Tarsometatarsal (Lisfranc's) injuries--results of open reduction and internal fixation

Injuries of the tarsometatarsal (Lisfranc's) joint are uncommon and are potentially associated with chronic disability. The aim of our study was to review retrospectively the results of open reduction with Kirschner wire internal fixation of tarsometatarsal injuries. In this study, 12 patients with Lisfranc's injuries treated between January 1986 and March 1993 were reviewed at an average of 36 months after the injuries. Majority of the patients suffered from type B injuries (Hardcastle's classification, 1982). There were 9 closed and 3 open injuries. All were high energy injuries sustained in motor vehicle accidents, fall from a height or crush force. All were treated with open reduction and internal fixation with Kirschner wires. Anatomical reduction was achieved and maintained. There was no postoperative redisplacement. During follow-up, most patients developed radiological evidence of post-traumatic osteoarthritic changes. However, majority of the patients were pain-free or had very little foot pain, and were able to return to their previous occupation. Our study showed that open reduction with Kirschner wire internal fixation offered satisfactory anatomical and functional results.