Surgical Removal of Bone Bridge and Interposition of the Extensor Digitorum Brevis in the Treatment of Calcaneonavicular Coalition in Pediatric Patients: A Case Series, Short Review, and Commentary

Abstract

This study retrospectively presents a single-clinic case series of pediatric patients with calcaneonavicular coalition treated by surgical removal of the bone bridge and interposition of the extensor digitorum brevis. This technique is currently the most cited and utilized protocol in operative treatment. Clinical, functional, and radiological results are analyzed and compared with related research. This is a single-clinic retrospective study, conducted for a period of 15 years. One independent investigator reviewed medical records and conducted a de-identified preoperative, inpatient, and postoperative assessment focused on demographic data, history and clinical evaluation, imaging assessment, American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scoring, and complication analysis. Of 34 patients, 13 met the inclusion criteria. Mean patient age was 11.2 years; 10 were males and 3 were females. Pathology concerned the right lower limb in eight cases and the left in five. Mean time between diagnosis and surgical intervention was 4.3 months and mean postoperative follow-up was 27.2 months. Thorough overview of reported symptoms, identified signs, imaging evaluation, functional outcomes, and adverse effects was performed. Bone bridge removal and interposition of the extensor digitorum brevis is an effective method of treating the condition. Despite drawbacks, results are comparable or even, to some degree, superior to other techniques.