Subtalar Fusion Preparation: What Are We Really Doing? A Cadaver Study

2019 ◽  
Vol 13 (3) ◽  
pp. 201-206 ◽  
Author(s):  
Eildar Abyar ◽  
Haley M. McKissack ◽  
Martim C. Pinto ◽  
Zachary L. Littlefield ◽  
Leonardo V. Moraes ◽  
...  

Introduction. The open, lateral sinus tarsi approach is the most commonly used technique for subtalar arthrodesis. In this cadaver study, we measured the maximum joint surface area that could be denuded of cartilage and subchondral bone through this approach. Methods. Nine fresh frozen above-knee specimens were used. The subtalar joint was accessed through a lateral incision from the fibular malleolus distally over the sinus tarsi area to the level of the calcaneocuboid joint. Cartilage was removed from the anterior, middle, and posterior facets of the calcaneus and talus using an osteotome and/or curette. ImageJ was used to calculate the surface areas of undenuded cartilage. Results. No specimens were 100% denuded of cartilage on all 6 measured surfaces. The greatest percentages of unprepared surface area remained on the middle facet of the talus (18.66%) and the middle facet of the calcaneus (14.51%). The anterior facet of the talus was 100% denuded in 6 specimens, while the middle and posterior facets were 100% denuded in 3 specimens. The anterior facet of the calcaneus was also 100% denuded in 6 specimens, while the middle and posterior facets were 100% denuded in 3 and 4 specimens, respectively. The average total unprepared surface area per specimen was 8.67%. Conclusion. The lateral sinus tarsi approach provides adequate denudation of cartilage of the subtalar joint in most cases. Total percentage of unprepared joint surface may range from approximately 2% to 18%. Future clinical studies are warranted to assess whether this technique results in optimal union rates. Levels of Evidence:V, Cadaveric Study

2018 ◽  
Vol 3 (3) ◽  
pp. 2473011418S0040
Author(s):  
Megan Reilly ◽  
Kurosh Darvish ◽  
Soroush Assari ◽  
John Cole ◽  
Tyler Wilps ◽  
...  

Category: Hindfoot Introduction/Purpose: In tibiotalocalcaneal nails for arthrodesis, the path of the nail through the subtalar joint has not been well documented. Ideally, the defect caused by reaming and the nail does not pass through the joint surface so that the amount of bony contact between the talus and calcaneus is maintained in order to optimize fusion. Our hypothesis is that the TTC nail does not destroy a significant amount contact area between the talus and calcaneus. However, using larger diameter nails (which are inherently stronger) will have more of an effect on the contact surface. Methods: Five cadaveric below the knee specimens were obtained. The ankle was disarticulated on each specimen. Subsequently, a guidepin was drilled from the central dome of the talus down to the calcaneus. The 11 mm reamer was then passed over the guidepin through the calcaneus to simulate retrograde reaming of a TTC nail. Then, the subtalar joint was dissected open and the articular surface was documented in comparison with the area that was reamed out. Measurements were then made, using software that calculated two dimensional surface area to determine the percentage of actual subtalar joint area that was reamed out. The mean percentage of articular area that was removed with the reamer was then calculated. Results: Among the five specimens, in the calcaneus, the mean total articular area was 599mm2±113 and the mean drilled articular area was 21mm2±16. The percentage of the calcaneal articular surface that was removed with the reamer was 3.4%±1.9. In the talus, the mean total articular area was 782mm2±130 and the mean drilled articular area was 39mm2±18. The percentage of the talar articular surface that was removed with the reamer was 5.0%±2.3. Additionally, an 11 mm reamer makes a circular surface area of 95mm2, and the statistics above indicate that a significant portion of the reamed area is nonarticular, within the calcaneal sulcus or the talar sulcus. Conclusion: In a tibiotalocalcaneal nail the subtalar joint is typically incompletely visualized, however this anatomic study demonstrates that the 11 mm reamer eliminates about 3.4% of the calcaneal articular surface and about 5% of the talar articular surface. Therefore, the majority of the articular surface is left intact, which is ideal in optimizing arthrodesis outcomes. Furthermore, this study could extrapolate the effects of a larger nail on the availability of joint surface. It could also be used to argue for cartilage stripping of the affected joint surfaces in arthrodesis preparation, because the majority of the articular surface is, in fact, left intact.


