[The Grice technique for tarsal coalition]

Show that the surgical release of the coalition area and the Grice subtalar arthrodesis are useful for the treatment of tarsal coalition, and describe the surgical techniques used.

This is a prospective, longitudinal, non-randomized clinical trial conducted from January 2001 to December 2007. Patients of both genders were selected, ages 10-15 years of age, with a diagnosis of tarsal coalition without any other type of orthopedic or neurologic comorbid condition. The Harris classification of tarsal coalition was used. AP, lateral and oblique X-rays of both feet were ordered, as well as a CAT scan; the Costa-Bertani angles were measured. Central trend and scatter measurements were performed for the statistical analysis, as well as the comparison of means Z test, the relative risk (RR) and the linear correlation.

Twenty-six patients, 20 males and 6 females, were included in the study; 12 of them had fibrous talocalcaneal coalitions, 12 had bone coalitions and 2 had calcaneonavicular coalitions.

one reflex sympathetic dystrophy, 4 superficial infections, 4 graft resorptions, and 4 patients with persistent pain. In the Z test for the Costa-Bertani angles the p value was 0.0020. The RR for obesity was 4.5, the linear correlation coefficient r for valgus hindfoot and pain was 78.

The clinical results indicate an improvement in pain and gait. Overweight was found to be a risk factor for persistent pain.