Features of calcaneonavicular coalition on coronal computed tomography

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Orthopedic Surgery
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Calcaneonavicular coalition is a congenital fusion between the calcaneus and navicular bones.
• Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment and management of foot deformities.
• Computed Tomography (CT) is a primary imaging modality for evaluating tarsal coalitions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify specific findings indicative of calcaneonavicular coalition on coronal CT images.
• To assess the diagnostic utility of coronal CT in detecting calcaneonavicular coalition.
• To correlate CT findings with surgical confirmation where available.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of CT scans from eight patients with 14 calcaneonavicular coalitions.
• Comparison of patient CT scans with those of ten normal feet.
• Surgical confirmation of diagnosis in five patients.

Main Results:

• Two key features of calcaneonavicular coalition were identified on coronal CT: lateral bridging and rounding of the talus.
• Lateral bridging is characterized as an abnormal bony mass adjacent to the talar head.
• All patients with confirmed coalition exhibited at least one of these coronal CT findings.

Conclusions:

• While axial CT is optimal for visualizing calcaneonavicular coalition, coronal views offer valuable diagnostic clues.
• The presence of lateral bridging and talar rounding on coronal CT should prompt consideration of calcaneonavicular coalition.
• These specific findings enhance the diagnostic capability of coronal CT for this condition.