Subtalar Arthrodesis: Indications, Incision & recovery

When chronic ankle and hindfoot pain disrupts your daily activities and conservative treatments no longer provide relief, subtalar arthrodesis may be the solution you need. This specialized surgical procedure has transformed the lives of thousands of patients suffering from debilitating subtalar joint conditions. At Sports Orthopedics Institute in Bangalore, our experienced orthopedic surgeons perform this advanced fusion procedure using state-of-the-art techniques to restore mobility and eliminate pain.

Understanding Subtalar Arthrodesis: What You Need to Know

Subtalar arthrodesis, also known as subtalar fusion or talocalcaneal fusion, is a surgical procedure that permanently joins the talus and calcaneus bones in the hindfoot. The subtalar joint, located beneath the ankle joint, plays a crucial role in foot biomechanics by allowing approximately 30 degrees of inversion and 15 degrees of eversion during normal walking.

This joint fusion procedure involves removing damaged cartilage from the joint surfaces and securing the bones together using screws, plates, or other fixation devices. The primary goal is to eliminate painful motion at the arthritic joint while restoring proper hindfoot alignment, ultimately providing patients with a stable, pain-free foundation for mobility.

The Anatomy of the Subtalar Joint

The subtalar joint complex consists of three distinct articulations between the talus and calcaneus:

Posterior facet: The largest and most clinically significant articulation, accounting for approximately 70% of subtalar joint surface area
Middle facet: Located anteriorly and medially
Anterior facet: The smallest articulation

Understanding this anatomy is essential for appreciating why subtalar arthrodesis remains the gold standard treatment for isolated subtalar pathology. The procedure specifically targets the posterior facet, which bears the majority of load during weight-bearing activities.

Clinical Indications for Subtalar Arthrodesis

Determining whether you're a candidate for subtalar arthrodesis requires comprehensive evaluation by an experienced orthopedic surgeon. The procedure is indicated for various conditions that cause significant pain, instability, or deformity in the hindfoot.

Primary Indications

Post-Traumatic Arthritis Following intra-articular calcaneus fractures, post-traumatic arthritis develops in 30-75% of patients, even after anatomic reduction. This remains the most common indication for subtalar fusion, particularly in younger, active individuals who experience persistent pain despite conservative management. Ankle arthritis following calcaneal fractures can be particularly debilitating.

Primary Osteoarthritis Degenerative changes in the subtalar joint cause progressive cartilage loss, leading to bone-on-bone contact and severe pain. When conservative treatments including medications, injections, and bracing fail to provide adequate relief, surgical intervention becomes necessary.

Inflammatory Arthropathies Rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and other inflammatory conditions can selectively affect the subtalar joint, causing synovitis, cartilage destruction, and progressive deformity. These patients often require earlier surgical intervention due to the aggressive nature of inflammatory joint disease.

Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction (PTTD) Advanced stages of PTTD with fixed hindfoot valgus deformity and subtalar arthrosis may require isolated subtalar arthrodesis, particularly in older or obese patients where more complex reconstruction procedures carry higher risk.

Tarsal Coalition Symptomatic tarsal coalition that has failed conservative management or prior coalition resection may benefit from subtalar fusion to eliminate pain and restore stable hindfoot mechanics.

Subtalar Instability Chronic subtalar instability following severe ankle injuries can lead to recurrent pain, giving way episodes, and secondary arthrosis. When ligamentous reconstruction is not feasible, arthrodesis provides definitive stability.

Avascular Necrosis Osteonecrosis of the talus or calcaneus, often following trauma or associated with systemic conditions like sickle cell disease or chronic steroid use, may necessitate fusion when joint-preserving treatments fail.

Patient Selection Criteria

Ideal candidates for subtalar arthrodesis typically present with:

Severe, activity-limiting pain localized to the subtalar joint
Failed conservative treatment for at least 3-6 months
Preserved or correctable hindfoot alignment (for in-situ fusion)
Adequate bone stock without significant bone loss
Realistic expectations about postoperative function
Willingness to comply with prolonged non-weight-bearing protocols

The procedure is particularly well-suited for younger patients with isolated subtalar pathology who wish to maintain an active lifestyle. At our Sports Orthopedics facility, we evaluate each patient individually to determine the most appropriate surgical approach.

