# An Unusual Outcome Using the TightRope® System in Syndesmotic Injury Management: A Case Report

**Authors:** Fernando A Fernández-Garza, Omar F Rodríguez-Rodríguez, David Muñoz-Leija, Rodrigo E Elizondo-Omaña, Alejandro Quiroga-Garza, Felix Vilchez-Cavazos, Abraham G Espinosa-Uribe

PMC · DOI: 10.7759/cureus.78634 · Cureus · 2025-02-06

## TL;DR

This case report discusses complications from using the TightRope® system for ankle injury repair, highlighting its limitations compared to traditional methods.

## Contribution

The paper presents a rare case of complications with the TightRope® system in syndesmotic injury management.

## Key findings

- The TightRope® system can lead to complications requiring further surgical intervention.
- Dynamic fixation may not always provide the expected stability in syndesmotic injuries.
- This case emphasizes the need for careful patient selection and monitoring when using the TightRope® system.

## Abstract

Syndesmotic injuries of the ankle are critical for maintaining joint stability and function, especially during weight-bearing activities. While traditional management involves rigid fixation with trans-syndesmotic screws, limitations such as restricted micromovement, potential screw breakage, and the need for secondary procedures have spurred the adoption of dynamic fixation methods like the TightRope® system (Arthrex, Naples, Florida, US). This report presents a case of a 54-year-old female with complications related to TightRope fixation following open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of a bimalleolar fracture. The case highlights the clinical course, surgical management, and outcomes, providing valuable insights into the limitations and potential complications of this technique.

## Full-text entities

- **Diseases:** Syndesmotic Injury (MESH:D016512), fracture (MESH:D050723)

## Full text

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## Figures

3 figures with captions in the complete paper: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC11890116/full.md

## References

12 references — full list in the complete paper: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC11890116/full.md

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Source: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC11890116