What is the Kidner Procedure?

The Kidner procedure is a procedure that involves the removal of the accessory navicular bone and replacement and repositioning of the tibialis posterior tendon.

Who needs the Kidner Procedure?

The accessory navicular bone is a bone that lies in the bottom of the leg near the tibialis posterior tendon and next to the navicular bone. It is a supernumerary bone that can cause pain and discomfort to patients. The pain is usually worse on weight-bearing and is diagnosed by x-ray. Conservative treatments are usually effective, but in some cases surgical treatment is required.

What are the steps in the Kidner Procedure?

Making the Initial Incision

The procedure is performed under general anesthetic or spinal anesthetic. The area where the surgery is conducted is cleaned with a local antiseptic solution. An incision is made to expose the tibialis posterior tendon and the accessory navicular bone. The incision is placed on the inner aspect of the foot just above the arch.

Removing the Accessory Navicular

Once these structures are identified, the tendons and any other structures nearby are mobilized to get a good view of the accessory navicular bone. This is then completely removed.

Repositioning the Tendons

The tendons are then repositioned and then reattached to the navicular bone and the skin wound is closed.

After Surgery

Patients generally experience relief from the pain and general fatigue that they suffer from when they have an accessory navicular bone. Outcomes are generally very good following the procedure and rehabilitation. Risks from the procedure are rare.