Foot and ankle
Lateral ankle ligament reconstruction
Restores ankle stability when an appropriate rehabilitation programme does not control recurrent giving-way episodes.
General guidance
When it may be considered
- recurrent sprains and a feeling that the ankle gives way
- persistent instability despite rehabilitation
- associated cartilage or tendon injuries
Individual decision
How suitability is determined
Assessment covers alignment, the ankle ligaments, peroneal tendons, cartilage and any impingement.
An abnormal scan alone is not an indication for surgery. The symptoms, clinical examination, progression and the patient's goals must be considered together.
Surgical plan
Decisions that tailor the procedure
- mechanical, functional or mixed instability
- whether the ligament quality permits direct repair
- cavovarus alignment, the peroneal tendons and the Achilles tendon
- osteochondral lesions or impingement requiring arthroscopy
Alternatives
What is discussed before surgery
Initial treatment is rehabilitation to restore strength, balance and proprioception, combined with a brace in selected cases. Restricted movement, alignment and other factors contributing to functional instability are also addressed.
Before the procedure
Preparation and safety
- complete an appropriate rehabilitation programme and keep track of any persistent giving-way episodes;
- plan for immobilisation and protected weight-bearing;
- tell the medical team about diabetes, anticoagulant treatment, allergies, smoking and any active infection;
- do not stop or change long-term medication without instructions from the medical team;
After the procedure
Rehabilitation
A period of ligament protection is followed by rehabilitation for mobility, strength, balance and proprioception.
The exact protocol, permitted weight-bearing and follow-up schedule depend on the procedure performed and individual progress.
Informed consent
Risks and limitations
Possible complications include stiffness, persistent pain, residual instability, infection and injury to superficial nerves.
No procedure can guarantee complete pain relief or a return to a particular level of activity.
After surgery
Signs that require prompt medical assessment
- fever, discharge, spreading redness or worsening pain at the wound;
- sudden swelling of the calf, chest pain or difficulty breathing;
- uncontrolled pain, new numbness, or a change in the colour or temperature of the limb.
For severe symptoms or an emergency, call 112. The instructions given to you at discharge take priority over the general information on this page.
Editorial responsibility
Medically reviewed content
Dr. Răzvan Anițaș
Consultant orthopaedic and trauma surgeon; PhD in medical sciences
Last editorial update: 22 August 2026
Medical sources used for patient information
First step
Consultation, diagnosis and an individual treatment recommendation
This information does not replace a consultation. Surgery is recommended only after the individual benefits, alternatives and risks have been assessed.