Posterior talofibular ligament

Last revised by Henry Knipe on 17 Nov 2022

The posterior talofibular ligament (PTFL) is one of three ligaments that compose the lateral collateral ligament complex of the ankle. When the anterior talofibular and calcaneofibular ligaments are intact, it only has a secondary role in ankle joint stability and is also the least commonly injured of the three lateral collateral ligaments. 

The PTFL is an intracapsular but extra-synovial ligament that arises from the posterior aspect of the distal fibula and courses posteromedially to insert into the lateral tubercle on the posterior aspect of the talus.

Lies deep to the peroneal retinaculum and flexor hallucis longus tendon 3

  • often appears striated or striped secondary to its fibrofatty make-up 1

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