Abstract
Calcaneal fracture fixation over the past decade has been practised via an extensile lateral incision. This can be complicated by infection and wound breakdown.
We have developed a new technique for fixation of the calcaneal fractures – MACO. We utilise a 4 cm sub fibular incision to aid joint visualisation and fracture reduction. Fixation is via percutaneous screws.
We analysed our prospectively collected database. 26 fractures were fixed over an 18 month period at Glasgow Royal Infirmary by three consultant surgeons. 22 patients were male and half were smokers. Mean follow up was 5 months (range 1.5 – 18 months).
The mean age of our patients is 41 (range 25–68). The mean pre operative Bohler's angle was 16.7 degrees. Gissane's angle was similarly abnormal with a mean of 129 degrees.
The average duration of surgery was 73 minutes (range 45–100 minutes). Post operatively, Bohler's angle was improved. The mean was 29 degrees. There was no significant difference with Gissane's angle. The mean was 128 degrees.
There were no superficial wound infections. One patient was troubled by wound breakdown with subsequent deep infection. There was no need for metalwork removal in our series of patients. Two patients developed post traumatic osteoarthritis of the sub talar joint. Only one has required sub talar joint fusion.
We conclude that the novel technique which we describe is successful in restoring calcaneal anatomy with few complications. Further follow up is needed to determine the long term outcomes of such surgery.
