Triple arthrodesis through a single lateral approach: a cadaveric experiment.

Using a single lateral approach, triple arthrodesis was performed on six cadaveric feet. An attempt was made to obliterate the talocalcaneal, talonavicular, and calcaneocuboid joints. The limbs were subsequently disarticulated to allow for an inspection of the talonavicular, talocalcaneal, and calcaneocuboid joints. An estimate of cartilage and subchondral bone removed from each articular surface was made by a single observer (J.V.B.) by direct visual inspection. Results were as follows: calcaneocuboid joint, 90% of cartilage removed; talocalcaneal joint, 80% of cartilage removed; talonavicular joint, 38% of cartilage removed. Failures at the talonavicular joint were attributed to a poor appreciation of the anatomy of the talar head and poor observation. Complications involved in obliteration of the talonavicular joint from a single lateral approach included: inadvertent division of the talar neck; inadvertent division of the talar head; removal of excessive bone stock; medial skin punctures; and creation of an iatrogenic cut through the talar dome. Therefore, a triple arthrodesis through a single lateral approach, as described by Ryerson, Hoke, and Campbell, cannot be recommended. The talonavicular joint should be approached through an auxiliary medial incision, as recommended by Cracchiolo. This paper documents the experience of a beginner with this operation, and demonstrates the value of using the anatomy laboratory.