Minimally invasive internal fixation of calcaneal fractures or subtalar joint arthrodesis using the Calcanail®

Abstract

Objective: A minimally invasive technique to prevent soft tissue problems using a calcaneal nail (Calcanail®, FH Orthopedics, Heimsbrunn, France) for calcaneal fractures or in subtalar joint arthrodesis is described.

Indications: Displaced extra-articular calcaneal fractures involving the tuberosity fragment and in displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures with impression and/or displacement of the subtalar joint surface. Subtalar joint arthrodesis for posttraumatic subtalar osteoarthritis.

Contraindications: Severely displaced fractures type Sanders IV with the purpose of internal fixation; peripheral calcaneal fractures; general contraindications for operative treatment.

Surgical technique: Minimally invasive reduction of calcaneal fractures using a special distractor and a graft pusher through a calcaneal working channel. Fixation performed via the insertion of the Calcanail® and the two locking screws, optional additional screws. Subtalar joint arthrodesis with a Calcanail® used with optional three locking screws to fix the talus and calcaneus creating an angular stable construct.

Postoperative management: Mobilization and restricted weight-bearing for 6 weeks in the patient's own shoes after fracture fixation or in a walker after arthrodesis.

Results: Preliminary results of 69 cases from three surgical centers have already been published. From 2013-2017, the technique was used in 48 of our own patients (42 calcaneal fracture reduction and fixation; 6 for subtalar joint arthrodesis). Mean postoperative hospital stay was 7 days for fracture reduction without any need of additional operations. During follow-up, 6 implant removals and 2 secondary subtalar fusions were noticed. All 6 cases of subtalar joint arthrodesis were planned in posttraumatic subtalar osteoarthritis.

Keywords: Calcaneus; Foot joints; Fracture reduction and fixation; Minimally invasive surgical procedures; Osteoarthritis.