bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Presence and Degree of Bone Marrow Edema Influence on Midterm Clinical Outcome Following Microfracture for Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus
Authors: Shimozono Yoshiharu , Hurley Eoghan , Kennedy John
Published: September 2018

Category:

Ankle

Introduction/Purpose:

Subchondral bone marrow edema (BME) has been associated with articular cartilage loss, with the potential to be a negative prognostic indicator for clinical outcome following microfracture. However, no single study has investigated the influence of BME on clinical outcome following microfracture for osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLT) at mid-term follow-up. The purpose of this study was to clarify the influence of postoperative subchondral BME on the clinical outcome in patients treated with microfracture for OLT at both short- and mid-term.

Methods:

Patients who underwent microfracture between 2008 and 2013 were assessed at 2- and 4-year postoperative follow-up. BME was evaluated using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and the presence of subchondral BME was determined with fat-suppressed T2-weighted sequences. BME was graded on a 0-3 scale based on the relation to total talar volume as follows: 0, no BME; 1, <25% of talar volume; 2, 25%<, >50% of talar volume; 3, >50% of talar vome. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using the Foot and Ankle Outcome Scores (FAOS). The influence of postoperative subchondral BME on the clinical outcomes were evaluated as following; 1) the FAOS between the BME and the no BME groups were compared at 2 and 4 years post surgery, 2) the FAOS based on the BME grades were compared at each time point, and 3) correlation between the FAOS and BME grade was evaluated at each time point.

Results:

Forty-three (83%) of 52 eligible patients were included. No significant differences were found in FAOS between BME and no BME groups at 2-year follow-up (p=0.109), but there was a significant difference at 4-year follow-up (p = 0.041). A significant difference was found among BME grades at 4-year follow-up (p=0.035) (Table 1). A post hoc analysis showed significant differences between grade 0 and 2, 0 and 3, and 1 and 3 (p=0.041, 0.037 and 0.048, respectively). In addition, at 4-years follow-up, a significant correlation was noted between FAOS and BME grade (r= -0.453, p = 0.003) (Table 1), but not at 2-years (r = -0.212, p = 0.178). Seventy-four percent of patients still had subchondral BME at 4-year follow-up after microfracture for OLT.

Conclusion:

Patients with the presence of subchondral BME at mid-term follow-up after microfracture for OLT had worse clinical outcomes than those without subchondral BME. In addition, the degree of subchondral BME at mid-term follow-up was correlated with clinical outcome. However, in the short-term follow-up, there were no significant differences in clinical outcomes based on both the presence and degree of BME. The current study suggests that BME at short-term follow-up is a normal physiologic reaction. However, BME at mid-term following microfracture for OLT may be pathological, and is related to poorer clinical outcomes.
The Effect of Fibular Osteotomy on Talus Position in Supramalleolar Osteotomy
Authors: Sung Ki-Sun , Kim Dae-Wook
Published: September 2018

Category:

Ankle Arthritis

Introduction/Purpose:

A supramalleolar osteotomy (SMO) creates angulation and translation of the ankle joint. However, when the fibular osteotomy was not performed, the amount of shifting of the osteotomized fragment might be limited by the fibula. We use three different radiographic parameters to evaluate the extent of lateral translation of the talus in coronal plane after SMO with or without fibular osteotomy.

Methods:

Forty-two patients (44 cases) that were followed for more than 6 months after SMO with or without fibular osteotomy were retrospectively reviewed. Their mean (range) age and mean follow-up period were 55.6 years (24–74 years) and 19.9 months (6–84 months), respectively. The American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle Hindfoot score was used for clinical evaluation of the patients. The radiological evaluations included tibial anterior surface (TAS) angle, tibial lateral surface (TLS) angle, talar tilt (TT) angle, tibiocrural (TC) angle, tibio-talar center (TTC) angle, talar center migration (TCM), talar translation ratio (TTR), and Takakura stage. We compared the improvements of the clinical and radiographic parameters between the two groups according to fibular osteotomy, and we assessed the types of complications after surgery.

Results:

The improvement of the AOFAS Ankle Hindfoot score was 29.9 ± 17.4 in the fibular osteotomy(FO) group and 26.1 ± 13.8 in the fibular preservation (FP) group, without significant difference between the two groups (p = 0.481). The FO group showed a significant improvement in Takakura stage, TAS angle, TT angle, TC angle, TTC angle, TCM, and TTR. No postoperative complication was found in the FO group, but one metal failure was observed in the FP group.

