Experiences with twenty open reductions for fractures of the calcaneus are reported, with follow-up studies on nineteen patients, averaging 21.7 months. Excellent or very good functional results were achieved in 68.4 per cent. of these patients. The low incidence of morbidity following surgery, the short hospitalization periods, and the early return to work were important features. The degree of excellence of the anatomical restoration of the entire contour of the calcaneus did not necessarily parallel the degree of excellence of the functional result. The study suggests that restoration of a smooth weight-bearing articular surface is the main feature leading to a good end result. The authors feel that the Palmer method of treatment is far superior to other methods they have used, and they will continue to use it as standard treatment for fractures of the calcaneus requiring open reduction.