Over the course of a year from the start of the research study, twenty subjects will be randomized evenly into one of two groups after an informed consent is obtained: a traditional tight rope fixation group or a tight rope fixation with an anterior inferior tibiofibular ligament (AITFL) repair augmentation with an internal brace group. Postoperative reduction was assessed by 3D volumetric ratios and measured by weight-bearing CT at 6-weeks and 3-months post-operation. Patient Reported Outcomes (PROs) were collected preoperatively, and at 6-weeks, 3-months, 6-months, and 1-year post-operation and included the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score and the 36-Item Short Form Survey Instrument (RAND-36) . Differences in volumetric ratios and PROs were evaluated between groups and time periods.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 80 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* patients who fit the study injury list
Exclusion Criteria:
* smokers
* prior surgery on ankle
* bi-lateral surgery
* recent participation in another study within the last 90days
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Syndesmotic Volumetric Ratio
Timeframe: 6-Weeks Post-op
2
Syndesmotic Volumetric Ratio
Timeframe: 3 months post-operative volume
Trial details
NCT IDNCT05062265
SponsorVann Virginia Center for Orthopaedics dba Atlantic Orthopaedic Specialists