Mini-Open-Assisted Screw Fixation for Displaced Intra-Articular Calcaneus Fractures: Three Case Reports of Patients...

Displaced intra-articular calcaneus fractures (DIACFs) are debilitating injuries often resulting from a fall from height or motor vehicle accidents. Traditional fixation methods involve extended incisions that can lead to soft tissue breakdown or necrosis. Novel techniques such as percutaneous fixation augmented by mini-open sinus tarsi approaches are theoretically associated with fewer soft tissue complications while achieving noninferior reduction and fixation. We introduced this technique to our peripheral hospital and completed this study as part of a departmental audit and self-critique. This descriptive case series includes three patients with DIACF who underwent fixation with the aforementioned novel technique and were followed up to observe radiological and clinical outcomes including Bohler's angle correction, pain, return to work and quantitative scoring systems. All patients had much improved Bohler's angle corrections (mean 35°) and were able to return to work following surgery. There were no wound issues. Our study suggests that excellent fixation of DIACFs can be achieved with a limited sinus tarsi incision and percutaneous screw fixation-without any compromise to postoperative function or soft tissue.