Fixation Of Intra-articular Calcaneal Fractures Research Articles

Three-dimensional printing technique aids screw insertion into the sustentaculum tali of the internal fixation of intra-articular calcaneal fractures

IntroductionTreating complex calcaneus fractures remains challenging. This study evaluated the influence of 3D printing and simulation on precision screw insertion into the calcaneus sustentaculum tali (ST). Hypothesis3D printing and simulation improve the treatment for calcaneal fracture. Patients and methodsThis retrospective cohort study included 85 patients admitted with 93 Sanders type II–IV intra-articular fractures from January 2015 to June 2020. Multi-slice computed tomography (MSCT) images were used in the conventional group, and MSCT data were used to construct a 3D model of the calcaneus to simulate screw insertion and verify parameter accuracy in the 3D group. ResultsThe designed parameters (upward and backward oblique angles and screw-path length) were similar to the actual values in the 3D group (p=0.428,0.287,0.585) but not in the conventional group (p=0.01,0.002,0.023). The Maryland foot functional score, accuracy rate, and average screw number were higher and operative time was shorter in the 3D group (p=0.005,0.007,0.000,0.000). DiscussionPreoperative simulation using the 3D printing model helped guide the screws into the ST more accurately, lending better-quality treatment for Sanders type II–IV calcaneal fractures. Level of proofIII; Retrospective case-control study.

Limb Reconstruction System Assisted Reduction and Internal Fixation for Intra-Articular Calcaneal Fractures: A New Application.

Minimally invasive reduction and fixation of intra-articular calcaneal fractures poses great challenges for orthopaedic surgeons. The aim of the present study was to report the technical points, evaluate the efficacy of minimally invasive reduction and internal fixation assisted by the temporary limb reconstruction system (LRS) external fixator for intra-articular calcaneal fractures, and propose the indications of our protocol. In this retrospective study, a series of 34 consecutive closed and displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures involving the articular surface were treated by this technology between June 2016 and April 2018. X-ray and computed tomography (CT) scans were performed before and after surgery to measure Bohler's angle; the length, height, and width of the calcaneus; and the mechanical axis of the hindfoot. Postoperative complications were recorded. Imaging and clinical outcomes were comprehensively evaluated using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot-ankle scoring system. After testing the normality of the data, Bohler's angle and the length of calcaneus were compared using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. The height, width of the calcaneus, and the mechanical axis of the hindfoot were compared using the Paired-Samples t-test. Thirty-two fractures were followed up for an average of 20.66 months (from 12 to 32 months). All fractures achieved stable reduction and bony union. The articular surface was reduced and fixed with direct vision through the sinus tarsi incision. No failure of internal fixation or loss of reduction was detected during follow-up. There were no soft tissue complications. Bohler's angle; the length, height, and width of the calcaneus; and the mechanical axis of the hindfoot improved significantly. The AOFAS scores averaged 84.12 points; seven cases were rated excellent, 20 good, four fair, and one poor. For intra-articular calcaneal fractures, minimally invasive surgery assisted with temporary LRS external fixation can reconstruct the calcaneal shape and the sub-talar articular surface. This simple surgical modality with limited complications may be helpful in the surgical treatment of most type II and III calcaneal fractures except comminuted fractures of the calcaneal tuberosity.

Patient Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) in Surgery: Evaluation after Minimally Invasive Reduction and Percutaneous K-Wires Fixation for Intra-Articular Calcaneal Fractures

The optimal surgical treatment of intra-articular calcaneal fractures (IACF) is still under debate. In the literature, results are based on clinical or radiographical findings. Few studies have evaluated the effect of patient expectations on patient-reported outcomes after surgery and little is known about outcomes directly reported by the patient who experienced it. Patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) may represent a viable and useful tool for evaluating the efficacy of the procedure and can be considered as an indicators of health-care quality. The aim of this study is to evaluate PROMs after minimally invasive reduction and percutaneous Kirschner-wires fixation for IACF, and to compare PROMs to pre-operative and last follow-up radiographic findings. 33 consecutive patients with IACF treated with minimally invasive reduction and percutaneous K-wires fixation were included. Data collection included demographics, pre-operative and last available Böhler and Gissane angle X-rays, foot function index (FFI), and foot and ankle outcome score (FAOS). At a mean follow up of 36.7 months, the mean FFI score was 24.3 ± 19.9 and the mean FAOS score was 68 ± 24.8. Patients with better Gissane angle showed better activity limitations FFI subscores. Moreover, worse pre-operative Gissane and Böhler angle were significantly associated with a worse total FAOS score and subscores. Minimally invasive reduction and percutaneous K-wires fixation provided satisfactory PROMs. Despite these results, prospective randomized studies are required to confirm the validity and reliability of PROMs in evaluating different treatments.

