Reliability of measurements assessing the Lisfranc joint using weightbearing computed tomography imaging

Augmented Stress Weight-bearing CT for Evaluation of Subtle Lisfranc Injuries in the Elite Athlete

BACKGROUND

Lisfranc injuries refer to a disruption or displacement of the tarsometatarsal joint of the foot. Subtle Lisfranc injuries can go undiagnosed on conventional imaging leading to devastating consequences and poor functional outcomes for elite athletes. Objective. The objective of this case study is to present a novel imaging technique using weight-bearing computed tomography (CT) with enhanced stress to identify subtle, dynamically unstable Lisfranc injuries. We illustrate this with a case presentation of an elite athlete who ultimately required surgical fixation for a subtle Lisfranc injury.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

To perform an augmented stress weight-bearing CT, the patient was positioned standing, with their feet facing forward, and weight equally distributed. The patient was then coached to symmetrically raise both heels from the scanner platform. This plantarflexion provided augmented stress on the midfoot, allowing for more sensitive imaging of the Lisfranc injury. The weight-bearing CT and augmented stress images undergo 3D reconstruction and postprocessing to render coronal and sagittal images, allowing for comparison of the standard weight-bearing and augmented stress images.

RESULTS

We present the case of a 22-year-old collegiate football lineman sustaining a Lisfranc injury. The injury diagnosis was made by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and clinical examination, without evidence of injury on weight-bearing XR or standard weight-bearing CT. With augmented stress CT imaging, the Lisfranc instability was noted, leading to surgical fixation, and return to sport the next season.

CONCLUSION

We propose this technique for diagnosing subtle, unstable Lisfranc injuries where clinical suspicion persists despite inconclusive imaging, particularly in elite athletes. Further research is needed with larger sample sizes to investigate the sensitivity of this novel imaging technique for the detection of Lisfranc injury.

LEVELS OF EVIDENCE

Level 4: Case Report.

Comparison of diagnostic performance of X‑ray, CT and MRI in patients with surgically confirmed subtle Lisfranc injuries

The present study aimed to compare the diagnostic performance of three imaging tests: X-ray, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), for subtle Lisfranc injuries and three anatomical subtype injuries. The non-weight-bearing X-ray, CT and MRI imaging results of patients with subtle Lisfranc injuries from September 2013 to March 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. Subtle Lisfranc injuries and three anatomical subtypes (first, second and cuneiform rays) were diagnosed based on the surgical reports. The diagnostic performance of X-ray, CT and MRI was compared. The sensitivity (Sn), specificity (Sp), positive predictive value, negative predictive value, area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) and κ coefficient were reported. A total of 31 patients were included in the study. The correct diagnosis was made in 48.4% (15/31), 87.1% (27/31) and 96.8% (30/31) of patients by X-ray, CT and MRI, respectively. A total of 54 different anatomical injuries were found intraoperatively in all patients, with MRI and CT having high agreement (Sn, 72.2 and 87.0%; κ, 0.69 and 0.78, respectively) and X-ray having a low agreement (Sn, 29.6%; κ, 0.26) with the surgical findings. Regarding the first-ray injuries, CT had the highest Sn (76.9%), Sp (100%) and AUC (0.885) in diagnosing subtle Lisfranc injuries. MRI showed the best Sn (88.5 and 93.3%, respectively) and AUC (0.942 and 0.904, respectively) in both second and cuneiform rays. In conclusion, non-weight-bearing X-rays had poor diagnostic accuracy for subtle Lisfranc injuries and their subtypes. CT was superior to X-rays and MRI in diagnosing first-ray injuries. Although not significantly different from CT in terms of overall diagnosis, MRI was superior to X-ray and CT in diagnosing second and cuneiform-ray injuries.

Diagnostic applications and benefits of weightbearing CT in the foot and ankle: A systematic review of clinical studies

BACKGROUND

Foot and ankle weightbearing CT (WBCT) imaging has emerged over the past decade. However, a systematic review of diagnostic applications has not been conducted so far.

METHOD

A systematic literature search was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines after Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) registration. Studies analyzing diagnostic applications of WBCT were included. Main exclusion criteria were: cadaveric specimens and simulated WBCT. The Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies (MINORS) was used for quality assessment.

RESULTS

A total of 78 studies were eligible for review. Diagnostic applications were identified in following anatomical area's: ankle (n = 14); hindfoot (n = 41); midfoot (n = 4); forefoot (n = 19). Diagnostic applications that could not be used on weightbearing radiographs (WBRX) were reported in 56/78 studies. The mean MINORS was 9.8/24 (range: 8-12).

