Evaluation of pediatric flatfoot treatment results with new type of implant

Abstract

Introduction and Purpose:

Optimal methods of treating the flat feet have been searched for many years. Summarizing the latest medical reports, more and more often the method of choice in dynamic disorders are minimally invasive procedures consisting in supporting and stabilizing the displaced talus with an implant inserted into the tarsal sinus. The aim of the study is to evaluate the results of treatment of flat foot in two groups of patients operated on with different types of implants.

Materials and methods:

The study included 120 patients treated for the flat foot. All children underwent ankle bone stabilization with a titanium implant inserted into the tarsal sinus. The patients were divided into 2 research groups according to the type of implant used. The patients were clinically examined, and a retrospective analysis of medical records and pre- and postoperative radiological images was performed. The gait after correction of the defect was analyzed in the gait laboratory. The loads and pressure of individual components of the operated foot were compared.

Results:

In a clinical trial, improvements in the appearance and function of the foot were observed in both groups. On postoperative radiological images, in about 78% of patients, the measurement of the angles was within the normal range. In both groups, the load and the pressure of individual components of the operated feet obtained a significant improvement, no differences were found.

Conclusions:

Correction of the flat foot in children with the use of an implant improves the alignment of the foot and reduces pain. In some cases, the lengthening of the gastrocnemius muscle aponeurosis is an indispensable procedure and significantly improves the mobility of the foot and the final effect.