2020 ◽  
Vol 5 (4) ◽  
pp. 2473011420S0019
Author(s):  
Naven Duggal ◽  
Patrick M. Williamson ◽  
Ara Nazarian

Category: Ankle; Basic Sciences/Biologics; Sports Introduction/Purpose: The biomechanics of ankle sprains involves a multiplanar-supination motion and not the strict inversion as is often described. During supination, calcaneal inversion occurs at the anatomic subtalar joint. The intrinsic subtalar ligaments include a series of broad thick ligaments situated in the tarsal canal that separate the anterior and posterior compartments. The subtalar intrinsic ligaments are damaged in an estimated 25% to 80% of all lateral ankle sprains. We hypothesize that the intrinsic subtalar ligaments have a multiplanar role in ankle joint stabilization similar to that of the anterior cruciate ligament at the knee. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of four surgical approaches to the subtalar ligaments through cadaveric dissection. Methods: Four fresh-frozen cadaveric ankle specimens were utilized. Ability to access the extrinsic lateral ankle ligament (anterior talofibular), the extrinsic subtalar ligaments (calcaneofibular, lateral talocalcaneal) and the intrinsic subtalar ligaments (interosseous talocalcaneal, cervical) was evaluated. The first cadaveric specimen was dissected as a baseline to identify the extrinsic and intrinsic subtalar ligaments. The three remaining cadaveric specimens were utilized to evaluate the efficacy of three standard surgical approaches (a curvilinear incision made over the distal anterior border of lateral malleolus, a posterolateral longitudinal incision, and an extensile sinus tarsi approach) to access both the extrinsic ankle and subtalar ligaments as well as the intrinsic subtalar ligaments. Ability to access all ligaments as well as identification of neurovascular structures at risk during the dissection was recorded for each approach. Results: The curvilinear incision made over the distal anterior border of the lateral malleolus provided access to the anterior talofibular, calcaneofibular ligaments. Branches of the superficial peroneal nerve were noted to be at direct risk. The posterior longitudinal incision provided access to the calcaneofibular, lateral talocalcaneal ligaments. Branches of the sural nerve were noted to be at direct risk with this approach. An extensile posterolateral incision improved access to the anterior talofibular ligament. An extensile sinus tarsi approach provided the most direct access to the interosseous talocalcaneal and cervical ligaments. Visualization of the calcaneofibular and lateral talocalcaneal was also provided with this incision. The saphenous and superficial nerve branches and the sinus tarsi artery were noted to be at risk. Conclusion: We hypothesize that the intrinsic subtalar ligaments have a multiplanar role in ankle joint stabilization similar to that of the anterior cruciate ligament at the knee. Accurate identification and optimal surgical approach to these structures has not been well described in the orthopaedic foot and ankle literature. This cadaveric study provides evidence that an extensile sinus tarsi approach can provide access to the extrinsic ankle and subtalar ligaments as well as the intrinsic ligaments of the subtalar joint.


2019 ◽  
Vol 4 (4) ◽  
pp. 2473011419S0021
Author(s):  
Naohiro Hio ◽  
Atsushi Hasegawa ◽  
Satoshi Monden ◽  
Masanori Taki ◽  
Kazuhiko Tsunoda ◽  
...  

Category: Hindfoot, Trauma Introduction/Purpose: As a result of arthropathy change on the lateral side of subtalar joint after intra-articular calcaneal fracture, the secondary disorders such as pain or restricted range of motion occasionally occur. The purpose of this study is to examine factors that cause such arthropathy change. Methods: We divided 23 joints into two groups according to arthropathy change of the lateral side of subtalar joint: the existence of such arthropathy (O) group included 8 joints, the absence of arthropathy (N) group included 15 joints. The patients’ mean age at the time of surgery were 49.1 years and 54.9 years respectively, and the mean follow-up period were 16.1 months and 12.4 months respectively. The anterolateral approach or the sinus tarsi approach was used for both groups, and the medial approach was combined as needed. The fixing materials were a plate or screws, and in some cases, staples and Kirschner wires were used in combination. We assessed Sanders classification, postoperative clinical evaluation using Creighton-Nebraska scale, and the width, height and dislocation of subtalar joint surface of calcaneus. Results: The breakdown of the Sanders classification is as follows: N group consists of 3 joints of type 2A, 7 of type 2B, 3 of type 2C, 1 of type 3BC, 1 of type 4. O group consists of 5 joints of type 2A, 2 of type 2B, 1 of type 2C. The proportion occupied by Sanders classification type 2A in O group was larger than in N group. The average of the postoperative clinical evaluation was 94.9points in N group, 86.9points in O group. In postoperative image evaluation, the mean width in the was 106.2% in N group, 117.1% in O group, the mean dislocation of the subtalar joint surface was 0.4 mm in N group and 1.1 mm in O group. Conclusion: It was suggested that Sanders type 2A and the residual dislocation of the subtalar joint surface may be a cause of arthropathy change on the lateral side of subtalar joint.


