Computerized tomography in evaluation and treatment planning of calcaneal fractures

Background. The tarsal bones and their articular surfaces have been difficult to show on standard roentgenograms including supplementary projections. Authors present different radiologic methods and classification systems of the fractures of the calcaneus.
Material and methods. Computerized tomography was used to evaluate 20 fractures of the calcaneus which was treated at the Orthopedic and Traumatology Department in Wejherowo from July to October 2001. To treatment planning a classification systems based on CT scans was developed.
Results. TC scans showed intraarticular fractures in 17 cases. There were four type 1 (not displaced), ten type 2 (displaced), three typ 3 (comminuted).
Conclusions. Computerized tomography should be a technique of choice in the calcaneal fracture evaluation and treatment planning.