Comparative Study on Accuracy of Different Diagnostic Methods of Lateral Ligament Complex Injury of Ankle

Background: The lateral ligament complex of ankle joint consisting of the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL), the calcaneofibular ligament (CFL), and the posterior talofibular ligament (PTFL), is often injured by an ankle sprain. Improper diagnosis and treatment of lateral ligament complex injury are not only prone to recurrent sprain, pain, swelling and other symptoms, but also can lead to chronic lateral ankle instability, and osteoarthritis, which could seriously affect the joint motor function.

Method and objective: This study is a prospective diagnostic test. By comparing the sensitivity and specificity of stress X-ray, B-ultrasound, Computed tomography (CT), and Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and analyzing the imaging manifestations and characteristics of different diagnostic methods of lateral chronic ankle instability, We aim to propose the criteria of the imaging diagnosis of lateral ankle ligament injury.