Evaluating the Incidence of Co-Existing Injuries in Anterior Talofibular Ligament Injuries a Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study

Co-Existing Injuries in Anterior Talofibular Ligament

Abstract

Ankle lateral ligament injuries are common in everyday life as well as in athletic activities. Ankle injuries most commonly affect the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL). Due to ATFL's susceptibility, achieving intelligent localization and injury evaluation is extremely important from a clinical standpoint. Objectives: To evaluate the incidence and patterns of co-existing injuries in ATFL damage using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Methods: In this cross-sectional study, fifty-five patients undergoing surgical management for ATFL injuries were included. Preoperative MRIs of affected ankles were analyzed to document ATFL integrity and associated injuries. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize findings, with categorical variables reported as frequencies and percentages and continuous variables as means ± SD. Results: The mean age of the patients was 36.8 ± 12.4 years, with 61.8% male and 38.2% female. Associated injuries were observed in 72.7% of patients. ATFL injuries included 30.9% low-grade incomplete, 21.8% high-grade incomplete, and 14.5% complete tears. calcaneofibular ligament (CFL) injuries were common, with 36.4% showing partial tears, and 3.6% complete tears. The deep deltoid ligament was intact in 56.4%, while 43.6% had injuries. The superficial deltoid ligament was intact in 70.9%. The peroneal tendon was intact in 83.6%, with 5.5% having injuries and 10.9% showing tendinosis. Osteochondral Defects (OCDs) were present in 21.8% of cases. Conclusions: It was concluded that ATFL injuries frequently occur with damage to other structures, particularly the CFL and deltoid ligaments. MRI facilitates accurate diagnosis, emphasizing the need for comprehensive assessment and concurrent management of associated injuries during ATFL repair.