In addition to fractures described by the term aviator's astragalus, other talar injuries are usually the result of ligamentous avulsion by forced dorsiflexion of the foot. The talus may be injured at the head, neck, body, or posterior process. Neck fractures are the most common. The talus is the second most fractured bone of the foot.

A	Lateral radiograph of the foot. This demonstrates a small cortical fragment just superior to the talus due to avulsion injury.

Links to online textbooks:

• Wheeless' Orthopedics: menu of injuries to the talus

Links to online cases:

• Arthroscopy.com

References:

• Mandracchia VJ, Buddecke DE Jr, Giesking JL: Osteochondral lesions of the talar dome. A comprehensive review with retrospective study Clin Podiatr Med Surg. 1999 Oct;16(4):725-42.           [See related articles]
• Higgins TF, Baumgaertner MR: Diagnosis and treatment of fractures of the talus: a comprehensive review of the literature Foot Ankle Int. 1999 Sep;20(9):595-605.           [See related articles]