Anatomy of the calcaneus

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Foot and ankle anatomy
• Skeletal biomechanics

Background:

• The calcaneus, the largest tarsal bone, is vital for weight-bearing and absorbs significant forces.
• High impact loads can lead to calcaneal fractures, necessitating detailed anatomical understanding for effective treatment.
• Medial and lateral anatomical features influence surgical approaches and potential complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To elucidate the anatomical considerations for treating calcaneal fractures.
• To highlight the relationship between calcaneal anatomy and surgical approaches.
• To emphasize the importance of anatomical knowledge for fracture management.

Main Methods:

• Review of anatomical literature concerning the calcaneus.
• Analysis of neurovascular structures and their relation to surgical approaches.
• Examination of articular surfaces and their radiographic assessment.
• Correlation of soft tissue envelope with potential complications like skin necrosis.

Main Results:

• The calcaneus is structured to withstand substantial forces but is susceptible to fracture.
• Medial neurovascular structures are protected by soft tissues but are vulnerable during medial surgical approaches.
• Lateral bony landmarks are palpable due to minimal soft tissue coverage, and lateral approaches carry risks of arterial compromise and skin necrosis.
• The four articular surfaces of the calcaneus can be evaluated using radiography.

Conclusions:

• A comprehensive understanding of calcaneal bony and soft tissue anatomy is essential for developing rational strategies for calcaneal fracture assessment and treatment.
• Awareness of anatomical risks associated with medial and lateral surgical approaches is critical for patient safety.
• Radiographic assessment of articular congruity aids in fracture evaluation.