Impact of Subtalar Distraction Arthrodesis on Ankle Joint: Radiological Insights from Modified Grice–Green Procedure

Abstract

Subtalar distraction arthrodesis (SDA) is a surgical procedure designed to treat hindfoot deformities associated with isolated subtalar joint arthritis. In 1996, Fitzgibbons was the first to observe that, in some cases, hindfoot fusion appeared to be associated with the development of tibiotalar valgus tilt. Since then, few studies have addressed this issue. Given that hindfoot fusion can be performed using various techniques, this study investigated the potential tibiotalar joint frontal or sagittal modifications resulting from the modified Grice–Green technique. All the consecutive patients who underwent the modified Grice–Green procedure were included. The patient records were reviewed to extract demographic data. Weight-bearing foot and ankle radiographs were assessed to measure the talar tilt angle and the tibiotalar ratio on the same picture archiving and communication system by three independent observers. A total of 69 patients met the criteria for inclusion. The mean talar tilt showed no substantial changes, since the increase from 1.46 ± 1.62 preoperatively to 1.93 ± 2.19 at a minimum of 8 months postoperatively was not statistically significant (p = 0.47). The average preoperative tibiotalar ratio significantly increased from 33.4 ± 4.4% to 35 ± 4% postoperatively (p = 0.007), although remaining within the normal range, indicating a possible realignment of the posterior facet of the subtalar joint. In conclusion, this study highlights the effectiveness of the modified Grice–Green procedure in achieving a favorable realignment without impacting the ankle joint, particularly regarding tibiotalar valgus tilt.