MORPHOLOGY OF TALAR ARTICULAR FACETS OF CALCANEUS AND ITS CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Abstract

Introduction: The middle third of the superior surface of calcaneus carries the posterior talar facet, oval and convex antero-posteriorly, for articulation with body of talus. Morphology of the facies articularis talaris of calcaneus plays an important role in statics and dynamics of the foot. This study was undertaken to introduce quantitative parameters in description of talar articular facets of calcaneus. Methods: Material for the study comprised of 200 dry (100 right, and 100 left) adult calcanei of unknown age and sex. They were obtained by maceration from cadavers in the Department of Anatomy, Government Medical College, Amritsar, India. Each calcaneum was examined for various patterns of articulating facets for talus. The data were compared with earlier studies. Results: Type I calcanei were most common (72.5%). Type II calcanei were 25.5%. Sub-type A was found in 10.5% cases, and Sub-type B were found in 15 cases. Sub-type C was not found in the present study. Type III calcanei was 1.5%, and Type IV were 0.5%. Conclusion: Configurations of articular facets influence sub-talar joint stability. Joints with two-facet configuration are comparatively more stable. This fact necessitates modifications of the surgical techniques for performing calcaneal osteotomy.