[Translated article] Treatment of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures using a sinus tarsi approach. Surgical technique

Abstract

Calcaneal articular fractures are fractures classically associated with a high rate of complications and poor outcomes. Osteosynthesis of the calcaneus through a sinus tarsi approach has shown results equal to or superior to those of the extended approach, having become the new gold standard.

The objective of this article is to detail step by step the surgical technique of osteosynthesis of intra-articular fractures of the calcaneus through a sinus tarsi approach, from the selection of the fracture, positioning of the patient, layout of the operating room and the fluoroscope, the entire surgical process until postoperative treatment.

The surgical technique described below is described in 6 steps.

• 1.
  Layout of the operating room. Patient and fluoroscope positioning.
• 2.
  Reduction of the posterior tuberosity (correct height and varus).
• 3.
  Sinus tarsi approach.
• 4.
  Reduction of the articular surface and correct visualisation. Arthroscopy.
• 5.
  Fixation of the articular surface.
• 6.
  Fixation of the posterior tuberosity.

Anatomical reduction of complex calcaneal fractures through an sinus tarsi approach requires an understanding of the fracture and its associated deformities. Following the described sequence step by step will help to achieve a better reduction in order to achieve better functional results.