The management of soft-tissue problems associated with calcaneal fractures.

Abstract

Soft-tissue problems associated with fractures of the calcaneus are common and can present many pitfalls. A classification of soft-tissue problems has been devised to facilitate treatment: Type 1, closed fractures treated by open reduction and internal fixation with an inability to close the skin. Type 2, wound break down after open reduction. Type 3, open fractures of the calcaneus with traumatic large soft-tissue loss but with adequate bone stock. Type 4, traumatic loss of soft tissue and bone. Type 5, calcaneal osteomyelitis. Type 6, chronic unstable soft tissue over the calcaneus. There are various surgical options of skin graft, rotational flaps, and free-tissue transfers that best reconstruct each of these individual problems.