J Korean Foot Ankle Soc.  2007 Dec;11(2):226-231.

Treatment of Intra-articular Calcaneal Fracture with Open Reduction and Internal Fixation

• Choi JW
• Choi JC
• Lee YS
• Na HY
• Kim WS
• Han SH

Abstract

PURPOSE: To evaluate the clinical outcomes and radiographic results of open reduction and internal fixation for intra- articular calcaneal fractures.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
We reviewed 20 cases of calcaneal fractures managed with open reduction and internal fixation from March 2003 to January 2005. We used the computed tomographic classification system proposed by Sanders et al to classify these fractures. Preoperative and postoperative Bohler's angle, heel height (calcaneal facet height) and calcaneal length, calcaneal width were measured. The Creighton-Nebraska Health Foundation Assessment score was used for clinical evaluation.
RESULTS
There were 12 cases of type II fractures, 5 of type III fractures and 3 of type IV fractures. The mean clinical score was 84.3 for type II, 82.6 for type III and 56.1 for type IV. The mean preoperative B?hler angle was 6.1 degrees and final was 22.8 degrees. The mean preoperative calcaneal facet height was 76.6 mm and final was 80.3 mm (The mean calcaneal facet height was changed from preop 76.6 mm to postop 80.3 mm). The mean preoperative calcaneal length was 88.2 mm and final was 92.6 mm. The mean preoperative width was 38.1 mm and final was 35.6 mm.
CONCLUSION
Open reduction and internal fixation showed good results for type II and III fractures, but for type IV fractures the clinical result was significantly worse than the other types. However, type IV fractures still had restoration of (should be restored in) Bohler's angle, calcaneal facet height, calcaneal length and width which may be helpful in later subtalar fusion.

Keyword

Calcaneus; Intraarticular fracture; Open reduction and internal fixation

MeSH Terms

Calcaneus
Classification
Heel
Intra-Articular Fractures