Marual Reduction for Calcaneal Fractures (Traction-Bending Manipulation)

Abstract

Manual reduction of intra-articular fracture of the calcaneus had been thought to be impossible and unrealistic. However, I developed a new method of manual reduction by utilizing the tension of the ligaments around the calcaneus. If was published in Clin. Orthop. (177, 104-111, 1983). The following is the manipulation procedure in brief. The patient is placed in a prone position with the knee at 90°. An assistant holds the thigh, and the surgeon compresses the affected heel with interlocked hands. The calcaneal tuberosity is repeatedly squeezed upward with strong traction and quick side to side bending.
This method is gaining wide acceptance in Japan and elsewhere. We believe that this method should be the first choice for treatment of calcaneal fractures.