Ankle ligament repair at Nuffield Health at St Bartholomew's Hospital

What is ankle ligament repair surgery? 

At Nuffield Health, St Bartholomew’s Hospital, our experienced orthopaedic consultants will perform a full examination possibly utilising medical imaging, to determine the extent of your problem. 

If you have torn or over stretched the ligaments in your ankle you may suffer from chronic ankle instability. Repeated twisting or spraining can further increase instability. If conservative methods such as physiotherapy and bracing to not resolve this problem you may be a candidate for ankle ligament repair. 

What are the benefits of ankle ligament repair surgery? 

If your consultant has determined that you will benefit from hip replacement surgery then the expected main benefits will be reduced ankle pain, improved mobility and improvement of ankle function.  

Is hip replacement surgery right for me? 

Your consultant will determine if your problem requires surgery or not. Depending on the severity of the problem, some may be managed conservatively however some may require surgery. 

What happens during treatment? 

Ankle ligament repair is performed under general aesthetic. Prior to the operation you will meet one of our experienced anaesthetists. Your surgeon will make an incision (cut) on the outside of your ankle. They may perform ankle arthroscopy to determine the level of damage in the area. Stretched or torn ligaments will be shorted and stitched, or reattached as needed. Sometimes a repaired ligament is reinforced with a section of tendon. They will apply a plaster cast and you may have a drain in your wound.  

Recovery 

Our team of specialist physiotherapists will provide expert treatment, rehabilitation and advice during your hospital stay, and if appropriate follow-up as an outpatient to support your full recovery. 

Short-term recovery 

Your recovery will be guided by physiotherapists and follow up consultations with your surgeon.