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Ankle Reconstruction

Lateral Ankle Ligament Reconstruction – When Is Surgery Needed? 

Almost everyone will experience an ankle sprain at some point. These injuries range from mild to severe, and in most cases, non-surgical treatment works. Even if you’ve ruptured the two major ligaments on the outside of the ankle—the Anterior Talo-Fibular Ligament (ATFL) and Calcaneo-Fibular Ligament (CFL)—you do not need surgery immediately. 

First-Line Treatment 

  • Rehabilitation: Structured physiotherapy to restore strength and stability. 
  • Bracing and Taping: To support the ankle during recovery. 
  • Time: Most patients recover well within 4–5 months. 

When Surgery Becomes an Option 

If, after adequate rehab and bracing, your ankle still feels unstable—rolling over on uneven ground or giving way during daily activities—you may have chronic ankle instability. At this stage, Lateral Ankle Ligament Reconstruction can restore stability and prevent further injury. 

 

A/Prof Hazratwala’s Advanced Technique 

A/Prof Hazratwala has pioneered and published a novel surgical technique for ankle ligament reconstruction using donor (allograft) tendon. This method reconstructs both the ATFL and CFL ligaments, providing: 

  • Predictable, reliable outcomes in preventing re-injury. 
  • Reduced failure rates compared to traditional methods. 
  • Faster rehabilitation – patients can weight-bear immediately and start physiotherapy without prolonged casting. 

This technique has been peer-reviewed and published internationally, making it a trusted option for patients with chronic ankle instability. 

 

Key Takeaways 

  • Surgery is not the first step—it’s only considered when non-operative management fails. 
  • If your ankle remains unstable after months of rehab, don’t ignore it—persistent instability can lead to cartilage damage and arthritis. 
  • A/Prof Hazratwala’s technique offers a modern, proven solution for long-term ankle stability. 

 

Bottom line: If you’ve had repeated ankle sprains and your ankle still feels unstable despite proper rehab, book a consultation to see if you’re a candidate for this advanced reconstruction technique.