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Extensile posterior approach to the ankle
1District General Hospital, Southport, England.
Summary
A novel posterior surgical approach provides excellent exposure of the ankle and posterior subtalar joint. This technique, utilizing a calcaneal osteotomy, offers a safe and stable option for posterior ankle procedures.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Anatomy
- Surgical Approaches
Background:
- Anterior approaches are standard for ankle replacement.
- Transfibular approaches are common for ankle arthrodesis.
- Limited posterior exposure options exist for specific ankle pathologies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a new posterior surgical approach to the ankle and posterior subtalar joint.
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of this novel approach.
Main Methods:
- A posterior approach utilizing an extra-articular vertical calcaneal osteotomy.
- Dissection follows an internervous plane posterior to the fibula.
- A medially hinged posterior flap provides wide joint exposure.
Main Results:
- Successful application in 12 patients with osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.
- Good surgical outcomes reported.
- No complications related to wound healing were observed.
Conclusions:
- This new posterior approach offers a viable and safe method for accessing the posterior ankle and subtalar joint.
- The technique facilitates stable reduction and provides adequate surgical exposure.
- It presents a promising alternative for specific posterior ankle surgeries.