Open Reduction and Internal Fixation with AO Calcaneal Plate for Displaced Intra-articular Calcaneal Fracture

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To evaluate the surgical outcomes of open reduction and internal fixation of AO calcaneal plate in displaced intra-articular fractures of the calcaneus. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From January 2004 to July 2007, 25 patients with 27 displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures were treated by open reduction and internal fixation using the AO calcaneal plate. Preoperative, postoperative evaluations and a follow-up after 1 year were done radiologically by the Bohler angle, Gissane angle, heel height and width among all patients. Their functional status was assessed by means of the Maryland foot score. RESULTS: The mean Bohler angle, Gissane angle, heel height and width were restored comparing with preoperative data. However, in Sanders type IV, some losses of reduction occurred at 1 year follow-up (p<0.05). The mean Maryland foot scores were 85 points in type II, 82 points in type III and 63 points in type IV. Sanders types significantly affected the clinical results (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: The AO calcaneal plate fixation using extensile L-shpaed lateral approach shows satisfactory radiologic and clinical results in the treatment of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures.