Utilization of minimally invasive burr for surgical correction of calcaneus fracture malunion: A case report describing a novel technique

INTRODUCTION: Calcaneus fractures pose a significant treatment challenge to orthopaedic surgeons. Nonoperative treatment frequently leads to malunion, persistent pain, and development of subtalar arthritis, while operative treatment increases the risk of surgical-related complications, such as surgical site infection, without demonstrating superior outcomes. PRESENTATION OF CASE: A 58-year-old male laborer presented three months after sustaining a left joint-depression type calcaneus fracture. He was initially treated nonoperatively but suffered from significant pain and dysfunction interfering with activities of daily living and inability to return to work. The patient was treated with a novel technique utilizing a minimally invasive burr to correct calcaneus fracture malunion. There were no reported post-operative complications, including infection or additional malunion, patient has returned to normal shoewear and his physically demanding career. DISCUSSION: This is one of few studies documenting utilization of a minimally invasive burr for surgical correction of calcaneus fracture malunion. Restoration of calcaneal height and hindfoot alignment were achieved without evidence of subtalar arthritis on postoperative radiographs. Minimally invasive surgical procedures, especially with smaller incisions, have been found to be just as effective as open, though with significantly fewer wound and nerve complications. CONCLUSION: Minimally invasive correction of calcaneus fracture malunion may be a viable option for surgical intervention, even in patients who are at higher risk of surgical complications such as infection. The indications for minimally invasive techniques are rapidly expanding and further studies are warranted to evaluate the use of minimally invasive techniques in foot and ankle surgery.