The stop screw technique--a simple and reliable method in treating flexible flatfoot in children.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the stop screw method inserted with a minimal invasive technique in the treatment of flexible flatfoot in children.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We evaluated the results in a series of 21 flat feet in the age group ranging from 8 to 14 years between 1999 and 2007. The correction was evaluated clinically by assessment of heel valgus angle, range of motion of the ankle joint, and the photopodographic grading. The radiological assessment was performed by measuring the talonavicular angulation (Meary's line).

RESULTS

At time of follow-up there was significant improvement in the heel valgus angle during rest and during tiptoe standing, significant improvement in the dorsiflexion from neutral position, and in podographic grading. Radiologically talonavicular angulation improved significantly from 162+/-8.9 degrees preoperatively to 174+/-5.8 degrees postoperatively.

CONCLUSION

We can conclude that subtalar arthroereisis is relatively simple, effective, and minimally invasive procedure in treating flexible flatfoot in pediatric age.