Either is acceptable. Lateral radiograph shows linear break in medial plantar process (arrow). . However, radiography remains the principal imaging modality for evaluating trauma to the calcaneus, the most frequently fractured tarsal bone. The patient placed an MR-compatible marker on skin overlying site of focal pain. Keywords: avulsion, calcaneus, foot, fracture, ligament, plantar fascia, tendon. Sagittal T1-weighted MR image shows small fragment of bone (straight arrow) arising from anterior calcaneus process corresponding to type 1 fracture. Epidemiology The calcaneus is the most commonly fractured tarsal bone and accounts for about 2% of all fractures 2 and ~60% of all tarsal fractures 3. The mechanisms of injuries include overuse and neuropathic conditions, although most cases are related to trauma. Portion of bifurcate ligament is shown (curved arrow). The plantar fascia is a dense connective tissue band that resides in the inferior aspect of the foot and is composed of three cords: medial, central, and lateral cords. Adapted with permission from Lee et al. 11B 28-year-old male hockey player with twisting injury. An avulsion fracture is caused by tension on the bifurcate ligament during forceful inversion and plantar flexion of the foot. "Calcaneal avulsion fractures: an often forgotten diagnosis." American Journal of . 10). Frontal Oblique Lateral X-ray Frontal Thin bony fragments adjacent to the lateral aspect of tip of the lateral malleolus and cortical irregularity at the lateral talus, likely representing avulsion fractures. 7B 25-year-old man who fell while skiing. We will review talar fractures, calcaneal, midfoot fractures. Most avulsion fractures occur at the attachments of the dorsal calcaneocuboid ligament (Fig. Proximal aspect of ligament can be visualized to its calcaneal attachment. Radiology 1996;199:1-12. . Calcaneal fractures are the most common tarsal fracture and can occur in a variety of settings. 9). A, Lateral radiograph shows fracture (straight arrow) through enthesophyte emanating from medial plantar process. A Salter 3 fracture of the apophysis in a skeletally immature patient may mimic Sever disease when it is not significantly displaced [15]. Thickening and increased signal intensity are seen indicating underlying tendinosis. Avulsion may occur from sudden tension on the Achil- Typically, type I and type II fractures can be managed with plaster cast immobilization with surgery intended for symptomatic patients only; conversely, type III fractures are managed with open reduction -internal fixation (ORIF) as they have a higher rate of malunion/non-union 4. Fig. Calcaneal Avulsion Fractures: An Often Forgotten Diagnosis. King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center. It is actually a Salter-Harris type IV. Abstract. B, Sagittal STIR MR image shows avulsion of central cord of plantar fascia with perifascicular edema (arrow) as well as bone edema surrounding bone defect. Distally, the tendon has a concave anterior and convex posterior surface tapering to its broad enthesis on the calcaneus located at the middle third of the posterior surface of the calcaneal tuberosity. Massen F, Baumbach S, Herterich V, Bcker W, Waizy H, Polzer H. Fractures to the Anterior Process of the Calcaneus - Clinical Results Following Functional Treatment. 2019;50(10):1781-6. 1. A, Close-up of oblique view of foot shows linear piece of bone (arrow) just proximal to calcaneocuboid joint. {"url":"/signup-modal-props.json?lang=us\u0026email="}, Asiri Y, Calcaneal tuberosity avulsion fracture. Always re-review available x-rays when reading an MRI to detect subtle osseous defects and improve your awareness. Type 1 fractures are likely insufficiency fractures, occurring in elderly patients with osteoporosis after minor trauma such as tripping. In these patients, the fracture occurs without a history of significant trauma or overuse activity. Figure 1 Left lateral ankle . Andermahr et al. References Ng J, Rosenberg Z, Bencardino J, Restrepo-Velez Z, Ciavarra G, Adler R. US and MR Imaging of the Extensor Compartment of the Ankle. Fig. Calcaneus Fracture (Broken Heel) Treatment. There is small linear bone fragment located lateral to calcaneocuboid joint (curved arrow). This ossicle is referred to as os calcaneus secundarius and is differentiated from fracture by lack of donor site in calcaneus. Copyright 2013-2020, American Roentgen Ray Society, ARRS, All Rights Reserved. The calcaneus is the largest bone in the foot and serves as the primary weight bearing structure in the heel. Fractures involving the anterior process are not as common as other fractures in the ankle but they are not rare, occurring in as many as 5% of patients with ankle fractures [2426]. Fig. CONCLUSION. Use secondary code (s) from Chapter 20, External causes of morbidity, to indicate cause of injury. The lateral talar process is one of the check areas on an ankle series for any patient with lateral pain. Tap on the below button when you are Online. Fig. Pitfalls in Shoulder MRI: Part 1Normal Anatomy and Anatomic Variants, Perspective. Fig. Although these articles do not have all bibliographic details available yet, they can be cited using the year of online publication and the DOI as follows: Please consult the journal's reference style for the exact appearance of these elements, abbreviation of journal names, and use of punctuation. