Calcaneal fracture fixation

Patients with heel bone fractures can be treated non operatively in many cases, but some have significant deformity  due to the injury that if corrected would provide an optimal outcome. The heel bone can be flattened, widened and the joint surface can be damaged severely

Surgery to realign the heel bone focuses on restoring the normal shape of the bone then allowing it to heal. In some cases this can be done via a percutaneous technique (stab incisions), a small incision over the outside of the foot or a large L-shape incision.

Mr. Talia is always happy to see patients at short notice with foot and ankle injuries and if surgery is required this can typically be organised in a safe manner within recommended timeframes for the best outcome.

Figure 1: calcaneal fracture fixation (percutaneous, left) and plating (right)

Post-operative plan:

  • Surgery is typically an overnight stay

  • A nerve block of the leg is administered to help with pain

  • 0-2 weeks: elevation at home, plaster cast or CAMboot

  • 2-6 weeks: non weight bearing in a CAMboot

  • 6-10 weeks onwards: full weight bearing in moon boot

  • >12 weeks: progress to strengthening

Download post-operative care guide

 

Risks of surgery

  • Swelling, stiffness

  • Infection and wound breakdown

  • Blood clots

  • Scar sensitivity, numbness in the foot

  • Ongoing pain

  • Progression to arthritis of the subtalar joint

  • Removal of implants in 10-15% of patients