Distraction Bone Block Arthrodesis Research Articles

Approach for Neglected Calcaneal Fracture-Dislocation and Associated Complications

Calcaneal fractures lead to significant debility that can be increased due to delayed or improper surgical repair and are commonly complicated by nonunion. This report explores a unique case of neglected calcaneal fracture with malalignment complicated by subluxing peroneal tendons, arthritis of the hindfoot, and tear of the peroneal retinaculum. The operative intervention consisted of open Achilles tendon lengthening, bone block distraction arthrodesis of the subtalar joint with talonavicular and calcaneocuboid fusion, along with repair of subluxing peroneal tendons with fibular groove deepening. Postoperative imaging at 25 weeks revealed intact hardware, stable alignment, and complete osseous arthrodesis of involved joints, which was also redemonstrated at 1-year postoperative. Reports of reconstructive options for neglected calcaneal fractures that restore mobility, such as this case, are important due to the significant patient burden these injuries impose and the paucity of viably restorative options currently available. Level of Evidence: Level-IV.

Delayed Distraction Bone Block Arthrodesis for a Sanders IV Calcaneus Fracture Nonunion Using Tricortical Iliac Crest Allograft and Reamer/Irrigator/Aspirator Femoral Autograft.

We present the surgical technique for arthrodesis of the subtalar and calcaneocuboid joints of a Sanders type IV calcaneal fracture nonunion via a distraction bone block arthrodesis technique with tricortical iliac crest allograft combined with reamer/irrigator/aspirator autograft from the patient's femur. A lateral extensile approach to the calcaneus was used for the exposure, which allowed the surgeon to follow the stepwise complex surgical plan outlined here. Calcaneal nonunions are difficult to treat, but good outcomes can be achieved if proper technique with bone grafting is used.

Medial approach for subtalar distraction bone block arthrodesis

Subtalar distraction bone block arthrodesis is a useful technique commonly employed in the management of calcaneal and talar fracture malunion. Traditionally it is performed via a posterolateral or extensile lateral approach, however such approaches have been associated with wound complications, particularly secondary to the added stress caused by the subtalar distraction crucial to this technique. Medial approaches to the subtalar joint have been used in other procedures but have not been reported in subtalar distraction bone block arthrodesis. A novel case and technique illustrating the medial approach for subtalar distraction bone block arthrodesis is discussed. Level of clinical evidenceLevel 4.

Is Distraction Bone Block Arthrodesis better than Subtalar Arthrodesis for Malunited Calcaneal Fractures with Subtalar Arthritis? A Retrospective Case Series

To compare the clinicoradiological outcome between in situ and distraction bone block arthrodesis in patients with malunited calcaneal fracture. Patients presenting with painful subtalar joint arthritis between January 2015 and March 2018 were included after thorough clinical and radiological evaluation. In situ group I had 22 patients and distraction group II had 14. All patients were evaluated at final follow-up for functional outcome with American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot score, and radiological parameters including talocalcaneal height (TCH), calcaneal pitch (CP), lateral talocalcaneal angle (LTCA), and talar declination angle (TDA). Mean follow-up was 19.26 months for in situ and 12.91 months for distraction group. AOFAS ankle-hindfoot score improved postoperative in both groups, but the difference between the groups was not significant ( p value = 0.371). Statistically significant improvement was observed in radiological parameters of talocalcaneal height ( p value = 0.006), calcaneal pitch ( p value = 0.025), lateral talocalcaneal angle ( p value = 0.078), and talar declination angle( p value = 0.02) in the distraction group. Distraction arthrodesis restores hindfoot radiological parameters better compared to the in situ group; however, there is no significant difference in functional outcome between the groups. Sundararajan SR, Ramakanth R, Shreeram V, et al. Is Distraction Bone Block Arthrodesis better than Subtalar Arthrodesis for Malunited Calcaneal Fractures with Subtalar Arthritis? A Retrospective Case Series. J Foot Ankle Surg (Asia Pacific) 2021;8(1):3–7.

