Retrospective analysis of the survivability of absorbable versus nonabsorbable subtalar joint arthroereisis implants

Clinical outcomes of subtalar arthroereisis for the treatment of stage 1 flexible progressive collapsing foot deformity

BACKGROUND

The use of subtalar arthroereisis as an adjunct to the surgical treatment of stage 1 flexible progressive collapsing foot deformity (PCFD) is controversial. The aim was to investigate the clinical outcomes and report the implant removal rate of subtalar arthroereisis as an adjunct for stage 1 PCFD.

METHODS

A retrospective study of 212 consecutive feet undergoing operative management of stage 1 PCFD with adjunctive subtalar arthroereisis between October 2010 and April 2018. The primary outcome was the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS). Secondary outcomes included Foot and Ankle Disability Index (FADI), Euroqol-5D-5L Index and implant removal rate.

RESULTS

Post-operative clinical FAOS outcomes were collected for 153 feet (72.2%). At mean 2.5-year follow-up, the mean ± standard deviation FAOS for each domain was as follows; Pain: 81.5 ± 18.5, Symptoms: 79.5 ± 12.9, Activities of Daily Living: 82.5 ± 15.4 and Quality of Life: 64.2 ± 23.7. EQ-5D-5L Index was 0.884 ± 0.152. Pre-operative scores were available for 20 of these feet demonstrating a statistically significant improvement in all FAOS, FADI and EQ-5D-5L domains (p < 0.05). The implant removal rate for persistent sinus tarsi pain was 48.1% (n = 102).

CONCLUSION

Use of a subtalar arthroereisis implant as an adjunct to conventional procedures in stage 1 flexible PCFD can result in significant improvement in pain and function. Patients should be counselled as to the relatively frequent rate of subsequent implant removal.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

Subtalar arthroereisis post-operative management in children: A literature review

PURPOSE

Subtalar arthroereisis is a minimally-invasive technique for the treatment of flexible flatfoot. Some issues regarding the procedure are still debated, such as post-operative management. The aim of this study is to offer a review of the pertaining literature to identify current post-operative protocols and describe possible differences among them.

METHODS

We searched the PubMed database for all papers related to subtalar arthroereisis in children specifying the post-operative protocols. After reviewing all studies according to excluding criteria, 50 articles were selected for analysis.

RESULTS

Based on the literature review, different post-operative protocols emerged in the treatment of patients undergoing subtalar arthroereisis, in particular regarding length of hospital stay, type and duration of immobilization, weight-bearing management, adopted rehabilitation scheme, sport resumption and implant removal.

CONCLUSIONS

The most important finding was the existence of a wide variety in post-operative management after subtalar arthroereisis in children, thus confirming that no clear consensus still exists in this field.

Subtalar arthroereisis combined with medial soft tissue reconstruction in treating pediatric flexible flatfoot with accessory navicular

PURPOSE

Accessory navicular is accompanied by the deformity of valgus flexible flatfoot. The surgical treatment includes reconstruction of insertion of posterior tibial tendon following resection of the accessory navicular. However, this treatment could not correct completely the deformity of valgus flexible flatfoot. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of subtalar arthroereisis combined with medial soft tissue reconstruction in treating 8-14-year-old flexible flatfoot patients with accessory navicular.

METHODS

Clinical data of 35 pediatric flatfoot patients (with 50 feet) with accessory navicular who underwent subtalar arthroereisis and medial soft tissue reconstruction between April 2013 and September 2018 were analyzed retrospectively. Anteroposterior, lateral, and hindfoot alignment radiological images were measured in the weight-bearing position, and visual analog scale (VAS), American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot scale, and satisfaction degree were evaluated. Also, surgical complications were recorded.

RESULTS

The average follow-up time of the patients was 30 ± 9.3 months. None of the patients presented wound complications, and no implant loosening was detected. The AOFAS and VAS scores improved significantly (P < 0.001). Radiological parameters, such as the talar first metatarsal angle and talonavicular coverage angle on anteroposterior foot view, Meary's angle and calcaneal pitch angle on the lateral view, and calcaneus valgus angle on hindfoot alignment view improved significantly (P < 0.001). Postoperative complications were observed in three patients.

