Comparing two methods for fixing ankle syndesmosis injuries

Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Clinical Outcomes of Patients Treated Surgically With Suture Button Versus Fibulink Fixation for Acute Ankle Syndesmosis Injuries

NA · United States Naval Medical Center, San Diego · NCT05626036

This study is testing which of two surgical methods, a suture button or the Fibulink system, works better for fixing ankle injuries and helping patients feel better after surgery.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment50 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUnited States Naval Medical Center, San Diego (fed)
Locations1 site (San Diego, California)
Trial IDNCT05626036 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial aims to compare the effectiveness of two fixation methods, the suture button and the Fibulink system, for treating acute syndesmosis injuries associated with ankle fractures. The study will involve patients who require surgical intervention for their injuries and will assess outcomes such as pain, stability, and long-term joint health. By evaluating these two approaches, the trial seeks to determine which method provides better clinical outcomes and reduces the risk of complications. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive one of the two fixation methods.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older who have an ankle fracture with an associated syndesmotic injury requiring surgical intervention.

Not a fit: Patients with severe systemic diseases, those who prefer a specific implant, or those who refuse randomization may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved treatment options for patients with ankle syndesmosis injuries, potentially reducing complications and enhancing recovery.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been studies on various fixation methods for syndesmosis injuries, this trial is novel as it directly compares the Fibulink system to the established suture button approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Ankle fracture with associated syndesmotic injury requiring surgery
* Age 18 years or older
* Ability to understand the content of the patient information/Informed consent form

Exclusion Criteria:

* Any not medically managed severe systemic disease
* Patient preference for specific implant
* Refusal of randomization
* Pregnant patients
* Prisoners
* Participation in any other pharmacologic or medicinal product study within the previous month that could influence the results of this study

Where this trial is running

San Diego, California

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Syndesmotic Injuries, syndesmosis, clinical outcomes, ankle fracture

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.