What is a syndesmosis fixation?
This technique is used to stabilize an ankle after injury. It can be used to repair a high ankle sprain, which damages the soft tissue structures between the tibia and fibula and causes these bones to separate. It can also be used to stabilize a fracture of the fibula.
What does a syndesmosis screw do?
A syndesmotic screw designed to replace the inferior tibiofibular articulation that fix the tibia and fibula together at the lower joint, is 5–6 cm long and made of a stainless, solid metal. The screw may inhibit normal movement of the bones and, thereby, the corresponding joint(s).
Where do you put a Syndesmotic screw?
Fixation of the syndesmotic complex Drill a 2.5 mm hole through the fibula and the lateral cortex of the tibia, just proximal to the inferior tibiofibular joint, 30 degrees from posterior to anterior, parallel to the tibial plafond, with the ankle joint in neutral position.
Do syndesmotic screws need to be removed?
Conclusion: Removal of syndesmotic screws is advisable mainly in cases of patient complaints related to the other implanted perimalleolar hardware or malreduction of the syndesmosis after at least 8 weeks postoperatively. Broken or loose screws should not be removed routinely unless causing symptoms.
When does syndesmosis need surgery?
Grade 3. Complete rupture of the ligament. This type of injury will require surgery and recovery time will be between 3-6 months.
What happens if a Syndesmotic screw breaks?
Syndesmotic screw breakage may be more problematic than previously described. Intraosseous breakage was associated with higher rates of implant removal secondary to pain in this study. Placement of screws 20 mm or higher from the tibiotalar joint may decrease risk of intraosseous breakage.
How do you prevent ankle syndesmosis?
Recently, the most common operative method used to reduce the syndesmosis has involved placement of a pointed reduction clamp around the distal tibia and fibula to maintain reduction of the syndesmosis with fixation (9–13).
Why do Syndesmotic screws break?
The majority of retained syndesmotic screws will either loosen or break once the patient resumes weight-bearing. While evidence is limited, anecdotal experience suggests that intraosseous screw breakage may be problematic for some patients due to painful bony erosion.
How does syndesmosis heal?
Whether you need surgery or not, severe syndesmotic sprains are usually followed by physical therapy. The focus is on healing and regaining full range of motion and normal strength. Full recovery may take as long as 2 to 6 months.
Does syndesmosis require surgery?
If there is an unstable joint, surgery is typically necessary to provide stability. If the syndesmosis is found to be stable, it usually will not require surgical management. If you have other medical conditions that make surgery too risky for your health, your surgeon may recommend non-surgical treatment.