The Usefulness of Arthroscopy in the Operative Treatment of Intra-Articular Calcaneal Fracture

Chung, Kyung Chil; Gwak, Heui Chul; Kim, Chang Wan; Kim, Jung Han; Park, Dae Hyun

Abstract

PURPOSE: We tried to evaluate the usefulness of the arthroscopy in the operative treatment of intra-articular calcaneal fracture.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Between March 2005 and May 2008, 9 patients with intra-articular calcaneal fractures (Tongue type or Sanders type IIC) were treated with arthroscopically assisted percutaneous reduction and screw fixation. American orthopedic foot and ankle society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot score, visual analogue scale (VAS), preoperative and postoperative Bohler's angle and the rate of complication were evaluated.
RESULTS
AOFAS score at postoperative 1 year was 88.2 (range, 71-92), and mean VAS score was 2.8 (range, 1-4). Bohler angle was improved from preoperative mean 16.2 degrees to postoperative mean 29.7 degrees . There were no complications such as wound problem, infection or nerve injury.
CONCLUSION
Subtalar arthroscopy provides precise view of posterior facet during the operation. Therefore, it can be a useful tool in treating intra-articular calcaneus fractures, especially tongue type and Sanders type IIC fractures.