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Partial tarsal arthrodesis for rheumatoid feet
Yasuhito Tanaka1, Yoshinori Takakura, Akira Taniguchi
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Nara Medical University, Kashihara 634-8522, Japan. yatanaka@naramed-u.ac.jp
Modern Rheumatology
|December 5, 2006
Summary
Partial tarsal arthrodesis effectively treats rheumatoid arthritis foot deformities, providing pain relief and correcting alignment. Early intervention in limited joints is recommended, though adjacent joint osteoarthritis may progress.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Rheumatology
- Podiatry
Background:
- Rheumatoid arthritis frequently causes planovalgus foot deformity and intertarsal joint lesions.
- Surgical intervention is often necessary to manage pain and correct deformities in affected feet.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of partial intertarsal joint arthrodesis in treating rheumatoid arthritis-related foot deformities.
- To assess pain relief, osseous fusion, and deformity correction following the surgical procedure.
Main Methods:
- Partial intertarsal joint arthrodesis (single or double) was performed on 12 feet in 11 patients.
- Fixation was achieved using screws or staples, with follow-up ranging from 2 to over 8 years.
Main Results:
- Complete osseous fusion was achieved in all treated feet.
- Satisfactory pain relief was reported in all but one patient.
- The procedure effectively reduced pain and corrected deformities in active patients.
Conclusions:
- Partial tarsal arthrodesis is an effective treatment for early-stage rheumatoid arthritis-related planovalgus foot deformity.
- Limited joint fusion can yield significant functional improvements.
- Progression of osteoarthritis in adjacent joints necessitates close monitoring post-surgery.
