Functional outcome of patients after open reduction internal fixation in displaced intra articular calcaneal fractures

Abstract

Background There are lot of controversies with management of calcaneal fractures. In this prospective study, we studied the functional outcome of surgically treated displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures. Aim To evaluate the functional outcome of patients following open reduction internal fixation in displaced intra-articular calcaneus fractures under Dept. of Orthopaedics – Govt. Medical College Hospital, Thiruvananthapuram during the period of 2016-2017. Functional outcome is measured in terms of pain and function. Materials and Methods 72 patients admitted with displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures and managed with Open Reduction Internal Fixation were observed for 6 months. All fractures were fixed with calcaneal plates, by an extensile lateral approach. Regular follow ups are made at 1 month and 6 months. Functional result was compared by using Maryland foot score and also Bohler’s angle. Results: Incidence is much more common in males (90.3%). 20-40 year age group is most commonly affected. The spinal injuries were the most common associated injury (30.6%). Of 72 fractures, 26 were Sander’s type IV (36.1%), 25 type II (34.7%) and 21 Type III (29.2%) fractures. 30 patients had Bohler’s angle 21-40, 42 had less than 20. The proportion of patients having Bohler’s angle