Fixation of intra-articular calcaneal fractures: A comparative study of the postoperative outcome between HA/PPLA screws and locking plates

BackgroundForged unsintered hydroxyapatite and poly l-lactic acid (F-u-HA/PLLA) screw is bioactivite, bioabsorbable, and radiopaque with high mechanical strength. Its efficacy has been previously demonstrated in the treatment of lateral humeral condylar, lateral tibial condylar, ankle, and patellar fractures. However, studies on its efficacy in treatment of calcaneal fractures is lacking. This study aimed to compare the postoperative results of F-u-HA/PLLA screw fixation and locking plate fixation for intra-articular calcaneal fractures. MethodsFrom January 2013 to December 2019, 47 closed intra-articular fractures treated with either F-u-HA/PLLA screws (group S, 18 feet in 17 patients) or locking plates (group P, 29 feet in 28 patients) in a single trauma center were retrospectively reviewed. The sinus tarsi approach was used in both groups. The time to bone union, step-off, varus deformity, Bohler's angle, and width and height of the calcaneus were assessed after surgery. Ankle joint range of motion (ROM) and postoperative complications were also assessed. ResultsAll fractures were successfully treated. The Kaplan-Meier curves of the two groups showed similar trends. The log-rank test showed no significant difference in the time to bone union between the two groups (p = 0.48). In the Cox proportional hazards model adjusted for preoperative width and Bohler's angle, the hazard ratio for bone union was not statistically significant (HR: 1.13, 95%CI: 0.50–2.56, p = 0.78). Other variables included step-off (group S: 2.0 vs group P: 2.2 mm, p = 0.84), varus deformity (2.0° vs. 3.0°, p = 0.7), Gissane's angle (103.5° vs 104.0°, p = 0.84), width (38.0 vs 34.8 mm, p = 0.12), height (42.1 vs 44.0 mm, p = 0.07), and ankle ROM degrees (dorsal flexion, 20.0° vs. 20.0°, p = 0.13; plantar flexion 40.0° vs 40.0°, p = 0.56), which were not significantly different between groups P and S. The Bohler's angle was smaller in group S than in group P (20.5° vs 27.0°, p < 0.01). No skin necrosis or infection was observed in either group. ConclusionPostoperative results of F-u-HA/PLLA screw fixation using the sinus tarsi approach for intra-articular calcaneal fractures were as good as those of locking plate fixation.

Comparison of clinical and radiological outcomes between extended lateral and sinus tarsi approach in the surgical treatment of displaced intraarticular calcaneal fractures surgery

Purpose: The aim of this stud was to compare the clinical and radiological results between Sinus-tarsi (ST) and Extended-Lateral (EL) approaches in open reduction internal fixation of intra-articular calcaneal fractures.&#x0D; Materials and Methods: 51 calcaneal fractures of 48 patients surgically treated between 2012 and 2017 were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided into two groups. Preoperative CT, early postoperative and postoperative 1st-year radiographs, and The American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle-Hindfoot Score scores were evaluated.&#x0D; Results: According to the Sanders classification, nine patients in the EL group were type 2(36%), 16 patients type 3 (64%), 8 patients in ST group type 234.8%), 13 patients (56.5%) type 3, 2 patients (8.7%) type 4. The mean AOFAS-Hindfoot score was 85(63-100) in the ST group and 83(52-93) in the LE group at one year. Mean preoperative waiting time was shorter, with an average of 2(1-4) days in ST and 6(3-12) days in LE. &#x0D; Conclusion: ST approach shortens the preoperative waiting time in intra-articular calcaneal fracture surgery, provides a sufficient vision for anatomical restoration, and effectively avoids complications.

