[Impact of foot reconstruction surgery on the daily life of patients with cerebrovascular accident sequelae].

OBJECTIVE The equinovarus deformity of the foot and digital scrolling is very common among people with sequelae from cerebrovascular accidents. The aim of this study was focused on changes produced by surgical correction of the deformity in terms of comfort, balance, independence and ability to move freely within the context of the daily life of the patient. MATERIAL AND METHODS The data was evaluated using a retrospective survey and a prospective analysis of gait habits using a recording walking device (WalkinSense(®)) before and after surgery. All the 15 patients enrolled in the study were submitted to similar surgical procedures of lengthening and tendon transfers. RESULTS The use of technical aids to correct the deformity and to aid in walking, as well as painful calluses and difficulties with the shoes and walking on uneven surfaces, decreased significantly. Quantitative analysis of the gait showed that after surgery the patient started to move with smaller steps, although with a higher cadence. Gait analysis also revealed a decrease in the amount of gait segments and speed. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS The results showed a positive development in terms of indicators of comfort, balance, independence and self-image through surgery. However the new way of walking seems to be more tiring for the patients, which could justify a decrease in the number of gait segments and speed.