[Pathologic changes in the hindfoot angle following fracture of the calcaneus]

Forty fractured calcanei (13 without and 27 with involvement of the joint) were examined by CT and the angle of the hind foot measured. Following a typical compression fracture there is a negative calcaneus-valgus angle, i.e. varus deformity of the tuberosity fragment. The sustentaculum angle is increased. There are changes in the talo-calcaneal and calcaneo-cuboidal angles. The length ratio of calcaneus to talus is reduced. Reproducible measurements make it possible to compare the results of operative correction and of changes in shape following conservative treatment, e.g. during weight-bearing.