Avulsion fracture of the fibular head

These are fractures of the proximal fibula, produced by an avulsion (traction) mechanism. The pathology is similar to a rupture of the collateral ligament.

Avulsion of the fibular head can indicate several ligamental injuries (besides the lateral collateral ligament, the insertion of the biceps femoris, and the fibula-popliteal ligament may also be avulsed). While these may occur in isolation, more complicated tibial fractures may have this associated fracture as well. In these situations, because the lateral side of the limb is put under tension there may be a compression fracture of the anteromedial surface of the tibia.

Identifying this fibular head avulsion may allow accurate assessment of the injury mechanism. This is important because these are fracture dislocations of the knee.

Compartment syndrome and injuries to the peroneal nerve are not uncommon with this injury mechanism.