A Comparative Study of Displaced Intra-Articular Fractures of Calcaneum Treated by Extensile Lateral Versus Sinus Tarsi Approach

Introduction: Currently, Open Reduction Internal Fixation (ORIF) through the Extensile Lateral approach is considered the most widely accepted surgical procedure for displaced intra- articular calcaneal fracture. Minimally invasive reduction and fixation techniques via Sinus Tarsi approach (STA) have been developed in attempts to avoid potential complications associated with an extensile lateral approach, The purpose of this study is to evaluate functional and clinical outcome of displaced intra- articular fractures of calcaneum (DIACF) treated by using Extensile Lateral and Sinus Tarsi approaches. Materials and Methods: This study was carried out in GMERS Medical College and General Hospital Gotri Vadodara from August 2020 to May 2022, consisting of total 42 patients of intra-articular fractures of calcaneum. This was a comparative prospective study. All the patients were operated by surgeons experienced in both the approaches. Results: Majority were male patients with mean age of 37 years and had history of fall from height as mode of injury and had unilateral calcaneum fracture. 90.5% of patients for ST approach were operated within 4 days of admission as compared to 61.9% of patients for EL approach who were operated within 4-6 days of admission. Days of hospitalization were more for EL compared to ST group with significant difference (P