Comparing Two Surgical Approaches for Calcaneal Fractures
Author Information
Author(s): Fadle Amr A., Khalifa Ahmed A., Shehata Peter Mamdouh, EL-Adly Wael, Osman Ahmed Ekram
Primary Institution: Assiut University Hospital
Hypothesis
The sinus tarsi approach (STA) would result in a lower incidence of complications compared to the extensile lateral approach (ELA).
Conclusion
The sinus tarsi approach is superior to the extensile lateral approach in terms of fewer complications and better outcomes for calcaneal fractures.
Supporting Evidence
- Patients in the STA group had significantly fewer skin complications compared to the ELA group.
- The operative time was significantly shorter in the STA group.
- Time to fracture union was significantly shorter in the STA group.
- AOFAS scores were significantly better in the STA group at one year follow-up.
- Subtalar osteoarthritis was significantly higher in the ELA group.
Takeaway
Doctors compared two ways to fix broken heels and found that one way is better because it causes fewer problems and helps people heal faster.
Methodology
This was a randomized controlled trial comparing the outcomes of two surgical approaches for calcaneal fractures over a period from August 2020 to February 2023.
Potential Biases
The unblinded assessment of outcomes could have led to bias in reporting results.
Limitations
The study did not include a detailed cost analysis and had a relatively short follow-up period of 12 months.
Participant Demographics
Adult patients (≥18 years old) with Sanders type II and III calcaneal fractures.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p=0.000
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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