lhanson@michaelreesefoundation.org

I have pes plano valgus (flexible flat feet), which is becoming progressively worse with age. My podiatrist has recommended surgery, using a conical subtalar implant by future biomedical. Does anyone know where I can find information on the risks associated with the surgery, and if there are any chat rooms where I may be able to ask people, who have had this type of surgery, what their experience was like? thanks.

Dear Linda,
The conical subtalar implant for pesplanovalgus is not an uncommon procedure for pesplanovalgus. In the past it has been popularly used in the child and adolescence group and has shown excellent results for flatfeet. More recently it has been used in the adult population. The function of the implant is to lift the head of the talus. The procedure is actually very straight forward to perform, reqiures very little dissection and is usually not a long procedure.Typically, as with any procedure, the possible complications are pain, swelling, infection, reoccurence of deformity and implant breakage/reaction. It would be difficult for me to tell you if this is the right procedure for you, because I have not evaluated you, nor have I seen your x-rays. Your surgeon would be the best judge. However, if you have any doubts, go for a second opinion.

Good-luck and thank-you for contacting foot.com,
SBarlizo, DPM
foot.com expert

Thanks for the feedback. I appreciate it.

Dear Linda,
Good-luck.

SBarlizo, DPM