Fixation of Intra-Articular Calcaneal Fractures: A Comparative Study of the Postoperative Outcome between HA/PPLA Screws and Locking Plates

Fixation of Intra-Articular Calcaneal Fractures: A Comparative Study of the Postoperative Outcome between HA/PPLA Screws and Locking Plates

Calcaneus traction compression with orthopaedic reduction forceps combined with percutaneous minimally invasive treatment of intra-articular calcaneal fractures: An analysis of efficacy

BackgroundThe treatment of displaced calcaneal fractures is controversial.Open reduction and internal fixation are widely described as the gold standard in the literature,but these technique shave many complications,including skin necrosis,internal fixation leakage and deep infection and wound healing problems.Percutaneous reduction and unilateral external fixation have received increasing attention because they can provide a good, stable reduction and reduce the soft tissue complications caused by open surgery(such as deep infection and delayed wound healing).The purpose of this retrospective study was to evaluate the reduction imaging and clinical results of calcaneus traction compressionwith orthopaedic compression reduction forceps combined with percutaneous minimally invasive external fixation for intra-articular calcaneal fractures. MethodsThis was a retrospective analysis. A total of 35 patients with unilateral calcaneal fractures were divided into two groups: 1) the open reduction, internal fixation group (19 feet)and 2) the percutaneous minimally invasive, closed reduction external fixation group (16 feet).Evaluation of the reduction include dimaging measurements of the calcaneus length,width,and height,and the Bohler angle and Gissane angle before and after surgery.Clinical outcomes included the time of surgery,length of hospital stay,operation time,wound-related complications,the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society hindfoot score,the visual analogue score for pain, and the SF-36 score. ResultsThe average follow-up time was 25.52 ± 1.68 months.There was no significant difference in reduction between the open group and the closed group (P > 0.05).The operation time of the open group was significantly longer than that of the closed group(P = 0.0001).The length of hospitalization and waiting time for surgery in the open reduction group were significantly longer than those in the closed reduction group (P < 0.05).Incidence-related complications in the open group and closed group were 21.1 %(4/19) and 6.3 %(1/16),respectively (P = 0.0001).The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot scores in the open and closed groups were 81.35 ± 5.25 and 82.52 ± 4.78, respectively (P = 0.0875). The visual analogues cale (VAS) scores of the open group and the closed group were 1.81 ± 1.32 and 0.78 ± 0.91, respectively (P = 0.0412).The SF-36 scores were 80 ± 4.5 and 79 ± 4.2, respectively. ConclusionOur research shows that for various types of intra-articular calcaneal fractures compared with open reduction,internal plate fixation,calcaneus traction compression with orthopaedic reduction forceps combined with percutaneous minimally invasive external fixation is a simple and effective method for treating calcaneal fractures; not only can the calcaneus be corrected, but it can also provide notable imaging and clinical results.

Clinical and Radiological Outcomes of Minimally Invasive Reduction and Percutaneous K-wire Fixation for Intra-articular Calcaneal Fractures.

There has been much controversy over the optimal operative treatment of intra-articular calcaneal fractures. Open reduction and internal fixation is associated with a high incidence of postoperative soft tissue complications. This study sought to evaluate the outcomes of indirect reduction and percutaneous K-wire fixation for displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures. This was a prospective study of 40 consecutive patients with 44 Sanders type II or III intra-articular calcaneal fractures who had undergone closed or mini-open reduction and percutaneous K-wire fixation from 2013 to 2016. The Maryland Foot Score and visual analog scale score for pain were used to assess functional outcomes and postoperative patient satisfaction. Twenty-two patients were men and 18 patients were women, with a mean age of 34.5 years. According to the Sanders classification, 26 fractures were type II and 18 were type III. Mean follow-up was 31.9 months. The clinical outcome was satisfactory for 36 fractures (81.8%) and unsatisfactory for 8 fractures (18.2%). Mean time of radiological union was 8.7 weeks. Mean full weight-bearing time was 13 weeks. Mean visual analog scale score was 1.4 when radiographic fracture healing was detected. Repeated follow-up radiographs showed no loss of reduction or collapse of the posterior facet. Closed or mini-open reduction and percutaneous K-wire fixation of Sanders type II or III calcaneal fractures has excellent functional outcomes with minimal soft tissue complications. [Orthopedics. 2020; 43(2): 97-101.].

