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.     

Combined subtalar distraction arthrodesis with peroneus brevis tenotomy for posttraumatic subtalar arthritis

BackgroundSubtalar distraction arthrodesis is advocated as a salvage procedure for isolated posttraumatic subtalar arthritis. This study aimed at evaluating combined subtalar distraction arthrodesis with peroneus brevis tenotomy for such cases.MethodsTwenty patients with isolated posttraumatic subtalar arthritis managed by combined subtalar distraction arthrodesis and peroneus brevis tenotomy were reviewed for a retrospective study. The American orthopaedic foot and ankle society [AOFAS] hindfoot scoring, talocalcaneal height [TCH], talocalcaneal angle [TCA] and heel valgus angle [HVA] were used for both pre and postoperative assessments.ResultsThe mean postoperative [TCH] [70.3 ± 1.9 mm] was statistically better than the preoperative value [64.7 ± 2.2 mm] [p < 0.001]. There was a statistically significant decrease in [HVA] [p < 0.001]. On the contrary, there was a statistically significant increase in both [AOFAS] hindfoot scoring and the [TCA] [p < 0.001].ConclusionsApplying this technique for isolated posttraumatic subtalar arthritis with peroneal tendinitis improved both lateral retromalleolar swelling and deformity correction.     

A comparison of outcomes of posterior arthroscopic subtalar arthrodesis with or without bone graft for treatment of subtalar arthritis

BackgroundIt remains unclear whether to perform a bone graft is necessary during posterior arthroscopic subtalar arthrodesis. The present research aimed to comparatively analyze the outcomes of arthroscopic subtalar arthrodesis through a 3-portal posterior approach with or without bone graft.MethodsA total of 93 patients with subtalar arthritis who underwent posterior arthroscopic subtalar arthrodesis were retrospectively examined. The patients were divided into two groups according to whether they received bone graft or not. The clinical outcomes were compared for analysis.ResultsAmong the 93 patients included, 53 received bone graft and 40 did not. The union rate and time to osseous fusion suggested no significant difference between the two groups. The improvement of clinical outcomes were comparable between the two groups at the final follow-up.ConclusionsIn the present study, bone graft could not effectively reduce the risk of nonunion and improve the outcome.     

距下关节融合与跟骨丘部矫形术治疗严重跟骨骨折畸形愈合

目的观察距下关节融合与跟骨丘部矫形术联合治疗严重跟骨骨折畸形愈合的临床疗效,探讨其手术适应证及优、缺点。方法1994年12月~2006年1月,对84例(96足)跟骨骨折畸形愈合的患者行距下关节融合与跟骨丘部矫形术,采取跟骨外侧手术入路,取自体松质骨植骨距下关节融合及内固定。其中男51例62足,女33例34足;年龄21~58岁,平均38.5岁。单侧72例,双侧12例。损伤原因:高处坠落伤57例,交通事故伤22例,其他5例。损伤至手术时间6~31个月,平均9.5个月。结果术后患者均获随访1~132个月。根据美国足踝外科协会足与踝关节评分标准,优31足,良53足,差12足,优良率87.5%。术后X线片示Bo。hler角、Gissane角、跟骨丘部高度及跟骨宽度与术前比较,差异均有统计学意义(P<0.01)。结论自体松质骨植骨距下关节融合与跟骨丘部矫形术是治疗跟骨骨折畸形愈合的一种有效方法,能恢复后足外形及功能,明显降低跟骨骨折步行疼痛后遗症的发生率。     

Subtalare Distraktionsarthrodese mit allogenem Knochenspan

Isolated subtalar disorders often require subtalar arthrodesis in combination with bone transplantation for the hindfoot reconstruction. Arthrodesis using an iliac crest bone graft is the standard procedure. We present results after subtalar arthrodesis using an allogenic bone graft. Clinical and radiological examinations were performed on 19 feet preoperatively, 6, 12 weeks and 12 months postoperatively. The AOFAS score of 35 (31-42) points preoperatively improved to 86 (78-90) points 12 months postoperatively. The VAS points of 6 (4-8) preoperatively decreased to 2 (1-2) points 12 months postoperatively. Osseous fusion could be acchieved in all cases. Using allogenic bone graft for subtalar arthrodesis leads to secure integration and avoids iliac crest bone graft morbidity.     

