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Because of the first toe's role in weight-bearing, balance, and pedal motion, the patients with first-toe fracture-dislocations, displaced intra-articular fractures, and unstable displaced fractures, the referral of those is highly recommended. ...
X-ray shows comminuted fracture at the proximal phalanx of the right big toe, with interphalangeal joint intra-articular extension.
X-rays provide images of dense structures, such as bone. An X-ray can usually be done in your doctor's office. Most fractures can be seen on a routine X-ray. A stress fracture, however, may start as a tiny crack in the bone and may not be visible on a first X-ray.
Key points. Carefully check the cortical edge of all bones on all views available. Always check for alignment of bones at the mid-forefoot junction (tarsometatarsal joints) Injury to the Lisfranc ligament may not be visible on initial X-ray - follow up may be necessary.
The big (1st) toe has an important role in toe-off phase of gait; suspected fractures should be formally diagnosed with xray with any fractures followed up in with the orthopaedics team. Correction of any clinically evident angulation is a key part of Emergency Department Management.
General Fracture Management. Acute pain management. Open fractures require immediate IV antibiotics and urgent surgical washout. Neurovascular compromise from fracture requires emergent reduction and/or orthopedic intervention. Consider risk for compartment syndrome.
Sometimes x-rays. Doctors can often diagnose a toe fracture based on a physical examination. Usually, x-rays are not needed because treatment is the same whether the toe is fractured or not. If the big toe is fractured or if a toe is badly bent out of place (displaced) or rotated, x-rays are taken from several different angles.
