The Evans osteotomy: technique and fixation with cortical bone pin

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Foot and Ankle Surgery
• Surgical Techniques

Background:

• The Evans calcaneal osteotomy is a surgical procedure used in foot and ankle reconstruction.
• Precise measurement and stable fixation are critical for successful osteotomy outcomes.
• Current fixation methods may present complications or lack biologic compatibility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a novel technique utilizing a lamina spreader for Evans calcaneal osteotomy.
• To evaluate the potential benefits of cortical bone pins as an internal fixation method.

Main Methods:

• A lamina spreader is employed over converging pins to open the Evans calcaneal osteotomy.
• Precise measurement of the recipient bone site is facilitated by this method.
• Cortical bone pins were used in a limited series (N=10) for internal fixation.

Main Results:

• The lamina spreader technique allows for controlled opening and accurate recipient site measurement.
• Cortical bone pins demonstrated ease of use and good stability of the bone fragment.
• This fixation method utilizes graft-identical material, offering absorbable internal fixation.

Conclusions:

• The described technique offers advantages for Evans calcaneal osteotomy.
• Cortical bone pins represent a potentially biologic and effective internal fixation option.
• Further investigation into cortical bone pin fixation is warranted.