Analysis on the complications after open reduction and internal fixation of calcaneal fractures

Objective To explore the causes of the complications after open reduction and internal fixation of calcaneal fracture. Methods From January 2007 to June 2009, 42 patients with fractured calcaneus received open reduction and internal fixation were enrolled in this study. Results Complications were found in 15 cases. All the patients were followed up for 12~26 months (an average of 21.5 months). The clinical results were evaluated according to Maryland Foot Score. The results is excellent in 30 calcaneus, good in 8 calcaneus, fair in 3 calcaneus, and bad in 5 calcaneus. The excellent and good rate was 82.6%. Conclusion Measures to decrease postoperative complications include: clean the feet carefully and take antimycotic drug before operation, operate after the detumescence of feet, perform precise reduction of calcaneal fracture and bone grafting if necessarily.