CONCLUSION

Subtalar arthroereisis combined with medial soft tissue reconstruction significantly alleviated pain and improved the functions in pediatric and adolescent flexible flatfoot patients with accessory navicular; also, the radiological manifestations and functions improved.

The Effect of Customized and Silicon Insoles on Mid- and Hindfoot in Adult Flexible Pes Planovalgus

BACKGROUND

Flexible flat foot or pes planovalgus is a common foot deformity, and silicone and customized insole are commonly used as a non-operative treatment modality of flexible planovalgus. However, there are inadequate data and limited evidence available regarding the immediate effects of their use in midfoot and hindfoot of adults. The aim of this study is to quantify and compare the radiological parameters immediately on weightbearing with silicon and customized insoles and without them to assess the effect on midfoot and hindfoot of the flexible planovalgus in adults.

METHODS

A total number of 11 (8 females and 3 males) subjects with flexible pes planovalgus deformity without any other foot deformity were included in the study. Each patient was assessed three times in a random sequence without and with use of either silicon insoles or customized insole. The radiographic parameters without insole, with silicon insole, and with customized insole conditions were calculated using online available computer software Kinovea.

RESULTS

One-way ANOVA analysis was performed between groups (without insole, with silicone insole and with customized insole). The hindfoot parameters depicted that calcaneal inclination angle (CIA) was significant increased (P = 0.000) and talar declination angle (TDA) was significantly decreased (P = 0.003) only with the use of customized insole compared to without insole. The midfoot parameters depicted that the first metatarsal angle (FMA) and talonavicular coverage angle (TCA) were significantly lower with customized insole (P = 0.00) as compared to other two groups and significantly lower with silicone insole (P = 0.00) as compared to without insole group.

CONCLUSION

The results imply that the compressibility of the insole material affects the forefoot and hindfoot biomechanics differently. This study concludes that silicone insole affects only the midfoot which bears 45% of bodyweight and customized insole affects both midfoot and more importantly the hindfoot which bears 55% of bodyweight.

Subtalar Arthroereisis as an Adjunct Procedure Improves Forefoot Abduction in Stage IIb Adult-Acquired Flatfoot Deformity

BACKGROUND

Our aims were (a) to determine whether subtalar arthroereisis (STA) as adjunct procedure improved radiographic correction of stage IIb adult-acquired flexible flatfoot deformity (AAFD); (b) to assess the STA-related complication rate.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of 22 feet (21 patients) diagnosed with stage IIb AAFD treated by medializing calcaneal osteotomy (MCO), flexor digitorum longus (FDL) transfer, spring ligament (SL) repair with or without Cotton osteotomy and with or without STA in a single institution was carried out. Seven measurements were recorded on pre- and postoperative (minimum 24 weeks) radiographs by 2 observers and repeated twice by 1 observer. Inter- and intraobserver reliabilities were assessed. The association of demographic (gender, side, age, body mass index) and surgical variables (Cotton, STA) with radiographic change was tested with univariate analysis followed by a multivariable regression model.

RESULTS

Excellent inter- and intraobserver reliabilities were demonstrated for all measurements (intraclass correlation coefficient range, 0.75-0.99). Gender, side, Cotton osteotomy, and STA were included in the multivariable analysis. Regression showed that STA was the only predictor of change in talonavicular coverage angle (TNCA) (R² = 0.31; P = .03) and in calcaneo-fifth metatarsal angle (CFMA) (R² = 0.40; P = .02) on dorsoplantar view. STA was associated to a greater change in TNCA by 10.1° and in CFMA by 5°. Four patients out of 12 STA complained of sinus tarsi pain after STA, and removal of the implant resolved symptoms in 3 of them.

CONCLUSION

In this series, STA as an adjunct procedure to MCO, FDL transfer, SL repair in the treatment of stage IIb AAFD led to improvement in correction of forefoot abduction. STA-related complication and removal rates were 33%.

LEVELS OF EVIDENCE

Level IV: Retrospective cohort study.

