Comparative Study of Conservative vs Surgical Management of Closed Calcaneal Fractures

Background: Calcaneal fractures are about 2-3% of all fractures, caused most by fall from height.More common in younger people.The treatment of calcaneal fracture is controversial.It may be surgical or conservative.A prospective study was conducted to compare operative and non-operative treatment for closed calcaneal fractures.To study the union of calcaneal fractures both clinically and radiological attaining correct Bohler's angle and union.Methods: Patients were routinely monitored for a year after being divided into two groups according to the type of treatment received (nonoperative and operative).The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scale and the Maryland Foot Score were used to evaluate the outcome measures.After a year, the patient's work-related results were recorded and contrasted with their pre-injury state.The study included 50 individuals with 50 calcaneal fractures.Twenty-five patients received conservative treatment and twenty-five underwent surgery.Results: Using two outcome score systems (AOFAS-mean 81.4,MFS mean 79.1), two of the 25 operated cases had excellent outcomes, twenty had acceptable outcomes, two had fair outcomes, and one had bad outcomes.Out of 25 cases managed nonoperatively, 1 case showed excellent outcome, 15 cases showed good outcome, 8 cases showed fair results and one case showed poor outcome with AOFAS score (AOFAS mean 74.6 and MFS mean 75.9).Conclusion: Compared to non-operated instances, operated cases had a better overall result.After a year, the results of surgical therapy for closed calcaneal fractures are favorable.Both treatment groups experienced complications.