The Single Medial Approach to Triple Arthrodesis: A Cadaver Study

Abstract

Triple arthrodesis is traditionally done through a two-incision approach. In certain high-risk patients, it may be desirable to do the procedure through a single medial incision to avoid lateral wound healing problems. A cadaver study was undertaken to determine the percentage of surface area of each hindfoot joint that could be prepared through a single medial incision. Five cadaver legs were assigned to the single-incision group, and one cadaver leg was used as the "standard" two-incision specimen. Through the single-incision approach, 91% of the talonavicular joint, 91% of the subtalar joint, and 90% of the calcaneocuboid joint could be prepared. These results were comparable to the two-incision cadaver specimen results. A single-incision medial approach for triple arthrodesis is a safe and effective technique in the management of hindfoot deformity and arthritis in certain high-risk patients.