Shaped titanium wedges for subtalar distraction arthrodesis: Early clinical and radiological results

BackgroundDisplaced intraarticular calcaneum fractures are associated with late symptomatic hind foot malalignment and painful arthrosis for which distraction subtalar fusion might be considered. During subtalar distraction arthrodesis, a structural graft is often used to fill gaps. Autograft, the current gold standard, is limited in availabilityand is associated with donor-site morbidity and collapse. Allografts have the risk of infectious disease transmission, rejection and failure to integrate. The clinical outcomes and midterm results of subtalar distraction arthrodesis with biofoamtitanium wedges are presented. MethodsA review of 4 patients (3 male and 1 female) undergoing subtalar bone block distraction arthrodesis using biofoam titanium wedges is reported. Results were evaluated clinically and radiologically Mean time from trauma to surgery was 27.5 months and mean follow up was 12 months. ResultsThe mean FAAM ADL score improved from 31.4% preoperatively to 74.2% postoperatively and mean AOFAS score improved from 23.4 preoperatively to 69.6 postoperatively.There was improvement in all radiographic parameters, with 44% improvement in calcaneal pitch, 23% improvement in talocalcaneal angle, 21% increase in talus-first metatarsal angle, and 13.5% correction of talocalcaneal height. VAS Pain scores wasimproved from a pre-operative mean of 8 to a post-operative mean of 2. Mean time to fusion was 13 weeks. Union was achieved in all cases. ConclusionOur data suggest titanium wedges may be used as a structural graft option for subtalar bone block distraction arthrodesis. Fusion rates and time to incorporation are comparable to autogenous bone graft without the associated morbidity.Level IV Case Series.

Computer-assisted virtual surgical technology in pre-operative design for the reconstruction of calcaneal fracture malunion.

No computer-assisted pre-operative design for calcaneal fracture malunions has been presented. The aim of the study is to evaluate the intra-operative realization of computer-assisted pre-operative planning (CAPP) and the clinical outcomes based on computer-assisted virtual surgical technology for calcaneal malunions. Between 2010 and 2016, 20 patients with 21 calcaneal fracture malunions were retrospectively reviewed with the average follow-up time of 22.3months (range, 12 to 43months), which were operatively treated with the help of CAPP. The CAPP steps included the image segmentation, exostectomy of lateral wall, simulated reconstruction of calcaneal thalamus, morphological evaluation, and the implantation of internal fixation devices. Post-operative outcomes were assessed with the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score, SF-36 physical component summary (PCS), VAS for pain, range of motion of ankle, and the morphological parameters of the calcaneus including the axial length of the calcaneus, the height of the posterior facet, the talocalcaneal angle, Böhler's angle, and Gissane's angle. The mean time required for CAPP was 41.8minutes. All the surgical processes were carried out according to CAPP. Six patients (6feet) were treated with the joint-preserving osteotomy. Fourteen patients (15feet) underwent the subtalar distraction bone block arthrodesis, among which the medial displacement calcaneal osteotomy was additionally performed in six patients (6feet). At the final follow-up, the average AOFAS, SF-36 PCS, and VAS scores were significantly improved to 77.4, 64.3, and 1.4, respectively (P < 0.001). The postoperative calcaneal morphological parameters and the range of motion of ankle were significantly restored (P < 0.05). CAPP can assist surgeons in understanding calcaneal malunions, thereby improving intraoperative correction and reconstruction. The satisfying clinical and radiographic outcomes could be provided after treating calcaneal malunions aided by the computer-assisted virtual surgical technology.

Application and research progress of subtalar distraction bone block arthrodesis in treatment of calcaneus fracture malunion

To review the application and research progress of subtalar distraction bone block arth-rodesis in the treatment of calcaneus fracture malunion. The recent literature concerning the history, surgical technique, postoperative complication, indications, and curative effect of subtalar distraction arthrodesis with bone graft block interposition in the treatment of calcaneus fracture malunion was summarized and analyzed. Subtalar distraction bone block arthrodesis is one of the main ways to treat calcaneus fracture malunion, including a combined surgery with subtalar arthrodesis and realignment surgery for hindfoot deformity using bone block graft. The advantage is on the base of subtalar joint fusion, through one-time retracting subtalar joint, the posterior articular surface of subtalar joint implants bone block can partially restore calcaneal height, thus improving the function of the foot. Compared with other calcaneal malunion treatments, subtalar distraction arthrodesis is effective to correct complications caused by calcaneus fracture malunion, and it can restore the height of talus and calcaneus, correct loss of talocalcaneal angle, and ease pain. Subtalar distraction bone block arthrodesis has made remarkable progress in the treatment of calcaneus fracture malunion, but it has the disadvantages of postoperative nonunion and absorption of bone block, so further study is needed.

