[Calcaneal fractures in childhood: a retrospective survey and literature review].

Calcaneal fractures (CF) are uncommon injuries in childhood; most data concerning CF originate from studies of adult trauma. In a retrospective analysis, we evaluated CF in children treated in our department over the last 5 years. In addition, we reviewed the current literature concerning the mechanism of injury, diagnostics, and complications after conservative and operative treatment. In addition, we evaluated the diagnosis and treatment of CF in children and adolescents in another five pediatric trauma centers in Germany by the help of a questionnaire. The data for the last 5 years (48 fractures) and in the current literature confirm that CF remain uncommon in childhood. Regarding the mechanism of injury, fracture pattern, and diagnosis, specific differences between pediatric and adult patients exist. Treatment strategies and recommendations are still inconsistent. In extraarticular and nondislocated fractures, conservative treatment does not seem problematic. But in intraarticular fractures with dislocation of the joint, operative treatment with anatomic reduction is advised in order to avoid long-term consequences.