[Diagnosis, therapy and results of acute instability of the syndesmosis of the upper ankle joint (isolated anterior rupture of the syndesmosis)].

Instability of the syndesmosis of the ankle is defined as a rupture of the anterior tibiofibular ligament and the interosseus membrane. We discuss two different ways in which the injury can occur: the external rotation mechanism and the supination mechanism. Clinical findings allowing a definite diagnosis are always present. These can be confirmed by arthrography of the ankle. A total of 92 patients have been operatively treated by suture of the ligament and reinforcement of the syndesmosis by a positioning screw.