Using the Scope in the Treatment of Flatfoot? Are You Kidding?

Abstract

Flatfoot surgery is evolving. As in other areas, less invasive techniques result in fewer wound complications, less postoperative pain, less bleeding, shorter hospital stays, and potentially shorter recovery times. In this article, we outline how the arthroscope can be used in flatfoot surgery to reduce the invasiveness of surgery. The article outlines how to perform a percutaneous gastrocnemius slide for the associated tight heel cord, and how to perform tibialis posterior tendoscopy. A percutaneous medializing calcaneal osteotomy can be performed as an arthroscopic guided procedure to confirm the placement of the saw, and ensure a safe cut. Arthroscopic ankle fusion, triple arthrodesis, subtalar fusion, and navicular cuneiform fusion can be used in select cases to correct the deformity. The methods and techniques are outlined.