Calcaneal fractures: what the surgeon needs to know

The calcaneus is an uncommonly fractured bone that plays a critical role in foot biomechanics, weight-bearing, and the ability to wear a shoe. The radiologist acts as a consultant during screening, operative planning, and follow-up imaging of these often complex injuries. Effective communication between radiologist and surgeon requires an understanding of calcaneal anatomy, goals of surgical reduction, and factors that affect patient management and outcomes. In the following pictorial review we will discuss radiologic screening/classification/characterization and their correlation with surgical management and patient morbidity.