[Acute ligamentous injuries of the Chopart and Lisfranc joint line]

The foot is a complex structure with numerous articular surfaces. As there are many potential complications (severe edema, compartment syndrome of the intrinsic foot musculature, bone and soft tissue necrosis, joint abnormalities, limitation of movement, deformities, etc.), traumatic surgeons must have a detailed knowledge of the relevant functional anatomy and treatment procedures. If there are multiple injuries, in the context of management, early definitive treatment for the injury is to be stressed. One requirement is an exact clinical and radiological diagnosis. As a rule, closed reduction is therapeutically successful. In a stable injury, immobilization can be achieved with a cast; in open wounds and malalignment of joint surfaces, an operative procedure is indicated. Particular attention must be paid to injuries of the tarsal bones in children to avoid delayed failure of growth, as the results of radiological investigations are often difficult to interpret. The diagnosis, techniques of management, and principles of follow-up are presented.