Treatment of isolated Lisfranc ligament injuries with double-Endobutton technique

Abstract

Objective To report the surgical technique and curative effect of double-Endobutton in the treatment of isolated Lisfranc ligament injuries. Methods From December 2009 to June 2011,9 patients with isolated Lisfranc ligament injuries were treated with double-Endobutton technique in our department.They were 7 men and 2 women,aged from 27 to 64 years (average,37.5 years).Their postoperative X-rays were measured digitally to evaluate the curative effect according to the ankle-midfoot scoring system of American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS). Results After follow-ups of an average of 12.8months (from 6 to 23 months),the space of Lisfranc joint remained stable after weight loading at the affected foot.Their average AOFAS score was 52.1 ± 12.7 preoperation,83.6 ± 10.1 at 3 months postoperation and 86.7 ± 8.3 at 6 months postoperation.There were significant differences between preoperation and postoperation ( P ＜ 0.05) but there was no significant difference between 3 months postoperation and 6 months postoperation( P =0.998). Conclusion The double-Endobutton technique is one of the effective treatments of isolated Lisfranc ligament injuries,because it is simple and compatible with normal human biomechanics,provides rigid fixation,allows early exercise and weight-bearing,and eliminates the need for implant removal. Key words: Foot injuries; Ligaments; Reconstructive surgical procedures