Operative Versus Nonoperative Treatment for Displaced Intra-Articular Calcaneal Fractures: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Postoperative 3D computed tomographic evaluation of 92 calcaneal fracture reduction using the sinus tarsi technique and fixation with 3.5 mm cortical screws

BACKGROUND

Fixation of calcaneus through the sinus tarsi approach is increasingly popular due to the lower rate of wound complications. The use of postoperative CT provided a better evaluation tool than using plain radiography. Our objective of the present study is to evaluate the quality of fracture reductions by postoperative 3D CT scans after surgical intervention using the sinus tarsi approach and fixation with 3.5 cortical screws.

METHODS

Between January 2018 and April 2020, 86 consecutive patients with 92 closed displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures underwent ORIF with 3.5 mm screws constructed via a minimally invasive sinus tarsi approach by a single foot and ankle surgeon.

RESULTS

The preoperative radiographic assessment found 36 joint depression type and 56 tongue type fractures according to the Essex-Lopresti classification. Preoperative CT assessment found 82 type II and 10 type III according to the Sander classification. Analysis of pre- and postoperative CT parameters showed that the height of the posterior facet, the length of the posterior facet, Gissane, and Bohler's angle were significantly improved. In addition, the means of posterior facet step-off in postoperative CT was 1.07, and 72% of posterior facet reductions were < 2 mm step-offs.

CONCLUSION

With postoperative CT scan assessment, the treatment of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fracture with 3.5 mm screws via sinus tarsi approach has achieved good quality of reduction. Therefore, the screws-only technique is an option for treating calcaneal fracture with less soft tissue damage and implant cost.

Radiological outcomes following open versus percutaneous fixation versus arthroscopically assisted percutaneous fixation of calcaneal fractures: a ten-year retrospective observational study

BACKGROUND

Calcaneal fractures are often major injuries associated with considerable morbidity. The optimal surgical management of displaced calcaneal fractures remains contentious with open, percutaneous and arthroscopically assisted percutaneous approaches all offering potential benefits for patients. The aim of this study was to assess which of these three separate surgical approaches to the management of displaced calcaneal fractures provides the best radiographic deformity correction.

METHODS

This is a retrospective observational study of all calcaneal fractures undergoing operative fixation at a single major trauma centre in the UK. The primary outcome was pre- and post-operative assessment of the deformity correction using radiographic parameters (angle of Gissane and Bohler's angle). Secondary outcomes included fracture configuration, complications and re-operation rate.

RESULTS

Between 01/01/2009 and 31/12/2019, 152 calcaneal fractures in 134 patients underwent operative management via either an open or percutaneous approach. One-way ANOVA testing of the pre- and post-operative radiographic parameters demonstrated that an open approach offered superior post-operative correction of Bohler's angle when compared to percutaneous alone (p < 0.05); however, there was no difference in post-operative angle of Gissane (p > 0.05). The mean follow-up for complication and re-operation data was 3.5 years (range 0.1-12.4). Overall complication rate following all surgical fixation was 7.2% with a further 32.2% requiring further long-term surgical intervention for subtalar arthritis or removal of metalwork.

CONCLUSION

Arthroscopically assisted percutaneous fixation does not offer superior radiographic deformity correction compared to percutaneous technique alone. Open fixation yielded improved correction of Bohler's angle when compared to percutaneous alone; however, there was no difference in post-operative angle of Gissane.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

External fixation in intra-articular fractures of the calcaneus: Is it a valid option as definitive treatment?

INTRODUCTION

The therapeutic management of calcaneal fractures is currently a major source of controversy in the literature. There is no consensus on the need to treat these injuries conservatively or surgically, nor on the criteria for deciding one option or the other. Although the gold standard has classically been the open approach and osteosynthesis, there are currently minimally invasive techniques that also report good results. Our objective is to present our results and experience with the MBA® Orthofix external fixator in a series of cases of calcaneal fractures.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective observational study in our center, between the years 2019 and 2021, of Sanders types II-IV calcaneal fractures operated with MBA® Orthofix external fixator. We recorded a total of 38 patients, 42 fractures. We registered demographic information, intraoperative, postoperative, radiological and functional parameters, using the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS), Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire (MOXFQ), EQ-5D and VAS scales.

RESULTS

A total of 26 men and 12 women were included, and the median age was 38 years. Mean follow-up was 24,4 months (6, 8-40, 1). The average time to surgery was 7 days and partial loading was started at 2.5 weeks after external fixation, which was removed at 9.2 weeks. The average Böhler angle correction was 7, 4°, Gissane - 12,2°, length 2 mm and calcaneal width was reduced by 5 mm. We recorded two superficial infections, one peroneal entrapment and three subtalar arthrodesis due to post-traumatic osteoarthritis. The AOFAS obtained was 79.1 + / - 15.7 points, MOXFQ 20.1 + / - 16.1 points, EQ-5D 0.84 + / - 0.2 and VAS 3.3 + / - 1.9.

CONCLUSION

The external fixator is an excellent surgical alternative for complex articular fractures of the calcaneus, obtaining clinical and radiological results comparable to other osteosynthesis techniques and significantly reducing soft tissue complications.

[Surgical treatment of intra-articular calcaneus fractures with plate osteosynthesis via the sinus tarsi approach]

OBJECTIVE

Surgical treatment of intra-articular calcaneus fractures via a minimally invasive approach.

INDICATIONS

Intra-articular dislocated calcaneus fractures.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Fracture older than 14 days; poor soft tissue quality in the surgical area.

SURGICAL TECHNIQUE

Patient in lateral position. Identifying the anatomic landmarks. Incision (3-5 cm) from the tip of the fibula to metatarsal IV. Preparation through the subcutis. Retraction of the peroneal tendons. Preparation of the lateral calcaneal wall and later plate position via raspatory. Placement of a Schanz screw in the calcaneal tuberosity from lateral or posterior as a reduction aid for restoring of the calcaneal length and reduction of the hindfoot varus. Reduction of the sustentaculum fragment with the help of fluoroscopy from lateral. Elevation of the subtalar articular surface. Positioning of the calcaneal plate and fixation of the sustentaculum fragment by placing a cannulated screw through the long hole. Afterwards, definite internal fixation of the reduction with locking screws. Completion of the operation with final X‑rays and, if available, an intraoperative computed tomography. Wound closure with closing of the peroneal sheath.

POSTOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT

Lower leg-foot orthoses. Mobilization with partial weight-bearing of the injured foot with 15 kg for 6-8 weeks; subsequently increased load bearing.

RESULTS

Due to the smaller incision and the associated lower soft tissue trauma, the risk of wound healing complications can be reduced. Radiographic and functional outcomes are comparable to the outcomes of calcaneal fractures treated via the extended lateral approach.

Surgical versus non-surgical interventions for displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures

