Epidemiology of Calcaneal Fractures in a Level One Trauma Center in the United Arab Emirates: A Retrospective Study.

Abstract

Background: Calcaneal fractures are one of the most common fractures affecting the tarsal bone; however, their epidemiology and management in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is not well studied.

Objective: To evaluate the epidemiology, injury patterns, and treatment approaches for calcaneal fractures in the UAE.

Methods: This retrospective study included adult patients (≥18 years) who were diagnosed with calcaneal fractures at Rashid Hospital, Dubai, UAE, over a 6-year period. Demographics, injury characteristics, fracture type, treatment, and associated injuries were all assessed.

Results: A total of 1082 patients with calcaneal fracture cases were included, with males comprising 87.3% (male-to-female ratio: 6.9:1). Most patients were aged 20-39 years (69.5%). The most common cause of the fracture was falls (68.6%), mostly from ≤3 meters (48.9%). Surgery was performed in 28.4% of cases, most often for closed displaced fractures (45.7%). Lower limb (48%) and spine (8.5%) were the most common associated injuries.

Conclusions: Calcaneal fractures in the UAE are predominantly seen in young males, usually resulting from falls, most commonly leading to closed displaced fractures, and commonly associated with significant comorbid injuries. The results support the necessity of providing the target populations with preventive measures and identifying the efficient management approaches to reduce the morbidity level.