Diagnosis and treatment of flexible flatfoot: results of 2019 flexible flatfoot survey from the European Paediatric Orthopedic Society

The aim of the study was to evaluate flexible flatfoot (FFF) diagnostic and current therapeutic modalities, as well as treatment expectations, among members of the European Paediatric Orthopaedic Society (EPOS). A 59-questions survey on FFF diagnosis and treatment preferences was distributed to EPOS members. The survey consisted of six sections (1) general clinical parameters; (2) foot aspects; (3) X-ray angles (or lines); (4) expectations; (5) standard clinical assessment; and (6) management options. Descriptive statistics were performed. A total of 93 responses were analysed. In general, clinical parameters, age (91.4% of cases), laxity (81.7%), diffuse pain (84.9%), and pain at the ankle joint (81.7%) were rated as ‘average’ and ‘crucial importance’ by the vast majority of respondents. Meary’s angle (47.3% of cases), talonavicular coverage (35.5%), and lateral talocalcaneal angle (35.5%) were assessed as main radiological tools in the FFF evaluation. Among respondents, 61.3% rated ‘improved ability to walk longer without symptoms’ as of ‘crucial importance’. Eighty-two percent of the respondents felt less than 10% of patients with FFF are candidates for corrective surgery. Arthroereisis (29.3%) was the most common surgical procedure (16.4% for subtalar and 12.9% for extra-articular arthroereisis, respectively), followed by lateral column lengthening (17.9%) and medializing calcaneal osteotomy (12.3%). There is great variation among respondents in diagnost...
Source: Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics B - Category: Orthopaedics Tags: Foot & Ankle Source Type: research