Aims. Surgical treatment of young femoral neck fractures often requires an open approach to achieve an anatomical reduction. The application of a calcar plate has recently been described to aid in femoral neck fracture reduction and to augment fixation. However, application of a plate may potentially compromise the regional vascularity of the femoral head and neck. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of calcar femoral neck plating on the vascularity of the femoral head and neck. Methods. A Hueter approach and capsulotomy were performed bilaterally in six cadaveric hips. In the experimental group, a one-third tubular plate was secured to the inferomedial femoral neck at 6:00 on the clockface. The contralateral hip served as a control with surgical approach and capsulotomy without fixation. Pre- and post-contrast MRI was then performed to quantify signal intensity in the femoral head and neck. Qualitative assessment of the terminal arterial branches to the femoral head, specifically the inferior retinacular artery (IRA), was also performed. Results. Quantitative MRI revealed a mean reduction of 1.8% (SD 3.1%) of arterial contribution in the femoral head and a mean reduction of 7.1% (SD 10.6%) in the femoral neck in the plating group compared to non-plated controls. Based on femoral head quadrant analysis, the largest mean decrease in arterial contribution was in the inferomedial quadrant (4.0%, SD 6.6%). No significant differences were found between control and experimental hips for any femoral neck or femoral head regions. The inferior retinaculum of Weitbrecht (containing the IRA) was directly visualized in six of 12 specimens. Qualitative MRI assessment confirmed IRA integrity in all specimens. Conclusion. Calcar femoral neck plating at the 6:00 position on the clockface resulted in minimal decrease in femoral head and neck vascularity, and therefore it may be considered as an adjunct to laterally-based fixation for reduction and fixation of femoral neck fractures, especially in younger patients. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2021;2(8):611–617

Aims. The aim of this study was to explore why some calcar screws are malpositioned when a proximal humeral fracture is treated by internal fixation with a locking plate, and to identify risk factors for this phenomenon. Some suggestions can be made of ways to avoid this error. Methods. We retrospectively identified all proximal humeral fractures treated in our institution between October 2016 and October 2018 using the hospital information system. The patients’ medical and radiological data were collected, and we divided potential risk factors into two groups: preoperative factors and intraoperative factors. Preoperative factors included age, sex, height, weight, body mass index, proximal humeral bone mineral density, type of fracture, the condition of the medial hinge, and medial metaphyseal head extension. Intraoperative factors included the grade of surgeon, neck-shaft angle after reduction, humeral head height, restoration of medial support, and quality of reduction. Adjusted binary logistic regression and multivariate logistic regression models were used to identify pre- and intraoperative risk factors. Area under the curve (AUC) analysis was used to evaluate the discriminative ability of the multivariable model. Results. Data from 203 patients (63 males and 140 females) with a mean age of 62 years (22 to 89) were analyzed. In 49 fractures, the calcar screw was considered to be malpositioned; in 154 it was in the optimal position. The rate of malpositioning was therefore 24% (49/203). No preoperative risk factor was found for malpositioning of the calcar screws. Only the neck-shaft angle was found to be related to the risk of screw malpositioning in a multivariate model (with an AUC of 0.72). For the fractures in which the neck-shaft angle was reduced to between 130° and 150°, 91% (133/46) of calcar screws were in the optimal position. Conclusion. The neck-shaft angle is the key factor for the appropriate positioning of calcar screws when treating a proximal humeral fracture with a locking plate. We recommend reducing the angle to between 130° and 150°. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(12):1629–1635

