Abstract
Objective
The purpose of our study was to use magnetic resonance (MR) imaging and MR arthrography
to demonstrate the anatomy of the lateral ankle ligaments using standard and oblique
imaging planes in cadavers.
Material and methods
MR imaging of ten cadaveric ankles was performed before and after intra-articular
administration of contrast solution. Proton-density MR images were acquired in standard
and oblique imaging planes. MR imaging was correlated with anatomic sections. Measurements
using oblique imaging planes were obtained to characterize the morphology of the lateral
ligaments.
Results
The anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) had a variable number of bands in all specimens,
separated by fat signal oriented obliquely parallel to the long axis of the ligament.
The fibular attachment of ATFL was located in close proximity to the fibular attachment
of the distal band of the anterior tibiofibular ligament (AITFL). The angle formed
by the calcaneofibular ligament (CFL) and the fibular shaft varied with different
ankle positions. Special axial oblique plane best demonstrated the CFL. The posterior
talofibular ligament (PTFL) was multi-fasciculated in appearance. Dorsiflexion of
the ankle joint helped elongate the PTFL and best depicted this ligament in its entirety
in the axial plane.
Conclusion
Oblique imaging planes parallel to the long axis of the individual ligaments may improve
visualization of the anatomy of the lateral ankle ligaments. The orientation of the
lateral ankle ligaments is affected by the position of the talocrural and subtalar
joints. Understanding the morphology of the lateral ankle ligaments can help radiologists
diagnose abnormalities of these ligaments.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: July 12, 2010
Accepted:
December 9,
2009
Received:
November 2,
2009
Identification
Copyright
© 2011 Elsevier Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
