Arthrodesis for the cavus foot: when, where, and how?

Abstract

When the cavus foot has become rigid, midfoot and triple arthrodesis may be the only reasonable surgical options left. The apex of the deformity is multiplanar and some deformities may have more than one apex. The best outcomes are achieved with minimal shortening of the foot, so correction should be by rotation and translation and with minimal wedge resection wherever possible. Posterior tibial tendon transfer and peroneus longus transfer are nearly always required for correction. If the principles of soft tissue balancing are followed, arthrodesis is an excellent procedure despite the literature that states to the contrary.