Beak type calcaneus fracture

Case contributed by Calum Worsley
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

Fall down stairs. Unable to weight bear.

Patient Data

Age: 80 years
Gender: Female

Presentation

x-ray

Beak type fracture of the calcaneus, with superior retraction of the fracture fragment.

Post-op

x-ray

The fracture has been reduced and is fixed with a single screw. 

Case Discussion

Prompt recognition and reduction of this type of fracture is important, as the displaced fracture fragment can cause breakdown of the overlying skin. These will usually require open reduction and internal fixation, but less displaced fractures might be treated by closed reduction and equinus casting alone. 

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