Long-term results of subtalar arthroereisis for the treatment of symptomatic flexible flatfoot in children: an average fifteen year follow-up study

Aim of the study: The aim of this study is to report the long-term outcomes of a homogenous series of patients who underwent subtalar arthroereisis (STA) for the treatment of symptomatic flexible flatfoot (FFF). Methods: Thirty-four pediatric patients who underwent STA with a bioabsorbable implant were enrolled and radiographic measurements, clinical outcomes, and patients' satisfaction were evaluated. Results: At a mean 180 months follow-up, radiographic measurements showed significant improvement. A physiological footprint and a proper hindfoot alignment were shown in more than 70% of patients. Mean AOFAS score was 90.4 ± 9.2 (72-100), mean SF-12 was 44.7 with 30 out of 34 patients (88.2%) satisfied with the procedure. Conclusion: STA with a bioabsorbable implant showed satisfactory long-term results. Based on the data subgroup analysis, nine to 11.5 years for female and nine to 13.5 years for male appeared to be the most appropriate age for surgery.