Arthrodesis of the subtalar and talonavicular joints through a medial surgical approach: a series of 15 cases

Abstract

We report a series of 15 double-hindfoot (subtalar and talonavicular joint) arthrodeses through a single medial approach on 14 patients. Mean age at surgery was 59.3 years. The chosen surgical technique was always identical using a medial approach and performed by a single surgeon. The average follow-up was 20.6 months. The mean Kitaoka score increased from 44 to 75, axis of the hindfoot decreased from 21 degrees to 11 degrees in valgus, arch foot angle decreased from 142 degrees to 134.4 degrees . Two failures have led to a secondary complementary arthrodesis of the talocrural joint. Throughout our study, subtalar and talonavicular arthrodesis in the treatment of painful valgus deformities of the hindfoot reveals to be a valuable and safe alternative. The chosen fixation method combined with a good articular surface avivement through medial approach guarantee a long-term fusion. Moreover, resort to a medial approach significantly reduces wound complications. This medial approach procedure permits the fusion without developing non-union and provides a significant correction of the fixed deformities.