MRI features of posterior ankle impingement syndrome in ballet dancers: a review of 25 cases

Abstract

Aim: To describe the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of posterior ankle impingement syndrome (PAIS) in classical ballet dancers.

Materials and methods: A retrospective review was undertaken of 25 MRI examinations of the ankle performed on 23 ballet dancers over a 26-month period. Images were examined for the presence of osseous and soft-tissue anatomical variants at the posterior ankle and imaging signs of PAIS. All patients presented with symptoms and signs suggestive of PAIS including posterior ankle pain, swelling and stiffness during plantar flexion.

Results: Anatomical variants predisposing to PAIS including as os trigonum and tuberosity arising from the superior calcaneum were clearly depicted. The most common imaging feature of PAIS in our series was high T2 signal posterior to the talocalcaneal joint indicating synovitis (n = 25). Thickening of the posterior capsule (n = 13) and tenosynovitis of flexor hallucis longus (n = 17) were also common. An os trigonum was an infrequent finding (n = 7). Bone marrow oedema, commonly in the posterior talus (n = 10) or in a patchy distribution (n = 10) was often noted.

Conclusion: MRI is a useful diagnostic tool in PAIS, and in the present series, clearly demonstrates the anatomical variants and range of osseous and soft-tissue abnormalities associated with this condition. Prospective studies are needed to understand the significance and importance of individual MRI findings in producing the symptoms of PAIS.