Posterior Approach for Subtalar Joint Distraction Arthrodesis by Compact External Fixation: A Technique Guide

Subtalar joint arthrodesis is a commonly used surgical procedure for the management of rearfoot pathologic features. We present a technique guide for a posterior incisional approach to subtalar joint arthrodesis for correction of a calcaneal deformity secondary to calcaneal fracture malunion. This technique uses a monolateral external fixation device for controlled distraction and intercallary allograft placement. In contrast to a standard lateral approach, this incision provides better visualization of the joint space, and the use of a distractor enhances access to the joint surfaces for fusion preparation and maintains alignment while internal fixation is applied. A 44-year-old male underwent isolated subtalar joint arthrodesis to repair a malunion of a nonsurgically managed calcaneal fracture sustained 1 year before the surgical intervention. Controlled distraction was applied using a Hoffmann^® Compact? MRI external fixation device. This device maintained distraction and tibial–calcaneal alignment until placement of the allograft–bone marrow aspirate. The use of external fixation is a viable option for distraction arthrodesis in subtalar joint fusions. It facilitates frontal plane deformity correction. We have described the surgical technique and presented a case in which the posterior approach with distraction was successfully used in subtalar joint arthrodesis. At 12 weeks postoperatively, serial radiographs displayed incorporation of the graft, with distraction maintained at the subtalar joint arthrodesis site. At the 3-month follow-up visit, the patient had successfully transitioned to weightbearing in a CAM walker without any complications.     

Subtalar joint preparation using the Two Portal posterior arthroscopic technique versus the sinus tarsi Open approach: A cadaver study

BackgroundSubtalar fusion is the treatment of choice for subtalar arthritis when conservative management fails. The procedure can be performed arthroscopically or through the open lateral sinus tarsi (LST) approach. The arthroscopic technique is less invasive and is associated with rapid recovery, but it is more technically challenging. One of the most important aspects of fusion is adequate preparation of the joint via denudation of articular cartilage. This study compares the efficacy of subtalar joint preparation between the lateral sinus tarsi approach and the posterior two-portal arthroscopic technique using cadaveric specimens.Materials and MethodsNineteen below-knee fresh-frozen cadaver specimens were used. The subtalar joints of nine specimens were prepared through the LST approach, while ten were prepared arthroscopically. After preparation, all ankles were dissected at the subtalar joint and photographs were taken of the posterior facets of the calcaneus and talus. Total and prepared surface areas of the articular surfaces for both approaches were measured using ImageJ software and compared.ResultsThe LST technique resulted in significantly greater percent preparation of the posterior facet of the calcaneus, as well as of the subtalar joint as a whole. Overall, 92.3% of the subtalar joint surfaces (talus and calcaneus combined) were prepared using the LST technique, compared to 80.4% using the arthroscopic technique (p = 0.010). The posterior facet of the calcaneus was 94.0% prepared using the open technique, while only 78.6% prepared using the arthroscopic technique (p = 0.005).ConclusionThe LST approach for subtalar arthrodesis provides superior articular preparation compared to the two-portal posterior arthroscopic technique. Given that joint preparation is a critical component of fusion, maximizing prepared surface area is desirable and the open approach may be more efficacious for fusion. When using the arthroscopic approach, it may be advisable to use an accessory portal if there is poor visualization or limited access to the joint space secondary to severe arthritis.Level of EvidenceV     

Comparison of Initial Compression Force Across the Subtalar Joint by Two Different Screw Fixation Techniques

The purpose of this study was to compare the magnitude of compressive force across the posterior facet of the subtalar joint between 2 different screw orientations in a simulated subtalar fusion model fixated with cannulated 7.3-mm screws. Eight paired fresh, frozen cadaver feet were used. Before testing, the bone mineral density of the calcanei and tali was measured with dual energy x-ray absorptiometry to ensure comparable bone mineral density. The paired cadaver calcanei and tali were noted to have less than .05 g/cm(2) difference in bone mineral density. The paired specimens were each randomly assigned to 1 of 2 methods of fixation across the subtalar joint: a plantar approach, where the screw was oriented vertically from the plantar aspect of the calcaneus, distal to the tuberosity; and a posterior approach, where the screw was oriented obliquely from the posterior calcaneal tuberosity. A load-sensing washer was placed under the cancellous screw head before insertion of the screw to measure the magnitude of the compression force across the simulated fusion site. The mean compression force for the posterior-to-anterior approach was 581 N, with a standard deviation of 242 N. The mean force for the plantar-to-superior approach was 604 N, with a standard deviation of 276 N. The compression force obtained by the 2 approaches was not significantly different (P = .74). The plantar-to-superior fixation technique represents an alternative subtalar arthrodesis technique to the posterior-to-anterior approach, potentially allowing one to revise a previously failed arthrodesis when the standard fixation techniques cannot be applied.     

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. LEVEL OF CLINICAL EVIDENCE: 4.     

