Management of Intra-Articular Fractures of the Calcaneus

The majority of calcaneal fractures are intra-articular fractures resulting from high-energy trauma. Many of these occur in young men in their prime working years and result in significant loss of economic productivity. Surgical treatment generally is indicated for displaced, intra-articular fractures. Open reduction and internal fixation through an extensile lateral incision is the mainstay of surgical approaches and has provided consistent results. Minimally invasive techniques are now emerging and new technology, such as locking plates and intraoperative 3-D fluoroscopy, may aid orthopedic surgeons who treat these difficult fractures.