Tarsal coalition resections: a long-term retrospective analysis of 97 resections in 78 patients

Abstract Background Resection of tarsal coalitions provides good patient satisfaction scores, reduced pain, and improved long-term function in both athletic and non-athletic populations. This study aimed to determine when athletic patients undergoing resection of a tarsal coalition were able to return to their desired activity, and whether they experienced a decreased desired activity level (DDA). Methods Data on a total of 78 patients who underwent 97 tarsal coalition resections (49 talocalcaneal coalitions, 47 calcaneo-navicular, 14 cuboid-navicular, and three cuneo-navicular; some patients had more than one coalition) operated between January 2001 and June 2020 were prospectively collected. To subjectively assess outcomes, the Roles and Maudsley score (RM) was utilized. Results At an average follow-up from the index procedure of 33.6 ± 41.5 months, return to activity for the entire cohort was 18.3 ± 9.6 weeks. Post-RM was 1.3 ± 0.6. Conclusion Surgical excision of tarsal coalitions produced favorable results, with most patients able to return to their desired activity level. Level of evidence IV.