Return-to-sport rate and time in elite athletes after ankle syndesmosis injuries: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Elite athletes sustaining ankle syndesmosis injuries demonstrate a high likelihood of returning to sport, with a pooled RTS rate of 96%. Comparable outcomes were observed following both suture-button fixation and nonoperative management, with most athletes resuming play within 2 months. Most athletes can anticipate favorable outcomes regardless of treatment strategy, though management should still be individualized based on injury severity and sport-specific demands.