BACKGROUND

Fractures of the calcaneus (heel bone) comprise up to 2% of all fractures. These fractures are mostly caused by a fall from a height, and are common in younger adults. Treatment can be surgical or non-surgical; however, there is clinical uncertainty over optimal management. This is an update of a Cochrane Review first published in 2013.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effects (benefits and harms) of surgical versus conservative treatment of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Bone, Joint and Muscle Trauma Group Specialised Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, and clinical trials registers in November 2022.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-RCTs comparing surgical versus non-surgical management of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures in skeletally mature adults (older than 14 years of age). For surgical treatment, we included closed manipulation with percutaneous wire fixation, open reduction with internal fixation (ORIF) with or without bone graft, or primary arthrodesis. For non-surgical treatment, we included ice, elevation and rest, or plaster cast or splint immobilisation.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We used standard Cochrane methodological procedures. We collected data for the following outcomes: function in the short term (within three months of injury) or long term (more than three months after injury), chronic pain, health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and ability to return to normal activities, as well as complications which may or may not have led to an unplanned return to theatre.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 10 RCTs and two quasi-RCTs with 1097 participants. Sample sizes in studies ranged from 29 to 424 participants. Most participants were male (86%), and the mean age in studies ranged from 28 to 52 years. In the surgical groups, participants were mostly managed with ORIF with plates, screws, or wires; one study used only minimally invasive techniques. Participants in the non-surgical groups were managed with a plaster cast, removable splint or a bandage, or with rest, elevation, and sometimes ice. Risk of performance bias was unavoidably high in all studies as it was not possible to blind participants and personnel to treatment; in addition, some studies were at high or unclear risk of other types of bias (including high risk of selection bias for quasi-RCTs, high risk of attrition bias, and unclear risk of selective reporting bias). We downgraded the certainty of all the evidence for serious risk of bias. We also downgraded the certainty of the evidence for imprecision for all outcomes (except for complications requiring return to theatre for subtalar arthrodesis) because the evidence was derived from few participants. We downgraded the evidence for subtalar arthrodesis for inconsistency because the pooled data included high levels of statistical heterogeneity. We found that surgical management may improve function at six to 24 months after injury when measured using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score (mean difference (MD) 6.58, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.04 to 12.12; 5 studies, 319 participants; low-certainty evidence). We are not aware of a published minimal clinically important difference (MCID) for the AOFAS score for this type of fracture. Previously published MCIDs for other foot conditions range from 2.0 to 7.9. No studies reported short-term function within three months of injury. Surgical management may reduce the number of people with chronic pain up to 24 months after injury (risk ratio (RR) 0.56, 95% CI 0.37 to 0.84; 4 studies, 175 participants; low-certainty evidence); this equates to 295 per 1000 fewer people with pain after surgical management (95% CI 107 to 422 per 1000). Surgical management may also lead to improved physical HRQoL (MD 6.49, 95% CI 2.49 to 10.48; 2 studies, 192 participants; low-certainty evidence). This outcome was measured using the physical component score of the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey. We used a change in effect of 5% to indicate a clinically important difference for this scoring system and thus judged that the difference in HRQoL between people treated surgically or non-surgically includes both clinically relevant and not relevant changes for those treated surgically. There may be little or no difference in the number of people who returned to work within 24 months (RR 1.26, 95% CI 0.94 to 1.68; 5 studies, 250 participants; low-certainty evidence) or who require secondary surgery for subtalar arthrodesis (RR 0.38, 95% CI 0.09 to 1.53; 3 studies, 657 participants; low-certainty evidence). For other complications requiring return to theatre in people treated surgically, we found low-certainty evidence for amputation (2.4%; 1 study, 42 participants), implant removal (3.4%; 3 studies, 321 participants), deep infection (5.3%; 1 study, 206 participants), and wound debridement (2.7%; 1 study, 73 participants). We found low-certainty evidence that 14% of participants who were treated surgically (7 studies, 847 participants) had superficial site infection.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Our confidence in the evidence is limited. Although pooled evidence indicated that surgical treatment may lead to improved functional outcome but with an increased risk of unplanned second operations, we judged the evidence to be of low certainty as it was often derived from few participants in studies that were not sufficiently robust in design. We found no evidence of a difference between treatment options in the number of people who needed late reconstruction surgery for subtalar arthritis, although the estimate included the possibility of important harms and benefits. Large, well-conducted studies that attempt to minimise detection bias and that measure functional outcomes using calcaneal-specific measurement tools would increase the confidence in these findings. Given that minimally invasive surgical procedures are already becoming more prevalent in practice, research is urgently needed to determine whether these newer surgical techniques offer better outcomes with regard to function, pain, quality of life, and postoperative complications for intra-articular displaced calcaneal fractures.

Biomechanical Comparison of Conventional Plate and the C-Nail® System for the Treatment of Displaced Intra-Articular Calcaneal Fractures: A Finite Element Analysis

The C-Nail® system is a novel intramedullary fixation method for displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures. The aim of this study was to evaluate the biomechanical performance of the C-Nail® system and compare it with conventional plate fixation for the treatment of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures using finite element analysis. The geometry of a Sanders type-IIB fracture was constructed using the computer-aided design software Ansys SpaceClaim. The C-Nail® system (Medin, Nové Mesto n. Morave, Czech Republic) and the calcaneal locking plate (Auxein Inc., 35 Doral, Florida) and screws were designed according to the manufacturer specifications. Vertical loading of 350 N and 700 N were applied to the subtalar joint surfaces to simulate partial weight bearing and full weight bearing. Construct stiffness, total deformation, and von Mises stress were assessed. The maximum stress on the C-Nail® system was lower compared with the plate (110 MPa vs. 360 MPa). At the bone level the stress was found to have higher values in the case of the plate compared to the C-Nail® system. The study suggests that the C-Nail® system can provide sufficient stability, making it a viable option for the treatment of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures.

Percutaneous balloon calcaneoplasty versus open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) for intraarticular SANDERS 2B calcaneal fracture: Comparison of primary stability using a finite element method

INTRODUCTION

Fractures of the calcaneus are common, with 65% being intra-articular, which can lead to a major impairment of the patient's quality of life. Open reduction and internal fixation with locking plates can be considered as gold-standard technique but has a high rate of post-operative complications. Minimally invasive calcaneoplasty combined with minimally invasive screw osteosynthesis is largely drawn from the management of depressed lumbar or tibial plateau fractures. The hypothesis of this study is that calcaneoplasty associated with minimally invasive percutaneous screw osteosynthesis presents biomechanical characteristics comparable with conventional osteosynthesis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eight hind feet were collected. A SANDERS 2B fracture was reproduced on each specimen, while four calcanei were reduced by a balloon calcaneoplasty method and fixed with a lateral screw, four others were manually reduced and fixed with conventional osteosynthesis. Each calcaneus was then segmented for 3D finite element modeling. A vertical load was applied to the joint surface in order to measure the displacement fields and the stress distribution according to the type of osteosynthesis.

RESULTS

Analyses of the intra-articular displacement fields showed lower overall displacements in calcaneal joints treated with calcaneoplasty and lateral screw fixation. Better stress distribution was found in the calcaneoplasty group with lower equivalent joint stresses. These results could be explained by the role of the PMMA cement as a strut, enabling better load transfer.

CONCLUSION

Balloon Calcaneoplasty combined with lateral screw osteosynthesis has biomechanical characteristics at least comparable to locking plate fixation in the treatment of SANDERS 2B calcaneal joint fractures in terms of displacement fields and stress distribution under the premise of anatomical reduction.

Modified Ni-Nail and C-Nail systems for intra-articular fractures of the calcaneus: A biomechancial study

OBJECTIVES

We have proposed a novel intramedullary nail (Ni-Nail) by incorporating a sustentaculum tali screw to improve the fixation stability of minimally invasive treatment for calcaneal fractures. This study aimed to evaluate the biomechanical characters of the Ni-Nail system and compare it with traditional C-Nail system.

METHODS

A finite element model of a Sanders type-IIIAB calcaneal fracture was reconstructed and fixed using two intramedullary nail systems, which was validated by a cadaver study. A vertical loading of 700 N was applied to the subtalar joint surfaces, and 525 N Achilles tendon tension was applied to the superior border of the Achilles tuberosity. The von Mises stresses and fracture displacements of both fixation models were evaluated.

RESULTS

The maximum von Mises stress of the screws of Ni-Nail and C-Nail were 27.92 MPa and 57.42 MPa, respectively, while that of the main nail were 67.44 MPa and 53.01 MPa. In addition, the maximum fracture displacement of the Ni-Nail was larger than that of C-Nail by 15.6% (0.37 mm vs.0.32 mm).

CONCLUSIONS

Our static simulation analysis showed that both Ni-Nail and C-Nail demonstrated similar biomechanical stability for calcaneal fixation. The Ni-Nail features a simple structure that is easier to operate and less traumatizing. Future studies may consider to further evaluate the clinical effectiveness by clinical trials and follow-ups.

Clinical Outcomes Following Suturing of Sheath of Peroneal Tendons to the Calcaneal Plate as an Innovative Technique for Reduction of Peroneal Tendon Instability Accompanying Calcaneal Fracture

BACKGROUND

The aim of the study was to evaluate the clinical and functional outcomes following suturing of sheath of peroneal tendons to the calcaneal plate as an innovative technique for reduction of peroneal tendon instability (PTI) accompanying calcaneal fracture surgically treated via extensile lateral approach (ELA).

METHODS

In a retrospective comparative study, among 245 operatively treated calcaneal fractures through ELA, we had 33 cases with PTI who underwent relocation of the peroneal tendons with ethibond suture in a figure-of-8 shape, passed through 2 parts of sheath of peroneal tendons and stitched to the calcaneal plate. Of the 33 cases, 12 were evaluated in the experimental group. Twelve surgically treated calcaneal fractures without PTI were matched as the control group. The outcome of the patients was assessed by American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle-Hindfoot Scale, Foot Function Index (FFI) percentage, Visual Analog Scale (VAS) pain, changes in Tegner activity level, maximal peroneal muscles strength testing, modified Star Excursion Balance Test (mSEBT), and triple hop for distance (THD) test. For the last 3 tests, the difference between operated and normal feet was calculated for each patient and this difference was compared between the 2 groups.

