Isolated subtalar arthrodesis through minimal incision surgery

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Foot and Ankle Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Procedures

Background:

• Increasing adoption of minimally invasive techniques (arthroscopy, percutaneous, minimal incisions) in foot and ankle surgery.
• Need to evaluate novel techniques for isolated subtalar arthrodesis (ISA).

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the fusion rate and clinical outcomes of isolated subtalar arthrodesis (ISA).
• To evaluate the efficacy of a novel minimal incision surgery (MIS) technique for ISA.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective and prospective analysis of 77 feet in 76 patients undergoing ISA using MIS without tourniquet.
• Average follow-up of 50 months.
• Radiographic and clinical assessment of fusion, alongside Angus and Cowell Scoring System, AOFAS Ankle-Hindfoot, SF-36, and patient satisfaction.

Main Results:

• Achieved 92% radiographic and clinical consolidation.
• 57 patients had 'good' outcomes (Angus and Cowell criteria).
• Significant improvements in AOFAS scores (47.6 points) and SF-36 (mental and physical components) observed in the prospective group, with no early wound complications.

Conclusions:

• This study represents the largest series on ISA using MIS.
• MIS for ISA demonstrates comparable bony union and clinical outcomes to traditional methods.
• The MIS technique is a viable option, particularly for patients at higher risk of wound healing issues.