Evaluation of Long-Term Quality of Life Using the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) Questionnaire in Patients Treated by Minimally Invasive Reduction and Percutaneous Stabilization of Intra-Articular Calcaneal Fractures

BACKGROUND: Treatment of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures is controversial. Choosing the optimal surgical technique is very important for patient quality of life and activity. In this study, we asked the question: “What is the long-term quality of life of patients after intra-articular calcaneal fractures treated by minimally invasive reduction and percutaneous stabilization (MIRPS)?”. MATERIAL/METHODS: We included 51 patients – 45 males (88%) and 6 females (12%) – who underwent MIRPS of intra-articular calcaneal fractures. The males were ages 22–63 years, with a mean age of 46 years, while the females were aged 31–63, with a mean age of 47 years. The FAOS (Foot and Ankle Outcome Score) survey was used. RESULTS: Women’s FAOS scores were 72–95%, with a mean of 82%, and varied according to type of fracture, surgery method used, and comorbid fractures. Men’s FAOS scores were 50–95%, with a mean of 84%, and varied according to type of fracture, surgery method used, and comorbid fractures. CONCLUSIONS: According to set criteria regarding the FAOS scale, mainly good and very good results were observed in patients treated surgically for intra-articular calcaneus fractures using MIRPS. Westhues’ method scored a significantly higher foot rating than W-R (Westhues’-Rąpała method). Patients with TTF (tongue-type fracture) scored higher in the FAOS than patients treated with JDTF (joint depression-type fracture). In other cases, no significant differences were observed.