What is the Brostrom Procedure?

Chronic ankle instability can make standing, walking and running feel uncomfortable and unsteady. The Brostrom procedure, also known as lateral ankle ligament reconstruction, is a surgical solution designed to restore strength and stability to the ankle. If you have persistent swelling or discomfort, frequent ankle sprains, or your ankle gives way when you walk or perform other activities, you may want to consider this procedure. Understanding the benefits, process and recovery can help you make an informed decision.

Why might someone need the Brostrom procedure?

Ankle instability often develops after repeated ankle sprains or ligament injuries that fail to heal properly. When the outer ankle ligaments become weak, stretched or loosened, they can no longer provide the support needed to perform various activities, including walking and running. This leads to frequent rolling of the ankle or the ankle giving way, which can result in damage to the other structures of the foot and ankle. The Brostrom procedure is typically performed on individuals who experience ongoing ankle instability, generally after they’ve exhausted other options like physical therapy or wearing ankle braces.

What are the benefits?

The main benefit of the Brostrom procedure is improved ankle stability, which can reduce the risk of future sprains and other injuries. The procedure can also help alleviate pain in the ankle and improve mobility. For athletes and active individuals, this procedure is beneficial for preventing long-term damage by reducing repeated stress on the ankle and by helping them regain the strength required for high-impact activities. Overall, restoring strength in the ligaments through lateral ankle ligament reconstruction allows patients to return to their regular activities with comfort and confidence. 

What happens during the procedure?

During the Brostrom procedure, the lateral ankle ligaments are tightened through a small incision on the outside of the ankle using strong sutures and bands to restore stability. Small fibular anchors may be added for extra support or nearby supportive tissue may be incorporated to strengthen the repair. Once the ligaments are stabilized, the surgeon carefully closes the incision to allow for proper healing.

What does the recovery process look like?

The exact time it takes to recover from the Brostrom procedure varies depending on the severity of damage to the lateral ankle ligaments, the patient’s age and fitness level, and adherence to physical therapy. Although the recovery time and process look different for everyone, there are a few main stages to expect:

• First few weeks: The first couple of weeks after surgery involve lots of rest. During this time, you will not put any weight on the ankle and may use crutches or wear a cast or boot. In this recovery phase, it’s important to ice the ankle and keep it elevated to reduce swelling.
• Physical therapy: After the first few weeks of healing, your doctor will recommend physical therapy. This is crucial for regaining strength and range of motion in your ankle. 
• Becoming more active: Depending on your progress, light activities like walking may be possible within a few weeks. However, it may take several months to return to high-impact activities like sports and other exercise. It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions when it comes to physical activity to prevent any delays in the healing process or cause further injury.

When should you ask a podiatrist about the procedure?

If you’re experiencing chronic ankle instability, frequent sprains or persistent pain and tenderness, especially after trying other treatments like physical therapy, speak to a podiatrist about the Brostrom procedure. A podiatrist can assess your condition and help you determine if this surgery is right for you. If your daily activities are being impacted and conservative treatments haven’t provided relief, discussing your options with a specialist is a good next step.

North Texas Foot & Ankle is dedicated to providing high-quality, compassionate care to our patients to help them maintain the best possible foot health. We take the time to understand your unique needs and work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan. If you’re considering the Brostrom procedure or have concerns regarding chronic ankle instability, the team at North Texas Foot & Ankle is here to help! Schedule a consultation with us online or call us today at (214)-574-9255.