Helical CT of talar fractures

• Published in: Skeletal radiology Vol. 26; no. 3; pp. 137 - 142
• Main Authors: WECHSLER, R. J, SCHWEITZER, M. E, KARASICK, D, DEELY, D. M, GLASER, J. B
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Berlin Springer 01.03.1997; Springer Nature B.V
• Subjects: Adolescent; Adult; Biological and medical sciences; Female; Fractures, Bone - diagnostic imaging; Humans; Injuries of the limb. Injuries of the spine; Male; Medical sciences; Talus - diagnostic imaging; Talus - injuries; Tarsal Bones - diagnostic imaging; Tarsal Bones - injuries; Tomography, X-Ray Computed - methods; Traumas. Diseases due to physical agents; Human; Radiodiagnosis; Diseases of the osteoarticular system; Fracture; Review; Trauma; Astragalus; Tarsus; Disease of the foot; Medical imagery; Computerized axial tomography; Diagnosis; Bone
• ISSN: 0364-2348; 1432-2161
• DOI: 10.1007/s002560050209

Since the degree of comminution, fracture alignment, and articular congruity of talar fractures are important determinants of treatment, we review the helical CT technique for detecting and assessing the extent of acute talar fractures. Helical CT can be used to classify talar neck fractures which often cannot be determined by radiography. It is also useful in detecting posterior process, lateral process, and avulsion fractures, as well as acute osteochondral fractures. Multiplanar CT using 1-mm acquisitions allows optimal evaluation, detects fractures initially missed on radiographs, and determines further extent of fractures.