7
Calcaneal fractures
Foreword
A key role in the function of the foot is played by the calcaneus to which the weight of
the whole body is transmitted through the talus. With a powerful pull of the Achilles tendon
attached to it, the calcaneus acts as a part of the lever arm which sets the foot in motion. In
terms of morphology, it is one of the most complex bones of the human body. Anatomical
reconstruction of a broken calcaneus is one of the prerequisites for restoration of its impor-
tant functions.
Operative treatment of calcaneal fractures is both a big challenge and responsibility for
all orthopaedic surgeons. One false step in the surgery may have fatal consequences. Some-
times the surgery resembles solving a 3D puzzle where each piece must be accurately posi-
tioned, to achieve the correct shape. Understanding the principles of treatment of calcaneal
fractures requires long-term efforts, systematic study and ample practical experience.
There is no comprehensive publication in the Slovak literature that would deal with cal-
caneal fractures. The Czech literature contains two valuable monographs in this field, namely
Wondrák: Zlomeniny kosti patní (1964) and Stehlík and Štulík: Zlomeniny patní kosti (2005),
which, however, are rather out of date or provide only a one-sided picture of treatment of
calcaneal fractures.
The aim of this textbook was to offer surgeons the possibility to find an optimal method
of treatment of this injury, as well as to provide medical students with the essential details
concerning this issue.
The textbook presents a chronological overview covering anatomy, biomechanics, di-
agnostics, classifications, followed by clinical chapters on individual operative techniques of
treatment of calcaneal fractures. Each chapter reflects my personal clinical experience and
views I have acquired during my more than twenty-year career. Based on this experience I
have developed my own therapeutic concept which is presented in the conclusion.
I would like to express my gratitude to Professor H. Zwipp and his colleagues for all the
knowledge and experience they shared with me during my study stay at the Department of
Trauma and Reconstructive Surgery in Dresden, to Professor R. Sanders for valuable consul-
tations, and to Assoc. Professor J. Mentel, Head of the Anatomical Institute of the Faculty of
Medicine of the Slovak Medical University in Bratislava for providing me with the possibility
of obtaining anatomical specimens of the foot which I used in the textbook.
I also highly appreciate the support and assistance provided by my colleagues from the
Department of Trauma Surgery of the Slovak Medical University in Bratislava during indi-
vidual surgical procedures.
Last but not least, I would like to extend my sincere thanks for valuable comments to the
reviewers, and for preparation and publication of this textbook to copy-editor and the whole
Board of Editors of the Herba Publishing House.
