Background
Post-traumatic subtalar arthritis is one of the most common complications of calcaneal fracture. Subtalar arthritis with its sequel may not meet the patient’s needs or lifestyle and has a huge impact on the work force and society. The aim of this study was to evaluate the results of arthroscopic subtalar arthrodesis using two posterior portals in patients with subtalar arthritis type 1 Zwipp classification after calcaneal fracture.
Patients and methods
A prospective study was carried out on 15 heels in 15 consecutive patients with subtalar arthritis type 1 Zwipp classification after a calcaneal fracture for which nonoperative treatment had failed; arthroscopic subtalar arthrodesis was performed using cannulated screws.
Results
The average postoperative American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society hind foot score was 89.2 (range: 81–95; <0.01), which is significantly high. The average postoperative visual analogue scale score was 2.4 (range: 1–4). The union rate was 100%.
Conclusion
Isolated subtalar arthrodesis using two posterior portals yields good functional results, high safety, and efficacy and a low complication rate with significant clinical improvements as a salvage procedure of G1 post-traumatic subtalar arthritis. Level of Evidence: IV.