Pediatric Calcaneal Tuberosity Avulsion Fracture: A Case Report and Literature Review

Abstract

Introduction: Calcaneus fractures are rare in the pediatric population, and avulsion fracture of the calcaneal tuberosity is even less common. In adults, those fractures are usually associated with poor bone quality, however, this is not the case in children. It is a fracture that requires emergent intervention to prevent devastating skin and soft-tissue-related complications. Case Report: We report a case of a 9-year-old female who had a displaced calcaneal tuberosity fracture with heel skin impending compromise, after a fall at an indoor gymnastic facility. The child had a history of acute lymphoblastic leukemia, diagnosed at age 4, she was in remission at the time of injury. In the present report, besides reporting a rare injury among the pediatric population, we also describe the operative management, the post-operative course, and we review the literature. Conclusion: Pediatric calcaneal tuberosity fractures, although rare, can lead to devastating complications if not addressed promptly, and should be treated in an expedited fashion. Keywords: Pediatric, calcaneal tuberosity, skin compromise.