Publication
Title
Relationship of the Scarf valgus-inducing osteotomy of the calcaneus to the medial neurovascular structures
Author
Abstract
The Scarf valgus inducing osteotomy of the calcaneus is an operative technique to correct varus deformity of the hindfoot. It is versatile with significant corrective power; however, the neurovascular structures are in close proximity on the medial side and thus may be harmed during the osteotomy. Moreover, because this type of osteotomy can cause a great lateral translation, traction of the medial neurovascular structures is possible. We performed an anatomic study to evaluate the medial soft tissues after a lateralizing Scarf-type calcaneal osteotomy. Materials and Methods: The osteotomies were carried out on ten fresh-frozen cadaver specimens. We performed the osteotomy and induced valgus. Then we performed a medial dissection to identify the important medial structures: the medial and lateral plantar nerve (MPN , LPN) and the posterior tibial artery (PTA). We noted their relation to the osteotomy and their integrity. Results: In several cases, one or more of the structures were sectioned. In five cases, all the structures crossed the osteotomy, four of which even a transection of one or both of the plantar nerves occurred. Although the PTA crossed the osteotomy in eight specimens, there was no transection of this structure. Conclusion: Scarf osteotomy of the calcaneus is a highly corrective osteotomy. However, caution must be exercised when performing as the medial neurovascular structures cross the osteotomy lines and transection can occur. Clinical Relevance: When performing the osteotomy one should keep in mind that vigorous sawing and large displacement can cause damage to the medial neurovascular structures.
Language
English
Source (journal)
Foot and ankle international. - Baltimore, Md
Publication
Baltimore, Md : 2011
ISSN
1071-1007
DOI
10.3113/FAI.2011.0540
Volume/pages
32 :5 (2011) , p. 540-544
ISI
000290139700012
Full text (Publisher's DOI)
UAntwerpen
Faculty/Department
Research group
Publication type
Subject
Affiliation
Publications with a UAntwerp address
External links
Web of Science
Record
Identifier
Creation 24.06.2011
Last edited 15.11.2022
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