Intra-articular fractures of the calcaneum.
A method of reducing deformity of displaced, intra-articular fractures of the calcaneum is described, together with a programme of management aimed at restoring a painless and mobile foot. The clinical and radiographic results are presented in 41 patients treated over a 10-year-period, with a minimum follow-up of 2 years. The complications, none of which were serious, are described. The results are compared with a group of 52 patients whose fractures were treated over the same period by early movements without any attempt at reduction. Although disabling pain was not a notable feature in either group, more patients in the reduced group had resumed work of a heavy nature entailing climbing or walking on rough ground. Analysis of the figures suggests that this is related to the better function regained in the subtalar joint by this group.
D002111:Calcaneus / Q000293:injuries*; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D005592:Fracture Fixation / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans