Nunley-Vertullo classification of Lisfranc injuries (illustrations)

Case contributed by Andrew Murphy

The Nunley-Vertullo classification of Lisfranc injuries was developed to classify low-grade midfoot sprains on weight-bearing radiographs.

Case Discussion

Lower-grade midfoot sprains are difficult to detect on plain imaging and fracture-dislocation classification systems are not suitable for Lisfranc injuries without a fracture present.

The Nunley-Vertullo classification of Lisfranc injuries was developed to classify low-grade midfoot sprains on weight-bearing radiographs.

  • grade 1
    • low-grade ligament sprain
    • no findings on the weight-bearing radiograph 
    • positive bone scan
  • grade 2
    • ligament insufficiency or disruption with an intact plantar ligament
    • 2–5-mm M1-M2 diastasis on a weight-bearing radiograph
  • grade 3
    • complete ligament disruption
    • >5-mm M1-M2 diastasis on DP weight-bearing radiograph
    • loss of arch height on the lateral projection

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