Background

Subtalar nonunion has a detrimental effect on patients' function, and pose a significant challenge for surgeons particularly in the setting of higher risk factors.

Background. Open subtalar arthrodesis has been associated with a moderate rate of non-union, as high 16.3%, and high rates of infection and nerve injury. Performing this operation arthroscopically serves to limit the disruption to the soft tissue envelope, improve union rates and reduce infection. Our study describes our outcomes and experience of this operation. Method. Retrospective review of all patients who underwent an arthroscopic subtalar arthrodesis between 2023 and 2008. We excluded patients undergoing concurrent adjacent joint arthrodesis. The primary aim was to report on rates of union. Secondary outcomes included reporting on conversion to open procedure, duration of surgery, infection, and iatrogenic injury to surrounding structures. Results. 135 patients were included in the final analysis. 129 patients (95.5%) achieved union. The median time to fusion was 98 days. All cases were performed through sinus tarsi portals. 38 cases were performed with an additional posterolateral portal. Most cases (107/77%) were performed with 2 screws. 3 cases (2.2%) were converted to open procedures. The median tourniquet time was 86 minutes but available in only 88 (65%) cases. There were 4 (2.9%) superficial infections and no deep infections. 1 patient sustained an injury to FHL and there were no reported nerve injuries. Conclusions. At present this is the largest series of arthroscopic subtalar arthrodeses. We demonstrate that this operation can achieve high rates of union with low rates of infection with an equally low likelihood of needing to convert to an open procedure with modest operative times. In our experience the addition of a posterolateral portal does not appear to increase the incidence of nerve injury and aids in the visualisation of all 3 facets

Subtalar arthrodesis known as talocalcaneal fusion is an end-stage treatment for adult hind foot pathologies. The goal of the arthrodesis is to restrict the relative motion between bones of the subtalar joints, aiming to reduce pain and improve function for the patient. However, the change of the subtalar structures through the fusion is considered a disturbance to the joint biomechanics, which have been suggested to affect the biomechanics of the adjacent joints. However, no quantitative data are available to document this phenomenon. The purpose of the current study was to quantify the effects of subtalar arthrodesis on the laxity and stiffness of the talocrural joint in vitro using a robot-based joint testing system (RJTS) during anterioposterior (A/P) drawer test. Six fresh frozen ankle specimens were used in this study. The lateral tissues of the specimens were removed but the anterior and posterior talofibular ligaments and calcaneofibular ligament were kept intact. A/P drawer tests were performed on each of the specimens at neutral position, 5° and 10° of dorsiflexion, and 5?and 10?of plantarflexion using a robot-based joint testing system (RJTS), before and after subtalar arthrodesis. The RJTS enabled unconstrained A/P drawer testing at the prescribed ankle position while keeping the proximal/distal and lateral/medial forces, and varus/valgus and internal/external moments to be zero. This was achieved via a force-position hybrid control method with force and moment control, which has been shown to be more accurate than other existing force-position hybrid control methods. The target A/P force applied during the A/P drawer test was 100N in both anterior and posterior directions. The stiffness and laxity were calculated from the measured force and displacement data. The anterior and posterior stiffness of the talocrural joint were defined as the slope beyond 30% of the target A/P force, and the peak displacements quantified the laxity of the joint. Comparisons of laxity and stiffness between the intact and fusion ankle specimens were performed using Wilcoxon signed rank test (SPSS 19.0, IBM, USA) and a significance level of 0.05 was set. Subtalar arthrodesis did not lead to significant changes in the stiffness and laxity in both anterior and posterior directions (P>0.05). The mean anterior stiffness before arthrodesis was 9.54±1.17 N/mm and was 10.35±2.40 N/mm after arthrodesis. The mean anterior displacements before and after arthrodesis were 9.68±0.94 mm and 8.97±1.42 mm, respectively. Subtalar arthrodesis did not show significant effects on the A/P laxity and stiffness of the talocrural joint in both anterior and posterior directions. This may imply that the motion of the subtalar joints do not have significant effects on the A/P stability of the talocrural joint, which is the main joint of the ankle complex. This agrees with the anatomical roles of the subtalar joints which provide mainly the varus/valgus motions for the ankle complex. The current study provides a basis for further studies needed to evaluate the effects subtalar arthrodesis on the varus/valgus stability

