Identification of Postoperative Step-Offs and Gaps With Brodén's View Following Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of Calcaneal Fractures. (July 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Looijen, Rosalie C.; Misselyn, Dominique; Backes, Manouk; Dingemans, Siem A.; Halm, Jens A.; Schepers, Tim
• Is Part Of: Foot & ankle international. Volume 40:Number 7(2019)
• Page Start: 797
• Page End: 802
• Publication Date: 2019-07
• Subjects: calcaneus -- fracture -- ORIF -- hindfoot -- Brodén's view -- step-off -- gap; Foot -- Abnormalities -- Periodicals; Ankle -- Abnormalities -- Periodicals; Orthopedics -- Periodicals; 617.585
• DOI: 10.1177/1071100719840812
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1071-1007

Abstract

Background: To date, there is no consensus regarding which postoperative imaging technique should be used after open reduction and internal fixation of an intra-articular calcaneal fracture. The aim of this study was to clarify whether Brodén's view is sufficient as postoperative radiologic examination to assess step-offs and gaps of the posterior facet. Methods: Six observers estimated the size of step-offs and gaps on Brodén's view in 42 surgically treated intra-articular calcaneal fractures. These findings were compared to postoperative CT scans (gold standard). Inter- and intraobserver reliability were calculated and compared using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). Results: An accuracy of approximately 75% for both step-offs and gaps was found in foot and ankle experts. Less experienced observers correctly identified step-offs and gaps in approximately 62% of cases on fluoroscopy and in 48% on radiographs. Interobserver reliability for intraoperative fluoroscopy as well as postoperative radiographs was fair for step-offs, whereas interobserver reliability for gaps was excellent. Intraobserver reliability showed a low level of agreement for intraoperative fluoroscopy, in contrast to postoperative radiographs with excellent agreement for step-offs and good agreement for gaps. Conclusion: Our results show that especially for more experienced foot and ankle surgeons, in the majority of fractures, Brodén's view accurately showed step-offs and gaps following open reduction and internal fixation. Interobserver reliability showed a fair level of agreement for step-offs and excellent agreement for gaps. Intraobserver reliability was only enough for radiographs, not for fluoroscopy. Level of Evidence: Level IV, case series.