Results of the Italian Pediatric Orthopedics Society juvenile flexible flatfoot survey: diagnosis and treatment options

The objectives of this study were to collect and analyze current diagnosis and treatment options of symptomatic flexible flatfoot (FFF), as well as to identify treatment expectations, among the members of the Italian Pediatric Orthopedics Society (SITOP). Diagnosis and treatment preferences were recorded according to a web-based survey. The survey was divided into six main sections: (1) general clinical parameters; (2) foot aspects; (3) X-ray angles (or lines); (4) expectations; (5) standard clinical assessment; (6) treatment options. One hundred and ten out of 248 SITOP members answered to the questionnaire. Age (85.5%), pain at the level of the plantar arch or fascia (61.8%), fatigue (59.1%) were the clinical parameters of crucial importance. Heel valgus (85.4%), flexibility (61.8%) and forefoot supination (47.3%) were identified as the most important foot aspects. Ninety-two responders (83.6%) identified the 'improved ability to walk longer without symptoms or discomfort' as the principal treatment expectation. Pain evaluated through the visual analog scale (VAS) was considered crucial in 31.8% of cases. All respondents confirmed they also treat patients with FFF surgically; in particular, 97.3% of SITOP affiliates declare to perform arthroereisis followed by lateral column lengthening (29.1%) and medializing calcaneal osteotomy (9.1%). Although in this survey heterogeneous findings for diagnosis and treatment of patients with symptomatic FFF within SITOP members were found, a large preference for age, heel valgus, flexibility as clinical aspects and parameters, as well as nonoperative treatment and arthroereisis, was reported.

Is subtalar arthroereisis a good procedure in adult-acquired flatfoot? A systematic review of the literature

INTRODUCTION

The aim of the present systematic literature review was to determine results and complications in subtalar arthroereisis for stage-2 adult-acquired flatfoot.

METHOD

A search of the PubMed, Medline, CINAHL, Cochrane and Embase databases used MeSH terms "arthroereisis" AND "flatfoot" OR "adult-acquired flatfoot" OR "pes planovalgus" OR "pes planus". Two of the authors analyzed 125 articles. After reading titles and Abstracts, 105 articles were read in full text and their references were analyzed. Finally, 12 articles were selected and divided into 2 groups: isolated and associated arthroereisis.

RESULTS

Improvement in functional scores was greater in associated arthroereisis. Whether isolated or associated, arthroereisis achieved radiologic correction. However, the rate of complications was high, mainly concerning tarsal sinus pain.

CONCLUSION

Subtalar arthroereisis for stage-2 adult-acquired flatfoot is rarely performed in isolation. When it is associated to other procedures, good radiologic and clinical results can be expected.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

Flexible Progressive Collapsing Foot Deformity: Is There Any Role for Arthroereisis in the Adult Patient?

Over the last two decades there is a growing interest in the adult literature for subtalar joint arthroereisis. Parallel to this interest, there have been improvements in the design and biomechanics of the implant, although the main indication of subtalar joint arthroereisis in adults is not clear. Most studies show significant improvement in postoperative clinical scores and visual analog scores. Sinus tarsi pain, being the most common complication, is the main determinant of clinical satisfaction. This review focuses on the role and complications of subtalar joint arthroereisis in the adult population.

Arthroereisis in juvenile flexible flatfoot: Which device should we implant? A systematic review of literature published in the last 5 years

BACKGROUND

Flexible flatfoot (FFF) is a very common condition in children, characterized by the loss of the medial arch and by an increase in the support base with valgus of the hindfoot. Arthroereisis (AR) procedures are widely performed corrective surgeries and are classified as subtalar AR and calcaneo-stop (CS).

AIM

We investigated the literature published in the last 5 years with the aim of providing an update on the evidence related to AR treatment in FFF patients. We report the principal findings of subtalar AR and CS procedures concerning clinical and radiological outcomes and complication rates in the general population, young athletes, and obese people according to material device.

METHODS

Following the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses, a systematic review of studies published in the past 5 years and included the PubMed and Science Direct databases was performed on May 6, 2020. The research string used was (pediatric OR children OR Juvenile NOT adult) AND (flexible NOT rigid) AND (flat foot OR pes planus) AND (calcaneo-Stop OR arthroereisis OR subtalar extra-articular screw OR SESA OR subtalar arthroereisis OR endosinotarsal). The risk of bias assessment was performed using the Dutch checklist form for prognosis.

