TARSAL COALITION RESECTION

If you need a Tarsal Coalition Resection, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.

What Is A Tarsal Coalition Resection?

Tarsal coalition resection is a surgical procedure performed to treat a tarsal coalition—a condition where two or more tarsal bones in the foot are abnormally fused together, leading to limited foot movement, pain, and discomfort. Tarsal coalitions are typically congenital (present at birth) and can cause problems in adolescence or adulthood when the bones stop growing and the fusion becomes more rigid.

The tarsal bones are a group of seven bones located in the middle and hindfoot regions of the foot. The most commonly affected joints in tarsal coalition are the talocalcaneal (between the talus and calcaneus) and calcaneonavicular (between the calcaneus and navicular) joints.

Tarsal coalition resection involves the following steps:

1. Anesthesia: The patient is usually given general anesthesia (to put them to sleep) or regional anesthesia (to numb the lower body) before the surgery.
2. Incision: The surgeon makes an incision over the affected tarsal coalition to access the fused bones.
3. Bone separation: The surgeon carefully separates the fused tarsal bones, restoring mobility and function to the affected joints.
4. Bone removal: In some cases, a small portion of the bone may be removed to ensure complete separation and prevent recurrence of the fusion.
5. Soft tissue adjustments: The surgeon may also make adjustments to the surrounding soft tissues, ligaments, or tendons to achieve proper alignment and stability of the foot.
6. Closure: After the tarsal coalition resection and any necessary soft tissue adjustments are completed, the incision is closed with sutures, and the surgical site is dressed and bandaged.

Post-operatively, the patient may need to use crutches or a walker for a period of non-weight-bearing on the affected foot to allow for proper healing of the surgical site. A cast or a specialized boot may also be used to protect the foot during the initial healing phase.

Recovery from tarsal coalition resection involves rest, elevation, and gradual return to weight-bearing activities under the guidance of a foot and ankle specialist. Physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises are essential to regain strength, flexibility, and function in the foot during the recovery process.

Tarsal coalition resection is generally considered an effective treatment for tarsal coalition, as it can relieve pain, restore foot mobility, and improve overall foot function. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications, including infection, delayed wound healing, and the possibility of recurrent coalition formation.

The decision to undergo tarsal coalition resection is made after a thorough evaluation and discussion with an orthopedic surgeon or a foot and ankle specialist, who will assess the individual’s specific condition, medical history, and overall health to determine if the procedure is the appropriate treatment option.

If you would like to speak to an Orthopedic Specialist, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us over the web. Tele-medicine appointments are also available.