Clinical Results after Closed Reduction and Internal Fixation for Unstable Subtle Injuries of Lisfranc Joint

Yu, Sun O; Park, Yong Wook; Kim, Joo Sung; Lee, Gi Jun

Abstract

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate retrospectively the clinical results of closed reduction and percutaneous screw fixation for unstable injuries on stress radiographs in subtle injuries of Lisfranc joint.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
From June 1997 to March 2003, 6 cases of unstable injuries on stress radiograph in subtle injuries of Lisfranc joint were treated by percutaneous cannulated screw fixation after closed reduction. All cases were injuried by indirect force (twisting injury). The average diastasis between the 1st and 2nd metatarsal base was 3 mm (2-4 mm) on initial nonweight bearing AP radiograph. The average follow-up period was 20 months. Clinical evaluation was assessed according to the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) midfoot score.
RESULTS
The AOFAS midfoot score was average 86 (80-90) points. The average diastasis between 1st and 2nd metatarsal base was 2 mm (1-3 mm) on weight bearing AP radiograph in final follow up. The final diastasis was increased slightly than diastasis in initial postoperative radiographs. But the clinical results were good. There was no correlation between the degree of diastasis and the clinical results. On weight bearing lateral radiograph, the average difference with normal foot in the distance between plantar aspect of 5th metatarsus and medial cuneiform was 2 mm (0-3 mm). One case had mild arthritic change on the radiographs
CONCLUSION
When the Lisfranc injuries, especially in the subtle injuries were suspicious, the stress views are helpful to assess stability of the Lisfranc injuries and planning of treatment. For unstable injuries on stress radiographs in subtle injuries of Lisfranc joint, closed reduction and percutaneous screw fixation is useful method to expect good clinical results.