Type 3A
The next step of the SUPERankle is to perform the osteotomies. The specific osteotomy depends on the type of FH. In the Type 3A case, this involves a supramalleolar osteotomy of the tibia—bone cut above the ankle joint. Dr. Paley now performs a trapezoidal wedge rather than an opening wedge. A bone graft is then inserted. The bone graft is usually an allograft.
Supramalleolar osteotomy, including lengthening of the Achilles tendon and insertion of K-wires
Insertion of bone graft into the opening wedge of the supramalleolar osteotomy
The next step of the SUPERankle is to perform the osteotomies. The specific osteotomy depends on the type of FH. In the Type 3A case, this involves a supramalleolar osteotomy of the tibia—bone cut above the ankle joint. Dr. Paley now performs a trapezoidal wedge rather than an opening wedge. A bone graft is then inserted. The bone graft is usually an allograft.
Advancement of K-wires
Soft tissue repair
The final step of the SUPERankle will be applying an external fixator and cutting the bone at the apex of the tibial bend. As the lengthening occurs, straightening of the tibia is carried out by a gradual correction of the tibial bend using a computer-controlled external fixator called the Taylor Spatial Frame (TSF). The patient is given an adjustment schedule to start lengthening usually five to seven days after surgery.
Application of the external fixator with osteotomy and straightening and lengthening of the tibia