RESULTS

There was no statistically significant difference between the 2 groups for AOFAS Ankle-Hindfoot Scale (P = .09), FFI percentage (P = .12), VAS pain (P = .73), changes in Tegner activity level (P = .87), maximal peroneal muscles strength testing (P = .45), mSEBT (P > .05), and THD (P = .87) tests. We had a case with point tenderness on retromalleolar groove and 4 cases with paresthesia in the territory of the sural nerve in the experimental group in contrary to one case of sural nerve paresthesia in the control group (P = .31).

CONCLUSIONS

Relocation of peroneal tendons in PTI accompanying calcaneal fractures by fixing sheath of peroneal tendons to the calcaneal plate could be an acceptable procedure with good outcomes but may have increased chance of sural nerve injury.

LEVELS OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic, Level III: Retrospective.

Osteosynthesis or primary arthrodesis for displaced intra-articular calcaneus fractures Sanders type IV - A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Displaced intra-articular calcaneus fractures (DIACF) Sanders type IV represent a challenge in its management and questions remain about the best treatment option available. This study aimed to compare the outcomes of primary subtalar arthrodesis (PSTA) and osteosynthesis in these fractures.

METHODS

Studies concerning DIACF Sanders type IV, from 2005 to 2020 were systematically reviewed. Only studies evaluating functional outcomes with American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society ankle-hindfoot (AOFAS) score were admitted allowing for results comparison.

RESULTS

In total, 9 studies met the inclusion criteria. These reported on the results of 142 patients, from which 41 submitted to PSTA and 101 to osteosynthesis, with an average follow-up period over 2 years. We found a significant moderate negative correlation between the reported AOFAS score and the Coleman Methodology Score obtained. Late subtalar arthrodesis was 13.63% of the total osteosynthesis performed.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinical outcomes after PSTA and osteosynthesis, for the treatment of Sanders type IV fractures, do not seem very different, yet careful data interpretation is crucial. Additional powered randomized controlled trials are necessary to assess which surgical strategy is better.

Return-to-sports after minimally invasive stabilization of intra-articular calcaneal fractures

BACKGROUND

 Evaluation of different factors in patient quality of life after minimally invasive stabilization of intra-articular calcaneal fractures, including the return-to-sports rate.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

 Patients with minimally invasive stabilization of intra-articular calcaneal fractures were collected from the database of a Level I trauma center and evaluated in a retrospective and explorative way. The clinical and radiological examination have been done immediately after the operation, after 2 and 6 weeks postoperative and after a minimum follow-up of 2 years. Clinical and radiological examination was performed by applying the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society hindfoot scale score (AOFAS), 36-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), the Tegner Activity Scale, the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) and with a questionnaire about pre- and postoperative engagement in sport and recreational activities.

RESULTS

 Fourty-nine patients with an isolated uni-lateral fracture of the calcaneus who fulfilled all inclusion criteria were assessed. Fourty-two of them were male and 24 were under the age of 50 years. No statistically significant differences were noted between Sanders I/II and Sanders III/IV in terms of SF-36, AOFAS, FAOS or Tegner-scale. A less satisfying result was noticed in Sanders III/IV patients. General health, pain in FAOS, physical functioning and pain in SF-36 were strongly dependent on Tegner score values. Twenty-nine percent of our study population changed sport activities after injury, whereas 22 percent stopped all kinds of sports. Consequently, our overall return-to-sport rate was 78 percent.

CONCLUSION

 Clinical results including different scores and quality of life parameters in our study population were satisfying. About 80 percent of patients could return to sports, but there are still many patients that were not able to perform sports and physical activities on the same level as before.

Calcaneus fractures: An evaluation of the quality and reliability of online resources

AIM

To evaluate the reliability and quality of only resources available online on Calcaneal fractures.

METHODS

70 websites were identified using the search term 'Calcaneus fractures'. Google, Yahoo! and Bing were the three major search engines used for the study. Websites were classified by type and assessed for reliability and readability by means of DISCERN score, Journal of the Medical Association (JAMA) benchmark criteria and the presence or absence of HON-Code certification. In addition, a Calcaneus Fracture Specific Content Score (CFSCS) was designed in conjunction with two speciality trained foot & ankle surgeons in order to gauge content quality itself.

RESULTS

Academic websites made up the majority of URLs that were identified followed by Physician and Commercial. Overall mean DISCERN and JAMA scores were 49.8 (range 16-64) and 2.1 (range 0-4) respectively. Mean CFSCS was 18.3 (range 0-25). 30 of the total websites were HON-code certified. There was a statistically significant correlation identified between presence of HON-code certificate and DISCERN, JAMA and novel CFSCS (p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

There is an increasing tendency for patients to peruse online resources to understand their injuries and management options. This is particularly true for the younger cohort of patients in whom Calcaneus fractures occur more commonly. One must understand the varying quality of information available online in order to appropriately direct patients to areas of higher quality and reliability.

Extensile lateral versus sinus tarsi approach for calcaneal fractures: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Calcaneal fractures are the most common tarsal bone fracture, and are often accompanied by heel pain, local swelling, tenderness, and inability to walk or stand. Surgical intervention results in better reconstruction of the calcaneal anatomy and reduces future complications; however, the optimal incision approach is still controversial. The incision is exposed better with extensile lateral approach (ELA), while the sinus tarsi approach (STA) causes fewer complications. The purpose of this meta-analysis is to compare the outcomes of STA and ELA.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Published trials comparing ELA and STA in calcaneal fractures were included in our analysis. The quality of each study was assessed using the revised Jadad scale and the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. Two researchers (CP and BY) independently extracted data from all selected studies. Fixed- or random-effects models with mean differences and odds ratios were used to pool the continuous and dichotomous variables to determine the heterogeneity of the included studies.

RESULTS

Calcaneal height and calcaneal width had high heterogeneity. Results showed that the incidence of incision complications in STA was lower than that in ELA (P < .001). There was high heterogeneity in operative time (I2 = 97%), length of hospital stay (I2 = 98%), Böhler angle (I2 = 80%), Gissane angle (I2 = 98%), and American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society scores (I2 = 73%). No source of heterogeneity was found by sensitivity analysis, subgroup analysis, or regression analysis, and the random-effects model was used. STA operative time was significantly shorter than ELA (P < .001). Length of hospital stay after STA was significantly shorter than after ELA (P = .002). There was no statistical difference in the Böhler and Gissane angles between STA and ELA. Postoperative American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society scores after STA were higher than after ELA (P = .01).

CONCLUSIONS

Results show that, compared with ELA, STA is superior for treating calcaneal fractures due to anatomical reduction of the calcaneus, reduction of incision complications incidence, and shortened operative time and postoperative stay.

Can We Release All Calcaneal Attachments of the Superior Peroneal Retinaculum During Extensile Lateral Approach to the Calcaneus?

During extensile lateral approach to the calcaneus, in order to see all fractured fragments and subtalar joint, all soft tissues including insertion site of superior peroneal retinaculum (SPR) on the calcaneus should be released. The aim of this study was to evaluate the probability of peroneal tendon dislocation by releasing all soft tissues attached to the calcaneus. In 10 fresh cadavers, after standard extensile lateral approach to the calcaneus in right side, all soft tissues attached to the lateral wall of the calcaneus were excised. In the left side of each cadaver, all soft tissues inserted to the superior border of calcaneal tuberosity in addition to the lateral wall of the calcaneus were cut out. Probable anterior dislocation of peroneal tendons in the retromalleolar groove was assessed by placing a clamp into the peroneal tendon sheath from distal to proximal and advancing it to the retromalleolar groove. Also by careful dissection, any instability of peroneal tendons was visualized. Not any anterior dislocation of peroneal tendons to the lateral malleolus tip was seen in any stage of the procedure. Insertions of the SPR to the fascia of the deep posterior compartment of the leg and the Achilles tendon sheath are the main soft tissue stabilizer of the peroneal tendons in the retromalleolar groove. So resection of the insertion site of the SPR to the calcaneus might not result in the peroneal tendon instabilities.

Comparison of 5 Treatment Approaches for Displaced Intra-articular Calcaneal Fractures: A Systematic Review and Bayesian Network Meta-Analysis

The choice of the best treatment method for displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures (DIACFs) remains controversial. Using a network meta-analysis, this study aims to evaluate the radiographic characteristics, clinical effectiveness, and incision complications of nonoperative treatment, open reduction and internal fixation, minimally invasive reduction, and fixation. The studies were abstracted from Medline, Embase, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) meeting the inclusion and exclusion criteria were selected. Statistical analyses were conducted using Stata software. Seventeen RCTs involving 1297 participants with 1354 fractures were included. A total of 5 treatments-extensile lateral approach (ELA), minimally invasive longitudinal approach (MILA), sinus tarsi approach (STA), percutaneous reduction and fixation (PRF), and nonoperative treatment-were analyzed. The treatments were ranked based on Surface Under the Cumulative Ranking Curve (SUCRA) probability. In terms of recovery of Böhler's angle, the treatments were ranked as follows: MILA (75.3%), PRF (68.3%), ELA (54.7%), STA (51.6%), and nonoperative (0%). In terms of Böhler's angle after treatment, the treatments were ranked as follows: PRF (65.3%), ELA (64.0%), STA (63.5%), MILA (56.9%), and nonoperative (0.2%). In terms of American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society score, the treatments were ranked as follows: PRF (87.0%), MILA (52.9%), STA (46.6%), ELA (40.4%), and nonoperative (23.1%). In terms of excellent and good satisfaction ratings, the treatments were ranked as follows: STA (96.2%), ELA (66.8%), PRF (34.9%), and nonoperative (2%). In terms of incision complications, the treatments were ranked as follows: PRF (84.1%), MILA (80.0%), STA (35.8%), and ELA (0.1%). Given the good results of the minimally invasive approach in terms of radiographic characteristics, clinical effectiveness and incision complications, the minimally invasive approach is a good alternative for DIACFs. More randomized controlled trials focused on DIACFs are needed to further examine this conclusion.

Patient-Reported Outcome Following Operative and Conservative Treatment of Calcaneal Fractures: A Retrospective Analysis of 79 Patients at Short- to Midterm Follow-Up

Background: Fractures of the calcaneus are severe injuries of the hindfoot, mostly resulting from high-energy axial loads, which still present enormous challenges to modern trauma surgery. Possible variables influencing the outcome are the type of fracture, age, and quality of fracture reduction. These might also be factors affecting the self-reported patient outcome, but large studies are still lacking. Therefore, the aim of this study was to analyze the patient-reported outcome of calcaneal fractures following operative and conservative treatment.

Methods: All patients suffering from calcaneal fractures between 2002 and 2015 were enrolled in this retrospective analysis. The calcaneal fractures were classified according to Sanders and the AO classification system. For further analysis, two groups were formed: group I involved complex intra-articular fractures defined by the involvement of the posterior calcaneal facet, while group II consisted of extra-articular and process calcaneal fractures. Data were collected via the patient registry, radiographs, and a standardized questionnaire (Foot and Ankle Outcome Score, FAOS). For outcome analysis, non-parametric Mann–Whitney U-test was performed, and Spearman's rank correlation coefficient was calculated.

Results: In total, the functional outcome of 79 patients with calcaneal fractures was analyzed. In group 1 (n = 43), the mean FAOS score was 65.5 ± 18.9. The surgically treated patients with a Sanders type II calcaneal fracture had a mean FAOS score of 72.9 ± 17.2, type III fractures had 65.6 ± 20.8, and type IV had 61.1 ± 19 (p = 0.15). The reoperation rate was 22%, most frequently caused by wound complications (10%). The mean follow-up time was 64.5 ± 44 months. The mean FAOS score of group 2 (n = 36) was 75.2 ± 18.4, and 83% of the patients (=30) were managed conservatively. Only one out of six operatively managed patients had a reoperation due to regular implant removal. The mean follow-up time was 31 ± 25.9 months.

Conclusion: Intra-articular calcaneal fractures are severe injuries of the hindfoot leading to a fair to poor functional outcome in the majority of the patients. Complications regarding wound healing are the most common causes for revisional surgery. Extra-articular calcaneal fractures are a heterogenous entity commonly managed non-operatively. Overall, they show a better functional outcome in comparison to intra-articular calcaneal fractures.

The influence of smoking on foot and ankle surgery: a review of the literature

The effect of tobacco smoking on foot and ankle procedures is likely to be more pronounced when compared to other orthopaedic surgery. This is due to the peripheral nature of the vasculature involved. This paper reviews the current clinical evidence on the effects of smoking foot and ankle surgery. In the trauma setting, the evidence suggests that wound complications and non-unions are significantly higher in the smoking population. In the elective setting there is a significantly increased risk of non-union in ankle and hindfoot arthrodeses in smokers. In the setting of diabetes, ulceration rate in smokers is higher and there may be a higher risk of amputation.

Lateral Extensile Approach Versus Minimal Incision Approach for Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of Displaced Intra-articular Calcaneal Fractures: A Meta-analysis

Treatment of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures remains controversial. Therefore, the purpose of this large meta-analysis was to report the outcomes of the lateral extensile approach versus the minimal incision approach including complications, anatomic reduction, functional outcomes, and timing and to report results when only randomized control trials were compared. Five electronic databases were searched for articles directly comparing the 2 above approaches. Inclusion criteria included articles published from January 2007 to April 2017, adults (>18 years old) with closed, Sanders type II or III fractures, mean follow-up time of ≥12 months, and ≥1 primary outcome reported. Seventeen randomized control trials and 10 retrospective studies were included. There were 2179 participants with 2274 fractures, and mean follow-up of 22.41 months. Our results revealed no statistically significant difference in Gissane's angle, calcaneal width, calcaneal length, deep infection, or subtalar stiffness. When taking into consideration only randomized control trials, there was no statistically significant difference between groups comparing postoperative Bohler's or Gissane's angle. There was a statistically significant difference in wound complications, superficial infection, sural nerve injury, visual analog scale (VAS) and American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) scores, operative time, time to operating room, calcaneal height, and postoperative Bohler's angle (when all studies were considered), all in favor of the minimal incision approach. These results remained statistically significant when only the randomized controlled trials were compared, with the exception of Bohler's angle and VAS and AOFAS scores. The results of this meta-analysis indicate that the minimal incision approach is a good alternative to the standard lateral extensile approach.

Treatment of Displaced Intra-articular Calcaneal Fractures With an Interlocking Nail (C-Nail)

OBJECTIVES

To assess the outcome of the sinus tarsi approach and C-Nail fixation of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures (DIACFs).

DESIGN

Prospective study.

SETTING

University Trauma Department.

PATIENTS

Sixty-four patients (mean age 44.3 years, 48 men and 16 women) with 75 DIACFs were treated between October 1, 2016 and December 31, 2018.

INTERVENTION

In all cases, the posterior facet was reduced through the sinus tarsi approach and fixed with one or 2 screws. After reducing all fragments to the articular block, the final fixation was performed percutaneously with C-Nail, locked with 6 screws.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Patients were assessed for restoration of the Böhler angle, complications, and overall fracture reduction. To assess the functional outcome, we used the Mean American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society Ankle-Hindfoot Score and Maryland Foot Score after 12 months.

RESULTS

The Böhler angle improved from -0.5 degrees preoperatively to 28.6 degrees postoperatively. The articular step-off was reduced from 5.4 mm preoperatively to 0.6 mm postoperatively. The postoperative radiologic calcaneal score was 2.9, on average. Superficial wound edge necrosis was seen in 3 patients (4%) and superficial infection was observed in one (1.3%). After a 1-year follow-up, we recorded a mean American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society Ankle-Hindfoot Score of 90.2 and a mean Maryland Foot Score of 91.2.

