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Purpose: The purpose of this study is to provide reference data regarding the morphology of vascular foramina (VF) of calcaneus among the Turkish population., Methods: This study was performed using 49 dry calcanei (26 right, 23 left). The number as well as the location of VF in relation of each surface of calcaneus were evaluated. The total length (TL), the distance between the most posterior point of calcaneus and the largest foramina on the medial (LMS), lateral (LLS), superior (LSS) and inferior (LIS) surfaces were measured and foraminal indexes of the largest foramina on the medial (FI1), lateral (FI2), superior (FI3) and inferior (FI4) surfaces were calculated., Results: The mean values of the TL, LMS, LLS, LSS, LIS were measured to be 74.83 ± 6.00 mm, 41.34 ± 4.78 mm, 31.18 ± 7.63 mm, 49.61 ± 13.40 mm, 39.25 ± 13.56 mm, respectively. The mean values of the FI1, FI2, FI3 and FI4 were calculated to be 55.40 ± 6.21%, 41.73 ± 10.06%, 66.01 ± 16.82%, 52.16 ± 16.80%, respectively. The maximum numbers of VF were detected most commonly on the lateral (28.29%) and medial (26.45%) surfaces, and least commonly on the anterior (0.98%) and posterior (8.29%) surfaces., Conclusions: VF were observed to be most commonly located on the lateral and medial surfaces, and least commonly on the anterior and posterior surfaces. Having adequate knowledge of the morphologic and morphometric properties of the VF is important in regarding the surgical approaches to the calcaneus towards the aim of reducing the vascular damage, especially in lateral approaches for orthopedists and of using differential sign from cystic lesions for radiologists., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag France SAS, part of Springer Nature.)

Background: Wound healing complications are a major challenge following the extended lateral approach in calcaneal fractures. Soft-tissue microcirculation plays an important role via the delivery of oxygen, nutrients, and the regulation of a local milieu. The aim of this clinical study was to examine the effect of intraoperative pneumatic tourniquet application on skin and subcutaneous microcirculation, and its impact on wound healing progression., Methods: Patients with calcaneal fractures were randomly assigned to two groups defined by a surgery conducted either with use or without use of a tourniquet. Blood flow (BF [AU]), tissue oxygen saturation (SO 2 [%]) and the relative amount of haemoglobin (rHb[AU]) were intraoperatively measured at two depths (2 and 8 mm) non-invasively by spectrophotometry (Micro-Lightguide O2C ® , LEA Medizintechnik, Giessen, Germany). Time points were before and after inflation of the pneumatic tourniquet and also at the end of surgery before deflation. A linear mixed model (LMM) was fitted for statistical analysis., Results: Thirty-four patients (3 women and 31 men) with 37 calcaneal fractures were included. In 22 of them, the surgery was conducted with a tourniquet and in the other 15 without its use. A significant decrease of microcirculation, characterized by decreases in blood flow (p = 0.011) and tissue oxygenation (p = 0.023) was measured in 8 mm depth after inflating the tourniquet. However, these changes did not influence the time of postoperative wound healing., Conclusion: The use of a pneumatic tourniquet reduces deep microcirculation without affecting postoperative wound healing. Trial registration The study was registered in www., Clinicaltrials: gov (NCT01264146)., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

The subtalar joint can be altered in its anatomy and biomechanical behavior. It is important to know how to assess the talar declination angle in order to assess the deformity at the subtalar joint. Consider a straight posterior approach to the subtalar joint and remain liberal in the use of z-shaped Achilles tendon lengthening. A structural bone graft should be used to elevate the talus. Positioning screws should be used to lock the construct., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Medial plantar artery perforator (MPAP) flap was proposed as proper option for finger pulp reconstruction. To provide the previously unavailable vessel information required for this small flap design, this study aimed to gather all necessary anatomy of MPA, MPAP, and their territories of blood supply to apply in clinical MPAP flap reconstruction minimizing perforator injury., Methods: Dissection of 30 Thai cadaveric feet for visualizing superficial branch of MPA and its perforators (MPAP) using acrylic dye cannulation were performed. Diameter, length, number of branches, course, distributing areas of these vessels, and also their areas of blood supply were recorded in relation to specified landmarks, eg, C-MTH line; medial calcaneal tuberosity to plantar side of the first metatarsal head and S point; emerging point of superficial branch of MPA from deep fasciae into subcutaneous layer., Results: Average diameter of MPA at its origin and total length are 1.63 ± 0.3 and 52.8 ± 16.1 mm, respectively. It provides 1-3 perforators, with an average size and length of 0.36 ± 0.11 and 23.2 ± 5.47 mm, respectively. Its distribution is mostly in the posteromedial quadrant within 50 and 30 mm from the midpoint of C-MTH line and the S point, respectively. The estimated perforator flap area is 2.5 cm × 1.5 cm and 4.5 cm × 2.5 cm for single and double perforators, respectively., Conclusions: MPAP flap was proved as another ideal option for finger pulp reconstruction. Its limitation is small size of perforators but this can be overcome by using MPA for microsurgical anastomosis instead., (© 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

