Injury to the tarsometatarsal joint complex.

Abstract

Tarsometatarsal joint complex fracture-dislocations may result from direct or indirect trauma. Direct injuries are usually the result of a crush and may involve associated compartment syndrome, significant soft-tissue injury, and open fracture-dislocation. Indirect injuries are often the result of an axial load to the plantarflexed foot. Midfoot pain after even a minor forefoot injury should raise suspicion; up to 20% of tarsometatarsal joint complex injuries are missed on initial examination. An anteroposterior radiograph with abduction stress may reveal subtle injury, but computed tomography is the preferred imaging modality. The goal of treatment is the restoration of a pain-free, functional foot. The preferred treatment is open reduction and internal fixation, using screw fixation for the medial three rays and Kirschner wires for the fourth and fifth tarsometatarsal joints. Satisfactory outcome can be expected in approximately 90% of patients.