RESULTS

A total of 47 articles were found. Ultimately, after reading the full text and checking reference lists, we selected 17 articles that met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. A total of 1864 FFFs were identified. Eight studies concerned the subtalar AR (47.1%) and nine concerning CS (52.9%). The average age of patients at start of treatment was 11.8 years, the average follow-up of the studies was 71.9 mo (range 29.1-130). Globally, complications occurred in 153 of the 1864 FFF treated, with a rate of 8.2%.

CONCLUSION

Both AR procedures are valid surgical techniques for treating FFF. Surgeon experience, implant cost, and cosmetic correction are the most common considerations included in the orthopedic device decision-making process. In obese patients, the subtalar AR is not recommended. In adolescents who need to improve sports performance, the CS screw had better results compared with other implants.

Subtalar Arthroereisis for Flexible Flatfoot in Children-Clinical, Radiographic and Pedobarographic Outcome Comparing Three Different Methods

Subtalar arthroereises (STA) is a minimally invasive and reversible surgery to correct symptomatic flexible flatfoot (FFF) in children. Various techniques were described either applying expandable sinus tarsi implants or lateral calcaneus stop screws. Studies comparing the outcome of STA with different devices are rare. This retrospective single-center cohort study analyzes the results of STA using three different implants. 113 STA were performed in 73 consecutive patients (28 females). Mean age at surgery was 10.8 years (range 5-16). Mean follow-up was 29.0 months (range 1-111). In 21 feet the non-absorbable Kalix^® endorthesis and in 56 feet the absorbable Giannini endorthesis were applied. Subtalar extraarticular screw arthroereises (SESA) was conducted in 36 feet. Clinical, radiographic and pedobarographic parameters were analyzed. No intraoperative complications were observed. All three procedures achieved comparable improvements of the clinical, radiographic and pedobarographic parameters. The mean foot function index (FFI) improved from 36.4 (range 12-63) to 22.8 (range 2-55). The mean preoperative calcaneal inclination angle and the lateral talocalcaneal angle improved from 9.5° (range 0-22) and 42.3° (range 21-62) to 12.8° (range 0-26) and 37.6° (range 15-56), respectively. Pedobarographically determined values of the arch index, the medial midfoot contact area and the medial forefoot peak pressure decreased. In contrast to SESA (1/36, 3%), a higher incidence of implant-related complications was observed using Kalix^® (6/21, 29%) and Giannini (10/56, 8%) sinus tarsi implants. Peroneal muscle contractures only occurred in the SESA group (4/36, 11%). Premature removal due to treatment-related complications was necessary in 6/21 Kalix^® implants (29%), 4/56 Giannini implants (7%) and 4/36 SESA implants (11%). Implant choice for treatment of painful FFF in children with STA seems to play a subordinate role. Clinical, radiographic and pedobarographic outcomes are comparable between the applied implants. Surgeons and patients should be aware of the different spectrum of implant-related complications. Treatment can be reliably monitored by radiation-free pedobarography providing dynamic information about the deformity.

Clinical and Radiological Outcomes of Subtalar Kalix II Arthroereisis for a Symptomatic Pediatric Flexible Flatfoot

Background. The purpose of this study is to evaluate functional and radiological outcomes of subtalar arthroereisis in the treatment of symptomatic pediatric flexible flatfeet. Methods. A total of 16 patients (26 feet) were treated with a Kalix II as subtalar motion blocker between 2009 and 2014. Calcaneal pitch (CP) and Meary's angle (MA) were measured on radiographs preoperatively, directly postoperatively, and at follow-up 47 ± 17 (range 19-79) months. Patient satisfaction surveys were used to assess functional outcome and patient satisfaction. Results. Surgery was performed mostly for pain, walking problems, or a combination of both at a mean age of 12.5 ± 1.5 (range 10-15) years. Symptoms were relieved in 62.5% of patients in the postoperative phase and increased to 68.75% at follow-up. A statistically significant increase in CP of 2.8° and decrease in MA of 14.0° was observed directly postoperatively, which persisted during the follow-up period irrespective of Kalix removal. Revision surgery was necessary in 6 cases (23%) because of arthroereisis migration. Conclusion. Subtalar Kalix II arthroereisis significantly reduced clinical symptoms and improved the CP and MA directly postoperatively, which persisted during follow-up, irrespective of Kalix removal. Therefore, subtalar arthroereisis is a considerable intervention to reduce symptoms in children with symptomatic flexible flatfeet.Levels of Evidence: Level IV: Case series.

