Posterior tibial tendon transfer in the spastic brain-damaged adult does not lead to valgus flatfoot

Abstract Background We studied the possible development of valgus flat foot after transfer of the posterior tibial tendon to the lateral cuneiform, used for surgical restoration of dorsiflexion in brain-damaged adult patients with spastic equinovarus foot. Methods Twenty hemiplegic patients were reviewed with a mean postoperative follow-up of 57.9 months. Weightbearing radiographs, static baropodometry analysis and functional evaluation were used to assess postoperatively outcomes. Results On the operated side, weightbearing radiographs showed an absence of medial arch collapse and a symmetrical and physiological hindfoot valgus; static baropodometric analysis showed a reduced plantar contact surface with a pes cavus appearance. The surgical procedure yielded good functional results. Nineteen patients were satisfied with the outcome of their surgery. Conclusions Our findings support that transfer of the posterior tibial tendon does not lead to valgus flat foot in the spastic brain-damaged adult, and is still a current surgical alternative for management of spastic equinovarus foot.