Long-term results of the Weber operation for chronic ankle instability: 37 patients followed for 20–30 years

Abstract

Background The Weber operation is an anatomical reconstruction of the anterior talofibular ligament with the plantaris tendon. Few long-term studies have been published.

Methods We evaluated 40 ankles in 37 patients (19 women) at an average of 24 years after the procedure.

Results At follow-up, symptoms were present to vary-ing degrees in half of the ankles, but 32 patients were satisfied with the result and approximately two-thirds of the patients had a good or excellent result with the Karlsson and Good scores. Only 3 ankles had secondary arthrotic changes with narrowing (2 patients) or disap-pearance (1 patient) of the joint space.

Interpretation We conclude that the Weber pro-cedure is a good alternative for treatment of chronic anterolateral ankle instability when a direct anatomical reconstruction is not feasible, or has failed.

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