Abstract
Between June 1996 and April 2002, 56 patients underwent closed reduction and percutaneous fixation of calcaneal fractures. Of the 39 men and 17 woman, five were lost to follow-up. The patients’ mean age was 38 years (17 to 64). Four had bilateral procedures.
Using the AOFAS Ankle and Hindfoot Scale (AHS) and Visual Analogue Pain Scale (VAPS), we assessed patients preoperatively and at 6 and 12-monthly intervals. Clinical examination was undertaken preoperatively and postoperatively at 2-week, 6-week, 3-month, 6-month and 12-monthly intervals. Except at two weeks, radiographs included weight-bearing axial and lateral views at all intervals. Follow-up was for a mean period of 42 months (12 to 72). The mean time to union was 10.2 weeks (8 to 14).
The AHS improved from 34 preoperatively to 85 at the most recent follow-up. The VAPS improved from 9.1 preoperatively to 2.2 at three years. The satisfaction rate was 86%. Functional results depended on the quality of the reduction of the posterior facet and the severity of the initial injury. Complications included a 5% sural nerve injury and a 3% peroneal tendinopathy. No wound complications were encountered.
In selected cases, closed reduction and internal fixation of calcaneal fractures may produce results similar to those of conventional open reduction and internal fixation, with fewer complications. This technique is best performed within 24 to 72 hours of injury.
The abstracts were prepared by Professor M. B. E. Sweet. Correspondence should be addressed to him at PO Box 47363, Parklands, Johannesburg 2121, South Africa.
