Syndesmosis Surgery Without The Tightrope

The ankle is made up of the tibia and fibula bones of the lower leg, and the tarsus bone of the foot. They are held together by ligaments, which provide strength and stability during movement. The tibia and the fibula are held together by the syndesmosis joint, a special joint that allows very little motion between the bones, but provides strong stability to the ankle joint. Syndesmosis injuries, also called high-ankle sprains, are commonly seen in high-level football players and snow skiers. It is a severe type of foot and ankle sprain causing pain, swelling and weakness. In some cases the tibia and fibula may draw apart (diastasis) resulting in ankle instability. This type of injury often requires surgery to restore the stability and function of the ankle.