Sinus Tarsi Approach for Open Treatment and Internal Fixation of Displaced Intra-articular Calcaneal Fractures in High-Risk Patients: The New Gold Standard?

Category:Ankle, Diabetes, Hindfoot, TraumaIntroduction/Purpose:Intra-articular calcaneal fractures offer unique challenges. Wound problems and infection are significant complications in the surgical treatment of calcaneal fractures which in turn can be debilitating to patients and outcomes. The literature suggests varying wound complication rates but 21% up to 33% using the traditional extensile lateral approach in some studies. The extensile lateral approach has historically been accepted as the gold standard for fixation and treatment of these fractures. Recently there has been resurgent interest in alternative approaches to the fixation of intra-articular calcaneal fractures. Of interest is the potential of the sinus tarsi approach to decrease wound complications while having comparable reduction quality to the higher wound risk extensile lateral approach.Methods:A multi-center retrospective chart review study was implemented. The study objective was to review wound complication of the sinus tarsi approach compared with outcomes from the traditional extensile approach for fixation of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures. Specifically; examining a population of patients considered at high risk for wound issues, comparing radiographic and clinical outcomes.Results:In the high-risk group, only one primary complications resulted, including one patient with a history of an open fracture. All fractures healed with adequate maintenance of alignment. Chi- squared analysis resulted in a statistically significant difference in complication rates between sinus tarsi and the traditional extensile lateral approach at the 95% confidence level.Conclusion:In both high-risk and lower-risk cohorts of patients, a low rate of infection and wound problems was encountered. A limited approach through a sinus tarsi incision provides a viable option to treat displaced intra-articular calcaneus fracture patients with risk factors for wound issues. The patients all healed both their soft tissue wounds and fractures. Functional return was consistent with other study populations. Our study adds another cohort of patient data demonstrating the advantage of the sinus tarsi approach when compared to the extensile lateral in terms of decreased wound complications while maintaining quality of reductions and clinical outcomes.

Long-term mortality after internal fixation of calcaneal fractures: a retrospective study.

The aim of this study was to describe the mortality risk after calcaneal fractures which required internal fixation and evaluate predictors of survival. During the observed 11-year period (1995-2006), 178 consecutive patients underwent operative fixation for displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures. Patient demographics, mechanism of injury, and social deprivation (Carstairs index) were recorded. Mortality was obtained from patient notes. Causes of mortality were obtained from the national database. Standardised mortality ratios (SMRs) were calculated. Ten patients were lost to follow-up. Of the remaining 168 patients, the mean age was 41 (range 14-77) years. Females [n = 33, 46.3 standard deviation (SD) 17.1years] were significantly (difference 6.5years, 95% CI 1.1-11.9, p = 0.02) older than male patients (n = 135, 39.8 SD 13.4years). During the study period, 28 patients died. The overall unadjusted survival rate was 92.8% (95% CI 87.0-98.7) at 10years and 81.9% (95% CI 76.2-87.6) at 15years. The SMR at 10years was 5.2 (95% CI 2.8-13.3) for males and 1.4 (95% CI - 4.9 to 7.8) for females. Cox regression analysis demonstrated male gender to be a significant predictor of mortality (hazard ratio 2.77, 95% 3.83-9.65, p = 0.01) adjusted for age and social deprivation. Male patients requiring internal fixation of intra-articular calcaneal fractures have a significantly increased mortality risk compared to an age- and gender-matched population. Further study is warranted to fully identify the reasons behind this, which may enable their survival to be improved.Level of evidence Retrospective Cohort study, Level 4.

