This procedure is used to correct a severe fracture of the calcaneus (the heel bone). During this procedure, the surgeon stabilizes the bone with hardware to allow the bone to heal properly.
In preparation for the procedure, the patient is positioned and anesthesia is administered. The surgeon creates one or more incisions on the foot to access the fractured calcaneus.
The surgeon carefully realigns the fracture and inserts guide wires into the bone. Bone graft may be used to fill any spaces created by the fracture. Screws are then inserted to stabilize the fracture. The surgeon may choose from a variety of types of screws, along with rigid plates or wires.
When the procedure is complete, the incisions are closed and the foot is bandaged and placed in a splint. The patient will not be allowed to bear weight on the foot for about six to twelve weeks. A walking brace or shoe may be required until the fracture has fully healed.