[Clinical and functional results of the Broström-Gould technique for lateral ankle instability: evaluation with three scales].

BACKGROUND: The most frequent sequel to the ankle sprain is the instability of the lateral ligament complex; the results of surgical treatment have not been evaluated with multiple scales simultaneously. The objective of the study was to assess the clinical and functional results with three scales in patients with lateral instability of ankle undergoing Broström-Gould technique, using for fixation, anchors with suture to distal fibula.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: The design of the study was cross-sectional and descriptive; we included patients with lateral instability of ankle and partial or complete rupture of the APA or CP ligament subject to repair with Broström-Gould technique. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed to confirm the diagnosis; clinical and functional outcomes were determined with three scales: EVA, SF-36 and AOFAS. Patients were evaluated at six months, or more, after the surgical procedure.

RESULTS: We included 13 patients; quality of life (SF-36 questionnaire) showed a good result with average score of 90; 10 (77%) patients showed excellent results in function, absence of pain and alignment of the ankle (AOFAS 90-100). Also found significant improvement in pain (presurgical EVA: 6, compared with 1 in the postoperative period).

CONCLUSIONS: The surgical procedure showed excellent results, in the short term with resolution of pain and ankle stability.