NEOSYS MEDICAL SOLUTIONS SYNDESMOSIS SYSTEM SURGICAL TECHNIQUE

Syndesmosis Implant System The Syndesmosis implant system provides fixation of syndesmosis disruptions with or without associated ankle fractures. The Syndesmosis implant system is composed of a #5 UHMWPE, that, when tensioned and secured between metallic buttons and placed against the tibia and fibula, provides physiologic stabilization of the ankle mortise. Biomechanical testing and clinical trials have shown equivalent strength and improved patient outcome with the TightRope technique.1,2 The Syndesmosis implant system decreases the need for a second procedure for removal, eliminates any knot...

Stabilize all fractures prior to Syndesmosis implant insertion. Drill all 4 cortices approximately 1.5 cm above the ankle joint, in the transmalleolar plane (~30° anterior to the coronal plane), using the 4.5 mm drill bit. The use of a guidewire and cannulated drill bit is recommended to allow confirmation of accurate positioning prior to drilling; however, a solid drill bit is also provided. The needle and pull-through sutures are passed along the drill hole and out the intact medial skin. The white 2-0 FiberWire pull-through suture advances the leading oblong button, until it just exits the...

Surgical Technique Postoperative Management Following wound closure, immobilize the ankle in neutral dorsiflexion using a short-leg, postoperative splint. Depending on fracture fixation stability and severity of syndesmosis disruption, partial weightbearing may be permitted in a cast or walker boot between 2 to 6 weeks based on surgeon preference. Full weightbearing is typically allowed at 6 weeks, transitioning to a functional brace as tolerated. Implant Removal Routine removal of the implant is not required. However, if hardware removal is necessary, using a scalpel to cut the suture over the...