Neue Techniken in der operativen Versorgung von Calcaneusfrakturen

The ideal treatment of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures is still controversially discussed. Because of the variable fracture patterns and the vulnerable soft tissue coverage an individual treatment concept is advisable. In order to minimize wound edge necrosis associated with extended lateral approaches, selected fractures may be treated percutaneously or in a less invasive manner while controlling joint reduction via a sinus tarsi approach. Fixation in these cases is achieved with screws, intramedullary locking nails or modified plates that are slid in subcutaneously. A thorough knowledge of the three dimensional calcaneal anatomy and open reduction maneuvers is a prerequisite for good results with less invasive techniques. Early functional follow-up treatment aims at early rehabilitation independent of the kind of fixation. Peripheral fractures of the talus and calcaneus frequently result from subluxation and dislocation at the subtalar and Chopart joints. They are still regularly overlooked and result in painful arthritis if left untreated. If an exact anatomical reduction of these intra-articular fractures is impossible, resection of small fragments is indicated.     

Neue Techniken in der operativen Versorgung von Calcaneusfrakturen

The ideal treatment of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures is still controversially discussed. Because of the variable fracture patterns and the vulnerable soft tissue coverage an individual treatment concept is advisable. In order to minimize wound edge necrosis associated with extended lateral approaches, selected fractures may be treated percutaneously or in a less invasive manner while controlling joint reduction via a sinus tarsi approach. Fixation in these cases is achieved with screws, intramedullary locking nails or modified plates that are slid in subcutaneously. A thorough knowledge of the three dimensional calcaneal anatomy and open reduction maneuvers is a prerequisite for good results with less invasive techniques. Early functional follow-up treatment aims at early rehabilitation independent of the kind of fixation. Peripheral fractures of the talus and calcaneus frequently result from subluxation and dislocation at the subtalar and Chopart joints. They are still regularly overlooked and result in painful arthritis if left untreated. If an exact anatomical reduction of these intra-articular fractures is impossible, resection of small fragments is indicated.     

Subtalar dislocations: Mechanisms,clinical presentation and methods of reduction

Subtalar joint is a complex joint in hindfoot formed by the talus superiorly and the calcaneus and navicular inferiorly. Subtalar dislocations are high-mechanism injuries, which are caused by simultaneous dislocation of both talonavicular and talocalcaneal joints, without major fracture of the talus. They are usually classified as medial (most common), lateral, anterior and posterior dislocations, based on the position of foot in relation to talus and the indirect forces that have been applied to cause this significant injury. They are usually diagnosed by X rays, but computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging can be used to identify associated intra-articular fractures and peri-talar soft tissue injuries respectively. Majority being closed injuries, can be managed in ED by closed reduction and cast immobilisation, but if they are open, have poor outcomes. Complications that ensue open dislocations are post-traumatic arthritis, instability and avascular necrosis.     

小切口复位空心钉内固定治疗跟骨骨折

目的探讨经距下关节小切口撬拨复位植骨结合经皮空心钉内固定治疗SandersⅡ、Ⅲ型跟骨关节内骨折的疗效。方法采用跟骨外侧距下关节小切口撬拨复位后植入同种异体骨+经皮空心螺钉内固定治疗35例SandersⅡ、Ⅲ型跟骨骨折患者。测量术前术后Bhler角和Gissane角的变化,根据角度变化数值观察关节面恢复情况。结果 35例均获随访,时间10～32(14±3.5)个月,患者骨折均愈合。未出现切口感染、皮瓣坏死、腓肠神经损伤等并发症。按Maryland足部评分标准评价手术效果:优23例,良9例,可2例,差1例,优良率达91.4%。结论距下关节小切口复位、植骨、经皮空心螺钉内固定治疗SandersⅡ、Ⅲ型跟骨骨折,软组织损伤少、关节面复位好,疗效满意。     

Dislocations of the talus joints

With the exception of fracture dislocations following fractures of the ankle joint and talus, dislocations in the talus are very infrequent injuries. They pose a lot of management problems: soft-tissue damage in open and closed dislocations, imperfect reduction caused by osteochondral fragments, recurrent instability, and aseptic necrosis of the talus, which is greatly feared. Anatomical and prognostic criteria are included in a classification of mono-, bi- and triarticular dislocations of the talus. Based on six of our own cases treated in the last 12 months, we report the mechanisms of injury, management, and early results. In accordance with the results in the literature in the last few years, reconstruction of ligament damage and joint debridement were carried out in four cases and the results described. One case of open total dislocation of the talus is presented, which was complicated by a fracture of the calcaneus without traumatic avascular necrosis.     

