🦶 CAFL (CFL) Repair with Internal Brace (IB)
🔹 What It Is
. Calcaneofibular ligament (CFL) connects the fibula (outer leg bone) to the calcaneus (heel bone).
. It’s commonly injured in severe ankle sprains or chronic ankle instability, often along with the ATFL (Anterior Talofibular Ligament).
. CAFL Repair (IB) = surgical repair of the torn ligament + reinforcement with an Internal Brace (synthetic tape fixed with anchors).

🔹 When It’s Needed
. Chronic ankle instability (ankle keeps “giving way”).
. Failed conservative treatment (bracing, physio, injections).
. High-grade ligament tear.
. Athletes needing strong and durable ankle stability.

🔹 Surgical Steps (Simplified)
. Small incision on lateral ankle.
. Torn CFL is identified and repaired with sutures (like Broström repair).
. Internal Brace (IB) (FiberTape) is fixed with bone anchors from fibula to calcaneus.
. This reinforces the ligament and allows early mobility while natural healing happens.

🔹 Advantages of Internal Brace
✅ Stronger repair → reduces risk of re-injury.
✅ Allows earlier weight-bearing & rehab.
✅ Preserves natural anatomy (ligament still heals).
✅ Good option for athletes and active patients.

🔹 Risks
⚠️ Infection, wound healing issues.
⚠️ Nerve irritation (tingling on foot).
⚠️ Stiffness or scar tissue.
⚠️ Rare failure of anchors or synthetic tape.

🔹 Recovery Timeline
. Hospital stay: Same-day or 1 night.
. Boot / partial weight-bearing: 2–3 weeks.
. Physiotherapy: starts after ~2–3 weeks.
. Walking normally: 6–8 weeks.
. Return to sports: 3–6 months (faster than traditional repair because of the brace support).