Calcaneal fracture

From WikiMD.com Medical Encyclopedia

Calcaneal Fracture[edit | edit source]

A calcaneal fracture is a break in the calcaneus, also known as the heel bone. This type of fracture is often caused by high-energy trauma such as a fall from a height or a motor vehicle accident. Calcaneal fractures can be quite debilitating due to the critical role the calcaneus plays in weight-bearing and walking.

Calcaneal fracture

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The calcaneus is the largest of the tarsal bones in the foot and forms the heel. It is crucial for normal foot function, providing support and stability. The calcaneus articulates with the talus above and the cuboid bone in front, forming part of the subtalar joint and the calcaneocuboid joint.

Types of Calcaneal Fractures[edit | edit source]

Calcaneal fractures can be classified into two main types:

  • Intra-articular fractures: These involve the subtalar joint and are more common, accounting for about 75% of all calcaneal fractures. They are often more severe and can lead to long-term complications such as arthritis.
  • Extra-articular fractures: These do not involve the subtalar joint and are less common. They may occur in the calcaneal tuberosity, the sustentaculum tali, or the anterior process of the calcaneus.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of a calcaneal fracture typically involves a combination of physical examination and imaging studies.

CT scan of calcaneal fracture

Imaging[edit | edit source]

  • X-rays: Standard X-rays are used to assess the fracture and include lateral, axial, and oblique views.
  • CT scans: These provide a more detailed view of the fracture pattern and are particularly useful for intra-articular fractures.
Böhler's angle measurement

Böhler's Angle[edit | edit source]

Böhler's angle is an important measurement used in the assessment of calcaneal fractures. It is formed by the intersection of two lines: one from the highest point of the anterior process to the highest point of the posterior articular facet, and the other from the highest point of the posterior articular facet to the highest point of the calcaneal tuberosity. A normal Böhler's angle ranges from 20 to 40 degrees. A decrease in this angle is indicative of a fracture.

Gissane's angle

Gissane's Angle[edit | edit source]

Gissane's angle, also known as the "critical angle," is another important measurement. It is formed by the downward and upward slopes of the calcaneal superior surface. A normal Gissane's angle is between 120 and 145 degrees.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment of calcaneal fractures depends on the type and severity of the fracture. Options include:

  • Conservative treatment: This may involve rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), along with immobilization in a cast or splint.
  • Surgical treatment: Surgery may be required for displaced intra-articular fractures. Techniques include open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF).

Rehabilitation[edit | edit source]

Rehabilitation is crucial for recovery and involves physical therapy to restore range of motion, strength, and function. Weight-bearing is typically restricted until the fracture has healed sufficiently.

Calcaneal fracture in neutral position

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

The prognosis for calcaneal fractures varies. Factors influencing recovery include the severity of the fracture, the quality of the reduction, and the presence of complications such as post-traumatic arthritis.

Related Pages[edit | edit source]

WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD