Comparative short-term outcomes of arthroscopic versus open Brostr??m-Gould repair for chronic lateral ankle instability: a randomized study from Mongolia.

Study Summary

50 patients with chronic lateral ankle instability were randomized to receive arthroscopic Broström–Gould repair or open Broström–Gould repair. The primary outcome was the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot score. Secondary outcomes included the Karlsson–Peterson score, Tegner activity score, visual analogue scale (VAS) pain score, anterior drawer test, hospitalization duration, and complications. Outcomes were assessed at 6, 12, and 24 months. Overall, both procedures produced substantial improvements, with comparable functional outcomes and mechanical stability at 24 months. Arthroscopic repair provided better early functional recovery, less pain at final follow-up, and a shorter hospital stay, suggesting that it is an effective minimally invasive alternative to open repair.