Abstract

Purpose: To determine the clinical and radiographic results of arthroereisis using the $Kalix^{(R)}$ implant (Newdeal, Lyon, France) for the treatment of flexible flatfoot deformity. Materials and Methods: From February 2005 to February 2007, we performed the subtalar arthroereisis on 8 patients (9 feet) of symptomatic flexible flat feet after more than 6 months of conservative treatment. Average age was 14.5 years ($11{\sim}29$ years) old. We checked the functional status with AOFAS functional score pre-operatively and at final follow-up. Radiologically, we took weight bearing anterior to posterior and lateral view of the feet, and measured the talo-first metatarsal angle, calcaneal pitch angle in pre-operatively and at final follow-up. Results: Mean follow up period was 34.4 months. Average AOFAS score improved from preoperatively 65.6 to postoperatively 94.8. Average lateral talo-first metatarsal angle reduced from $12.8^{\circ}$ preoperatively to $1.6^{\circ}$ at final follow-up. Average anterior to posterior talo-first metatarsal angle was reduced from $15.1^{\circ}$ preoperatively to $8.3^{\circ}$ at final follow-up. Average calcaneal pitch angle was increased from $9.5^{\circ}$ preoperatively to $12.0^{\circ}$ at final follow-up. Conclusions: Subtalar arthroereisis with Kalix$K^{(R)}$ implant can be considered to be one of treatment options symptomatic flatfoot deformity patients.

Keywords

• Flatfoot;
• Arthroereisis$Kalix^{(R)}$