Treatment of calcaneal fractures with plate via minimally invasive approach

Objective To evaluate the clinical effects of sinus tarsi approach and eight-shape approach in the treatment of calcaneal fractures. Methods Analyzed the outcomes of 23 patients(21 males and 2 females) with calcaneal fractures(25 feet) treated with plate via sinus tarsi approach and eight-shape approach.The mean age of patients was 38 years old(ranged from 24 to 55 years). According to Sanders classification: 16 feet in type Ⅱ, 9 feet in type Ⅲ. Results The average operation time was 85 min(ranged from 70 min to 100 min), and no wound complications occurred.X-ray review showed that bony healing, and healing time was 3-6 months.The average duration of follow-up was 13 months(ranged from 12 to 18 months). The result was excellent in sixthteen cases, good in six cases and fair in one case according to Maryland score.The satisfactory rate was 95.6%. Conclusion Open reduction and internal fixation via the sinus tarsi approach and eight-shape approach provides not only reliable fixation, but also less complications. Key words: Calcaneal fractures; Fracture fixation