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A Simple Technique for Correcting Footdrop

Suspension Tenodesis of the Tibialis Anterior Tendon to the Distal Tibia

Thomas S. Roukis, DPM ^*, Adam S. Landsman, DPM, PhD ^*, Khushroo E. Patel, MD , Marc Sloan, MD ^* and Dina Petricca, PT ^*

^* Weil Foot and Ankle Institute, Des Plaines, IL.
Sumac Surgical Associates Ltd, Des Plaines, IL.

Corresponding author: Thomas S. Roukis, DPM, Weil Foot and Ankle Institute, 1455 E Golf Rd, Ste 110, Des Plaines, IL 60016.

Abstract

Surgical correction of the footdrop deformity caused by various neuromuscular diseases is a time-honored technique, with most surgical procedures intended to correct the absence of active dorsiflexion and a concomitant cavovarus foot deformity. We describe suspension tenodesis of the tibialis anterior tendon to the distal tibia to correct the footdrop deformity. This technique is simpler to perform and more secure than transferring the distal attachment of a tendon to a new location in the foot itself or using tendon weaving techniques. In addition, compared with an ankle fusion, our technique allows for a certain amount of shock absorption during gait and is much less invasive, and a future ankle fusion could be performed if needed for full stability and definitive correction of the symptomatic footdrop. Finally, the technique we describe is easily reproducible and seems to remain stable over time. (J Am Podiatr Med Assoc 95(2): 154–156, 2005)