Talus Fracture
What is the talus?
The talus is a bone in the hindfoot between the tibia and the calcaneus and makes up the bottom part of the ankle joint. It acts as connection between the foot and the leg.
What causes talus fractures?
Talus fractures are often caused by high energy trauma such as a motor vehicle accident or fall from height.
What are the symptoms of a talus fracture?
The symptoms of a talus fracture include pain, swelling, bruising and inability to walk.
How is a talus fracture diagnosed?
A talus fracture is diagnosed with medical history, thorough physical examination and imaging studies. X-rays will be ordered. MRI and/or CT scans are often useful in further evaluating the fracture.
How is a talus fracture treated?
Pilon fractures require immediate medical attention.
Nonsurgical
Correct treatment of talus fractures is essential. Nonsurgical treatment can be an option for some nondisplaced fractures and includes immobilization in a cast, followed by progressive range of motion and strengthening in physical therapy.
Surgical
Surgery is necessary for most talus fractures in order to minimize the risk of long term pain, arthritis and deformity. This can include fixing the bone with plates and screws followed by immobilization and progressive physical therapy.