Reconstruction of the lateral ligaments of the ankle using the plantaris tendon.

The plantaris tendon was used to reconstruct the torn lateral ligaments in the ankles of nine patients in whom surgical repair of the ligaments was not feasible. All of these patients were followed for more than two years and were able to return to their preoperative occupational and athletic activities. The use of the plantaris tendon permits an anatomical reconstruction of the lateral ligaments and, unlike previously described procedures, avoids sacrificing the dynamic effect of the peroneus brevis muscle in preventing inversion of the foot.