跟骨骨折内固定方法的有限元模拟比较

目的：对应用不同钢板固定跟骨关节内骨折手术治疗方法进行比较检验。方法：应用三维有限元模拟跟骨关节内冠状面骨折。跟骨的形状与材料属性取自CT扫描图像。模型正确性已经尸体检验。对模型的距下关节面施加600N垂直载荷。检验H型、T型和Y型3种钢板对跟骨骨折的固定效果。结果：H型钢板对骨折固定最为牢固，但T型钢板固定的骨的应力分布最接近正常跟骨且其钢板与螺钉的应力集中程度最小。结论：应用有限元法对不同钢板固定跟骨骨折进行比较检验是切实可行的并能获取有益的信息。     

Fractures of the tuberosity of the calcaneus

We describe 24 fractures of the tuberosity of the calcaneus in 22 patients. Three were similar to the type of avulsion fracture which has been well-defined but the remainder represent a group which has been unrecognised previously. Using CT and operative findings we have defined the different patterns of fracture of the calcaneal tuberosity. Ten fractures extended into the subtalar joint, but did not fit the pattern of the common intra-articular fracture as described classically. We have defined a new pattern which consists of a fracture of the medial calcaneal process with a further fracture which separates the upper part of the tuberosity in the semicoronal plane. Non-operative treatment of displaced fractures resulted in a mis-shapen heel and a poor functional outcome. Open reduction and internal fixation with either a plate or compression screw did not give satisfactory fixation. We prefer to use an oblique lateral tension-band wire. This technique gave excellent fixation and we recommend it for the treatment of displaced fractures of the tuberosity of the calcaneus.     

Open reduction and stable fixation of isolated, displaced talar neck and body fractures

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this retrospective review was to evaluate the long-term results of surgical treatment of isolated, displaced talar neck and/or body fractures with stable internal fixation. METHODS: The study included twenty-five patients with a total of twenty-six displaced fractures isolated to the talus that had been treated with open reduction and stable internal fixation and followed for a minimum of forty-eight months after the injury. The final follow-up examination included standard radiographs, computed tomography, and a clinical evaluation. Variables that were analyzed included wound type, fracture type, Hawkins type, comminution, timing of the surgical intervention, surgical approach, quality of fracture reduction, Hawkins sign, osteonecrosis, union, time to union, posttraumatic arthritis, and the AOFAS scores including subscores (pain, function, and alignment). RESULTS: The average duration of follow-up was seventy-four months. Surgical intervention resulted in sixteen fractures with an anatomic reduction, five with a nearly anatomic reduction, and five with a poor reduction. All eight noncomminuted fractures were anatomically reduced. The overall union rate was 88%. All closed, displaced talar neck fractures healed, regardless of the time delay until surgical intervention. Posttraumatic arthritis of the subtalar joint was the most common finding and was seen in all patients, sixteen of whom had involvement of more than one joint. Osteonecrosis was a common finding, seen after thirteen of the twenty-six fractures overall and after six of the seven open fractures. CONCLUSIONS: Open reduction and internal fixation is recommended for the treatment of displaced talar neck and/or body fractures. A delay in surgical fixation does not appear to affect the outcome, union, or prevalence of osteonecrosis. Posttraumatic arthritis is a more common complication than osteonecrosis following operative treatment. Patients with a displaced fracture of the talus should be counseled that posttraumatic arthritis and chronic pain are expected outcomes even after anatomic reduction and stable fixation. This is especially true following open fractures.     

