Learning objectives
The aims of this exhibit are first to describe the normal multiplanar CT anatomy of the calcaneus; second to identify the CT features of calcaneal fractures and their treatment implications; and third to provide a structured CT report for calcaneal fractures.
Background
The calcaneus is the primary weight-bearing bone in the heel.
Calcaneal fractures are the most frequent tarsal fractures accounting for 2% of all adult fractures and 60% of tarsal fractures.
The complex anatomy of the calcaneus should be well understood for determining fracture patterns and accessing calcaneal injuries.
The calcaneus has four articulating surfaces,
three superior and one anterior.
The superior surfaces containing the posterior,
middle and anterior facets,
articulate with the talus.
The posterior facet is separated from the middle and anterior facets by...
Findings and procedure details
I. CT anatomy of the calcaneus
Multidetector CT with multiplanar reformation (MPR) is commonly used for the assessment of calcaneal fractures.
The CT scan is obtained with the patient lying supine on the scanner with the knee flexed and the foot as plantigrade as the patient would allow.
Reconstruction CT planes are obtained in 3mm slice thickness.
The ankle joint is used on the axial images as a reference to obtain true sagittal and coronal planes of the hindfoot.
For Sanders classification,
the axial and...
Conclusion
Multidector CT is essential in diagnosis and pretreatment planning of calcaneal fractures.
Radiologists must be familiar with calcaneal anatomy,
fracture mechanisms and patterns,
and treatment implications to help guide the treating orthopedist.
References
1. Badillo K,
Pacheco JA,
Padua SO,
Gomez AA,
Colon E,
Vidal JA.
Multidetector CT evaluation of calcaneal fractures.
RadioGraphics 2011; 31: 81- 92.
2. Daftary A,
Haims AH,
Baumgaertner MR.
Fractures of the calcaneus: A review with emphasis on CT.
RadioGraphics 2005; 25: 1215- 1226.
3. Moussa KM,
Hassaan MAE,
Moharram AN,
Elmahdi MD.
The role of multidetector CT in evaluation of calcaneal fractures.
The Egyptian Journal of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine 2015; 46: 413- 421.
4. Galluzzo M,
Greco F,
Pietragalla M,
et...