Background: The purpose of this study was to quantitatively and qualitatively assess relative arterial contributions to the calcaneus., Method: Fourteen cadaveric ankle pairs were used. In each specimen, the posterior tibial artery, peroneal artery, and anterior tibial artery were cannulated and used for contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT). Quantitative MRI analysis of the pre- and postcontrast MRI scans facilitated assessment of relative arterial contributions. In addition, postcontrast MRIs were used to measure all perfused arterial entry points and scaled to a 3-dimensional calcaneus model. Contrast-enhanced CT imaging was assessed to further delineate the extraosseous arterial course. Two pairs underwent infusion of diluted BaSO 4 through a constant-pressure pump using extended infusion duration., Results: Quantitative MRI findings indicated the peroneal artery provided 52.6% of the calcaneal arterial supply, 31.6% from the posterior tibial artery, and 15.8% from the anterior tibial artery. The cortical entry points were found in fairly consistent patterns along calcaneal cortical surfaces. All specimens demonstrated intraosseous anastomoses between lateral and medial entry points at common locations., Conclusions: The peroneal artery was found to provide the largest calcaneal arterial contribution, followed by the posterior tibial artery and anterior tibial artery. A rich anastomotic arterial network was found supplying the calcaneus., Clinical Relevance: This study provides quantitative and qualitative findings of the relative arterial contribution of the calcaneus. This knowledge can help expand our understanding of calcaneal vascularization, demonstrate the vascular impact of calcaneal fracture and surgery, and facilitate future research on the arterial anatomy of the calcaneal soft tissue envelope.

Background: Clinical outcomes of consecutive use of the lateral calcaneal artery (LCA) as a recipient vessel for microsurgical reconstruction have not been reported. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and safety of the LCA as a recipient vessel for microsurgical foot reconstruction based on anatomical study of CT angiography and clinical results of using this vessel as the recipient., Methods: Anatomic study was performed using CT angiography of 61 lower extremities (31 patients). The emerging point, course, and diameter of the LCA were evaluated using 3-D reconstructed images. The LCA was used as the recipient artery in 17 consecutive patients with a mean age of 59 years (range: 23-77 years). Thoracodorsal artery perforator flap was used in most cases (16 of 17), and clinical outcomes were evaluated., Results: The LCA emerged 31.1 ± 9.8 mm proximal and 14.7 ± 5.0 mm posterior to the tip of the fibula and traversed 13.9 ± 2.7 mm posterior to the posterior margin of the lateral malleolus. The accompanying vein was used for venous outflow in five patients and the small saphenous vein was used in the remaining cases. Emergent re-operation was performed in one case due to venous thrombosis, and salvage was successful. All flaps except for one with partial flap necrosis completely survived. During a mean follow-up of 13 months, all but one of the patients were able to wear shoes and walk., Conclusions: The LCA may be safely used as a recipient vessel for microsurgical heel and lateral foot reconstruction., Level of Evidence: IV., (© 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

Retrograde intramedullary nailing of the hindfoot and ankle is an established procedure for salvage of severe foot and ankle deformity, arthritis, tumor, and instability. In the present study, retrograde hindfoot (tibiotalocalcaneal) arthrodesis nailing was performed using a standardized technique on 7 cadaver specimens by trained senior surgeons. The specimens were then dissected to determine the distance of the subcalcaneal structures at risk from the insertion point of the nail. The findings showed that the distance of the lateral neurovascular bundle from the edge of the nail was 6.5 (range 3.5 to 8, 95% confidence interval 5.9 to 7.1) mm. No neurovascular bundle was compromised, and all were within a previously described "safe window.", (Copyright © 2014 American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Historically, the lateral extensile approach for calcaneal fracture osteosynthesis has had relatively high rates of wound healing problems. The vascular territory (angiosome) of the lateral foot is now known to be dependent upon the lateral calcaneal branch of the peroneal artery (LCBP artery). We postulated that patency of the LCBP artery may have a profound positive impact on incisional wound healing for calcaneal open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF)., Methods: Ninety consecutive calcaneal fractures that met operative criteria were preoperatively evaluated for the presence of a Doppler signal in the LCBP artery and were followed for the development of wound healing problems., Results: Among these 90 fractures, 85 had a positive preoperative Doppler signal along the course of the LCBP artery (94%) and 5 had no Doppler signal (6%). All patients underwent ORIF via a lateral extensile approach. Overall, incisional wound healing problems occurred in 6 of 90 calcaneal incisions (6.5%). All 5 feet that exhibited an absent Doppler signal in the LCPB artery developed an incisional wound healing complication (5/6, approximately 83%): 2 large apical wounds and 3 major dehiscence/slough. However, among the 84 feet that possessed a positive preoperative Doppler signal in the LCBP artery, there was only 1 (1/84, approximately 1%) incisional wound healing problem (P < .0001, Fischer's exact test). Smokers with a positive Doppler signal in the LCBP artery did not develop a wound healing complication., Conclusions: This study suggests a strong link to low incisional wound healing complications for the lateral extensile approach to the calcaneus when a preoperative Doppler signal is present in the LCBP artery. We believe this simple examination should be routinely performed prior to calcaneal ORIF., Level of Evidence: Level III, comparative case series., (© The Author(s) 2014.)

Unlabelled: A case report of a 55-year-old woman who was being considered for bilateral below knee or Syme's amputations after gangrene at the level of both forefeet due to meningococcal septicaemia is described. An expectant approach for 6 months revealed that the tissues deep to the necrotic skin were viable and she was subsequently able to mobilize independently with normal footwear after bilateral toe amputations at the metatarsophalangeal joint levels. This case and a literature review suggest that the demarcation of healthy skin from necrotic skin (eschar) should not dictate the level of amputation in dry gangrene of the foot following meningococcal septicemia. Magnetic resonance imaging can overestimate the degree of muscle necrosis. Treatment should be individualized for each patient, but advice should include the option of prolonged conservative treatment to preserve limb length and function., Level of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level IV: Case study.

The definitive aim of a minor amputation is limited resection with retention of feet and legs resulting in a completely loadable extremity, in contrast to the lower leg stump. A shift in the amputation level in the sense of a shortening is inevitably accompanied by a reduction in the stand area, an increase in axial pressure and a disruption of muscle equilibrium in the extent of movement of the rest of the foot. This knowledge forms the central issue for further treatment of minor amputations in addition to the subtle treatment of the skin of the sole for coverage of a tension-free tip of the stump. Advantageous are longitudinal partial amputations of the forefoot and midfoot.

