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Nutcracker fracture of the cuboid: a case report
Abraham Manoj-Thomas1,2, A Gadgil3
1The Department of Trauma and Orthopaedics, University Hospital of Wales, CF14 4XW, Cardiff, UK. dramtom@yahoo.co.uk.
Summary
A rare nutcracker fracture of the cuboid, typically from forefoot abduction, was successfully treated using ligamentotaxis and Kirschner wires. This simple method led to full recovery and return to work for the patient.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic surgery
- Traumatology
- Foot and ankle surgery
Background:
- Nutcracker fracture of the cuboid is an uncommon injury.
- It typically results from forced abduction of the forefoot against a fixed hindfoot.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a case of cuboid nutcracker fracture.
- To describe a novel treatment approach using ligamentotaxis and Kirschner wires.
- To evaluate the efficacy of this treatment in a patient with this rare injury.
Main Methods:
- The patient, a 58-year-old male, sustained a nutcracker fracture of the cuboid.
- Treatment involved applying the principle of ligamentotaxis to maintain fracture alignment.
- The position was secured using Kirschner wires for five weeks.
Main Results:
- The patient experienced an uncomplicated recovery.
- Good ankle and subtalar joint mobility were preserved.
- Full return to his previous occupation was achieved within five months post-injury.
Conclusions:
- Ligamentotaxis combined with Kirschner wire fixation offers a simple and effective treatment for nutcracker fractures of the cuboid.
- This approach can lead to excellent functional outcomes and rapid return to work.
- This case highlights a potentially valuable management strategy for this rare orthopedic injury.
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