Abstract
1. Five cases of avulsion fracture of the calcaneus are reported.
2. The "beak" fracture of the calcaneus is thought to be a variant of the avulsion fracture and not a separate entity.
3. The variable attachment of the calcaneal tendon to the calcaneus is described, and its relationship to the different forms of avulsion fractures discussed.
4. Operative reduction and fixation are appropriate for young and active patients in order to restore full heel-cord function.
5. Attention is drawn to the risk of pressure necrosis of skin overlying a displaced fragment. Early operative correction may be required to prevent skin damage.