39 patients with 44 closed calcaneus fractures who were scheduled for open reduction and internal fixation were included in this trial to compare the use of negative pressure wound therapy dressings and standard dressings. The outcomes of interest in this trial were wound complications, pain, and functional outcomes. The preliminary results of this trial at 6 weeks indicated that there were no significant differences in wound complication rate or pain between groups; however, the statistical analysis was underpowered and conclusion should be reserved until enrollment has been completed.