Endosinotarsal device exerts a better postoperative correction in Meary's angle than exosinotarsal screw from a meta-analysis in pediatric flatfoot

For pediatric flexible flatfoot, the subtalar extra-articular screw arthroereisis (SESA) and endosinotarsal device are the most popular techniques in current practice. Nevertheless, scarce literature is available comparing the outcomes between these two techniques. Thus, we aimed to provide a meta-analysis for the radiographic and clinical outcomes, respectively. A systemic search for correction of pediatric flexible flatfoot using subtalar arthroereisis was conducted mainly in Pubmed and Scopus, and the search was completed on 31 Dec., 2019. The standardized mean differences (SMD) of postoperative versus preoperative calcaneal pitch and Meary’s angle were defined as the primary outcomes, whereas the preoperative versus posteoperative AOFAS (American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society) as the secondary outcome. The meta-analysis included 12 comparative studies comprising 2063 feet in total. The quantitative analysis showed a marked improvement in Meary’s angle of endosinotarsal cone implant group (SMD: 4.298; 95% CI 2.706–5.889) than exosinotarsal screw group (SMD: 1.264; 95% CI 0.650–1.877). But no significant difference was noted between both groups in calcaneal pitch and AOFAS. The exosinotarsal screw and endosinotarsal device are both effective arthroereisis implant for pediatric flexible flatfoot. While considering the correction of Meary’s angle, the endosinotarsal device is better than exosinotarsal screw.

Short- to Mid-Term Outcomes Following the Use of an Arthroereisis Implant as an Adjunct for Correction of Flexible, Acquired Flatfoot Deformity in Adults

BACKGROUND

The use of an arthroereisis implant for the treatment of adolescent flatfoot deformity has been described. However, data that address the outcomes of patients treated with an arthroereisis implant in adults are limited. The purpose of this study was to investigate the radiographic and clinical outcomes and complications following the use of a subtalar arthroereisis implant as an adjunct for correction acquired flatfoot deformity secondary to posterior tibial tendon dysfunction.

METHODS

A retrospective case-control study was performed querying all patients undergoing surgical flatfoot correction between January 1, 2010 and January 1, 2015. The experimental group included patients undergoing arthroereisis augmentation at the time of flatfoot correction. Patients undergoing the same flatfoot correction without the use of an arthroereisis implant were used as controls. Radiographic measurements were evaluated preoperatively and at final radiographic follow-up and included talonavicular (TN) coverage angle, and lateral talar-first metatarsal angle (T1MA). Patient-reported outcomes were assessed using preoperative visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores and postoperative Short Form-36, VAS, and satisfaction at final orthopedic follow-up.

RESULTS

A total of 15 patients underwent flatfoot correction and were augmented with an arthroereisis implant and were matched with 30 controls. Postoperative, mid-term T1MA and regional analysis was found to be improved in the experimental group versus control. Patients undergoing adjunct subtalar arthroereisis demonstrated an increased likelihood of achieving radiographically normal talonavicular coverage <7° compared with our control group at follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

The adjunct use of an arthroereisis implant resulted in improved and maintained radiographic and clinical measurements in patients undergoing stage II flatfoot.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

These results suggest utility of a subtalar arthroereisis implant as an adjunct to flatfoot correction with little additional risk of harm to the patient.

LEVELS OF EVIDENCE

Level III: Case-control study.