Abstract. Objective. To estimate the effect of calcar collar separation on the likelihood of calcar collar contact during in vitro periprosthetic fracture. Methods. Three groups of six composite femurs were implanted with a collared cementless femoral stem. Neck resection was increased between groups (group 1 = normal, group 2 = 3mm additional, group 3 = 6mm additional), to simulate failure to obtain calcar collar contact. Prior to each trial, the distances between anterior (ACC) and posterior (PCC) collar and the calcar were measured. Periprosthetic fractures of the femur were simulated using a previously published technique. High speed video recording identified when collar to calcar contact (CCC) occurred. The ACC and PCC were compared between trials where the CCC was and was not achieved. Regression estimated the odds of failing to achieve CCC for a given ACC or PCC. Results. CCC was achieved prior to fracture in all cases in group one, 50% in group two and 0% in group three. The median (range) ACC for those trials where CCC was achieved was 0.40 (0.00, 3.37) mm versus 6.15 (3.06 to 6.88) mm, where CCC was not achieved (p <0.01). The median (range) PCC for those trials where CCC was achieved was 0.85 (0.00 to 3.71) mm versus 5.97 (2.23 to 7.46) mm, where CCC was not achieved (p <0.01). Binomial logistic regression estimated risk of failure to obtain CCC increased 3.8 fold (95% confidence interval 1.6 to 30.2, p <0.05) for each millimetre of PCC. Conclusions. Increased separation between collar and calcar reduced the likelihood of calcar collar contact during a simulated periprosthetic fracture of the femur. Surgeons should aim to achieve a calcar-collar distance of less than 1mm following implantation to ensure calcar collar contact during periprosthetic femoral fracture and to reduce the risk of fracture. Declaration of Interest. (a) fully declare any financial or other potential conflict of interest

Aims. Fixation of osteoporotic proximal humerus fractures remains challenging even with state-of-the-art locking plates. Despite the demonstrated biomechanical benefit of screw tip augmentation with bone cement, the clinical findings have remained unclear, potentially as the optimal augmentation combinations are unknown. The aim of this study was to systematically evaluate the biomechanical benefits of the augmentation options in a humeral locking plate using finite element analysis (FEA). Methods. A total of 64 cement augmentation configurations were analyzed using six screws of a locking plate to virtually fix unstable three-part fractures in 24 low-density proximal humerus models under three physiological loading cases (4,608 simulations). The biomechanical benefit of augmentation was evaluated through an established FEA methodology using the average peri-screw bone strain as a validated predictor of cyclic cut-out failure. Results. The biomechanical benefit was already significant with a single cemented screw and increased with the number of augmented screws, but the configuration was highly influential. The best two-screw (mean 23%, SD 3% reduction) and the worst four-screw (mean 22%, SD 5%) combinations performed similarly. The largest benefits were achieved with augmenting screws purchasing into the calcar and having posteriorly located tips. Local bone mineral density was not directly related to the improvement. Conclusion. The number and configuration of cemented screws strongly determined how augmentation can alleviate the predicted risk of cut-out failure. Screws purchasing in the calcar and posterior humeral head regions may be prioritized. Although requiring clinical corroborations, these findings may explain the controversial results of previous clinical studies not controlling the choices of screw augmentation

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) allows patients to return to an active lifestyle. Unfortunately one of the more common complications of cementless THA is a fracture of the greater trochanter (GT) or the calcar. These may compromise the outcomes of THA, but there are no large studies looking into this hypothesis. Between September 1998 and August 2005 the Hamilton Arthroplasty group performed 2282 THA operations. Demographic and outcome data on these patients was collected and tabulated in a prospective database. Radiographs were available on a picture archiving system for 1075 of the patients, 85% of which were primary THAs. GT and calcar fractures were identified. Statistical comparisons on the normal distributed outcome data were made using the Student’s T-test comparing repaired and missed fractures. A total of 60 GT fractures were found in the review of 1075 radiographs, giving an incidence of 5.6%. This included 19 isolated GT fractures and 10 GT fractures with associated calcar fractures that were found in primary hip arthroplasties, 48% of the total. Revision hip surgeries had 14 isolated GT fractures and 17 GT fractures with associated calcar fracture. We found that 23 (40%) of all GT fractures were missed intra-operatively and did not receive any fixation. All calcar fractures were noted and repaired, even if the associated GT fracture was not. 106 isolated calcar fractures were noted, 10% of all arthroplasties, only one of which did not receive fixation. Of this, 85 (80%) were from primary total hip arthroplasty and 21 (20%) from revision hip arthroplasty. Evaluation of the outcome data showed no significant difference between repaired and missed GT fractures. Reported outcomes compared favourably with the average for all THA in that time period. Adoption of cementless total hip arthroplasty in North America undoubtedly increases the rate of GT and calcar fractures. Most calcar fractures were noted and fixed but only 50% of GT fractures were discovered intraoperatively, an area of potential improvement. Greater trochanter and recognized calcar fractures may not have long-term detrimental effects