Background: Intraosseous vessels play an important role in regeneration of bone. However, the anatomy of the intraosseous vessels in humans has not been clearly delineated due to inadequate method of stereoscopically investigating vessels surrounded by bone tissues., Purpose: This study was to investigate the feasibility of simple CT scanning with barium sulphate perfusion to detect intraosseous vessels in humans., Methods: Two freshly obtained feet from a patient who required a double amputation were used in this study. One foot was perfused with barium sulfate and then scanned by CT (CT method). The other foot was processed using vascular corrosion casting (traditional method). Intraosseous vessels in both specimens were compared., Results: The anatomical distributions of the calcaneal intraosseous vessels were similar as assessed by the CT and traditional methods. However, in comparison to traditional method, the CT method allows the preservation of the surrounding bone tissue, which is important for analyzing the relationship between intraosseous vessels and the surrounding bone structures, and the visualization of a special vascular structure called the sinusoid cluster., Conclusion: Simple CT scanning with barium sulfate perfusion may be a practical and adequate method for stereoscopically detecting the morphology and distribution of the intraosseous vessels.

Unlabelled: Successful management of chronic calcaneal osteomyelitis presents a major challenge for the plastic and reconstructive surgeon, especially in cases involving soft-tissue defects. This article describes a modified free muscle transfer technique to effectively eradicate chronic and persistent calcaneal osteomyelitis., Methods: Between February 2009 and September 2009, 3 male patients with persistent calcaneal osteomyelitis were treated in our clinic. All 3 had purulent drainage for a minimum of 6 months and a maximum of 23 years. Multiple surgical debridements and vacuum-assisted closure had been used in the past, but the infection remained. We used a therapeutic protocol of repeated and radical surgical debridement with removal of nearly all cancellous bone and preservation of the cortical shell of the calcaneus. After the final debridement, the bone cavity was plugged by a free gracilis muscle flap from the contralateral side. A meshed split thickness skin graft was applied. Culture-specific antibiotics were administered for 2 weeks., Results: All flaps healed uneventfully except for a minor hematoma that was treated conservatively. All 3 patients were able to return to ambulatory status with regular foot apparel. At last follow-up evaluation, they had no clinical, laboratory, or radiologic signs of osteomyelitis., Conclusion: This modified free muscle transfer technique seems to be successful in managing chronic and persistent calcaneal osteomyelitis. Infected and healthy cancellous bone of the calcaneus is removed to eradicate all possible foci that maintain inflammation. The resulting bony defect after the aggressive surgical debridement is sufficiently filled with a well-vascularized muscle that ensures a good wound healing. We consider this method to be a promising treatment option, which needs to be supported by further cases.

Background: Foot ulcerations resulting in amputation are one of the most devastating consequences of diabetes mellitus and peripheral arterial disease. In foot amputations, Boyd amputation has been even less accepted than Syme amputation due to its dependence on calcaneotibial osseous union in adults., Methods: Fifteen Boyd amputations were performed for 14 adults. The indications for amputation were diabetic ulceration of the foot in eight patients, ischemic disease of the lower extremity in four and salvage of the deformed foot due to peripheral neuropathy in one patient. One patient with scleroderma had bilateral amputations due to digital ischemic necrosis., Results: Complete wound healing was documented in seven feet of six patients. Further revisions to a more proximal amputation level were required in seven patients., Conclusion: Despite the high failure rate, we believe Boyd amputation is still a good option in some patients to try to preserve length.

A prospective investigation of the effects on the medial and lateral neurovascular structures of the rearfoot after percutaneous posterior calcaneal displacement osteotomy was performed using 20 below the knee fresh frozen cadaver specimens. This anatomic study aimed to examine the medial and lateral neurovascular structures to determine whether they were jeopardized during execution of the osteotomy. After completion of the osteotomy, the medial plantar, lateral plantar, medial calcaneal, sural, and posterior tibial neurovascular structures, along with their respective branches, were inspected for iatrogenic injury. Our findings demonstrated that the percutaneous, subperiosteal osteotomy minimized trauma to the local soft tissue envelope and protected the adjacent neurovascular structures. Because no iatrogenic injury was observed in the cadaveric specimens, we postulated that percutaneous calcaneal displacement osteotomy is a safe, predictable, and advantageous alternative compared with open techniques for osteotomy and could result in reduced postoperative complications. The results of this investigation remain to be confirmed in the clinical setting., (Copyright © 2011 American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

In the microsurgical reconstruction of the foot, anterior tibial artery-dorsalis pedis artery and posterior tibial artery-plantar artery are mainly used as recipient arterial pedicles. These arteries are the main sources for foot circulation and the preservation of these arterial circulations is very important. Although the end-to-side technique or the flow-through technique is selected for the microsurgical anastomosis, the possibility of injury to the circulation of these main arteries exists. We showed the availability of this artery with an angiographic injection study in five fresh cadavers as a reliable recipient artery. We also used the lateral calcaneal artery as a recipient pedicle in foot reconstruction without sacrificing the main circulation in two clinical cases. The diameters at the level of the calcaneus were 1.3 mm and 1.5 mm, respectively., (Copyright © 2009. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

The calcaneus has a rich vascular supply; therefore, avascular necrosis of the calcaneus is extremely rare. We report the first case of bone infarct of the calcaneus 9 months after a fracture. We also review the literature on osteonecrosis of the calcaneus to offer potential mechanisms for bone infarction in the calcaneus after a fracture.

