The Role of Tibialis Posterior Tendon Transfer in Correction of Foot Drop Deformity

Abstract

Bac kground: The transfer of the tibialis posterior tendon to the anterior aspect
of the ankle not only replaces the function of the paralyzed muscles, but also
removes the deforming force on the medial aspect of the foot.
Objec t i ves : In this study, we evaluated patients who underwent tibialis
posterior tendon transfer for the treatment of foot drop, and comparison through
interosseous membrane route versus anterior to lower tibia route of tibialis
posterior tendon transfer, with evaluation of the results according to carayon
criteria
Methods: Nine patients with foot drop secondary to different causes treated with
tibialis posterior tendon transfer from January 2011 to January 2012 were
followed up for a mean of 12 months in Al Kindy Teaching Hospital. We use two
different techniques, first transfer the tendon through the interosseous
membrane (four patients), and the second technique transfer the tendon anterior
to tibia (five patients).
Resul t s : In general according to carayon evaluation criteria, the results were
excellent in two patients (22.2%), good in five patients (55.6%), and moderate in
two patients (22.2%). Through anterior to lower tibia route, 4 patients get
excellent to good result (80%), and through interosseous route, 3patients get
good to excellent result (75%).
Conc lus ions : Transfer of tibialis posterior tendon for the treatment of foot drop
deformity enables the patients to walk without the aid of orthosis and increase their
quality of life. With no differences between anterior to lower tibia route and through
interosseous membrane route.