Bioabsorbable Calcaneo-Stop Implant for the Treatment of Flexible Flatfoot: A Retrospective Cohort Study at a Minimum Follow-Up of 4 Years

Arthroereisis of the subtalar joint is a common surgical technique in Europe for the management of flexible flatfoot in the pediatric population. In most cases, it is performed using a calcaneo-stop metallic screw. Despite the good clinical results, screw removal is always advised after 2 to 3 years. The use of a bioabsorbable screw might overcome the need for a second operation to remove a nonabsorbable device. We report the results of a biodegradable calcaneo-stop screw at a minimum of 4 years of follow-up. Eighty-eight procedures were performed on 44 children. All patients were clinically and radiologically evaluated preoperatively and at a minimum 4-year follow-up period. Patient satisfaction and plantar collapse using Viladot's classification were recorded. Meary's talus-first metatarsal angle and talocalcaneal angle were measured on radiographs preoperatively and at the last follow-up visit. The presence of the device at the last follow-up examination was assessed by magnetic resonance imaging. The mean follow-up duration was 56 months. Of the 44 patients, 33 (75%) reported excellent clinical outcomes, 9 (20.5%) good outcomes, and 2 (4.5%) poor. Foot print improvement was registered for all patients. The mean Meary's talus-first metatarsal angle had improved from 160.6° ± 7.7° preoperatively to 170.6° ± 6.5° at the last follow-up visit (p < .001). The talocalcaneal angle had decreased from 39.9° ± 5.2° preoperatively to 29.4° ± 4° at the last follow-up examination (p < .001). At the 4-year follow-up point, the implant could be seen to have almost completely biodegraded on magnetic resonance imaging. Two screw breakages occurred. The bioabsorbable calcaneo-stop screw seems to be an effective solution for flexible flatfoot in pediatric patients. Also, owing to its biodegradable composition, the need of a second operation for implant removal will not always be necessary.

Bioabsorbable implants for subtalar arthroereisis in pediatric flatfoot

Flatfoot is a common condition in growing-age patients. Despite its common presentation, nowadays surgical indications and treatments are still debated. Arthroereisis is a widely used technique, and several implants designs have been proposed over time. Despite the good results shown in the literature, the main drawback of these techniques has always been the need for a second surgery for implant removal. Bioabsorbable devices have been introduced to overcome this necessity.Correct approach to the patient, indications and contraindications and available studies on bioabsorbable implants for subtalar arthroereisis in pediatric flatfoot were analyzed in this narrative review. Even if only a few studies have been published in the literature, bioabsorbable implants showed good clinical results comparable to non-absorbable implants and with a rare necessity for implant removal or revision. When correct indications and proper surgical technique are followed, arthroereisis with bioabsorbable implants appears to be an effective solution for the treatment of pediatric flexible flatfoot.

Subtalar Arthroereisis Implant Removal in Adults: A Prospective Study of 100 Patients

Subtalar joint arthroereisis (STA) can be used in the management of adult acquired flatfoot deformity (AAFD), including posterior tibial tendon dysfunction. The procedure is quick and normally causes little morbidity; however, the implant used for STA often needs to be removed because of sinus tarsi pain. The present study evaluated the rate and risk factors for removal of the implant used for STA in adults treated for AAFD/posterior tibial tendon dysfunction, including patient age, implant size, and the use of endoscopic gastrocnemius recession. Patients undergoing STA for adult acquired flatfoot were prospectively studied from 1996 to 2012. The inclusion criteria were an arthroereisis procedure for AAFD/posterior tibial tendon dysfunction, age >18 years, and a follow-up period of ≥2 years. The exclusion criteria were hindfoot arthritis, age <18 years, and a follow-up period of <2 years. A total of 100 patients (average age 53 years) underwent 104 STA procedures. The mean follow-up period was 6.5 (range 2 to 17) years. The overall incidence of implant removal was 22.1%. Patient age was not a risk factor for implant removal (p = .09). However, implant size was a factor for removal, with 11-mm implants removed significantly more frequently (p = .02). Endoscopic gastrocnemius recession did not exert any influence on the rate of implant removal (p = .19). After STA for AAFD, 22% of the implants were removed. No significant difference was found in the incidence of removal according to patient age or endoscopic gastrocnemius recession. However, a significant difference was found for implant size, with 11-mm implants explanted most frequently.

Surgical treatment of hallux valgus associated with flexible flatfoot during growing age

PURPOSE

During growth, hallux valgus could present associated with flatfoot. Considering the current disagreement about correction of hallux valgus during growth and the lack of reports about simultaneous correction of hallux valgus associated with flexible flatfoot, we present simultaneous treatment of both deformities during growth combining subtalar arthroeresis and SERI first metatarsal osteotomy, reporting results at an average five-year follow-up.

