Lisfranc Injury

Causes of Lisfranc Injuries:

• Trauma: Lisfranc injuries often result from accidents, such as car crashes, falls from a height, or sports-related incidents.

• Overuse: In some cases, repetitive stress on the midfoot can lead to Lisfranc injuries, particularly in athletes.

Symptoms of Lisfranc Injuries:

• Pain and swelling on the top of the foot.

• Bruising on the bottom of the foot.

• Difficulty bearing weight or walking.

• Abnormal positioning of the toes.

Diagnosis:

A Lisfranc injury is typically diagnosed through a combination of physical examination by your Healthcare Practitioner using X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs. The severity of the injury will determine the appropriate treatment plan, should you require surgery, your healthcare practitioner will refer you to an Orthopaedic Surgeon.

Treatment Options:

• Non-Surgical Treatment: For mild Lisfranc injuries where the bones and ligaments are not significantly displaced, non-surgical methods may be recommended. This typically involves immobilisation of the foot in a cast or boot, rest, and sometimes physical therapy.

• Surgical Treatment: In more severe cases, especially when there is significant displacement of bones or ligament damage, surgery is often necessary to restore normal foot anatomy and function. Here are some common surgical options:

• Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF): In this procedure, the surgeon realigns the displaced bones and then uses screws, plates, or other hardware to stabilise the Lisfranc joint and promote proper healing.

• Ligament Repair or Reconstruction: If the ligaments in the Lisfranc joint are damaged, they may need to be repaired or reconstructed using grafts or sutures.

• Fusion (Arthrodesis): In cases where the joint damage is too severe, fusion may be considered. This involves permanently joining the bones of the Lisfranc joint together. While it eliminates motion in that joint, it can provide stability and pain relief.

Recovery and Rehabilitation:

After surgery, a period of immobilisation and non-weight-bearing will be necessary. Physical therapy is often an essential part of the recovery process to regain strength and mobility in the foot. The length of recovery varies depending on the severity of the injury and the type of surgery performed.

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It's important for patients to follow their surgeon's post-operative instructions carefully and attend all follow-up appointments to monitor the healing process.

 

Lisfranc injuries can have a significant impact on one's ability to walk and function properly. Surgical intervention, when necessary, aims to restore stability and function to the foot, allowing patients to return to their normal activities. It's crucial for patients to have a thorough discussion with their orthopaedic surgeon to understand the specifics of their injury and the best treatment plan for their individual case.