Supramalleolar Osteotomies: An Algorithm for the Deformed Ankle

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Reconstructive surgery
• Podiatric surgery

Background:

• Supramalleolar osteotomies are a surgical technique introduced in 1995.
• They are used to correct deformities of the ankle and hindfoot, including varus, valgus, procurvatum, recurvatum, and rotational malalignment.
• While previously used in pediatric and hemophilic populations, they are a relatively new reconstructive approach.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of supramalleolar osteotomies in realigning the tibiotalar joint.
• To assess the optimization of hindfoot position in various deformities.
• To compare bony consolidation with other osteotomy and arthrodesis techniques.

Main Methods:

• Performing supramalleolar osteotomies, primarily in cancellous bone.
• Realigning the tibiotalar joint and optimizing hindfoot position.
• Comparing outcomes with dome osteotomies and complex arthrodesis.

Main Results:

• Supramalleolar osteotomies provide powerful realignment of the tibiotalar joint.
• They effectively optimize hindfoot position in cases of varus, valgus, procurvatum, recurvatum, and tibial rotation.
• This technique demonstrates rapid and reliable bony consolidation.

Conclusions:

• Supramalleolar osteotomies are an effective technique for correcting complex ankle and hindfoot deformities.
• The procedure offers advantages in terms of bony consolidation compared to alternative methods.
• It represents a valuable addition to reconstructive surgical options.