anterior tibiofibular distance, Posterior tibiofibular distance, and Tibiofibular overlap were significantly different in comparison to the male with female populations (p-value < 0.05). This study gives the indices that describe normal variations in the anatomical relationship between the fibula and fibular incisure in the Indian population, which will be helpful for improving the diagnostic accuracy of distal tibiofibular syndesmoses and providing optimal treatment in order to improve functional outcomes and reduce the risk of complications. III. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: ligamentous injuries of the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis resulting in its opening are common occurrences in traumatology; however, their diagnosis poses a challenge for orthopedic surgeons. The tibioastragaloid mortise radiograph view is the most commonly used method for diagnosing this type of injury, but its reliability is compromised due to variations in ankle positioning during the study, which often depend on the operator. Objective: to demonstrate that the designed device achieves a correct and consistent radiographic image of the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis in the mortise view. Material and methods: we present a prospective, longitudinal, observational study. We designed a polypropylene device that maintains the ankle at 90 degrees of dorsiflexion and 15 degrees of internal rotation. The device was used to take mortise view radiographs of healthy ankles, and corresponding measurements were taken to assess the syndesmosis. Results: we evaluated a total of 46 radiographs of healthy ankles, with a predominance of left ankles. The obtained measurements were as follows: anterior tibiofibular distance (ATFD) ranged from 3 to 6 mm, posterior tibiofibular distance (PTFD) ranged from 1 to 3 mm, tibiofibular clear space (TFCS) ranged from 2 to 3 mm, and a Merle D'Aubigne ratio of 2:1 was observed in all ankles. When comparing the measurements obtained with those established by Harper and Keller, no statistically significant difference was found (χ² < 5). Conclusion: with the use of the designed device, we achieved a correct and consistent radiographic image of the mortise and the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the reproducibility and the accuracy of distal tibiofibular syndesmosis (DTFS) as landmark to perform controlled varus tibial resections during total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The hypothesis was that DTFS can be used to perform an accurate 3° varus tibial cut. Methods: A retrospective analysis on a consecutive series of standard weightbearing full-length anteroposterior views of the lower limbs radiographic images was conducted. For each radiograph, the hip–knee–ankle (HKA) angle, the angle between the tibial mechanical axis and the line connecting the centre of the tibial spines and the DTFS (tibiofibular angle, TFA) and the medial proximal tibial angle (MPTA) were calculated. Each measurement was carried out twice by three independent observers, and intra- and inter-observer measurement reliability were assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) analysis. Results: A total of 1296 lower limbs were analysed from a series of 648 weightbearing full-length anteroposterior radiographs. The ICC were > 90% for all measurements. The mean TFA value was 2.94 ± 0.68 (range 2.38–3.51). No differences were detected comparing the mean TFA value on the right and left limb (p = 0.795) as well as comparing the values in male and female patients (p = 0.691). Linear regression analysis did not find statistically significant correlation between TFA and MPTA, or TFA and HKA angles, respectively. Conclusion: The distal tibiofibular syndesmosis is a reliable and easy reproducible radiographic landmark that can be used when planning a 3° varus tibial cut. Future studies are needed to confirm the validity of this method also in clinical settings. Level of evidence: IV, retrospective case series. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives The role of the distal tibiofibular ligament in the occurrence of high ankle sprain (HAS) has been widely studied. But previous studies have overlooked the physiological and anatomical differences between males and females and have not further refined gender. Therefore, the impact of the anatomical morphology of fibular notch (FN) on HAS in different genders is still unclear. This study aimed to explore the impact of different types of FN on the severity of HAS and to estimate the prognosis of patients with HAS while excluding anatomical differences caused by gender. Methods One hundred and eighty patients with HAS were included in this study as the experimental group (i.e., HAS group). They were further divided into four groups according to gender and FN depth, with deep concave FN ≥ 4 mm and shallow flat FN

