Internal compression treatment of intra-articular fracture of the calcaneum by anatomical plate with compression bolt through sinus tarsi approach

Abstract

Objective To observe the curative effect of internal compression in the treatment of intra-articular fracture of the calcaneus by anatomical plate with compression bolt through the sinus tarsi approach.Methods Forty-nine patients with 62 calcaneal fractures treated with anatomical plate with compression bolt through sinus tarsi approach from September 2006 to May 2009 were enrolled in the study.According to Sanders classification,there were 39 patients with type Ⅱ fractures,20 with type Ⅲ fractures and three with type Ⅳ fractures.The axial and lateral view X-ray radiographs and the axial,semi-coronal and sagittal computed tomography (CT) images of the heel were taken before and after operation.The reduction of posterior articular surface of calcaneus and calcaneal shape was observed and the width,height,length,B(o)hler' s angle and Gissan' s angle were measured on the radiographs,respectively.Partial weight bearing was allowed 12 weeks after operation and full weight beating was allowed 16 weeks after operation.The anatomical plates were removed 8-15 months after operation.The Maryland hindfoot score system was applied to evaluate the function of the hindfoot postoperatively.Results All the patients were followed up for 7.5-23 months (average 10.6 months),which showed no wound infection.The reduction of the posterior facet was nearly anatomical (less than 3 mm articular displacement) in all patients and the shape of the calcaneus was satisfactory.The width,height,length,B(o)hler' s angle and Gissan' s angle were improved significantly in all patients (P ＜0.01 ).According to Maryland hindfoot scoring system,29 feet scored 90-100 points (excellent),18 feet scored 80-90 points (good),10 feet scored 70-80 points (moderate) and 5 feet scored 60-70 points (poor).A total of 40 patients (82％) were able to return to their original occupations at mean 9.1 months ( 6.0-12.9 months ) after the injury.Conclusion The anatomical plate with compression bolt internal fixation through sinus tarsi approach is an ideal method for the treatment of displaced intra-articular calcaneus fracture. Key words: Calcaneus; Fracture fixation, internal; Surgical approach