- Research Article
- 10.1097/btf.0000000000000464
Minimally Invasive Lateral Complex Ankle Reconstruction for Chronic Ankle Instability: Surgical Technique
- Feb 09, 2026
- Techniques in Foot & Ankle Surgery
- Antonio Reitano + 5 more +5
Chronic ankle instability often results from lateral ankle sprains, primarily affecting the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) and calcaneofibular ligament (CFL). When conservative treatments fail, surgical options include anatomic repair and reconstruction. The Broström-Gould and Karlsson techniques aim to restore native ligament structures, while reconstruction is necessary for irreparable cases. Both arthroscopic and percutaneous approaches have been explored. We present a promising minimally invasive nonanatomic reconstruction technique for the ATFL and CFL, offering a viable alternative for managing chronic ankle instability. Only one graft rupture was reported, ∼10 months postoperatively, following a traumatic event. No other intraoperative or postoperative complications were observed. This nonanatomic minimally invasive technique represents a reliable and promising approach for the reconstruction of chronic lateral ankle instability. Levels of Evidence: Diagnostic Level V. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
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