Davis Method

DAVIS METHOD (Davis) for arthrodesis in paralytic foot deformations, named by the author as the subastragaloid transverse horizontal section, consists of the following. A lateral incision with division of the peroneal tendons. The soft tissues are incised, and the joint between the talus and calcaneus bones is exposed subperiosteally. This joint is separated with a chisel. The articular surface of the calcaneus and the articular surface of the talus are removed. With a second incision on the medial side of the calcaneus bone, the talocalcaneal joint is exposed and from this side is also separated and deprived of cartilage. After such separation, it is possible to correct the foot deformity by displacing it backward; the leg together with the talus bone is displaced forward. After careful correction, the foot is positioned in a slight equinus position, and in this position a plaster cast is applied for 3-4 months. The advantage of the Davis method is that it leaves the ankle joint itself undamaged, thanks to which mobility in it is preserved and gait remains more elastic. The method is indicated mainly for lateral deviations of the foot, in which good correction can be achieved. On the contrary, when correction of the foot by displacing it in the anteroposterior direction is needed, as in calcaneo-excavatus, the Dunn method or Whitman's talus excision is more indicated.