CONCLUSIONS

After obtaining an anatomic reduction of the articular surface of the posterior facet with lag screws, the C-Nail represented a viable alternative to plate stabilization in the treatment of DIACFs, combining primary stability with low soft tissue complications.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Application of medial column classification in treatment of intra-articular calcaneal fractures

BACKGROUND

There are many types of treatments for calcaneal fractures, including conservative treatment, conventional surgical treatment, and minimally invasive surgery. The choice of specific treatment options is still controversial. Open reduction and internal fixation are currently the most commonly used surgical procedures in the clinic. A good fracture reduction effect can be achieved by using the lateral extension incision of the calcaneus; however, many studies have reported a high incidence of postoperative incision complications. Although there are many methods for the classification of intra-articular calcaneal fractures, it is generally believed that the computed tomography (CT) classification proposed by Sanders has high application value in the selection of treatment methods and evaluation of prognosis of calcaneal fractures. However, this method has no clear guiding significance for the choice of surgical incision and surgical plan.

AIM

To explore the application and clinical efficacy of medial column classification in the treatment of intra-articular calcaneal fractures.

METHODS

From July 2017 to July 2018, 91 patients, including 60 males and 31 females aged 27 to 60 years, were enrolled. All participants had closed intra-articular calcaneal fracture, and their surgical options were selected under the guidance of medial column classification. The patients’ fractures were classified according to the Sanders classification: Type II, 35 cases; Type III, 33 cases; and Type IV, 23 cases. Among them, 53 patients had medial column displacement (shortened varus) and underwent open reduction and internal fixation with L-lateral incision of the calcaneus; 38 patients had no displacement of the medial column and underwent open reduction and internal fixation with tarsal sinus incision. The calcaneus Böhler angle, Gissane angle, length, width, height, and step thickness of the articular surface were evaluated by X-ray and three-dimensional CT before and after surgery and at the last follow-up. Foot function recovery was assessed by the Maryland foot scoring criteria.

RESULTS

All patients were followed for 5 to 14 mo, with an average of 10.5 ± 2.9 mo. The fractures of all patients healed, and the healing time was 10 to 19 wk, with an average of 10.8 ± 1.5 wk. One patient developed wound infection 1 wk after surgery and was actively debrided and implanted with antibiotic calcium sulfate to control the infection. The patient's fracture healed 5 mo after surgery. One patient developed a sural nerve injury, and the symptoms disappeared 3 mo after surgery. The patients were assessed according to the Maryland foot scoring system: Excellent in 77 cases, good in 10, and fair in 4. The excellent and good rate was 95.6%.

CONCLUSION

Medial column classification can effectively guide the surgical selection for intra-articular fractures of the calcaneus.

Cost-utility analysis of extensile lateral approach versus sinus tarsi approach in Sanders type II/III calcaneus fractures

Background

Extensile lateral approach had been recognized as the gold standard technique for displaced intra-articular calcaneus fractures (DIACFs) while sinus tarsi approach had been increasingly valued by surgeons and comparative clinical outcome was shown in both techniques. Appropriate decisions could be made by the clinicians with the help of cost-utility analysis (CUA) about optimal healthcare for type II/III calcaneus fracture.

Method

A single-center, retrospective study was conducted in which basic characteristics, clinical outcomes, and health care costs of 109 patients had been obtained and analyzed. Changes in health-related quality of life (HRQoL) scores, validated by EuroQol five-dimensional-three levels (EQ-5D-3L), were used to enumerate quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). Cost-effectiveness was determined by the incremental cost per QALY.

Results

One hundred nine patients were enrolled in our study including 62 in the ELA group and 47 in the STA group. There were no significant differences between these two groups in mean total cost, laboratory, and radiographic evaluation expense, surgery, anesthesia, and antibiotic expense. The expense of internal fixation materials ($3289.0 ± 543.9) versus ($2630.6 ± 763.7) and analgesia ($145.8 ± 85.6) versus ($102.9 ± 62.7) in ELA group were significantly higher than in the STA group (P < .001, P = .008, respectively). Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scores showed significant difference at postoperative 3 and 5 days (P < .001). American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot scores and the Bohlers’ and Gissane angle showed no significant differences between the two groups before and after the operation. The cost-effectiveness ratios of ELA and STA were $8766.8 ± 2835.2/QALY and $7914.9 ± 1822.0/QALY respectively, and incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICERs) of ELA over STA was $32110.00/QALY, but both showed no significant difference.

Conclusion

Both ELA and STA techniques are effective operative procedures for the patients with calcaneus fracture. Moreover, STA seems to be more reasonable for its merits including less postoperative pain, and less expense of analgesia as well as internal fixation materials.

Level of evidence

5

Surgical or non-surgical treatment of traumatic skeletal fractures in adults: systematic review and meta-analysis of benefits and harms

BACKGROUND

A comprehensive overview of treatments of common fractures is missing, although it would be important for shared decision-making in clinical practice. The aim was to determine benefits and harms of surgical compared to non-surgical treatments for traumatic skeletal fractures.

METHODS

We searched Medline, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, and CENTRAL until November 2018, for randomized trials of surgical treatment in comparison with or in addition to non-surgical treatment of fractures in adults. For harms, only trials with patient enrollment in 2000 or later were included, while no time restriction was applied to benefits. Two reviewers independently assessed studies for inclusion, extracted data from full-text trials, and performed risk of bias assessment. Outcomes were self-reported pain, function, and quality of life, and serious adverse events (SAEs). Random effects model (Hedges' g) was used.

RESULTS

Out of 28375 records screened, we included 61 trials and performed meta-analysis on 12 fracture types in 11 sites: calcaneus, clavicula, femur, humerus, malleolus, metacarpus, metatarsus, radius, rib, scaphoideum, and thoraco-lumbar spine. Seven other fracture types only had one trial available. For distal radius fractures, the standardized mean difference (SMD) was 0.31 (95% CI 0.10 to 0.53, n = 378 participants) for function, favoring surgery, however, with greater risk of SAEs (RR = 3.10 (1.42 to 6.77), n = 436). For displaced intra-articular calcaneus fractures, SMD was 0.64 (0.13 to 1.16) for function (n = 244) and 0.19 (0.01 to 0.36) for quality of life (n = 506) favoring surgery. Surgery was associated with a smaller risk of SAE than non-surgical treatment for displaced midshaft clavicular fractures (RR = 0.62 (0.42 to 0.92), n = 1394). None of the other comparisons showed statistical significance differences and insufficient data existed for most of the common fracture types.

CONCLUSIONS

Of 12 fracture types with more than one trial, only two demonstrated a difference in favor of surgery (distal radius fractures and displaced intra-articular calcaneus fractures), one of which demonstrated a greater risk of harms in the surgical group (distal radius fractures). Our results highlight the current paucity of high-quality randomized trials for common fracture types and a considerable heterogeneity and risk of bias in several of the available trials.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

PROSPERO CRD42015020805.

An evaluation of the results of locked plate osteosynthesis applied without the use of bone graft in Sanders type III and IV intra-articular calcaneus fractures

PURPOSE

The clinical and radiological results of locked plate osteosynthesis with an extensive lateral approach without bone graft in Sanders type III and IV intra-articular calcaneus fractures and the factors affecting these results were evaluated retrospectively.

METHODS

A total of 61 patients with Sanders type 3 and 4 calcaneus fractures who underwent a lateral approach with locked plate osteosynthesis were included in the study. The mean follow-up was 44.8 months.

RESULTS

The mean pre- and post-operative Gissane and Bohler's angles were 113.5° ± 13.9° and 106.7° ± 13.6° (p = 0.006) and 2.8° ± 14.1° and 19.6° ± 13.1° (p < 0.001), respectively. The mean post-operative AOFAS scores, SF-36, and Maryland were 80.5 ± 13.6 in type IIIAB, 89.4 ± 6.3 in IIIAC, and 82.4 ± 12.5 in IV; 58.6 ± 14.5 in type IIIAB, 60.3 ± 11.7 in IIIAC, and 58.0 ± 15.6 in IV; and 63.8 ± 7.2 in type IIIAB, 64.3 ± 7.1 in IIIAC, and 62.8 ± 11.7 in IV (p = 0.173, p = 0.932, p = 0.824, respectively). Wound problems were observed in 15 (28.6%) patients. Deep infection was not observed in any patient.

CONCLUSION

The clinical results were similar in type III and IV intra-articular calcaneus fractures applied with locked plate osteosynthesis in an extensive lateral approach and without the use of bone graft. Intra-articular calcaneus fracture fixation with a lateral locked plate is an effective treatment method.

