Defining Talar Head and Neck Pathology: The Malvern Classification System

Abstract

Talar fractures account for <1% of all fractures in the body and 3% to 6% of pedal fractures. Of these fractures, avulsion and neck fractures represent the most and second most common type, respectively. Several classification systems exist for talar fractures of the talar dome (Berndt-Hardy), talar neck dislocation (Hawkins), and talar body (Sneppen) anatomic locations. Although diverse, they are not all encompassing for fracture patterns of the talus. Another set of pathologic issues occur about the talar head and neck region that can be seen in the clinical setting. Thus, a new classification system (Malvern classification system for talar head/neck fractures) was devised and defined for this location. The system represents a comprehensive review of the available published data and synthesis into an organized classification system.

Keywords: Hawkins; avulsion fracture; classification; fracture; talus; trauma.