(ii) The hindfoot: Calcaneal and talar fractures and dislocations-Part I: Fractures of the calcaneum

While extra-articular calcaneal fractures are usually treated simply with good results, the management of intra-articular calcaneal fractures remains controversial. Despite advances in surgical techniques and a good understanding of possible complications making operative treatment relatively 'safe', doubts remain about the efficacy of surgery in reducing the two main problems of persistent pain and subtalar osteoarthritis. Further randomised controlled trials may be required to confirm or refute the potential benefits of surgery.