# The Segond Fracture as a Vital Diagnostic Tool for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury in Acute Settings: A Case Report

## TL;DR

A Segond fracture can help diagnose knee ligament injuries when MRI is not available, as shown in a case of a 29-year-old man with an ACL tear.

## Contribution

This case report emphasizes the diagnostic value of Segond fractures in acute ACL injury detection without MRI.

## Key findings

- A Segond fracture was identified as a reliable indicator of ACL and MCL injuries in this case.
- The patient managed conservatively showed satisfactory recovery at eight weeks.
- Segond fractures can guide diagnosis in acute knee trauma when MRI is unavailable.

## Abstract

A Segond fracture is a specific type of avulsion fracture involving the lateral aspect of the proximal tibia adjacent to the tibial plateau. Segond fractures are indicative of ligamentous injury in the knee. In this case report, a 29-year-old male delivery driver presented to the ED with acute onset right knee pain after losing control of his motorbike at low speed. Examination revealed significant effusion and medial and lateral joint line tenderness. An anterior-posterior radiograph of the knee showed a Segond fracture. Subsequent MRI confirmed a full-thickness anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture and medial collateral ligament (MCL) tear. Despite surgical reconstruction options, the patient chose conservative management. At eight-week follow-up, he demonstrated satisfactory progress. This case highlights the diagnostic significance of Segond fractures in identifying ligamentous damage in the knee without the availability of MRI. It also highlights the feasibility of non-operative management in some instances.