Abstract Background Syndesmosis injury is proposed to contribute to ankle stability and osteoarthritis (OA). However, whether distal tibiofibular syndesmosis structure is closely related to ankle OA is unclear. We hypothesized that different DTS morphology classifications would affect the biomechanics properties in ankle OA. The study aimed to determine the association between the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis (DTS) morphological classification and ankle OA. Methods This is a retrospective study examining imaging data of 147 patients (87 males and 60 females) with ankle OA. Magnetic resonance imaging was used to access the DTS morphological classification, according to measuring various parameters. Joint space narrowing and osteophytes were measured using ankle weight-bearing radiography. The classification and parameters were analyzed to determine the relationship between the syndesmosis classification and the abnormality of ankle OA. Results Five morphological classifications of the DTS, including Chevron (19.6%), Widow’s peak (16.2%), Flat (22.3%), Trapezoid (32.0%), and Crescent (19.6%), were shown. There were statistical differences between DTS classification and tibial angle surface angle (TAS) (P = .009) and talar tilt angle (TTA) (P = .014). The TAS (degree) of the Crescent (86.47 ± 3.21) was less than Chevron (88.75 ± 2.72) (P = .006), Widow’s peak (89.26 ± 3.15) (P = .001), Flat (88.83 ± 3.62) (P = .003) and Trapezoid (88.11 ± 2.62) (P = .041), respectively. The TTA (degree) of Crescent (86.83 ± 5.30) was less than Chevron (89.28 ± 2.46) and Widow’s peak (89.82 ± 3.41). The men were greater than women for TAS (P = .008) and angle (P = .003), which are consistent with osteophyte (P = .019) and the modified Kellgren–Lawrence grades (P = .041) between gender. Conclusions DTS morphological classification might affect the biomechanics properties in TAS and TTA in ankle OA. In clinical practice, surgeons should pay attention to the effects of DTS on ankle OA. Level of Evidence: Level III, retrospective study.

Background: Syndesmosis injury is proposed to contribute to ankle stability and osteoarthritis (OA). However, whether distal tibiofibular syndesmosis structure is closely related to ankle OA is unclear. We hypothesized that different DTS morphology classifications would affect the biomechanics properties in ankle OA. The study aimed to determine the association between the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis (DTS) morphological classification and ankle OA. Methods: This is a retrospective study examining imaging data of 147 patients (87 males and 60 females) with ankle OA. Magnetic resonance imaging was used to access the DTS morphological classification, according to measuring various parameters. Joint space narrowing and osteophytes were measured using ankle weight-bearing radiography. The classification and parameters were analyzed to determine the relationship between the syndesmosis classification and the abnormality of ankle OA. Results: Five morphological classifications of the DTS, including Chevron (19.6%), Widow's peak (16.2%), Flat (22.3%), Trapezoid (32.0%), and Crescent (19.6%), were shown. There were statistical differences between DTS classification and tibial angle surface angle (TAS) (P =.009) and talar tilt angle (TTA) (P =.014). The TAS (degree) of the Crescent (86.47 ± 3.21) was less than Chevron (88.75 ± 2.72) (P =.006), Widow's peak (89.26 ± 3.15) (P =.001), Flat (88.83 ± 3.62) (P =.003) and Trapezoid (88.11 ± 2.62) (P =.041), respectively. The TTA (degree) of Crescent (86.83 ± 5.30) was less than Chevron (89.28 ± 2.46) and Widow's peak (89.82 ± 3.41). The men were greater than women for TAS (P =.008) and angle (P =.003), which are consistent with osteophyte (P =.019) and the modified Kellgren–Lawrence grades (P =.041) between gender. Conclusions: DTS morphological classification might affect the biomechanics properties in TAS and TTA in ankle OA. In clinical practice, surgeons should pay attention to the effects of DTS on ankle OA. Level of Evidence: Level III, retrospective study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The role of the distal tibiofibular ligament in the occurrence of high ankle sprain (HAS) has been widely studied. But previous studies have overlooked the physiological and anatomical differences between males and females and have not further refined gender. Therefore, the impact of the anatomical morphology of fibular notch (FN) on HAS in different genders is still unclear. This study aimed to explore the impact of different types of FN on the severity of HAS and to estimate the prognosis of patients with HAS while excluding anatomical differences caused by gender. Methods: One hundred and eighty patients with HAS were included in this