A Mid-Term Result of the Treatment of Intra-Articular Calcaneal Fractures with the Use of Intramedullary Nailing.

Background

Intra-articular calcaneal fracture (CF) treatment is associated with a high risk of complications, but closed reduction and internal fixation (CRIF) is a minimally invasive alternative for treatment.

Methods

Forty-eight patients treated with CRIF and CALCAnail® due to intra-articular CF between 2016 and 2021 were analyzed to check union time, complication rate, and functionality after the intervention. Functional and pain outcomes were assessed, including the Maryland Foot Score (MFS), American Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) scale questionnaires, and the numerical pain scale (NRS) at mid-term follow-ups 2-5 years after the intervention.

Results

Intervention increased median Böhler's angle from 21.5° to 32° (p < 0.01). The median bone union time was 12 weeks. The risk of malunion was higher in patients with Sanders type 4 (RR = 2.28; 95% CI 1.11-4.72) and those operated on later than the 2nd day after injury (RR = 2.1; 95% CI 1.08-4.09). Patients with at least one of the comorbidities (nicotinism, diabetes, obesity) had a higher risk of intensive pain (NRS > 3) 2-5 years after surgery (RR = 1.69; 95% CI 1.06-2.68), and 84% were satisfied with their treatment. Other complications included complex regional pain syndrome in two patients (4%), malunion in three (6%), and surgical site infection in two (4%). The MFS had a median score of 85 points, while that of the AOFAS was 82 points.

Conclusions

CRIF, with the use of the CALCAnail® implant, allows doctors to restore anatomical relationships around the subtalar joint, resulting in good clinical and functional results.