lateral column lengthening
A surgical procedure that corrects flatfoot deformity by lengthening the lateral column of the foot through calcaneal osteotomy.
Full Definition
Lateral column lengthening is a reconstructive foot surgery primarily used to treat pediatric flatfoot deformities, particularly those associated with tarsal coalition or posterior tibial tendon dysfunction. The procedure involves performing an opening wedge osteotomy of the calcaneus, typically at the level of the anterior process, and inserting a bone graft to maintain the lengthening. This technique addresses the shortened lateral column that contributes to flatfoot deformity by restoring the longitudinal arch and improving foot alignment. The procedure may be combined with other soft tissue procedures depending on the specific deformity pattern.
Usage
Usage note: Sometimes referred to as Evans osteotomy after the surgeon who popularized the technique.
In Context
- "Lateral column lengthening successfully restored the longitudinal arch in this case of rigid flatfoot." — Post-operative assessment
- "The surgeon performed lateral column lengthening with structural bone graft to correct the planovalgus deformity." — Operative report