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What does an ankle MRI of a 20-year-old show after injury?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the right ankle was performed following a climbing fall from 3.89 yards, with inversion rolling on impact. This occurred a year ago, and I have had ongoing pain and issues since then. The pain is primarily around the anterior talo-fibular ligament (ATFL) and the joint, with occasional swelling after heavy activity. I am a rock climber and train in the gym. I also work part-time as a personal trainer, so I spend a lot of time on my feet, and I am studying physiotherapy.

The report and scan are attached. I would like a second opinion, as the scan is somewhat subjective. I work in the sport and rehabilitation industry. Please review the scan images to identify any issues. The impressions indicate a high-grade (Grade 2) sprain of the ATFL and calcaneofibular ligament (CFL), a large tibiotalar joint effusion, and lateral malleolus trabecular fractures.

I would like a new report and a second opinion. I am 20 years old, 5 ft 2 in tall, and weigh 114.6 lb. I am currently taking Fluoxetine 20 mg daily for anxiety and depression.

Please help.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Vivek Chail

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan images (attachment removed to protect patient identity) of your right ankle confirm the following findings:

1. The ATFL (anterior talofibular ligament) and CFL (calcaneofibular ligament) are indeed showing signs of a sprain. However, the attachments are relatively intact. There is no tear.

2. The effusion in the ankle joint is significant and visualized surrounding the talotibial joint area and the fluid collection is more in the lateral part of the joint. There is fluid anterior to the joint as well and posterior to the talocalcaneal joint in the Kagers fat pad area.

3. There is mild fluid surrounding the long and short fibular tendons (peroneus longus and brevis).

4. The lateral malleolar trabecular fracture and subchondral changes of the superior lateral talar dome are visualized.

5. You might get a computed tomography (CT) scan done should your doctor recommend a detailed evaluation of the fractures.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.

Answered byDr. Vivek Chail

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At June 5, 2018
Reviewed AtOctober 30, 2025

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