Calcaneal lengthening for partial traumatic loss of the calcaneus

The purpose of this article was to introduce calcaneal lengthening for partial traumatic loss of the calcaneus. Effectiveness with the use of the technique was also assessed.

From January 2013 to May 2016, calcaneal lengthening was performed in 15 patients who sustained a partial traumatic loss of the tuberosity portion of calcaneus. There were 13 men and 2 women with an average age of 36 years (range, 19-53 years). Combined Achilles tendon rupture was noted in 7 patients, and the tendon was reinserted to the calcaneus before calcaneal lengthening. Calcaneal lengthening was performed using an Ilizarov frame. Clinical outcome was assessed based on the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle score.

The mean loss of calcaneus was 27% (range, 19%-35%). Calcaneal lengthening (mean total time is157 days; range, 111-226 days) included three periods, i.e., latency (mean 7 days; range, 7-9 days), distraction (mean 43 days; range, 32-57 days), and consolidation (mean 108 days; range, 84-162 days). The mean amount of lengthening was 28% (range, 19%-38%). The mean follow-up duration was 25 months (range, 24-27 months). Based on the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle, there were 8 excellent, 6 good, and 1 fair result.

For the treatment of partial traumatic loss of the calcaneus, calcaneal lengthening using an Ilizarov frame is a preferable technique to restore the length of calcaneus and foot function.