The treatment of displaced calcaneal fractures remains controversial. Early surgical management to restore articular congruence and the structural function of the calcaneus is widely accepted as the best way to avoid the negative consequences of malunion. Concerns remain however regarding the best approach for reducing and maintaining reduction of these complex fractures, while minimizing the risk of surgical complications. The potential for serious wound complications is a major concern, particularly breakdown of the lateral calcaneal skin flap with the extensile lateral approach. Various approaches have been developed to try and balance the need for direct reduction of the articular surface while minimizing the potential for wound complications. Palmer originally described a laterally based approach through the sinus tarsi for direct visualization of the articular surface for reduction. He and others have found this approach to be useful and reasonably safe. At times, however, it may be necessary to extend the limits of a small incision over the sinus tarsi to treat adjacent fractures or to aid reduction in more complex fractures. In addition, a limited sinus tarsi incision without elevation of the lateral calcaneal skin flap does not allow for plate fixation, a notable advantage of the extensile lateral approach, particularly in gaining reduction of the body of the calcaneus. The authors have used an extended sinus tarsi approach to include placement of plate percutaneously beneath the lateral calcaneal skin flap through a sinus tarsi approach, and to treat adjacent fractures and soft tissue injuries. A clinical series of 13 patients (including 7 chronic smokers and 1 with diabetes and vascular disease) with closed displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures (Sanders types II and III) were treated by open reduction and internal fixation via this approach. Adjacent fractures were treated through the same incision. Two patients developed wound complications. No wound complications occurred in smokers. The vascular anatomy of the lateral calcaneal artery related to this approach was also studied with 16 cadaver legs. The lateral calcaneal artery (LCA) passed within 2 mm of the superior border of floor of the Superior Peroneal Retinaculum (SPR) at the midline of the peroneal sheath. By avoiding dissection through the deep portion of the SPR, the lateral calcaneal artery can be protected, thus preserving the blood supply to the lateral calcaneal skin flap.

Chronic tendinopathy injuries to the canine common calcaneal tendon are relatively common in large breed dogs and typically affect the distal portion of the tendon. In humans, poor blood supply, biomechanical faults, poor training methods and fluoroquinolone administration have all been linked with the development of Achilles tendinopathy. The most common sites for Achilles tendinopathy in humans seem to correspond with areas of poor blood supply within the tendon. The aim of this study was to evaluate the blood supply of the canine common calcaneal (Achilles) tendon to determine if variations occur along the tendon. The null hypothesis was that there would be no difference in the microvascular blood supply at varying points along the tendon. Paired pelvic limbs were collected from 12 large breed dog cadavers. A 50% barium sulphate and 50% saline solution was infused into the femoral artery of one limb from each dog and radiographs were taken to outline the blood supply to the common calcaneal tendon. Indian ink was infused into the contralateral limb. The common calcaneal tendon was removed, fixed and sectioned at 1 cm intervals, from calcaneal insertion to musculotendinous junction. The ink-filled arteries and arterioles in each section were counted. Radiographs revealed fine branches from the caudal saphenous artery entering the mid-body of the tendon along its cranial border. The musculotendinous junction had additional branches from the gastrocnemius muscles. Distally, vessels radiated proximally from the calcaneus 2 to 3 cm into the tendon. Mean total vessel counts at the insertion (138.54 +/- SD 31.06) were significantly higher than all other sections (p <0.001). The mid-body had significantly lower total vessel counts. When the cross sectional area of the tendon was taken into account, only the insertion had a significantly higher mean vessel count/cm2 than the mid-body of the tendon. There were no other significant differences in mean vessel count/cm2. Areas of poorer blood supply did not correspond with the most commonly reported site for chronic common calcanean tendinopathies, suggesting that inherent poor blood supply at the site of injury may not play a role in the pathogenesis. Atraumatic handling and minimal manipulation should be used during the surgical approach and debridement to preserve the remaining blood supply in ruptured tendons.

The proximity of the lateral calcaneal artery (LCA) to surgical incisions applied to the lateral hindfoot makes it vulnerable to iatrogenic injury and subsequent postoperative skin necrosis. This study aimed to investigate the course of the LCA and to define anatomical points that can be used by surgeons during lateral approaches to the calcaneus. Thirteen leg-ankle-foot specimens were dissected and the superficial course of the LCA was outlined by three anatomic points: (a) tip of lateral malleolus, (b) the point where it pierces the deep fascia, and (c) the point where it crosses the line connecting the lateral malleolus with the insertion of Achilles tendon. Fifteen healthy volunteers were investigated by color Doppler ultrasound where the diameter and depth of LCA were measured. The LCA pierced the deep fascia at a maximum height of 4.5 cm (mean 3.78) above the midpoint of a line extending from the lateral malleolus to the insertion of Achilles tendon. It crossed the previous line at a maximum distance of 3 cm (mean 2.6) posterior to lateral malleolus. At this point, its mean diameter was 1.75 mm on the right and 1.73 mm on the left sides, while its mean depth was 7.73 mm on the right and 8.0 mm on the left sides. A dangerous triangle that contained the superficial course of the artery was mapped out in the lower lateral part of the leg. This triangle should be considered during surgical approaches applied to the lateral hindfoot to avoid damage of the LCA., ((c) 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.)

The purpose of the present study was to analyze our long-term results of lateral calcaneal artery flap transfer for hindfoot reconstruction. A total of four patients (average age, 48 years) underwent lateral calcaneal artery flap transfer. The etiologies were heat injury of the lateral malleolus in one patient and skin necrosis over the Achilles tendon attachment site in three patients due to displaced calcaneal fracture, pyogenic tendinitis of the Achilles tendon, and vascular insufficiency of the wound after Achilles tendon surgery in a patient with Werner syndrome, respectively. The defect sizes ranged from 2 x 2 cm to 4 x 4 cm, and all of the patients had bone or tendon exposure. All of the flaps survived completely without any problems. The donor sites were closed by full-thickness skin grafts. Postoperative complications included delayed wound healing in one patient and transient restriction of ankle motion in another patient. No painful neuroma of the sural nerve was recorded. No recurrence of ulcers at the shoe-contacting area of the flaps was noted. Therefore, lateral calcaneal artery flap transfer is useful for reconstruction of skin and soft tissue defects with bone or tendon exposure over the calcaneus or lateral malleolus.

