Kinematics of the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis (original) (raw)

The anatomy and mechanisms of syndesmotic ankle sprains

Journal of athletic training

To present a comprehensive review of the anatomy, biomechanics, and mechanisms of tibiofibular syndesmosis ankle sprains. MEDLINE (1966-1998) and CINAHL (1982-1998) searches using the key words syndesmosis, tibiofibular, ankle injuries, and ankle injuries-etiology. Stability of the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis is necessary for proper functioning of the ankle and lower extremity. Much of the ankle's stability is provided by the mortise formed around the talus by the tibia and fibula. The anterior and posterior inferior tibiofibular ligaments, the interosseous ligament, and the interosseous membrane act to statically stabilize the joint. During dorsiflexion, the wider portion anteriorly more completely fills the mortise, and contact between the articular surfaces is maximal. The distal structures of the lower leg primarily prevent lateral displacement of the fibula and talus and maintain a stable mortise. A variety of mechanisms individually or combined can cause syndesmosis in...

Ankle syndesmosis: a qualitative and quantitative anatomic analysis

The American journal of sports medicine, 2015

Syndesmosis sprains can contribute to chronic pain and instability, which are often indications for surgical intervention. The literature lacks sufficient objective data detailing the complex anatomy and localized osseous landmarks essential for current surgical techniques. To qualitatively and quantitatively analyze the anatomy of the 3 syndesmotic ligaments with respect to surgically identifiable bony landmarks. Descriptive laboratory study. Sixteen ankle specimens were dissected to identify the anterior inferior tibiofibular ligament (AITFL), posterior inferior tibiofibular ligament (PITFL), interosseous tibiofibular ligament (ITFL), and bony anatomy. Ligament lengths, footprints, and orientations were measured in reference to bony landmarks by use of an anatomically based coordinate system and a 3-dimensional coordinate measuring device. The syndesmotic ligaments were identified in all specimens. The pyramidal-shaped ITFL was the broadest, originating from the distal interosseou...