Tuber-to-Anterior Process Angle (TAPA): A cadaveric study and surgical technique for placing axial calcaneal screws.

Abstract

We describe results of a cadaveric study and an accompanying surgical technique which simplifies posterior-to-anterior axial screw placement into the calcaneus, often utilized during fixation of displaced intra-articular calcaneus fractures or calcaneal osteotomies. By defining the Tuber-to-Anterior Process Angle (TAPA), this technique facilitates axial screw placement, thereby decreasing reliance on intraoperative fluoroscopy and reducing operative time.