Intra-articular Calcaneal Fracture Fixation Complicated by a Traumatic Chylous Effusion: A Case Report

This is a rare case describing the management of a traumatic chylous effusion discovered during operative fixation of a Sanders type III calcaneus fracture in a 58-year-old man, sustained after a fall from height. Chylous effusions are uncommon and can mimic septic arthritis. Given the concern for possible infection intraoperatively, provisional K-wire-assisted reduction was performed and definitively maintained through antibiotic mixed polymethylmethacrylate cement. Despite foregoing traditional fixation techniques, an excellent outcome was achieved.

This case outlines the use of antibiotic cement as a reduction aid for an intra-articular calcaneus fracture in the setting of a traumatic chylous effusion.