The aim of the study was to document soft tissue vascularization of the lateral heel on cadavers and, therefore, to indirectly demonstrate the importance to perform perfectly precise incisions, in order to prevent ischemic complications. Sections of 8 human lower limb cadavers were performed in cooperation with the Anatomical Institute of the MU Medical Faculty in Brno, according to current common standards for anatomical preparations. In successive steps, cutaneous and subcutanous covers of the lateral ankle, malleolar and heel regions were preparated. Final branches of the individual arteries were followed and the authors aimed to demonstrate their vascular arcade consisting of anastomosis of the lateral calcaneal artery--LCA (a branch of a. peronea)--which is a clinical term for rami calcaneares laterales, ventrolateral tarsal arteries--LTA (a branch of a. dorsalis pedis) and lateral malleolar artery branching off medially--LMA (a branch of a. tibialis ant.). The course of the arteries and their location is related to a reference point--a lateral tip of the lateral ankle. The investigators found out that all three arteries, as well as the arterial arch, had standard courses. The course of the arch defines the outline of the lateral extensive incision during osteosynthesis in calcaneal fractures, which lies fairly close to the lateral outline of this vascular arcade. Incorrect performance of the incision results, invitably, in serious ischemic complications. Open reduction and internal fixation of intraarticular calcaneal fractures has become a standard surgical method. Correct indication, good timing and saving open reduction, internal fixation using arthroscopy and early mobilization are the prerequisites to prevent further postoperative complications and to achieve complete healing of the fracture. Considering the demandingness of these fractures treatment and their rare incidence, their management should be centred in specialized traumatological clinics.

Pseudocysts, lipomas, infarcts and simple cysts of the calcaneus are described as different entities in the medical literature. However, some evolutions or associations may suggest a relationship which is not yet demonstrated in all cases. The aim of this article is to describe each lesion and emphasize their different characteristics that may suggest a relationship between them.

Successful management of open talar and calcaneal injuries of the hindfoot is a formidable orthopaedic challenge. The soft-tissue disruption associated with these high-energy traumatic injuries adds to treatment complexity. Extensive fracture comminution and cartilage damage are often present with calcaneal fracture. Osteonecrosis is commonly associated with talar injury. Treatment may be divided into acute and reconstructive phases. Successful outcome is dependent on several variables--accurate fracture reduction, timing of intervention, prevention of infection, and meticulous soft-tissue handling. Anatomic fracture or joint reconstruction may not be possible. Joint stiffness and posttraumatic arthritis are common and may be debilitating. Complications, such as infection and osteonecrosis, also can be devastating. Long-term outcomes are frequently unsatisfactory. Chronic ambulatory dysfunction and persistent neurogenic pain may result despite appropriate management. With severe complex open fractures and extended soft-tissue injury, limb amputation may be the best treatment option.

Background: Operative treatment of large osteochondral lesions of the talus is difficult because the blood supply is poor in the talar dome. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the results of a vascularized bone graft transfer from the medial calcaneus to the large osteochondral lesion., Methods: Four ankles in four patients with medial osteochondral lesions were treated through a medial transmalleolar approach. Vascularized bone graft was harvested from the medial calcaneus using the calcaneal branch of the posterior tibial artery and was placed through a fenestration of the medial aspect of the talar dome. The mean duration of postoperative followup was 34 (range 24 to 48) months. Clinical and radiographic evaluations were made before surgery and at final followup., Results: According to the AOFAS ankle-hindfoot scale, mean pain and function scores improved from 20 to 33 points and 30 to 43 points, respectively. The mean total score improved from 60 to 83 points. Plain radiography at followup showed slight osteosclerosis in all patients, but joint space narrowing was not seen in any patient. Cysts seen preoperatively on MRI or CT resolved after 12 months postoperatively, and MRI or CT did not reveal any findings indicative of osteonecrosis., Conclusions: Clinical and radiographic results were satisfactory. Vascularized bone grafts harvested from the calcaneus were successful for the treatment of large osteochondral lesions of the medial talus.

Objective: Our objective was to prove through cadaveric correlation that a frequently seen focus of MRI signal in the calcaneus is benign., Conclusion: A characteristic focus of signal (increased T2, decreased T1) in the calcaneus near the attachment of the cervical and interosseous ligaments is a common, benign finding frequently seen on MRI of the foot and ankle.

The purpose of this study was first to determine the normal blood supply of the heel entheses with cadaver injection, and second, to identify by means of ultrasound (US) this blood supply in healthy volunteers before and after the intravenous injection of a US contrast agent (SonoVue). Twenty cadaver lower limbs were cut into sagittal, coronal, or axial sections after the injection of a red-colored gelatin solution. Ten anatomical samples were selected for histology. Then 10 healthy volunteers were enrolled in a contrast-enhanced ultrasonography study (CUS). Calcaneal tendon and plantar aponeurosis entheses were studied first without any contrast-agent (B-mode, power Doppler). A single dose (2.4 ml) of the contrast agent was then administered for studying each enthesis of the right foot. The operators had to look for blood flow within the entheses and in the adjacent soft tissues. Anastomotic transverse branches were seen macroscopically at the back of the calcaneal tendon, giving some capillaries penetrating the enthesis. None of these vessels could be seen with CUS. In contrast, a high-density vascular network could be detected in Kager's triangle with CUS. No blood vessel could be seen within the plantar aponeurosis enthesis, either macroscopically or microscopically. No evidence of entheseal vascularization was found with any contrast-enhanced imaging technique. Inferior branches of the lateral plantar artery were seen on coronal and sagittal sections of the hindfoot, and could be detected with CUS. These arterioles were running toward the anterior aspect of the calcaneal tuberosity, near the plantar aponeurosis insertion. In conclusion, no vascularization was detected with CUS at the cortical bone insertion of normal heel entheses. However, some vascularization could be seen in the immediate vicinity of heel entheses. The latter feature has to be kept in mind, as it may represent a pitfall for the diagnosis of early inflammatory changes in patients, especially those with seronegative spondylarthropathies.

