PT4: New arthroscopic technique for isolated reconstruction of the anterior talofibular ligament using a quadrupled plantaris tendon

Abstract

The strategy for surgical treatment of chronic ankle instability is becoming increasingly refined. In instances of isolated symptomatic non-repairable anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) injury, there is a surgical indication for isolated ATFL reconstruction. However, we feel that the typical gracilis tendon graft is not always appropriate. Interest in using the plantaris tendon as a graft has picked up since a biomechanics study found the tensile strength of a quadrupled plantaris tendon is comparable to that of the ATFL. Here, we describe an original arthroscopic technique for isolated ATFL reconstruction using a quadrupled plantaris tendon (PT4) graft.

Keywords: Anatomical Ligament reconstruction; Ankle; Anterior Talofibular ligament; Arthroscopy; Plantaris tendon.