Isolated Traumatic Dislocation of the Proximal Tibiofibular Joint: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
A. Isern de Val1, A. García Esques1, R. Ramírez de Paz1*
1Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Hospital Royo Villanova - Zaragoza – Spain.
*Corresponding Author: Ricardo Ramírez de Paz, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Hospital Royo Villanova - Zaragoza – Spain.
https://doi.org/10.58624/SVOAOR.2026.06.008
Received: March 30, 2026
Published: April 17, 2026
Citation: Isern de Val A, García Esques A, Ramírez de Paz R. Isolated Traumatic Dislocation of the Proximal Tibiofibular Joint: A Case Report and Review of the Literature. SVOA Orthopaedics 2026, 6:2, 56-59. doi: 10.58624/SVOAOR.2026.06.008
Abstract
Background: Traumatic dislocation of the proximal tibiofibular joint (PTFJ) is a rare injury, accounting for less than 1% of all knee injuries. Its subtle clinical presentation, often mimicking lateral meniscal pathology, can lead to missed diagnosis. Failure to recognize this injury may result in chronic knee pain and instability, making prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment essential.
Case Description: We present the case of a 19-year-old male who presented to the emergency department with left knee pain after a torsional injury while skating. He reported pain in the proximal lateral leg and an inability to fully bear weight. Plain radiographs showed a lack of overlap between the fibular head and the lateral tibial condyle, raising suspicion for a PTFJ dislocation. A subsequent computed tomography (CT) scan confirmed an anterolateral dislocation of the proximal tibiofibular joint. The patient underwent a closed reduction under sedation and fluoroscopic guidance. Post-reduction imaging confirmed adequate joint congruity. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) ruled out associated injuries to the posterolateral corner. The patient progressed favorably and returned to full sports activities.
Conclusions: Isolated PTFJ dislocation is an uncommon but clinically significant injury that can be easily overlooked. Anterolateral dislocation is the most frequent subtype. Early diagnosis with a high index of suspicion and confirmation by CT scan, followed by urgent closed reduction, is crucial to achieve optimal outcomes and prevent chronic instability.
Keywords: Proximal Tibiofibular Joint, Fibular Head Dislocation, Sport Injury.