Fractures of the calcaneus: open reduction and internal fixation from the medial side a 21-year prospective study

Since 1974, 61 displaced fractures of the calcaneus have been treated by open reduction and internal fixation by a modified medial approach technique. Surgery was performed through a 5-cm incision posterior to the neurovascular bundle. A single threaded pin was passed longitudinally through the tuberosity and into the sustentacular fragment, giving stable fixation. Reduction of the depressed posterior facet fragments was accomplished from the medial side in 77% of cases, occasionally assisted by fluoroscopy. Postoperatively all fractures were immobilized in a cast for 4 weeks. At the end of 4 weeks the pin was removed, and full weight bearing in a walking cast was started and continued for 4 weeks. At 8 weeks after surgery, the walking cast was removed, and the patient began walking in a shoe. These cases were evaluated at a mean follow-up of 4.4 years. There were 49 successful cases (80.3%) and 12 unsuccessful cases (19.7%). A high number of superior results was found in the successful group as shown by the mean score of 94.7 (American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society Scoring System). Time to return to work was a mean of 4.9 months.