Abstract:

BACKGROUND: With the in-depth understanding of foot biomechanics and calcaneal fracture, the curative effect on intra-articular calcaneal fracture continues to be improved.
OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of nonlocking compression plates on intra-articular calcaneal fractures.
METHODS: We performed 52 osteosynthesis (46 patients) of intra-articular calcaneal fractures using the standard extended lateral approach from February 2004 to October 2007. Nonlocking calcaneal plates were performed in the 46 patients. Preoperatively, all patients were checked by three-dimensional CT. According to Sander’s type, there were 20 feet of Ⅱ fracture, 16 of Ⅲ fracture, and 16 of Ⅳ fractures. Reconstruction of the calcaneal shape was attempted. During operation, we performed Kirschner wire assisted subtalar distraction bone block and osteosynthesis with lateral-wall compression plate insertion in all cases. The patients were evaluated by the Maryland Scale.
RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: All 46 patients were followed up for 1-3 years. Poor wound healing was in 2/46 cases, and traumatic arthritis in 4 cases. No patient had deep osseous infection. According to the Maryland Scale, good was in 38 feet, fair in 9 feet and poor in 3 feet, with an excellent rate of 90%. Kirschner wire assisted plate fixation plus local bone graft is satisfied in the treatment of intra-articular calcaneal fractures.