经后外侧入路距下关节撑开植骨融合治疗陈旧性跟骨骨折畸形愈合

目的评价经后外侧人路行距下关节撑开植骨融合术治疗陈旧性跟骨骨折畸形愈合的临床疗效。方法回顾性研究自2009-03-2012—10收洽的采用后外侧人路距下关节撑开植骨融合术治疗且获得完整随访的27例陈旧性跟骨骨折畸形愈合患者。定期随访观察术后切口愈合、骨折愈合及内固定情况,比较手术前后距骨跟骨角、距骨第1跖骨角、美国足踝外科协会（AOFAS）踝与后足评分。结果27例术后获平均20（12～36）个月随访,切口均一期愈合,无皮缘坏死、切口感染及内固定物、跟骨骨质外露发生。术后4～6个月X线片显示27例融合处均骨性愈合。距骨跟骨角由术前平均（15．8±3．0）°改善至术后平均（24．8±1．9）°,距骨第1跖骨角由术前平均（16．9±3.2）°改善至术后平均（5．6±1．9）°,AOFAS评分由术前平均（33．9±7．9）分提高至术后平均（84．9±7．5）分,差异均有统计学意义（P〈0．05）。结论跟骨后外侧人路可清楚显露距下关节,能在直视下对距下关节面进行彻底清理,撑开植骨矫正跟骨内、外翻畸形,恢复足弓,矫正或减轻跟骨骨折畸形愈合的主要病理改变,有效地改善症状,减少切口并发症,临床疗效满意。     

Range of motion of foot joints following total ankle replacement and subtalar fusion

BackgroundIn severe cases of ankle and subtalar arthritis, arthrodesis of the subtalar joint is performed in combination with ankle arthroplasty. In these special cases gait analysis reveals real motion at the replaced tibiotalar joint.MethodsTwenty-three patients affected by ankle and subtalar arthritis, treated either with a 3-component or a 2-component prosthesis in combination with subtalar arthrodesis, were clinically evaluated preoperatively and at a minimum of 1-year follow-up. Gait analysis was performed postoperatively using a multi-segment foot protocol. Foot kinematics were compared to corresponding data from a healthy control group.ResultsClinical scores significantly improved from preoperative to follow-up. The clinically measured passive ankle dorsiflexion/plantarflexion significantly improved at the follow-up. Patients’ normalized walking speed and stride length were significantly lower than those in control. With exception of the ankle frontal-plane motion, sagittal-plane mobility of foot joints was about 50% than that in healthy joints.ConclusionsImprovement in clinical scores was found for both prostheses. Normal spatio-temporal parameters were not restored. In these patients, fusion of the subtalar joint appeared to be compensated by larger frontal-plane motion at the tibiotalar joint.Level of evidenceLevel III- retrospective comparative study.The study was approved by the local Ethics Committee as protocol MAT (protocol registration at clinicaltrials.gov NCT03356951).     

Arthrodesis as salvage for calcaneal malunions

Even with greater emphasis on anatomic reduction, outcomes after calcaneal fractures continue to be unsatisfactory in many patients. Lateral wall impingement, subtalar arthrosis with pain and stiffness, nerve compression syndromes, and hindfoot malalignment all can cause disabling symptoms. If conservative treatment fails to relieve symptoms, subtalar arthrodesis can provide a painless, stable hindfoot in most patients. For severe deformity with anterior ankle impingement and loss of the talar angle of declination, distraction bone block arthrodesis through a posterior approach is preferred.     

Non-union of calcaneum – A rare complication of calcaneal fracture – A case report with brief review of literature

Intra-articular fractures of calcaneum are known to be difficult to manage and lead to multiple complications including subtalar arthritis and malunion. However, non-union of calcaneum is rarely encountered. Only a total of six studies reporting on 12 patients could be found on reviewing the available literature (English language only). One such case of non-union of calcaneal fracture and its successful management is being reported in this case report. In addition, extremely limited literature available on calcaneal non-union is also briefly reviewed. Role of subtalar arthrodesis with internal fixation of fracture and bone grafting for successful management of this rare complication is highlighted along with the possibility of under-reporting of this relatively unknown complication.     

