Tuber-to-Anterior Process Angle (TAPA): A cadaveric study and surgical technique for placing axial calcaneal screws. Issue 7 (July 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Stupay, Kristen L.; Briceño, Jorge; Velasco, Brian T.; Miller, Christopher P.; Kwon, John Y.
• Is Part Of: Injury. Volume 50:Issue 7(2019)
• Page Start: 1398
• Page End: 1403
• Publication Date: 2019-07
• Subjects: Tuber-to-Anterior Process Angle -- Axial calcaneal screws -- Technical tip -- Screw placement; Wounds and injuries -- Surgery -- Periodicals; Accidents -- Periodicals; Wounds and Injuries -- surgery -- Periodicals; Lésions et blessures -- Chirurgie -- Périodiques; Electronic journals; Electronic journals; 617.1
• DOI: 10.1016/j.injury.2019.05.019
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0020-1383

Abstract

Highlights: We describe a simple technique that facilitates the placement of axial calcaneal screws. The Tuber-to-Anterior Process Angle (TAPA) describes the calcaneal long-axis as it relates to the long-axis of the foot. The TAPA is approximately 10 degrees laterally deviated from the long-axis of the foot. Knowledge of this angle simplifies placement of P:A screws in the calcaneus. Understanding this relationship reduces reliance on intraoperative axial fluoroscopy and increases operative efficiency. Abstract: We describe results of a cadaveric study and an accompanying surgical technique which simplifies posterior-to-anterior axial screw placement into the calcaneus, often utilized during fixation of displaced intra-articular calcaneus fractures or calcaneal osteotomies. By defining the Tuber-to-Anterior Process Angle (TAPA), this technique facilitates axial screw placement, thereby decreasing reliance on intraoperative fluoroscopy and reducing operative time.