Conventional radiography, CT, and MR imaging in patients with hyperflexion injuries of the foot: diagnostic accuracy in the detection of bony and ligamentous changes.

OBJECTIVE

The goal of this study was to compare the capabilities of conventional radiography, CT, and MR imaging in revealing ligamentous and bony changes in patients after hyperflexion injuries.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Forty-nine patients with hyperflexion injuries of the foot were included in our study. Conventional radiography, weight-bearing radiography, CT, and MR imaging were performed. All images were reviewed with respect to ligamentous and bony abnormalities and alignment alterations. Eleven patients with joint malalignment underwent surgery, which is considered the gold standard in these patients. Five patients with joint malalignment refused surgery.

RESULTS

For all 49 patients, conventional radiographs revealed 33 metatarsal and 20 tarsal fractures. Eight patients presented with tarsometatarsal joint (Lisfranc's joint) malalignment. Weight-bearing radiographs showed joint malalignment in the same eight patients only. CT showed 41 tarsal fractures and 53 metatarsal fractures. Joint malalignment was evident in 16 patients. MR imaging revealed 41 metatarsal fractures and 18 metatarsal bone bruises. Tarsal bones were fractured at 39 sites and there were nine tarsal bone bruises. Metatarsal fractures were mostly localized in the second metatarsal bone; tarsal fractures, in the cuboid. Joint malalignment was evident in 16 patients; in 11 of these 16 patients, Lisfranc's ligament was disrupted. Surgery confirmed bony and ligamentous changes and joint malalignment in 11 patients.

CONCLUSION

Conventional radiographs including weight-bearing images are not sufficient for routine diagnostic workup of patients with acute hyperflexion injuries of the foot. CT should serve as the primary imaging technique for such patients.