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies. Degan T, Morrey B, Braun D. Surgical Excision for Anterior-Process Fractures of the Calcaneus. Diabetic patient with history of foot trauma. Heterogeneous echogenicity of the distal achilles tendon and tendinosis / partial tearing of the distal achilles tendon are seen near the calcaneal attachment. Case Discussion Tiny avulsion fracture from the lateral margin of the calcaneus. It forms the anterior facet superiorly and the calcaneocuboid joint anteriorly. When the fracture is imaged sequentially, distraction and fragmentation are common later findings. B, 30-year-old man who did not have trauma. These fractures are avulsion fractions of the ossification center of the lateral condyle and as such are sometimes referred to as a lateral epicondyle fracture and sometimes as a lateral epicondyle avulsion fracture. Another clinical and radiographic pitfall may be a small avulsion fracture of the EDB insertion; however, in our experience, even small EDB fracture fragments contain more bone than just the cortex so they do not have the typical linear appearance of a calcaneocuboid ligament avulsion fracture. After perfecting the examination (routine blood test, coagulation function, electrocardiogram and lung CT) and eliminating the contraindications for surgery, we performed surgery on the patient. 8B Type 1 fracture versus os calcaneus secundarius in two patients. 1 Calcaneal anatomy. I or related party have no financial relationship to disclose. 4); and type 4, small beak fracture avulsed from the deep fibers of the tendon [9, 10]. The margins of this joint should be closely inspected for fractures in patients who have an inversion or plantar flexion injury of the foot or forced adduction injury of the forefoot. In contradistinction to the . This fracture is named triplane because it occurs in the coronal, sagittal and axial plane. A few specific points: small avulsion fractures may be quite subtle and easily missed on x-ray. . Bone lysis at the enthesis may be the only finding in many cases (Fig. Reload page. Fig. In 1931, Bhler described the first comprehensive calcaneal fracture classification scheme with eight fracture patterns based on plain radiographs, proposing two major groups: intraarticular and extraarticular . [9]). American Journal of Radiology, September 2009, Vol. 10B 21-year-old male basketball player who inverted his foot and had pain laterally. Calcaneus fractures are the most common fractured tarsal bone and are associated with a high degree of morbidity and disability. This case is unusual because it is the calcaneal attachment of the CFL which is avulsed. Occasionally, the middle and anterior subtalar joints form a contiguous articulation instead of two discrete joints. B, Axial proton-density MR image shows that avulsion occurred distally at cuboid attachment manifested as gap (arrow) between ligament and cuboid. Chronic lateral ankle pain with other cause: MRI . 11). It is hypothesized that the latter are more common at slower injury velocity and of a bipolar age distribution (more common in young and elderly patients) 1. 205 (5): 1061-7. Diabetic patients are at risk of developing insufficiency avulsion fractures of the calcaneal tuberosity with minor trauma or even without a significant history of trauma. Skin incision: lateral approach to elbow. It is the initial striking surface of the foot during ambulation. 4, this injury can be classified into three types: type I: non-displaced avulsion fractures with no calcaneocuboid joint involvement, type II: displaced fractures but still no calcaneocuboid joint involvement, type III: displaced fractures with calcaneocuboid joint involvement, ADVERTISEMENT: Supporters see fewer/no ads. In general, impaction fractures tend to be larger than avulsion fractures. A, Frontal radiograph shows swelling in lateral foot with its epicenter just proximal to base of fifth metatarsal bone (straight arrow). MRI of Ankle and Lateral Hindfoot Impingement Syndromes. Calcaneal fractures are relatively uncommon, comprising 1 to 2 percent of all fractures, but important because they can lead to long-term disability. Therefore, when reading ankle radiographs, care must be taken not to mistake a thin avulsed fragment with vascular calcifications, which are commonly observed in diabetic patients. Frontal and oblique foot radiographs, not ankle radiographs, are most optimal for showing these fractures, which characteristically appear as variably small linear cortical fragments that rotate when the joint distracts. Careful scrutiny of the cortex is necessary for making the diagnosis. decreased ankle plantarflexion strength with avulsion fractures. Typically, avulsion injuries involving the ATFL and CFL result in fracture of the fibular tip. CONCLUSION. According to Degan et al. 8A Type 1 fracture versus os calcaneus secundarius in two patients. The mechanisms of injuries include overuse and neuropathic conditions, although most cases are related to trauma. Type 1 is simple avulsion with variable sized bone fragment, type 2 is beak fracture with horizontal fracture extending into posterior body, type 3 is avulsion by superficial fibers of middle third of Achilles tendon, and type 4 is small beak fracture avulsed from deep fibers of tendon. We will spend a time to discuss base of fifth fractures, stress fractures and sesamoid pathology. The proximal attachment of the bifurcate ligament, an important stabilizer in plantar and dorsal flexion of the ankle, attaches to this process. The joint space is preserved. In this article, we will show the characteristic appearance and location of these fractures, discuss the mechanisms responsible for these injuries, and illustrate potential pitfalls to consider. The width of the tendon at its insertion varies from 1.2 to 2.5 cm [5]. [1] Symptoms may include pain, bruising, trouble walking, and deformity of the heel. Calcaneus. The characteristic radiographic appearance is a small fleck of bone separated from the donor site in the inferior surface of the calcaneal tuberosity or a break in the medial process cortex (Fig. 1982;64(4):519-24. Avulsion fractures are uncommon. The primary fracture line is parallel to the apophyseal scar, and the fracture affects the superior cortex but not always the inferior cortex. 