study as the experimental group (i.e., HAS group). They were further divided into four groups according to gender and FN depth, with deep concave FN ≥ 4 mm and shallow flat FN < 4 mm. Another 180 normal individuals were set as the control group. The FN morphological indicators, tibiofibular distance (TFD), and ankle mortise indexes were measured and compared with those in HAS group. The independent t‐test was used to compare continuous variables between groups, the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to analyze the reliability of intra‐observer measurement, and the Pearson correlation coefficient was used to verify the correlation between FN and the severity of HAS. Results: In males with shallow flat type, the measurements of anterior tibiofibular distance (aTFD), middle tibiofibular distance (mTFD), posterior tibiofibular distance (pTFD), front ankle mortise width (fAMW), middle ankle mortise width (mAMW), posterior ankle mortise width (pAMW), and depth of ankle mortise (DOAM) in HAS group were significantly larger than those in normal group (p < 0.05). In male patients with deep concave type, the measurements of aTFD, mTFD, fAMW, mAMW, and DOAM were significantly larger than those in normal group (p < 0.05). Among female patients with shallow flat type, the measurements of aTFD, mTFD, pTFD, fAMW, mAMW, pAMW, and DOAM were found to be significantly larger than those in normal group (p < 0.05). Among female patients with deep concave type, the measurements of mTFD, pTFD, fAMW, mAMW, and DOAM were found to be significantly larger than those of the normal group (p < 0.05). The depth of FN was negatively correlated with TFD, and the AOFAS score of patients with shallow flat type was significantly lower than that of patients with deep concave type after treatment (p < 0.05). Conclusions: In different gender groups, compared with the normal controls, the TFD and partial ankle mortise indices were significantly different in HAS patients. Moreover, FN depth was negatively correlated with TFD, and the AOFAS score of shallow flat patients was significantly lower than that of deep concave patients. These suggested that shallow flat FN may be associated with more severe distal tibiofibular ligament injury and ankle mortise widening, leading to poorer prognosis. This should be taken seriously in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forced external rotation is hypothesized as the key mechanism of syndesmotic ankle injuries, inducing a three‐dimensional deviation from the normal distal tibiofibular joint (DTFJ) alignment. However, current diagnostic imaging modalities are impeded by a two‐dimensional assessment, without considering ligamentous stabilizers. Therefore, our aim is threefold: (1) to construct an articulated statistical shape model of the normal DTFJ with the inclusion of ligamentous morphometry, (2) to investigate the effect of weight‐bearing on the DTFJ alignment, and (3) to detect differences in predicted syndesmotic ligament length of patients with syndesmotic lesions with respect to normative data. Training data comprised non‐weight‐bearing CT scans from asymptomatic controls (N = 76), weight‐bearing CT scans from patients with syndesmotic ankle injury (N = 13), and their weight‐bearing healthy contralateral side (N = 13). Path and length of the syndesmotic ligaments were predicted using a discrete element model, wrapped around bony contours. Statistical shape model evaluation was based on accuracy, generalization, and compactness. The predicted ligament length in patients with syndesmotic lesions was compared with healthy controls. With respect to the first aim, our presented skeletal shape model described the training data with an accuracy of 0.23 ± 0.028 mm. Mean prediction accuracy of ligament insertions was 0.53 ± 0.12 mm. In accordance with the second aim, our results showed an increased tibiofibular diastasis in healthy ankles after weight‐bearing. Concerning our third aim, a statistically significant difference in anterior syndesmotic ligament length was found between ankles with syndesmotic lesions and healthy controls (p = 0.017). There was a significant correlation between the presence of syndesmotic injury and the positional alignment between the distal tibia and fibula (r = 0.873, p < 0,001). Clinical Significance: Statistical shape modeling combined with patient‐specific ligament wrapping techniques can facilitate the diagnostic workup of syndesmosic ankle lesions under weight‐bearing conditions. In doing so, an increased anterior tibiofibular distance was detected, corresponding to an "anterior open‐book injury" of the ankle syndesmosis as a result of anterior inferior tibiofibular ligament elongation/rupture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A syndesmosis is a fibrous joint with two adjacent bones connected by a strong membrane