The Effects of Lateral Ligaments Augmentation Using Suture-tape on Functional Ankle Instability

CATEGORY: Sports INTRODUCTION/PURPOSE: Although lateral ligaments augmentation using suture-tape has been effective for restoration of mechanical ankle stability, few data are available regarding changes of peroneal strength, proprioception and postural control. The aim of this study was to determine effects of suture-tape augmentation on functional ankle instability (FAI). METHODS: Twenty-four patients that underwent suture-tape augmentation were eligible and were followed more than two years postoperatively. Functional outcomes were evaluated with the Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool (CAIT), Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM). Changes of peroneal strength, proprioception and postural control were analyzed with an isokinetic dynamometer and a modified Romberg test. RESULTS: CAIT and FAAM significantly improved to average 27.2 points, 86.7 points at final followup. Peak torque for eversion in 60º/sec angular velocity significantly improved to 10.6 Nm at final followup. Deficit ratio of peak torque for eversion significantly improved from mean 39.5% to 20.9%, and significant side to side difference was revealed (P < .001). There were no significant differences in joint position sense. A significant improvement in balance retention time was revealed at final followup and relative deficit ratio compared to unaffected side was 30.9%. CONCLUSION: Patient-reported functional outcomes significantly improved after lateral ligaments augmentation using suture-tape. Although this procedure demonstrated significant effects on FAI based on improvement of isokinetic peroneal strength and postural control, recovery rates compared to the unaffected side were insufficient at the intermediate-term followup. In addition, there was no significantly positive effect on proprioception of the ankle.