Interference Screw for the Treatment of Pediatric Flexible Flatfoot

Flexible flatfoot is a common deformity in the pediatric population and can cause a range of symptoms and reduce the quality of life. Subtalararthroereisis may be appropriate for pediatric population whose conservative management had failed to relief their symptoms typically for at least 6 months. Subtalararthroereisis has been developed for a long time, but the use of interference screw for the treatment of pediatric flexible flatfoot has not been reported. From January, 2016 to June, 2017, we operated on 21 children (39 feet) between the ages of 8 and 14 years. The clinical assessment was based on the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hind-foot scale and the Chippaux-Smirak Index (CSI) measurements. And the anatomical parameters assessment was based on the radiographs and photographs. The postoperative AOFAS scores and CSI measurements were improved compared with preoperative AOFAS scores and CSI measurements. Postoperative anatomical parameters achieved significantly better results than preoperative anatomical parameters. In conclusion, the use of interference screw in subtalararthroereisis for the treatment of pediatric flexible flatfoot deformity is an effective, simple and minimally invasive solution.