Treatment of Displaced Intra-articular Calcaneal Fractures Using a F-plate

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To evaluate the clinical efficacy of F-plate in displaced intra-articular fractures of calcaneus. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Total 43 cases treated with F-plate and followed up at least six months postoperatively were reviewed. Radiographically, Böhler angle was measured and all cases were subdivided by Sanders classification. Each case was reviewed for the presence of local infection, traumatic arthritis, nonunion, and any breakage of plate or screw. Maryland foot score was used for clinical assessment and factors influencing on clinical results were determined. RESULTS: The mean Böhler angle was improved from 0.5° (range -24.7~35.5°) preoperatively to 25.8° (range 14.2~38.6°) postoperatively and the angle at last follow-up was 23.5° (range 10.2~37.5°), showing about 2.3 degree decline compared to postoperative Böhler angle. There were two cases of F-plate breakage and two cases of screw breakage but the metal breakage did not affect any change in Böhler angle. Other complications were; five cases of traumatic arthritis, one case of varus malunion and one case of deep wound infection. According to Maryland foot score, there were 10 excellent, 22 good, 10 fair and 1 poor result. Furthermore, Age, pre-operative Böhler angle and the patient's expectation on financial compensation had significant influences upon the clinical result. CONCLUSION: F-plate fixation seems to yield firm fixation and satisfactory clinical results in the treatment of displaced intra-articular fractures of calcaneus.