Does a torn ATFL and CFL require surgery?
Table of Contents
When sprains occur, the ligaments stretch beyond normal capacity and tear. Ankle sprains range from mild to severe and in most cases do not require surgery. Sprains of the midfoot — called a Lisfranc injury — can often be treated successfully with non-surgical techniques as well.
Does a complete ATFL tear require surgery?
The concern would be that they develop chronic instability in the ankle or an anterior ankle impingement long term, which would require surgery. This can occur in patients who either present to physiotherapy late, or are non- compliant with their rehab.
Does a torn CFL require surgery?
If you have suffered a grade 3 ligament tear, you may initially be advised to try six weeks of conservative treatment before going down the surgery route. However, if this has no effect and you still have considerable pain and joint instability, surgical reconstruction of the ligament will be advised.
What does ATFL and CFL mean?
[1] The majority of ankle injuries are sports-related and involve the lateral ankle compartment. The lateral ankle ligaments consist of the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL), the calcaneofibular ligament (CFL), and the posterior talofibular ligament (PTFL).
How long does it take for an ATFL tear to heal?
A return to practice in sports may take 5-6 weeks and a return to sports may take 6-8 weeks. If this ligament injury has occurred once or twice, then conservative care usually works well to allow complete healing of the ligament injury.
Do ATFL tears heal?
Thus a bad ankle sprain results in tearing or rupture of the lateral ligaments (ATFL and CFL). These ligaments will heal but they heal with the ligaments in a stretched position. This causes the ankle joint to feel sloppy and increases the risk of the patient going over on the ankle in the future.
How do you treat an ATFL tear?
Home Treatments
- Rest your ankle by not walking on it.
- Ice should be immediately applied to keep the swelling down.
- Compression dressings, bandages or ace-wraps will immobilize and support your injured ankle.
- Elevate your ankle above the level of your heart as often as possible during the first 48 hours.
What is a complete tear of the ATFL and CFL?
Re: complete tear of ATFL and CFL. The ATFL and CFL are ligaments on the side of the ankle. If they’ve been completely ruptured then they won’t grow back and surgery is your option for repairing them. You can survive without them with just the strength of the muscles but it’s not overly advised – especially if you intend to continue with sports.
What are anterior talofibular ligament ligament (ATFL) injuries?
CFL injuries are often described in the lateral ankle compartment, specifically associated with the anterior talofibular ligaments (ATFL); however, the CFL injuries have unique characteristics which can impact long term function, such as mobility and strength.
What are the symptoms of a torn CFL ligament?
Tear of the CFL. Swelling and tenderness occur over the injured ligament, distal to the lateral malleolus. Pain is felt during weightbearing and when moving the ankle joint.
What are calcaneofibular ligament (CFL) injuries?
Isolated calcaneofibular ligament (CFL) injuries are rare. CFL injuries are often described in the lateral ankle compartment, specifically associated with the anterior talofibular ligaments (ATFL); however, the CFL injuries have unique characteristics which can impact long term function, such as mobility and strength.