Ankle Ligament Reconstruction

How Ligaments & Tendons Interact in Your Ankle

The ankle and foot are held together by ligaments and tendons. The ligaments on both sides of the ankle are tightly attached to the bones. On the outside (lateral) aspect of the ankle, there are three major ligaments called the lateral collateral ligaments (LCL). On the inside (medial) aspect of the ankle, there is a complex network of ligaments called the medial collateral ligaments (MCL).

Ligaments help to restrict the motion of the ankle joint. When there is an injury to the ligaments, they can be stretched out or torn. This can lead to a sprain of the ligament, weakening them. In cases that are left untreated, or in cases where many sprains are experienced in a short period of time, there will be weakening of the ligaments leading to instability of the ankle.

Repairing Torn or Damaged Ligaments Through Surgery

Your doctor may determine that your ligament tears or ankle instability are severe enough to require surgery. The type of surgery depends on the injury to the ligaments. In some cases, ligaments can be tightened and strengthened again by placing them back onto the bone in their anatomic position, possibly using a small anchor to attach the ligaments into the bone.

When the ligaments are too weakened or destroyed to repair, your doctor may recommend ligament reconstruction. Ligament reconstruction surgery involves harvesting a tendon to replace your damaged ligament. The most common source is your peroneus brevis tendon (the tendon that pulls the outside of the foot upwards.) The tendon will be routed through the bones of the ankle to reinforce the ankle and provide the support that the ligament had previously provided.

Of the many different types of ankle ligament procedures or modifications of procedures performed, the more common ones are direct lateral ligament repair, peroneus brevis tendon rerouting, peroneus brevis tendon loop, and peroneus brevis tendon split and rerouting.

What to Expect After Your Surgery

Hoag Orthopedic Institute is recognized for our dedicated orthopedic specialty care from our nurses to doctors, physical therapists and staff. Most ligament reconstruction patients go home the same day as the operation. You will have a plaster cast below the knee, and you won’t be able to bear weight on the foot for about 10-14 days.

After the initial period, the cast will be replaced by a walker boot, which you will be able to remove in order to do exercises. The Hoag Orthopedic Institute physical therapy team will work together with your surgeon to help you return to your normal activities as quickly as possible.

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Why Choose Hoag Orthopedic Institute for Foot & Ankle Ligament Reconstruction

Hoag Orthopedic Institute continually procures and implements the most advanced foot and ankle treatments including using state-of-the-art technology in arthroscopic surgery of the ankle and foot. The team is highly trained and experienced, as well as board-certified and fellowship-trained in foot and ankle treatments.

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Frequently Asked Questions

During your first appointment with a foot and ankle specialist at Hoag Orthopedic Institute, you’ll receive a comprehensive evaluation designed to identify the root cause of your symptoms and build a treatment plan tailored to you.
Your foot doctor will review your medical history, ask about your activity level and goals, and perform a hands-on exam. Depending on your condition, they may use diagnostic tools such as X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI to assess bones, joints, tendons, and ligaments in greater detail.
Throughout the visit, your foot and ankle doctor will explain their findings, answer your questions, and walk you through your treatment options, whether conservative or surgical. You’ll leave with a clear plan and confidence that your care is in expert hands.
At Hoag Orthopedic Institute, our foot and ankle doctors provide both non-surgical and surgical solutions tailored to your specific condition and long-term goals. Non-surgical treatments may include rest, bracing, physical therapy, orthotics, corticosteroid injections, ultrasound therapy, and activity modification..
When surgery is the most effective option, our board-certified foot and ankle surgeons specialize in minimally invasive arthroscopic and robotic-assisted techniques. These procedures have been proven to reduce pain, speed recovery, and support better long-term function.
Whether you’re dealing with a sports injury, arthritis, or chronic instability, your orthopedic foot and ankle specialist will develop a treatment plan focused on relieving pain and restoring mobility — so you can get back on your feet again.
Scheduling an appointment with a highly qualified foot doctor is quick and convenient at Hoag Orthopedic Institute. Please request a consultation online or call (949) 890-0464 to speak directly with our team. They’ll match you with the right foot and ankle specialist based on your needs and availability.
Whether you need a diagnosis, a second opinion, or advanced treatment, one of our trusted foot and ankle doctors will provide state-of-the-art diagnostics and a personalized treatment plan for your recovery. We prioritize clear communication and patient-focused care from the first call to your first visit. Let's help you take the next step with confidence.
At Hoag Orthopedic Institute, board-certified foot doctors and fellowship-trained foot and ankle specialists deliver exceptional care using today’s most advanced techniques. Whether you're facing chronic foot pain, sports injuries, or complex conditions, our foot and ankle doctors create a personalized treatment plan to help you heal faster and move with a greater range of motion.
Our foot and ankle orthopedic surgeons are skilled in minimally invasive and robotic-assisted procedures that support quicker recovery with fewer complications. From diagnosis to rehab, every step of your care is guided by trusted foot and ankle specialists focused on your comfort and goals.
Patients choose our expert foot doctors for personalized care backed by innovation, compassion, and consistently excellent outcomes.

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