Diagnosis of tarsal coalition with computed tomography.

The value of computed tomography in the diagnosis of tarsal coalition is reported in six patients, five with talocalcaneal coalition and one with calcaneonavicular coalition. The examination is technically easy to perform with the patient in the supine position and the knees flexed, and it allows simultaneous visualization of both sides. Because of these features and an ability to distinguish between bony and cartilaginous or fibrous fusion, computed tomography appears to be the method of choice for diagnosis of coalition involving talus and calcaneus. It is less useful in other types of coalition.