Publication: Functional outcome of operatively treated displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures using two parallel contoured reconstruction plates
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Date
2010
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Kathmandu University
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction: The treatment of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fracture is controversial. Conventionally, they were
treated non-operatively. However, some surgeons are now operatively treating these fractures because of continuing
dissatisfaction with the outcome of conservative treatment of these fractures and improvements that have occurred in
surgical techniques and complication rates.
Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the functional outcome of operatively treated displaced intra-articular
calcaneal fractures using two parallel contoured reconstruction plates.
Materials and methods: 12 patients with 14 displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures involving the subtalar joint
were included in the study conducted between July 2005 and December 2008. The fracture site was exposed using
extended lateral approach. Internal fixation was done by two nearly parallel 3.5mm reconstruction plates and screws
contoured to form a gentle curve in all cases with the first plate fixed just below the articular surface. At the end of
follow up, the patients' foot function was assessed by Calcaneal Fracture Scoring System of Kerr et al. Patients were also
enquired about their satisfaction with their treatment outcome.
Results: The patients were followed up for duration of 12 to 24 months (mean 15.64 months). The outcome score as
measured by Calcaneal Fracture Scoring System ranged from 48 to 94 (mean 83.64). 11 of 12 patients (91.6 %) were
satisfied with the treatment.
Conclusion: Displaced intra-articular fractures treated by open reduction and internal fixation, using two nearly parallel,
contoured reconstruction plates through an extensile lateral approach and following the principles of treatment of intra-
articular fractures, have good functional results with high patient satisfaction rate.
Key words: displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures, operative treatment.
Description
Lakhey S 1, Manandhar RR 2, Pradhan RL 3 , Pandey BK2, Sharma S 4, Rijal KP5
1Associate Professor, 2Lecturer, 3Assistant Professor, 4Senior Resident, 5Professor, Department of Orthopaedics, Kathmandu Medical College, Sinamangal, Nepal