Anatomic study of the deltoid ligament of the ankle

Abstract

Background: There is heterogeneity in the literature regarding the anatomy and number of ligamentous bands that form the deltoid ligament (DL). Anatomic knowledge of the DL and its variations are important for surgeons who repair ankle fractures.

Methods: The DL was dissected in 33 ankles from 17 formalin-fixed cadavers (mean age at death, 76.6 years) to examine its morphology. The length, width, and thickness of its constituent bands were recorded with a digital caliper. Descriptive and correlational statistics were used to investigate the relationships between band size, age at death, and sex. A literature review was conducted to compare our data to those of previous studies.

Results: The DL has superficial and deep layers with up to 8 different bands.

Conclusion: The DL stabilizes the medial ankle and should be evaluated in flatfoot deformities and severe ankle fractures.

Clinical relevance: Anatomic knowledge of DL variations should aid the surgeon in repairing torn DLs.

Keywords: anatomy; deltoid ligament; medial collateral ligament; morphology; surgery.