10 public playlists include this case Cas 100-200 by isabelle MSK by Mix MI by Albert Guillemette Paeds Ankle Gamuts by Dr John Karpewycz Injury. B, Sagittal T1-weighted MR image obtained 6 weeks after injury shows thickened Achilles tendon. If the lateral view is equivocal, an oblique projection of the foot may be diagnostic [24]. Anteriorly, the calcaneus is entirely covered with cartilage forming the surface that articulates with the cuboid. Greenspan A. This true Jones fracture should be distinguished from the more common avulsion type fracture of the fifth metatarsal tuberosity which has a much better prognosis. The two mechanisms of injury that result in a fracture of the anterior calcaneal process are compression or impaction forces and extreme tensile forces [29]. 2018;210(5):1123-30. Case study, Radiopaedia.org (Accessed on 11 Dec 2022) https://doi.org/10.53347/rID-62452, Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology at Washington University. Hirschmann A, Walter W, Alaia E, Garwood E, Amsler F, Rosenberg Z. CONCLUSION. Subtalar Joint(s): Intact. The morphologic features of this bone are complex, and its many different surface contours function either as attachments to tendons, muscles, and ligaments or as sites of articulations. The EDB avulsion fracture may also be mistakenly identified as an os peroneum, but the latter resides more inferiorly and is completely corticated. B, Foot radiograph shows that fragment of bone (arrow) is located in dorsal and lateral region of anterior calcaneal body. The cause is strong muscular contraction with the heel fixed to the ground and occurs only in a subset of patients who have a broad and extensive tendinous insertion [9]. The case shows superior extensor retinaculum injury, grade I injuries of lateral ankle ligaments, and avulsion fracture of the anterior calcaneal process. Fractures of the tu-berosity are either from an avulsion or shear-compression mechanism of injury, with the latter constituting most fractures. Check for errors and try again. The calcaneus is the primary weight bearing bone in the heel, and its many surface contours render it a relatively difficult bone to visualize in its entirety. Talonavicular Joint: Mild degenerative changes. Recognition and Treatment. Please wait while the data is being loaded.. Visit https://www.ajronline.org/pairdevice on your desktop computer. This is the American ICD-10-CM version of S92.03 - other international versions of ICD-10 S92.03 may differ. {"url":"/signup-modal-props.json?lang=us\u0026email="}, Gilcrease-Garcia B, Calcaneofibular avulsion fracture. Avulsion fractures of the calcaneal tuberosity are rare injuries that commonly occur in elderly or osteoporotic patients ( 3 ). Lateral. 4. [1] It may be associated with breaks of the hip or back. (Drawings by Yu JS). Calcaneal stress fractures [Figures 17 - 20] are nearly as common as metatarsal stress fractures. Once considered rare, avulsion fracture occurring at the calcaneocuboid joint is an important cause of persistent pain in the lateral aspect of the foot [40]. Axial loading of the foot following a fall from a height is the most common mechanism for severe calcaneal fractures. Occasionally, the fibular trochlea may present with a separated ossification center appearing similar to a fracture on an ankle radiograph but appearing completely corticated on a frontal foot radiograph [35]. However, 25% of fractures in adults are extraarticular, and the incidence is even higher in children [2, 3]. The calcaneocuboid joint is a large lateral joint in the midfoot. Avulsion fractures of the calcaneus are often difficult to diagnose, but they occur in very specific locations, with characteristic radiographic appearances. 2. The anterior part of the calcaneus is tapered distally. 3. Fig. A, Frontal 3D CT image of calcaneus in cadaver shows shelflike prominence of medial plantar process (arrow) where central and lateral cords of plantar fascia inserts. Reference article, Radiopaedia.org (Accessed on 11 Dec 2022) https://doi.org/10.53347/rID-90885. (2007) The American journal of sports medicine. You can use Radiopaedia cases in a variety of ways to help you learn and teach. . This is foot trauma. The 2022 edition of ICD-10-CM S92.03 became effective on October 1, 2021. Note saucerlike defect in inferior aspect of calcaneus from bone lysis (curved arrow). The stabilizing ligaments that hold the calcaneus in place occupy very specific locations, and the Achilles tendon enthesis is in a relatively constant location; therefore, avulsion fractures occur in reproducible locations. Fractures in the medial process of the calcaneus may occur as a result of compressive or tensile forces. Small fluid in the retrocalcaneal region and diffuse subcutaneous edema are seen. A compressive fracture occurs by impaction of the anterior process from the cuboid and talus during eversion and dorsiflexion, which is referred to as a nutcracker lesion, or by forceful abduction of the forefoot with the heel fixed to the ground [30, 31]. The calcaneus is the most commonly fractured tarsal bone and accounts for about 2% of all fractures 2 and ~60% of all tarsal fractures 3. Avulsion may occur from sudden tension on the Achilles tendon