MANAGEMENT OF INTRA-ARTICULAR CALCANEAL FRACTURES WIILIZAROV RING FIXATIO

Abstract

Objective: Calcaneal fractures are caused by a high velocity force to the heel, mostly in road trafc accidents or fall from height. Debate continues regarding the best management of calcaneal fractures. We aim at evaluating the radiological and functional outcomes of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures treated with Ilizarov ring xation. Methods: intra-articular calcaneal Eighteen consecutive patients with fractures [Sanders type II (10), Sanders type III(6), and Sanders type IV (2)] were treated with the Ilizarov ring xator from Sep 2017 to June 2020. Patients were evaluated in terms of associated injuries and x-rays of anteroposterior, lateral and axial views of the calcaneus. CT scan was done to assess the amount of comminution and articular depression. Patients were followed up clinically and radiologically at least for 1 year. Functional outcome was assessed using the American Orthopaedics Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scale. Radiological assessment was done by Bohler's angle and Gissane's angle along with measurement of calcaneal height and width. Results: At average follow-up of 18.5 months, average AOFAS score was 80.5 (range 71 to 90), with 6.25% having excellent, 75% having good, 12.5% having fair and 6.25%having poor results. All patients had stable ankle joint with all having dorsiexion and plantar exion more than 30°. All patients are able to wear their previous size shoes. The mean Bohler's angle, mean Gissane's angle, calcaneal height and width were 21.5°, 126.3°, 4.36 cm and 3.80cm respectively at nal follow-up. Four patients had supercial pin tract infection. One patient had collapse of posterior facet after removal of xator with peroneal tendinitis. All fractures united and none needed secondary bone grafting. Patients returned to work on an average of 5.5 months. Conclusion: Ilizarov external ring xation gives good functional outcomes, manifested by restoring near normal anatomic reconstruction of morphology and alignment of the calcaneus. The added advantages of these procedures are the considerably shortened operating time and hospital stay, no need of highly equipped operation theatres and the reduced risk of complications related to surgical exposure.