[Tarsometatarsal injuries--an often neglected entity]

Tarsometatarsal dislocations or fracture dislocations represent infrequent, but severe injuries which endanger the structural and mechanical integrity of the midfoot if the diagnosis is missed initially. Delayed diagnosis may result in painful and disabling arthritis and the need for salvage reconstructive surgery. As such, the rationale of treatment should follow the principles of reconstruction of weight-bearing joint injuries. The degree of instability and dislocation will guide the decision for surgical intervention and anatomic reconstruction. As the clinical features of Lisfranc injuries are rarely conclusive an adequate radiographic examination of the foot employing three standard projections (dorso-plantar, lateral and 45 degrees oblique) usually supplemented by CT scans and/or MRI is decisive for a correct analysis of the injury components and an optimum selection of treatment options. Anatomic reduction and alignment are prerequisites for a good functional outcome. The reduction of the second metatarsal ray is the keystone and the first step of surgical reconstruction followed by the other structures involved. Since adequate stability is needed until definite healing has taken place the temporary transfixation of the corresponding tarsometatarsal joints employing small fragment positioning screws has substantial advantages compared with the traditional temporary K-wire arthrodesis.