What is the InternalBrace™?

The InternalBrace is a high-strength FiberTape® bridge that is used to augment a traditional ligament repair. It acts as a 'seatbelt' for the ligament, providing immediate stability and protecting the repair while it heals, which can lead to a faster recovery and lower risk of re-injury.

How long is recovery after ligament repair with InternalBrace?

With InternalBrace augmentation, many patients can begin early weight-bearing and range-of-motion exercises much sooner than with traditional repairs—often within 1-2 weeks. Return to sports typically occurs around 3-4 months, compared to 6 months with traditional techniques.

Is the InternalBrace long-term?

Yes, the InternalBrace is designed to stay in your ankle long-term. It is made of a high-strength, biocompatible material that does not typically cause irritation and is intended to provide durable support without the need for removal.

Can I have this surgery if I've had previous ankle sprains?

Yes, chronic ankle instability from repeated sprains is the primary reason for this procedure. The goal is to restore stability and prevent future 'giving way' episodes.

Ankle Ligament Repair in Canada

Using the Arthrex InternalBrace™ to augment the traditional Brostrom repair with high-strength suture tape—an approach designed to protect the repair and facilitate rehabilitation for chronic ankle instability.

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What is Lateral Ligament Repair?

Chronic ankle instability often results from repeated ankle sprains that have stretched or torn the lateral ligaments (the ATFL and CFL). This causes a "giving way" sensation that limits your ability to perform sports or even walk on uneven ground.

The Brostrom procedure is the standard surgical treatment to tighten and repair these ligaments. At Pathway, our surgeons often use the InternalBrace™ technique to reinforce this repair—providing secondary support during the critical healing phase.

Symptoms of Chronic Ankle Instability

Repeated ankle sprains

Persistent "wobbly" sensation

Pain/swelling after activity

Fear of ankle giving way

The InternalBrace™ acts as a "check-rein" to prevent future sprains during the healing process, allowing for an earlier return to activity than traditional surgery.

Joint Stability Technology

Arthrex InternalBrace™ Augmentation

Providing immediate mechanical support to the repaired ligament

The "Seatbelt" Concept

The InternalBrace™ is a high-strength FiberTape® bridge that is anchored into the bone across the site of the ligament repair. It does not replace the ligament; rather, it protects the biological repair while it heals.

Biological Repair

The natural ligaments are anatomically reattached and tightened

Internal Augmentation

The high-strength suture tape is placed alongside the repair

Immediate Stability

The brace provides mechanical strength from day one

Accelerated Rehab

Protection allows for earlier weight-bearing and movement

Arthrex InternalBrace Ankle Ligament Augmentation

InternalBrace™ Ligament Augmentation System

Benefits

Why Augment with InternalBrace™?

Faster Recovery

Reduced time in a cast or boot; earlier weight-bearing
Reduced Re-injury Risk

Long-term reinforcement helps protect against secondary stretches/tears
Structural Stability

Mechanical support designed to protect the repair during initial healing
Earlier Return to Sport

Allows athletes to begin cutting and lateral movements sooner

Recovery Comparison

TRAD

Traditional Repair

No Augmentation

4-6 weeks non-weight bearing 6 months to return-to-sport activities

InternalBrace™ Augmentation

Accelerated Recovery

1-2 weeks non-weight bearing 3-4 months to return-to-sport activities

*Timelines are based on clinical averages. Individual recovery speed depends on patient health and adherence to rehabilitation.

Your Ankle Specialist

Fellowship-trained surgeon expert in ligament reconstruction and InternalBrace™ technique

Dr. Danny Arora

Minimally Invasive Foot & Ankle Surgery

Duke University Fellowship Trained

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Frequently Asked Questions

The InternalBrace is made of high-strength FiberTape® which is very low-profile. Once healed, the vast majority of patients do not feel the brace at all. It is designed to remain long-term in the ankle and does not typically need to be removed.

Most patients are in a splint or non-weight bearing for the first 1-2 weeks to allow the skin and soft tissues to heal. However, the InternalBrace provides enough stability that weight-bearing and range-of-motion exercises can often begin much earlier than with traditional repairs.

Yes. The InternalBrace is made of high-strength, biocompatible FiberTape® that is designed to remain in your ankle long-term. It acts as secondary reinforcement for the duration of the repair and typically does not need to be removed.

Absolutely. In fact, most candidates for this procedure are individuals who have suffered from many years of repeated ankle sprains that have led to chronic instability. The goal is to restore the native anatomy and provide the extra stability needed to prevent future episodes.

No referral is required. You can book a consultation directly with our surgical team to discuss your ankle instability. If you have any previous imaging, such as X-rays or an MRI, please bring them to your appointment.

References & Disclosures

Technology information regarding the InternalBrace™ system is provided by Arthrex, Inc., the manufacturer. For complete product information, indications, contraindications, warnings, precautions, and adverse events, please refer to the manufacturer's official documentation.

Arthrex InternalBrace™: Arthrex Product Information

Individual results may vary. This information is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Please consult with your surgeon to determine if you are a candidate for ligament repair surgery.