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Abstract
Recently, open reduction and internal fixation has been the treatment of choice for displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures for many orthopaedic surgeons. However controversy still surrounds the optimal treatment with regard to whether displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures should be treated operatively or conservatively. Conservative treatments include use of splint, rest, leg elevation, icing, use of analgesics and early mobilization. Operative treatment is open reduction and internal fixation, performed through an extensile lateral approach with interfragmentary screws and application of a neutralization plate. We reviewed the question of whether operative treatment by open reduction and internal fixation provides a benefit compared with conservative treatment for displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures.
References
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Figure 1.
Initial calcaneal lateral (A) and axial (B) view show joint depression type of intra-articular calcaneal fracture. (C, D) After 7 months of conservative treatment, subtalar arthrosis (malunion) has been occurred.
Figure 2.
(A) L-shaped line was drawn line was drawn over the lateral aspect of calcaneus, running between the lateral malleolus and the posterior and inferior border of the heel. (B) Intraoperative photograph shows a full thickness anterior flap elevated with no touch technique. (C) Postoperative lateral radiograph is taken after open reduction and fixation of a displaced intra-articular calcaneal fracture.
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