The middle part of the foot, called the midfoot, contains the Lisfranc joint, the area where the long metatarsal bones join some of the tarsal bones. The inner side of the midfoot contains the Lisfranc complex, formed from the first two metatarsal bones, two tarsal bones, and their connecting ligaments.
Midfoot Injuries (Lisfranc Injuries)
A Lisfranc injury occurs from damage to the connecting ligaments that hold the bones of the Lisfranc complex together. Common causes include a heavy weight crushing the foot, trauma from motor vehicle accidents, or repeated impact over time from sports and exercise.
Treatment for minor Lisfranc injuries involves immobilizing the foot in a boot for several weeks to allow the injured area to heal. Surgery is recommended in cases where the foot bones become unstable and the joints are affected.
Surgery for a Lisfranc injury involves procedures that restore stability to the Lisfranc complex. A variety of different techniques can be used to hold the bones together.
During Lisfranc injury surgery, a surgeon makes an incision along the top of the foot to access the Lisfranc complex. A metal plate and screws, anchors, sutures, and/or metal button implants can be used to stabilize the Lisfranc complex.