METHODS

Thirty-two children (64 feet, age range 8-12 years) affected by hallux valgus associated with flexible flatfoot underwent surgical treatment combining SERI first metatarsal osteotomy and subtalar arthroereisis with bioabsorbable endorthotic implant. Clinical evaluation was summarized with AOFAS score, and standard standing radiographs were performed.

RESULTS

AOFAS score ranged from 86 ± 2 to 98 ± 2 (hindfoot) and from 80 ± 4 to 98 ± 2 (forefoot). HVA ranged from 21° ± 2 to 5° ± 2, IMA from 14° ± 2 to 7° ± 2, DMAA from 18° ± 2 to 2° ± 2, and Meary's angle from 162° ± 11 to 175° ± 4. Complications included one case of delayed wound healing, inflammatory skin reaction around the outlet of the percutaneous Kirschner wire in two cases, displacement of the endorthotic implant in one case, and a second surgery to replace the implant.

CONCLUSIONS

SERI osteotomy and subtalar arthroereisis resulted in an effective, technically simple and easily combined approach, with a high rate of good results and low rate of complications at mid-term follow-up. These techniques performed simultaneously represent a viable option in case of hallux valgus associated with flexible flatfoot during growth. Nevertheless, considering the limitations of this study, we believe that a larger case series and a longer follow-up should be desirable.

Symptomatic flexible flatfoot in adults: subtalar arthroereisis

Flexible flatfoot is a common deformity in pediatric and adult populations. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the functional and radiographic results of subtalar arthroereisis in adult patients with symptomatic flexible flatfoot. We included 26 feet in 16 patients who underwent subtalar arthroereisis for symptomatic flexible flatfoot. Radiographic examination included calcaneal inclination angle, lateral talocalcaneal angle, Meary’s angle, anteroposterior talonavicular angle, and Kite’s angle. The clinical assessment was based on the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot scale and a visual analog scale (VAS). The mean follow-up was 15.1±4.7 months. The mean preoperative AOFAS score was 53±6.6, while the mean AOFAS score at the last follow-up visit was 75±11.2 (P<0.05). The mean visual analog scale score was 6.9±0.6 preoperatively and 4.1±1.4 at the last follow-up visit (P<0.05). The mean preoperative and postoperative values measured were 13.4°±3.3° and 14.6°±2.7° for calcaneal inclination angles (P<0.05); 35.7°±6.9° and 33.2°±5.3° for lateral talocalcaneal angles (P>0.05); 8°±5.3° and 3.3±3 for Meary’s angles (P<0.05); 5.6°±3.5° and 2.6°±1.5° for anteroposterior talonavicular angles (P<0.05); and 23.7°±6.1° and 17.7°±5° for Kite’s angles, respectively (P<0.05). Implants were removed in three feet (11.5%). Subtalar arthroereisis is a minimally invasive procedure that can be used in the surgical treatment of adults with symptomatic flexible flatfoot. This procedure provided radiological and functional recovery in our series of patients.

Spontaneous subtalar fusion: an irreversible complication of subtalar arthroereisis

Subtalar arthroereisis has been used for the treatment of symptomatic flexible flatfoot deformities in both pediatric and adult patients. Chronic sinus tarsi pain is the most common complication of this procedure and can be relieved by removal of the implant. We describe a case of spontaneous fusion of the subtalar joint after arthroereisis. This is an irreversible complication that should be described to the patient as a rare, but possible, outcome of arthroereisis of the subtalar joint.

[Flexible flatfoot in children: variation within normal range or need for treatment?]

Flexible flatfoot in childhood is a common cause for repetitive consultations and the diagnosis is verified by the clinical examination. In most cases the findings are age-dependent variants of the norm and if asymptomatic there is no need for treatment. In the first decade of life symptomatic flexible flatfoot should initially be treated with shoe inserts. Further diagnostic steps are required once conservative treatment is unsuccessful or a rigid structural deformity is found in the clinical examination. The underlying reasons may be neuropathic or structural anatomical in origin. Lateral column lengthening as described by Evans or minimally invasive arthroereisis are well established surgical options but for arthroereisis the number of long-term studies is low. In general the indications for surgical and conservative therapy have to be judged with caution although parents often see an urgent need for treatment.