Soft tissue complications following calcaneal fractures.

Soft tissue complications following calcaneal fractures can be frustrating to the patient and present reconstructive challenges for the surgeon. Preoperative patient assessment may define a group of patients who are best treated nonoperatively in an effort to avoid disastrous soft tissue complications. Late sequelae will continue to be seen and through the use of differential injections, physical exam, and appropriate intervention, the practitioner can usually decrease symptoms and improve a patient's function. Further studies in the treatment of open calcaneal fractures are necessary to better define treatment algorithms. A working knowledge of these complications and their management is necessary for the surgeon treating calcaneal fractures.