Surgical Approaches and Incision Techniques

The choice of surgical approach for subtalar arthrodesis depends on multiple factors including the underlying pathology, presence of deformity, previous surgical history, and surgeon preference. Each approach offers distinct advantages and potential limitations.

Sinus Tarsi Approach (Ollier Approach)

The sinus tarsi approach remains the most commonly utilized technique for isolated in-situ subtalar arthrodesis without significant deformity.

Incision Details A longitudinal incision measuring 4-6 cm extends from just distal to the tip of the lateral malleolus toward the base of the fourth metatarsal, directly over the sinus tarsi. This incision placement provides excellent visualization of the posterior facet while minimizing soft tissue dissection.

Surgical Technique After skin incision, the extensor digitorum brevis muscle belly is carefully reflected inferiorly and anteriorly to expose the sinus tarsi. The peroneal tendons must be identified and protected throughout the procedure. The sinus tarsi contents including fat pad, cervical ligament, and interosseous talocalcaneal ligament are excised to expose both the anterior and posterior facets.

Advantages

Direct access to posterior facet of subtalar joint
Preserves important neurovascular structures
Lower risk of wound complications compared to extensile approaches
Allows excellent visualization for joint preparation
Facilitates both anterior-to-posterior and posterior-to-anterior screw fixation

Ideal Candidates This approach works best for patients with preserved Böhler's angle, normal talar declination, and minimal to no hindfoot deformity requiring correction.

Lateral Approach

The lateral approach utilizes a curvilinear incision extending from the lateral malleolus to the calcaneocuboid joint, often following pre-existing extensile lateral incisions from prior calcaneal fracture fixation.

Incision Placement The incision begins approximately 2-3 cm proximal to the lateral malleolus and curves distally and inferiorly, extending toward the anterior process of the calcaneus. In revision cases, the previous incision can often be incorporated.

Technical Considerations This approach provides extensive exposure of the lateral subtalar joint, lateral wall of the calcaneus, and calcaneocuboid joint. It's particularly useful when lateral wall decompression or hardware removal is necessary concurrently with fusion.

Clinical Applications

Calcaneal malunions requiring lateral wall exostectomy
Patients with previous extensile lateral approaches
Cases requiring simultaneous calcaneocuboid arthrodesis
Severe varus or valgus deformity correction

Medial Approach

Less commonly employed, the medial approach provides access to the medial and sustentacular facets of the subtalar joint.

Incision Description A longitudinal incision is placed directly over the medial facet of the talocalcaneal joint, posterior to the posterior tibial tendon and neurovascular bundle. Careful dissection protects the posterior tibial neurovascular structures.

Specific Indications

Medial facet coalition resection with arthrodesis
Severe valgus deformity requiring medial-sided correction
Isolated medial facet pathology

Posterior Approach

The posterior Achilles-splitting approach provides excellent exposure for distraction bone block arthrodesis when significant bone loss or deformity exists.

Surgical Anatomy A midline posterior incision allows splitting of the Achilles tendon in its sagittal plane, providing direct access to the posterior aspect of the subtalar joint. This approach facilitates insertion of structural bone grafts for height restoration.

Advantages for Complex Cases

Superior access for distraction arthrodesis
Ability to correct significant varus or valgus deformity
Facilitates bone graft placement for height restoration
Provides excellent visualization for deformity correction

Special Considerations This approach requires meticulous Achilles tendon handling to prevent postoperative complications. It's typically reserved for complex reconstructive cases with significant bone loss or deformity.

Arthroscopic Approaches

Arthroscopic subtalar arthrodesis has gained popularity as a minimally invasive alternative to open techniques, demonstrating excellent fusion rates and reduced soft tissue morbidity.

Posterior Two-Portal Technique The patient is positioned prone with the foot hanging off the end of the operating table. A posterolateral portal is placed 1-2 cm proximal to the lateral malleolus, lateral to the Achilles tendon. The posteromedial portal is positioned at the same level but medial to the Achilles, requiring careful dissection to avoid the posterior tibial neurovascular bundle and flexor hallucis longus tendon.

