Lisfranc injury

A Lisfranc injury, sometimes referred to as a Lisfranc fracture, is a type of foot injury that involves a displacement or fracture of one or more of the metatarsal bones from the tarsus, a cluster of seven articulating bones in each foot situated between the lower end of the tibia and fibula of the lower leg and the metatarsus. It is a serious injury that can affect a person's mobility and quality of life.

LisFranc

Lisfranc ligaments

Historical Background

The injury is named after Jacques Lisfranc de St. Martin (2 April 1790-13 May 1847), a French surgeon and gynecologist. Lisfranc first documented this type of injury in 1815, when he observed the fracture pattern among cavalrymen during the War of the Sixth Coalition. The injury often occurred when riders fell from their horses but their feet remained stuck in the stirrups.

Clinical Presentation

Lisfranc injuries can vary from simple to complex, involving many joints and bones in the midfoot. A patient with a Lisfranc injury may experience symptoms such as swelling and pain at the top of the foot, inability to bear weight, bruising on the bottom of the foot, and tenderness to touch.

Diagnosis

A physical examination, along with imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI, are typically used to diagnose Lisfranc injuries. The key to a successful outcome is early detection and treatment. However, due to the complexity of the midfoot anatomy and the subtle nature of some Lisfranc injuries, these injuries are often missed on initial evaluation.

Treatment

Treatment of a Lisfranc injury depends on the severity of the injury. Non-displaced injuries can often be treated non-operatively with casting and non-weight bearing. Displaced injuries often require surgery to realign the joints and restore the normal foot anatomy. Surgery typically involves internal fixation with screws and plates, and in some cases, fusion of the affected joints.

See also

• Foot injuries
• Fractures
• Orthopedic surgery

Lisfranc injury Resources
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