A Clinical Study of Fracture of Neck of the Talus: 6 Cases Report

Kim, Kyung Ckul; Im, Sung Joon; Kong, Bo Seok; Bang, Bo Hyeong

Abstract

The talus is a important bone because it supports and distributes the body forces above it. The fractures of the talus are not common but the talus is a bone with unique biomechanical features and vascular supply, so the complications with avascular necrosis and tramatic arthritis are frequent and resulting disabilities are so severe that the importance of proper management is emphasized. We analyzed 6 cases of fracture-dislocation of the talus, treated at Koryo General Hospital from 1987 to 1991. The follow up period was at least 12 months. The results were as follows ; 1. Of 6 cases, all were males and almost were 3rd and 4th decade. 2. The causes were traffic accident and fall from height. 3. Associated injuries were fracture of medial malleolus, tibia and Os calcis. 4. According to modified Hawkons classification, type I was 1 case, type II and type III were 2cases and type IV was 1 case. 5. 1 case in type II was treated conservatively, and 5 cases in other types were treated operatively. 6. Complications were skin infection and necrosis in 3 cases, failure of reduction in 2 cases, avascular necrosis in 3 cases and degenerative arthritis in 2 cases. 7. Complications wlth avascular necrosis and degenerative arthritis were treated with fusion of ankle and subtalar joint with external fixator.