operative treatment of the displaced intraarticular fractures of the calcaneus

Most calcaneal fractures occur in male industrial workers, having significant economic repercussions. Although current operative treatment has improved the outcome of the treatment in many patients, there is still no consensus on the classification, treatment, operative technique, or postoperative management. Computed tomographic scanning has improved our understanding of these fractures substantially, and has allowed the consistent analysis of the results of the treatment. The focus of current treatment is on the operative methods, internal fixation by leg-screw and plate through the lateral Kocher approach. Between April 1998 and July 2002, we treated operatively 6 displaced intraarticular fractures of the calcaneus. A lateral Kocher incision, leg-screw, and plate fixation were used. Neither infection, nor nonunion, or malunion occurred. All the patients presently have painless foot, use normal footwear, and are capable of normal activities.