Introduction. Segmental defects of the femur present a major problem during revision hip arthroplasty. In particular, calcar segmental defects may compromise initial and long-tem femoral stem stability. Objective. The objective of the present study is to assess mid-term clinical and radiographic follow-up results at least two years after femoral revision comprising reconstruction for calcar segmental defect using metal wire mesh and impacted morcellised allograft. Methods. We performed 26 femoral revisions with calcar reconstruction in 24 patients between 2002 and 2010. The average age was 69.7 years, and the average follow-up period was 5 years and 1 month. All surgeries were performed using a cemented polished collarless tapered stem. The segmental calcar defect was reconstructed with metal wire mesh with doubled stainless wires. Large sized morcellised cancellous allograft was tightly impacted into the cavity between the phantom stem and the metal wire mesh. Nineteen hips were reconstructed with impaction bone grafting of the femur, and 7 hips with cement-in-cement technique except for the reconstructed calcar region.ã�� For clinical assessment, Merle d'Aubigné and Postel hip scores were recorded. For radiological assessment, antero-posterior hip radiographs were analyzed pre-operatively, and post-operatively at one month, 6 months and every 6 months thereafter. Clear lines around the femoral component using Gruen zone classification, stem subsidence in cement mantle, and change of stem axis were recorded. Kaplan-Meier survival analyses were performed with any re-operation of the femoral component or aseptic loosening as end points. In one case, the histological appearance of a biopsy specimen of the most proximal part of the reconstructed calcar, which was obtained at a later surgery for infection at 4 years after the revision, is described. Results. For clinical assessment, the mean Merle d'Aubigné and Postel hip scores improved from 10.4 points before the operation to 14.7 points at the final follow-up. For radiological assessment, no clear lines at the cement-bone interface and no stem axis changes were detected. Twenty-five of 26 hips showed less than 2 mm of stem subsidence at the final follow-up and one hip showed 2.2 mm stem subsidence. Both hips of one female patient underwent a one stage stem exchange because of an infection that occurred 48 months after revision. No cases showed aseptic loosening up to and including the last follow-up. The Kaplan-Meier survival analysis revealed that the survival rate at five years after revision was 88.0% with any type of re-operation on the femoral side as the endpoint and 100% with aseptic stem loosening as the endpoint, respectively. A biopsy specimen taken from the most proximal part of the reconstructed calcar region at 4 years after surgery in the infected case showed almost complete regeneration of viable bone with normal marrow spaces with partially formed granulation tissue. Conclusion. Reconstruction using metal wire mesh and tightly impacted morcellised allograft is a favorable method for the correction a calcar segmental defect. The procedure is simple and reliable, achieving initial and mid-term stem stability even for femurs with a complete calcar defect

The calcar femorale or ‘true neck’ of the femur has a role in transmitting load from the cantilevered neck to the femoral shaft (Zhang 2009). It can appear as a distinct condensation in clinical CT images because its structure is very similar to compact bone (Aspden 1998). Harty (1957) proposed that the calcar acts as a ‘spike’ in certain fall situations, contributing to splitting of the trochanter. We hypothesised that among elderly fallers, the size of the calcar would influence whether fractures occurred in the trochanteric (TR) or femoral neck (FN) site. We also asked whether patients who sustained a fracture had more or less calcar bone than frailty-matched controls that fell but didn't fracture. The FEMCO study is designed to investigate male (M) and female (F) patients with acute hip fracture with multi-detector CT, before they undergo surgery. It includes an age, sex and frailty-matched control group (who have sustained at least one injurious fall without hip fracture). The fractured hip is reconstructed in 3D for classification of fracture type (FN or TR). For the present pilot study, there were 14 cases (5TR, 9FN mean 80+/−8.5yrs. 7M, 7F) and 11 controls (83+/−7.0yrs. 3M, 8F). Axial CT slices where a calcar was visible were opened in Stradwin 4.1 software (Treece 2011). The calcar femorale was semi-automatically selected with the flood fill tool. Each axial image that contained a visible calcar was included in the analysis, so that for each femur a single calcar volume was generated. Results were examined using ANOVA. Combining male and female results, there was a non-significant trend towards a higher calcar volume in patients sustaining trochanteric rather than femoral neck fractures (0.73cm3 +/− 0.26 vs 0.61cm3 +/−0.14, p=0.27) but no difference between cases and controls. Males had a significantly higher calcar volume than females (mean 0.82cm3 +/− 0.24 vs 0.59cm3 +/− 0.13, p=0.005). Further studies are now planned in larger samples of each sex, to examine the role of the calcar in fracture mechanics. Three-dimensional visualisations provide a novel insight into the damage patterns and resultant fragment locations

