Arthroscopic Reduction and Internal Fixation (ARIF) of a Comminuted Posterior Talar Body Fracture: Surgical Technique and Case Report

Abstract

The talus is the second most common fractured tarsal bone. While their incidence may be low, talus fractures are severe injuries that can lead to long-term disability and pain. Displaced talar body fractures are typically treated through an open approach with the aim of obtaining anatomic reduction and stable fixation. There are several case reports in the literature demonstrating successful management of talus fractures arthroscopically. An arthroscopic approach minimizes soft tissue trauma, which can help decrease postoperative wound complications and infections. In this article, the authors describe a surgical technique of an arthroscopic reduction and internal fixation of a comminuted posterior talar body fracture. Compared with an open posterior approach with or without osteotomies, an arthroscopic technique improved visualization and allowed precise reduction and fixation.

Levels of evidence: Level V: Case report.

Keywords: diagnostic and therapeutic techniques; external and internal fixation; forefoot; midfoot; talar fractures; toe.