Steadman Clinic Foot and Ankle Specialist Discusses Open Broström Repair During National Sports Medicine Conference
Dr. C. Thomas Haytmanek, fellowship-trained orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon at The Steadman Clinic, recently served as a featured faculty member at the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine (AOSSM) Annual Meeting, where he participated in a debate on the surgical management of chronic lateral ankle instability.
During a case-based debate featuring a 36-year-old professional ballerina with recurrent lateral ankle sprains, Dr. Haytmanek presented the position that Open Broström repair is a necessity for select patients requiring surgical stabilization. The session explored the advantages of open versus endoscopic Broström procedures, highlighting the factors surgeons consider when selecting the most appropriate treatment for athletes and highly active individuals.
Following the debate, Dr. Haytmanek joined an expert faculty panel to discuss the case and answer questions from orthopedic surgeons attending the conference.
The Broström procedure is considered the gold standard for treating chronic lateral ankle instability, particularly in patients who continue to experience repeated ankle sprains despite comprehensive rehabilitation. Ongoing discussions surrounding open and arthroscopic (endoscopic) ligament repair techniques reflect the continued evolution of foot and ankle sports medicine, as surgeons seek to optimize stability, recovery, and return-to-sport outcomes.
Dr. Haytmanek regularly treats athletes and active patients with ankle ligament injuries, chronic ankle instability, ankle sprains, and complex foot and ankle conditions. His participation as a debate faculty member at AOSSM underscores his commitment to advancing evidence-based orthopedic care and contributing to national discussions on the latest surgical techniques.