The Effect of Alterations of Calcaneal Height on the Ankle and Chopart’s Joint: A Cadaveric Study

Fracture of the calcaneum is common, and the majority are displaced intra-articular fracture patterns. Over the last three decades there have been considerable advances in the management of this injury. Open reduction and internal fixation is an accepted treatment for displaced fractures, and percutaneous techniques are now emerging. However, surgical treatment remains controversial, and many fractures are still managed conservatively. Non-operative management of displaced fractures may result in a disabling fracture malunion. The malunion is often a widened and depressed calcaneum, with subtalar joint disruption. This creates a five time risk of requiring a subtalar arthrodesis within 5 years of injury. Affected patients are frequently men of working age, with potentially significant socioeconomic consequences. Bone Block Distraction Arthrodesis (BBDA) is a technique used for the management of calcaneal malunion. In BBDA, restoration of the talocalcaneal height has been described for reconstitution of the talocalcaneal relationship. By restoring the talo calcaneal height, anterior tibio-talar impingement is relieved and ankle dorsiflexion range improved. In our clinical experience we have also noted a rotational change in the talus with loss of calcaneal height. We hypothesised that depression of the calcaneal articular surface causes extension of the talus in the sagittal plane, causing anterior tibiotalar impingement, but additionally, incongruity of the talonavicular joint. This hypothesis is important in surgical correction, because classical BBDA may need to be modified to include reversal of the abnormal talar rotation to restore Chopart’s joint alignment. Appropriate restoration of the subtalar joint surface and talonavicular joint anatomy is likely to reduce the need for arthrodesis, and improve function. This cadaveric study is a proof of concept aiming to demonstrate changes in talar inclination and talo-navicular joint alignment following loss of calcaneum height, as is the case in calcaneum malunion, and then following restoration of the calcaneal height as in BBDA.

Subtalar Distraction Osteogenesis for Posttraumatic Arthritis Following Intra-Articular Calcaneal Fractures

The most common treatment for old calcaneal fractures accompanied by subtalar joint injury is the use of subtalar in situ arthrodesis and subtalar distraction bone-block arthrodesis or osteotomy. This article describes the introduction of a novel surgical treatment, gradual subtalar distraction with external fixation and restoration of the calcaneal height, and presents an assessment of its efficacy. The protruding lateral calcaneus and the articular surfaces and subchondral bone of the posterior facet of the subtalar joint were surgically removed. An external fixator, attached with 2 pins in the subcutaneous tibia and 2 pins in the posterolateral calcaneus, was used to fix the subtalar joint for 7 to 10 days followed by gradual subtalar distraction at 1 mm/d. The lengthening procedure was stopped when the calcaneal height was restored according to radiography. The external fixator was removed after bone fusion. Seven cases of old calcaneal fractures accompanied by severe subtalar joint injury (8 feet) were treated using this method. Average follow-up was 14.3 months (range, 7-36 months). In all 7 cases (1 case of both feet), the postoperative wound healed primarily. The calcaneal heights of all 8 feet were partially restored. Subtalar joint bone fusion was completed within 4 to 6 months after the operation. The average preoperative American Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot score was 25.3, and the average postoperative AOFAS score was 76.3. Subtalar distraction osteogenesis with external fixation was a novel and effective method for the treatment of old calcaneal fractures accompanied by severe subtalar joint injury in this small group of patients. Level IV, retrospective case series.

Die Interpositionsarthrodese des Großzehengrundgelenks zur Behandlung eines Funktionsdefizits der Großzehe nach Resektionsarthroplastik: Kurz- bis mittelfristige Ergebnisse

Bone block distraction arthrodesis of the hallux metatarsophalangeal joint is a valuable treatment option for stabliziation and reconstruction of the first ray after resection arthroplasty. 28 patients with 30 bone block distraction arthrodeses were examined after 34,10 +/- 15,34 (8-62) month. The AOFAS forefoot score increased from 37,47 +/- 17,48 (10-80) points preoperativ to 66,59 +/- 16,03 (23-90) ponts at follow-up (p < 0,01). After fixation with a standard dorsal plate (n = 16) 3 non-unions developed (21%), after fixation with locking plate (n = 14) one non-union developed (7%) and after k-wire fixation (n = 3) another non-union developed. The overall rate for non-unions was 17%. In all cases a bony fusion could be established after a revision bone grafting procedure.

