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Magnetic resonance imaging of plantar plate rupture
L Yao1, A Cracchiolo, K Farahani
1Department of Radiological Sciences, UCLA Center for the Health Sciences 90095, USA.
Abstract:
Degenerative plantar plate failure is an under-recognized cause of lesser metatarsalgia. We performed magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with a small receiver coil in 13 patients in whom plantar plate ruptures of the second or third metatarsophalangeal joint were clinically suspected. In eight patients, MRI showed focal hyperintensity in the plantar plate that was interpreted as a rupture of the plate. Ruptures were confirmed in all five patients who underwent an operative procedure to treat the unstable, painful metatarsophalangeal joint. MRI is a noninvasive technique that can visualize plantar plate abnormalities and aid the clinical evaluation of problematic lesser metatarsalgia.
Insights
Degenerative plantar plate failure causes lesser metatarsalgia. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) effectively detects plantar plate ruptures, aiding diagnosis and treatment of this painful foot condition.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Radiology
- Podiatry
Background:
- Lesser metatarsalgia is often caused by degenerative plantar plate failure.
- This condition is frequently under-recognized in clinical practice.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the utility of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in diagnosing plantar plate ruptures.
- To assess MRI's role in managing lesser metatarsalgia.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 13 patients with suspected plantar plate ruptures.
- High-resolution MRI using a small receiver coil.
- Correlation of MRI findings with surgical outcomes where applicable.
Main Results:
- MRI identified plantar plate abnormalities consistent with rupture in 8 out of 13 patients.
- Surgical confirmation of rupture was achieved in all 5 patients who underwent operative procedures.
- MRI demonstrated high accuracy in detecting plantar plate tears.
Conclusions:
- Magnetic resonance imaging is a valuable noninvasive tool for visualizing plantar plate abnormalities.
- MRI can significantly aid in the clinical evaluation and diagnosis of lesser metatarsalgia due to plantar plate failure.