Surgical management and treatment algorithm for the subtle cavovarus foot.

BACKGROUND: Subtle cavovarus foot is a condition that can lead to significant foot pain and disability. We review the results of our treatment algorithm at medium-term followup. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty-five consecutive patients with lateral based symptoms due to an underlying congenital subtle cavovarus foot type were surgically corrected. Various procedures were utilized, including some combination of the following: lateral displacement calcaneus osteotomy, peroneus longus to brevis transfer, dorsiflexion first metatarsal osteotomy, and Achilles tendon lengthening. Twenty-three patients, with 29 feet, returned for followup examination. The mean patient age at the time of surgery was 43.4 years, and the mean followup to date was 4.4 years. RESULTS: The mean AOFAS ankle hindfoot score preoperatively was 45, and postoperatively was 90. Radiographically, the medial cuneiform to floor height changed from 3.5 cm preoperatively to 3.0 cm postoperatively. The talo-first metatarsal angle improved 7.5 degrees postoperatively. There were no nonunions. No patients to date have gone on to fusions or revisions. Ten feet (34%) required hardware removal. All patients had resolution of their symptoms following hardware removal. CONCLUSION: The surgical management for the subtle cavovarus foot based on the proposed treatment algorithm provided symptomatic relief, longstanding correction, and high patient satisfaction.

Application of a constrained external fixator frame for treatment of a fixed equinus contracture.

UNLABELLED: Ankle equinus can result from congenital, traumatic, neurological, and pathological etiologies. Corrective methods have been described in the literature using a combination of soft tissue releases or osseous procedures with reported complications. We present a case report of a patient with a post-traumatic fixed equinus deformity of 28 degrees at maximum dorsiflexion, treated successfully through gradual correction using a modified constrained external fixator. The patient maintained a rectus foot and was able to perform all daily activities at the final follow-up. Fixed equinus deformities can be difficult to manage. Gradual correction with an external fixator is a reasonable treatment option. LEVEL OF CLINICAL EVIDENCE: 4.

Triple arthrodesis for the adult-acquired flatfoot deformity.

Triple arthrodesis is often the procedure of choice for end-stage adult-acquired flatfoot. The benefits of triple arthrodesis include resolution of symptoms, hindfoot realignment, and stability. This article reviews the operative technique, realignment considerations, and postoperative management when performing triple arthrodesis. When taken into account, these recommendations provide a favorable outcome for both the patient and the surgeon.