The role of 64-MDCT with 3D images in evaluation of intra-articular calcaneal fractures and management planning

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to assess the usefulness of 64-multi-detector computed tomography (64-MDCT) in diagnosis, classification and pretreatment planning of intra-articular calcaneal fractures.Subjects and methods40 patients presented to emergency room with ankle swelling and pain following fall from height or motor car accident. They presented from June 2013 to December 2014. Their ages ranged from 22 to 58 years (mean age 40 years). 30 cases were males and 10 were females. All patients were subjected to 64-MDCT with 3D reformatted images.ResultsA total of 44 intra-articular calcaneal fractures were found. 8 fractures were type I, 12 were of type II, 14 were of type III and 10 fractures were type IV according to Sander’s classification. Also 24 fractures were tongue type and 20 fractures were joint depression type according to Essex-Lopresti classification. 4 fractures were bilateral and 36 fractures were unilateral. 24 fractures had associated soft tissue edema. Conservative management was done on types I and IV intra-articular fractures (except one fracture), while operative treatment was done on types II and III.ConclusionThe use of 64-MDCT with 3D images was essential in diagnosis, classification and pretreatment planning of intra-articular calcaneal fractures.