Ankle lateral ligament reconstruction
A procedure to strengthen sprained ankles
A procedure to renew the supporting ankle ligaments to improve stability
What is a lateral ligament reconstruction of the ankle?
This procedure is used to strengthen sprained ankles where the ligaments have healed in a stretched position.
Need to know
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What happens during a ligament reconstruction? icon plus
The ankle is supported by strong ligaments. If the ankle is twisted, the ligaments can become stretched or torn, known as a sprained ankle.
Sometimes other injuries occur such as an osteochondral injury to the shock absorbing cartilage. The procedure is carried out under general anaesthetic, so you'll be asleep throughout.
The ankle is stressed using special X-rays to assess stability. A keyhole procedure is then performed to assess the whole ankle and if necessary a small incision is then made to the outside of the ankle to repair the stretched or torn ligaments. The ankle is then closed with stitches and a plaster cast applied below the knee. -
How to prepare icon plus
Your consultant will explain the procedure in detail with you, and answer any questions you might have. Because general anaesthetic is used during the procedure, you may need to fast for several hours before the operation.
Your consultant will tell you how long you should avoid eating and drinking. As your leg will be in a plaster cast after the operation you may require a daily injection to reduce the risk of blood clots. Like all procedures, there may be some risks and side effects involved. Your consultant will explain these to you. -
After surgery icon plus
After surgery, your foot will be in a plaster cast below the knee and you’ll wear a large, protective boot. You’ll also be walking on crutches. When you’re comfortable, you’ll be sent home with painkillers if needed.
Over the following weeks, you'll need to raise your foot as much as possible to reduce swelling. You’ll also be advised to obtain a waterproof cover to protect your cast in the shower. After two weeks you may be taken out of plaster and put into a walking boot.
To get back on your feet, you'll see a physiotherapist who will follow a carefully devised rehabilitation programme to help you recover fully.
Our orthopaedic consultants
Our locations
From complex foot and ankle surgery to straightforward orthopaedic procedures, we provide exceptional care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
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The Wellington Hospital
Wellington Place
St John's Wood
London NW8 9LE
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London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street
London
SE1 2PR
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The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road
London
SW1W 8RH
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The Princess Grace Hospital
42-52 Nottingham Place
London W1U 5NY
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Institute of Sport Exercise and Health (ISEH)
170 Tottenham Court Road
London
W1T 7HA
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London Ankle & Arthritis Centre
Platinum Medical Centre
15-17 Lodge Road, St John's Wood
London NW8 7JA
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HCA UK at The Shard
The Shard
32 St Thomas Street
London SE1 9BS
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Chelsea Outpatients
272 & 280 Kings Road
London SW3 5AW
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Platinum Medical Centre
15 - 17 Lodge Road
London
NW8 7JA
Book a foot and ankle appointment
We're happy to help you make an appointment with one of our experienced foot and ankle consultants. We can also make imaging and outpatient physiotherapy appointments for you.
Call us today
020 7079 4344