Treatment of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures with triangular tube-to-bar external fixation: long-term clinical follow-up and radiographic analysis

Sixty-six feet (62 patients) with displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures underwent manual reduction and distraction with the use of a triangular tube-to-bar external fixation device and were retrospectively reviewed at a minimum of 1-year post-operative. Final radiographic follow-up revealed complete consolidation in all fractures, maintenance of reduction, and limited degenerative osteoarthrosis about the subtalar joint. Our results indicate that with proper application and attention to detail, restoration of calcaneal morphology using triangular tube-to-bar external fixation should be considered a viable alternative in the treatment of displaced intra-articular fractures of the calcaneus.     

Fractures of the lateral process of the talus

Thirteen patients with isolated fractures of the lateral process of the talus were reviewed. Two fracture types were seen: an intra-articular type in seven cases and an avulsion type in six cases. The former occurs at the base of the process as a result of blows to the calcaneus. The latter occurs at the tip as a result of traction by ligaments. Open reduction and internal fixation were performed in four cases of displaced intraarticular-type fracture and in one case of unstable avulsion type fracture. Bone union was complete, and the results were good in every case. However, pain on walking persisted in two cases treated conservatively. It was suspected that many isolated fractures of the lateral process of the talus are misdiagnosed as severe sprain and cause persistent ankle pain. Thus, accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment in the early stages are essential to prevent persistent symptoms.     

Treatment of talar neck fractures: Clinical results of 50 patients

Fractures of the neck and body of the talus present as one of the most challenging and rare injuries. These fractures are often associated with other ankle, foot, and skeletal injuries, which complicate their treatment. The clinical course of 50 patients with a mean age of 29 years with a severe talus fracture between 1992 and 1997 is presented. According to the Hawkins classification there were 16 (32%) of type I, 14 (28%) of type II, 9 (18%) of type III, and 11 (22%) of type IV. Forty-three patients (86%) underwent operative treatment: 27 (63%) by open reduction and internal fixation with screws, seven (16%) by external fixation, five (12%) with percutaneous screws, and four (9%) by closed reduction with K-wire fixation. Mild osteoarthritis of the talocrural joint was seen in 14 patients (28%) and severe osteoarthritis in 10 patients (20%), five of whom required subsequent arthrodesis of the ankle joint. Arthrodesis of the subtalar joint was observed in 4 cases. Avascular necrosis with collapse of the talar body was seen in four patients (8%). The function of the ankle joint was evaluated according to the Weber score. Patients with talus fractures of Hawkins' type I and II had considerably better outcomes (with 95% being excellent or good) than individuals suffering dislocated fractures with involvement of the articulating surface with 70% good results in Hawkins' type III and 10% good results in Hawkins' type IV fractures. For the evaluation of the vitality of the talus body in cases with titanium implants, the authors used magnetic resonance imaging and intraosseous phlebography in cases with stainless steel implants. The displaced talus fractures must be treated by closed and, if necessary, open reduction with internal fixation. The initial postoperative management should consist of ambulation without weightbearing until radiographic appearance of trabecular bone in the fracture zone, indicating revascularization, can be manifested.     

Percutaneous,arthroscopically-assisted osteosynthesis of calcaneus fractures

BACKGROUND: The development of major and minor wound complications is a major concern in the open reduction and internal fixation of displaced intra-articular calcaneus fractures. Percutaneous, arthroscopically assisted screw osteosynthesis was developed to minimize the surgical approach without risking inadequate reduction of the subtalar joint. The method was applied in selected cases of displaced intra-articular calcaneus fractures with one fracture line crossing the posterior calcaneal facet (Sanders type II fractures). METHODS: Between March 1998 and July 2000, 15 patients were treated with that method. Percutaneous leverage was carried out with a Schanz screw introduced into the tuberosity fragment (the Westhues maneuver) under direct arthroscopic and fluoroscopic control. After anatomic reduction was achieved, the fragments were fixed with three to six cancellous screws introduced via stab incisions. RESULTS: The functional results of 10 patients at a minimum of 1 year follow-up are good to excellent, with an average AOFAS ankle-hindfoot score of 93.7 (range 87-100) and an average Maryland Foot Score of 95.8 (range 93-100). Overall patient comfort and satisfaction were superior to open reduction for similar fracture patterns, and the in-hospital time could be reduced. CONCLUSIONS: Percutaneous, arthroscopically assisted osteosynthesis offers exact assessment of the articular surface and allows anatomical reduction while adhering to the principles of minimally invasive surgery. The short-term results are excellent, while long-term results with greater patient cohorts are awaited.     