Minimally invasive open reduction and percutaneous fixation of intra-articular calcaneal fractures

Minimally invasive open reduction and percutaneous fixation of intra-articular calcaneal fractures

Percutaneous reduction and fixation of intraarticular calcaneal fractures: a series with 2-year follow-up

Background: Fractures of the calcaneus may occur with high-energy trauma. The gold standard management of fractures extending to the posterior facet is open reduction and plate fixation, but soft-tissue complications are frequent. The aim of this study was to evaluate the results of percutaneous reduction and fixation of intraarticular calcaneal fractures. Our hypothesis was that percutaneous fixation of Sanders type ΙΙ or ΙΙΙ articular calcaneal fractures provides good functional results with few complications. Methods: Between January 2014 and June 2017, 20 patients with intraarticular fractures of the calcaneus (30 feet) were treated with closed reduction and percutaneous fixation. The mean age of the patients was 30 yr (range 18–50 yr). All patients were assessed by radiographs and CT before and after surgery. Clinical and functional outcomes were assessed using the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Hind Foot Score. A P-value &lt;0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The mean follow-up period was 24.4±7.1 mo (18–30 mo). The postoperative mean AOFAS score was 88±4.7 points. There were statistically significant improvements in the postoperative means of both the Böhler and Gissane angles. Persistent postoperative pain was encountered in one patient, and another had a completely resolved mild superficial infection without major skin complications or deep infection. Conclusions: Percutaneous reduction and fixation of Sanders type ΙΙ and ΙΙΙ intra-articular calcaneal fractures had satisfactory clinical and radiographic results with minimal infection and soft-tissue morbidity.

A minimally invasive (sinus tarsi) approach with percutaneous K-wires fixation for intra-articular calcaneal fractures in children.

The aim of this study was to analyze the management of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures in children at our pediatric orthopedic and to determine the results following open reduction via minimally invasive sinus tarsi approach and fixation with Kirschner wires (K-wires). Overall, 25 available cases of calcaneal fractures in children with mean age of 9.8 years were treated by open reduction from January 2010 to December 2015. All patients were followed up from 12 to 30 months (mean: 19 months). Clinical functional outcomes were graded using the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society hindfoot scores. Radiographic evaluation included measurement of the Bohler’s angle and Gissane’s angle of the calcaneus on the lateral view. All fractures healed within 3 months. According to the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society foot scoring system, the mean scores of type II fractures were 92.7±2.1, type III 90.2±1.8, and type IV 89.7±2.7 at the latest follow-up. The preoperative and postoperative Bohler’s angles were 17.1°±10.7° and 35.9°±6.7° in Sanders type II fractures, 14.4°±11.5° and 34.7°±8.5° in type III, 9.3°±9.7° and 35.1°±4.9° in type IV, respectively. The preoperative and postoperative Gissane’s angles were 102.6°±11.5° and 125.7°±7.8° in Sanders type II fractures, 101.7°±9.1° and 117.5°±10.8° (P<0.05) in type III, and 104.7°±5.1° and 122.8°±9.1° (P<0.05) in type IV, respectively. No secondary arthrosis has been observed so far. No deep infection and wound necrosis occurred. One patient had superficial infection around K-wires that was managed using dressings. Treatment of calcaneal fractures in children by open reduction by sinus tarsi approach and K-wires fixation is a safe and effective method with low incidence of complications.

Subtalar arthroscopy and fluoroscopy in percutaneous fixation of intra-articular calcaneal fractures.

Percutaneous fixation of intra-articular calcaneal fractures is traditionally assisted only by intraoperative fluoroscopy. Previous studies have demonstrated that the additional use of subtalar arthroscopy in anatomical reduction of the posterior calcaneal facet of the subtalar joint for less complex calcaneal fractures yielded positive results up to 2-year follow-up. This study aims to investigate long-term outcomes of these patients using similar evaluation parameters. We hypothesized that this novel technique with dual-imaging can provide sustainable, long-term benefits with good functional outcomes and significant restoration of the Bohler's angle. We performed a retrospective study of 15 Sanders II, AO-OTA 83-C2 intra-articular calcaneal fractures in 14 patients who underwent subtalar arthroscopy and fluoroscopy guided percutaneous fracture fixation with a minimum follow-up of 5 years. Outcome measures were assessed using the ankle and hindfoot NPRS, AOFAS ankle-hindfoot score, and SF-36 Physical Function subscale preoperatively and at 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, 2 years and 5-8 years postoperatively. The Bohler's angle was measured preoperatively, immediately postoperatively and at 5-8 years postoperatively. We report excellent functional outcomes in all scores as well as continued improvements in the majority of patients across all time points with minimal subsidence of the corrected Bohler's angle over our study time frame. Subtalar arthroscopy with intraoperative fluoroscopy in anatomical reduction of the posterior calcaneal facet of the subtalar joint is most useful in Sanders type II, AO-OTA 83-C2 fractures with excellent functional outcomes and good preservation of the corrected Bohler's angle on long-term follow-up.