To investigate the possibility of use of the calcaneal branches of the posterior tibial artery as the pedicle for the vascularized bone graft to the talus, a detailed anatomical study was carried out on 30 fresh cadaver feet. Although there are several branches from the posterior tibial artery to the calcaneus, the largest posterior branch was defined as the main calcaneal branch. We recognized frequently a large branch nourishing the superior part of the calcaneus and named it the superior calcaneal branch. Twenty feet had the superior calcaneal branches. Pedicled bone grafts using the superior calcaneal branch to the postero-medial portion of the talar body were possible in 18 of 20 feet. Pedicled bone grafts using the main calcaneal branches were possible in 9 of 12 feet in which the superior calcaneal branches were not available. Finally, vascularized bone grafts were judged to be feasible in 27 feet (90%)., (Copyright 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc.)

Despite the success in clinical application, the exact mechanism of shock wave therapy remains unknown. We hypothesized that shock wave therapy induces the ingrowth of neovascularization and improves blood supply to the tissues. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of shock wave therapy on neovascularization at the tendon-bone junction. Fifty New Zealand white rabbits with body weight ranging from 2.5 to 3.5 kg were used in this study. The right limb (the study side) received shock wave therapy to the Achilles tendon near the insertion to bone. The left limb (the control side) received no shock wave therapy. Biopsies of the tendon-bone junction were performed in 0, 1, 4, 8 and 12 weeks. The number of neo-vessels was examined microscopically with hematoxylin-eosin stain. Neovascularization was confirmed by the angiogenic markers including vessel endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) expressions and endothelial cell proliferation determined by proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) expression examined microscopically with immunohistochemical stains. The results showed that shock wave therapy produced a significantly higher number of neo-vessels and angiogenesis-related markers including eNOS, VEGF and PCNA than the control without shock wave treatment. The eNOS and VEGF began to rise in as early as one week and remained high for 8 weeks, then declined at 12 weeks; whereas the increases of PCNA and neo-vessels began at 4 weeks and persisted for 12 weeks. In conclusion, shock wave therapy induces the ingrowth of neovascularization associated with early release of angiogenesis-related markers at the Achilles tendon-bone junction in rabbits. The neovascularization may play a role to improve blood supply and tissue regeneration at the tendon-bone junction.

Medial displacement osteotomy of the calcaneous is commonly performed for stage II posterior tibial tendon insufficiency in an effort to improve the valgus deformity of the hindfoot. We performed an anatomic study examining the medial neurovascular anatomy and its relation to the osteotomy in an attempt to determine which structures may be at risk during the procedure. Calcaneal osteotomies were performed through a lateral approach on 22 fresh-frozen cadaver below-knee specimens. Dissection was then performed medially to identify the Medial Plantar Nerve (MPN), the Lateral Plantar Nerve (LPN), the Posterior Tibial Artery (PTA), and their respective branches. Measurements determined either 1) where the structure crossed the osteotomy or 2) if the structure did not cross, the closest perpendicular distance from the osteotomy and at which point along its length this occurred. Perpendicular distances were recorded in millimeters and position along the osteotomy as a percentage of the total length from the posterosuperior aspect. An average of four neurovascular structures crossed each osteotomy site (range 2 to 6), most of which were branches of the LPN or the PTA. The MPN did not cross in any of the specimens studied, the LPN crossed in one specimen, and the PTA crossed in two specimens. The MPN distributed no crossing branches. The calcaneal sensory branch of the LPN was identified and crossed in 86% of the cadavers at 19% (+/- 15%) along the osteotomy length. A more distal second branch of the LPN (Baxter's nerve) was identified and crossed in 95% of the specimens at 61% (+/ 20%) along the osteotomy length. A third crossing branch existed in one specimen. Each PTA distributed from zero to three branches which variably crossed the osteotomy at a point from 2% to 100% along its length. The PTA bifurcated in 77% of the specimens at 49% (+/- 9%) along the osteotomy length. A consistent finding in every specimen was the presence of two veins accompanying the PTA with one on either side. A number of medial neurovascular structures may be at risk when perfoming a calcaneal osteotomy through a lateral approach. A minimum of two structures crossed the osteotomy site at variable positions in this study, although most of these structures represented branches off of the LPN or the PTA, with the LPN and the PTA themselves crossing only infrequently. The authors recommend that the completion of the osteotomy through the medial calcaneal cortex be performed in a carefully controlled manner to reduce the risk of post-operative complications including pain, numbness, and hematoma formation.

FCS is a recognized clinical entity that has few consistent clinical signs except tense swelling. A high degree of clinical suspicion is necessary to provide appropriate treatment. Invasive direct pressure monitoring is needed to diagnose FCS. High-energy injuries are known to cause FCS, but individual risk factors, such as prolonged venous occlusion and blood dyscrasias, are causative factors.

