J Korean Foot Ankle Soc.  2006 Dec;10(2):218-222.

The Results of Subtalar Arthroereisis for Flexible Flatfoot of Children

• Lee KT
• Kim JS
• Young KW
• Kim JY
• Choi JH

Abstract

PURPOSE: We evaluate the results of subtalar arthroereisis with Kalix(R) implant (Newdeal, Lyon, France) that were performed in painful flatfoot deformity.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
We performed the subtalar arthroereisis on 16 feet of children symptomatic flexible flat feet after more than 6 months of conservative treatment. Average age was 11 years (8-14 years) old. We checked the functional status with AOFAS functional score in pre-operatively and at final follow-up. Radiologically, we took weight bearing anterior to posterior and lateral view of the feet, and measured the talo-1st metatarsal angle, calcaneal pitch angle, cuboid-surface height. Finally, we asked to patient's parents for satisfaction of the surgery.
RESULTS
Mean follow up period was 34.1 months. Average AOFAS score improved from preoperatively 71.9 to postoperatively 91.3. Only one patient has subtalar pain. Average lateral 1st metatarsal angle reduced from -18.2 degrees preoperatively to -4.6 degrees at final follow-up. Average anterior to posterior 1st metatarsal angle was reduced from 18.9 degrees preoperatively to 6.5 degrees at final follow-up. Average calcaneal pitch angle was increased from 8.6 degrees preoperatively to 12.6 degrees at final follow-up. Average cuoboid-surface height was improved from 12.1 mm preoperatively to 16.0 mm at final follow-up. All patients had excellent or good satisfaction.
CONCLUSIONS
Subtalar arthroereisis with Kalix(R) implant is a viable surgical alternative for painful flatfoot deformity of children.

Keyword

Flatfoot; Arthroereisis; Kalix(R)

MeSH Terms

Child*
Congenital Abnormalities
Flatfoot*
Follow-Up Studies
Foot
Humans
Metatarsal Bones
Parents
Weight-Bearing