Monoaxial external fixation of the calcaneus: An anatomical study assessing the safety of monoaxial pin insertion

The use of external fixation for intra-articular calcaneal fractures is increasing in popularity. Studies have shown fine wire and monoaxial external fixation to be a viable surgical alternative to more invasive methods of open reduction and internal fixation of the calcaneus. However, there is an absence of literature that quantifies the risk of pin insertion for monoaxial fixation.This study aimed to determine the safety of inserting monoaxial pins within the calcaneus to house the Orthofix Calcaneal Mini-Fixator. Five formalin embalmed cadaveric ankle and lower leg specimens were inserted with six monoaxial pins. Careful dissection then revealed the presence of the tendons of peroneus longus and brevis, the sural nerve and the small saphenous vein in relation to these pins. Measurements from each pin to each of these structures were made as the structures transected lines drawn from each pin to two palpable bony landmarks: the inferior tip of the lateral malleolus and the posterosuperior calcaneus. In doing this, the risk posed by each pin could be evaluated. We found that two particular pins, those used to hold the articular surface of the subtalar joint in a reduced position, posed a larger risk of injury to surrounding structures than the remaining pins. These findings therefore suggest that monoaxial fixation of the calcaneus using a six pin approach is a relatively safe method of rectifying calcaneal fractures and thus may serve as a welcome alternative to other methods of calcaneal fixation.

Biomechanical comparison of conventional and anatomical calcaneal plates for the treatment of intraarticular calcaneal fractures – a finite element study

Initial stability is essential for open reduction internal fixation of intraarticular calcaneal fractures. Geometrical feature of a calcaneal plate is influential to its endurance under physiological load. It is unclear if conventional and pre-contoured anatomical calcaneal plates may exhibit differently in biomechanical perspective. A Sanders’ Type II-B intraarticular calcaneal fracture model was reconstructed to evaluate the effectiveness of calcaneal plates using finite element methods. Incremental vertical joint loads up to 450 N were exerted on the subtalar joint to evaluate the stability and safety of the calcaneal plates and bony structure. Results revealed that the anatomical calcaneal plate model had greater average structural stiffness (585.7 N/mm) and lower von Mises stress on the plate (774.5 MPa) compared to those observed in the conventional calcaneal plate model (stiffness: 430.9 N/mm; stress on plate: 867.1 MPa). Although both maximal compressive and maximal tensile stress and strain were lower in the anatomical calcaneal plate group, greater loads on fixation screws were found (average 172.7 MPa compared to 82.18 MPa in the conventional calcaneal plate). It was noted that high magnitude stress concentrations would occur where the bone plate bridges the fracture line on the lateral side of the calcaneus bone. Sufficient fixation strength at the posterolateral calcaneus bone is important for maintaining subtalar joint load after reduction and fixation of a Sanders’ Type II-B calcaneal fracture. In addition, geometrical design of a calcaneal plate should worth considering for the mechanical safety in practical usage.

Fixation of intra-articular calcaneal fractures aided by self-designed director for sustentaculum tali screwing

Objective To evaluate our self-designed director for sustentaculum tali screwing used to fixate intra-articular calcaneal fractures in comparison with a conventional screwing director. Methods From May 2012 to October 2013, a total of 40 patients received surgical treatment of intra-articular calcaneal fracture at our department. Our self-designed director for sustentaculum tali screwing was used in 20 of them (24 feet, group A) while a conventional screwing director was used in the other 20 patients (22 feet, group B). The 2 groups were compatible in preoperative clinical data, showing no significant differences (P>0.05). The operation time, fluoroscopy frequency, rate of accurate screwing, and Maryland foot scores were compared between the 2 groups. Results The patients were followed up for an average of 15 months (range, 12 to 24 months). Group A had shorter operation time (77.8±9.5 min) than group B (84.4±9.4 min), lower fluoroscopy frequency (2.5±0.9 times) than group B (4.1±1.3 times), a higher rate of accurate screwing (91.7%) than group B (68.2%), and a higher excellent to good rate by Maryland foot scoring (91.7%) than group B (63.6%). The above differences were all statistically significant (P< 0.05). Conclusion In the treatment of intraarticular calcaneal fractures, our self-designed director for sustentaculum tali screwing can significantly enhance the accuracy in fixation of sustentaculum tali to ensure good clinical outcomes. Key words: Calcaneus; Fractures, bone; Fracture fixation, internal; Director for sustentaculum tali screwing

