Multiple abnormalities in the feet and associated changes elsewhere in the skeleton: The case of 3A-7 from a Capsian Site in Algeria

A skeleton with a number of abnormalities is described with full discussion of alternative diagnoses. In this complex case, the primary diagnosis is of avulsion of the stem of the bifurcate ligament causing a fracture of the anterior process of the calcaneus. The bilateral fracture identified in Skeleton 3A-7 from Site 12, a Capsian site in Algeria, is a result of the feet being inverted and plantar flexed: the fracture is prone to non-union, which is asymmetrical here. There is also a separate anomaly of the feet, 3rd cuneiform and 3rd metatarsal coalition, which was not the cause of trauma. The bifurcate ligament is a major stabilizer of the lateral Chopart (transverse talar) joint, and the trauma could lead to further issues: however, multiple other traumatic changes in 3A-7 most likely occurred at the same time, rather than as the result of pre-existing foot trauma. The asymmetry of the calcaneal condition and asymmetry of the sequelae of the original trauma led to long bone asymmetry, the result of locomotor difficulties.