Anterolateral Approach (ALAPSTA) This technique utilizes an anterior portal 1-5 mm distal to the lateral malleolus and a middle portal in the sinus tarsi region. The anterolateral approach offers advantages including supine patient positioning and lower neurologic complication risk.

Indications for Arthroscopic Technique

Isolated subtalar arthritis without deformity
No significant bone loss requiring grafting
Primary arthrodesis (better visualization than revision cases)
Patients seeking minimally invasive option with potentially faster recovery

Contraindications

Severe hindfoot malalignment requiring correction
Significant bone loss necessitating structural grafting
Prior arthroscopic procedures with extensive scarring
Surgeon inexperience with arthroscopic techniques

Subtalar Arthrodesis Complications: Understanding and Prevention

Like all surgical procedures, subtalar arthrodesis carries inherent risks. Understanding potential complications enables better patient counseling and implementation of preventive strategies.

Nonunion

Nonunion, defined as failure of the bones to fuse, represents one of the most significant complications with reported rates ranging from 4-12% depending on technique and patient factors.

Risk Factors

Tobacco smoking (strongest modifiable risk factor)
Diabetes mellitus
Peripheral vascular disease
Chronic corticosteroid use
Avascular necrosis
Inadequate joint preparation
Insufficient or inappropriate fixation
Patient noncompliance with weight-bearing restrictions

Prevention Strategies Comprehensive joint preparation down to bleeding subchondral bone, rigid internal fixation with appropriate screw configuration, and strict adherence to postoperative protocols significantly reduce nonunion risk. Smoking cessation at least 6 weeks before surgery is absolutely essential.

Management Symptomatic nonunion typically requires revision arthrodesis with bone grafting and enhanced fixation. Autologous bone graft from the iliac crest or proximal tibia provides optimal biology for achieving union.

Malunion

Malunion occurs when the subtalar joint fuses in suboptimal alignment, creating hindfoot varus or valgus deformity.

Clinical Consequences Even minor malposition can significantly impact adjacent joints, leading to:

Accelerated ankle joint arthritis
Midfoot pain and arthritis
Difficulty with shoe wear
Gait abnormalities
Lateral ankle instability (with varus malunion)
Medial ankle pain (with valgus malunion)

Optimal Fusion Position The ideal subtalar fusion position includes 5 degrees of hindfoot valgus when viewed from behind, with the foot plantigrade and the heel beneath the mechanical axis of the tibia. Slight posterior translation of the calcaneus relative to the talus is acceptable.

Prevention Meticulous intraoperative positioning with fluoroscopic confirmation in multiple planes prevents malunion. Using the contralateral foot as a template helps achieve symmetrical alignment.

Infection

Surgical site infection occurs in approximately 2-5% of subtalar arthrodesis procedures, with higher rates in patients with diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, or prior wound complications.

Superficial vs. Deep Infection Superficial infections involving skin and subcutaneous tissue typically respond to oral antibiotics and local wound care. Deep infections involving the fusion site or hardware require more aggressive treatment including surgical debridement, parenteral antibiotics, and potentially hardware removal after fusion has occurred.

Preventive Measures

Appropriate preoperative antibiotic prophylaxis
Meticulous sterile technique
Gentle soft tissue handling to preserve blood supply
Layered wound closure without tension
Postoperative wound monitoring and care

Nerve Injury

Neurologic complications can significantly impact patient satisfaction despite successful arthrodesis.

Sural Nerve The sural nerve, running along the lateral border of the foot, is at highest risk during lateral and sinus tarsi approaches. Injury can cause numbness along the lateral foot or painful neuroma formation. Careful subcutaneous dissection and nerve identification minimize this risk.

Superficial Peroneal Nerve Branches of the superficial peroneal nerve crossing the surgical field during anterolateral approaches require identification and protection.

Posterior Tibial Nerve The posterior tibial neurovascular bundle is at risk during posterior and posteromedial portal placement in arthroscopic procedures. Adherence to safe portal positioning and use of blunt dissection techniques reduces injury risk.

Hardware Complications

Prominent or painful hardware occurs in 10-17% of patients following subtalar arthrodesis.

