Closed anterolateral fracture dislocation of the talus: Challenges and solutions. A case report

Abstract

Talus plays a critical role in supporting normal ambulation and gait. Its intricate structure and function make it an essential component for maintaining mobility and facilitating various movements of the lower extremities. Reduction of the dislocated talar head is sometimes difficult to achieve. The current report discusses a case of anterolateral dislocated talus with fracture and provides a comprehensive review of the relevant literature. A 32-year-old construction worker fell from a height of 3 m and suffered deformity, and swelling in his mid-right foot, accompanied by severe pain. Imaging revealed multiple injuries, including dislocations and fractures of the talus. Attempts at closed reduction failed, leading to surgical intervention. An anterolateral approach was employed, and after releasing the talus head from the extensor retinaculum, successful reduction was achieved. Fracture fixation was performed using screws. At the 6-month follow-up, the patient had mild pain and limited range of motion but was able to walk. Healing was evident on X-rays without avascular necrosis. After 9 months, the patient's condition was satisfactory. To successfully reduce the dislocation, it is important to have sufficient exposure to release or free the talus from the extensor retinaculum. Timely reduction of the dislocation and concurrent fixation of the fracture is essential to successfully treat such a type of injury.

Keywords

• anatomical reduction
• ankle injuries
• complete talar dislocation
• outcome
• talus fixation
• talus fracture