ARTHROSCOPIC FIXATION OF DISPLACED CALCANEAL FRACTURES: PERCUTANEOUS ARTHROSCOPIC CALCANEAL OSTEOSYNTHESIS

IntroductionWe present a consecutive series of 19 patients with 22 intra-articular calcaneal fractures treated by percutaneous arthroscopic fixation (percutaneous arthroscopic calcaneal osteosynthesis “PACO”). Traditional open reduction and fixation regularly has significant wound complications. PACO has the advantage of direct visualization of the joint surface reduction with the benefit of minimal soft tissue trauma and wound complications.MethodsBetween July 2010 & April 2012, 39 isolated closed intra-articular calcaneal fractures were admitted to St Mary's Hospital. All Sanders type 2 and type 3 fractures were included. Undisplaced fractures (13) were treated non-operatively and comminuted type 4 fractures (4) were treated with primary arthroscopic fusion. Surgery was performed on the next list with no delay for swelling. All patients had pre and post op CT scans. Patients were discharged in a temporary cast with routine follow up at 2, 6 and 12 weeks.TechniqueArthroscopy was performed in the lateral ...