Abstract
Avulsion fractures are relatively rare. We have treated 5 cases of avulsion fracture of the calcaneus during the last 7 years. Of these 5 patients, 1 was male and 4 were female. Their mean age was 74 years. The fracture was caused by falls in 2 cases, falls from a height in 2 cases and another accident while walking in 1 case. In all cases, the fracture was classified as type. In according to the Boehler's classfication. One case was treated by wire fixation and the other cases were treated by internal fixation. Bone fusion was achieved in all cases.
Three cases were examined for osteoporosis based on the X-ray findings and bone mineral contents, using the diagnostic criteria of the Ministry of Health and Welfare. This assessment revealed ostetporosis in all three of these cases. Avulsion fractures of the calcaneus seem to be etiologically associated with the fragility of the bone due to osteoporosis and with the indirect extrinsic force created by a sudden sharp pull exereted by the triceps muscle of the calf.
