Lateral Extensile Approach to the Calcaneus is Safe after Sinus Tarsi Incision: A Report of Two Cases. Issue 1 (January 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Udawatta, Thiran; Goodnough, Lawrence H.; Benirschke, Stephen K.
• Is Part Of: Foot & ankle orthopaedics. Volume 7:Issue 1(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-01
• Subjects: Calcaneus Fractures - Treatment -- Subtalar Arthrodesis -- Subtalar Joint Arthritis; Foot -- Surgery -- Periodicals; Ankle -- Surgery -- Periodicals; Orthopedics -- Periodicals; 617.584
• DOI: 10.1177/2473011421S00473
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2473-0114

Abstract

Category: Trauma; Hindfoot Introduction/Purpose: While the optimal surgical approach for operative treatment of calcaneus fractures is controversial. Regardless of index approach, post-injury sequelae such as malunion may require subsequent extensile exposures for reconstruction. In the tenuous soft tissues overlying the Whether a lateral extensile approach is safe following a previous sinus tarsi exposure has yet to be demonstrated. Methods: In this case report, two individuals underwent an initial sinus tarsi approach for reduction and fixation of calcaneus fractures, but went on to malunion or subtalar arthritis. A 'sham' surgery consisting of skin incision and initial flap elevation was performed to evaluate the efficacy of a lateral extensile approach to the calcaneus after previous sinus tarsi incision. Results: In each instance, the patients experienced uneventful skin incision healing, and subsequently had successful reconstruction with distraction subtalar arthrodesis via lateral extensile exposures. Conclusion: The lateral extensile approach to the calcaneus may be safely performed following sinus tarsi exposure.