Abstract

Orthoplastic Surgery & Orthopedic Care International Journal

Skin and Wound Complications after Calcaneal Fracture Fixation

Submission: February 25, 2018; Published: September 17, 2018

DOI: 10.31031/OOIJ.2018.01.000528

ISSN: 2578-0069
Volume2 Issue1

Abstract

Soft tissue complications are one of the most feared complications after a fracture of the calcaneus and its operative treatment. The incidence of wound complications vary in literature is up to 32%. The better understanding of the blood supply of the lateral aspect to the hind foot and together with the development of minimally invasive and percutaneous techniques helped to reduce such complications. While the literature discussed several patient related factors and surgery related factors that can contribute to skin and soft tissue complications, drawing a definitive conclusion about the importance of each of these factors is still difficult. Prevention of wound complications requires some experience from the surgeon to assess the different risk factors. In many cases, wound dehiscence can be managed by dressings but when infection is suspected, serial debridement with culture specific antibiotics are needed.

Keywords: Heel fracture; Lateral calcaneal artery; ORIF; Postoperative complication; Calcaneus

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