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[Fractures of the calcaneus]
J Palarcík1, P Bucek, J Vopelka
1Urazová nemocnice, Brno.
Summary
Open reduction and screw fixation for calcaneal fractures yielded good outcomes, with most patients satisfied. However, external fixation showed poorer results, suggesting open reduction remains a primary treatment for these complex fractures.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Trauma Surgery
Background:
- Fractures of the calcaneum (heel bone) are complex injuries often requiring surgical intervention.
- Comparing treatment outcomes is crucial for optimizing patient care and surgical techniques.
Observation:
- A retrospective study compared open reduction with screw fixation (ORIF) to external fixation for calcaneal fractures.
- ORIF group (1994-1996) showed 12 excellent, 6 good, and 2 poor results, with high patient satisfaction.
- External fixation group (1997 onwards) had 8 excellent, 13 good, and 15 poor results, with lower satisfaction.
Findings:
- ORIF demonstrated superior outcomes compared to external fixation in terms of excellent/good results and patient satisfaction.
- External fixation was associated with a higher incidence of poor outcomes and complications like talocalcaneal fusion.
Implications:
- Open reduction and internal fixation with screws remain a primary surgical method for calcaneal fractures.
- Further research may explore refined external fixation techniques or patient selection criteria to improve outcomes.