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Persistent Pain After Hindfoot Fusion
David Vier1, John Kent Ellington2
1Baylor University Medical Center at Dallas, 3500 Gaston Avenue, Dallas, TX 75246, USA.
Foot and Ankle Clinics
|June 9, 2022
Summary
Persistent pain after hindfoot fusion is a significant challenge for orthopedic surgeons. Achieving a painless, plantigrade foot is the goal, but patient expectations and potential complications require careful management.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Foot and Ankle Reconstruction
Background:
- Persistent pain following hindfoot fusion presents a significant challenge in orthopedic surgery.
- The hindfoot comprises the subtalar, talonavicular, and calcaneocuboid (CC) joints, often fused for various conditions including degenerative changes, deformities, and trauma.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address the challenges associated with persistent pain after hindfoot fusion.
- To discuss the goals of hindfoot fusion, including achieving a painless plantigrade foot.
- To highlight the importance of managing patient expectations regarding surgical outcomes and potential complications.
Main Methods:
- Review of common indications for hindfoot fusion.
- Discussion of surgical goals and patient outcomes.
- Emphasis on preoperative counseling and expectation management.
Main Results:
- Hindfoot fusion aims for a pain-free, plantigrade foot, often without needing orthotics or braces.
- Deformity correction may be achievable without necessarily including the calcaneocuboid (CC) joint in the fusion.
Conclusions:
- Persistent pain after hindfoot fusion remains a complex issue for orthopedic surgeons.
- Effective patient counseling regarding expectations and potential complications is crucial for successful hindfoot fusion outcomes.

