Objective To summarize the research progress on augmentation repair of anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) under arthroscopy. Methods The domestic and international studies from the past decade on augmentation repair techniques for the ATFL. The advantages and limitations of each approach were summarized and the outcomes of these augmentation repair techniques when applied to ATFL repair were evaluated. Results Mechanical augmentation technique (suture tape or internal brace technique, double anchor enhancement technique) can increase the strength after ATFL repair, but it will increase the economic burden of the patients; bioenhanced repair technology (inferior extensor retinaculum enhancement, anterior tibiofibular ligament’s distal fascicle transfer augmentation) can also increase the strength after ATFL repair, but it will damage the anatomical structure in the ankle cavity to a certain extent, and the surgery is difficult, and the operation time will prolong and also increase the incidence of perioperative complications. Regardless of the augmentation repair techniques used, the benefits are higher for patients with high exercise needs, and active postoperative rehabilitation is required to maximize the surgical effect. Conclusion Although augmentation repair of ATFL offers several advantages, its use—whether augmentation should be employed and, if so, which technique is preferable—requires further study across patient subgroups owing to increased costs, potential disruption of ankle anatomy, and longer operation time.
Objective To review the application progress of internal brace ligament augmentation (IBLA) technology in the repair and reconstruction of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) or posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injuries, and to clarify the development trends of IBLA technology. Methods A comprehensive review of recent domestic and international in vitro and in vivo biomechanical studies, animal experiments, and clinical research on IBLA technology was conducted. The effects of this technology on postoperative biomechanics, histological changes, and clinical outcomes following ACL and PCL repair and reconstruction were analyzed and summarized. Results IBLA technology provides enhanced knee stability in the early postoperative period after ACL and PCL repair and reconstruction. It promotes healing at the ligament injury site and increases the biomechanical strength of tendon grafts, thereby reducing postoperative failure rates. IBLA demonstrates good histocompatibility in vivo. Clinical follow-up shows that IBLA improves early postoperative knee stability, range of motion, and functional scores. Patients undergoing rapid rehabilitation achieve more satisfactory outcomes, with no reported serious complications. Conclusion The combination of IBLA with ACL and PCL repair and reconstruction promotes rapid early postoperative recovery and shows promising application prospects. However, further optimization of IBLA material properties and related surgical techniques is needed. Additionally, the long-term effectiveness, structural remodeling of the grafts and repaired ligaments, and the underlying biomechanical functional mechanisms require further clarification.