2019 ◽  
Vol 4 (4) ◽  
pp. 2473011419S0013
Author(s):  
Karthikeyan Chinnakannu ◽  
Eildar Abyar ◽  
Haley M. McKissack ◽  
Martim Pinto ◽  
Aaradhana J. Jha ◽  
...  

Category: Ankle, Arthroscopy, Basic Sciences/Biologics Introduction/Purpose: Subtalar fusion is the treatment of choice for subtalar arthritis when conservative management fails. Subtalar fusion can be done through open approach or arthroscopic technique. Arthroscopic technique is associated with rapid recovery; however, it requires adequate training and skill. Arthroscopic technique can be done through lateral or posterior portals. Sometimes it may be necessary to use accessory portal to open or distract the joint for adequate joint preparation. Use of accessory portal may result in injury to the neurovascular structure. Whatever the technique, one of the most important aspects of fusion is adequate preparation of the joint. Aim of our study is to compare the preparation of subtalar joint using sinus tarsi open approach and posterior subtalar scopy using 2 portal technique in cadaveric specimens. Methods: We used 20 below knee fresh-frozen cadaver legs for this cadaveric study. Subtalar joints of ten specimens were prepared through the lateral approach, while the remaining ten joints were prepared using sinus tarsi incisions. After the completion of preparation, all ankles were dissected open, photographic images of calcaneal and talar articular were taken. (Image)Surface areas of each articular facet and prepared area of the talus, distal tibia, and distal fibula were measured and analyzed. Results: Open technique results in better preparation of joint surface in calcaneus and overall. While open technique results in preparation of 92% joint surface (combined talus and calcaneus), arthroscopic technique results in in 80% of joint surface. Open technique results in better preparation of calcaneus (79vs 94%). The anterolateral corner of calcaneus was difficult to be reached using the scope and unprepared in most cases. There was no significant difference in the preparation of talar articular surface. (Table 1) Conclusion: Open sinus tarsi results in more joint preparation compared to 2 portal posterior arthroscopic technique. The less amount of joint preparation in arthroscopic technique is mostly due to less preparation of AL corner. Of calcaneus. When using posterior arthroscopic technique, it is advisable to use accessory portal to distract the joint to aid in adequate preparation.


Author(s):  
Chul Hyun Park ◽  
Hongfei Yan ◽  
Jeongjin Park

Aims No randomized comparative study has compared the extensile lateral approach (ELA) and sinus tarsi approach (STA) for Sanders type 2 calcaneal fractures. This randomized comparative study was conducted to confirm whether the STA was prone to fewer wound complications than the ELA. Methods Between August 2013 and August 2018, 64 patients with Sanders type 2 calcaneus fractures were randomly assigned to receive surgical treatment by the ELA (32 patients) and STA (32 patients). The primary outcome was development of wound complications. The secondary outcomes were postoperative complications, pain scored of a visual analogue scale (VAS), American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score, 36-item Short Form health survey, operative duration, subtalar joint range of movement (ROM), Böhler’s angle and calcaneal width, and posterior facet reduction. Results Although four patients (12.5%) in the ELA groups and none in the STA group experienced complications, the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.113). VAS and AOFAS score were significantly better in the STA group than in the ELA group at six months (p = 0.017 and p = 0.021), but not at 12 months (p = 0.096 and p = 0.200) after surgery. The operation time was significantly shorter in the STA group than in the ELA group (p < 0.001). The subtalar joint ROM was significantly better in the STA group (p = 0.015). Assessment of the amount of postoperative reduction compared with the uninjured limb showed significant restoration of calcaneal width in the ELA group compared with that in the STA group (p < 0.001). Conclusion The ELA group showed higher frequency of wound complications than the STA group for Sanders type 2 calcaneal fractures even though this was not statistically significant.


2021 ◽  
pp. 107110072110413
Author(s):  
Matthias Aurich ◽  
Mark Lenz ◽  
Gunther O. Hofmann ◽  
Wiebke Schubert ◽  
Matthias Knobe ◽  
...  

Background: Lateral lengthening calcaneal osteotomy (LL-CO) is commonly performed as a treatment for an abducted midfoot in pes planovalgus deformity. The purpose of this study is to investigate potential damage to medial structures with a sinus tarsi LL-CO. Methods: Sixteen cadaver feet were used. Eight feet had an extended lateral approach, and 8 had a limited lateral (sinus tarsi) approach. All underwent a sinus tarsi LL-CO. Specimens were then dissected to identify inadvertent injury to medial structures. Results: Sinus tarsi LL-CO was associated with damage to the sustentaculum tali and medial articular facets in 56% and 62.5% of specimens, respectively. No anterior or posterior facet injuries were found, although 56% of specimens had a confluent medial and anterior facet. Conclusion: Damage to the medial articular facet and sustentaculum is possible with a flat cut sinus tarsi LL-CO due to the curved nature of the relevant sinus tarsi and canal anatomy. Clinical Relevance: Sinus tarsi LL-CO needs to be performed with caution since damage to the subtalar joint is possible. Level of Evidence: Level II, prospective cohort study.


