B. Chaminade et al., Simple screw fixation for calcaneal fractures: 60 cases with preoperative computed tomography analysis, REV CHIR OR, 86(7), 2000, pp. 724-736
Citations number
42
Categorie Soggetti
Ortopedics, Rehabilitation & Sport Medicine
Journal title
REVUE DE CHIRURGIE ORTHOPEDIQUE ET REPARATRICE DE L APPAREIL MOTEUR
Purpose of the study
In accordance with the conclusions established at the SOFCOT symposium in 1
988, we propose surgical treatment of displaced fractures of the calcaneus
with screw fixation after reduction. We developed an original classificatio
n system of 3D computed tomography images which allows a precise descriptio
n of the fractures and guides joint and calcaneal body reconstructions. The
purpose of this work was to provide a precise analysis of operated fractur
es in order to identify prognostic factors and validate use of exclusive sc
rew fixation for calcaneal fractures.
Materials and methods
This series included 60 operated articular fractures of the calcaneus. The
Utheza classification was: 12 vertical, 7 horizontal with 1 fracture line,
3 horizontal with 2 fracture lines, 23 mixed with 1 fracture line and 15 mi
xed with 2 fracture lines. 3D computed tomography evidenced the fundamental
fracture lines and their anterior extension. Fixation was achieved with on
e screw inserted in a transverse position under the posterior facet and one
oblique screw from the greater tuberosity to the sustentaculum tall. The m
edial and lateral Bohler angles were measured on plain x-rays. The analysis
included search for a double line on the posterior talocalcaneal facet, se
condary body displacement, the position of the oblique screw and the degree
of posttraumatic subtalar wear. The clinical criteria established in the 1
988 SOFCOT guidelines were recorded. Analysis of variance, Pearson and Spea
rman coefficients, and RIDITS analysis (the most powerful method available
for evidencing a relationship between two qualitative variables one of whic
h is ordinal) were used to search for prognostic elements and correlations.
Results
No severe complications were encountered with the wide lateral access. A ne
gative medial Bohler angle was significantly correlated with an additionnal
posterior facet line. A mean 80 p. 100 reduction in the towering of the me
dial part of the posterior facet and an 87 p. 100 reduction in lateral pivo
ting were achieved irrespective of the type of fracture. Minimal secondary
body displacements were significantly related to anchorage of the oblique s
crew outside the sustentaculum tall. Functional outcome was satisfactory (v
ery good + good + average) in 75 p. 100 of the cases and physical outcome i
n 50 p. 100 (very good + good) irrespective of the type of fracture. Outcom
e was significantly correlated with reduction in the Bohler angle, double l
ines on the posterior facet, secondary displacement and osteoarthritis.
Discussion
The 3D analysis of posterior facet fractures using our classification was u
seful in guiding reconstruction with correction of the medial lowering and
the lateral pivoting. A negative medial Bohler angle was a factor of poor p
rognosis: more posterior facet lines, joint wear and deterioration of the f
unctional and physical outcome. Good outcome required good reduction of the
Bohler angle and good anchorage of the oblique screw in the sustentaculum
tall. Good subtalar mobility was associated with pain relief. Uniform anato
mic and pathologic classifications and precise analysis criteria are needed
for pertinent comparison between series and proper definition for indicati
ons for first-line reconstruction-arthrodesis.
Conclusion
Measurement of the medial Bohler angle improves the sensitivity of revision
criteria for articular fractures of the calcaneus. Screw fixation has prov
en its reliability.