Displaced intra-articular calcaneal fracture treated surgically with limited posterior incision

The incidence of calcaneal fracture has been slowly increasing; however, the ideal treatment for displaced intra-articular fracture is not available yet, even though the fracture brings frequent complication and disability. Between April 1991 and March 1998, we treated 103 displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures of 92 patients surgically with limited posterior incision, modified Gallie approach. There were thirty-seven tongue-type fractures, fifteen tongue-type fractures with moderate comminution, nineteen joint-depression fractures, twenty-nine joint-depression fractures with moderate comminution, and three extensively comminuted fractures. The fracture fragments were fixed mainly with partly threaded small cancellous screws or Steinmann pins without any bone graft. Ankle and subtalar motion was permitted immediately if fixation were stable enough. Otherwise, a short period of cast immobilization was utilized. With a mean follow-up of 28 months (range, 12 to 66 months), eighty six percent of feet had no pain or only occasional pain not requiring medication. Using American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society hindfoot score system for assessment, ninety percent of feet rated as good to excellent. We used "Circle draw test" for evaluation of subtalar motion during follow-up visitation and found eight-seven percent of feet showed good to excellent correlation with the functional recovery. We recommend a limited posterior incision for reduction and internal fixation of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures. For displaced intra-articular fractures with three or four large fragments without further comminution and without a displaced fracture of the calcaneal cuboid joint, this method is particularly useful. We also recommend a Circle draw test for evaluation of subtalar joint motion as well as an indicator of functional recovery after displaced calcaneal fractures.     

解剖钢板内固定治疗跟骨关节内骨折

目的探讨应用跟骨解剖钢板内固定治疗不同类型跟骨关节内骨折的临床疗效。方法对56例跟骨关节内骨折患者行切开复位跟骨解剖钢板内固定治疗,其中36例予以自体髂骨植骨。结果 56例均获随访,时间12~32（21.1±3.5）个月。未发现关节面塌陷、复位丢失、螺钉固定不良现象。根据Maryland足部评分系统：优25例,良22例,可7例,差2例,优良率为83.9%。结论切开复位解剖钢板内固定治疗跟骨关节内骨折,能早期功能锻炼,减少并发症,降低病残率。     

Treatment of Bennett, Rolando, and vertical intraarticular trapezial fractures

Intraarticular fractures at the first trapeziometacarpal joint include Bennett, Rolando, and vertical intraarticular fractures of the trapezium. If these fractures heal in a displaced position, a traumatic arthritis quickly develops at the thumb base. Open reduction and lag screw rigid internal fixation of a Bennett fracture is advisable if a satisfactory closed reduction cannot be obtained. If the palmar and dorsal displaced fragments of a Rolando fracture are of adequate size, an open reduction internal fixation may be performed with small lag screws incorporated through a T- or L-shaped buttress plate. A displaced vertical intraarticular fracture of the trapezium may be easily misdiagnosed as a trivial chip fracture, unless specific radiographic views are obtained. Open reduction internal fixation is the only treatment method that will provide a satisfactory outcome for this fracture.     

Fracture dislocation of the talus combined with pilon or bimalleolar fracture: a report of two cases

Talar fractures are uncommon and talar body fracture dislocations are still rare. Simultaneous fractures of the ankle and the talar body are rare and the reported incidence in the literature is fewer than 1% of the ankle fractures. We present two cases of patients, who sustained a simultaneous fracture dislocation of talar body with fracture of medial malleolus and/or tibial pilon. The patients were treated with open reduction and internal fixation of talus through the malleolar fracture. They were evaluated at 1 year (case 1) and 8 years (case 2) of follow-up. The prognosis after this fracture dislocation is poor because of the very high risk of avascular necrosis and arthritis, even after anatomic reduction.     

