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Calcaneus Fracture Updated 4/2010

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BASICS

  • Description
  • Epidemiology
  • Risk Factors
  • Pathophysiology
  • Etiology
  • Associated Conditions

DIAGNOSIS

  • Signs and Symptoms
  • Tests
  • Differential Diagnosis

TREATMENT

  • General Measures
  • Special Therapy
  • Medication (Drugs)
  • Surgery

Ongoing Care

  • Disposition
  • Prognosis
  • Complications
  • Patient Monitoring
The following is an excerpt....
BASICS
Description
  • Calcaneus fractures affect the calcaneus (heel bone) and the subtalar joint (between the talus and calcaneus).
    • Often high-energy injuries with substantial bony comminution and soft-tissue swelling
    • As such, often very difficult to treat
  • Calcaneus fractures may be intra-articular, involving the subtalar joint, or extra-articular.
    • Extra-articular fractures have better outcomes and can be treated nonoperatively.
    • Intra-articular fractures have a worse prognosis and can be associated with severe heel widening, shoe wear problems, gait abnormalities, foot stiffness, and chronic pain.
Epidemiology
Incidence

Uncommon, but the calcaneus is the most commonly fractured tarsal bone.

Risk Factors
  • Osteoporosis
  • Jumping activities
  • Work at heights
Pathophysiology
  • Fracture patterns depend on the following:
    • Force of impact
    • Orientation of the ...

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See Also
Images >
Fig. 1. Femur fracture in a 10-year-old (A) treated with flexible intramedullary nails (B).
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