Abstract
[Objective] We report a case of open rupture of lateral collateral ligament of the ankle joint. [Case] A 13-year-old girl sustained an open deformity of the right ankle when she fell down from some steps and sprained her right ankle. She had no previous episode of sprain in her right ankle. She had two open injuries and her right ankle showed varus deformity. Radiological examination revealed medial malleolus hypoplasia and subcutaneous emphysema. At surgery, the anterior tibiotalar joint capsule and anterior talofibular ligament were found to be ruptured. The calcaneofibular ligament was detached from its associated periosteum. The articular facets of the tibia and talus were both intact. The treatment consisted of wound irrigation, debridement, reduction and suture of the capsule and ligaments followed by immobilization with a short leg cast. Three weeks after the operation, the patient started walking with partial weight-bearing and was able to walk without any aid at six weeks. At the final follow-up, she had achieved good functional and radiographic results. [Conclusions] Capsular suturing and ligament repair can achieve a good functional outcome with a short immobilization time, even in cases of medial malleolar hypoplasia.