Common Issues

Lateral malleolar irritation from screw heads
Heel pad prominence causing plantar discomfort
Hardware breakage (usually indicates nonunion)
Allergic reaction to metallic implants (rare)

Management Hardware removal after confirmed fusion can effectively address symptomatic prominence. This typically occurs 12-18 months after the index procedure once solid fusion is achieved.

Adjacent Joint Arthritis

Subtalar arthrodesis alters hindfoot biomechanics, potentially accelerating degenerative changes in adjacent joints.

Affected Joints

Ankle joint: Studies show variable results, with some demonstrating increased ankle arthritis over long-term follow-up
Talonavicular joint: Experiences increased stress due to loss of coupled motion
Calcaneocuboid joint: May develop progressive arthrosis

Impact on Function Despite theoretical concerns, most patients experience significant functional improvement. Studies demonstrate that subtalar arthrodesis reduces total hindfoot motion by approximately 50%, but many patients compensate adequately through increased midfoot motion.

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)

CRPS, formerly known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy, is a rare but potentially devastating complication characterized by severe pain, swelling, temperature changes, and autonomic dysfunction.

Incidence and Management CRPS occurs in less than 2% of hindfoot arthrodesis procedures. Early recognition and aggressive treatment including physical therapy, medications, and occasionally sympathetic nerve blocks optimize outcomes.

Wound Complications

Wound healing problems including dehiscence, delayed healing, and necrosis occur more frequently in hindfoot surgery due to tenuous blood supply and high mechanical stress.

High-Risk Patients

Smokers
Diabetics
Patients with peripheral vascular disease
Previous wound complications
Immunosuppressed individuals

Risk Reduction Careful incision planning, avoiding excessive tension on wound edges, meticulous hemostasis, and appropriate patient selection minimize wound complications.

Surgical Technique: Step-by-Step Procedure

Understanding the surgical technique helps patients appreciate the precision and complexity involved in subtalar arthrodesis.

Preoperative Planning

Comprehensive imaging including weight-bearing radiographs, CT scanning, and occasionally MRI guides surgical planning. These studies help determine:

Extent of arthrosis
Degree of deformity
Bone quality and presence of cysts
Optimal approach and fixation strategy

Joint Preparation

Meticulous joint preparation represents the most critical step determining fusion success. All cartilage must be removed down to healthy, bleeding subchondral bone using a combination of:

Curved and straight osteotomes
Curettes of varying sizes
High-speed burr for sclerotic bone
Arthroscopic shavers (in arthroscopic technique)

The goal is creating opposing bone surfaces with maximum contact area and healthy biology. Multiple small perforations (fenestrations) through the subchondral plate enhance bone marrow access and biological healing response.

Bone Grafting

While not always necessary in standard in-situ fusion, bone grafting enhances fusion rates in high-risk patients or complex reconstructive cases.

Autograft Sources

Iliac crest: Provides large volumes of excellent quality bone
Proximal tibia: More convenient access with less donor site morbidity
Local bone from lateral wall exostectomy: Readily available in calcaneal malunion cases

Bone Graft Substitutes Demineralized bone matrix, calcium sulfate, and bone morphogenetic proteins may augment autograft or serve as alternatives when autograft is unavailable or inappropriate.

Fixation Methods

Rigid internal fixation maintains joint compression and alignment during the healing process.

Screw Fixation Most commonly, 2-3 large cannulated screws (6.5-8.0 mm diameter) provide compression across the fusion site. Optimal screw configuration includes:

One screw from posterior-inferior calcaneus into talar body
One screw from posterior-lateral calcaneus into talar neck
Optional third screw for rotational stability

The screws should be divergent to maximize stability and avoid creating a single axis of rotation.

Plate Fixation In complex cases with poor bone quality or significant deformity, plate fixation supplementing or replacing screw fixation may be necessary. Modern anatomic plates offer excellent stability but require more extensive dissection.

Specialty Implants Staples, nitinol compression devices, and other specialty implants provide alternatives in specific scenarios, though screws remain the gold standard for most cases.

Postoperative Protocol and Recovery Timeline

Immediate Postoperative Period (0-2 Weeks)

Following surgery, the foot is placed in a well-padded plaster splint with the ankle in neutral position and the foot slightly inverted. Patients remain strictly non-weight-bearing and are instructed to:

Elevate the leg above heart level to minimize swelling
Apply ice intermittently (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off)
Take prescribed pain medications as directed
Perform gentle ankle and toe range of motion exercises

The first dressing change and wound check occur within 7-10 days. At this visit, sutures are often removed (if nonabsorbable) and the splint is replaced with a removable walking boot, though weight-bearing remains restricted.

Early Recovery Phase (2-6 Weeks)

Patients continue non-weight-bearing or touch-down weight-bearing only, progressing gentle range of motion exercises for the ankle and toes. Physical therapy may begin to maintain strength in the hip and knee while protecting the fusion site.

Follow-up radiographs at 6 weeks assess early healing and hardware position. Barring complications, patients may begin partial weight-bearing in a walking boot if early radiographic signs of healing are present.

Intermediate Phase (6-12 Weeks)

Progressive weight-bearing continues with gradual transition from boot to supportive shoe. Most patients achieve full weight-bearing by 10-12 weeks, though fusion continues maturing. Our comprehensive rehabilitation programs guide patients through this critical period.

Return to Activities (3-6 Months)

Complete radiographic fusion typically requires 12-16 weeks, though some patients demonstrate delayed union extending to 6 months. Return to unrestricted activities, including impact sports, requires:

Documented radiographic union on CT scan
Full, pain-free weight-bearing
Restored strength and proprioception
Surgeon clearance

Athletes and highly active individuals may require 6-12 months before returning to competitive sports or demanding physical activities.

Long-Term Outcomes

Studies consistently demonstrate 85-95% good to excellent results following subtalar arthrodesis, with most patients reporting:

Significant or complete pain relief
Improved function and activity levels
High satisfaction rates
Ability to return to desired recreational activities
Stable, plantigrade foot position

American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot scores typically improve from preoperative averages of 40-50 to postoperative scores of 75-85, representing substantial functional gains.

Open vs. Arthroscopic Subtalar Arthrodesis: Making the Right Choice

The decision between open and arthroscopic technique depends on patient-specific factors and surgeon expertise.

Arthroscopic Advantages

Minimal soft tissue disruption
Lower infection rates (approximately 1-2% vs 3-5% for open)
Reduced postoperative pain
Potentially faster recovery
No wound complications
Excellent cosmesis
Faster return to work (by 2-4 weeks on average)

Open Technique Advantages

Superior for deformity correction
Allows bone grafting for height restoration
Better visualization in revision cases
Facilitates hardware removal
Surgeon familiarity (lower learning curve)
Applicable to broader range of pathology

Comparative Outcomes

Recent systematic reviews and meta-analyses demonstrate comparable fusion rates between techniques (approximately 95% for both), with arthroscopic showing trends toward:

Lower complication rates (8-12% vs 15-20%)
Faster time to union (10 weeks vs 13 weeks average)
Higher AOFAS scores at final follow-up (81 vs 77 on average)

However, selection bias likely influences these results, as arthroscopic cases typically involve less complex pathology.

Special Considerations and Advanced Techniques

Distraction Bone Block Arthrodesis

When calcaneal malunion results in significant height loss and altered talar declination angle, distraction bone block arthrodesis restores anatomy while achieving fusion.

Technique Overview A structural bone graft, typically from the iliac crest, is interposed between the prepared talus and calcaneus, restoring calcaneal height and correcting talar declination. Multiple screws maintain the graft position during healing.

Indications

Bohler's angle less than 10 degrees
Talar declination angle greater than 45 degrees
Subfibular impingement
Loss of calcaneal height greater than 1 cm

Outcomes Studies report 85-90% fusion rates with this technique, with mean height restoration of 8-12 mm and talar declination correction averaging 10-15 degrees.

Subtalar Arthrodesis in Flat Foot Deformity

Adult-acquired flatfoot deformity secondary to posterior tibial tendon dysfunction may require subtalar arthrodesis, particularly in stage 3-4 disease or elderly/obese patients.

