Fusion of the Tarsometatarsal Joints: A Focus on Lateral Column Fusion Nonunion Rates

Abstract

The literature has previously criticized lateral column arthrodesis, stating this procedure should be avoided to preserve biomechanical function. For patients with recurrent pain secondary to posttraumatic degenerative joint disease (PT-DJD) or dysfunction secondary to Charcot tarsometatarsal collapse, however, this procedure could provide a positive alternative to conservative measures. In our study, 37 patients underwent fourth and/or fifth metatarsal to cuboid arthrodesis, either in isolation or in combination with other tarsometatarsal arthrodeses, with an average follow-up of 27.7 ± 28.5 months. Of the 37 patients, 4 (10.8%) had purely isolated lateral column arthrodesis procedures, and 33 (89.2%) had additional fusions. Twenty patients (54.0%) were in the Charcot neuroarthropathy cohort and 17 (45.9%) in PT-DJD. Radiographs were reviewed to confirm osseous union and measure the lateral column position in both sagittal and transverse planes, using radiographic angles to measure angular correction in the transverse and sagittal planes. Postoperative patient satisfaction outcome measures were obtained via written survey, and 10-cm visual analog scale (VAS) was scored pre- and postoperatively. There was a statistically significant reduction in pain postoperatively (p < .001) and an 89% patient satisfaction rate. The incidence of revision for osseous nonunion was 10.8%. Our study shows that lateral column arthrodesis, either in isolation or combination, provides significant pain relief, high patient satisfaction, and a low incidence of revision per previous literature. This challenges past evidence-based medicine regarding lateral column fusions. The surgical procedures completed in this study suggest reproducible results with a low revision rates and high patient satisfaction for lateral column arthrodesis.