Clinical application of the sinus tarsi approach in the treatment of intra-articular calcaneal fracture

To observe the clinical outcome of the sinus tarsi approach in the operative treatment of intra-articular calcaneal fractures.Forty-nine intra-articular calcaneal fractures in 45 patients were managed surgically with sinus tarsi approach. The anatomical plate and compression bolts were applied in 14 feet. The anatomical plate and screws were applied in 35 feet. Maryland foot score system was used to evaluate the function of the hindfoot at the followup.The reduction of the posterior facet was graded as nearly anatomical (less than 2mm articular displacement) in 46 feet (93.9%). The width, height, and Bohler angle were significantly improved in all patients (P<.01). After a mean follow-up period of 18.7 months (14.5-29 months), the Maryland foot scores were: 34 feet scored 90-100 points (excellent), 6 feet scored 80-90 points (good), 6 feet scored 70-80 points (fair), and 3 feet scored 60-70 points (poor). Incision-edge necrosis occurred in 2 cases. One case suffered from incomplete medial plantar nerve injury. One case suffered from heel pad branch of the tibial nerve injury. Six cases suffered from sural nerve injury, and 4 cases sustained a lateral wound dehiscence due to a hematoma. No case suffered from lateral impingement syndrome. Up to now, no patient had to accept subtalar arthrodesis.Sinus tarsi approach provides good exposure to the subtalar joint. Open reduction and internal fixation of calcaneus fractures through a sinus tarsi approach allows adequate reduction with low risk of wound-healing complications.