Peroneal tendon irritation after arthroscopic modified Broström procedure: A case report

Abstract

Rationale: With the development of ankle arthroscope techniques and procedures, the number of arthroscopic modified Broström procedures (MBPs) is increasing. All-inside arthroscopic MBP was developed recently, with good to excellent results. However, several complications have been reported in patients after arthroscopic MBP. This case report describes a rare complication of arthroscopic MBP. Patient concerns: A 34-year-old woman presented with severe pain in her right ankle and underwent arthroscopic MBP for lateral ankle instability. About 6 months postoperatively, she presented with severe pain on the lateral aspect of the right ankle, especially while walking. Diagnosis: In physical examinations, there was marked swelling around the ankle and focal tenderness in the posterolateral malleolar area. Ankle ultrasonography showed a diffuse low-echoic mass-like lesion at the distal fibula between the fibular tip and peroneus tendon. T1-weighted sagittal magnetic resonance imaging images showed an irregularly shaped mass-like lesion with a heterogeneous signal near the distal fibula posteriorly where the anchor protruded. Interventions: The suture anchor in the posterior distal fibula area, which had irritated the peroneus tendon, was removed with debridement of the granulomatous lesion. Outcomes: At the 3-month follow-up, the patient was almost asymptomatic and had a nearly full range of motion. No complications or recurrent symptoms were noted at the 1-year follow-up. Lessons: Three-dimensional computed tomography studies of the appropriate fibular depth and position of suture anchors are needed to standardize the procedure and reduce complications.