Complications associated with talectomy in paediatric patients: a comparative retrospective study of two surgical techniques

BACKGROUND: Studies describing the surgical approaches utilized for talectomy and their associated complications are scarce. We aimed to compare the surgical techniques and associated procedures from two groups of patients who underwent talectomy using two approaches. The main purpose of this study was to describe the complications and recurrence rates associated with each technique. METHODS: Between January 2004 and December 2019, 62 talectomies were performed in 48 pediatric patients with different pathologies. All patient data were reviewed retrospectively, and data of 31 patients were included in the study. The patients were divided into two groups based on the surgical technique used, and the baseline characteristics, along with the post-operative findings, and the intervention types in relation to complications were analyzed. RESULTS: In the terms of hindfoot varus, midfoot adductus, forefoot supination, and dorsal bunions, the prevalence of these deformities was higher in group (A). Group (B) patients tolerated braces (88.9 %) better than group (A) patients (84.0 %). More adjunct procedures were required in group (A) than group (B) Furthermore, the frequency and types of complications, as well as the need for further surgeries were also higher in group (A). There was a higher rate of recurrence in group A than group B. CONCLUSIONS: Talectomy is an effective procedure for the treatment of persistent foot deformities despite associated complications. Surgical details and addressing associated deformities with adjunct surgical interventions should be considered.