Arthroscopic management of late complications of calcaneal fractures

To review retrospectively the results of arthroscopic management of late complications of calcaneal fractures.

Fifty patients (32 males, 18 females) with late complications of calcaneal fractures were managed arthroscopically. The median age at the time of arthroscopic surgery was 45 (19-63) years old. Detailed history taking, physical examination, standing lateral radiograph of the foot and axial view of the calcaneus and computed tomogram study were performed in all of the patients in order to identify the sources of symptoms. The arthroscopic treatment was then planned accordingly. The patients were assessed according to the AOFAS ankle-hindfoot score and the standing radiographs of the foot and ankle, both preoperatively and at the latest follow-up consultation.

A median of 1 arthroscopic procedure was performed for each patient (range, 1-4). The median follow-up after the latest arthroscopic surgery was 49 (range, 24-85 months) months. In all of the cases, the symptoms improved after the arthroscopic surgery and all the arthrodesis sites healed. The overall median preoperative AOFAS ankle-hindfoot score was 60.5 (27-75). The overall median AOFAS ankle-hindfoot score at the time of latest follow-up was 90 (73-100).

The arthroscopic approach focuses on the patient's symptoms. It is a feasible approach to alleviate patient's symptoms. Detailed history taking and clinical examination to determine the sources of the patient's symptoms are the keys to success.