Diagnosis of tarsal coalitions

Abstract

Tarsal coalitions (TC) are congenital abnormal connections of the rearfoot bones. They occur in 1 to 13 % of all population. The article deals with the features of clinical and instrumental diagnosis of TC according to the literature. The main clinical manifestations are pain syndrome in the subtalar area, rigid flat foot; peroneal spastic flat foot is possible. Radiographic imaging of TC includes direct and indirect signs. To verify bone coalition, computed tomo-graphy is indicated, in cases of cartilaginous and fibrous — magnetic resonance imaging. Despite the long history of studying the problem, the diagnosis of TC remains a live issue today. Difficulties in diagnosing this pathology are due to the lack of physicians’ awareness of the clinical and radiographic picture of TC. Classical orthopedic exa-mination and suspicion of possible TC will allow detecting pathology in time and avoiding inappropriate treatment. The use of modern imaging techniques, such as computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, helps increase the accuracy of TC diagnosis.