Arthroscopic subtalar arthrodesis in malunited fracture calcaneus

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. The mean patient age at the time of surgery was 38 (range: 28–48) years. The average preoperative American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society hind foot score was 43.4 (range 38–57) and the average preoperative visual analogue scale was 8.6 (range: 8–9). The average follow-up period was 36 (range: 30–38) months. One patient was lost to follow-up at the 20th month. Results The average postoperative American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society hind foot score was 89.2 (range: 81–95; P 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.