Transverse tibial bone transport for treatment of calcaneal osteomyelitis: a case report

Soft tissue defects of the posterior heel region with underlying osteomyelitis are challenging conditions to manage, particularly in the setting of concomitant peripheral arterial disease and diabetes mellitus. Such wounds are associated with high rates of amputation, loss of independence and high mortality. Transverse bone transport (TBT) is an evolving technique involving gradual distraction of the tibial cortex to promote angiogenesis of the lower extremity, improving extremity perfusion and overall wound healing potential. Recent applications of this technique demonstrate favorable healing in diabetic foot wounds with improved limb salvage rates. Herein, we describe a unique case where TBT was employed in conjunction with external fixation to successfully achieve wound healing and limb preservation in the setting of a posterior heel wound with calcaneal osteomyelitis.