Total calcanectomy in calcaneal osteomyelitis: An alternative to major amputation.

BACKGROUND

Hindfoot ulcers associated with chronic calcaneus osteomyelitis are very difficult to manage and many patients need a limb amputation for resolution. Total calcanectomy can be a salvage procedure for these patients. The purpose of this study is to present our results of total calcanectomy.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of six patients undergoing total calcanectomy at our institution between 2008 and 2019. Patient data and ambulatory status were analyzed.

RESULTS

In 4 of the 6 patients, infection control and wound closure was achieved with total calcanectomy with follow-up ranging from 1 to 12 years. The 4 patients maintain walking ability. Two major complications: an early death caused by a respiratory infection and a below the knee amputation due to recurrence of the foot infection.

CONCLUSION

Total calcanectomy is an useful procedure for limb salvage in foot ulcers with chronic calcaneus osteomyelitis.