Complications and Radiographic Outcomes of Operatively Treated Navicular Fractures

Abstract

Category: Midfoot/Forefoot; Trauma Introduction/Purpose: Navicular fractures are uncommon foot fractures and there is scarce literature exploring the complications and radiologic outcomes of these fractures. The aim of this study is to examine fracture patterns and surgical data to see the effect they have on complications and radiographic outcomes after open reduction internal fixation of the navicular. Methods: A retrospective study was performed to identify patients who underwent operative treatment of a navicular fracture over a nine-year period (2013-2022). Patients were screened by review of CPT codes that included tarsal fractures and imaging review was used to identify those with navicular fractures. Minimum follow-up for inclusion was 6 months. Patient demographics were recorded and radiographs were reviewed and fractures were classified per the Sangeorzan and Schmid classification systems. Surgical data including approach(es), implants, and supplemental fixation was recorded. Postoperative radiographs were assessed for the presence of union, avascular necrosis, foot collapse, and arthritis. Complications defined as infection, unanticipated reoperation, and amputation were recorded. Results: 38 patients met inclusion criteria. 8 patients had a postoperative complication (21.1%). There was 1 superficial infection (2.6%) and 7 patients needed unanticipated reoperations: 2 (5.3%) for wound dehiscence, two (5.3%) for secondary arthritis, and 3 for symptomatic hardware removal (7.9%). Radiologic outcomes consisted of 7 cases of TNJ arthritis (18.4%), 6 cases of avascular necrosis (15.8%), and 7 cases of foot collapse (18.4%). There were significantly increased rates of TNJ arthritis in Schmid type III navicular fractures compared to type I and II (7 vs 0 vs 0, respectively; p=0.021), with 35% of Schmid type IIIs going on to develop TNJ arthritis. The need for reoperation of the navicular was increased if patients required a TNJ spanning construct [2 (50%) vs 2 (5.9%), p=0.007]. Conclusion: Navicular fractures that require ORIF have a high complication rate and a likelihood of developing suboptimal radiographic outcomes. We found that patients who dislocate their TNJ (Schmid Type-III), had an increased rate of TNJ arthritis which likely stems from the more severe nature of the injury, the keystone role of the navicular and the instability present across Chopart’s joint. For patients requiring a TNJ spanning construct there was an increased risk for unanticipated reoperation likely due to the size and nature of the spanning construct hardware. Patient education on these risk factors will guide treatment options and set proper expectations.