Intra-articular calcaneal fracture: closed reduction and balloon-assisted augmentation with calcium phosphate cement: a case report

INTRODUCTION: For decades, open reduction and internal fixation was the surgical treatment of choice for intra-articular calcaneal fractures, either with or without any augmentation. Delayed weight bearing and wound-related complications are still unresolved. Aiming at a minimally invasive therapy with accelerated mobilization, we applied closed reduction and balloon-assisted augmentation with calcium phosphate cement. CASE PRESENTATION: A 45-years-old Greek man with intra-articular calcaneal fracture was treated with closed reduction and balloon assisted augmentation with calcium phosphate cement. Follow-up was performed using the Maryland foot score, plain radiographs and multidirectional computerized tomography. Early full weight-bearing was performed at the end of the first week postoperatively. There was no need for secondary reconstructive procedures at the 2 year follow-up. The patient had minimal problems regarding the pain, subtalar motion and peroneal impingement. There was no significant further collapse of the subtalar calcaneal articular surface radiologically. CONCLUSION: The closed reduction and balloon assisted augmentation with calcium phosphate cement of intra-articular calcaneal fractures is a minimally invasive surgical procedure which led to early full weight bearing, good functional patient outcomes and a low complication rate.