LONG-TERM OUTCOME AFTER RUPTURED LATERAL ANKLE LIGAMENTS - A PROSPECTIVE-STUDY OF 3 DIFFERENT TREATMENTS IN 79 PATIENTS WITH 11-YEAR FOLLOW-UP

In a prospective study of 79 patients with arthrographically Verified acute ruptured lateral ankle ligaments we have evaluated the long-term results of 3 different treatments: operation and walking-cast for 5 w eeks, walking-cast alone, and elastic bandage. The follow-up period wa s 11 (9-13) years. Residual disabilities and late complications, such as instability, pain on activity, and the number of ligament reconstru ctions and talocrural arthroses were equally low in all 3 groups. We c onclude that nonoperative treatment seems adequate.