Surgical treatment of displaced fractures of posterior column and posterior wall of the acetabulum

We evaluated the results of open reduction and internal fixation of displaced posterior wall and posterior column fractures of the acetabulum. This was a prospective clinical evaluation of such cases where the main surgical strategy was open reduction and internal fixation with interfragmentary screws and reconstruction plates. Data on 11 patients treated by open reduction (all via Kocher-Langenbech approach)/internal fixation with interfragmentary screws and reconstruction plates were collected. The follow-up period was 61 (18-102) months. Reduction with a fracture gap of less than 2mm without articular stepping was achieved in all 11 cases. Postoperative complications developed in five patients, including subcutaneous haematoma in one, avascular necrosis of the femoral head (AVNFH) in one and heterotopic ossification (HO) in three. All but the patient with AVNFH, had anatomic radiological reduction, and good to excellent functional results. Open reduction and internal fixation with interfragmentary screws and reconstruction plates is the treatment of choice in displaced posterior wall and posterior column fractures of the acetabulum.     

开放性距骨脱位的手术治疗

目的：探讨手术治疗开放性距骨脱位的临床疗效。方法：收集2001年6月至2008年7月资料完整的开放性距骨脱位患者11例,男8例,女3例;年龄19～52岁,平均39.5岁。按照Gustilo分型：Ⅰ型2例,Ⅱ型6例,ⅢA型2例,ⅢB型1例。胫距关节脱位5例（其中合并距下关节脱位3例）,距下关节脱位4例,距骨完全脱位2例。8例合并距骨不同部位骨折。所有患者均在伤后8h内接受清创、复位内固定加石膏或外固定支架固定。术后6周去除外固定。X线提示骨折愈合后负重。随访时摄踝关节正侧位、足部正位X线片,并按照美国足踝外科协会（AOFAS）对后足功能评分标准从疼痛、功能、力线等方面进行评分。结果：11例患者随访时间为10～15个月,平均13.8个月。8例合并不同部位骨折的患者均获得愈合,愈合时间4～7个月,平均4.3个月,无伤口及深部感染。距骨坏死2例,创伤性关节炎2例。末次随访时AOFAS评分为（71.3±8.6）分,其中疼痛（32.4±7.1）分,功能（31.0±15.7）分,力线（7.6±2.3）分。结论：对于开放性距骨脱位,通过积极彻底清创可以避免感染的发生;早期复位和固定是治疗的关键。     

小切口复位植骨空心钉内固定治疗部分跟骨关节内骨折的短期疗效分析

背景:手术治疗是跟骨关节内骨折有效的治疗方法,如何减少手术创伤,提高手术疗效,是临床研究的难题。目的:探讨小切口复位植骨空心钉内固定治疗部分跟骨关节内骨折的短期疗效。方法:2006年1月至2010年1月,对27例(32足)部分塌陷移位的跟骨关节内骨折(Sanders分型为Ⅱ~Ⅲ型)采用距下关节外侧小切口入路、复位距下关节面、同种异体骨移植,中空钉内固定进行治疗。术后患者均石膏托外固定4周。结果:所有患者术后获得6～48个月(平均22.9个月)随访,骨折全部愈合。按Maryland足部评分标准评价手术效果:优22足,良7足,可3足,优良率91%。无一例发生切口皮缘坏死及螺钉断裂。结论:有移位的Ⅱ、Ⅲ型跟骨关节内骨折,采用小切口切开复位植骨空心钉内固定治疗可获得满意疗效,能避免切口缘浅表坏死等并发症的发生,短期疗效可靠。     

Fractures of the talus

Peripheral fractures of the talus, such as fractures of the posterior and lateral process, need no special therapy. Larger fragments with dislocation require open reduction and screw fixation. Small flake fractures with stability of the joint can be removed arthroscopically, but larger fractures should be repositioned with K-wires, small screws. Ethipin or fibrin sealant. Dislocated fractures of the head of the talus should be reduced and fixed by screws or K-wires. Fractures of the neck of the talus with anteromedial or lateral dislocation can be treated by closed reduction and external fixation, irreducible fractures by open reduction and screw fixation. Fractures of the neck and body of the talus with dorsal dislocation or subluxation in the talonavicular joint require osteotomy of the internal malleolus, open reduction and screw fixation. Comminuted and open fractures of the body of the talus are treated by minimal osteosynthesis with K-wires or external fixation. In necrosis of the talus, revascularization using iliac crest bone with vascular pedicle seems to be successful. In arthrosis cases, triple arthrodesis is the best solution.