Tarsal Coalition Surgery

Specialized Treatment for Rigid Flatfoot and Chronic Ankle Pain

Tarsal Coalition is a congenital condition where two or more bones in the rearfoot (tarsal bones) are abnormally connected by a bridge of bone, cartilage, or fibrous tissue. This connection, called a coalition, restricts normal foot motion, leading to a stiff, painful, and often flatfoot deformity. At The Bunion Boss Clinic, we specialize in diagnosing and surgically treating tarsal coalitions to eliminate chronic pain, restore hindfoot flexibility, and improve overall foot mechanics.

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Our Advanced Surgical Approaches

The goal of surgery is to either remove the bridge and restore motion (Resection) or stabilize the foot permanently (Fusion), depending on the severity of the condition.

1. Coalition Resection (Removal)

  • Procedure Overview: For smaller, younger, or less extensive coalitions without severe arthritis, the abnormal connection (bridge) is surgically removed. The space created is typically filled with soft tissue (like fat or muscle) to prevent the bones from growing back together.
  • Benefits: Preserves joint motion, reduces pain, and aims to restore the natural movement of the subtalar joint. This is the preferred method when feasible.

2. Arthrodesis (Joint Fusion)

  • Procedure Overview: For larger, more complex coalitions, or cases where significant secondary arthritis has already developed in the surrounding joints, a triple arthrodesis (fusion of three rearfoot joints) may be necessary to stabilize the foot.
  • Benefits: Complete pain elimination and permanent correction of the rigid flatfoot deformity, especially effective in adult patients with end-stage arthritis.

3. Advanced Techniques

  • Intraoperative Fluoroscopy: Using real-time X-ray guidance to ensure complete and precise removal of the bony bridge.
  • Soft Tissue Interposition: Carefully placing harvested soft tissue (e.g., from the extensor digitorum brevis muscle) into the resection gap to ensure the coalition does not reform.

Patient Benefits and Recovery

Successful Tarsal Coalition Surgery can dramatically improve foot function and eliminate long-standing chronic pain.

Post-Surgical Benefits

  • Elimination of Chronic Pain: Freedom from the deep, persistent pain caused by the abnormal joint movement.
  • Improved Foot Mechanics: Restoration of motion (Resection) or creation of stability (Fusion), leading to a better gait and reduced risk of compensatory issues.
  • Reduced Ankle Sprains: Stabilization of the rearfoot often eliminates the secondary instability that leads to frequent sprains.
  • Improved Mobility and Function: Restores proper biomechanics, improving gait, balance, and the ability to participate in physical activities comfortably.
  • Wider Footwear Selection: Enables comfortable use of a larger variety of shoes without constant friction, pressure, or irritation.

The Recovery Journey

  • Initial Non-Weight Bearing: Regardless of the technique, the foot is immobilized in a cast or boot, and the patient must remain non-weight bearing (using crutches or a scooter) for approximately 3-6 weeks to protect the surgical site.
  • Weight-Bearing Transition: Transitioning to a walking boot and partial weight-bearing is gradual, guided by X-ray confirmation of healing.
  • Physical Therapy: Required for both resection and fusion to maximize joint motion (resection) or strengthen the muscles supporting the stable foot (fusion).
  • Full Return to Activity: Full recovery, including a return to sports, can take 3 to 6 months, depending on the complexity of the surgery (fusion generally requires a longer timeline).

Understanding The Challenge

3D Planning

Advanced Surgical Mapping: Utilizes CT scans and specialized software to precisely locate the extent of the bony bar (coalition).

Joint Correction

Coalition Resection: Carefully removes the rigid, arthritic bony bar or cartilage bridge connecting the tarsal bones.

Gait Restoration

Soft Tissue Release: Releases restricted tendons and ligaments that have tightened due to years of rigid movement and abnormal gait.

Recovery & Rehab

Structured Immobilization: Includes casting or booting followed by a tailored non-weight-bearing phase to allow for proper initial healing.

Advanced Techniques for Optimal Outcomes

Our expertise in revision cases ensures the best chance for long-term success.

Expert Team

Minimally Invasive

Lasting Relief

Personalized Care

Take the First Step Today

Ready to take the first step toward pain-free feet?

Don’t let bunion pain control your life any longer. Our expert team is ready to guide you through a successful recovery with compassionate, specialized care.

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Call Us: 833 783 6561

Patient Reviews

Delighted patients share their stories

My experience was one of the best as i followed Dr Cedeno instructions and his treatment my plantar fasciitis issue has been resolved. Both locations are easy to find and the staff are very friendly knowledgeable and kind. If you have any type of discomfort or feet pain this is definitely the doctor for you! I am extremely pleased and grateful for Dr. Cedeno help!
Veronica
Veronica
This was my first appointment, but I found everybody including the doctor to be very friendly and caring. They ended up giving me a Steroid injection with ultrasound in my elbow. I liked them very much and will definitely go back and see them again. Dr Buzas Seems to be a very skilled physician who really cares.
Susan Gebeloff
Susan Gebeloff
Dr Cendeno was very knowledgeable, he took the time to explain my diagnosis in detail and answered all my questions. Office staff was welcoming and kind.
Nikki McCartin
Nikki McCartin
Dr Cedeno and his team are simply the best. You can tell through their practices that they truly care for patients which is hard to find these days! I highly recommend them for services.
Nikki McCartin
Nikki McCartin