Clinical and Radiological Outcomes of Minimally Invasive Reduction and Percutaneous K-wire Fixation for Intra-articular Calcaneal Fractures

There has been much controversy over the optimal operative treatment of intra-articular calcaneal fractures. Open reduction and internal fixation is associated with a high incidence of postoperative soft tissue complications. This study sought to evaluate the outcomes of indirect reduction and percutaneous K-wire fixation for displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures. This was a prospective study of 40 consecutive patients with 44 Sanders type II or III intra-articular calcaneal fractures who had undergone closed or mini-open reduction and percutaneous K-wire fixation from 2013 to 2016. The Maryland Foot Score and visual analog scale score for pain were used to assess functional outcomes and postoperative patient satisfaction. Twenty-two patients were men and 18 patients were women, with a mean age of 34.5 years. According to the Sanders classification, 26 fractures were type II and 18 were type III. Mean follow-up was 31.9 months. The clinical outcome was satisfactory for 36 fractures (81.8%) and unsatisfactory for 8 fractures (18.2%). Mean time of radiological union was 8.7 weeks. Mean full weight-bearing time was 13 weeks. Mean visual analog scale score was 1.4 when radiographic fracture healing was detected. Repeated follow-up radiographs showed no loss of reduction or collapse of the posterior facet. Closed or mini-open reduction and percutaneous K-wire fixation of Sanders type II or III calcaneal fractures has excellent functional outcomes with minimal soft tissue complications. [Orthopedics. 2020; 43(2): 97-101.].

Fine Wire Circular Fixation for Displaced Intra-Articular Calcaneal Fractures: A Systematic Review

Intra-articular calcaneal fractures represent an ongoing challenge for the orthopedic community, with the benefits of the previous "gold standard" treatment of open reduction and internal fixation having been called into question in several large randomized controlled trials. Fine wire circular fixation may represent a useful alternative treatment for these injuries, combining minimally invasive application with rigid fixation, which allows the possibility of early weight bearing We performed a systematic review of published studies that used circular fixation for calcaneal fractures and recorded functional outcomes at follow-up. In a total of 11 studies with 255 calcaneal fractures for which there was follow-up, our inclusion criteria were met: 8.2% of fractures were bilateral, 11.9% of fractures were open fractures, and 12.6% of patients had multiple orthopedic injuries. Functional outcomes were assessed with the use of a variety of tools across the different studies, but outcomes compared favorably with those seen with open reduction and internal fixation. Although pin site infections were common (22.6%), serious complications, including deep infection (0.8%), wound infection (1.6%), and complex regional pain syndrome (0.8%), were exceedingly rare. The results suggest that this is a viable alternative treatment for calcaneal fractures, but higher-quality randomized controlled trials are required before the technique can enter mainstream use.

The epidemiology and trends in the surgical management of calcaneal fractures in England between 2000 and 2017

Aims

This paper documents the epidemiology of adults (aged more than 18 years) with a calcaneal fracture who have been admitted to hospital in England since 2000. Secondary aims were to document whether publication of the United Kingdom Heel Fracture Trial (UK HeFT) influenced the proportion of patients admitted to hospital with a calcaneal fracture who underwent surgical treatment, and to determine whether there has been any recent change in the surgical technique used for these injuries.

Patients and Methods

In England, the Hospital Episode Statistics (HES) data are recorded annually. Between 2000/01 and 2016/17, the number of adults admitted to an English NHS hospital with a calcaneal fracture and whether they underwent surgical treatment was determined.

Results

During this 17-year period, 62 858 patients were admitted to hospital with a calcaneal fracture. The male-to-female ratio was 2.66:1. The mean annual incidence was 10.5/100 000 for men and 3.8/100 000 for women. The results of the UK HeFT were published in July 2014. The percentage of patients admitted with a calcaneal fracture undergoing internal fixation was 7.31% (3792/51 859) before and 7.38% (534/7229) after its publication. This difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.94). Since 2015, there has been a significant increase in the percentage of calcaneal fractures treated by closed reduction and internal fixation, as opposed to open reduction and internal fixation, from 7.7% (292/3792) to 13.29% (71/534) (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

This study documents the epidemiology and trends in surgical treatment of calcaneal fractures in England. We established that surgeons did not change their practice in terms of offering surgery to these patients in response to the results of the UK HeFT. There has been a significant (p < 0.001) increase in the number of calcaneal fractures being treated surgically using less invasive procedures.

Balloon-assisted reduction, pin fixation and tricalcium phosphate augmentation for calcaneal fracture: A retrospective analysis of 42 patients

INTRODUCTION

The treatment of intra-articular calcaneal fractures is still complex and controversial. Although open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) is favored by many authors, several percutaneous techniques have been introduced to reduce complications and to obtain satisfactory clinical and radiological results. Among these percutaneous treatments, balloon reduction and bone graft augmentation is gaining an increasing popularity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively examined a series of 42 patients treated operatively with a minimally invasive reduction technique using an inflatable bone tamp filled with tricalcium phosphate (calcaneoplasty) for Sander's type II, III and IV calcaneal fractures between 2010 and 2015. Conventional X-rays and CT scan were performed pre-operatively, at 3 and 12 months post-operatively and at the last-follow-up. The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score and the Maryland Foot Score (MFS) were used for clinical evaluation. Bohler's angle and the Score Analysis of Verona (SAVE) were calculated to assess bone reduction.

RESULTS

All 42 patients were available for clinical and radiographic follow-up at an average of 665 months (range 38-92). At the last follow-up the mean AOFAS score was 82.1 (good) and the mean MFS was 80.8 (good). The mean Bohler's angle improved from 1.29° pre-operatively to 27.8° at the last follow-up. The SAVE highlighted good and excellent results in 30 (72%) patients. There were only 3 (7.1%) cases of superficial skin infection with only 6 (14.2%) patients complaining of residual pain. No cases of adverse reaction or deep infection were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Calcaneoplasty appears to be a valid option of treatment for calcaneal fractures and a reliable alternative to ORIF. This technique allows stable fracture reduction and early weight-bearing combined with good clinical and radiological results and few complications.

Short-Term Outcomes of Open Reduction and Internal Fixation for Sanders Type III Calcaneal Fractures With and Without Bone Grafts

Calcaneal fractures, often caused by a fall from a height, are the most common injuries encountered by orthopedic surgeons. Currently, open anatomic reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) is considered a valuable treatment of displaced intraarticular fractures of the calcaneus; however, the need for bone grafting in the treatment is still controversial. Therefore, in the present study, we investigated the outcomes of 2 methods (with and without bone grafting) used for the surgical treatment of Sanders type III calcaneal fractures. From January 2013 to September 2015, 57 cases (55 patients) with displaced Sanders type III calcaneal fractures (53 unilateral and 2 bilateral) were enrolled. The patients were divided into 2 groups: group I was treated by ORIF with bone grafting (n = 28) and group II was treated by ORIF without bone grafting (n = 29). The radiologic evaluation included Böhler's angle, Gissane's angle, and the height and width of the calcaneum. In addition, the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society questionnaires and visual analog scale were completed by the patients. During the follow-up period, no differences were found in the outcome measures (Böhler's angle, p = .447; Gissane's angle, p = .599; calcaneal height, p = .065; calcaneal width p = .077; and American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society questionnaires, p = .282) with or without bone grafting. The only difference between the 2 groups was the occurrence of postoperative pain (p = .024 and p = ≤ .05), which was greater in the patients who had undergone bone grafting. We have provided evidence that bone grafting with internal fixation in the treatment of intraarticular calcaneal fractures failed to improve the restoration of Böhler's angle or Gissane's angle. No statistically significant difference was found in the short-term outcomes between the 2 methods used for the surgical treatment of Sanders type III calcaneal fractures.

Management of Intra-Articular Calcaneal Fractures: Clinical Results of Reduction Technique Using a Bone Spreader

The purpose of the present study was to examine the clinical results of surgery for intra-articular calcaneal fractures using a calcaneal locking plate and a bone spreader as a reduction tool. Ten patients with intra-articular calcaneal fractures were treated. An extended lateral approach was used. The reduction of the intra-articular fragments of the posterior facet was temporarily held using a bone spreader and Kirschner wires. Internal fixation was achieved with a locking calcaneal plate. Böhler's angle and Preiss' angle were assessed on the day of injury and the day of the final follow-up examination. The step off and gap of the posterior facet were assessed on the day of injury and the first week after surgery. The functional outcome was evaluated using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society ankle hindfoot scale score. The mean Böhler's angle ranged from 2.1° ± 11.0° to 30.4° ± 5.0° (p < .0001), the mean Preiss' angle ranged from 23.5° ± 4.5° to 15.5° ± 2.9° (p < .0001), the mean step off ranged from 4.0 ± 1.9 mm to 0.1 ± 0.2 mm (p = .0002), and the mean gap ranged from 2.6 ± 1.0 mm to 1.2 ± 0.6 mm (p = .0035). The mean American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society Ankle-Hindfoot scale score was 89.2 (range 85 to 100) at a mean of 14.3 months after surgery. Our results suggest that a locking calcaneal plate can be used to restore and reduce an intra-articular calcaneal fracture and achieve good clinical results.

