Talocalcaneal Coalition Resection with Corrective Osteotomies in Symptomatic Adolescents

CATEGORY: Hindfoot INTRODUCTION/PURPOSE: Resection of a symptomatic talocalcaneal coalition in an adolescent without correction of the planovalgus deformity aggravates the problem because the tight peroneal tendons and triceps surae pull the heel into more valgus after release of the subtalar joint. This study aims to evaluate the clinical results of resection of symptomatic talocalcaneal coalition in adolescents with simultaneous correction of the planovalgus deformity using combined bony and soft tissue procedures. METHODS: In 24 feet in 21 adolescents (age 13 to 17) with symptomatic talocalcaneal coalition and planovalgus deformity, resection of the coalition was performed together with simultaneous medial displacement calcaneal osteotomy, lateral column lengthening, Cotton osteotomy if needed, gastrocnaemius recession, and peroneal tendon fractional lengthening. Follow up evaluation was done using the AOFAS hindfoot score and subjective patient satisfaction. Complications and reoperation were reported. RESULTS: After a minimal follow up of one year (range 1 to 5 years), the results were classified excellent in 12 feet, good in 8 feet, and fair in four feet using the AOFAS hindfoot score. Subjective patient satisfaction was graded excellent in 14 feet, good in 6 feet and fair in four feet. Two patients underwent subsequent subtalar fusion with subsequent improvement and satisfaction. Other complications included superficial wound problems in 5 feet, and talar incomplete fracture during coalition resection which was fixed in one foot. CONCLUSION: Resection of a symptomatic talocalcaneal coalition with simultaneous correction of pes planovalgus deformity is a good option for management of such problem in adolescents.