Operative treatment of intra-articular calcaneal fractures with calcaneal plates and its complications.

Background:In a retrospective study we analysed intra-articular calcaneal fracture treatment by comparing results and complications related to fracture stabilization with nonlocking calcaneal plates and locking compression plates.Materials and Methods:We performed 76 osteosynthesis (67 patients) of intra-articular calcaneal fractures using the standard extended lateral approach from February 2004 to October 2007. Forty-two operations using nonlocking calcaneal plates (group A) were performed during the first three years, and 34 calcaneal fractures were stabilized using locking compression plates (group B) in 2007. In the Sanders type IV fractures, reconstruction of the calcaneal shape was attempted. Depending on the type of late complication, we performed subtalar arthroscopy in six cases, arthroscopically assisted subtalar distraction bone block arthrodesis in six cases, and plate removal with lateral-wall decompression in five cases. The patients were evaluated by the AOFAS Ankle-Hindfoot Scale.Results:Wound healing complications were 7/42 (17%) in group A and 1/34 (3%) in group B. No patient had deep osseous infection or foot rebound compartment syndrome. Preoperative size of Böhler's angle correlated with postoperative clinical results in both groups. There were no late complications necessitating corrective procedure or arthroscopy until December 2008 in Group B. All late complications ccurred in Group A. The overall results according to the AOFAS Ankle Hindfoot Scale were good or excellent in 23/42 (55%) in group A and in 30/34 (85%) in group B.Conclusion:Open reduction and internal fixation of intra-articular calcaneal fractures has become a standard surgical method. Fewer complications and better results related to treatment with locking compression plates confirmed in comparison to nonlocking ones were noted for all Sanders types of intra-articular calcaneal fractures. Age and Sanders type IV fractures are not considered to be the contraindications to surgery.

Reconstruction of the First Metatarsophalangeal Joint Following Post-cheilectomy Avascular Necrosis of the First Metatarsal Head: A Case Report

Avascular necrosis of the first metatarsal head is a well-known, albeit rare, complication associated with hallux abductovalgus surgery. In this report, we describe the case of a 51-year-old male who developed osteonecrosis of the first metatarsal head 1 year after undergoing an isolated cheilectomy for the treatment of hallux rigidus. To our knowledge, this is the first published report of osteonecrosis following isolated cheilectomy used for the treatment of hallux rigidus. A bone graft substitute with undifferentiated stem cells was used to pack the medullary canals of the first metatarsal and the proximal phalanx. A section of autogenous calcaneal graft was used to perform a bone block distraction arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint. 4.

Primary Isolated Subtalar Arthrodesis: Outcome after 2 to 5 Years Followup

Favorable to excellent clinical results have been reported for isolated subtalar joint arthrodesis. Pedobarography after subtalar bone-block distraction arthrodesis have demonstrated a more laterally shifted gait line. However pedobarographic measurements after primary in-situ isolated subtalar arthrodesis have not been reported. This is the first study considering this. Physical examination, AOFAS Hindfoot score, full weightbearing anterior/posterior and lateral radiographs were assessed in 15 feet. Peak pressures, ground reaction force and force distribution at foot-flat and push-off were measured. Average AOFAS-Score significantly improved. Subjective satisfaction was high. Non-union was found in 1 foot (7%), screws were removed in 4 of the 15 feet (27%). One new asymptomatic arthritic talonavicular joint was found. The pressure and force distributions under the operated and contralateral foot showed a different pattern compared to a normal foot. Ground reaction force under both the operated and contralateral feet were lower than a normal foot. This study found good clinical, subjective and radiographic results matching that of the reported literature. However, pedobarographic assessment suggests that great functional differences still remain when compared to a normal foot. Subtalar arthrodesis may induce an abnormal gait pattern by preventing compensation of axial rotation of the tibia. This is also reflected in the unaffected side, which may indicate an effort in the general locomotor control to keep a symmetrical gait pattern. This finally alters the pressure and force distribution under both feet. Nevertheless, subtalar arthrodesis is considered a valuable treatment for various isolated subtalar disorders.