Background. Post-operative periprosthetic femoral fractures (PFF) are a devastating complication associated with high mortality and are costly. Few risk factors are modifiable apart from implant choice. The design features governing risk of PFF are unknown. We estimated the 90-day risk of revision for PFF associated with design features of cementless femoral stems and to investigate the effect of a collar on early PFF risk using a biomechanical in-vitro model. Patients, materials and methods. 337 647 primary THAs from the National Joint Registry (UK) were included in a multivariable survival and regression analysis to identify the adjusted hazard of PFF revision following primary THA using cementless stems. The effect of a collar in cementless THA on early PFF was evaluated in an in-vitro model using paired fresh frozen cadaveric femora. Results. Prevalence of PFF revision was 0.34% (1180/337647) and 44.0% occurred (520/1180) within 90 days of surgery. Implant risk factors included: collarless stem, non grit-blasted finish and triple tapered design. In the in-vitro PFF model a medial calcar collar consistently improved construct stability and fracture resistance. Discussion. During rotational injury the collar can load the calcar in compression increasing the force required for a fracture. This increases the force required to cause a PFF around a collared implant versus collarless implants. The calcar possibly acts as a check-rein which prevents excessive peri-prosthetic trabecular deformation in rotational injuries and may improve the resistance to loosening after high energy injuries which do not cause cortical fracture. Conclusion. Analysis of stem design features in registry data is a useful method to identify implant characteristics which affect the risk of early PFF around cementless femoral stems. Calcar collar reduced early PFF risk and this was confirmed by biomechanical testing. This approach may be useful in the analysis of other uncommon arthroplasty failure modes

Background: The Calcaneus is the largest of the tarsal bones. 2% of all adult and 60 % of all tarsal fractures involve the Calcaneus. A true consensus regarding the management of these fractures still eludes orthopaedic surgeons. While operative treatment for displaced fractures has gained more acceptance in the last decade, surgical morbidity still remains high. Aim: A retrospective review of the early complications and radiological outcomes following open reduction and internal fixation of displaced calcaneal fractures in our unit over the last 15 months. Methods: A consecutive series of 33 patients who underwent surgical fixation of the Calcaneus was selected. Patient records, X rays and scans were reviewed. Mode and nature of injury, life style factors, surgical complications and Bohler’s angles were analysed. Results: 37 fractures in 33 patients underwent operative fixation. 81 % were male. Mean age at surgery was 37yrs (range19–59). 35 % were operated within 1 week of the injury and 13% after 2 weeks of injury. 43% were Sanders’ type III, 18% type II and 13% tuberosity avulsion fractures. 63% of patients had a reversed or zero Bohler’s angle. Mean post-op Bohler’s angle was 32 degrees. Overall complication rate was 32%, with a combined deep infection rate of 8%. All patients with infection were male, and 70% were smokers. 86% were above 40yrs of age (mean 47yrs). The deep infection rate for intra-articular fractures was 3% and for tuberosity avulsion fractures 40%. Majority of patients with wound complications had been operated within 7 days of injury. 4 patients had persisting pain requiring removal of metal work. Discussion: Our study highlights that there are significant risks associated with operative management of calcaneal fractures. Male patients over the age of 40yrs who are smokers seem to be at most risk of wound complications. Time to surgery or delay in surgery up to 2 weeks did not seem to have any adverse consequences. Complications increase with fracture complexity, and avulsion fractures have a high risk of wound breakdown. Near anatomical restoration of the articular surface is possible in most cases

