Percutaneous Cannulated Screws for Treatment of Displaced Intra-Articular Calcaneal Fractures: A Prospective Study

Abstract

Background: Treatment of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures (DIACFs) remains controversial and challenging to orthopaedic surgeons. Several procedures were used to treat DIACFs. There is no single approach that is universally applicable to all DIACFs. Objective:-The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate functional and radiographic outcomes of closed reduction and percutaneous cannulated screws fixation in treatment of Sanders type II & III DIACFs. Patients and methods: A prospective study was conducted on 14 patients (17 feet) with Sanders' type II or III DIACFs, treated by closed reduction and fixation using cannulated screws, at orthopedics department of Sohag university hospital, between June 2020 and April 2022. Functional assessment was done by AOFAS score and VAS for pain. Radiographic assessment was done by measurement of three calcaneal angles (Gissane, Böhler's and posterior facet inclination angles) and three calcaneal distances (height, length and width of calcaneus).Results: The mean age of patients at time of operation was 34.8 years. Vast majority of patients were males (78.6%). Involvement of right side was 57.1%. Mean operative time was 57 minutes. Mean AOFAS score was 85.9 points. Mean time of radiographic union was 8.9 weeks. Conclusion: The technique avoided wound complications associated with ORIF with advantage of shorter hospital stay. Patients are satisfied and had lower rate of subtalar arthritis.