Transfer versus Lengthening of the Posterior Tibial Tendon in Duchenne's Muscular Dystrophy

Abstract

Transfer of the posterior tibialis tendon to the dorsum of the foot was compared with lengthening of this tendon in 15 patients with Duchenne's muscular dystrophy. Patients undergoing tendon transfer ( N = 9) had a longer operating time and two perioperative complications, but retained plantigrade posture of their feet even after walking ceased. By contrast, lengthening of the posterior tibialis tendon (A/ = 6) was associated with a recurrent equinovarus foot deformity that frequently interfered with shoe wear. Although transfer of the posterior tibialis is out of phase and technically more demanding, the unique prolongation of posterior tibialis strength in Duchenne's muscular dystrophy makes this operation a better option for these patients.