Syndesmosis ligament injuries often occur in conjunction with other ankle injuries, including sprains and fractures. If a damaged syndesmosis is left untreated, poor results often occur. The ankle joint is held in proper alignment by the ends of the tibia and fibula, which wraps around the inner and outer side of the ankle. If the syndesmosis is damaged, the ankle joint may become unstable.
A syndesmosis injury occurs when the foot twists outwards relative to the leg. This type of injury can occur when the ankle is forcefully twisted outwards, or when the foot is planted, and the leg twists inwards.
When the syndesmosis is repaired surgically, this is usually done with metal screws that pass through the fibula and into the tibia. These screws must be positioned once the syndesmosis has been placed in proper position and alignment. Either one or two screws may be used, depending on the type of injury and your surgeon's preference.
Often, your surgeon will recommend removing the screws after about 3-4 months.