Lisfranc Injury
Pronunciation: LIS-frank IN-jer-ee
A disruption of the tarsometatarsal joint complex in the midfoot, ranging from ligamentous sprain to fracture-dislocation.
Full Definition
A Lisfranc injury involves trauma to the tarsometatarsal joint complex, named after French surgeon Jacques Lisfranc de St. Martin who first described the amputation through this joint. These injuries can range from subtle ligamentous sprains to severe fracture-dislocations and are often missed in initial evaluations. The key stabilizing structure is the Lisfranc ligament, which connects the medial cuneiform to the base of the second metatarsal. High-energy mechanisms (motor vehicle accidents, falls) and low-energy mechanisms (sports injuries) can both cause these injuries. Proper diagnosis requires careful radiographic evaluation, and treatment may involve reduction and fixation to restore midfoot alignment and prevent long-term arthritis.
Usage
Usage note: Named after Jacques Lisfranc; capitalize as eponym. Often initially misdiagnosed due to subtle findings.
In Context
- "CT scan confirmed a Lisfranc fracture-dislocation requiring surgical fixation." — Trauma surgery consultation
- "The subtle Lisfranc injury was initially missed on plain radiographs." — Radiology review