Traumatic dislocation of posterior tibial tendon by avulsion of flexor retinacular release. Reconstruction with suture anchors

Abstract Introduction Traumatic dislocation of the posterior tibial tendon (PTT) has a very low prevalence. It presents with pain and recurrent snapping on the posterior side of the medial malleolus after an ankle sprain while practicing sports. The diagnosis is based on clinical examination, supported by imaging techniques. The treatment must be always surgical. Case report A 28-year-old man sprained his ankle while jogging. He was treated in an emergency department with an elastic bandage. Once he recovered, he went back to running, noticing a projection with ankle pain. In the physical examination the PTT was reproduced with inversion maneuvers and forced dorsiflexion. Ultrasound and MRI were performed on the ankle. The patient was operated on, leaving a stable ankle with no projection. Three months later he had no pain and restarted his physical activities. Conclusion Surgical treatment of PTT dislocation by re-anchoring the flexor retinacula provides an excellent functional outcome.