Epidemiology and Imaging Appearance of the Normal Bi-/multipartite Hallux Sesamoid Bone. (February 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Favinger, Jennifer L.; Porrino, Jack Anthony; Richardson, Michael L.; Mulcahy, Hyojeong; Chew, Felix S.; Brage, Michael E.
• Is Part Of: Foot & ankle international. Volume 36:Number 2(2015:Feb.)
• Page Start: 197
• Page End: 202
• Publication Date: 2015-02
• Subjects: forefoot disorders -- hallux disorders -- sports -- statistical analysis -- trauma; Foot -- Abnormalities -- Periodicals; Ankle -- Abnormalities -- Periodicals; Orthopedics -- Periodicals; 617.585
• DOI: 10.1177/1071100714552484
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1071-1007

Abstract

Background: Turf toe is a hyperextension injury of the hallux metatarsophalangeal joint that can be difficult to diagnose on physical examination and imaging. Diastasis of the bi- or multipartite sesamoid of the hallux has been implicated as 1 potential radiographic finding of turf toe injury, and when present may require operative management. However, the normal interval for the bi-/multipartite sesamoid has not yet been established. Methods: A total of 671 foot radiograph series were reviewed in effort to quantify the dominant interval of the bi-/multipartite sesamoid bone with respect to potential influencing factors including right versus left foot, medial and/or lateral sesamoid involvement, patient age and gender, and weight versus non-weight-bearing radiograph technique. Results: The prevalence of a bi-/multipartite hallux sesamoid was 14.3% in our population. The dominant sesamoid interval ranged from 0-2 mm, with an average of 0.79 mm. Conclusion: We conclude that sesamoid diastasis should be considered, in the appropriate clinical setting, when the sesamoid interval is greater than 2 mm on a routine AP radiograph of the foot. Level of Evidence: Level III, comparative study.