Open tongue-type calcaneal fracture treated with the external fixation bent wire technique

摘要

Traditionally, tongue-type calcaneal fractures have been treated using internal fixation. External fixation has been described to a lesser degree in the treatment of these injuries, though not in the setting of an open fracture. We present a case of an open tongue-type calcaneal fracture treated with external fixation, utilizing a tensioned wire affixed to the frame that imparts compression across the fracture site. With this method, maximal respect to the soft tissues is rendered, and soft tissue insult is minimized. This patient achieved timely soft tissue coalescence and fracture union, with a return to pre-injury activities. To our knowledge, this technique has not been previously described in the treatment of an open calcaneal fracture of the posterior tuberosity.