Subtalare Arthrorise mittels Kalix-Schraube beim Knick-Senkfuß

Abstract

Summary Introduction The subtalar arthrorisis with the Kalix screw is a minimally invasive method for the correction of the flatfoot especially for children with cerebral palsy. The purpose of our study was to evaluate clinical and radiological outcome as well as complications using the Kalix screw. Methods From 2002 to 2004, 21 children with 34 flexible flatfeet were treated by subtalar arthrorisis with Kalix screws: 16 children with cerebral palsy, 4 healthy children with painful flexible flatfoot, one child with an overcorrected clubfoot. All children underwent pre- and postoperative radiographic examination. Gait and cosmetic correction were evaluated clinically. Results 80% of the patients were very satisfied or satisfied. 20% were dissatisfied because of the postoperative walking problems. 73% of the patients could walk better after operation. 80% of the patients had good cosmetic correction of the foot. The talo-cal-caneal angle could be corrected on average by 9° in the d.p. view and in the lateral view by 11°. In three cases the screws had to be changed after dislocation. There were no other complications. Conclusion Surgical treatment with the Kalix screw is a good and easy surgical treatment for the correction of the flexible flat-foot in children, especially with cerebral palsy. Because of the high luxation rate and because 10% of the children were not satisfied, long-term results are necessary for the final assessment of this implant.