To establish the applied anatomy of the V-shaped fibular osteomyocutaneous flap pedicled on the peroneal vessels, cadaver dissections were made in 60 lower limbs and 40 calcanei were examined to sum up the features of calcaneal biomechanics on the stability of the foot and the blood supply of the fibular osteomyocutaneous flap. There were four anastomoses and large communicating branches between the lower segment of the peroneal artery and the anterior and posterior tibial arteries. The flap was well supplied by a retrograde circulation through these anastomoses. A suitable length of pedicle was 20 cm. In the sagittal section of the calcaneus passing through the center of the articular surface for the cuboid bone, the arrangement of the trabeculae formed a triangular zone. The V-shaped flap corresponds nicely with the calculated lines of stress evoked by the weight of the body. The procedure may provide a new method for hindfoot reconstruction. This flap meets the criteria outlined for composite tissue reconstruction of defects of the extremities and biomechanics of the hindfoot, especially for calcaneal and cuboid defects.

This study was conducted to analyze extraosseous and intraosseous vascularization of the os calcaneum and to elucidate possible clinical manifestations. The arteries of 13 lower leg and foot specimens of human cadavers were injected with a polymer and subjected to maceration or were embedded in plastic. The examination revealed that 45% of the bone is vascularized via medial arteries and 45% via lateral arteries, whereas the remaining 10% is supplied by the sinus tarsi artery. From the medial side, two or three vessels branch off the posterior tibial artery, penetrate the calcaneus below the sustentaculum, and supply the medial part of the posterior joint. The lateral calcaneal artery normally is a branch from the posterior tibial artery. In two of 13 specimens, this lateral supply comes from the peroneal artery. The medial and lateral intraosseous arterial supply for the calcaneus is equal. Inside the bone there is a water-shed zone where the medial and lateral arterial supply meet in the midline. Only 10% of the blood flow is supplied by vessels in the sinus tarsi. Clinically, interruption of the lateral calcaneal artery during the conventional lateral surgical approach for a calcaneus fracture may result in ischemic bone necrosis. The lateral calcaneal artery could supply a local microvascular flap to cover soft tissue defects of the heel. A compartment syndrome after a calcaneus fracture may be caused by bleeding from the medial calcaneal arteries into the quadratus plantae compartment.

Objective: To describe the arterial blood supply of the subcutaneous tissues of the lateral hindfoot and define the relationships between these arteries and the lateral extensile incision used for open reduction and internal fixation of calcaneal fractures., Design: Human cadaveric lower extremity specimens, doubly injected with India ink and latex, were used to demonstrate the location of the arteries of the subcutaneous tissues of the lateral hindfoot., Setting: Anatomy laboratory., Patients/participants: Twenty-four randomly obtained, cadaveric elderly lower extremity specimens., Intervention: India ink and then latex were injected into the superficial femoral artery at the level of the inguinal crease after cleansing of the arterial system. Transtibial amputation specimens were manually debrided of the skin and chemically debrided of subcutaneous tissues with sodium hypochlorite to demonstrate the arterial supply to the soft tissues of the lateral hindfoot. MEAN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS: The location of the three major arteries was determined relative to the lateral malleolus. The proximity of these vessels to the typical extensile lateral incision was determined radiographically with vascular clips applied along each artery and skin staples placed along the path of the typical skin incision., Results: Three arteries, the lateral calcaneal artery, the lateral malleolar artery, and the lateral tarsal artery, were consistently found along the lateral aspect of the hindfoot. The lateral calcaneal artery appeared to be responsible for the majority of the blood supply to the corner of the flap and, because of its proximity to the vertical portion of the typical incision, it appeared most likely to be injured from inaccurate placement of the incision., Conclusions: The development of wound complications following open reduction and internal fixation of the calcaneus is multifactorial. Disruption of the blood supply to the surgically created flap may play a larger role in the development of wound complications than previously thought. An understanding of the local vascular anatomy may decrease the rate of wound complications during the operative treatment of intraarticular calcaneal fractures.

Objective: Bone infarction (BI) of the calcaneus is an uncommon entity which has received little mention in the recent literature. In this paper, we review the MR images of six calcanei with BI, which demonstrate a pattern of presentation that may explain the etiology of BI at this unusual location., Design: A retrospective review was performed of the transcribed reports of the foot or ankle MR examinations at our institution. MR images of examinations with any marrow signal abnormality were reviewed for presence of BI and its distribution., Patients: Based on MRI criteria, four patients had calcaneal BI (none biopsy proven); they ranged in age from 37 to 51 years old. Two patients were diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus, one with fibrositis, and another with polymyositis. All were treated with corticosteroids., Results: Six calcanei (in four patients) contained a region of calcaneal BI. In five of the six, the lesions were entirely or predominantly located in the posterior half of the calcaneus., Conclusion: Two theories are proposed which may explain why BI predominantly occurs in the posterior half of the calcaneus. First, the convergence of the recurrent intraosseous calcaneal vessels may occasionally produce the equivalent of a single dominant vessel that is more prone to vascular accidents. Secondly the region between the recurrent and the epiphyseal vessels may act as a watershed zone, increasing its susceptibility to ischemia.

An anatomic study of the lateral extraosseous and intraosseous arterial supply of the calcaneus and the lateral soft tissue was carried out on 10 fresh lower adult cadaver legs using different anatomic and radiologic procedures (plastination, modified Spalteholz clearing technique, digital subtraction and rotational angiography and computed tomographic angiography). Consistent patterns of extraosseous and intraosseous lateral calcaneal vascular anatomy were demonstrated. The lateral calcaneal artery is a branch of the anterior tibial artery which crosses over the calcaneal tuberosity and forms a large lateral arch with the lateral tarsal artery which is a branch of the dorsalis pedis artery. The intraosseous circulation is supplied laterally by the lateral calcanear artery, medially via the short branches of the lateral plantar artery. Comparing magnet resonance images after fresh calcaneal fractures the lateral calcanear artery may be interrupted by the impacted lateral bulge, by the conventional lateral surgical approach, or by applying a lateral osteosynthesis plate. This may cause avascular bone necrosis. Furthermore the lateral calcanear artery can clinically serve as a vascular pedicle for a local rotational skin flap to cover soft tissue defects of the heel.

