Talar Arthroscopic Reduction and Internal Fixation (TARIF): A Novel All-Inside Soft-Tissue-Preserving Technique.

Background: Talar arthroscopic reduction and internal fixation (TARIF) is an alternative approach for the operative fixation of talar fractures that may be utilized instead of more traditional open approaches such as medial, lateral, or even dual anterolateral. The TARIF approach allows for nearly anatomic fracture reduction and fixation of talar neck, body, and posterior dome fractures while minimizing the soft-tissue stripping and vascular injury associated with the standard anterolateral approach. Description: Following initial closed fracture reduction and any associated procedures, we recommend obtaining computed tomography scans of the injured ankle in order to evaluate the fracture pattern and allow for preoperative planning. Most patients can be positioned prone for this procedure, except for those with fractures associated with anterior loose bodies and those with neck fractures requiring reduction, which are both amenable to lateral positioning Alternatives: Alternatives include the standard anterolateral approach to fixation or dual anterior approach, a medial or lateral approach, and external fixation with interval operative fixation. Rationale: TARIF is indicated for reduction of a wide variety of talar fractures, including neck, body, and posterior facet fractures, and offers the added advantage of minimizing the soft-tissue stripping and vascular injury associated with the standard anterolateral approach. Additionally, TARIF is well suited for patients with a compromised soft-tissue envelope or associated vascular injury, such as those with open-fracture pathology, because the approach avoids further disruption of these tissues. The overall aim of the procedure is to obtain adequate fracture reduction while avoiding the neurovasculature and soft-tissue envelope that would commonly be encountered anteriorly. The procedure is completed through 2 incisions, a posteromedial portal and a posterolateral portal, through which the fracture is visualized, reduced, and fixated using cannulated screws. The fixated talus is tested through its range of motion while under arthroscopy and fluoroscopy to ensure adequate fixation while preserving range of motion. Expected Outcomes: The TARIF procedure has been shown to successfully treat many complex talar fractures Important Tips: Immediately after accessing the ankle via the operative portals, identify the flexor hallucis longus tendon to prevent iatrogenic injury to the neurovascular bundle.Plantar flexion of the ankle while applying anterior force to the talar body often aids in reduction.Place the medial guidewire directly adjacent to the flexor hallucis tendon in order to ensure that it is medial enough.Utilize anterior-to-posterior fluoroscopic images of the foot and ankle to ensure screw placement.Directly visualize the fracture site as the screws are sequentially tightened in order to prevent malalignment.Countersink all screw heads and directly verify with arthroscopic visualization. Acronyms & Abbreviations: MVC = motor vehicle collisionXR = x-ray (radiograph)CT = computed tomographyEx-fix = external fixatorMRI = magnetic resonance imagingFT = fully threadedFHL = flexor hallucis longusAP = anteroposteriorROM = range of motionDVT = deep vein thrombosisBID = bis in die (twice daily dosing).