CONCLUSION

Diagnostic applications of WBCT were most frequent in the hindfoot, but other areas are on the rise. Post-processing of images was the main benefit compared to WBRX based on a moderate quality of the identified studies.

Weightbearing Computed Tomography vs Conventional Tomography for Examination of Varying Degrees of Lisfranc Injures: A Systematic Review of the Literature

Background

Lisfranc injuries, if not accurately diagnosed, can result in chronic pain and instability. Previous studies have examined ultrasonographs, radiographs, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and conventional computed tomography (CT) scan to differentiate Lisfranc instability, but they focused on a healthy/injured scale without differentiating subtle injury. Weightbearing CT (WBCT) has emerged as a diagnostic tool for detecting subtle Lisfranc injuries. This systematic review aimed to compare WBCT with conventional CT in diagnosing Lisfranc injury, and the ability to differentiate injuries of varying severities.

Methods

The review encompassed PubMed, CINAHL, MEDLINE, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science databases from inception until July 5, 2023. Inclusion criteria involved studies on CT and/or WBCT for Lisfranc injuries and nonoperative studies. Exclusion criteria composed case reports, commentaries, postoperative imaging studies, pediatric patients, studies with nonobjective radiographic measurements, studies exclusively focused on injury classification, and studies with fewer than 5 patients because of poor statistical power. Data extraction focused on radiographic measurements of the Lisfranc complex, categorized into conventional CT, partial WBCT, and total WBCT.

Results

Out of the initially retrieved 489 articles, 9 met the inclusion criteria. Several studies consistently demonstrate that WBCT provides a higher level of accuracy in measuring the Lisfranc area, offering enhanced sensitivity to detect subtle alterations in joint structure. Moreover, WBCT exhibits superior sensitivity in distinguishing between healthy Lisfranc joints and those with injuries, particularly when identifying dorsal ligament damage. This imaging modality allows for the detection of significant variations in critical measurements like first-second metatarsal (M1-M2) distance, first cuneiform (C1)-M2 distance, and joint volumes, enabling a more comprehensive assessment of Lisfranc joint health especially with subtle instability.

Conclusion

This review evaluates the extant literature on WBCT's utility in diagnosing Lisfranc injuries and compares its effectiveness to CT in distinguishing between injuries of varying severity. WBCT, with reliable measurement techniques, appears more adept at detecting subtle Lisfranc instability compared to CT, likely by allowing the assessment of injury under load.

The Emerging Role of Automation, Measurement Standardization, and Artificial Intelligence in Foot and Ankle Imaging: An Update

In the past few years, advances in clinical imaging in the realm of foot and ankle have been consequential and game changing. Improvements in the hardware aspects, together with the development of computer-assisted interpretation and intervention tools, have led to a noticeable improvement in the quality of health care for foot and ankle patients. Focusing on the mainstay imaging tools, including radiographs, computed tomography scans, and ultrasound, in this review study, the authors explored the literature for reports on the new achievements in improving the quality, accuracy, accessibility, and affordability of clinical imaging in foot and ankle.

A comparison between the Bluman et al. and the progressive collapsing foot deformity classifications for flatfeet assessment

INTRODUCTION

Bluman et al., flatfoot classification is based on posterior tibial tendon (PTT) dysfunction leading to a chronological appearance of several foot deformities. An expert consensus recently proposed a new classification named Progressive Collapsing Foot Deformity (PCFD) in which the focus was shifted to five different independent foot and ankle deformities and their flexibility or rigidity. The aim of this study was to compare Bluman and PCFD classifications. We hypothesize that both classifications will be reliable and that the PCFD classification will allow a larger distribution of the different types of foot deformity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed a retrospective IRB-approved study including 92 flatfeet. Three foot and ankle surgeons reviewed patient files and radiographs to classify each foot using both classifications. Bluman classification was performed one time as initially described and a second time after removing the Angle of Gissane sclerosis sign. Interobserver reliabilities were determined with Fleiss' kappa values.

RESULTS

Interobserver reliabilities of Bluman and PCFD classifications were, respectively, substantial 0.67 and moderate 0.55. PCFD Class C and D reliabilities were, respectively, slight 0.07 and fair 0.28. The 276 readings were spread into 10 substages in Bluman and 65 subclasses in PCFD. The progressivity of the Bluman classification prevented the combination of flexible hindfoot valgus (II Bluman, 1A PCFD), midfoot abduction (IIB, 1B) and medial column instability (IIC, 1C) which was frequent in our study (112/276 readings, 40.6%). By removing the Angle of Gissane sclerosis sign from the Bluman classification, the prevalence of stage III decreased from 44.2 to 10.1%.

