Systematic Ultrasound in the Initial Assessment of Ankle Sprain

Evaluation of the Value of Systematic Ultrasound in the Initial Assessment of Ankle Sprain on Functional Prognosis at 3 Months in the General Population: Pilot Observational Study (PFEEC)

Ankle sprains are the most frequently encountered trauma in emergency and general medicine. Lateral ankle sprain injuries have the highest relapse rate of all musculoskeletal injuries of the lower limbs. Optimal initial management is essential for a successful return to previous condition, with the aim of preventing chronic ankle instability, chronic pain, stiffness or recurrence. One of the 13 physicians at our facility routinely performs an ultrasound routinely scan during the second consultation to assess the severity of the sprain. We would therefore like to evaluate whether the performance of this examination at the time of clinical reassessment is associated with a better prognosis at 3 months post-trauma.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Clinical diagnosis of ankle sprain made during a preliminary prior consultation
• Patients undergoing re-evaluation of sprain severity, between D3 and D6 of trauma

Exclusion Criteria:

• Medial sprain
• Sprain recurrence <6 months
• Age < 15 years
• Radiographic fracture confirmed on an X-ray performed between initial diagnosis and re-evaluation visit
• History of hyperlaxity syndrome