from falling on a plantarflexed foot when the calf muscles are actively contracted, hyperextension of the ankle, or while pushing off a dorsiflexed foot such as in a sprinter beginning a race. 7A 25-year-old man who fell while skiing. J Am Podiatry Assoc. Nondisplaced fractures of the cuboid without evidence of collapse of the lateral column can be managed with non-weightbearing for 4-6 weeks in a short leg cast. Please Note: You can also scroll through stacks with your mouse wheel or the keyboard arrow keys. Lateral radiograph shows superiorly displaced bone fragment (curved arrow) and donor site defect in superior aspect of calcaneal tuberosity (straight arrow). Sarah M. Yu, Joseph S. Yu. Fourteen had calcaneal insufficiency avulsion (CIA . A pitfall is a normal small ossicle, the os calcaneus secondarius, which is adjacent to the anterior calcaneal process mimicking this fracture; however, these ossicles, which are seen in about 25% of the population, are completely surrounded by lamellar bone [33, 34] (Fig. MRI may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis (Fig. It begins at the midcalf level and it receives muscular fibers from three muscles: the medial and lateral heads of the gastrocnemius and the soleus muscles. B, Oblique view of foot affords another opportunity to identify fracture (arrow). This site uses cookies. Anterior calcaneal process fractures are often missed fractures of the calcaneus (up to 88% are not reported on radiographic examination of the ankle) 1leading to non-union of bone fragments, unrecognised associated ligamentous injuries, and persistent ankle or foot pain. Findings most consistent with bone contusions, subtle calcaneal avulsion fracture fragment (, approximate location of calcaneofibular ligament (, thickened, frayed distal calcaneofibular ligament (, small avulsion fractures may be quite subtle and easily missed on x-ray. Small fluid is seen. Anterior process fractures are a relatively rare occurrence, accounting for only 3% of calcaneal fractures 2. 6A 45-year-old woman who felt ripping sensation in bottom of her ankle 2 weeks ago. An accessory ossiclethe calcaneus secondarium or os calcis secondariumcan present in up to 5% of the popula-tion and is considered a mimic for an APC fracture. Often they are seen in only one of the frontal or oblique views. A potential clinical pitfall is a stress fracture of the lateral aspect of the cuboid [41]. All diabetic patients were insulin dependent for more than 5 years and had clinically evident peripheral neuropathy. With more severe hindfoot valgus and lateral calcaneal subluxation additional impingement may occur between the lateral malleolus and lateral calcaneus as depicted on the right. vascular. A pitfall is a fracture through a plantar fascia enthesophyte, which may occur as a result of either direct trauma or forceful tension on the plantar fascia. Avulsion fractures of the calcaneal tuberosity are uncommon, accounting for 1.32.7% of calcaneal fractures [9]. Learning objectives for this will include reviewing foot anatomy, x-ray evaluation, mechanisms of injury. The middle talar facet is an inclined oval surface on the roof of the sustentaculum. When the fracture extends into the joint or the normal anatomy of the heel is deformed, surgery may be necessary to restore anatomy and mobility. A, Lateral radiograph shows linear lucency (arrow) through anterior calcaneus process corresponding to type 2 fracture. Unable to process the form. The stabilizing ligaments that hold the calcaneus in place occupy very specific locations, and the Achilles tendon enthesis is in a relatively constant location; therefore, avulsion fractures occur in reproducible locations. 5A Images of medial plantar process. Diagnosis is usually confirmed by X-ray, but other diagnostic adjuncts are also used. In fact, this fracture constitutes the most common avulsion fracture affecting the calcaneus [26]. The bulbous proximal end is the calcaneal tuberosity, and it serves as the attachment of the Achilles tendon. Fig. In part, this is likely related to the regional vascular anatomy of the calcaneus [11]. FHL = flexor hallucis longus. OBJECTIVE. . Subcutaneous soft tissue edema and fatty replacement of the plantar foot muscles are noted. Fig. Diagram depicts key anatomic components of calcaneus in lateral, superior, and medial projections. Fracture of the posterior calcaneal tuberosity with avulsion of the Achilles tendon insertion, without fragment separation from the tendon. Anterior process fractures are classified into three types: type 1 fractures are small (< 1 cm) and nondisplaced, type 2 fractures have minimal (> 2 mm) displacement and no involvement of the calcaneocuboid joint, and type 3 fractures are comminuted or large with involvement the calcaneocuboid joint (> 25%) [31]. Fig. The lateral segments course distally to insert on the middle phalanges of the second through fourth toes, whereas the most medial segment forms the extensor hallucis brevis. Patients with this fracture present with pain and swelling in the dorsolateral midfoot that is similar to those who have an anterior calcaneal process fracture. It arises from the medial process of the calcaneal tuberosity and extends distally in a fanlike configuration, dividing into five distinct bands that interconnect with the plantar plates, plantar interdigital ligaments, and the sagittal septa underneath the metatarsophalangeal joints [1618]. They are generally not isolated but occur in association with the following: Plain radiography remains the primary imaging modality for assessing calcaneal trauma because the fractures of the anterior process