Percutaneous fixation of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fracture.

Operative treatment modalities for calcaneal fracture are still controversial. The outcome of intra-articular calcaneal fracture is mainly influenced by the soft tissue and the subtalar joint. Percutaneous method of internal fixation has been attempted to avoid the problems. Patients with displaced intra-articular calcaneal fracture types IIA, IIB and IIC were treated by initial distraction of subtalar joint, restoration the of subtalar joint, reduction of lateral expansion and finally fixation with screws percutaneously. Twenty-two patients with 26 calcaneal fractures were included. After a mean follow-up of 2 1/2 years and with American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society hind foot score 82 points out of 100. Percutaneous fixation of calcaneum fracture is good alternative method in types IIA, IIB and IIC and selective type III fractures.