Description

Bohler's angle is a measurement on lateral radiographs of the calcaneus. It can help to identify displaced calcaneal fractures. It is named after the Austrian trauma surgeon Lorenz Bohler.


Bohler's angle is the angle between 2 lines where they cross at the highest part of the posterior articular surface:

(1) from the anterior process of the calcaneus through the highest part of the posterior articular surface

(2) from the most superior point of the tuberosity through the highest part of the posterior articular surface

 

Interpretation:

• The angle is usually 25 to 40 degrees.

• The angles in the left and right calcaneus are similar.

• A displaced intra-articular calcaneal fracture is associated with an angle less than 25 degrees.

• The functional outcome after internal fixation surgery is associated with correction of the angle.

• A normal angle does not exclude a non-displaced calcaneal fracture.


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