of the calcaneus occur in precise locations with characteristic radiographic features 3. A calcaneal fracture (also termed lover's or Don Juan fracture) usually develops after a fall from height. Unable to process the form. It is seen exclusively in young adolescents in the period, when the medial tibial epiphysis is closed, while the lateral portion is still open leaving it vulnerable to injury. Typically, avulsion injuries involving the ATFL and CFL result in fracture of the fibular tip. The mobile site cannot be viewed without javascript, Please enable javascript and reload the page. Unable to process the form. Distal to the posterior subtalar joint is a depression called the calcaneal sulcus that extends medially to terminate at the sustentaculum tali. Because these fractures may be extremely difficult to detect, either CT or MRI is required to confirm the diagnosis in many cases, particularly when pain becomes chronic [23, 27, 28]. The Y-shaped ligament with its two components, the calcaneonavicular and calcaneocuboid limbs, is at its greatest tension when the ankle is inverted and plantar flexed [23]. 6B 45-year-old woman who felt ripping sensation in bottom of her ankle 2 weeks ago. Fluid in the retrocalcaneal and retroachillealbursae are noted suggestive of traumatic bursitis. Fig. An avulsion fracture occurs when a small chunk of bone attached to a tendon or ligament gets pulled away from the main part of the bone. The stabilizing ligaments that hold the calcaneus in place occupy very specific locations, and the Achilles tendon enthesis is in a relatively constant location; therefore, avulsion fractures occur in reproducible locations. The EDB muscle is broad and thin. Obtaining weight bearing films at two weeks post injury will detect occult ligamentous injuries. Weight-bearing can be advanced as pain subsides. Yu S & Yu J. Calcaneal Avulsion Fractures: An Often Forgotten Diagnosis. Avulsion fractures of the calcaneal tuber-osity are uncommon, accounting for 1.3-2.7% of calcaneal fractures [9]. Figure 2 Lateral X-ray of the calcaneus, the avulsion fracture of the calcaneal tuberosity was displaced again, and the internal fixation failed. 10A 21-year-old male basketball player who inverted his foot and had pain laterally. The function of this muscle is to extend the first through fourth toes and the respective metatarsophalangeal joints. A lateral radiograph of the ankle offers the most optimal opportunity for identifying the fracture, which characteristically appears vertically through the process (Fig. 2 Classification for calcaneal avulsion fractures. The fracture is best depicted on the anteroposterior projection of the ankle or the frontal projection of the foot, and it characteristically appears as variably sized fragments of bone arising from the dorsolateral aspect of the anterior calcaneus (Fig. Duddy R, Donahue W, Cavolo D. Anterior Calcaneal Process Fractures. Find the code on the page and enter it above. Radiology 1991; 180:725 - 9. Fractures of the calcaneus are divided into two types, noncompressive and compression. The stabilizing ligaments that hold the calcaneus in place occupy very specific locations, and the Achilles tendon enthesis is in a relatively constant location; therefore, avulsion fractures occur in reproducible locations. assess for neuologic compromise due to swelling. B, 27-year-old male baseball player with acute heel pain after pushing off base while accelerating. High grade "sprain" injuries consist of either intrasubstance ligament rupture, or small avulsion fractures at the ligamentous insertions. Fig. AJR Am J Roentgenol. In type 2 beak fractures, the tendinous attachment is more proximal than classically seen so that the avulsion involves only the proximal half of the tuberosity or because there is a separate more anterior contribution to the Achilles tendon by the soleus muscle [12, 13]. The fibers of the central cord envelop the aponeurosis of the flexor digitorum brevis muscle. Twenty-one patients had diabetes mellitus, and 40 were nondiabetic. The French surgeon described two types of fracture mechanisms: an avulsion injury resulting from muscular pull and a crushing injury. A, Ankle radiograph shows rotated fragment of bone (arrow) with adjacent soft-tissue swelling that is characteristic of avulsion of attachment of extensor digitorum brevis muscle. [38] classified these injuries into four types depending on the size of fracture and angulation of the calcaneocuboid joint with stress: type 1, no fracture and an increased angle by 510; type 2, occasional fracture flake and angulation greater than 10; type 3, osseous fragment greater than 5 mm and angulation greater than 10; and type 4, compression fracture of medial cuboid and major joint distraction. A systematic evaluation of the calcaneus with attention to areas of vulnerability will assist those who interpret ankle and foot radiographs in maintaining a high diagnostic accuracy for these fractures. Types 3 and 4 fractures occur in younger people and require more-severe trauma. There are four types of avulsion fractures (Fig. Focal marrow edema and a matching tiny T1 hypointensity of the lateral calcaneus near the peroneal tubercle indicate the donor site, posterior talofibular and syndesmotic ligaments intact, marrow edema along anterior cuboid and talus, although without discrete T1 hypointensity. There is heterogeneous signal intensity within tendon and focus of low signal intensity (straight arrow) approximately 5 cm above enthesis. Of the two types, avulsion fractures generally are more difficult to identify but are quite specific in their locations. It has two smaller inferior tubercles, the medial and lateral processes. 