Rodríguez RS, Benítez GR, Oliva RC

Language: English
References: 17
Page: 34-38
PDF size: 80.21 Kb.

ABSTRACT

Calcaneal fractures account for 60% of tarsal fractures, mostly in males in their productive age resulting in a considerable economic impact. They are still a major challenge for orthopedic surgeons because of the controversy in terms of management. Through a prospective, cross section, descriptive, and observation study, we analyzed 20 fractures in 16 patients. The average age was 44 years. The most affected side was the left side. The main cause was a long fall. It occurred as an isolated fracture in 65% of cases and in association with other injuries in the remaining 35%. In all cases open reduction, joint surface restoration and fixation with a special AO calcaneum plate, with or without bone graft, were performed. The most common complication was dehiscence of the wound in 20% of cases. The average follow up time was 20 months with excellent results in seven cases (35%), good in 12 (60%) of cases and fair in one (5%) case according to the Maryland functional evaluation for fractures of the calcaneum. Calcaneal fractures occur because of a high energy release mechanism so that a comprehensive assessment of the patient is required to rule out associated injuries. It is an injury that should be treated by an experienced surgeon.

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