Reconstructive surgery for complete talus extrusion using the sandwich block arthrodesis: a report of 2 cases

J Foot Ankle Surg. 2007 Nov-Dec;46(6):493-8. doi: 10.1053/j.jfas.2007.08.008.

Abstract

Total extrusion of the talus is a rare and severe injury of the foot. If the talus is viable and can be repositioned, the outcome is unpredictable and mainly depends on whether infection and/or avascular necrosis ensues. If the talus is actually missing, the surgeon is faced with extensive bone loss and destruction of the ankle. In this report, we present 2 cases of total talus extrusion treated with the sandwich block tibiocalcaneal arthrodesis with structural autografts harvested from iliac crest. The surgical technique is reviewed in detail, and its application in 2 male patients who had a complete talus fracture-dislocation and a dislocation, respectively, is described. Follow-up after 18 years and 1 year, respectively, showed favorable clinical outcomes and only minor restrictions in daily activities. In light of these case reports, we believe that the sandwich block arthrodesis offers a useful alternative for the treatment of these serious lower extremity injuries.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Activities of Daily Living
  • Adult
  • Arthrodesis / methods*
  • Bone Screws
  • Bone Transplantation / methods
  • Calcaneus / surgery
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Fractures, Bone / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Joint Dislocations / surgery*
  • Male
  • Plastic Surgery Procedures / methods*
  • Talus / injuries*
  • Talus / surgery
  • Tibia / surgery
  • Treatment Outcome