Anatomical Tenodesis Reconstruction Using Free Split Peroneal Brevis Tendon for Severe Chronic Lateral Ankle Instability

Many operative procedures have been reported for the management of chronic lateral ankle instability, and anatomical reconstructions are an excellent option. However, if the remnants of the ligaments are considerably damaged, anatomical reconstructions using such remnants can be difficult. In cases such as these, tenodesis stabilization may be required. However, tenodesis stabilization often restricts the range of ankle movement. The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of a new procedure that we developed to mitigate the problems associated with tenodesis stabilization procedures. We installed grafts in the original anatomical position by devising a system for positioning the drill holes in the bones so that our procedure did not restrict the range of ankle movement. A retrospective review of 37 patients (13 men, 24 women) with a mean age of 30.2 (range, 16–66) years was performed at an average of 69 (range, 47–77) months after the surgery. The average American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society ankle–hindfoot score improved significantly from 65.6 (range, 47–77) points preoperatively to 98.0 (range, 87–100) points postoperatively (P < 0.001). With the number of subjects available, no significant differences were detected between the postoperative mean ranges of movement of the ankle and subtalar joints and those of the preoperative ankle. Patients who underwent anatomical tenodesis reconstructions with a free split peroneal brevis tendon showed good outcomes after a 69-month follow-up period.