CONCLUSIONS

Bluman and PCFD classifications were reliable. The PCFD classification showed a larger distribution of different types of flatfeet but Classes C and D need better definition. The progressivity of Bluman classification causes inconsistencies and Gissane angle sclerosis sign is inappropriately used and might lead to incorrect surgical indications.

Is the diagnostic validity of conventional radiography for Lisfranc injury acceptable?

BACKGROUND

Lisfranc injuries mainly involve the tarsometatarsal joint complex and are commonly misdiagnosed or missed in clinical settings. Most medical institutions prefer to use conventional radiography. However, existing studies on conventional radiographs in Lisfranc injury lack a large population-based sample, influencing the validity of the results. We aimed to determine the diagnostic validity and reliability of conventional radiography for Lisfranc injury and whether computed tomography can alter clinical decision-making.

METHODS

This retrospective study included 307 patients with, and 100 patients without, Lisfranc injury from January 2017 to December 2019. Diagnosis was confirmed using computed tomography. A senior and junior surgeon independently completed two assessments of the same set of anonymised conventional radiographs at least 3 months apart. The surgeons were then asked to suggest one of two treatment options (surgery or conservative treatment) for each case based on the radiographs and subsequently on the CT images.

RESULTS

All inter- and intra-observer reliabilities were moderate to very good (all κ coefficients > 0.4). The mean (range) true positive rate was 81.8% (73.9%-87.0%), true negative rate was 90.0% (85.0%-94.0%), false positive rate was 10.0% (6.0%-15.0%), false negative rate was 18.2% (13.0%-26.1%), positive predictive value was 96.1% (93.8%-97.8%), negative predictive value was 62.4% (51.5%-69.7%), classification accuracy was 83.8% (76.7%-88.2%), and balanced error rate was 14.1% (10.2%-20.5%). Three-column injuries were most likely to be recognized (mean rate, 92.1%), followed by intermediate-lateral-column injuries (mean rate, 81.5%). Medial-column injuries were relatively difficult to identify (mean rate, 60.7%). The diagnostic rate for non-displaced injuries (mean rate, 76.7%) was lower than that for displaced injuries (mean rate, 95.5%). The typical examples are given. A significant difference between the two surgeons was found in the recognition rate of non-displaced injuries (p = 0.005). The mean alteration rate was 21.9%; the senior surgeon tended to a lower rate (15.6%) than the junior one (28.3%) (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The sensitivity, specificity, and classification accuracy of conventional radiographs for Lisfranc injury were 81.8%, 90.0%, and 83.8%, respectively. Three-column or displaced injuries were most likely to be recognized. The possibility of changing the initial treatment decision after subsequently evaluating computed tomography images was 21.9%. The diagnostic and clinical decision-making of surgeons with different experience levels demonstrated some degree of variability. Protected weight-bearing and a further CT scan should be considered if a Lisfranc injury is suspected and conventional radiography is negative.

Correction of ankle varus deformity using patient-specific dome-shaped osteotomy guides designed on weight-bearing CT: a pilot study

BACKGROUND

Dome-shaped supramalleolar osteotomies are a well-established treatment option for correcting ankle deformity. However, the procedure remains technically demanding and is limited by a two-dimensional (2D) radiographic planning of a three-dimensional (3D) deformity. Therefore, we implemented a weight-bearing CT (WBCT) to plan a 3D deformity correction using patient-specific guides.

METHODS

A 3D-guided dome-shaped supramalleolar osteotomy was performed to correct ankle varus deformity in a case series of five patients with a mean age of 53.8 years (range 47-58). WBCT images were obtained to generate 3D models, which enabled a deformity correction using patient-specific guides. These technical steps are outlined and associated with a retrospective analysis of the clinical outcome using the EFAS score, Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) and visual analog pain scale (VAS). Radiographic assessment was performed using the tibial anterior surface angle (TAS), tibiotalar angle (TTS), talar tilt angle (TTA), hindfoot angle (HA), tibial lateral surface angle (TLS) and tibial rotation angle (TRA).

