Articular Cartilage of the Syndesmosis: Avoiding Iatrogenic Cartilage Injury During Syndesmotic Fixation

Background: The optimal surgical management of syndesmosis injuries consists of internal fixation between the distal fibula and tibia. Much of the available data on this joint details the anatomy of the syndesmotic ligaments. Little is published evaluating the distribution of articular cartilage of the syndesmosis, which is of importance to minimize the risk of iatrogenic damage during surgical treatment. The purpose of this study is to describe the articular cartilage of the syndesmosis. Methods: Twenty cadaveric ankles were dissected to identify the cartilage of the syndesmosis. Digital images of the articular cartilage were taken and measured using calibrated digital imaging software. Results: On the tibial side, distinct articular cartilage extending above the plafond was identified in 19/20 (95%) specimens. The tibial cartilage extended a mean of 6 +/- 3 (range, 2-13) mm above the plafond. On the fibular side, 6/20 (30%) specimens demonstrated cartilage proximal to the talar facet, which extended a mean of 24 +/- 4 (range, 20-31) mm above the tip of the fibula. The superior extent of the syndesmotic recess was a mean of 10 +/- 3 (range, 5-17) mm in height. In all specimens, the syndesmosis cartilage did not extend more than 13 mm proximal to the tibial plafond and the syndesmotic recess did not extend more than 17 mm proximal to the tibial plafond. Conclusion: Syndesmosis fixation placed more than 13 mm proximal to the tibial plafond would have safely avoided the articular cartilage in all specimens and the synovial-lined syndesmotic recess in most.