Arthroereisis is a minimally invasive orthopedic procedure aimed at correcting abnormal foot alignment. During the intervention, a special implant is placed into the subtalar joint to limit excessive motion and restore the correct axis of the foot. This method is widely used in the treatment of plano-valgus foot deformity, especially in children and adolescents, but it may also be effective in adult patients.
Indications for the procedure
Arthroereisis is recommended when conservative treatment methods (orthopedic insoles, therapeutic exercises, physiotherapy) fail to produce sufficient improvement. The main indications include:
- Plano-valgus foot deformity in children (flexible flatfoot);
- Pain and rapid fatigue during walking;
- Gait disturbances associated with excessive pronation;
- Persistent foot deformity in adults with no response to other treatment options.
The procedure is particularly effective in the early stages of deformity, when the changes are still reversible.
Procedure characteristics
The implant inserted into the sinus tarsi (the space between the talus and calcaneus) acts as a motion limiter. It stabilizes the position of the talus and prevents its excessive inward displacement. The implantation is performed through a small incision, without osteotomy or direct bone intervention.
The procedure usually takes about 20–30 minutes and does not require prolonged hospitalization. In children, the implant is typically removed after 1–2 years, once stable foot alignment has been achieved.
Rehabilitation after arthroereisis
Recovery is relatively fast. Patients are generally advised to:
- Limit weight-bearing activities for 2–3 weeks;
- Wear orthopedic footwear;
- Perform therapeutic exercises under medical supervision;
- Attend scheduled follow-up examinations.
Full adaptation to a physiological gait usually takes between 1 and 3 months, depending on age and individual characteristics.
Main advantages of arthroereisis in Belarus
Belarusian clinics offer modern approaches to the surgical correction of foot deformities. The key advantages of undergoing arthroereisis in Belarus include:
- Use of certified European implants;
- High level of orthopedic specialist training;
- Wide availability of minimally invasive surgical techniques;
- Comfortable inpatient and follow-up care conditions;
- An optimal balance between treatment cost and quality.
Arthroereisis in Belarus is performed in modern medical centers equipped with advanced surgical instruments. Specialists apply minimally invasive techniques, allowing patients to recover quickly and avoid more extensive surgical interventions.
