How is syndesmosis injury diagnosed?

Clinical diagnosis The diagnosis of syndesmosis injury is based on injury pattern, thorough physical examination, and radiographic findings. When no fracture is present, clinical findings will include ankle pain, tenderness directly over the anterior syndesmosis, and positive squeeze and external rotation tests.

How do you assess syndesmotic injury?

In the case of an unstable joint requiring syndesmotic stabilisation, the tibiofibular clear space would exceed 5 mm on the lateral stress test. When the surgeon is able to perform an ankle arthroscopy this technique is useful to detect syndesmotic injury and can guide anatomic reduction of the syndesmosis.

What is a syndesmosis rupture?

Abstract. Syndesmosis injuries occur when there is a disruption of the distal attachment of the tibia and fibula. These injuries occur commonly (up to 18% of ankle sprains), and the incidence increases in the setting of athletic activity. Recognition of these injuries is key to preventing long-term morbidity.

What is the syndesmosis test?

Squeeze Test Identifies a fibular fracture or syndesmosis sprain. Performed by squeezing the tibia and fibula together above the injury. (+) test: Pain will be reproduced along the fibular shaft if it’s a fibular fracture and the distal tibiofibular jt for syndesmosis sprain.

Where is the syndesmosis located?

A syndesmosis joint is a fibrous joint where two bones are connected by strong ligaments or membrane.

How long does syndesmosis take to heal?

How long does syndesmosis take to heal? Syndesmosis injuries generally involve a period of immobilisation for 4-6 weeks depending on severity. (Yes that means a moon boot!) Following this we allow a further 6-12 weeks for a full recovery.

Does syndesmosis need 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.

Can you recover from syndesmosis?

Evidence suggests that syndesmosis sprains typically require 6 to 8 weeks for recovery, but this is variable. Chronic pain, instability, and functional limitations are common after syndesmosis sprains.