Isolated Subtalar Distraction Arthrodesis Using Porous Tantalum: A Pilot Study.
BACKGROUND
During reconstructive procedures of the hindfoot, a structural graft is often needed to fill gaps. To eliminate donor site morbidity and limited availability of autografts, porous tantalum was used.


METHODS
Eighteen patients who underwent subtalar joint distraction arthrodesis by means of trabecular metal augment were reviewed retrospectively. The results were evaluated clinically, with the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) score and the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, and were assessed radiologically. The mean follow-up period was 18 months.


RESULTS
Computed tomography showed sound fusion. There was a marked increase in AOFAS scores and a decrease in VAS scores. Arthrodesis was achieved in all cases with no major postoperative complications. Radiographically, there was a marked increase in all measured parameters (talocalcaneal angle, talocalcaneal height, talar declination angle), and the intraoperatively achieved correction was maintained at the last follow-up visit.


CONCLUSIONS
Our data suggest that porous tantalum may be used as a structural graft option for subtalar arthrodesis.


METHODS
Level IV, retrospective case series.
Third Department of Orthopaedics, University of Athens Medical School, KAT Hospital, Athens, Greece.
Eustratios A
EA
Papadelis
Third Department of Orthopaedics, University of Athens Medical School, KAT Hospital, Athens, Greece karapana@yahoo.com.
Panagiotis K
PK
Karampinas
Third Department of Orthopaedics, University of Athens Medical School, KAT Hospital, Athens, Greece.
Eustratios
E
Kavroudakis
Third Department of Orthopaedics, University of Athens Medical School, KAT Hospital, Athens, Greece.
John
J
Vlamis
Third Department of Orthopaedics, University of Athens Medical School, KAT Hospital, Athens, Greece.
Vasilios D
VD
Polizois
Third Department of Orthopaedics, University of Athens Medical School, KAT Hospital, Athens, Greece.
Spiros G
SG
Pneumaticos
D000328:Adult; D001174:Arthrodesis / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D016348:Osseointegration; D010865:Pilot Projects; D016062:Porosity; D019736:Prostheses and Implants; D011859:Radiography; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013380:Subtalar Joint / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D013635:Tantalum
D013635:Tantalum
porous tantalum; subtalar arthrodesis