O1424 ORIF IN DISPLACED INTRAARTICULAR FRACTURES OF THE CALCANEUS

Abstract

Aims: In prospective study the author asked, what are the results of ORIF (open reduction, internal fixation) in displaced intraarticular fractures of the calcaneus, and whether type of fracture and/or congruity in the sub-talar joint influence these results. Methods: Forty-three displaced intraarticular fractures of the calcaneus (30 Type II, 10 Type III and 3 Type IV; Sanders) were operated through extensile lateral approach. After reduction of the subtalar joint and restoration of the calcaneus shape, the fracture was fixed with the calcaneal plate. Mostly, surgery was delayed (median: day 7). Motion was encouraged immediately, partial weight-bearing after 5–6 weeks, and full weight-bearing after 3–4 month. Following surgery subtalar joint was congruent in 33 (77%) and non-congruent (within 2mm) in ten fractures. Results: Thirtysix fractures were evaluated 12 to 61 months postinjury. Functional results were satisfactory in 31 fractures (86%) and not satisfactory in five. All fractures with unsatisfactory results were comminutive (Type III or IV). Four fractures with congruent subtalar joint had unsatisfactory, whereas eight of nine fractures with uncongruent joint had satisfactory result. Statistically, functional results of the comminuted fractures were significantly worse (p=0,002). However, functional results of fractures with non-congruent joint were comparable to the results of fractures with congruent joint. Conclusions: ORIF enables satisfactory results in majority of displaced intraarticular fractures of the calcaneus. Comminution in the subtalar joint is a negative prognostic factor; furthermore, comminution is a negative prognostic factor irrespectless of the postreduction congruity in the subtalar joint, if step-off is less than 2mm.