Radionuclide bone scanning in subtalar coalitions: differential considerations.

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Nuclear Medicine
• Radiology

Background:

• Subtalar coalitions can cause persistent foot and ankle pain.
• Plain film radiography may be inconclusive in diagnosing subtalar coalitions.

Observation:

• This study evaluated the utility of radionuclide bone scans in diagnosing subtalar coalitions.
• Five patients with suspected subtalar coalitions were analyzed.

Findings:

• Radionuclide bone scans demonstrated increased uptake in the subtalar joint in all confirmed coalition cases.
• A secondary area of uptake in the talus or talonavicular joint was observed in most coalition cases.
• Scans were normal in patients without coalitions and in those with other foot pain etiologies.

Implications:

• Radionuclide bone scanning is a valuable noninvasive tool for diagnosing subtalar coalitions.
• This imaging modality can differentiate coalitions from other causes of foot pain.
• Accurate diagnosis can guide appropriate treatment for subtalar coalition patients.