Calcaneus fractures are still a delicate point regarding the indication for osteosynthesis. Knowing the skin’s poor vascularisation of the back foot, the purpose of this study is to present the benefits of proper surgical options between an open and invasive osteosynthesis with anatomical reduction and internal fixation or minimally invasive approach preserving the quality of the soft parts.

66 interventions that targeted reduction and internal fixation of calcaneus fractures were performed between 2009-2012, in the Orthopaedic and Traumatology Department of Bucharest Emergency University Hospital. 29 cases underwent open reduction and internal fixation with plates and screws or Kirschner wires, and 37 cases underwent a minimally invasive reduction and Essex Lopresti osteosynthesis technique.

No patient who underwent a minimally invasive reduction had skin lesions, but showed pain due to osteoarthritis lesions that appeared in the subtalar joint. 4 of them, who underwent open reduction and internal fixation had postoperative wound infections and skin necrosis.