[Advantages in the diagnosis and classification of intra-articular fractures of the calcaneus using computed tomography]

The superiority of CT over conventional radiography in demonstrating intra-articular fractures of the os calcis was demonstrated in 34 patients. The advantages consist in being able to demonstrate the joint without superposition and the exact demonstration of the position, size, shape and number of fragments. Shortening or widening of the os calcis can be easily recognized, as well as fractures of the medial or lateral cortex. At the same time it is possible to evaluate soft tissues, particularly the peroneal ligament. The conventional classification of calcaneal fractures has been newly evaluated in the light of the ability to recognize involvement of the joint and the course of the main fracture lines.