Subtalar Distraction Arthrodesis Using Interpositional Frozen Structural Allograft

Subtalar bone-block distraction arthrodesis using structural autograft carries the risk of donor site morbidity. Recent reports suggest that structural allograft may be an attractive alternative to structural autograft in subtalar arthrodesis. This prospective study analyzes subtalar distraction arthrodesis using interpositional structural allograft. Between 2000 and 2006, 22 patients (24 feet; mean age, 45.6 years) underwent subtalar arthrodesis with interpositional fresh-frozen femoral head structural allograft. Indications included subtalar arthrosis, loss of heel height, and anterior ankle impingement. Clinical outcome was assessed using the AOFAS ankle-hindfoot scoring system. Time to union was determined by previously reported clinical findings and radiographic evidence for bridging trabeculation between host bone and structural allograft. Mean followup was 35.8 months for 20 patients (21 feet) available for followup evaluation. Union was achieved in 19 of 21 patients (90%) at a mean of 15.5 (range, 11 to 19) weeks. Mean AOFAS hindfoot score improved from 21 to 71 points (p < 0.05). Radiographic analysis suggested significant (p < 0.05) improvement in all measurements. Complications included nonunion (2), varus malalignment (1), persistent subfibular impingement (1), sural neuralgia (1), and prominent hardware (2). Both patients with nonunions had avascular bone at the arthrodesis site and used tobacco products. This study supports recent publications that subtalar arthrodesis using interpositional structural allograft can have a favorable outcome. Our clinical and radiographic results suggest that restoration of hindfoot function and dimensions with structural allograft are comparable to results reported for the same procedure using structural autograft. Level IV, prospective case series.

Posterior Bone Block Distraction Arthrodesis of the Subtalar Joint: A Review of 22 Cases

Twenty-two patients underwent a posterior bone block distraction arthrodesis of the subtalar joint between 1999 and 2006. The indication for surgery was loss of heel height, subtalar joint arthrosis, decreased talar declination with associated tibiotalar impingement, insufficient Achilles tendon function, malalignment of the rear foot, and pain with ambulation. There were 11 male and 11 female patients with a mean age of 46.7 years (range 20 to 71). The mean follow-up period was 27.3 months (range 12 to 63.9 months). Radiographic analysis revealed a mean increase in heel height of 6.09 mm (P= .0001), 5.83 degrees (P= .12) of lateral talocalcaneal angle, 5.5 degrees (P= .06) of talar declination, and 5.23 degrees (P= .07) of calcaneal inclination. The talo-first metatarsal angle increased an average of 4.5 degrees (P= .18). There was a 95.5% union rate. Postoperative complications included nonunion in 1 patient, subsidence of graft (collapse) in 1 patient, wound dehiscence in 3 patients, painful hardware in 7 patients, sural neuritis in 1 patient, superior cluneal nerve dysfunction in 1 patient and one mild varus malunion. Posterior bone block distraction arthrodesis can be successfully used to restore heel height, realign the foot, and decrease the morbidity associated with late complications of calcaneal fractures, as well as, nonunion and/or malunion following subtalar joint arthrodesis, Charcot neuroarthropathy, and avascular necrosis of the talus. 4.

In situ arthrodesis with lateral-wall ostectomy for the sequelae of fracture of the os calcis

Distraction bone-block arthrodesis has been advocated for the treatment of the late sequelae of fracture of the os calcis. Between 1997 and 2003 we studied a consecutive series of 17 patients who had in situ arthrodesis for subtalar arthritis after fracture of the os calcis with marked loss of talocalcaneal height. None had undergone any previous attempts at reconstruction. We assessed the range of dorsiflexion and plantar flexion and measured the talocalcaneal height, talocalcaneal angle and talar declination angle on standing lateral radiographs, comparing them with the normal foot. The mean follow-up was for 78.7 months (48 to 94). The mean American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society hindfoot score improved from 29.8 (13 to 48) to 77.8 (48 to 94) (Student's t-test, p < 0.001). The mean loss of talocalcaneal height was 10.3 mm (2 to 17) and the mean talar declination angle was 6.7 degrees (0 degrees to 16 degrees) which was 36% of the normal side. One patient suffered anterior ankle pain but none had anterior impingement. Two patients complained of difficulty in ascending slopes and stairs and four in descending. The mean ankle dorsiflexion on the arthrodesed side was 11.6 degrees (0 degrees to 24 degrees) compared with 14.7 degrees (0 degrees to 24 degrees) on the normal side, representing a reduction of 21.1%. The mean plantar flexion on the arthrodesed side was 35.5 degrees (24 degrees to 60 degrees) compared with 44.6 degrees (30 degrees to 60 degrees ) on the normal side, a reduction of 20.4%. These results suggest that anterior impingement need not to be a significant problem after subtalar arthrodesis for fracture of the os calcis, even when the loss of talocalcaneal height is marked. We recommend in situ arthrodesis combined with lateral-wall ostectomy for all cases of subtalar arthritis following a fracture of the os calcis, without marked coronal deformity, regardless of the degree of talocalcaneal height loss.

