Proximal tibiofibular dislocation

Abstract

Proximal tibiofibular joint dislocation is an uncommon injury, which may be easily missed on plain radiography. If recognised, it can be treated in the emergency department, avoiding surgery and long term problems. The case is presented of a 22 year old male rugby player who was tackled from the left hand side while turning to the left. He heard a “pop” from his knee as he fell to the ground. Clinical examination revealed a prominence in the area of the fibular head. There was no evidence of peroneal nerve injury. Plain x rays confirmed a clinical suspicion for anterior dislocation of the proximal tibiofibular joint. Proximal tibiofibular joint dislocation typically occurs when the knee is slightly flexed and the foot is rotated and plantar flexed. Antero lateral dislocation is the most common pattern. Diagnosis is largely clinical, but the findings may be subtle. Plain films may not show any abnormality and computed tomography is the investigation of choice if there is clinical suspicion for the injury. The dislocation should be reduced in the emergency department, but controversy exists whether early mobilisation or casting is the most appropriate course of action.