Ultrasound evaluation of adult‐acquired flatfoot deformity: Emphasis on the involvement of spring ligament

Abstract

Adult‐acquired flatfoot deformity ( AAFD ), a condition commonly caused by tibialis posterior tendon ( TPT ) dysfunction, has recently been recognised to encompass a spectrum of other deformities, including the disruption of the spring ligament complex. This case series reviews eight examples of chronic AAFD , outlines the sonographic assessment of the TPT and spring ligament and depicts various abnormalities of the TPT and spring ligament that are relevant to AAFD . The importance to always include the spring ligament during the assessment of AAFD will be addressed, as misdiagnosis of the involvement of the spring ligament could lead to inappropriate operative management.