Treatment of Displaced Intra-articular Calcaneal Fractures by Intramedullary Nail. Preliminary Report.

BACKGROUND Open reduction and plate stabilisation is a recognised method of treatment of intra-articular calcaneal fractures. The surgical approach to the calcaneal bone used in these procedures is associated with a high risk of complications. The aim of this paper is to present the author's experience with a new surgical method and analyse early outcomes of the treatment of calcaneal fractures by Calcanail intramedullary nailing. MATERIAL AND METHODS The study encompassed 17 patients (5 women and 12 men) with 18 calcaneal fractures (5 in the right foot and 13 in the left foot). The mean age of the patients was 47 years (range: 22-68 years). The mean time between the injury and surgery was 6 days (range: 3-14 days). The mean duration of follow-up was 12 months (range: 6-18 months). The fractures were classified according to the system presented by Guy Utheza. RESULTS Bone union was achieved in all patients within 12 weeks of surgery. No infectious complications were observed. The mean AOFAS score was 82/100. Mean Bohler's angle was -3 degrees pre-operatively and +29 degrees post-operatively. CONCLUSIONS 1. The use of Calcanail intramedullary nailing in the treatment of displaced intra-articular fractures is a minimally invasive procedure associated with a low risk of complications. 2. The innovative posterior approach allows for the intrafocal reduction of an articular surface fracture through the prepared intramedullary canal.