Objective: Definition of the nature of calcaneal "erosions" in sickle cell anemia., Methods: Skeletons of individuals demonstrated to have had sickle cell anemia were examined for the presence of calcaneal surface discontinuity., Results: Calcaneal and articular surface osseous microinfarction were identified macroscopically and confirmed radiologically by CT., Conclusions: This appears to be the first macroscopic identification of calcaneal and articular surface osseous microinfarction in sickle cell anemia and explains the osseous pathology that appears so unique to sickle cell anemia.

Skin and soft tissue necrosis of the heel are the main problems following open reposition and fixation of calcaneal fractures. In order to demonstrate how the classic approaches harm the supplying vessels, the classic medial, lateral, enlarged lateral and bilateral approaches have been simulated in ten lower limbs prepared by arterial latex injection. Bases on anatomic literature and on these findings, we have proposed two modified approaches that minimize damage to the vessels of the adjacent soft tissues yet allow exact reposition of the fractures.

This study investigates the vascularization of the Achilles tendon in 32 lower limbs of human neonates by injecting colored latex with subsequent microdissection. Because of its biomechanical significance (achilleo-calcaneal-plantar system) and the lack of descriptions in the literature, we analyzed the vascularization of the attachment area in the calcaneus, describing the achilleo-calcaneal vascular network, which is always well supplied in contrast to other tendinous areas.

This study tests the hypothesis that reduced blood flow to the lower extremities may affect bone remodeling, resulting in a decrease in bone mineral density (BMD). BMD was measured in the axial and appendicular skeleton of 1292 elderly women (mean age, 71 years) enrolled in the Study of Osteoporotic Fractures. The ratio of the posterior tibial and brachial systolic blood pressures, the ankle/arm index, was used as a measure of blood flow to the legs. In the cross-sectional analysis, this index was positively correlated with BMD at the radius, calcaneus, and hip, but not at the spine. A decrease in the index of 2 standard deviations (SD) (as might occur in patients with moderate arterial disease) was associated with a decrease of 3.7% (95% CI, 1.7%, 5.8%) in hip BMD. The effect size at the hip decreased from 3.7 to 1.8% (and was not statistically significant) when adjustment was made for smoking and/or body mass index (BMI). In the prospective analysis, the rate of bone loss at the hip and calcaneus was greater (p < 0.05) among women whose annual decrease in ankle/arm index was more than 1 SD greater than the mean decrease. This increase was independent of estrogen use, smoking, BMI, pattern of fat distribution, history of diabetes, exercise, and ability to walk. The results from this prospective community-based study provide the first evidence that among relatively healthy older women decreased vascular flow in the lower extremities may be associated with an increased rate of bone loss at the hip and calcaneus.

The vascular anatomy of the distal calf and proximal foot was studied in 16 preparations obtained by corrosion. Arterial anastomoses between the different vessels are frequently observed and were also detected by digital subtraction arteriography in 14 patients with peripheral arterial occlusive disease. The comparison between anatomy and arteriography revealed that performed anastomoses in the malleolar and proximal foot region are important for compensating crural arterial occlusions. The Ramus communicans posterior, the Ramus perforans of the fibular artery and the Rete calcaneare play an important role. Whereas in other vascular territories collaterals dominate for compensation of occlusions performed anastomoses are of crucial importance at the malleolus.

In our cadaver dissection, the connection between the lateral calcaneal artery, the lateral tarsal artery, and the branch of the lateral plantar artery was corroborated, indicating possible reverse blood flow in the lateral calcaneal artery. The distally based lateral calcaneal flap has been successfully used in 2 patients. Vascular anatomy, indication, and technical points of the surgery as well as advantages and disadvantages of the flap are discussed.

We obtained most favorable results in 11 patients with a lateral calcaneal artery island flap. It is a simple, stable, sensate, and yet safe and versatile flap to repair defects around the ankle and heel. We have also used this flap to cover defects around the medial malleolus without any delay (extended lateral calcaneal artery island flap).

The lateral calcaneal artery flap provides a simple and reliable option for reconstructing the posterior heel defect. In our 10 cases including 3 diabetic patients, there was no flap necrosis, but one had the problem of wound healing. In another case, the skin graft over the flap donor site failed to take. All patients have protective sensation on the flap area, and 7 ambulatory patients can engage in a normal daily activity. Numbness over the lateral foot does not cause any trouble. There are a lot of spoke injuries in our 6-million-motorcycle country. When the conservative treatments do not achieve a satisfactory result, the lateral calcaneal artery flap should be the best surgical intervention for the defect less than 5 cm in diameter with bone or tendon exposure.

The sequence of vascular and bony changes that precedes experimental osteoarthrosis was observed in rabbits. The subchondral bone underlying the weight-bearing portion of the medial tibial condyle and the talocalcaneal joint were examined after two, three, and six weeks of 50-ms and 500-ms repetitive loading at 1 Hz for 40 minutes each day. Vascular alterations were evident in the subchondral bone of the talocalcaneal joint after three weeks of a 50-ms load regime. A 10% increase in bone mass and a significant increase in the number of small diameter vessels were observed after six weeks. No changes were observed in the tibial subchondral bone, consistent with the measured attenuation of load distal to this joint. No changes were observed in either tibial or calcaneal subchondral bone in the 500-ms load group. Impulsive loading promotes early vascular changes in subchondral bone, which are developed in response to both the magnitude and the rate of loading.