Which surgical approach is optimal for joint preparation in talonavicular fusion — A cadaver study

BackgroundFusion of the talonavicular joint has proven challenging in literature. The optimal surgical approach for talonavicular arthrodesis is still uncertain. This study compares the amount of physical joint preparation between dorsal and medial approaches to the talonavicular joint.MethodsTwenty fresh frozen cadaver specimens were randomly assigned to receive either a dorsal or medial operative approach to the talonavicular joint. The joint surface was prepared, and the joint was disarticulated. Image analysis, using ImageJ, was performed by two blinded reviewers to assess the joint surface preparation and this was compared by surgical approach.ResultsThe dorsal approach had a higher median percentage of talar and total talonavicular joint surface area prepared (75% vs. 59% (p = .007) and 82% vs. 70% (p = .005)). Irrespective of approach, the talus was significantly more difficult to prepare than the navicular (62% vs 88% (p = .001)).ConclusionThe dorsal approach provides superior talonavicular joint preparation. The lateral ¼th of the talar head was the most difficult surface to prepare, and surgeons performing double or triple arthrodesis may prepare the lateral talar head from the lateral approach.Level of evidenceLevel V.     

A Posterior 3-Portal Arthroscopic Approach for Isolated Subtalar Arthrodesis

Arthroscopic subtalar arthrodesis was developed to improve on open methods of fusion. A posterior 3-portal arthroscopic approach with the patient in the prone position provides a new and optimal method for isolated subtalar arthrodesis. It facilitates safe access to the posterior talocalcaneal facet. The posterolateral portal was established using blunt dissection. The 3-mm, 30° arthroscope was inserted, the posterolateral portal was made, and synovectomy carried out. A large 4-mm arthroscope was used to improve fluid flow. The third portal was then established approximately 1 cm proximal and 1 cm posterior to the tip of the lateral malleolus. This portal was used for distraction by inserting a large blunt trocar into the joint. Most of the procedure was performed with the arthroscope in the posterolateral portal and the instruments posteromedial. Allograft was inserted through the posterolateral portal. Fixation was achieved using 2 cannulated 6.5- or 7.3-mm cancellous screws, inserted under fluoroscopic control. Postoperatively, patients were assigned to non-weight bearing cast immobilization with crutch ambulation for 6 weeks, followed by gradual weight bearing until radiographs showed union. Preliminary results have shown high patient satisfaction, an excellent fusion rate, and less postoperative morbidity than with open subtalar arthrodesis.     

Subtalar distraction arthrodesis using interpositional frozen structural allograft

BACKGROUND: 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. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 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. RESULTS: 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. CONCLUSION: 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 OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, prospective case series.     

距下关节融合钢板内固定治疗Sanders IV型跟骨骨折

目的总结距下关节融合钢板内固定术对SandersIV型跟骨骨折的手术经验。方法对16例(17侧)SandersIV型跟骨骨折在行切开复位的同时根据粉碎程度行距下关节融合跟骨钢板内固定,疗效采用AOFANS评分标准。结果16例获得6~47个月随访(平均19.7个月),AOFANS评分平均为84.6分。结论对于SandersIV型跟骨骨折根据其粉碎程度可行距下关节融合跟骨钢板内固定术。     

距下关节融合术治疗粉碎性跟骨关节内骨折预后的临床研究

目的通过观察距下关节融合术治疗严重跟骨关节内粉碎性骨折的临床预后,探讨该手术适应证及优、缺点。方法1999年10月～2004年6月,对69例78足严重跟骨关节内粉碎性骨折患者进行距下关节融合术,采取跟骨外侧手术入路,取自体松质骨植骨距下关节融合。结果58例65足获得随访,随访时间8～31个月,平均19.8个月。术后根据美国足踝学会HindfootScores评分:优良率达到87.69%。结论自体松质骨植骨距下关节融合术是治疗跟骨关节内粉碎性骨折的一种有效方法,能恢复后足外形及功能,但不能完全缓解后足疼痛。     

Osteosynthesis or primary arthrodesis for displaced intra-articular calcaneus fractures Sanders type IV – A systematic review

BackgroundDisplaced intra-articular calcaneus fractures (DIACF) Sanders type IV represent a challenge in its management and questions remain about the best treatment option available. This study aimed to compare the outcomes of primary subtalar arthrodesis (PSTA) and osteosynthesis in these fractures.MethodsStudies concerning DIACF Sanders type IV, from 2005 to 2020 were systematically reviewed. Only studies evaluating functional outcomes with American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society ankle-hindfoot (AOFAS) score were admitted allowing for results comparison.ResultsIn total, 9 studies met the inclusion criteria. These reported on the results of 142 patients, from which 41 submitted to PSTA and 101 to osteosynthesis, with an average follow-up period over 2 years. We found a significant moderate negative correlation between the reported AOFAS score and the Coleman Methodology Score obtained. Late subtalar arthrodesis was 13.63% of the total osteosynthesis performed.ConclusionsClinical outcomes after PSTA and osteosynthesis, for the treatment of Sanders type IV fractures, do not seem very different, yet careful data interpretation is crucial. Additional powered randomized controlled trials are necessary to assess which surgical strategy is better.