8). Check for errors and try again. 4B 43-year-old man who fell off horse and experienced pain and bruising in back of ankle. Maneuvers that adduct the forefoot exacerbate pain. Fig. focal soft tissue swelling overlying lateral ankle, small avulsion fracture fragment located in the fibular-calcaneal interval (only evident on AP view), anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) severely attenuated and partially ruptured with fluid along talofibular gap, consistent with at least a grade 2 sprain, thickened and lax appearance of calcaneofibular ligament (coronal T2-FS images), which can be followed inferiorly from fibular tip to a tiny avulsed fracture fragment (axial and coronal T1). Noncompressive are avulsions of the periphery of the bone: extensor digitorum brevis avulsion from the lateral aspect of the body as seen on AP views of the ankle beneath the lateral malleolus, posterior superior tuberosity (beak fracture) ( Figure 12-8 A . The smaller oval-shaped anterior facet lies on the superomedial surface of the anterior calcaneus. Incidental note of os subfibulare and os trigonum. Pathology There are three mechanisms of action 4: fall during plantarflexion ankle hyperextension feet fixed on the ground with sudden muscular contraction Associations A rupture of plantar fascia is far less common but is characterized clinically by severe focal pain inferior to the calcaneus that is associated with tenderness to palpation and an acute onset [19, 20]. CONCLUSION. 1. The Role of Imaging in Diagnosing Diseases of the Distal Radioulnar Joint, Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex, and Distal Ulna, MR Imaging of Disorders of the Achilles Tendon, Review. The structural integrity of these ligaments as well as the plantar fascia is necessary for proper function of the calcaneocuboid joint [39]. Alignment has been maintained. Medially, the calcaneus is concave and relatively smooth. For the lateral radiograph, the ankle should be parallel to the detector, with the fibula slightly posterior to the midline axis of the tibia. In this case, the fracture line runs along the apophyseal scar, which is c. Pitfalls and Pearls in MRI of the Knee, Clinical Perspective. ADVERTISEMENT: Supporters see fewer/no ads. Defect in tubercle was similar in size to avulsed fragment (curved arrow) and likely its source. Pathology Calcaneal fractures can be divided broadly into two types depending on whether there is articular involvement of the subtalar joint 2,7,8: extra-articular: 25-30% anterior calcaneal process fracture The flexor hallucis longus tendon courses in a groove underneath the sustentaculum tali. There is osseous avulsion fracture of the posterior calcaneus associated with thickening and proximal retraction of the Achilles tendon. In this type, the bony fragment can be variable in size. Oblique view of foot shows incidental ossicle (arrow) located between calcaneus, talus, navicular, and cuboid that mimics type 1 anterior process fracture. Two mechanisms for anterior calcaneal process fractures have been described 3: the commonly recognized mechanism is an injury by flexion, inversion, and distraction of the bifurcate ligament leading to an avulsion fracture of variable size from the anterior calcaneal process, infrequently, impaction by eversion and dorsiflexion of the midfoot (known as the nutcracker mechanism) is observed. Bone marrow edema is seen in the posterior calcaneal tuberosity. There is a tiny avulsion fracture from the lateral surface of the calcaneus with associated soft tissue swelling. The "critical" angle of Gissane was devised on lateral radiographs to evaluate calcaneal fractures, . AJR Am J Roentgenol. Check for errors and try again. Radiology may show calcaneal spur formation or calcification at either the insertion of the . (2015) American Journal of Roentgenology. A calcaneal fracture is a break of the calcaneus (heel bone). EDB avulsion fracture is another mimic for APC avulsion fracture. Reduce fracture, temporary fixation with K-wire optional or use of cannulated screw. A, Postsplint radiograph obtained 2 days after injury depicts ossific fragment (arrow) in Achilles tendon approximately 5 cm above enthesis. Fig. One pitfall is that an avulsion fracture of the attachment of the calcaneofibular ligament occasionally may appear similar on the anteroposterior ankle radiograph, but the fracture fragment appears more posteriorly located on the frontal radiograph of the foot and is usually smaller. Avulsion fractures of the calcaneal tuberosity are rare, accounting for only 3% of all calcaneal fractures. You can use Radiopaedia cases in a variety of ways to help you learn and teach. J Bone Joint Surg Am. 5B Images of medial plantar process. {"url":"/signup-modal-props.json?lang=us\u0026email="}, Macori F, Knipe H, Foster T, et al. Fig. The tendon has a coiled collagen fiber pattern that spirals about 90 before its attachment [6]. Fig. Acute Fracture of the Anterior Process of Calcaneus: Does It Herald a More Advanced Injury to Chopart Joint? Author(s), Article title, Publication (year), DOI. Codes within the T section that include the external cause do . The vast majority of fractures are due to compressive mechanisms such as striking the heel against a ledge or from a fall from a height so that the resulting fracture may herald a more complex fracture. The mechanisms of injuries include overuse and neuropathic conditions, although most cases are related to trauma. 6). 