Categorization of single cuneiform fractures and investigation of related injuries: A 10-year retrospective study

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to define the fracture type and investigate the injuries related to single medial, intermediate, or lateral cuneiform fracture. Methods: From January 2008 to December 2018, 30 consecutive patients (30 cases) who were treated in the single institution for the single cuneiform fractures were reviewed retrospectively. Each fracture was categorized by location and type (intra- or extra-articular avulsion, axial compression, and direct blow). We also investigated the related foot bone fractures or dislocations on the affected side. Results: Twenty-one, one, and eight cases with single medial, intermediate, and lateral cuneiform bone fractures, respectively, were identified. More than two-thirds of the single cuneiform fractures were observed in the medial cuneiform bone. The single medial cuneiform fracture was associated with various types of foot injuries including Lisfranc injury, naviculo-cuneiform joint dislocation, or calcaneo-cuboidal dislocation. Single lateral cuneiform fractures were more frequently observed than single intermediate cuneiform fractures. Conclusion: More than two-thirds of the single cuneiform fractures were observed in the medial cuneiform bone. Most intra-articular avulsion fractures were associated with high-energy trauma. Level of Evidence: 4.