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Posterior Tibialis Split Transfer or Lengthening

Why is this surgery recommended?

  • A tight or spastic posterior tibialis muscle will cause the foot to point inwards and down
  • The surgery is done to
    • Correct in-toeing
    • Improve position of the foot while walking
    • Improve position of the foot in a brace or improve comfort of a brace.

What happens during surgery?

Posterior Tibialis Split Transfer

Your child's surgeon will make a cut in the inside part of the ankle.

The tendon is then divided in two. Half of the tendon is moved to the outside part of the foot and attached there. This is done to balance the forces around the ankle.

Diagram of leg and foot bones from behind. Click for larger version.

Diagram showing bones and tendons in the back of the lower leg. Click for larger version.

Tibialis Posterior Lengthening

Your child's surgeon will make a cut in the inside part of the ankle.

The tendon is made longer so that it does not pull the foot inwards.

Diagram showing bones and tendons in the back of the lower leg, with a cut in the posterior tibialis tendon. Click for larger version.

Diagram of bones and tendons in the back of the lower leg, with a gap cut into the posterior tibialis tendon. Click for larger version.

(Illustrations by Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare)


SOURCE: Posterior Tibialis Split Transfer or Lengthening ( )
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