[Diagnosis, treatment and results of surgically treated fresh exterior ligament ruptures of the upper ankle joint].

Among 355 recent ruptures of the fibular ligaments which had been operated in seven years - by altogether 3413 traumas of supination and of distorsion - 271 patients have had a follow-up examination. A reduction of the mobility was found in 9% of the cases, a clinically demonstrable opening of the ankle was found in 11% of the cases. 11% of the cases specified complaint by burden. 95% of the operated patients attended sporting activities. The opening of the ankle was the same as against the other side in 79% of the cases - proved by radiological examination; there was a slight increased opening of the ankle compared with the non-operated ankle in 15% of the cases, an increased opening of the ankle was found in 6% of the cases. Subjective complaint and clinical and radiological findings were taken into consideration of the opinion of the results. We found good up to very good results in about 90% of the cases. The treatment of the recent rupture of the fibular ligaments only can consist in a combined suture including a following cast - in agreement with other authors; nevertheless an isolated rupture of the anterior fibulotalar ligament does not compel to operate all cases.