Sinus Tarsi Approach for the Treatment of Calcaneus Fractures: an Increasingly Used Technique
Abstract
Objective: To describe functional and radiographic outcomes, and complications of osteosynthesis in calcaneus fractures with the sinus tarsi approach. Materials and Methods: 54 displaced articular calcaneus fractures in 50 patients were assessed through preoperative foot radiographs (anteroposterior and lateral) and computerized tomography. AP and lateral radiographs were obtained in the immediate postoperative period (without weightbearing), after 6 and 12 weeks (with weightbearing), and at the end of follow-up, measuring the Böhler angle and quantifying the degree of subtalar and calcaneocuboid osteoarthritis. The AOFAS score was determined, registering wound complications, neurological injuries and necessary additional surgeries --such as osteosynthesis and subtalar arthrodesis hardware removal. Results: Follow-up time was 30.8 months. The series consisted in 8 women and 42 men. The patients’ average age was 39.40±14 years (18-65). There were 40 Sanders type II, 13 type III, and 1 type IV fractures.The AOFAS score was excellent (12 patients), good (25), regular (12), and poor (5). The Böhler angle was 10.8°±10.4° before surgery, and 30.77°±8.24° at the end of follow-up (p<0.00001). 3.7% of the patients presented minor wound complications, while 5.6% presented major wound complications. Conclusion: The sinus tarsi approach allows for acceptable reduction with good and excellent outcomes in most patients, coupled with few soft-tissue complications.Downloads
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