9B 32-year-old female tennis player who inverted her foot and had dorsolateral bruising in foot. Neuropathic fractures are important because they have a much higher incidence of infection, nonunion, malunion, and failure of fixation and require a much longer time to heal than nonneuropathic insufficiency fractures. 3 59-year-old man with type 1 calcaneal avulsion fracture who felt pop and acute posterior heel pain. In this case, the fracture line runs along the apophyseal scar, which is compatible with type 1 avulsion fracture. ADVERTISEMENT: Radiopaedia is free thanks to our supporters and advertisers. Joint is stabilized dorsally, from medial to lateral, by dorsal talonavicular ligament (TN) and bifurcate ligament with its two components (calcaneonavicular and calcaneocuboid), dorsolaterally by dorsal calcaneocuboid (DCC) ligament (two-band variant is shown), and plantarly by short and long plantar ligaments. 7). The calcaneus is a relatively long tarsal bone that has the shape of a pistol grip (Fig. It can be differentiated by its well defined, rounded, well corticated borders [5]. . However, surgery may be delayed to allow swelling to subside which can improve your results and reduce the risk of . Although rare, an avulsion of the medial plantar process may occur when forceful tension on the plantar fascia enthesis occurs during falling from a height while landing on the tips of the toes, from forceful contraction of the Achilles tendon against a static long plantar ligament, or from violent contraction of the abductor hallucis muscle by forced dorsiflexion of the first ray [21, 22]. Vascular calcification is seen. The Achilles tendon is the strongest tendon in the body and has an average length of 15 cm. Anterior calcaneal process fracture. 11A 28-year-old male hockey player with twisting injury. About half of these fractures are radiographically occult even when confirmed on MRI, whereas as many as 6% of radiographically evident fractures in adults are misdiagnosed as ankle sprains [23]. Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain, a degenerative process that results in fibrofatty degeneration, microtears, and collagen necrosis in the fascial enthesis. There are no specific guidelines for the management of these injuries due to the rarity of its presentation. 1984;74(8):398-401. 35 (7): 1144-52. Anterior calcaneal process fractures are often missed fractures of the calcaneus (up to 88% are not reported on radiographic examination of the ankle) 1 leading to non-union of bone fragments, unrecognised associated ligamentous injuries, and persistent ankle or foot pain. The anterior calcaneal process is a bony promontory in the anterolateral aspect of the calcaneus bordered distally by the navicularcuboid articulation and proximally by the sinus tarsi. Clinically, lateral foot pain over the calcaneocuboid joint and focal soft-tissue swelling occurring proximal to the fifth metatarsal are characteristic clinical findings. ADVERTISEMENT: Radiopaedia is free thanks to our supporters and advertisers. 193: . Left lateral ankle radiograph shows a calcaneal avulsion fracture with the fragment pulled cephalad by the Achilles tendon. The extent is easily underestimated, which is why an additional CT scan is frequently made in a comminuted fracture. The lateral cord arises from the lateral margin of the medial process and extends to the cuboid and base of the fifth metatarsal bone, enveloping the aponeurosis of the abductor digiti minimi muscle. Diabetic patients are at risk of developing insufficiency avulsion fractures of the calcaneal tuberosity with minor trauma or even without a significant history of trauma. Extraarticular fractures are categorized as either compressive or avulsive types. There is mild thickening of the achilles tendon shadow and opacification of the Kager's fat pad. An important calcaneal fracture is an avulsion of the origin of the extensor digitorum brevis (EDB) muscle [24, 32]. 3); type 2, beak fracture with a horizontal fracture extending into the posterior body; type 3, infrabursal avulsion by the superficial fibers of the middle third of the Achilles tendon (Fig. 4A 43-year-old man who fell off horse and experienced pain and bruising in back of ankle. . The fracture also tends to extend posteriorly with a horizontal component immediately distal to the enthesis of the Achilles tendon [14]. Abstract and Figures An avulsion fracture on the dorsolateral aspect of the calcaneus at the origin of the extensor digitorum brevis muscle was identified after inversion injuries of the. In these fractures, closed manipulation often fails to achieve adequate reduction, and open reduction and internal fixation is required in most cases ( 2, 3 ). Reportedly, the percentage of unrecognized fractures in children is three to four times higher [4]. We monitored 12. 2015;205(5):1061-7. -. This case is unusual because it is the calcaneal attachment of the CFL which is avulsed. You may need to spend a few weeks on crutches if you have an avulsion fracture around your hip. The lateral talar process is one of the check areas on an ankle series for any patient with lateral pain. Always focus on site of common avulsion, with special attention to regions of soft tissue swelling, small avulsion fracture fragments are difficult to appreciate by MRI, and so avulsion injuries may be mislabeled as (intrasubstance) ligament rupture. Forced inversion of the foot is considered the mechanism of injury so that the EDB is rapidly stretched beyond its physiologic limits resulting in a tear of the muscle along with an avulsion fracture [32]. 