Total calcanectomy in calcaneal osteomyelitis: An alternative to major amputation.

Background: Hindfoot ulcers associated with chronic calcaneus osteomyelitis are very difficult to manage and many patients need a limb amputation for resolution. Total calcanectomy can be a salvage procedure for these patients. The purpose of this study is to present our results of total calcanectomy.

Methods: Retrospective analysis of six patients undergoing total calcanectomy at our institution between 2008 and 2019. Patient data and ambulatory status were analyzed.

Results: In 4 of the 6 patients, infection control and wound closure was achieved with total calcanectomy with follow-up ranging from 1 to 12 years. The 4 patients maintain walking ability. Two major complications: an early death caused by a respiratory infection and a below the knee amputation due to recurrence of the foot infection.

Conclusions: Total calcanectomy is an useful procedure for limb salvage in foot ulcers with chronic calcaneus osteomyelitis.