We reviewed in retrospect the preliminary results of ilizarov type fixator for the treatment of severely comminuted calcaneal fractures.

Between February 2006 and December 2008 we dealt with six severely comminuted calcaneal fractures in six patients. Two of which were open type Gustillo IIIa. Mean age was 43 years old(28–56 years old) two of which were female and four male. Preoperatively all fractures were checked by x-ray and computed tomography and were all rated as Sanders type IV. The open fractures were treated within 6 hours and the closed ones the following day. After the positioning of the ilizarov tibial and foot frame, an indirect reduction was achieved using the Ilizarov olive wires.

Mean follow up was 20 months (9 to 36 months). Results were rated as very good in two patients (33%), good in three patients (50%) and fair in one (17%).

So far no re-operation has been required and four of the patients are back to work.

We conclude that the ilizarov system, even with indirect reduction can give very promising results in severely comminuted and complex calcaneal fractures whereas internal fixation has questionable success and many complications