2): type 1, simple avulsion with a variable-sized bone fragment (Fig. Calcaneal Avulsion Fractures: An Often Forgotten Diagnosis, Review. Case study, Radiopaedia.org (Accessed on 11 Dec 2022) https://doi.org/10.53347/rID-77260. ADVERTISEMENT: Radiopaedia is free thanks to our supporters and advertisers. Superiorly, there are three articular facets covered by hyaline cartilage. They are distinct from a lateral condyle fracture which although it has a similar name, it a very different . Mild increased signal intensity and thickening of medial and central band of the plantar fascia in keeping with plantar fasciitis. A joint capsule invests the joint cavity, and it is stabilized superiorly by the calcaneocuboid limb of the bifurcate ligament, laterally by the dorsal (dorsolateral) calcaneocuboid ligament, and inferiorly by the plantar calcaneocuboid ligament and the long plantar ligament [3638]. The medial cord is very thin and invests the abductor hallucis muscle. A, 22-year-old man who sustained fracture during football game. At the midbody level, a small prominence marks the attachment of the calcaneofibular ligament. [] These fractures are important because they have a strong association with other foot abnormalities, such as rupture of the anterior talofibular ligament, other tarsal fractures, and injuries of the peroneal ten-dons [29, 32]. neurologic. Tibiotalar Joint: Subchondral marrow edema like signal along the medial talar dome with tiny subchondral cystic changes along the tibial plafond indicating degenerative changes. Laterally, the calcaneus has two protuberances. Haraguchi N, Toga H, Shiba N, Kato F. Avulsion fracture of the lateral ankle ligament complex in severe inversion injury: incidence and clinical outcome. Types 1 and 2 fractures usually are avulsive, whereas most type 3 fractures are compressive. ADVERTISEMENT: Supporters see fewer/no ads. Lateral Calcaneal Avulsion Fracture - 15 images - avulsion fracture of the calcaneal tuberosity case report, calcaneal fracture radiology case, avulsion fracture of the calcaneal tuberosity case report, anterior calcaneal process fracture image, The hip, elbow and ankle are the most common locations for avulsion fractures in the young athlete. The standard oblique view requires medially rotating the ankle by 45. Fig. 1). open reduction -internal fixation (ORIF), Fractures of the anterior process of the calcaneus, Fractures of the anterior calcaneal process. The posterior talar facet has a triangular shape and a convex contour and is the largest of the three facets. Soft tissue swelling over the lateral malleolus. Fracture and bed curettage. Conditions in the fascia that produce pain in the heel can be attributed to either plantar fasciitis or fascial rupture. More than 90% of calcaneal fractures are extraarticular in children younger than 7 years, and 60% of such fractures are extraarticular in children 814 years old [4]. Linear dense structure is seen superior to the calcaneal tuberosity. 5. These facets are oriented in slightly different geometric planes and articulate with the inferior aspect of the talus to form the anterior, middle, and posterior subtalar joints. From a radiographic perspective, the calcaneus is a relatively difficult bone to visualize in its entirety. Calcaneal Fracture ORIF with Lateral Approach, Plate Fixation, and . Symptoms include nonspecific lateral ankle pain. (Drawings by Yu JS. . Biomechanically, the central cord is the most important component of the plantar fascia. Pathology Multiple other views have also been described but are less frequently utilized. It is still controversial whether fresh avulsion fractures of the medial or lateral epicondyle of the humerus in adults should be treated conservatively or surgically. Patients complain of swelling and dorsolateral pain over the sinus tarsi region. Radiographs and clinical records of 61 patients with calcaneal fractures were studied. and Joseph S. Yu. Fractures of the tuberosity are either from an avulsion or shear-compression mechanism of injury, with the latter constituting most fractures. The fibular (peroneal) trochlea is a bony prominence in the inferior and anterior aspect of the lateral calcaneus that serves to separate the peroneal longus and brevis tendons. Another pitfall occurs in children. Eighteen of the diabetic patients had no history of significant trauma. Stress fractures. Fig. Lateral ankle injuries are extremely common, most commonly injury to anterior talofibular (ATFL) and calcaneofibular ligaments (CFL). B, Axial CT image shows that avulsion fracture (oval) corresponds to proximal attachment of dorsal calcaneocuboid ligament. Complete avulsion fracture of the calcaneal tuberosity with very thin osseous fragment resulting in proximal retraction of the achilles tendon from calcaneal attachment. Use the menu to find downloaded articles. This configuration gives it the viscoelasticity that allows it to absorb and adapt to forces that can approach 612.5 times body weight during running [7, 8]. Most injuries are caused by high-energy trauma that result in intraarticular fractures [1]. An important pitfall is a neuropathic avulsion fracture of the tuberosity in a patient with long-term diabetes mellitus [13]. Lateral talar process avulsion fracture . Short segment split tear of peroneus brevis tendon is seen at the level of the lateral malleolus with reconstitution of the tendon distally. . 5). Fig. The mechanisms of injuries include overuse and neuropathic conditions, although most cases are related to trauma. 9A 32-year-old female tennis player who inverted her foot and had dorsolateral bruising in foot. [1] It usually occurs when a person lands on their feet following a fall from a height or during a motor vehicle collision. 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