Hypotheses: The modified Brostrom procedure is an anatomic reconstruction of the lateral ankle ligaments. The aim of this retrospective study was to determine the clinical outcome after surgical repair of the lateral ankle ligaments using suture anchors as part of the modified Brostrom procedure in the treatment of chronic anterolateral ankle instability.

Methods: All patients were evaluated postoperatively by physical examinations and stress radiographs using Telos® equipment. Additional postoperative assessment consisted of a questionnaire, inversion and eversion isokinetic strength measurements and Sachs hop test to assess ankle confidence.

Results: Over a 3 year period, 27 young, athletic patients (mean age at operation 22 years) underwent anatomical reconstruction by the senior author. At a mean follow-up of 14 months (range 3–36 months), 25 (91%) reported a good or excellent functional outcome as assessed by the Karlsson and Peterson ankle function scoring scale. Twenty-five patients had no evidence of instability on physical examination or on stress radiographs. One patient required revision. One patient developed a superficial wound infection, which responded to oral antibiotics. Twenty five patients were able to jump 97% of the hop distance of the non operated ankle.

Conclusions: Reconstruction of the lateral ankle ligaments using the modified Brostrom procedure with suture anchors results in a good or excellent outcome in the majority of patients engaged in physically demanding sports.