Topographic anatomy of the retrocalcaneal space for hind foot endoscopy

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study is to describe the topograph- ic anatomy of retrocalcaneal space in the form of radar chart in

which the relationships between the retrocalcaneal structures are expressed in centimeter distances and angle degrees. Material and Method The retrocalcaneal space was studied by three methods: cadaveric dissection, computed topography (CT) scan with soft tissue reconstruction and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). The relationship between five points was studied in each method. Point A: Achilles tendon insertion. Point B: Flexor halluces longus tendon, Point C: posterior process of talus, Point D: peroneal tendons, point E: Posterior tibial artery. Results A radar chart was created by data obtained. The suran nerve was seen crossing the lateral border of Achilles tendon at a distance of 9.38 cm form the insertion of Achilles tendon. The mean AB distance was 2.9 cm (± 0.29), the mean AC distance was 2.73 (± 0.22), the mean AD distance was 3.07 (± 0.14), the mean AE distance was 2,85 cm (± 0.26). The mean EAB angle was 16.7 degrees (± 0.33), the mean CAD angle was 42.8 (± 0.25), the mean EAD angle was 81.9 (± 0.21). Conclusion The measurements obtained from the anatomical dissection and radiological analysis of the retrocalcaneal space

could be used to create a radar chart. On this chart the rela- tionship between the different anatomical structures was

expressed in millimeters and angles which can be used as a guide during the different hind foot endoscopic surgeries.