Dislocations and fracture dislocations of the tarsometatarsal joints

Dislocations and fracture-dislocations of the tarsometatarsal joints are potentially disabling injuries that present challenging therapeutic problems. Early recognition is imperative and is based on a familiarity with the important anatomic features of this joint, mechanism of injury, and subtle radiographic changes that often accompany these lesions. Following injury, a precise anatomic reduction of the tarsometatarsal joint is critical if long-term disability is to be avoided. There appears to be a direct correlation between achieving an accurate reduction and a satisfactory clinical result. In our experience, surgical reduction offers the most effective and reliable means of achieving this goal. We have presented an approach for the management of these lesions, which we believe offers advantages over previously described techniques. Our experience has shown that accurate anatomic operative reduction and rigid internal fixation provide an increased assurance of a pain-free, durable, and functional foot in the great majority of cases.