or ligaments. Despite an incidence rate of only 2.09 per 100,000 person-years, this problems can be extremely time consuming for affected patients, and often lead to significant morbidity and degenerative ankle disease mainly with imporper management. Isolated syndesmotic injury occurs when there is a disruption of the distal tibiofibular articulation without an associated fracture. This is an entirely different population than the syndesmosis injury which occurs in the presence of a fracture; further, these patients remain poorly studied. The rate of isolated syndesmotic injury occurence with ankle sprains has been reported to be up to 20% of the athletic population. Stable syndesmotic injuries are best treated conservatively with a short term activity modification, proprioceptive and functional rehabilitation program and interim brace wear, unstable injuries usually require surgical stabilization. Therefore, the aim of this study to review methods of Distal Tibiofibular Syndesmosis Injury treatment using Suture-Button versus Syndesmotic Screw. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Adequate reduction and stabilization of the syndesmosis are significant to prevent early degeneration of the ankle joint and get better clinical outcomes. However, the routine surgical methods have diffierent limitations. The purpose of this study was to develop a novel double Endobutton fixation to treat the distal tibiofibular syndesmotic injuries, and determine whether the novel double Endobutton fixation demonstrates a better biomechanical property compare with the intact syndesmosis, the screw fixation and the Tightrope fixation.Methods: Twenty-four normal fresh-frozen ankle specimens with a mean age of 42 ± 8 (range, 28-62) years were randomly divided equally into four groups: (1) the intact group, (2) the screw group, (3) the Tightrope group, (4) the Endobutton group. 3D printer technology was used to establish the personalized distal tibiofibular syndesmotic navigation modules to determine the accurate bone tunnel. Axial loading was applied in five ankle positions: neutral position, dorsiflexion, plantar flexion, varus and valgus. Rotation torque was applied in two ankle rotation of the neutral position: internal and external.Results: In most situations, the displacements of the intact group were larger than the screw group, the Tightrope group and the Endobutton group (P < .05), and the displacements of the screw group were smaller than other three groups (P < .05). The displacements of the double Endobutton group were slightly larger than the Tightrope group but no significant differences were found between these two groups except in the dorsiflexion position of axial loading experiments (P < .05). The novel double Endobutton fixation was steadier than intact syndesmosis and more micromotional than screw fixation.Conclusion: Our study demonstrated that the novel double Endobutton can be considered as the better fixation in treatment of distal tibiofibular syndesmotic injuries.Level Of Evidence: Level III, retrospective comparative study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. There has been historical debate as to whether the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis can be overtightened during operative fixation. We used finite-element analysis to determine if overtightening of syndesmotic screws can cause widening of the lateral gutter clear space in the ankle joint. Methods. A 3D finite-element model was constructed and analyzed using geometries from a computed tomography scan of a cadaveric lower leg. Starting 2 cm from the plafond, screw fixation was simulated at 5-mm increments to a distance of 5 cm from the plafond. The fibula was compressed 2 mm toward the tibia at each interval, and the change in distance between the lateral talus and distal fibula was measured. Results. Medial deflection of the fibula resulted in widening of the lateral clear space, which was proportional to the amount of deflection. The effect increased as screws were placed closer to the plafond, with 1.5 mm of widening at 2 cm (0.76 mm/mm) versus 0.7 mm at 5 cm (0.34 mm/mm). Conclusion. Our finite-element model demonstrated that overtightening of the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis with medial fibular displacement can cause widening of the lateral clear space. Clinical relevance. The results suggest that screws placed farther from the plafond widen the lateral clear space to a lesser degree, which may be advantageous during surgical fixation to prevent clear space widening and increased tibiotalar contact forces.Levels of Evidence: Level I. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A Maisonneuve’s Fracture is a fracture of proximal third fibula associated with a disruption of the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis, the interosseous membrane and associated injuries (eg, fracture of the medial malleolus, fracture of the posterior malleolus, and rupture of the deltoid ligament). The mechanism for the fracture is an external rotation force to the ankle with transmission of the force through the interosseous membrane which causes a proximal fibular fracture.In a very rare form, we can found an unusual pattern of the level of the involved fibula, such as middle third of fibula. A 19 year old male presented to us with pain and swelling of his left ankle after felt while playing futsal. Physical examination showed deformity, swelling and tenderness on his left ankle. Range of motion was decreased. On imaging, plain radiographs of left ankle showed dislocation of the ankle, with disruption of syndesmotic and fracture comminutive middle third of fibula. We performed operation which are consists of three procedures; closed reduction, percutaneous fixation of syndesmotic by using a single transfixing screw, and plate-screw for the fibula. Normal range of motion is achieved well after 8 weeks, without pain on full weightbearing. The pattern of the fracture-dislocation of the ankle discussed is very rare. The mechanism of the injury is a twisting motion of the upperbody inward, while the foot is planted, resulting a more higher energy impacted to the ankle and fibula. We performed closed reduction easily by reverse the mechanism of injury. Keywords: Maisonneuve’s Fracture, distal tibiofibular syndesmosis, interosseous membrane, rupture of the deltoid ligament

Abstract Background To improve the diagnostic accuracy of distal tibiofibular syndesmoses (DTS), this study quantified the range in variations of the normal DTS in a Chinese population, based on CT scan images. Methods The study population comprised 92 patients with unilateral ankle injury. CT scans included the non-injured contralateral DTS. The position of the fibula relative to the fibular notch (incisure) of the tibia was quantified by inclusion or separation indices, based on whether the fibula was within or outside the fibular incisure, respectively. The patients were apportioned accordingly to either a DTS contained- or separate-type group (average ages 45 and 42.1 years, respectively; 19 men/26 women and 24 men/23 women). Further variations in the position of the fibula relative to the tibia were quantified with length, anterior, and posterior indices. Results The baseline characteristics of the contained- and separate-type groups were statistically comparable. The length, anterior, extra-anterior, posterior, and extra-posterior indices were successfully calculated. The anterior index of the contained group was significantly greater than that of the separated group, while the posterior index was significantly less. Conclusions This study provides measurements of the normal tibiofibular syndesmosis in a Chinese population. In individuals whose fibula lay within the fibular incisure of the tibia, the fibula was likely to be more anterior than that of individuals whose fibula lay outside the incisure. Offered as a reference, these data should improve diagnosis of injury of the DTS.

Introduction: ligamentous injuries of the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis resulting in its opening are common occurrences in traumatology; however, their diagnosis poses a challenge for orthopedic surgeons. The tibioastragaloid mortise radiograph view is the most commonly used method for diagnosing this type of injury, but its reliability is compromised due to variations in ankle positioning during the study, which often depend on the operator., Objective: to demonstrate that the designed device achieves a correct and consistent radiographic image of the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis in the mortise view., Material and Methods: we present a prospective, longitudinal, observational study. We designed a polypropylene device that maintains the ankle at 90 degrees of dorsiflexion and 15 degrees of internal rotation. The device was used to take mortise view radiographs of healthy ankles, and corresponding measurements were taken to assess the syndesmosis., Results: we evaluated a total of 46 radiographs of healthy ankles, with a predominance of left ankles. The obtained measurements were as follows: anterior tibiofibular distance (ATFD) ranged from 3 to 6 mm, posterior tibiofibular distance (PTFD) ranged from 1 to 3 mm, tibiofibular clear space (TFCS) ranged from 2 to 3 mm, and a Merle D'Aubigne ratio of 2:1 was observed in all ankles. When comparing the measurements obtained with those established by Harper and Keller, no statistically significant difference was found (2 < 5)., Conclusion: with the use of the designed device, we achieved a correct and consistent radiographic image of the mortise and the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis.

