A clinical guide to the medial ligaments of the ankle: Anatomy, function, diagnosis of injuries and treatment of instability-a narrative review

Abstract

Background: The aim was to provide an update on anatomy and function of the medial ankle ligaments, diagnosis of their injuries and treatment of medial ankle instability.

Methods: Literature search on PubMed.

Results: Injuries to the deltoid ligament are not uncommon in relation to malleolar fractures and ankle sprains. Chronic instability may lead to ankle osteoarthritis. However, there is no consensus on diagnostic criteria (clinically, by imaging and by arthroscopy), on indications for non-operative and operative treatment, and on standards for repair and reconstruction of the ligament complex. There is no current evidence to support acute repair of deltoid ligament injury. Reports on the effect of isolated deltoid ligament reconstruction are very sparse.

Conclusion: There is a need for a focused effort to establish evidence for all aspects of deltoid ligament injury.

Keywords: Ankle instability; Ankle pain; Deltoid ligament injury; Injury; Medial ankle ligament anatomy; Reconstruction.