This article is more than 5 years old. Information may no longer be current.
Similar union rates seen with open vs posterior arthroscopic subtalar arthrodesis
Click Here to Manage Email Alerts
Patients who underwent subtalar arthrodesis with either an open or arthroscopic technique had significant pain relief and improved function with comparable union rates, according to results of this study which also showed less time to union and quicker return to sports and work with the arthroscopic procedure.
Researchers performed a retrospective chart review for 121 consecutive patients who underwent subtalar arthrodesis. Based on deformity and surgeons’ preference, 57 patients were treated with an open subtalar arthrodesis technique and 64 patients were treated with a posterior arthroscopic subtalar arthrodesis technique.
Investigators evaluated patients with the Foot Function Index (FFI), SF-36, VAS and Angus and Cowell rating scale scores. Hindfoot alignment, operative time, length of hospital stay, rate of fusion, time to return to work, complications and ability to perform sports and activities of daily living were also calculated at baseline and at 12-month and 24-month follow-up visits.
Finding showed patients in both groups significantly improved with regard to VAS, SF-36, FFI and Angus and Cowell rating scale scores. Investigators noted the cohorts had similar mean operative times, VAS scores, Angus and Cowell ratings and coronal plane hindfoot alignment.
According to researchers, union rate and time to union among the different screw sizes and bone graft types were not significantly different between the groups. Patients who underwent open arthrodesis had more sural nerve complications and painful surgical scars, whereas patients who underwent arthroscopy had more hardware-related symptoms. ‒ by Monica Jaramillo
Disclosure: The researchers report no relevant financial disclosures.
Click Here to Manage Email Alerts