BACKGROUND: In the clinical treatment of distal tibiofibular syndesmosis injury, Suture-Button fixation technique can achieve similar results to, even better results than, those of screws, but it cannot fully recover the anatomical reduction and activity to those before injury. However, the optimal treatment of distal tibiofibular syndesmosis injury is still controversial. OBJECTIVE: To systematically evaluate Suture-Button fixation and screw fixation for the treatment of distal tibiofibular syndesmosis injury. METHODS: EMBASE, Cochrane database, PubMed database, Wanfang database, and CNKI were searched to retrieve randomized or non-randomized controlled trials regarding Suture-Button fixation and screw fixation for the treatment of distal tibiofibular syndesmosis injury published from January 2005 to January 2019. The quality of the included studies was strictly evaluated. Relevant data were extracted. A meta-analysis of all outcome measures was performed using RevMan 5.3 software. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) Twelve studies were included, including 4 randomized controlled trials and 8 cohort studies, involving 564 patients. (2) Meta-analysis results showed that Suture-Button fixation had shorter full weight-bearing time [WMD=-1.50, 95%CI(-2.08, -0.92), P < 0.05] than screw fixation method. Suture-Button fixation resulted in better AOFAS scores than screw fixation at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months after surgery [WMD=6.50. 95%CI(3.41, 9.58), P < 0.05; WMD=2.87, 95%CI(O. 75, 4.98), P < 0.05; WMD=2.67, 95%CI(0.09, 5.24), P < 0.05; WMD=5. 79, 95%CI(1.41, 10.18), P < 0.05]. There were no significant differences in operation time, tibiofibular overlap at the last follow-up. tibiofibular clear space at the last follow-up, and the incidence of total postoperative complications alter surgery between two fixation methods (P > 0.05). (3) These findings suggest that compared with screw fixation, Suture-Button fixation for the treatment of distal tibiofibular syndesmosis injury leads to better recovery of ankle joint function and an earlier time point for full weight bearing and does not need to consider the risk of screw fracture during the surgery. In addition to screw fixation, Suture-Button fixation is an effective way to treat distal tibiofibular syndesmosis injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The distal tibiofibular joint is a fibrous joint that plays a crucial role in the stability of the ankle joint. It is stabilized by three main ligaments: the anterior inferior tibiofibular ligament, the posterior inferior tibiofibular ligament, and the interosseous tibiofibular ligament, which are well delineated on magnetic resonance imaging. Pathology of the distal tibiofibular joint is mostly related to trauma and the longer-term complications of trauma, such as soft tissue impingement, heterotopic ossification, and synostosis. This review article outlines the MRI anatomy and pathology of this joint. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Aim: To study the anatomy of the posterior inferior tibiof i bular ligament (PITFL) and specify the features of its morphology and linear parameters., Patients and Methods: Materials and Methods: The peculiarities of morphology and linear parameters of PITFL on 10 fresh amputated lower limbs were studied. The average age of the patients was 64.7 ± 9.3 (7 males, 3 females). Macroscopic characteristics, insertion, orientation in relation to the corresponding bony and ligamentous anatomical structures were studied, and linear parameters of PITFL were measured using a caliper. Average values were calculated., Results: Results: PITFL was detected in all the studied samples. It represented a strong, compact anatomical structure of a trapezoidal or triangular shape. The proximal width of the PITFL averaged 20 ± 3.65 mm, while the distal width was 36.6 ± 4.62 mm. The attachment length of PITFL to the posterior part of the tibia was 28.6 ± 5.13 mm and to the fi bula was 17.4 ± 3.2 mm. The ligament is closely connected to the posterior intermalleolar ligament, the inferior transverse ligament, and the tendinous sheaths of the posterior tibial and fi bular muscles., Conclusion: Conclusions: The obtained results of the study of linear and morphological parameters of PITFL should contribute to a better understanding of the anatomy of the posterior part of the ankle joint and improve surgical approaches to the treatment of posterior malleolus fractures and related PITFL injuries.