A minimally invasive sinus tarsi approach with percutaneous plate and screw fixation for intra-articular calcaneal fractures

According to characteristic of anatomical structure of calcaneus and sinus tarsi approach, the minimally invasive plate for treatment of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures had been designed. Here we aimed to review the effect of this treatment. Forty intra-articular calcaneal fractures in 38 patients from September 2006 to September 2008 were treated with percutaneous plate via sinus tarsi approach under the monitoring of C-shaped arms. All calcaneal anatomical parameters, including height, width, length, Böhlers angle and Gissane angle were measured by X-ray before and after surgery. Postoperative lateral wound healing was also evaluated and clinical functional outcomes were graded using the Maryland foot score. All patients had been followed up for an average of 12 months ranged from 3 months to 24 months. X-ray indicated satisfactory restoration of the calcaneal height, width, length, Böhlers angle and Gissanes angle. Maryland foot score demonstrated that excellent result was achieved in 32 cases, good in 6 cases, fair in 2 cases, and the excellent and good rate was 95%. Postoperative complications were not found in all fractured feet. Our results suggest that this minimally invasive sinus tarsi approach with new designed plate and screw fixation technique for the treatment of intra-articular calcaneal fractures can not only obtain the satisfactory outcomes, but also can effectively prevent surgical complications.

Minimally invasive treatment of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures using the balloon kyphoplasty technique: Preliminary study

The balloon kyphoplasty approach to the treatment of vertebral fractures can be adapted to achieve the reduction and cement stabilisation of intra-articular compression fractures at other sites, such as the calcaneus. We studied six patients with a median follow-up of 12 months (range, 6-30 months). Fluoroscopy guidance was used to obtain optimal balloon positioning under the joint depression site. Reduction was achieved by expanding the balloon and stabilisation by injecting the cavity with resorbable tricalcium-phosphate cement in the younger patients and polymethyl-metacrylate cement in the two elderly patients with osteoporosis. No internal fixation was used. No intra-operative, postoperative, or delayed complications were recorded. Median hospital stay length was 4.5 days (range, 3-7 days). All the fractures healed within the usual timeframe, without loss of reduction. Median time to full weight-bearing ambulation was 52.5 days (range, 15-75 days). The functional outcomes correlated with the good anatomic results, with a median American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society score of 87.0 (range, 86-97). This preliminary study shows that balloon reduction and cement fixation of intra-articular calcaneal fractures is easy to perform, reproducible, and devoid of specific complications. Good-quality reduction and stabilisation until fracture healing were achieved, and time to recovery of self-sufficiency was short, even in elderly patients with osteoporosis. These results support the use of this minimally invasive technique. Level IV, retrospective study.

Evaluation of treatment of calcaneal fractures with a modified approach in a peripheral setting: a cost-effective model

We present the results of open reduction and internal fixation of intra-articular calcaneal fractures with Kirschner wires with some modifications. A longitudinal study was done on 37 patients who had fallen from certain heights; the study subjects were predominantly construction workers. Forty-seven fractures of the study subjects were treated using a modified approach that includes incision and some tips in operative technique. Details of modification and their evaluation on the basis of restoration of heel shape with special attention to the lateral wall, radiological assessment of Bohler’s angle, varus and valgus movement of the heel, pain while walking, patient satisfaction assessment upon return to pre-injury work are elaborated in this paper. Duration of study was from January 2000 to May 2011. The fractures healed well with good radiological and functional outcomes, and patients returned to pre-injury work status in 4–6 months. The need to change to the Kocher approach for the treatment of calcaneal fracture with right-angled incision and elevation of the lateral flap is not necessary if the surgical tips showed in this paper are followed meticulously to achieve a good soft tissue outcome initially and, eventually, a good bony radiological and functional outcome. As implants used are very cheap and affordable to workers of low socioeconomic status, the authors have developed this method and presently believe that this method is best for all classes of patients with the said problem.