Permissive Weight Bearing in Displaced Intra-articular Calcaneal Fractures

Launched by MAASTRICHT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER · Feb 7, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking at the best way to help people recover after a specific type of foot fracture called a displaced intra-articular calcaneal fracture, which affects the heel bone. The study will compare two approaches to weight-bearing after surgery: one where patients can put some weight on their foot (permissive weight bearing) and another where they need to keep their weight off the foot for a longer period (restricted weight bearing). Researchers want to see which method leads to better recovery, fewer complications, and improved quality of life.

To participate in this trial, you need to be between 18 and 67 years old and have had surgery for a specific type of heel fracture within the last six weeks. You should be able to understand the instructions and questionnaires related to the study. However, if you have certain conditions like severe arthritis, other serious health issues, or previous amputations, you may not be eligible. If you choose to take part, you can expect to follow a rehabilitation program and help researchers learn more about the best ways to recover from this type of injury.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Surgically treated trauma patients with isolated unilateral DIACFs, less than 6 weeks after trauma, Sanders type II-IV (14)
• • Age between 18 and 67 years old (labor force)
• • Being able to understand the questionnaires and measurement instructions
• • Indication for open/closed reduction and internal fixation
• • Written Informed Consent
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Acute or existing amputation (upper limb, lower limb, feet)
• • Open calcaneal fractures (excluding medial wound without compromising surgical approach)
• • Bilateral fractures of the lower extremities
• • Unable to comply to the PWB protocol due to pre-existing conditions of the arms and legs (e.g. unable to use crotches due to hemiparalysis)
• • Severe non-fracture related comorbidity of the lower extremity
• • Pre-existent immobility (loss of muscle function of one or both legs)
• • Dependent in activities of daily living (e.g. due to dementia, Alzheimer, New York Heart Association class IV angina, heart failure or oxygen-dependent chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
• • Rheumatoid arthritis of the lower extremities
• • Severe psychiatric comorbidities that lead to inability to comply with the treatment protocol
• • Pathologic fractures (metastasis, secondary osteoporosis)
• • Peripheral neuropathy and/or diabetes
• • Alcohol- or drug abuse preventing adequate follow-up
• • Primary indication for arthrodesis subtalar joint
• • Two or more fractures of the upper and/or lower extremities