K-wire technique for calcaneal fractures: the "Six-Step Fixation Method"

K-wire technique for calcaneal fractures: the "Six-Step Fixation Method"

Step 1: Reduce and fix the calcaneocuboid joint with a 2.0 mm K-wire.  

Step 2: Reduce the posterior tuberosity and fix the posterior calcaneal tuberosity to the sustentaculum tali using a 2.5 mm K-wire.  

Step 3: Reduce the medial facet and fix it via the talus with a 1.5 mm K-wire.  

Step 4: After reducing the posterior facet, typically fix it with two 1.5 mm K-wires.  

Step 5: Fix the posterior facet to the talus, especially in tongue-type fractures.  

Step 6: Fix the posterosuperior tubercle to the anterior tubercle, usually with two 2.0 mm K-wires.  

Summary:  

Lateral view   ：

Axial view (image)   ：

When to remove the K-wires?

Dr. Xu Yinglei recommends removal at 50 days postoperatively.  

When to start weight-bearing walking?

Start partial weight-bearing at 2 months postoperatively, and transition to full weight-bearing by 3 months postoperatively.