Quantitative and Qualitative Assessment of the Relative Arterial Contributions to the Calcaneus

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to quantitatively and qualitatively assess relative arterial contributions to the calcaneus.

METHOD

Fourteen cadaveric ankle pairs were used. In each specimen, the posterior tibial artery, peroneal artery, and anterior tibial artery were cannulated and used for contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT). Quantitative MRI analysis of the pre- and postcontrast MRI scans facilitated assessment of relative arterial contributions. In addition, postcontrast MRIs were used to measure all perfused arterial entry points and scaled to a 3-dimensional calcaneus model. Contrast-enhanced CT imaging was assessed to further delineate the extraosseous arterial course. Two pairs underwent infusion of diluted BaSO₄ through a constant-pressure pump using extended infusion duration.

RESULTS

Quantitative MRI findings indicated the peroneal artery provided 52.6% of the calcaneal arterial supply, 31.6% from the posterior tibial artery, and 15.8% from the anterior tibial artery. The cortical entry points were found in fairly consistent patterns along calcaneal cortical surfaces. All specimens demonstrated intraosseous anastomoses between lateral and medial entry points at common locations.

CONCLUSIONS

The peroneal artery was found to provide the largest calcaneal arterial contribution, followed by the posterior tibial artery and anterior tibial artery. A rich anastomotic arterial network was found supplying the calcaneus.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

This study provides quantitative and qualitative findings of the relative arterial contribution of the calcaneus. This knowledge can help expand our understanding of calcaneal vascularization, demonstrate the vascular impact of calcaneal fracture and surgery, and facilitate future research on the arterial anatomy of the calcaneal soft tissue envelope.

Comparison of calcaneus joint internal and external fractures in open surgery and minimal invasive methods in patients

Surgical management of calcaneal fractures has various complications. In recent years, minimally invasive surgeries have been utilized for a wide range of surgical procedures on different body parts significantly declining complications. This paper compares surgical outcomes of calcaneal fracture management between the open reduction and internal fixation technique (ORIF) and the MIS technique. In this randomized clinical trial forty patients with calcaneus fractures were randomly assigned to two equal groups; ORIF group and MIS group. Patients were followed for 1 year post-operatively. Gissane and Bohler’s angles, AOFAS questionnaire, pain intensity, ability to conduct previous activities and various complications like wound healing complications and irritation with shoe wear were assessed in the final post-operative visit. Eventually data obtained from the two groups were compared. All patients obtained fracture union. Bohler’s and Gissane angles significantly increased and decreased, respectively, after the operation in both groups (p˂0.05), however, no significant difference was found between the two research groups. AOFAS scores and pain intensity was similar in both groups, however, surgical duration in the MIS group was significantly less than the ORIF group (P=0.021). Only one patient from the ORIF group was not able to resume his previous occupation. 12 patients from the ORIF group and five patients from the MIS group experienced irritation from shoe wear (p=0.025). In the ORIF group, 4 patients suffered from wound healing complications, however, none of the patients of the MIS group had wound complications (p=0.035). In conclusion, based on the results, it can be concluded that the MIS technique demonstrated better functional and radiographic outcomes as well as a more favorable complication profile, thus, it is recommended for the management of calcaneus fractures.

Sinus tarsi approach (STA) versus extensile lateral approach (ELA) for treatment of closed displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures (DIACF): A meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Our aim was to compare the effect of sinus tarsi approach (STA) vs extensile lateral approach (ELA) for treatment of closed displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures (DIACF) is still being debated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A thorough research was carried out in the MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane library databases from inception to December 2016. Only prospective or retrospective comparative studies were selected in this meta-analysis. Two independent reviewers conducted literature search, data extraction and quality assessment. The primary outcomes were anatomical restoration and prevalence of complications. Secondary outcomes included operation time and functional recovery.

RESULTS

Four randomized controlled trials involving 326 patients and three cohort studies involving 206 patients were included. STA technique for DIACFs led to a decline in both operation time and incidence of complications. There were no significant differences between the groups in American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society scores, nor changes in Böhler angle.

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis suggests that STA technique may reduce the operation time and incidence of complications. In conclusion, STA technique is reasonably an optimal choice for DIACF.

Treatment of intraarticular calcaneal fractures by reconstruction plate. Results and complications of 86 fractures

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the results of surgical treatment of intraarticular calcaneal fractures, and also to analyze the variables that influence the final clinical and radiological outcomes as well as the complications.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 86 intraarticular calcaneal fractures in 78 patients, who underwent surgery with an extended lateral approach and reconstruction plate. The mean age was 48 years (16-74 years) and the mean follow-up was 4.6 years (9-99 months); 54 patients (69.2%) suffered falls from less than 3m in height or banal injuries and 24 patients (30.8%) falls from more than 3m in height or high energy-accidents. According to the Sanders classification we operated 12 (15%) typeII, 54 (62.8%) typeIII and 20 (23.2%) typeIV fractures.

RESULTS

The postoperative mean AOFAS score was 73.9 points, with good or excellent results in 57% of the patients. Twelve cases (14%) suffered surgical wound complications and 11 (12.8%) required subtalar arthrodesis. Significantly better results were obtained in the patients younger than 30 years old, patients that fell from less than 3m in height and patients with Sanders fractures types II and III compared to typeIV, which were associated with higher rate of subtalar arthrodesis.

CONCLUSIONS

We consider that open reduction and internal fixation of intraarticular fractures of the calcaneus with reconstruction plate is a valid treatment alternative. Given the complications described and the secondary subtalar arthrodesis rate, we recommend a meticulous technique carried out by experienced surgeons.

Sanders type IIIAB calcaneal fracture without broken lateral wall: A case report and review of literature

RATIONALE

The calcaneal fracture without broken lateral wall is rare and the open anatomic reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) is necessary when the subtalar joint articular surface is broken and collapsed.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 45-year-old male was admitted to our department with complaints of heel pain and swelling after falling down from 1-m-high stone. He was unable to bear weight on his right foot.

DIAGNOSES

Imaging studies confirmed that it was a sanders type IIIAB calcaneal fracture without broken lateral wall and the middle part of the posterior calcaneal articular facet collapsed.

INTERVENTIONS

ORIF of intraarticular calcaneal fracture with the locking calcaneal plate was performed.

OUTCOMES

The patient recovered completely after 16 weeks and was able to participate in his usual work.

LESSONS

Based on this case and literature we reviewed, computed tomography scan (CT scan) should be used to diagnose and evaluate the severity of calcaneal fractures. Currently, ORIF was the preferred surgical treatment option when dealing with displaced intraarticular calcaneal fractures.

Treatment of displaced intra-articular calcaneus fractures: a current concepts review

Displaced Intra-Articular Calcaneus fractures (DIACFs) represent a source of tremendous disability to the patient, economic burden to the society and a treatment challenge to the average orthopaedic surgeon. To date, no single approach is universally applicable to all calcaneus fractures. Despite a plethora of published meta-analyses and recent randomized controlled trials, the literature is still unclear and offers conflicting recommendations. The aim of this current concepts review is to assess the latest available data and offer pragmatic and practical recommendations to address some of the issues surrounding DIACFs.

Sinus tarsi approach versus extensile lateral approach for displaced intra-articular calcaneal fracture: a meta-analysis of current evidence base

Background

The extensile lateral approach (ELA) has been widely performed for displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures (DIACFs), and wound complications remain a significant problem. As a minimal incision technique, the sinus tarsi approach (STA) was designed to overcome this disadvantage. There were already many reports about this approach but the conclusions were not completely consistent. Based on the current evidence, we performed this meta-analysis to compare the STA with ELA in the management of DIACF and expected to draw a certain and meaningful conclusion.