Revision of Failed Keller Arthroplasty With Intercalary Bone Graft

The purpose of this article is to report a new technique in the treatment of patients first metatarsophalangeal (MTP1) joint with arthrodesis after a failed Keller arthroplasty. A 3-cm intercalary bone graft, taken from the iliac crest, is used as a salvage procedure for bone-block distraction arthrodesis of the painful shortened MTP joint. Indications are younger patients with a short first metatarsal, cock-up deformity, and associated metatarsalgia of the lesser metatarsals in addition to a painful MTP1 joint. Using gait analysis preoperatively and postoperatively, a trend to normalization of the load-bearing pattern under the metatarsal heads and toes is observed. Although generally good results are observed, the complication rate is high, mainly because of malunion and nonunion.

Factors Associated With Outcome After Subtalar Arthrodesis

To evaluate radiographic and functional outcomes after subtalar arthrodesis and to identify patient factors associated with poor outcome. Retrospective study. Two academic hospitals. Eighty-eight patients with primary or secondary osteoarthritis treated between 1995 and 2002. Primary subtalar arthrodesis. Radiographic outcome was assessed by determining union rates. Functional outcome was assessed through self-administered questionnaires (Short Form-36, Short Musculoskeletal Function Assessment, and the AAOS Foot and Ankle Instrument). After adjusting for age and sex smokers were 3.8 times more likely to go on to nonunion than nonsmokers (P < 0.05). As patients aged, there was a higher likelihood of nonunion if they also smoked (P < 0.05). Of patients undergoing subtalar bone block distraction arthrodesis 95% went on to union compared with 65% of patients treated with an in situ subtalar arthrodesis without bone graft (P < 0.05). There was a trend for higher rates of union if a bone graft was used among patients treated with an in situ subtalar arthrodesis. Diabetic patients were 18.7 times more likely to have a malunion (P < 0.05). As a group, patients who have undergone subtalar arthrodesis can expect significantly worse functional outcomes compared with the Canadian and American normative populations. The poorest functional outcomes were observed among patients with diabetes. A trend for poorer outcome in bodily pain and general health (Short Form-36) was seen in workers' compensation patients. Certain patient variables are associated with poorer outcomes after subtalar fusion. The results of this study will enable surgeons to provide better information to patients in preoperative discussions with respect to patient expectations, outcomes, and the success of surgery.

Subtalare Arthrodese mit Calcaneus-Osteotomie

The amount of postraumatic deformities of the calcaneus after fracture is classified in 5 types (Type I-V). The bony situation includes in the simple group A malunions, in group B the more demanding nonunions and in Group C the worst cases with additional aseptic or septic necrosis of parts of the calcaneus. For type I with posttraumatic arthritis of the subtalar joint and without malalignement, an in situ-arthrodesis is suitable. Type II, with an additional varus- or valgus hind foot deformity, but especially in type III with additional loss of height and dorsal tilting of the talus a bone block distraction arthrodesis is required. Type IV includes, additionally to the pathology of type I to type III, a lateral translation of the calcaneus. This indirectly causes a severe hind foot valgus and an abutment of the posterior facet towards the lateral malleolus. This type needs osteotomy of the calcaneus through the old fracture surfaces, performed using a bilateral approach. Type V is very rare but the most difficult one for reconstructive surgery because the talus is additionally tilted out of the ankle joint. Therefore, in addition to the bilateral approach and calcaneal osteotomy, an anteromedian approach to the ankle joint is necessary. The surgical procedure in group A (malunion) is more or less the same like in group B (nonunion). Group C (aseptic / septic osteonecrosis) needs a preliminary radical necrectomy in a two stage reconstructive procedure.

Foot function after subtalar distraction bone block arthrodesis

Sir, I read with interest the article of Rammelt et al[1][1] in the July 2004 issue entitled ‘Foot function after subtalar distraction bone block arthrodesis’. There appear to be inconsistencies in the number of patients assessed. The authors give the following breakdown: excellent in nine