CLOSED REDUCTION AND FIXATION OF CALCANEAL FRACTURES USING MODIFIED JESS (M- JESS) FIXATOR WITHIN 24 HOURS OF INJURY - A PROSPECTIVE INSTITUTIONAL STUDY

Background: High energy trauma causes intra articular calcaneal fractures which are a challenge to heal due to the obnoxious blood supply to the skin and soft tissues at the heel area. There always have been a debate regarding the best management options for intra-articular calcaneal fracture fixation.

Patients and methods: Between January 2022 and January 2023, a prospective study was done on 30 patients who presented with intra-articular calcaneal fractures sustained due to fall from height and were managed with minimally invasive fixation using Joshis External Stabilization System(JESS) and External Fixator, together called as Modified JESS (M-JESS), within 12 hours of injury.

Results: The mean follow up period was 16.14 months. Clinical evaluation was carried by using the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score. The mean AOFAS score was 84.4. There was evidence of fracture healing without collapse until the final follow-up. Complications encountered were superficial skin tract infection, pain and stiffness over sub-talar joint.