Locked nailing for the treatment of displaced articular fractures of the calcaneus: Description of a new procedure with calcanail®

Abstract

Although open reduction and internal Wxation is considered the best method for treating displaced articular fractures of the calcaneus, lateral approach is at high risk for wound healing complications. For this reason, the authors developed a posterior approach and a new implant to perform both intrafocal reduction and internal Wxation. The aim of this technical note is to describe this method of treatment for displaced articular fractures of the calcaneus, which offered the following advantages: (a) the creation of a working channel that provides also a significant bone autograft, (b) the intrafocal reduction of the displaced articular surface, (c) the insertion of a locking nail that maintains the reduced articular surface at the right height, (d) the possibility to switch from an ORIF to a reconstruction arthrodesis with the same approach and instrumentation in case of severely damaged posterior facet. © Springer-Verlag 2011.