Introduction
A calcaneus fracture, also known as a heel bone injury, can seriously impact your mobility and may need surgery to get you back on your feet. Dr. Nick Argerakis is a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon who specializes in helping patients get back to their normal, active lives. Book your appointment today by calling (732)-320-9173.
Key Takeaways:
- Calcaneus fractures, or heel bone fractures, often result from high-impact trauma like falls or car accidents.
- Surgery may be necessary to restore the alignment and function of the heel when the fracture causes significant misalignment.
- Heel fractures are often caused by accidents like falling from a height, being in a car crash, sports-related injuries, or even weakened bones due to conditions like osteoporosis.
- To diagnose a calcaneus fracture, doctors usually start with a physical exam and X-rays, and they might recommend a CT scan for a clearer picture of the injury.
- Surgery for a heel fracture typically involves either open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) or less invasive methods, depending on the injury.
- Recovery is lengthy, involving immobilization, physical therapy, and possible long-term stiffness or arthritis.
- Risks include infection, wound healing issues, and potential nerve damage, but consulting an experienced surgeon can improve outcomes.
What Is Calcaneus Fracture Surgery?
Your heel bone (calcaneus) is the foundation of your foot, supporting your body weight and helping you move. A fracture in this bone can be painful, limit mobility, and even change the shape of your foot. Calcaneus fracture surgery is performed to realign the bone, restore function, and help you walk comfortably again.
Doctors often recommend surgery when the fracture causes severe misalignment, joint damage, or breaks the bone into multiple pieces. If left untreated, it can lead to chronic pain, stiffness, arthritis, and long-term mobility issues.
What Causes Calcaneus Fractures?
Most calcaneus fractures happen due to high-impact injuries that crush or break the bone. Some common causes include:
- Falling from a height (e.g., ladders, scaffolding) and landing on your feet.
- Car accidents, where the foot gets pressed forcefully against the floorboard.
- Severe twisting of the ankle or foot, leading to fractures.
- Sports injuries involving excessive force on the heel.
- Osteoporosis, which weakens bones and makes them prone to fractures.
Types of Calcaneal Fractures
Heel fractures are classified based on how they affect nearby joints:
- Intra-articular fractures – These involve the subtalar joint and damage cartilage, often leading to arthritis and long-term stiffness. The more crushed the bone is, the worse the outcome.
- Extra-articular fractures – These occur outside the joints and typically heal with fewer complications. Surgery is rarely needed for these types.
What Are the Symptoms?
A fractured calcaneus can cause:
- Severe pain, swelling, and bruising in the heel.
- Changes in foot shape (wider, flatter, or deformed heel).
- Inability to put weight on the foot.
- Pain that worsens with movement.
- Open wounds (if the bone breaks through the skin).
How Is a Calcaneus Fracture Diagnosed?
Doctors use physical exams and imaging tests to confirm the fracture:
- X-rays – Show bone displacement.
- CT scans – Give a detailed 3D view of the fracture, joint involvement, and bone fragments.
- MRI (if needed) – Helps assess soft tissue and cartilage damage.
They may also check for risk factors like diabetes, smoking, or poor circulation, which can affect healing and increase complications.
Surgical Treatment Options
Surgery is performed to realign and stabilize the broken bone using plates and screws. The two main approaches are:
Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF)
- Traditional method with a large incision.
- The surgeon directly moves and secures bone fragments with plates and screws.
- Often used for complex, displaced fractures.
Closed Reduction with Percutaneous Fixation
- Minimally invasive, using X-ray guidance.
- Small incisions allow screws to be inserted through the skin.
- Suitable for less severe fractures.
- Reduces risks of infection and wound complications.
What Happens During Surgery?
- General anesthesia is used, with an added nerve block to manage pain.
- A tourniquet is applied to reduce bleeding.
- The surgeon repositions the broken bone and secures it with plates and screws.
- A cast or splint is applied after surgery for protection.
Possible Complications
While surgery is often successful, there are risks:
- Infection – More common in open fractures or those with poor circulation.
- Delayed wound healing – Especially in diabetics and smokers.
- Nerve damage – Can cause temporary numbness or tingling.
- Hardware failure – Plates or screws may loosen or break.
- Chronic pain and stiffness – Can result from arthritis or poor healing.
- Post-traumatic arthritis – If the joint is involved, arthritis may develop over time.
Conclusion
Calcaneus fracture surgery is a complex procedure aimed at restoring the heel’s alignment and function after a serious injury. While it offers significant benefits, the recovery process requires patience and dedication. Consulting with an experienced surgeon is essential to ensure you receive the best possible care and outcome.
If you’re dealing with a heel fracture or experiencing related symptoms, don’t wait to get help. Reach out to Dr. Nick Argerakis today to discuss your options and start your recovery journey.