Resorption of the calcar below the collar of a titanium femoral prosthesis was observed. Biopsies of these lesions showed concentrations of polyethylene. We assessed the size of the resorption, correlating it with the size of the femoral prosthesis and the time since implantation. The age and the weight of the patient was also linked to the size of the prosthesis. We conducted a finite element analysis (FEA) of the femoral component-femur complex in both the loaded and unloaded situation. FEA demonstrated changing pressure under the collar. This can be translated into micro-bending, with the degree of movement dependent on the size of the prosthesis, the material of the prosthesis and the weight of the patient. We postulate the existence of a ‘polyethylene pump’ owing to the bending motion of the collared prosthesis, and that calcar resorption is due to the resultant polyethylene granulomatous lesions

Resorption of the calcar below the collar of a titanium femoral prosthesis was observed. Biopsies of these lesions showed concentrations of polyethylene. We assessed the size of the resorption and correlated this with the size of the femoral prosthesis and the time since implantation. The age and the weight of the patient were also linked to the size of the prosthesis. We conducted a finite element analysis (FEA) of the femoral component-femur complex in both the loaded and unloaded situation. The FEA study demonstrated changing pressure under the collar that can be translated into microbending motions, with the degree of the movement dependent on the size of the prosthesis, the material of the prosthesis and the weight of the patient. We hypothesise that the existence of a ‘polyethylene pump’ due to the bending movements of the collared prosthesis concentrates polyethylene particles under the collar. We therefore postulated that the calcar resorption is due to the polyethylene granulomatous lesions, resulting from the micromotion of the collar of the prosthesis

Between January 1990 and October 2000, 108 total hip arthroplasties using a cemented polished titanium stem and a cemented ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWP) cup were performed at our hospital. Because during routine follow-up visits we noted instances of resorption of the calcar, we decided to assess whether this was a problem. We were able to assess 85 of the original 108 hips. Calcar resorption was observed in 43 hips. The extent of calcar resorption varied from 1 mm to over 15 mm. In one patient a biopsy showed typical polyethylene granuloma. Because there is a risk of long-term failure, we concluded that it is inadvisable to use a cemented polished titanium stem when UHMWP is one of the bearing surfaces

We have previously reported on early lytic lesions occurring when collared titanium prostheses are used. Previous finite element analysis studies (FEAs) showed that lytic lesions of the calcar were due to concentration of polyethylene wear particles under the collar by a ‘pumping action’. Further follow-up of these calcar lytic lesions showed that their rate of increase in size progressively slowed down. Further FEAs were performed to determine why this was so. An FEA mesh construct was developed, incorporating the new parameters of no contact between the collar and the calcar bone. A mechanical model to determine displacement parameters was also developed. These FEA studies demonstrated that the pumping action of the collar became less efficient as the size of the lytic lesions increased. This led to less concentration of polyethylene particles under the collar and fewer granulomatous reactions. The change in the proximal prosthesis-cement-bone construct may lead to cement mantle deterioration and earlier failure. We still recommend caution when a collared prosthesis is used, and the material and geometry of the prosthesis remain important

Introduction and Aims: Rapidly progressive lytic lesions of the calcar develop under the collar of cemented titanium femoral stems inserted in our unit. Progression of the defects slowed after reaching a critical size. Biopsies showed granulomatous lesions with polyethylene particles and multi-nucleate giant cells. The aim of the study was to determine the natural history of these lytic lesions. Method: We developed a finite element analysis model. We determined the parameters of the FEA model, to reflect the geometry and physical characteristics of the prosthesis-bone construct and also factored in both loading and non-loading parameters. We also determined the characteristics of titanium and cobalt-chrome prostheses. Results: We determined from the FEA model that there is some vertical displacement of the collar relative to the calcar-cement construct. This displacement is larger in the titanium than the cobalt-chrome model. The magnitude of the displacement is larger than the average polyethylene particle size. On loading and non-loading this displacement allows the development of a pump action, thus concentrating polyethylene particles under the collar of the prosthesis and leading to the granulomatous lytic lesions. The FEA studies demonstrated that the pumping action of the collar became less efficient, but did persist, as the lytic lesions increased in size. Conclusion: We have explained the development of calcar lytic lesions under the collar of femoral stems. A pump action is present in loading and non-loading phases, sucking in polyethylene particles and allowing granulomatous lesions to form. We recommend caution when using collared femoral prostheses, more so titanium than cobalt-chrome, because of the development of calcar lytic lesions

