Modified extensile calcaneal exposure is safe.

Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of open reduction and internal fixation for displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures through a modified tarsal sinus incision.

Methods: A retrospective review over 3 years of the clinical data of patients with intra-articular calcaneal fractures treated with open reduction and internal fixation through lateral hook curvy incisions. The efficacy of the 25 lateral hook curvy incisions was analyzed.

Results: According to the AOFAS hindfoot function scoring criteria, there were 20 excellent (80%), 2 good (8%), 2 fair (8%), and 1 poor patient outcome. The average pre-operative Bohler's angle was 6.8 ± 8.9°, and the average angle at follow-up was 33.6 ± 5.7°. The average pre-operative Gissane angle was 89.2 ± 20.0°, and the average angle at follow-up was 115.5 ± 5.5°.

Conclusions: A lateral hook curvy incision can expose the posterior articular surface of the calcaneus and the calcaneocuboid joint, reduce stripping and pulling of the soft tissue, and avoid calcaneus valgus caused by the pulling of the peroneus tendon.