Surgical Approach Subtalar fusion directly corrects hindfoot valgus and reduces stress on incompetent posterior tibial tendon. Additional procedures may include:

Lateral column lengthening
Medializing calcaneal osteotomy
Flexor digitorum longus transfer
Gastrocnemius recession

Patient Selection Ideal candidates have flexible deformity that corrects to neutral or slight valgus with manipulation, minimal talonavicular or calcaneocuboid arthrosis, and realistic expectations.

Revision Subtalar Arthrodesis

Failed primary fusion or symptomatic nonunion requires careful evaluation and strategic revision planning.

Diagnostic Workup CT scanning definitively identifies nonunion and characterizes bone loss. Inflammatory markers and occasionally bone biopsy rule out infection. SPECT-CT localizes pain generators in patients with atypical symptoms.

Revision Strategies

Enhanced joint preparation with fenestration
Bone grafting (autograft preferred)
Revision fixation with larger or more screws
Alternative fixation (plates if initial screws)
Address modifiable risk factors (smoking cessation, diabetes optimization)

Expected Outcomes Revision arthrodesis achieves union in 80-90% of cases when infection is excluded and risk factors are addressed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Subtalar Arthrodesis

How long does subtalar arthrodesis surgery take?

The procedure typically requires 60-90 minutes for straightforward in-situ fusion using open technique. Arthroscopic procedures may take slightly longer (90-120 minutes) due to technical demands. Complex cases requiring bone grafting, deformity correction, or concurrent procedures may extend to 2-3 hours.

Is subtalar arthrodesis painful?

Like any orthopedic surgery, patients experience significant pain initially, typically well-controlled with multimodal pain management including nerve blocks, oral medications, and ice. Pain progressively diminishes over the first 2-3 weeks. Most patients describe the pain as very manageable by 4-6 weeks postoperatively.

Can I walk after subtalar arthrodesis?

Weight-bearing restrictions are essential for fusion success. Most protocols require 6-12 weeks of strict non-weight-bearing or touch-down weight-bearing only. Progressive weight-bearing begins around 6-8 weeks based on radiographic healing. Full unrestricted weight-bearing typically occurs by 10-14 weeks.

What is the success rate of subtalar arthrodesis?

Modern techniques achieve fusion rates of 90-96% in primary procedures. Patient satisfaction rates range from 85-93%, with most individuals experiencing significant pain relief and functional improvement. Revision procedures have slightly lower but still acceptable success rates of 80-85%.

Will I be able to return to sports after subtalar fusion?

Many patients successfully return to recreational sports and fitness activities following subtalar arthrodesis. Low-impact activities like swimming, cycling, and golf are generally well-tolerated. High-impact sports including running, basketball, and tennis may be possible but depend on individual healing, adjacent joint health, and activity modification. Competitive athletes face more challenges but many achieve satisfactory return to sport with appropriate expectations.

How does subtalar fusion affect my gait?

Subtalar arthrodesis eliminates approximately 50% of total hindfoot motion, primarily affecting inversion and eversion. Most patients adapt well, with gait studies showing minimal changes on flat surfaces. Uneven terrain may present more challenges, and some individuals notice difficulty with certain movements. However, the trade-off of eliminating severe pain for mild functional limitation is acceptable to most patients.

What are alternatives to subtalar arthrodesis?

Conservative treatments including orthotics, bracing, activity modification, anti-inflammatory medications, and corticosteroid injections should be exhausted before considering surgery. Surgical alternatives depend on the underlying pathology and may include arthroscopic debridement, osteochondral grafting (for limited lesions), or ankle arthrodiastasis (distraction). For advanced arthritis, arthrodesis remains the most reliable option.

Can hardware be removed after fusion?

Once solid fusion is confirmed (typically 12-18 months postoperatively), symptomatic hardware can be safely removed. This secondary procedure is straightforward and most patients recover within 4-6 weeks. Approximately 10-15% of patients ultimately request hardware removal due to discomfort.

How long before I can drive after surgery?

Patients can typically resume driving once they've discontinued narcotic pain medications, achieved adequate motor control, and can perform emergency braking safely. For right foot surgery, this usually occurs around 8-12 weeks. Left foot surgery patients who drive automatic transmission vehicles may return to driving earlier (4-6 weeks) under surgeon supervision.

What is the difference between subtalar arthrodesis and ankle fusion?

