Treatment of Talipes Equinus Deformity Using Free Radial Forearm Flap and Achilles Tendon Lengthening

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Talipes equinus deformity is defined as impossibility of heel weight-bearing and lacking of improvement of toe-tip gait despite sufficient duration of conservative treatment. The incidence of equinus deformity induces post-traumatic extensive soft tissue defect and subsequently increases it. Severe equinus deformities of the foot associated with extensive scarring of the leg and ankle were corrected using achilles Z-lengthening and free-tissue transfer. METHODS: Free radial forearm flap was done in nine cases of eight patients from January 2000 to November 2006. Causes of deformity were post-traumatic contracture (one patient) and post-burn scar contracture (seven patients). Seven patients were male, one patient was female. Mean age was 32.1 (range, 10-57). Flap donors were covered with artificial dermis (Terudermis(R)) and split thickness skin graft (five cases), and medium thickness skin graft only (four cases). RESULTS: The size of flaps varied from 6x12 to 15 x12cm (average, 12x7.8cm). Achilles tendon was lengthened 4.2cm on average. Free radial forearm flap was satisfactory in all cases. All patients could ambulate normally after the surgery. Cases having donor coverage with Terudermis(R) were aesthetically better than those having skin grafts only. CONCLUSION: This study suggested that severe equinus deformities associated with extensive scarring of the leg and ankle can be corrected effectively free radial forearm flap and Achilles tendon lengthening.