Operative treatment of intra-articular calcaneal fractures with the calcaneal plate

Objective To investigate the treatment of intra-articular calcaneal fractures with calcaneal plate.Methods 29 patients(32 feet) of Sanders Ⅱ～Ⅳ type of intra-articular calcaneal fractures were treated with open reduction and plate fixation.Non-weight-bearing functional exercise were allowed in 3d after the operation and gradual weight-bearing exercises were trained in 6 to 8 weeks.Results 29 patients were followed up for 10 to 32 months.According to Maryland foot score system: excellent in 20 feet,good in 8,and poor in 4 feet.Complications occurred in 1 case with the heel widening,subtalar arthritis in 2 cases(1 case underwent joint fusion),skin flap of incision necrosis in 2 cases,and screw backup stimulating the skin in 1 case.Conclusions The treatment of intra-articular calcaneal fracture with calcaneal plate is an effective method.Strictly controlled indications for surgery and reasonable postoperative care can reduce the incidence of complications.