Calcaneus Fracture Fixation in Prone Position: A Novel Technique and Case Series

Calcaneus is one of the most commonly fractured tarsal bones. The use of computed tomography (CT) has enabled more accurate fracture configuration and classification of fractures. The outcomes of operative versus nonoperative treatment of these fractures have been extensively debated with variable results. Significant complications following intra-articular fractures have been reported in the literature despite management by experienced surgeons. This article will discuss the treatment of calcaneus fractures by open reduction and internal fixation in a prone position with a calcaneal traction pin, and assess the outcomes following this novel technique.

Fifty-three patients with 58 acute displaced intra-articular calcaneal closed fractures (Sanders type II and III), presented to one tertiary center, were treated by open reduction and internal fixation in a distracted prone position through an extensile lateral approach by a single surgeon and assessed for postoperative wound and soft tissue complications. The primary outcome measure was postoperative wound complications. Secondary outcome measures were postoperative ankle and subtalar range of motion and return to work. Radiological assessment of anatomical reduction by measuring preoperative and postoperative Bohler's angle, Gissane angle, and posterior facet joint depression was conducted. A comparison was made with paired sample t-test with a confidence interval of 95%.

Fifty-three patients with 58 calcaneus fractures were treated surgically. Three cases (5.6%) developed postoperative wound infection, of which only one needed surgical intervention. The reoperation rate was 5.6% in our study. Half of the patients (50%) were able to be followed up long-term, and the radiographs showed significant restoration of Bohler's angle and posterior facet joint depression in 24 patients. Return to full duties was achieved in an average of 5.6 months for 16 of 22 patients, who were available for follow-up questions with regard to return-to-work status.

Operative treatment of calcaneus fracture by open reduction and internal fixation in the novel distracted prone position technique has shown a low rate of the wound and soft tissue complications and can be considered as an alternative approach in treating these fractures.