Purpose: This systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to investigate the outcomes of syndesmotic screw fixation versus suture button fixation in the treatment of distal tibiofibular syndesmosis injury from the current literature.Methods: The electronic literature database of PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane library were searched in August 2018. The data on medial clear space, tibiofibular clear space, tibiofibular overlap, American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scores and complications (including wound infection, local irritation or discomfort, screw loosening and screw breakage) were extracted. Stata 14.0 software was used for our meta-analysis.Results: A total of 11 studies including 5 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and 6 cohort studies met our inclusion criteria. This meta-analysis showed that there was no significant difference between the two groups regarding medial clear space (P = 0.54), tibiofibular clear space (P = 0.23) and tibiofibular overlap (P = 0.88) postoperatively. However, the present meta-analysis demonstrated that the suture button fixation group had significantly higher AOFAS scores than the syndesmotic screw fixation group at 3rd, 6th, 12th and 24th months postoperatively (P = 0.001, P = 0.006, P = 0.000 and P = 0.049 respectively). Besides, the time to full weight bearing in the suture button fixation group was significantly earlier than that in the syndesmotic screw fixation group (P = 0.000). As for the complications, the suture button fixation group had a lower rate of post-operative complication (screw loosening and screw breakage) compared with the syndesmotic screw fixation group (P = 0.048 and P = 0.000 respectively).Conclusion: Our meta-analysis suggested that suture button fixation could achieve significant higher AOFAS scores with a lower rate of postoperative complications and earlier time to full weight bearing in distal tibiofibular syndesmosis injury. More RCTs are required for further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Various methods using CT scan have been described to diagnose distal tibiofibular syndesmotic injuries. However, CT scan does not take into account the amount of cartilage within the distal tibiofibular joint and could therefore lead to false positive results. We present the first study correlating the findings of the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis on CT and MRI scans. Methods CT and MRI scan of consecutive patients over a period of 18 months, and of a time lapsed less than 12 months between the two imaging modalities, were reviewed. Measurements of the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis were taken according to a previously published study at the level of the distal tibial physeal scar. Results Twenty-six ankles from 25 patients were included in this study for analysis. Significant difference between CT and MRI assessments in the overall distal tibiofibular dimensions and in the posterior distal tibiofibular distance for those ankles with evidence of osteoarthritis was found. Interclass correlation coefficients suggest that such methodology was reproducible and reliable. Conclusion When the widening found on a CT scan is minor or the diagnosis is equivocal, a contralateral comparative CT or an ipsilateral MRI scan is recommended to prevent misdiagnosis. Level of evidence Level IV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Lower leg fractures of the tibia with or without fracture of the fibula are very common. Proximal tibiofibular joint (PTFJ) dislocation is a very rare injury that can occur together with a tibia shaft fracture. As there is only scarce literature about this injury available, we would like to present our experience with the treatment of this entity.Methods: We present a small case series of seven patients. In most cases, the tibia fracture was nailed in a closed technique. After distal locking the proximal fibula was exposed by a lateral approach exposing and preserving the peroneal nerve. After anatomical reduction into the corresponding articular facet of the proximal tibia, the fibula was transfixed to the tibia with a positioning screw. This indirectly provided a correct length and rotation of the tibia, which could finally be locked to the nail by inserting the proximal locking bolts. The positioning screw was removed after six weeks prior to full loading. Six of seven patients had been followed up by at least 7 months post-treatment.Results: Out of 663 prospectively collected tibia shaft fractures treated at our institution from 1/2001 to 7/2014, we found seven patients with associated PTFJ dislocation. All except one had been caused by a high energy trauma. After one year, five patients showed excellent results with full range of motion and returning to their sporting activities as before the accident. Two patients have impaired function due to associated injuries. None complained of persistent pain or instability of the PTFJ.Conclusion: PTFJ dislocation with tibia shaft fracture can easily be overlooked if one is not familiar with this injury. It is important to diagnose and treat this uncommon dislocation anatomically to achieve good results. Otherwise, as the literature shows, it can lead to chronic instability of the proximal fibula with snapping, proximal fibular pain and even peroneal nerve palsy. Furthermore in complex tibial fractures correct length and rotation only can be restored after referencing with the fibula. We recommend a high index of suspicion of this injury with high energy tibia shaft fractures especially in cases with intact fibula. