Purpose: Documentation via MRI of the healing of ruptured lateral collateral ankle ligaments after functional therapy.
Patients and methods: 35 patients with ankle sprain were examined by MRI and stress radiographs, 13 were operated afterwards, 22 patients underwent a functional conservative therapy and were examined by MRI and stress radiographs and second time after three months.
Results: MRI reports were correct in 12 of 13 operated cases. After conservative therapy we did not find any disrupted ankle ligament. MRI showed intact ligaments thickened by scar.
Conclusion: MRI is able to show injuries of the lateral collateral ankle ligaments and demonstrates the healing by scar after conservative therapy.