Closed reduction and percutaneous Kirschner wire fixation for the treatment of dislocated calcaneal fractures: surgical technique, complications, clinical and radiological results after 2-10 years.

INTRODUCTION: To reduce complications, a minimally invasive technique for the treatment of dislocated intraarticular fractures of the calcaneus was used. Therefore previously described closed reduction and internal fixation techniques were combined and modified.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty-seven out of 92 calcaneal fractures could be retrospectively evaluated with an average follow-up time of 5.7 years (minimum 2-10 years follow-up). For radiographic evaluation, plain radiographs and CT scans were obtained. The Zwipp score was used for clinical evaluation. Sanders type II, III and IV fractures were diagnosed.

RESULTS: Length of surgery averaged 61 min (range 20-175 min). The incidence of subtalar arthritis was correlated to the severity of fracture. Böhler's angle was restored in 70.1% (47 of 67) of the cases. On the last follow-up evaluation the average Zwipp score was 130 points (range 48-186 points). The majority (77.7%) of patients were content with their treatment result. The rate of significant complications was 6.5%.

DISCUSSION: Compared to open techniques the presented minimally invasive technique showed comparable results with a low rate of serious complications and is a viable alternative for the treatment of intraarticular, dislocated calcaneal fractures.