The Effect of Calcaneal Fractures on Functional and Economic Outcome in the Industrial Patient

Michael A Scherer*

Department of Trauma and Orthopedic Surgery, Helios Amper-Klinikum Dachau, Germany

^*Correspondance to: Michael A Scherer 

 PDF  Full Text DOI: 10.25107/2474-1647.3171

Abstract

Background: In the working population calcaneal fractures lead to a poor functional outcome frequently followed by a distinct economic impact. The purpose of this study was to investigate on the economic and functional outcome following a calcaneal fracture among the industrial patient population. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on industrial patients who sustained a calcaneal fracture. Health related costs were covered by the Workers? Compensation Board. Chart reviews were performed and patients were evaluated clinically and radiographically. Outcome measures included the AOFAS Hindfoot questionnaire, the Short Form 36, time off work, impairment rate and cost. Results: 85 patients with 93 fractures were included. After an average follow-up of 21 months the mean total AOFAS was 58 points, SF-36 56 points, time off work 208 days, impairment rate 12% and inpatient/outpatient cost 6.172/22.350 euro per patient. Regardless of fracture type nonsurgical treatment lead to a significantly better AOFAS score, superior SF-36 score, significantly less time lost from work, lower impairment rate and less cost when compared to surgical treatment. The comparison after stratification of fractures displayed better outcome in all parameters for any extraarticular fracture when treatment was conservative. Intraarticular fractures resulted in better outcome scores (AOFAS, SF-36) but worse socioeconomic parameters when treated surgically. Conclusion: In the industrial population calcaneal fractures have a perspicuous physical, mental and socioeconomic impact. Fractures not involving the joint lead to a better outcome when treatment is conservative, while intraarticular fractures result in superior functional outcome, but worse socioeconomic parameters when treatment is surgical.

Keywords

Calcaneal fracture; Industrial patient; Workers compensation

Cite the article

Scherer MA. The Effect of Calcaneal Fractures on Functional and Economic Outcome in the Industrial Patient. Clin Surg. 2021; 6: 3171..