Modified Calcanization of Tibia for Hindfoot Defect Reconstruction: Method and Preliminary Results

To introduce our modified technique for calcanization of the tibia in managing massive bony loss of hindfoot and preliminary outcomes.

From January 2015 to December 2021, modified calcanization of the tibia were performed in 10 patients with unilateral loss of the calcaneus. Clinical outcomes were assessed based on the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society score and Symptom Checklist-90-Revised questionnaire. Paired two-group t-test was applied to compare the parameters.

The mean lengthened length of the tibia was 77.3 ± 3.0 mm (range, 74-83 mm). The mean external fixation time was 123.7 ± 52.1 days (range, 117-134 days) and the mean external fixation index was 1.601 ± 0.046 days/mm. All patients stuck to the postoperative follow-up plan with an average follow-up time of 29.7 ± 3.4 months (range, 24-35 months). Deformities of the injured limbs were well corrected. Based on American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society score, eight good and two fair results were achieved. The mental status of all patients was within the normal range, and several indices of the Symptom Checklist-90-Revised questionnaire of each patient were improved after the whole procedure.

We demonstrate that the modified calcanization of the tibia is qualified for total loss of calcaneus with limited complications. Early rehabilitation is attainable since external fixation time is shortened due to a simplified procedure.