Subtle Syndesmotic Instability

Abstract

Latent or subtle syndesmotic instability is defined as an injury to the syndesmosis which is not apparent on static radiographs of the ankle. Syndesmotic injuries have also been referred to as high ankle sprains. Injury to the syndesmosis typically occurs with collision sports and often involves an external rotation force to the ankle. Diagnosis can be delayed because of negative initial imaging studies. Physical examination tests including the external rotation test, proximal squeeze test, and fibular shuck test can assist in the diagnosis. Advanced imaging modalities such as MRI and weight-bearing CT have been studied and can provide prognostic indications for management, although arthroscopic stress evaluation remains the benchmark for diagnosis. Both surgical and nonsurgical management techniques have been described, which can assist patients in returning to their preinjury level of function.