RESULTS

The mean follow-up was 40.8 months (range 8-65) and all patients showed improvements in the EFAS score, FAOS and VAS (p < 0.05). A 3-month postoperative WBCT confirmed healing of the osteotomy site and radiographic improvement of the TAS, TTS and HA (p < 0.05), but the TTA and TRA did not change significantly (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Dome-shaped supramalleolar osteotomies using 3D-printed guides designed on WBCT are a valuable option in correcting ankle varus deformity and have the potential to mitigate the technical drawbacks of free-hand osteotomies.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level 5 case series.

Does metatarsus primus elevatus really exist in hallux rigidus? A weightbearing CT case-control study

BACKGROUND

Elevated first metatarsal, Metatarsus primus elevatus (MPE), has been a topic of controversy. Recent studies have supported a significantly elevated first metatarsal in hallux rigidus on weight-bearing radiographs (WBR). However, conventional radiographs have limitations for accurate measurement. Our objective was to comparatively assess MPE and other variables which can affect the spatial relationship of the forefoot in the HR group compared to controls using weight-bearing CT (WBCT).

METHODS

In this single-center, retrospective, case-control study, 25 patients (30 feet) with symptomatic HR and 30 controls were selected. WBCT parameters were measured by two independent investigators. Inter-observer reliabilities were assessed using intra-class correlation coefficients (ICCs). MPE was evaluated by measuring the direct distance between 1st and 2nd metatarsals. Independent t tests were performed to compare the two groups. A threshold of MPE to diagnose HR was calculated using the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve.

RESULTS

HR groups had increased hallux valgus angle (HVA) (8.52° in control vs 11.98° in HR) and MPE (2.92 vs 5.09 mm), decreased 1st metatarsal declination angle (21.09° vs 19.07°) 1st/2nd metatarsal declination ratio (87.45 vs 79.71) indicating elevated first metatarsal compared to controls. Dorsal translation of the first metatarsal at the first tarsometatarsal joint was observed in 21 (70%) patients of the HR group when defined as a step-off or discontinuation of the curvature along the first TMT joint. The threshold of MPE for diagnosis of HR was 4.19 mm with 77% sensitivity and 77% specificity.

CONCLUSION

Our results confirmed a significantly elevated first metatarsal in the HR group compared to controls on WBCT. A MPE greater than 4.19 mm was found to be diagnostic for symptomatic HR. Significant number of patients in the HR group (70%) had dorsal translation of the first metatarsal at the first TMT joint which can contribute to increased MPE.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

The present study demonstrated significantly increased MPE in HR on WBCT and MPE greater than 4.19 mm on WBCT can be used as a diagnostic threshold for HR.

Prevalence and pattern of lateral impingements in the progressive collapsing foot deformity

INTRODUCTION

The prevalence of lateral bony impingements [i.e., Sinus Tarsi (STI), Talo-Fibular (TFI) and Calcaneo-Fibular (CFI)] and their association with Peritalar Subluxation (PTS) have not been clearly established for progressive collapsing foot deformity (PCFD).This study aims to assess the prevalence of STI, TFI and CFI in PCFD, in addition to their association with PTS. We hypothesized that STI and TFI would be more prevalent than CFI.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Seventy-two continuous symptomatic PCFD cases were retrospectively reviewed. Weightbearing computed tomography (WBCT) was used to assess lateral impingements and classified as STI, TFI and CFI. PTS was assessed by the percent of uncovered and the incongruence angle of the middle facet, and the overall foot deformity was determined by the foot and ankle offset (FAO). Data were collected by two fellowship-trained independent observers.

RESULTS

Intra-observer and inter-observer reliabilities for impingement assessment ranged from substantial to almost perfect. STI was present in 84.7%, TFI in 65.2% and CFI in 19.4%. PCFD with STI showed increased middle facet uncoverage (p = 0.0001) and FAO (p = 0.0008) compared to PCFD without STI. There were no differences in FAO and middle facet uncoverage in PCFD with TFI and without TFI. PCFD with CFI was associated with STI in 100% of cases. PCFD with CFI showed decreased middle facet incongruence (p = 0.04) and higher FAO (p = 0.006) compared to PCFD without CFI.

CONCLUSIONS

STI and TFI were more prevalent than CFI in PCFD. However, only STI was associated with PTS. Conversely, CFI was associated with less PTS, suggesting a different pathological mechanism which could be a compensatory subtalar behavior caused by deep layer failure of the deltoid ligament and talar tilt.

