Lateral Column Lengthening (Evans Osteotomy) for Adult Acquired Flatfoot

Do you have flat feet or fallen arches? This common condition often develops from an early age and cause foot pain later in life. Lateral column lengthening (Evans Osteotomy) for adult acquired flatfoot is a surgical procedure designed to modify the shape of the foot and create an arch. Many people living with fallen arches don’t realize treatment options are available.

Flat feet are often associated with ankle and knee pain – it can also alter your ideal leg alignment. If you’re experiencing such pain you may require surgery to correct this condition. Surgery can dramatically change the shape of your foot. Consult with your doctor today and take the first step toward full recovery.

Surgical Procedure

Your surgeon will position you to allow for optimum visibility. Anesthesia will be administered to ensure you experience no pain throughout the course of the procedure. The surgical area of the foot will be sterilized before the incision is made.

The incision will be made along the outside of the foot to gain access to the calcaneus or heel bone. The surgeon will utilize a cutting instrument to divide the calcaneus just behind the joint where it meets the cuboid toward the mid-foot. These two pieces are then spread apart using a metal or bone graft wedge. The bone graft may be taken from a portion of your hip or from an outside donor.

The surgeon will lock this wedge in place with the aid of a metal plate and screws. As the bone graft fuses to the calcaneus over time, this newly created wedge will ultimately lengthen the outside of your foot and create an arch on the inner side.

Following Surgery

The incision will be closed and your foot will carefully be bandaged. Your doctor will give you post-operative instructions following the procedure, typically mandating a cast for anywhere between 6-12 weeks. In some cases a walking boot may be necessary.