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Calcaneal (Lateral Column) Lengthening

Why is this surgery recommended?

  • Correct a flat foot or outward rotation of the foot
  • Improve positioning of the foot

What happens during surgery?

Your child's surgeon will make a cut on the outside of the foot.

The outside of the heel bone is cut and a new piece of bone (bone graft) is inserted. This pushes the foot into a straighter position.
Often the bone graft is taken from the child’s pelvis. This requires another incision near the hip.

The new bone graft is held in place by pins that are removed 3-4 weeks after the surgery during your child’s follow up clinic visit.


Diagram of bones in right foot seen from above
Diagram of bones in right foot seen from side

Illustrations by Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare

Before surgery

X-ray of feet showing calcaneal lengthening before surgery

X-ray of feet showing calcaneal lengthening before surgery 

After surgery

 X-ray side view of right foot showing calcaneal lengthening after surgery  

SOURCE: Calcaneal (Lateral Column) Lengthening ( )
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