Effects of two different grafts on radiological and functional outcomes in the surgical treatment of calcaneus fractures

Aims: There are no standards regarding the use and selection of grafts for calcaneal fractures in the literature. This study aims to contribute to the literature by evaluating the effects of allografts and synthetic grafts on union and functional outcomes in the treatment of calcaneal fractures. Methods: Intraarticular calcaneal fractures treated surgically between 2011 and 2018 with a minimum follow-up of 2 years were included in the study. Patients were divided into two groups based on the type of graft used: synthetic grafts (G45S5 bioactive glass, Noraker®) or allografts. The Böhler angle and Gissane angle were measured radiologically. Functional outcomes were assessed using the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) Score and Maryland Foot Score at the final follow-up. Results: The average age in the synthetic graft group was 37.5±12.4 years, while that of the allograft group was 37.8±8.6 years. Radiographic evaluations of both groups showed some degree of collapse in the posterior facet of the talocalcaneal joint in both postoperative and 2-year follow-up images. No significant differences were found between the groups in terms of the AOFAS Score or Maryland Foot Score at the 2-year postoperative evaluation. Conclusion: There was no significant difference in functional and radiological outcomes between synthetic and allografts in the surgical treatment of calcaneal fractures.