Intraarticular calcaneal fractures. Results of closed treatment

Thirty intraarticular calcaneal fractures were studied by computed tomography and then treated with a variety of closed methods. A classification of the fractures was devised according to the amount of displacement of the posterior facet. Follow-up evaluation showed that Type I fractures recovered function and healed extremely well. Closed treatment should be the treatment of choice for Type I fracture patterns. Type II and III fractures had unacceptable results with closed treatment. Alternate forms of treatment should be considered in dealing with more severely displaced fractures.