OBJECTIVE: To introduce the design of butterfly-shaped plate and its application in treatment for calcaneal fractures, and to discuss its clinical indications, advantages and disadvantages. METHODS: From February 2008 to April 2010, 22 patients with 26 intra-articular calcaneal fractures were treated by open reduction and internal fixation with butterfly-shape plate. Sixteen patients were male and 6 patients were female, with a mean age of 36.8 years. Eleven were left feet and 15, right. According to Sanders classification, 12 were Type II (including 3 Type IIa, 7 Type IIb and 2 Type IIc) and 14 were Type III (including 5 Type IIIab, 7 Type IIIac and 2 Type IIIbc). RESULTS: Seventeen patients (21 feet) were followed-up for an average of 19.2 months. The functional outcomes were assessed using the Maryland Foot Score system. Among the 9 feet with Type II fractures, 7 feet were scored excellent, 2 were good. Among the 12 Type III fractures, 6 were scored excellent, 5 were good, and one was fair. CONCLUSION: The butterfly-shaped plate is applicable to treatment for Sanders Type II and Type III calcaneal fractures, with advantages of ensuring reliable fixation, easier operation, fewer post-operative complications, and better clinical outcomes. Level of Evidence IV, Case Series.
Calcaneus; Fracture fixation, internal; Bone plates