Methods

All potentially relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and cohort studies (CSs) were searched in the databases of PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) and ClinicalTrial.gov. The desirable outcomes including wound complications, excellent and good rate, secondary surgery rate and Böhler’s angle were extracted. RCT studies were assessed using the Risk of Bias Tool recommended by the Cochrane Collaboration, and cohort studies were evaluated using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. The data of RCTs and cohorts were pooled respectively using the fixed-effect model or random-effect model. Mean differences with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated for continuous data, and relative risks (RRs) with 95% CIs were calculated for dichotomous data. Statistical heterogeneity was assessed with the Q test and I². Sensitivity analysis was developed to assess the reliability of pooled results.

Results

Seven studies including two RCTs and five CSs were eligible for the meta-analysis. No matter RCTs or CSs, the pooled data all showed that STA group had a lower incidence of wound complications than that in the ELA group and no significant difference was found in excellent and good rate and the recovery of Böhler’s angle between the two groups. The CSs also showed that the STA group had a lower incidence of secondary surgeries than that in the ELA group.

Conclusions

Through a STA, we not only can reduce the problems in wound healing but also achieve nearly the same adequate restoration of DIACF along with the similar functional outcomes compared with through an ELA.

The outcome of super-cutaneous locked plate fixation with percutaneous reduction of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures

INTRODUCTION

Supercutaneous (external) fixation with locking plate is utilized for fixation of long bone fractures. One retrospective study for open reduction and supercutaneous fixation of the calcaneus is reported. We prospectively evaluated the use of this method of fixation combined with percutaneous reduction.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between January 2014 and June 2015, 32 displaced calcaneus fractures in 30 patients were stabilized with percutaneous reduction and super-cutaneous fixation. They were 24 males and six females. The mean age was 37.9±5.7 years (21-55). All cases were closed. The time to surgery, complications, radiographic alignment, and time to radiographic union were recorded. Clinical results at the final follow-up were assessed by evaluating Bohler's angles for the radiographic alignment, and the system of the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) for the functional outcome.

RESULTS

According to the Sanders' classification, two cases were type II, 17 cases were type III and 13 cases were type IV. The preoperative average Bohler's angle was 10.57°±4.8. The postoperative X-ray films demonstrated that the average Bohler's angle improved to 29.07°±5.9 (p<0.001). At the time of radiologic healing (about 3 months), the plates and screws were removed under general anesthesia. The average follow-up was 13.2 months (11-18). Four cases (type IV) showed mal-union and heel pain. According to (AOFAS) rating, the fine score was 87.1±17.1 points.

CONCLUSION

Super-cutaneous fixation with percutaneous reduction of calcaneal fracture is an effective method in type II and III and can be effective with type IV but with less favorable results.

Minimally invasive percutaneous osteosynthesis versus ORIF for Sanders type II and III calcaneal fractures: a prospective, randomized intervention trial

Background

This randomized controlled trial compared the clinical outcomes and complications of a novel minimally invasive percutaneous osteosynthesis (MIPO) with those of conventional treatment via an extended L-shaped lateral approach for calcaneal fractures.

Methods

Sixty-four patients with displaced intraarticular calcaneal fractures were enrolled. The patients were randomly allocated to receive either MIPO (29 patients) or open reduction and internal fixation via an extended L-shaped lateral approach (35 patients). The same calcaneal plate (AO Synthes, Oberdorf, Switzerland) was used in both groups. The primary clinical outcomes included operative time, VAS postoperatively, and wound healing complications. Secondary clinical outcomes included time to operation, length of incision, postoperative drainage, length of hospital stay, medical expense, AOFAS score, and SF-36 score. Preoperative and postoperative calcaneal height, width, and length, Bohler’s angle, and Gissane’s angle were compared.

Results

The operative time in the MIPO group was 52.5 ± 11.1 min, which was significantly shorter than 82.8 ± 16.2 min in the conventional treatment group (P < 0.001). One week postoperatively, the VAS value was 3.2 ± 1.4 in the MIPO group, which was lower than that in the conventional treatment group, 3.9 ± 1.3 (P = 0.038). In the conventional treatment group, 13 of 35 fractures (37.1%) had wound healing problems, whereas this issue occurred in only 2 of 29 fractures (6.7%) in the MIPO group (P = 0.004). In the MIPO group, deep and superficial infections occurred in none of the cases and 1 of 29 (3.4%) patients, respectively. Length of incision in the MIPO group was shorter than that in the conventional treatment group (4.2 ± 0.6 vs. 10.9 ± 1.5 cm; P < 0.001). Hospital stay was 9.7 ± 2.8 days in the MIPO group and 11.7 ± 2.6 days in the conventional treatment group (P = 0.004). At the last follow-up, the SF-36 scores and AOFAS scores in the two groups were comparable (P > 0.05). The postoperative radiographic data, the Bohler’s angle, Gissane’s angle, and calcaneal height, width, and length in the two groups were comparable (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Compared with conventional ORIF, the advantages of MIPO are a considerably shortened operating time and hospital stay, decreased postoperative pain, and reduced risk of wound healing complications.

Cannulated screw fixation and plate fixation for displaced intra-articular calcaneus fracture: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Displaced intra-articular calcaneus fractures (DIACFs) are the most common type of calcaneus fracture. The differences in therapeutic effectiveness between cannulated screw fixation (CSF) and plate fixation are still unclear. Thus, in this meta-analysis, we evaluated the therapeutic effectiveness of these two fixation methods.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We searched for all publications on DIACFs fixated with cannulated screws or plates in the following electronic databases: Pubmed, Cochrane, Embase and CNKI. Only randomized controlled studies were included. The Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions (version 5.1.0) was applied for analysis. The primary outcomes were American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society score (AOFAS), improvement of Bohler's angle, improvement of Gissane's angle and the width of the calcaneus. Outcomes were reported as the standard mean difference (SMD) or relative risk (RR) with the 95% confidence interval (CI). A random effects model was used to assess the pooled data.

RESULTS

Five randomized controlled studies met our inclusion criteria, and a total of 707 patients were involved. There was no statistically significant difference between the cannulated screw fixation group and the plate fixation group in terms of excellent and good AOFAS scores (RR = 1.01, 95%CI 0.91 to 1.13, P = 0.79), improvement of Bohler's angle (SMD = 0.12, 95%CI -0.03 to 0.28, P = 0.12), improvement of Gissane's angle (SMD = 0.09, 95%CI -0.28 to 0.26, P = 0.30), or the width of the calcaneus (SMD = -0.07, 95%CI -0.24 to 0.10, p = 0.45). Compared with plate fixation, CSF showed a significant reduction in the duration of surgery (SMD = -1.74, 95%CI, -3.35 to -0.13, P = 0.03) and rate of complications (RR = 0.25, 95%CI, 0.15 to 0.44, P＜0.00001).

CONCLUSIONS

Cannulated screw fixation and plate fixation have similar fixation effectiveness and functional outcomes in the treatment of displaced intra-articular calcaneus fractures. Due to the shorter duration of surgery and low rate of complications, cannulated screw fixation is superior to plate fixation. However, further studies are needed to evaluate cannulated screw fixation for various Sanders types of calcaneus fractures.

Percutaneous Reduction and Fixation with Kirschner Wires versus Open Reduction Internal Fixation for the Management of Calcaneal Fractures: A Meta-Analysis

The aim of our meta-analysis was to compare outcomes for two surgical treatments of calcaneal fractures, percutaneous reduction and fixation with Kirschner wires (PRFK) and open reduction internal fixation (ORIF), with the intent of evaluating the quality of evidence to inform practice. Search of MEDLINE, Cochrane and CNKI databases to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing PRKF and ORIF on the following outcomes: post-operative function, complications and quality of the reduction. Odd ratios (OR) and weighted mean differences were pooled using either a fixed-effects or random-effects model, depending on the heterogeneity of the trials included in the analysis. Eighteen RCTs provided the data from 1407 patients. PRFK was associated with a lower risk of surgical wound complications, and ORIF with better post-operative function, angle of Gissane, calcaneal height, and calcaneal width. There were no statistically significant differences between the techniques with regards to post-operative Böhler’s angle. PRFK does not provide a substantive advantage over ORIF for the treatment of calcaneal fractures in adults. PRFK may, however, yield comparable functional outcomes to ORIF for closed Sanders type II calcaneal fractures but with less complication related to surgical wound healing.