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Though injuries to the distal tibiofibular (DTF) syndesmosis are commonly encountered in orthopedic and trauma settings, its anatomical structures have been poorly researched. The commonly overlooked DTF ligament injuries are known to cause chronic ankle pain, instability and post-traumatic osteoarthritis. Quantitative and morphological evidence synthesis has not been yet conducted. A meta-analysis was conducted to collect data from morphological studies to document more accurate details on the prevalence, size, and insertion sites of its components. The Checklist for Anatomical Reviews and Meta-Analyses (CARMA) was followed. Ten studies met the inclusion criteria with a total of 265 investigated ankles. The analysis demonstrated that the anterior and posterior tibiofibular ligaments along with the interosseous ligament were present in 100% of joints. The inferior transverse tibiofibular and the distal fascicle of the anterior tibiofibular ligament were the least prevalent with frequencies of 96% and 86.5%, respectively. The inferior transverse ligament was recorded as the longest ligament. The widest ligament was found to be the interosseous tibiofibular ligament at its fibular attachment. The thickest of the ligamentous components was the posterior tibiofibular ligament. While more cadaveric research is warranted, these results would help directing future biomechanical investigations and planning new research to further aid in diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to the injuries of the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To compare the short-term effectiveness of repairing distal tibiofibular syndesmosis with metal screws and absorbable screws., Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed on the clinical data of 63 patients with ankle fracture combined with injury of the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis admitted between January 2017 and January 2020. Among them, 31 patients were treated with absorbable screw fixation of the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis (research group) and 32 patients were treated with metal screw fixation of the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis (control group). There was no significant difference in gender, age, cause of injury, surgical side, time from injury to operation, fracture type, preoperative visual analogue scale (VAS) score, and American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) score between the two groups ( P >0.05). The operation time and fracture healing time were recorded and compared between the two groups. X-ray film was taken to evaluate the effect of ankle joint reduction and fixation. Olerud-Molander ankle fracture efficacy score (short for OM score), AOFAS score, and VAS score were used to evaluate the effectiveness., Results: There was no significant difference in operation time between the two groups ( t =-0.683, P =0.497). In the control group, 1 case of delayed healing and 1 case of poor healing occurred in the lateral incision after operation, which healed after dressing change; the rest of the patients had primary healing of the incision. Patients in both groups were followed up 12-24 months, with an average of 13.8 months. In the control group, 1 patient with fracture of pronation and external rotation walked with full weight bearing after removing the metal screw of the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis at 8 weeks after operation, the anatomical plate of the lateral malleolus was broken, and the lateral malleolus was fixed again and recovered after 5 months; 1 patient had mild ankle pain after operation, and the pain disappeared after removing the metal screw of the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis at 8 weeks. No complication such as nerve and blood vessel injury occurred in all patients. There was no significant difference in fracture healing time between the two groups ( t =-1.128, P= 0.264). The AOFAS and VAS scores significantly improved in both groups at 12 months after operation ( P <0.05). There was no significant difference between the two groups in the OM scores, and the difference of AOFAS and VAS scores between before and after operation ( P >0.05)., Conclusion: Using absorbable screws to repair the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis can effectively restore the ankle acupoint structure, prevent ankle instability, and restore good ankle function. There is no significant difference in effectiveness between absorbable screws and metal screws, and there is no need for secondary operation to remove screws.