Comparing bilateral feet computed tomography scans can improve surgical decision making for subtle Lisfranc injury

INTRODUCTION

Subtle Lisfranc injuries (SLIs) are challenging to diagnose. Although weightbearing (WB) radiographs have been suggested to identify SLIs, approximately 20% are missed on initial radiographic assessment. Computed tomography (CT) has been suggested as an alternative, but has not provided any diagnostic guideline. Therefore we compared measurement techniques on radiographs and bilateral foot CT scans for the efficiency of diagnosis and making surgical decisions for SLI.

METHODS

We retrospectively investigated patients diagnosed with SLIs between January 2014 and January 2020. Distances between both medial cuneiform and second metatarsal base (C1M2), and the first and second metatarsal bases (M1M2), were measured on bilateral WB radiographs. Bilateral foot CT scans were taken, and the distances between C1M2 were checked on the axial and three points of the coronal plane (top, middle, and base). The surgical indication was > 1 mm of diastasis on CT scan. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score at final follow-up. Intraobserver and interobserver agreements were assessed.

RESULTS

Thirty patients with SLIs were reviewed. Twenty-four patients underwent surgical fixation (Group A) and six patients were treated conservatively (Group B). The side-to-side difference (STSD) of C1M2 and M1M2 distances greater than 1 mm showed 91.7% and 54.2% sensitivity, and 66.7% and 16.7% specificity, respectively. Investigating STSDs of all points on CT scans were informative to discriminate both groups (P ≤ 0.038). Clinical outcomes showed no significant difference between the groups (P = 0.631). Intraclass and interclass correlation coefficient values showed good to very good reliability, except for STSD of WB M1M2 distance and the coronal top plane.

CONCLUSION

Investigating bilateral foot CT scans was significantly efficient and reliable for the diagnosis and treatment plan for SLI. On radiographs, STSD of WB C1M2 distance was more sensitive than STSD of WB M1M2 distance.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Case control study; III.

Factors influencing postoperative residual diastasis after the operative treatment of acute Lisfranc fracture dislocation

INTRODUCTION

Clinically, surgeons may frequently encounter residual diastasis between the medial cuneiform and 2nd metatarsal base after the operative treatment of acute Lisfranc fracture dislocations. The purpose of this study was to identify factors influencing postoperative residual diastasis. We specifically focused on the preoperative fracture pattern using 3-dimensional computed tomography (3D-CT).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Radiographic and clinical findings of 66 patients who underwent operative treatment for acute Lisfranc fracture dislocation were reviewed. Patients were grouped according to residual diastasis evaluated by weight-bearing anteroposterior radiograph of the foot at the final follow-up. Residual diastasis was defined as distance between the medial cuneiform and 2nd metatarsal base greater than the distance on the contralateral side by 2 mm or more. Demographic parameters and fracture patterns based on preoperative foot 3D-CT were compared. A paired t test was used to compare continuous numeric parameters, while a Chi-square test was used for the proportional parameters. Statistical significance was set at P value less than 0.05 for all analyses.

RESULTS

The mean age at operation, sex, body mass index, and the rate of underlying diabetes were not significantly different between the two groups (P > 0.05 each). Preoperative foot 3D-CT evaluation showed that the rate of large (> 25% of 2nd tarsometatarsal joint involvement), displaced (> 2 mm) fracture fragments on the plantar side of the 2nd metatarsal base was more pronounced in the group with residual diastasis (P = 0.001), while medial wall avulsion of the 2nd metatarsal base was more frequent in the group without residual diastasis (P = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

While treating acute Lisfranc injuries, surgeons should be aware of the presence of a 2nd metatarsal base plantar fracture. A dorsoplantar inter-fragmentary fixation can be considered if the fragment is large and displaced.

Reliability of various diastasis measurement methods on weightbearing radiographs in patients with subtle Lisfranc injuries

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the reliability of the diastasis measurements between the medial cuneiform and the second metatarsal on weightbearing radiography.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively examined 18 patients who underwent open surgery for subtle Lisfranc injuries. Preoperative weightbearing radiography of the affected and unaffected feet was evaluated in all patients. The diastasis between the medial cuneiform and the second metatarsal was measured in both feet using the following four methods: diastasis between parallel lines, distal point diastasis, middle point diastasis, and proximal point diastasis. Intraclass correlation coefficients with consistency of agreement were calculated to evaluate inter- and intraobserver reliability.

RESULTS

The intra- and interobserver reliabilities of all four methods were good. Intraclass correlation coefficients for intraobserver reliability ranged from 0.87 to 0.93. Those for interobserver reliability ranged from 0.81 to 0.91.

