Current Operative Techniques in Lisfranc Injury

Lisfranc injuries carry a high risk for chronic secondary disability. Post-traumatic arthritis in the midfoot occurs despite operative intervention and restoration of anatomic alignment. The currently accepted method of stabilization of an extensive Lisfranc injury is the use of screws across tarsometatarsal and intercuneiform joints of the medial and middle columns and K wires in the lateral column of the foot. Screws traversing articular surfaces may contribute to the articular damage and post-traumatic arthritis in the midfoot. More recently, therefore, plates with screws that do not traverse articular surfaces have been used to minimize the risk. This article gives a brief overview and description of current and evolving techniques used in surgical intervention of the Lisfranc injury.