Progressive neuromuscular planovalgus foot deformity treated with a modified extra-articular subtalar fusion

Abstract

Background: Obtaining a successful subtalar fusion in the pediatric population can be challenging. We present our results with a modified extraarticular method.

Materials and methods: - We retrospectively evaluated 12 patients (17 feet) with progressive neuromuscular planovalgus foot deformity that underwent an extra-articular subtalar arthrodesis with the combined Batchelor-Grice procedure. All patients were ambulatory and were treated conservatively with braces prior to the operation. The average followup was 10 (range, 5 to 17) years. Postoperatively the feet were immobilized in short leg casts for 6 weeks. Preoperative and postoperative appearance of the feet, the clinical symptoms and radiographic measurements were recorded.

Results: Sustained correction and solid fusion took place in all feet. Foot appearance and gait pattern of the patients were improved, while preoperative complaints were reduced. Radiographic healing was noted in all cases.

Conclusion: This technique is an effective treatment for the correction of the deformity as it gives a greater assurance of solidarity than when either of the two procedures is used alone.