Taking out the tarsal coalition was easy: but now the foot is even flatter. What now?

Abstract

Patients with a preexisting hindfoot deformity, who undergo resection (with or without soft tissue interposition) of a tarsal coalition, may present with recurrent pain and worsening planovalgus deformity. This is due to the secondary effect of soft tissue contractures (lateral ligaments, peroneal tendons, calf muscles) "pulling" the foot into more valgus. Physiotherapy and insoles may help some patients. Depending on the flexibility of the hindfoot and the presence or otherwise of joint degeneration, joint-preserving corrective procedures or corrective joint fusions may be needed. Gastrocnemius, Achilles, and/or peroneal tendon releases may be required, to avoid equinus or further recurrence.

Keywords: Arthrodesis; Calcaneal osteotomy; Planovalgus; Tarsal coalition.