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The split-heel technique in the management of chronic calcaneal osteomyelitis in children
Enbo Wang1, Qun Zhao, Lijun Zhang
1Department of Pediatric Orthopaedics, The Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China. wangenbodor@hotmail.com
Insights
The split-heel technique offers superior outcomes for pediatric chronic calcaneal osteomyelitis compared to traditional methods. This approach in children over 5 years old resulted in excellent functional and cosmetic recovery.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Pediatric Osteomyelitis
Background:
- Chronic calcaneal osteomyelitis in children presents significant treatment challenges.
- Conventional surgical approaches (medial/lateral) have limitations for extensive plantar infections.
Observation:
- Three pediatric cases (5.5-11 years) of chronic calcaneal osteomyelitis were treated.
- The split-heel surgical technique was employed for operative debridement.
Findings:
- The split-heel technique demonstrated clear advantages over conventional methods.
- Excellent functional and cosmetic results were achieved in all cases.
- Follow-up periods ranged from 3 to 10 years.
Implications:
- The split-heel approach is a viable and effective surgical option for pediatric chronic calcaneal osteomyelitis.
- This technique may improve patient outcomes and reduce long-term morbidity.
- Further research should explore wider application and long-term efficacy.
Abstract:
The split-heel technique has distinct advantages over the conventional medial or lateral approach in the operative debridement of extensive and predominantly plantar chronic calcaneal osteomyelitis in children above 5 years of age. We report three cases (age 5.5-11 years old) of chronic calcaneal osteomyelitis in children treated using the split-heel approach with 3-10 years follow-up showing excellent functional and cosmetic results.
