AbstractIntroduction: Calcaneal fractures usually occur by a fall from height when one lands on their feet. In this study we aimed to compare the functional outcome and radiological findings after treatment by steinmen pin (K-wire) and by plating method. Methodology: We designed a prospective study of all patients who were admitted and operated for calcaneum fractures in the Department of Orthopedics, Padmashree Dr. D. Y, Patil Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra from July 2015 till December 2017. Of the 30 cases, half received treatment with K-wire and the other half of the patients underwent plating. Baseline characteristics, pre- and post-operative Bohler’s and Gissane’s angles and complications were noted for all patients.
Functional outcome was assessed using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS). Results: Bohler’s angle increased significantly postoperatively (p<0.05) for both the group of patients. Similarly Gissane’s angle decreased in the postoperative period significantly (p<0.05). Of the patients who received K-wire, 5 patients (34%) had excellent outcome, 6 patients (40%) had good outcome, 2 patients (13%) had fair outcome while 2 patients (13%) had poor outcome. For the patients who underwent plating procedure, 7 patients (47%) had excellent outcome, 6 patients (40%) had good outcome while 2 patients (13%) had fair outcome. In the group which received Kwire treatment, 5 out of 15 patients developed heel pain while 3 patients had subtalar and ankle stiffness. In the group which underwent plating, 2 out of 15 patients got wound infection while 1 had subtalar and ankle stiffness. Conclusions: Cannulated screw and plate fixation have similar clinical outcomes. Future studies are needed to support our findings.
Keywords: Calcaneus Fracture; Cannulated Screws Fixation; Plate Fixation.