Subtalar arthrodesis fuses the joint between the talus and calcaneus beneath the ankle, while ankle arthrodesis (tibiotalar fusion) fuses the joint between the tibia and talus. These are separate joints with different functions. Subtalar fusion preserves ankle joint motion (up and down), whereas ankle fusion preserves subtalar motion (side to side). The procedures address different pathologies and have distinct functional outcomes.

Why Choose Sports Orthopedics Institute for Subtalar Arthrodesis?

At Sports Orthopedics Institute in Bangalore, our team brings over 25 years of specialized experience in complex foot and ankle reconstruction. Dr. Naveen Kumar L.V., with multiple international fellowships and board certifications, has performed thousands of successful hindfoot procedures using both traditional open and advanced arthroscopic techniques.

Our comprehensive approach includes:

Advanced Imaging and Diagnostics: State-of-the-art CT and MRI technology for precise surgical planning
Minimally Invasive Options: Arthroscopic expertise for appropriate candidates
Customized Treatment Plans: Individualized surgical strategies based on patient-specific factors
Multimodal Pain Management: Modern protocols minimizing opioid dependence
Specialized Rehabilitation: Dedicated physiotherapy programs optimizing recovery
Long-Term Follow-Up: Commitment to your complete recovery and satisfaction

Our Commitment to Excellence

We understand that choosing to undergo subtalar arthrodesis represents a significant decision affecting your quality of life. Our patient-centered approach ensures you receive:

Thorough education about your condition and treatment options
Clear communication throughout the treatment process
Access to cutting-edge surgical techniques and technology
Compassionate, personalized care from consultation through recovery
Support from experienced staff dedicated to your wellbeing

Schedule Your Consultation Today

If you're experiencing chronic hindfoot pain that limits your daily activities, don't wait to seek expert evaluation. Early consultation allows for comprehensive assessment and discussion of all treatment options, from conservative management to surgical intervention.

Contact Sports Orthopedics Institute to schedule an appointment with our experienced orthopedic specialists. We serve patients throughout Bangalore from our convenient HSR Layout location, offering flexible appointment times to accommodate your schedule.

Contact Information:

Phone: +91 6364538660, +91 9008520831
Location: 1084, 2nd Floor, Shirish Foundation, 14th Main, 18th Cross, Sector 3, HSR Layout, Bengaluru - 560102
Email: sportsorthopedics.in@gmail.com

Take the first step toward pain-free mobility and improved quality of life. Our team is ready to help you explore whether subtalar arthrodesis is the right solution for your condition.

Conclusion

Subtalar arthrodesis remains a highly successful procedure for eliminating pain and restoring function in patients with severe subtalar joint pathology. Understanding the indications, surgical approaches, potential complications, and expected outcomes empowers patients to make informed decisions about their care.

Modern techniques, including both open and arthroscopic approaches, offer excellent fusion rates with predictable results. While the procedure requires commitment to postoperative protocols and temporary activity restrictions, most patients experience significant improvement in pain and function, with satisfaction rates exceeding 85%.

Whether you're dealing with post-traumatic arthritis, primary osteoarthritis, or another condition affecting your subtalar joint, expert evaluation and treatment planning are essential for optimal outcomes. At Sports Orthopedics Institute, our experienced team stands ready to guide you through every step of your journey toward restored mobility and improved quality of life.

Medical References and Resources

Journal of Foot and Ankle Surgery - Arthroscopic Subtalar Arthrodesis Systematic Reviews
American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) Clinical Practice Guidelines
Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery - Long-term Outcomes Following Subtalar Fusion
Foot & Ankle International - Complications in Hindfoot Arthrodesis
Arthroscopy Techniques - Minimally Invasive Subtalar Fusion Approaches
Journal of Orthopaedic Trauma - Post-Traumatic Arthritis Management
PMC National Library of Medicine - Isolated Subtalar Arthrodesis Techniques

Related Educational Resources

For more information about foot and ankle conditions and treatments, explore our comprehensive Bone & Joint School resources, where you'll find detailed information about:

This article is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Individual results may vary. Please consult with a qualified orthopedic surgeon to discuss your specific condition and treatment options.

Subtalar Arthrodesis: Indications, Complications & Approach