Introduction. The goal of arthrodesis around the ankle or of triple (hind foot) arthrodesis is a painless, plantigrade, and stable foot. Stress fracture is a differential diagnosis for pain following an ankle/subtalar arthrodesis. Management of stress fractures following sound ankle/subtalar fusion is extremely difficult as the entire movement tends to occur at the fracture site, hence hampering healing. Methods and materials. 33 patients underwent ankle/subtalar arthrodesis at our institute from 2000-2008. The average age of the patients was 69 years and the male: female ratio was 2:1. The minimum follow-up was for one year. Although there were some variations in technique, all the arthrodesis were performed by removal of articular cartilage, bone grafting of any defects and rigid internal fixation. Results. 2/33 patients developed a stress fracture of the distal tibia following successful ankle/subtalar fusion. An angle of ankle/subtalar fusion showed an average of 0 degrees +/− 3 degrees in the sagital plane, except for the two cases that developed the stress fracture. The angles in these cases were 13 and 11 degrees. The stress fractures occurred proximal to the level of the previous arthrodesis internal fixation devices (arthrodesis nail/cancellous screws). Intramedullary and extramedullary devices were utilised to obtain union across the stress fracture sites, without success. Discussion. Equinus of more than 10 degrees following ankle/subtalar arthrodesis is a high risk factor for developing a stress fracture of the distal tibia following ankle/subtalar arthrodesis. Stress fracture following successful ankle/subtalar arthrodesis causes severe morbidity. They are extremely difficult to treat, hence are best avoided if possible

Traditional open approaches for subtalar arthrodesis have reported nonunion rates of 5–16% and significant incidence of infection and nerve injury. The rationale for arthroscopic arthrodesis is to limit dissection of the soft tissues in order to preserve blood supply for successful fusion, whilst minimising the risk of soft tissue complications. The aim of this study was to determine the outcomes of sinus tarsi portal subtalar arthrodesis. Case records of all patients undergoing isolated arthroscopic subtalar arthrodesis by two senior surgeons between 2004 and 2014 were examined. All patients were followed up until successful union or revision surgery. The primary outcome measure was successful clinical and radiographic union. Secondary outcome measures included occurrence of infection and nerve injury. Seventy-seven procedures were performed in 74 patients, with successful fusion in 75 (97.4%). One (1.3%) superficial wound infection and one (1.3%) transient sural nerve paraesthesia occurred. Fixation with a single screw provided sufficient stability for successful arthrodesis. To our knowledge this is the largest reported series of isolated arthroscopic subtalar arthrodeses to date, and the first series reporting results of the two portal sinus tarsi approach. This approach allows access for decortication of all three articular facets, and obviates the need for a posterolateral portal, features which may explain the high union rate and low incidence of sural nerve injury in our series

Aims: Numerous techniques for subtalar arthrodesis have been described, with intraarticular and extraarticular methods. The purpose of this paper is to show our results with subtalar arthrodesis with arthroscopic technique. Methods: We reviewed 30 subtalar fusions and followed 26 patients (20 females and 6 males, average age 56,3 years) for an average of 48 months. The preoperative diagnosis was primary arthrosis in 19 cases, arthrosis secondary to trauma in 7 cases and subtalar instability secondary to neuropathic conditions in 4 cases. Patients are placed in a prone position. All arthroscopic procedures were done with non-invasive distraction, thigh tourniquet. Two portals, one each side of Achilles tendon, 2,5-3,0 cm above the junction of posterosuperior surface of the calcaneus and the Achilles tendon. A 4,0 mm 30 degree oblique arthroscope and a rotatory 4mm burr were used. Fixation was done with dynamic cannulated screw from calcaneus into talus. Results: Fusion occurred in all cases. Using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scored system the patients averaged is 92,7. Twenty four patients (92,3%) were satisfied and two are not satisfied (7,7). No Complications were reported. All patients wore normal shoes. Conclusions: Arthroscopic subtalar arthrodesis and open arthrodesis have similar results, with less morbidity in first one. It can be the chirurgical technique of choice for subtalar arthrodesis in all cases without hind-foot malalignment requiring correction

Introduction. AlloStem/Cellular Bone Allograft and autologous bone graft are accepted methods for managing hindfoot degenerative arthritis. The purpose was to evaluate outcomes of AlloStem and autograft in subtalar arthrodesis and compare overall fusion rates. Methods. This study was conducted in IRB compliance. Patients between 18–80 years who qualified for a subtalar fusion were randomized 1:1 to AlloStem or autologous graft. The AOFAS hindfoot ankle scale, FFI-R and SF-12 were collected pre-operatively, 6 weeks, 3 & 6 months, 1 and 2 year. Weight-bearing 3-view ankle X-rays were done at the same intervals. A CT scan was obtained at 6 months. Results. 140 patients were enrolled; 124 patients had surgery(60-AlloStem and 64-Control). Withdrawals included 14 voluntarily before surgery and 2 intra-operative failures. 19 were lost to follow-up. Mean age for AlloStem was 56.69(20.3–79.6) and Autograft was 54.60(20.74–80.07). 59 AlloStem patients completed their 6 month visit and 45 completed 2 years. AOFAS score improved: 40.02 at pre-op to 72.16(6 mo) to 79.51 at 1 year and 80.38 at 2 year. SF-12 improved 58.29 at pre-op to 65.67 at 6 month and 71.59 at 2 year. FFI-R improved 236.88 at pre-op to 203.53 at 6 month 149.93 at 2 year.60 Autograft patients completed their 6 month visit and 51 patients completed their 2 year. AOFAS score improved 42.89 at pre-op to 75.67 (6 mo) to 79.75 at 1 year and 78.62 at 2 year. Autograft SF-12 improved 60.55 at pre-op to 70.40 at 6 month and 75.26 at 2 year. Autograft FFI-R improved 217.16 at pre-op to 166.77 at 6 month and 145.43 at 2 year. AlloStem patients had a mean posterior fusion rate of 28.9% at 6 months whereas the Autograft had 46.3%(p=.049). Non-union rates were AlloStem(9/57)(15.7%) whereas Autograft was 3/60(5%). Conclusion. AlloStem trended to be inferior to Autologous graft

Between 2000 and 2004 we used subtalar arthrodesis to treat 44 patients for continued pain after intra-articular calcaneal fracture. All the fractures were due to laboral accidents. Average time to union was 3 month(2 to 4 months). Complications were minor in 12 patients and major in 10 patients. Lenght of follow-up was 23 months. Hindfoot scores (clinical rating system of the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society)improved from 35,11 to 67,22. The results were excelent in 7 patients, good in 24, fair in 7 and bad in 6 patients. Return to previous activities was possible in 26 pacients. We concludes that subtalar arthrodesis represents a rather effective treatment of the subtalar arthritis due to inta-articular calcaneal fractures. The majority of patients can have improvement with surgical reconstruction but pain relief is usually not complete

Introduction. Postoperative pain following the 3 component ankle arthroplasty (AA) (Mobility™) is a recognised problem without any apparent cause. This study aimed to determine pattern of postoperative pain following Total Ankle Arthroplasty (TAA) and its management options. Materials and methods. In prospective observational study 167 patients who had (AA) and minimum follow-up of 24 months were included. FAOS ankle score, patients' satisfaction, SF36 and diagrammatic mapping of postoperative pain among other parameters were collected preoperatively and postoperatively at 3 months, 6 months and the annually. 20 Patients (12%) had moderate to severe postoperative ankle pain following the ankle arthroplasty. Results. Most of patients with mild pain and low AOFAS score during first year improved by the 2 year review. The pain was localised to the medial aspect of the ankle in 10 patients, lateral side in 8 patients, and both medial and lateral side in 1 patient and global in 1 patient with complex regional pain syndrome. 8 patients with medial or lateral pain needed a re-operation. 5 patients with medial pain were treated by complete release of deltoid ligament along with bony decompression of the medial compartment. None of the above implants were loose intra-operatively. 2 AA with lateral pain needed subtalar arthrodesis. 1 patient needed removal of metalwork from the calcaneum for relief of symptoms. A significant improvement of pain and AOFAS scores was observed in 3 out of the 5 patients who underwent medial compartment decompression and both patients who underwent subtalar arthrodesis. Conclusion. There are 10–13% of low AOFAS scores following Ankle Arthroplasty due to pain. In our series, the pain did not co-relate to implant loosening. Our treatment protocol of mapping of pain and re-do surgery could improve the long term outcome in a significant proportion of the patients

Grice-Green subtalar arthrodesis was initially reported to correct valgus hindfoot deformities in patients with poliomyelitis. Nowadays, the indications of the Grice-Green arthrodesis have been significally broadened. The aim of this study is to analyse the indications of treatment and evaluate the results of the Grice-Green arthrodesis in children. During the period 1986–2006, 17 children with valgus hindfoot deformities were treated in our department. In 12 of them the procedure was performed in both feet and in the rest (5 patients) unilaterally. The mean age at operation was 8.8 years. The most common group of patients suffered from cerebral palsy (10 patients), followed by the patients suffering from myelomeningocele (4 patients), 2 patients suffered from overcorrection following treatment of congenital equinovarus and one patient from Charcot Marie Tooth disease. In neine patients the operation was combined with Achilles tendon lengthening, capsulotomies, tendon transfers, tendonotomies, and Evans arthrodesis. In all operations bone graft from the tibia or the fibula was used. Postoperatively a balow knee non weightbearing cast was applied for 8 weeks followed by a weightbearing cast for 4 weeks. The results were avaluated according to Alman and Zimbies criteria. The mean follow up of the patients was 4.2 years. The results in 24 feet were considered excellent and in 5 cases satisfactory. In all cases subtalar arthrodesis was achieved. Grice-Green arthrodesis is a very useful operative technique for the correction of severe valgus hindfoot deformities in children. The results of the technique are usually good and the operation does not influence the normal growth of the foot. An accurate preoperative planning and a good surgical technique is neccesary for good results

Aims: The purpose of this paper is to show our results with subtalar arthrodesis. Methods: We reviewed 16 sub-talar fusions and followed 14 patients (12 females and 2 males, average age 56,3 years) for an average of 30 months. The preoperative diagnosis was primary arthrosis in 13 cases and secondary to trauma in 3 cases. All arthroscopic procedures were done with non-invasive distraction, thigh tourniquet, a rotatory 4mm burr and þxation with dynamic cannulated screw from the neck of the talus into the calcaneus. Results: Fusion occurred in all cases. Using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scored system the patients averaged is 92,7. Thirteen patients (98,9) were satisþed and one is not satisþed (7,1). All patients wore normal shoes. Conclusions: Arthroscopic subtalar arthrodesis and open arthrodesis have similar results, with less morbidity in þrst one. It can be the chirurgical technique of choice in subtalar arthrosis without hindfoot malalignment

We treated 31 feet in 17 children with myelomeningocele by extra-articular subtalar arthrodesis. Two patients were lost to follow-up. In the rest, we assessed the correction of valgus deformity and the growth of the tarsal bones. At operation the mean age of the eight girls and nine boys was 6.3 years (3 to 9). At a mean follow-up period of 5.5 years (3 to 9) patients were evaluated clinically and radiologically. We assessed calcaneal growth by calculating the ratio of calcaneal and naviculo-metatarsal longitudinal length on the preoperative and follow-up lateral radiographs. Results of valgus correction were good in 19 feet. In eight they were unsatisfactory owing to progressive valgus of the ankle. Orthotic fitting was difficult and pressure sores over the medial malleolus often developed. Four of the patients underwent further correction by distal tibial osteotomy. The growth ratio was increased in 15 feet, remained the same in seven and decreased in five. Extra-articular subtalar arthrodesis produced satisfactory partial correction of a complex valgus deformity and stability of the hindfoot, and did not have a detrimental effect on the growth of the calcaneus

Introduction: In situ subtalar arthrodesis cannot restore anatomical shape of the hindfoot in severe flat foot deformities. Purpose of this paper is to evaluate the result of 250 feet consecutively operated by subtalar arthrodesis with distraction and insertion of a mini structural bone block (SAMBB). Material and Methods: 178 patients (250 feet), mean age 55+/−11 years affected by acquired adult flat foot with subtalar arthritis were evaluated clinically and radiographically and selected to receive SAMBB. Arthrodesis was performed through a 2.5 cm incision, with partial cartilage removal and insertion of a structural corticocancellous block (2 × 1cm), harvested from the proximal ipsilateral tibia, vertically positioned into the sinus tarsi. Associate procedures were Achilles tendon lengthening (124), SERI procedure (61), hind-foot deformity correction (32). Postoperatively plaster-cast without weight-bearing for 4 weeks followed by walking boot was advised. All patients were reviewed at a minimum follow-up of 5 years. Results: Before surgery the mean AOFAS score was 42+/−15, while it was 90+/−8 at follow-up (p< 0.005). Mean heel valgus deviation at rest was 15°+/−8° preoperatively and 6°+/−5° at follow-up (p< 0.005). Mean angulation of Meary’s line at talonavicular joint level was 160°+/−11° preoperatively and 174°+/−8 at follow-up. No complications were found. No or minimal arthritis progression was observed in the ipsilateral foot joints at follow up. Conclusions: SAMBB resulted in an adequate correction of the deformity, with restoration of the anatomical shape of the hind foot and correction of the relationship with the midtarsal joint with no need of hardware. Consequent reduced arthritis progression and excellent clinical result were obtained

Aim: To analyse retrospectively patients after subtalar extra-articular arthrodesis in CP patients. Material and methods: The operation was designed to correct pronated valgus foot. Followed cohort involved 43 patients with 72 affected and operated feet. Subtalar arthrodesis was based on insertion of bicortical graft obtained from iliac wing in the corrected position of the foot. Immobilisation in POP cast continued for 6 weeks postoperatively. Patients were followed clinically and radiographically in standing position before the operation, and after that at regular intervals. Clinical examination involved estimation of heel valgus, foot-prints, videodocumentation. Lateral talo-calcaneal angle (TC) and calcaneal-bottom angle (CB) were measured on radiographs. Moreover qualitative-descriptive classification was used (good, fair, poor). Results: The median of preoperative TC angle was 44,5° at right foot and 48,0° at left foot. The median of postoperative angle changed to 29,5° at right foot and 29,0° at left foot. The difference in TC angles before and after operation was statistically significant. The median of preoperative CB angle was 7,5° at right foot and 7,0° at left foot. The median of postoperative CB angle was 10,5° at right foot and 7,5° at left foot. The difference in CB angles before and after operation was not statistically significant. Operation failed in two cases due to collapse or migration of the graft. Significant improvement in this study was found in 59 (82%) of cases. Discussion: Plenty of reports concerning the use of classical Grice-Green operation in different modifications were reported. This study is based on the use of bicortical cortico-cancellous graft, which provided good stability as well as a smooth incorporation to the neighbouring bones. The correction in TC angle dominated over change in CB angle. Conclusion: Subtalar extra-articular arthrodesis showed in mid-term follow up very good results

Background: Heel valgus and flattening of arch are common in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The progression of hindfoot valgus deformity results in pain and debilitating disability, and causes the excessive stress on the ankle joint. Subtalar arthrodesis is often indicated in these cases to reduce the pain and to correct the talocalcaneal alignment. However, accurate correction is not easy without bone grafting, because bone defect often appears after correction. Bone grafting is necessary for accurate correction in these cases, but we have avoided it because of following reasons; donor site problem like insufficiency fractures of pelvis, supply limitation of autograft for possible multiple operations during long term disease progression of RA and the lack of bone graft substitutes, which possesses enough osteoconductivity. Now we have developed the interconnected porous calcium hydroxyapatite (IP-CHA) which possesses good osteoconductivity and achieves major incorporation with host bone much more rapid than the other porous calcium hydroxyapatite. So, we evaluated the usefulness of the packing with the newly developed IP-CHA in bone defect after correction of pes planovalgus deformity of RA patients. Methods: The best possible correction of talonavivular alignment and fixation is performed using one cubic hydroxyapatite block (1x1x1cm), staple and Kirschner wire. Then granular IP-CHA is implanted in bone defect existing mainly in talar body, gap of talonavicular joint and sinus tarsi. Six planovalgus feet were treated with subtalar arthrodesis in 4 female RA patients (3; triple arthrodesis, 3; subtalar and talonavicular arthrodesis). The average age was 56.8 years. Angle of internal arch (IA), tibiocalcaneal (TC) angle in modified Cobey’s method, talocalcaneal height (TCH) in standing position were assessed on the basis of the radiographies at just before operation and final follow-up (average 17.5 months, range 7 to 25 months). Results: Mean IA angle was 138.9 degrees pre-operatively and 132.4 at the last follow-up. Mean TC angle was 14.9 degrees pre-operatively and 7.2 at the last follow-up. No collapse or deformity of hydroxyapatite implanted in the bone defect was observed. Conclusion: Our original technique using IP-CHA was shown to prevent from initial sinking or loss of correction. This technique could make it quit easy to correct the malalignment of talocalcaneal joint with regaining of TCH in painful planovalgus deformity of RA patients

Arthrodesis of both the ankle and the hindfoot has been discussed in the literature since the early part of the last century. Techniques have been modified substantially since these early discussions, though complications remain a frustrating element in patient management. Early procedures relied on molded plaster casts to hold fixation in corrected positions. Successful outcomes were hampered by loss of reduction in these casts and subsequent malunions. In addition, motion within these casts lead to a high rate of nonunion between the opposed bony surfaces. The era of internal fixation allowed compression across arthrodesis sites, enhancing union but creating a host of technical errors leading to unsatisfying results. Malunion is also seen in post-traumatic situations. In particular, non-operative management of calcaneus fracture (or other hindfoot fractures) leads to not only arthritis of the involved joint surfaces, but malunion complicating successful fusion. Fusion in-situ leads to a high level of patient dissatisfaction, leading surgeons to challenging deformity correction while trying to achieve successful arthrodesis in compromised joints. This lecture will focus on two types of malunion, one iatrogenic, one acquired. Revision triple arthrodesis (iatrogenic) can range from simple to challenging. A variety of studies document patient dissatisfaction following correction via this technique, ranging from Graves and Mann (1993) where the highest dissatisfaction rate was in highest in valgus malunion, to Sangeorzan and Hansen (1993), who found a 9% failure rate, most with varus malunion. The precarious balance required to create a plantigrade foot via triple arthrodesis with pre-existing deformity leaves even the most skilled surgeon challenged. As such, this component of the lecture will focus on recognition and correction of malunion based on a structured algorithmic approach we first presented in 1997. This algorithm is based on recognition of the apex of the deformity, and creating osteotomies to achieve balance. We reviewed 28 patients who returned for follow-up examination who received treatment through this algorithm and found a statistically significant improvement in pre- and postoperative AOFAS ankle/hindfoot score, from an average of 31 points preoperatively to 59 postoperatively (p<0.01). All patients united, and all stated they would undergo the revision procedure again. Comparisons of pre- and postoperative shoe wear modification demonstrated a statistically significant improvement (p=0.01). Preoperatively, 20 patients required restrictive devices such as ankle foot orthoses and orthopaedic shoes. Postoperatively, only 1 patient required such a restrictive device. In fact, 17 patients required no modifications to their shoe wear at all. The second component to this lecture will assess acquired hindfoot deformity, from malunion created by calcaneus fractures. A 2005 JBJS study by Brauer, et.al. found operative management resulted in a lower rate of subtalar arthrodesis with a shorter time off work compared to non-operative management. Removing the expense of time off work still netted a $2800 savings for operative management over non-operative management. Sanders echoed these thoughts in a JBJS 2006 paper, suggesting patients with displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures may benefit from acute operative treatment given the difficulty encountered in restoring the calcaneal height and the talo-calcaneal relationship in symptomatic calcaneal fracture malunion. Thus, with these challenges in mind, the goal of this component of the lecture is to introduce methods to achieve balance and union with calcaneus fracture malunion. Vertically oriented multiplanar calcaneal osteotomy may assist the surgeon in avoiding the higher non-union rate associated with bone-block arthrodesis procedures. In this vein, the challenges associated with bone block subtalar arthrodesis will be explored

The Australian National Joint Replacement Registry is now one of the largest of its kind in the world with over 420,000 surgeries having been collected. Of these the majority are THR and TKR. Recently replacements of the shoulder, elbow, wrist and ankle (TAJR) have been included on the registry and we already have approxi-mately200 TAJR on the registry. It is anticipated that within 4 years we should be able to provide TAJR sur-vivorship data that will be world class. For this to occur it will mean that revision surgeries of any kind will need to be tracked which will not automatically occur unless an implant is changed or removed. As revision surgeries could involve conversion to an arthrodesis, gutter clearance, ligament stabilization, subtalar arthrodesis, treatment of malleolar fractures or realignment hindfoot procedures the AOA member must notify the registry of such events for the data set to be a true indication of the performance of any particular prosthesis. The aim of this presentation is to promote discussion on what secondary interventions the registry will need to be notified of and what processes will need to be established so the additional data can be verified by the registry

A recognised treatment for severe sub-talar arthritis is joint fusion. This can be performed using a well established open technique or achieved through an arthroscopic approach. The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate the results of arthroscopic sub-talar arthrodesis performed by a single surgeon in our institution. 13 arthroscopic sub-talar joint fusions were performed over a 2 year period in patients presenting with isolated arthritis of the joint in question. All arthrodeses were carried out using two posterolateral portals and one posteromedial portal and fixed with two single 7 mm partially threaded cancellous screws. Outcome measures included the American Foot and Ankle (AFOS) score, time to union and post-operative complications. No patients were lost to follow-up. 12 out of 13 arthrodeses went onto clinical and radiological fusion. The AFOS score improved from36 (range 32–50) pre-operatively to 75 (range 65–80) at final follow up. Complications included 1 non-union, 1 DVT and 1 superficial wound infection. 3 patients have had metalwork removed secondary to screw irritation. The results of subtalar arthrodesis performed using an arthroscopic technique is comparable with an open approach and provides high patient satisfaction

Tibiotalocalcaneal (TTC) arthrodesis using a retrograde nail is a common salvage procedure for a range of indications. Previous work has suggested subtalar joint preparation is unnecessary to achieve satisfactory results. We examine the incidence of symptomatic subtalar nonunion following tibiotalocalcaneal fusion in a series of patients, all of whom had full preparation of the subtalar joint, and consider the possible contributing factors. We performed a retrospective review of all patients who underwent TTC arthrodesis from 2004–2010. All fusions were performed by the same surgeon with full preparation of both tibiotalar and subtalar joints. 61 TTC arthrodeses were performed in 55 patients (mean age = 59 years) using an intramedullary retrograde nail. Mean follow-up was 18 months (6–48 months). Fifty-six ankles (92%) achieved satisfactory union. Five patients (8%) had symptomatic non-union: 4 patients of the subtalar joint - with 3 patients undergoing revision subtalar arthrodesis and 1 patient of the tibiotalar joint. Nine patients required removal of the calcaneal screw (16%) – all had evidence of isolated subtalar nonunion prior to metalwork failure. Eight of these patients achieved asymptomatic union following screw removal. Subtalar nonunion following TTC fusion has resulted in recent changes to nail design to increase stability across the subtalar joint. Our results demonstrate a favourable overall nonunion rate with isolated subtalar nonunion making up the majority of cases. We also observed a significant rate of distal screw loosening, also associated with subtalar nonunion prior to screw removal, the significance of which merits further investigation

Purpose of the study: When treating flatfoot, the objective of subtalar arthrodesis is to reestablish appropriate relations between the talus and the calcaeum by implanting a spacer. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of an expansion screw placed in the tarsal sinus and to assess the outcome. Material and methods: Thirty patients with reducible symptomatic flatfoot participated in the study. There were 28 men and 2 women. Surgery was proposed because of pain-related functional disability and failure of orthopedic treatment. Mean age at surgery was 21 years. The Djian-Annonier angle was 134°. The patients were reviewed retrospectively. The Kitaoka function score was noted. Results: Mean follow-up was four years. None of the patients wore orthopedic shoes. Degenerative joint remodeling was not observed. The overall outcome was: very good (n=20), good (n=4), fair (n=2), poor (n=4). Discussion: Arthrorisis using a spacer positioned in the tarsal sinus is a technically simple procedure enabling significant podoscopic correction of flatfoot which persists. Conclusion: This simple technique enables satisfactory anatomic and functional results