Management of Fractures

Lisfranc Injury

Lisfranc Injuries (Tarsometatarsal Injuries) are uncommon fractures or dislocations of the midfoot that typically occur during a fall or twisting motion. They can be misdiagnosed as a ‘sprain’. These injuries present with pain and swelling on the top of the foot and often bruising on the bottom of the foot.

Non-operative treatment such as plaster immobilisation is not ideal and can lead to increased risk of post traumatic midfoot arthritis.

There are a number of surgical procedures used to treat a Lisfranc fracture. Surgery allows the anatomy of the midfoot to be reconstructed. Typically these fractures are treated with inserting screws or plates.

Post op, the patient will be placed in a cast and non-weight bearing and the cast remains on for a period of 6 weeks. The patient will then be placed into a CAM boot enabling full weight bearing for a further 4-6 weeks. After this time, a solid supportive soled shoe with an insole will be worn.

Tibial Plafond fractures

There are various different methods used to treat these fractures and the type of surgery is determined on an individual basis. This fracture involves the ankle joint and can involve the joint surface. These must be treated surgically to help minimise the risk of deformity, pain and arthritis.

Calcaneal Fractures

Calcaneal fractures are commonly sustained from high impact activity such as a fall from a height or sporting injuries. The majority of these injuries require surgical intervention to reposition and realign the bone to aid in prevention of arthritis, pain and deformity.