When performing an Evans calcaneal osteotomy, which muscle must be sharply reflected for adequate exposure?

When performing an Evans calcaneal osteotomy, which muscle must be sharply reflected for adequate exposure?

• A. ABD
• B. EDB
• C. FHL
• D. TP

Answer: (B)

In an Evans calcaneal osteotomy, the primary goal is to achieve adequate exposure of the calcaneus for the surgical procedure. The muscle that must be sharply reflected to allow for this exposure is the Extensor Digitorum Brevis (EDB). The EDB is located on the dorsum of the foot and plays a role in the extension of the toes. It overlies the calcaneus and, if not adequately reflected, can hinder the surgeon's ability to access the pertinent structures within the lateral aspect of the calcaneus that are essential for performing the osteotomy. Reflecting the EDB provides the necessary visual and physical access to the bone and surrounding tissues, facilitating the precise surgical intervention needed for correction of deformities such as lateral column overload or flatfoot. In contrast, the other muscles listed, such as the Abductor Digiti Minimi (ABD), Flexor Hallucis Longus (FHL), and Tibialis Posterior (TP), are either located in different compartments of the foot or do not obstruct access to the calcaneus in the same way. Thus, their reflection is not necessary for adequate exposure during this specific surgical procedure.

In an Evans calcaneal osteotomy, the primary goal is to achieve adequate exposure of the calcaneus for the surgical procedure. The muscle that must be sharply reflected to allow for this exposure is the Extensor Digitorum Brevis (EDB).

The EDB is located on the dorsum of the foot and plays a role in the extension of the toes. It overlies the calcaneus and, if not adequately reflected, can hinder the surgeon's ability to access the pertinent structures within the lateral aspect of the calcaneus that are essential for performing the osteotomy. Reflecting the EDB provides the necessary visual and physical access to the bone and surrounding tissues, facilitating the precise surgical intervention needed for correction of deformities such as lateral column overload or flatfoot.

In contrast, the other muscles listed, such as the Abductor Digiti Minimi (ABD), Flexor Hallucis Longus (FHL), and Tibialis Posterior (TP), are either located in different compartments of the foot or do not obstruct access to the calcaneus in the same way. Thus, their reflection is not necessary for adequate exposure during this specific surgical procedure.