CONCLUSIONS

The reliabilities of the diastasis measurement methods between the medial cuneiform and the second metatarsal on weightbearing radiography were good. Measuring the diastasis between the medial cuneiform and the second metatarsal on weightbearing radiography is useful in evaluating subtle injuries when uniform measurement methods are used.

Early results and complication rate of the LapiCotton procedure in the treatment of medial longitudinal arch collapse: a prospective cohort study

INTRODUCTION

Instability/collapse of the medial column has been associated with many conditions, particularly progressive collapsing foot deformity (PCFD), hallux valgus (HV), and midfoot arthritis (MA). Restoration of first ray length and sagittal plane alignment to restore the foot tripod is essential when treating these deformities. This study aimed to assess early results, healing, and complication rate of a distraction dorsal opening plantarflexion wedge allograft first tarsometatarsal joint fusion (LapiCotton Procedure) in patients with collapse/instability of the medial column.

METHODS

In this prospective cohort study, we included PCFD, HV, and MA patients that underwent a LapiCotton procedure. Fusion site healing was defined by > 50% bone bridging in both interfaces between allograft wedge and host bone using weight-bearing computed tomography (WBCT) after 3 months. First ray collapse radiographic correction and minor and major complications (deep dehiscence, deep infection, and reoperation) were assessed.

RESULTS

A total of 22 patients (22 feet) were included (11 PCFD, 6 MA, and 5 of HV patients). Mean follow-up was 5.9 months (range 3-12) and median allograft size was 8 mm (range 5-19 mm). Bone healing was observed in 91% of cases. Two minor complications (9%, both superficial dehiscence) and one major complication (4.5%, deep infection) were observed. Statistically significant improvement of the sagittal plane talus-first metatarsal angle was observed, with mean improvement of 9.4° (95% CI 6.7-12.1°; p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

In this prospective cohort study of 22 patients treated with the LapiCotton procedure for medial longitudinal arch collapse/instability, we observed a low complication rate (9% minor, 4.5% major), high healing rate after 3 months (91%), one clinically stable radiographic non-union (4.5%) and one unstable non-union (4.5%) needing reoperation. Our results demonstrate promising initial results for LapiCotton technique in treating collapse of the medial longitudinal arch in patients with PCFD, MA and HV deformities. Long-term results are needed to confirm these promising results.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level II, prospective cohort study.

The Lisfranc Injury: A Literature Review of Anatomy, Etiology, Evaluation, and Management

Despite being first described in the 1800s, the Lisfranc injury remains one of the most controversial topics in foot and ankle surgery. From the basic anatomy of the ligament complex to the optimal diagnostic and management methods, new research both sharpens and yet confounds our understanding of this unique injury. This article reviews the literature from established and classic papers to recent studies evaluating newer techniques. We discuss the unique bony and ligamentous anatomy, which confer strength to the Lisfranc complex, the typical mechanisms of injury, the most common classification systems, the clinical presentation, current imaging modalities, and conservative and surgical treatment options. We review studies comparing open reduction and internal fixation with primary arthrodesis of acute injuries, in addition to studies evaluating the various methods for obtaining fixation, including intra-articular screws, dorsal plates, and flexible fixation. It is clear from this review that despite the vast number of studies in the literature, much is still to be learned about the diagnosis and management of this challenging injury.Levels of Evidence: Level V: Expert opinion.

[Unstable injuries of the deltoid ligament complex in ankle fractures : How to diagnose, how to treat?]

Unstable injuries of the deltoid ligament complex can have a substantial negative effect on the prognosis and treatment of ankle injuries. Lesions of the deltoid ligament are often overlooked at the initial presentation, both as isolated ruptures and in combination with more complex injuries of the ankle. Neglected unstable injuries of medial ankle ligaments may result in chronic instability, especially following correct treatment of fractures and lateral ligament injuries. These are accompanied by reduced ankle mobility, persisting pain, reduced load bearing and osteoarthritis. Despite the possible subsequent damage, the need for surgical repair of the deltoid ligament in patients with ankle fractures is controversially discussed. Although in most cases of ligament injuries of the upper ankle joint conservative treatment leads to very good results, there is increased interest in acute surgical treatment particularly for unstable injuries in order to avoid secondary instability and the associated sequelae. When surgical treatment should be given priority over conservative treatment has not yet been sufficiently clarified. This article gives an overview of the diagnosis and treatment of injuries of the deltoid ligament complex in patients with ankle fractures based on the current literature.