[Anterior tarsectomy for pes cavus: indications and long term results]

The authors have reviewed 48 cases of pes cavus treated by anterior tarsectomy with an average follow-up of two years. The clinical, anatomical and radiological features of the condition are described. The results were satisfactory in two-thirds of the cases. Failures were related to unsatisfactory indications such as children under thirteen, progressive neurological disease or associated impairment of the ankle joint (arthritis, dislocation). The indications for the procedure are discussed and compared with those for Dwyer calcaneal osteotomy, triple arthrodesis, soft tissue operations (Steindler) or resection of the metatarsal heads.