Isolated subtalar arthrodesis

Abstract

The aim of this study is to review the results of isolated subtalar arthrodesis in adults and to make a comparative analysis of the clinical outcomes between the patients with posttraumatic subtalar arthritis and the ones with other etiologic factors, and to evaluate the effects of grafting. This study included 19 men and 12 women. The mean postoperative follow-up was 36.8 months. The mean AOFAS hindfoot score improved from a mean of 46 preoperatively to a mean of 77.3 postoperatively. Thirty-one of 33 arthrodeses achieved bony union at a mean time of 15.7 weeks. The mean increase in the talocalcaneal height was 3.8 mm in the feet operated without grafting, whereas it was 8.1 mm in the feet for which grafting was performed. Improvement in talocalcaneal angle was significantly better in the feet operated with bone grafting. The feet with posttraumatic subtalar arthritis were more prone to Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy.