Changes in Dynamic Pedobarography after Extensive Plantarmedial Release for Paralytic Pes Cavovarus

PURPOSE: Plantarmedial release and first ray extension osteotomy are often combined to treat paralytic cavovarus foot deformity. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of additional first ray extension osteotomy in terms of dynamic pedobarography. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We reviewed findings of pre- and postoperative plain radiography and dynamic pedobarography for 25 patients in whom the flexibility of the hindfoot was confirmed by the Coleman block test. The results of treatment by extensive plantar medial release with first ray osteotomy (group I) were compared with the results of treatment by extensive plantar medial release alone (group II). RESULTS: Plain radiographs obtained pre- and postoperatively showed no statistically significant improvement in each group. Only in group I, peak forces at the 1st metatarsal head, 2nd metatarsal head and medial calcaneus were increased after operation. CONCLUSION: In paralytic hindfoot flexible cavovarus, extensive plantarmedial release with first ray osteotomy improve foot pressure distribution more than extensive plantarmedial release alone.