A consensus regarding management of calcaneal fractures eludes orthopaedic surgeons. While operative treatment has gained more acceptance, surgical morbidity remains high. We undertook a retrospective review of early complications and radiological outcomes following internal fixation of calcaneal fractures in our unit over 15 months. A consecutive series of 33 patients who underwent fixation of the Calcaneus was selected. Patient records, X-rays and scans were reviewed. 37 fractures in 33 patients underwent fixation. 81 % were male. Mean age at surgery was 37yrs (19 -59yrs). 35 % were operated within 1 wk of injury and 13% after 2 wks of injury. 43% were Sanders' type III, 18% type II and 13% tuberosity avulsion fractures. 63% had a reversed/zero Bohler's angle. Mean post-op Bohler's angle was 32 degrees. Overall complication rate was 32%, with a combined deep infection rate of 8%. All patients with infection were male, and 70% were smokers. 86% were above 40yrs of age (mean 47yrs). The deep infection rate for intra-articular fractures was 3% and for tuberosity avulsion fractures 40%. Majority of patients with wound complications had been operated within 7 days of injury. Males over 40yrs and smokers seem to be at most risk of wound complications. Time to surgery/delay in surgery up to 2 wks did not seem to have any adverse consequences. Complications increase with fracture complexity and avulsion fractures have highest risk of wound breakdown. Near anatomical restoration of the articular surface is possible in most

Purpose: The success of humeral head replacement following fracture is reliant on several factors, one of which is version. The correct humeral version (HV) is highly variable, and is patient and side dependent. In the setting of fracture, there is no intra-operative landmark to guide the surgeon as to the anatomic version. This study has examined computed tomography (CT) of the shoulder and compared the HV to the metaphyseal version (MV) to evaluate reliability in predicting the anatomic version. Method: A retrospective review of 50 shoulder CT scans was carried out. Patients were excluded if the anatomy prevented HV or MV evaluation. The HV and MV was measured by 2 independent evaluators. Inter and intra-rater reliability was performed. Results: There were 27 right and 23 left shoulder CT’s reviewed. The mean age of patients was 45.3 (range 13–85). The difference between the MV and HV was approximately 2.8 (95% CI 0.63–5.1). Inter and intra-rater reliability was 0.966 and 0.984, respectively. Conclusion: Determining the version of the humeral head in the setting of fracture is difficult and highly inaccurate. The biceps groove has been previously cited as a landmark for arthroplasty position, however, given the anatomic variability, version may be miscalculated. We have demonstrated the medial calcar of the proximal humerus is within 3 degrees of the actual humeral head version. This CT guided approach is novel, reproducible and demonstrates excellent reliability. It is both accurate and consistent and may be successfully utilized in the setting where normal anatomic landmarks are absent, such as fracture

Aim: To evaluate long term effects of stress shieldieng phenomenon after cementless total hip arthroplasty. Materials-Methods: 80 female pts with OA were randomly allocated in 4 groups according to the type of the cementless stem which was primarily implanted (A-Zwey-Muller,B-Corail,C- Optifix,DAutophor900S). BMD changes of the operated hip (in seven zones), of the operated, contralateral normal hip and of the Lumbar spine were measured pre-op, at 2, 8 and 12 months and every year thereafter. Results: At ten years, 72 pts were available for follow up, all with satisfactory clinical and radiological results with no evidence of polyethylene wear or endosteal lysis. In all groups, the greatest reduction of BMD (calcar atrophyzone 7) was observed at the 2nd post-op year (A:24%, B:8%, C:14.8%, D:18.5%). In all groups, the greatest increase (zone 4) of BMD was also observed at the 2nd post-op year (A7%, B2%, C2.5%, D6.3%). In all groups a similar pattern of slow but progressive recovery of bone mineral density changes after the 3rd year was observed in both zones, approaching baseline values at 10 years in all groups. Preoperative lumbar BMD (osteopenia), body weight, sex and height were not statisticaly correlated to calcar atrophy. Conclusions:We suggest that the clinical and theoretical relevance of stress shielding phenomenon in total hip replacement has been overestimated in the literature

Aim

Chronic osteomyelitis of the calcaneus is a frequent problem in a population of diabetic patients, patients with neurologic disorders or bedridden patients with ulcers. Partial calcanectomy is an alternative option which avoid major amputation. The aim of this retrospective study was to determine the effectiveness of partial calcanectomy for treating chronic osteomyelitis of the calcaneux.

Aim: Evaluation of intermediate clinical and radiographic results of displaced intra-articular fractures of the calcaneus treated with ORIF. Materials- Methods: From 1994 to 2002, 167 displaced intra-articular fractures of the calcaneus were treated with ORIF. There were 145 male and 12 female patients. Mean age 34 years. Standard x-rays, Broden views and CT-scan images in coronal and transverse plane were obtained pre and post operatively. Fractures were classified as type III, IV, V according to Sanders. All fractures were approached through an extended lateral L-type approach. AO calcaneal plate was used. Average follow-up was 5 years. Results: In 143 Sanders type III and IV fractures KITA-OKA score was 91. Reduction failure rate was 5.5%(8 pts). 24 patients had Sanders type V fractures and KITAOKA score was 84 and reduction failure rate was 25% (6 pts). 29/167 patients complained of peroneal tendons tenderness which subsided after hardware removal. 79/167 patients had restriction of subtalar joint movements but no complains (SF_36) There were two superficial wound infections and five patients with delayed wound closure. In a group of 45 patients with similar fracture patterns who were treated conservatively, KITA-OKA score was 71, 41 fractures were malunited, 40 patients had moderate to severe pain and early OA sings. Conclutions: Displaced intra-articular fractures of the calcaneus should be treated as any other displaced intra-articular fracture, with open reduction and stable internal fixation

Aims: The purpose of this study is comparative analysis of different surgical methods of calcaneal fractures treatment. Methods: From 1992 to 2001 we treated 132 patient (161 feet) with displaced intra-articular fractures of the calcaneus. All of these fractures have been classified according to the Essex-Lopresti Rx classification. 7 fractures were type A, 14 – type B1, 22 – type B2. Type C1 occurred in 51 cases, type C2- in 58 and type D – in 9 cases. 113 patients (134 feet) had fresh trauma (2–10 days after injury) and in 18 cases (27 feet) 3 up to 6 weeks passed from the moment of the injury. In 52 cases (62 feet) we used closed reduction and external fixation with Ilizarov apparatus. In other AO-implants were used: reconstruction 3,5 mm plate (19 cases), T-plate (12 cases), “Tampa plate”(59 feet) and new Locking Calcaneal Plate (9 feet). All patients underwent pre- and postoperative standard lateral and axial X-Ray and CT-scans. Follow-up results were analysed through 6 and 12 months. Results: Good and excellent results (no pain, no deformities and good function) were obtained in 74,2% patients, satisfactory results – in 18,2% of cases. In 7 patients the superficial skin necrosis was observed, in 5 cases deep wound infection developed. The best results are received in cases of Locking Calcaneal Plate application. Conclusions: Fractures of the calcaneus should be treated like other intra-articular fractures, i.e. careful reduction, stable fixation and early mobilization. Indirect reduction and external fixation can be applied only in A and B1-type of fractures. In fractures of B2 and C types good results can be obtained only by using stable osteosynthesis. In D-type fractures and neglected/delayed C2-fractures it is better to apply a primary sub-talar arthrodesis.