Anatomical variations of the lateral collateral ligament of the ankle: Implications of sex and laterality on morphology and morphometry

Q3 Medicine

Translational Research in Anatomy Pub Date : 2025-03-24 DOI:10.1016/j.tria.2025.100394

Ndumiso Siphelele Hlengwa , Okikioluwa Stephen Aladeyelu , Seke Nzau Mafuika , Livashin Naidu , Carmen Olivia Rennie

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引用次数: 0

Abstract

Introduction

A detailed understanding of the anatomical dimensions of the lateral collateral ligament (LCL) is essential in the surgical treatment of ankle joint injuries and ligament rehabilitation. While previous studies have explored the general morphology and morphometry of the LCL, there remains a gap in understanding how these characteristics vary based on sex and laterality. This study aimed to investigate the morphological and morphometric variations of the LCL, focusing on differences between sexes and between right and left ankles.

Method

Thirty-one ankles from sixteen human cadavers were dissected to investigate the LCL of the ankle. The LCL consists of the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL), calcaneofibular ligament (CFL), and posterior talofibular ligament (PTFL). Each ligament of the LCL was classified into three types according to the number of bands, i.e., Type I– single band, Type II– double bands (IIa-partially separated & IIb-completely separated), and Type III– triple bands for morphological observation. The length, width, and thickness of these ligaments were measured using a calliper for morphometric analysis and compared among sex and laterality.

Result

Type I was the most observed in all three ligaments (ATFL-61.3 %; CFL-87.1 %; PTFL-96.8 %). Significant sex differences were observed, with males having more Type I, while females had more Type II and III (p < 0.05). PTFL was significantly longer (25.31 ± 3.87 mm) and wider (7.05 ± 2.07 mm) in females (p < 0.05). CFL was significantly longer on the right (37.09 ± 4.57 mm; p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Morphological and morphometric variations significantly exist in the ligaments that make up the LCL in relation to sex and laterality. These identified variations could improve diagnostic accuracy, enhance surgical planning, and inform sex-specific rehabilitation strategies.

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来源期刊

Translational Research in Anatomy Medicine-Anatomy

CiteScore

2.90

自引率

0.00%

发文量

审稿时长

25 days

期刊介绍： Translational Research in Anatomy is an international peer-reviewed and open access journal that publishes high-quality original papers. Focusing on translational research, the journal aims to disseminate the knowledge that is gained in the basic science of anatomy and to apply it to the diagnosis and treatment of human pathology in order to improve individual patient well-being. Topics published in Translational Research in Anatomy include anatomy in all of its aspects, especially those that have application to other scientific disciplines including the health sciences: • gross anatomy • neuroanatomy • histology • immunohistochemistry • comparative anatomy • embryology • molecular biology • microscopic anatomy • forensics • imaging/radiology • medical education Priority will be given to studies that clearly articulate their relevance to the broader aspects of anatomy and how they can impact patient care.Strengthening the ties between morphological research and medicine will foster collaboration between anatomists and physicians. Therefore, Translational Research in Anatomy will serve as a platform for communication and understanding between the disciplines of anatomy and medicine and will aid in the dissemination of anatomical research. The journal accepts the following article types: 1. Review articles 2. Original research papers 3. New state-of-the-art methods of research in the field of anatomy including imaging, dissection methods, medical devices and quantitation 4. Education papers (teaching technologies/methods in medical education in anatomy) 5. Commentaries 6. Letters to the Editor 7. Selected conference papers 8. Case Reports