2015 ◽  
Vol 34 (1) ◽  
pp. 83-93 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jay Smith ◽  
Eugene Maida ◽  
Naveen S. Murthy ◽  
Eugene Y. Kissin ◽  
Jon A. Jacobson

2019 ◽  
Vol 2019 ◽  
pp. 1-6
Author(s):  
Fei Yang ◽  
Kai Feng ◽  
Yuehua Sun ◽  
Kerong Dai ◽  
Xiaoqing Wang ◽  
...  

The previous anterior approach to the elbow provides a limited exposure of the coronoid process. The aim of this study was to identify the optimal exposure interval for coronoid fractures from the anterior aspect of elbow. We exposed the coronoid process on twelve fresh-frozen cadaveric elbows from the anteromedial aspect of the elbow. The dissection intervals used were the novel brachial artery-median nerve interval (B-M interval) and the previously reported biceps tendon-brachial artery interval (B-B interval). Access to key anatomic landmarks around the coronoid process was assessed and the exposed surface area of coronoid process was calculated in each specimen. The average exposed surface area of coronoid process was 2.26 times greater with the B-M interval (4.58 cm2) compared with the B-B interval (2.03 cm2) (p < 0.05). All key anatomic landmarks around the coronoid process were directly visualised via the B-M interval in each specimen. In conclusion, the anteromedial approach through the B-M interval provides a more extensive exposure of the coronoid process than the traditional B-B interval. This new approach can be useful for the fixation of coronoid fractures.


2020 ◽  
Vol 5 (4) ◽  
pp. 2473011420S0039
Author(s):  
John C. Prather ◽  
John Wilson ◽  
Eildar Abyar ◽  
Sean Young ◽  
Gerald McGwin ◽  
...  

Category: Hindfoot; Trauma Introduction/Purpose: The lateral extensile approach (LEA) to the calcaneus has long been a popular surgical approach to treat calcaneal fractures. However, high rates of wound complications have led surgeons to investigate alternative approaches. As a result, the sinus tarsi approach has grown in popularity. The lateral extensile approach affords substantial visualization of the calcaneus. However, this visualization has never been compared in a quantitative manner to the sinus tarsi approach (STA). The objective of this cadaveric study is to compare calcaneal visualization afforded by a sinus tarsi approach and a lateral extensile approach. Methods: Seven pair-matched, fresh-frozen, below-knee cadaver specimens were obtained. For each pair, one side received an LEA and the other side received a STA. To identify areas of the calcaneus accessible by instrument, a curette was used to mark the visualized calcaneal surfaces. The calcaneus was then disarticulated and cleared of all soft tissue. The curette markings were then identified and marked with blue surgical marker. Photos were taken of each calcaneus, and visualized surface areas were calculated using Image J software. Results: There were no statistically significant differences in the articular surfaces accessible between the two approaches (831.99 mm2 for LEA vs. 903.41 mm2 for STA, p=0.53) including the anterior, middle, and posterior facets. The total calcaneal surface area accessible was 3107.08 mm2 for LEA and 1444.19 mm2 for STA (p=0.02). The LEA allowed better exposure to the lateral wall (p<0.01) and superior greater tuberosity of the calcaneus (p=0.05). Conclusion: In comparison to the LEA, the STA allows for equivalent exposure to articular surfaces. While the LEA allows for greater exposure of the lateral wall and posterior tuberosity, direct visualization of these structures may not warrant the higher risk of wound complications. Surgeons should be mindful of these differences when choosing a surgical approach in the treatment of calcaneal fractures.


2001 ◽  
Vol 22 (5) ◽  
pp. 426-432 ◽  
Author(s):  
Major Kenneth F. Taylor ◽  
Captain John A. Bojescul ◽  
Robin S. Howard ◽  
Mark S. Mizel ◽  
Colonel Kathleen A. McHale

Fifteen fresh-frozen cadaveric lower extremities were studied to evaluate the reliability of measuring subtalar motion using a bubble inclinometer. There was high intra-observer reliability for manual inversion and eversion of the subtalar joint with the tibiotalar joint locked and unlocked. Poor correlation of radiographic and clinical measurements questioned the validity of bubble inclinometer measurements. The contribution of the tibiotalar joint to apparent subtalar motion, as measured clinically and radiographically, was found to be one-third of the arc of motion, as compared to motion measured clinically and radiographically with the tibiotalar joint locked.


Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document