Conclusion:

Fibular osteotomy showed more satisfactory lateral translation of the talus after SMO and decreased Takakura stage, although the AOFAS Ankle Hindfoot score was not significantly different. Therefore, SMO with fibular osteotomy could result in better radiological parameters in coronal plane for varus ankle osteoarthritis.
Fresh Allograft Replacement for Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus
Authors: Adams Samuel , Allen Nicholas , Nunley James , Easley Mark
Published: September 2018

Category:

Basic Sciences/Biologics

Introduction/Purpose:

Large osteochondral lesion of the talus (OLT) can be difficult to treat. Although many treatment options exist, fresh osteochondral allograft transplantation has demonstrated promise as the primary treatment for OLTs with substantial cartilage and bone involvement as well as a secondary treatment option after failure of other cartilage repair techniques. Fresh osteochondral allografts are size-matched from organ donors and, in theory, have healthy articular cartilage and bone. However, the quality of allograft cartilage and bone has never been examined with respect to the OLT cartilage and bone being replaced. The purpose of this study was to perform a matched comparison of the cartilage and bone from patients OLTs to the fresh osteochondral allograft replacement.

Methods:

Discarded intact osteochondral specimens were collected from 8 patients undergoing surgery for an OLT. The specimens included the excised OLT and a portion of the fresh allograft replacement that the same patient received at the time of surgery. Histologic analysis was performed. The safranin-o histology was then scored using the International Cartilage Repair Society (ICRS) histopathology grading and staging system. In this system the grade determines cartilage and bone destruction on a scale of 0 to 6.5, the stage determines the percentage of involvement in the specimen on a scale of 0 to 4, and the total score is the grade multiplied by the stage. The surface roughness was also compared between the OLT and allograft cartilage using ImageJ software (NIH). Paired t-tests were performed on the ICRS grade, stage, and total score, and surface roughness comparing the OLTs and allografts. Significance was set at p<0.05.

Results:

Gross histological inspection of the samples demonstrated cartilage erosion and subchondral bone destruction in the OLTs. In constrast, the osteochondral allografts demonstrated intact cartilage surface and normal subchondral bone in the allografts (Figure 1). The ICRS grade, stage, and total score were significantly higher in the implanted allografts compared to the resected OLTs (Figure 2); indicating better cartilage and bone morphology for the allografts compared to the OLTs. In fact, the mean grade and stage for the allograft samples were both less than a score of 1 which corresponds to healthy cartilage and bone with less than 10% surface fibrillations. Moreover, the surface roughness of the allograft cartilage was significantly smoother than the OLT cartilage.

Conclusion:

This is the first study to demonstrate that the use of fresh allograft transplantation for the treatment of OLTs replaces the damaged cartilage and bone with normal or near normal cartilage and bone. The replacement of damaged cartilage and subchondral bone with normal or near normal cartilage and bone may be the reason for improved pain relief and functional outcomes after fresh allograft transplantation for OLTs.
Radiological outcome from Tight-RopeTM fixation for acute syndesmotic injury
Authors: Bae Su-Young , Chung Hyung Jin , Lee Jung-Hwan , Shin Woo-Jin , Junseok Lee
Published: September 2018

Category:

Trauma

Introduction/Purpose:

The reduction and maintenance of tibiofibular joint is essential in the treatment of syndesmotic ankle injury. Tight-RopeTM (Arthrex, Naples, FL, USA) has been used recently but suspected in terms of tightening and sustaining power in spite of biomechanical results. We aimed to assess fixation-tightness and delayed syndesmotic widening after rehabilitation in syndesmotic injuries treated with Tight-RopeTM comparing with conventional screws.

Methods:

62 consecutive patients with acute syndesmotic injury were retrospectively reviewed. They were divided into 28 cases of Tight-RopeTM(TR) group and 34 cases of conventional screw fixation(Screw) group. We divided them into subgroups along the fixation methods such as 2 screws, 1 screw, TR only, and TR combined with screw. We analyzed syndesmotic widening by percentage. We measured tibiofibular clear space(TFCS) and tibiofibular overlap(TFOL). Tibiofibular clear space ratio and tibiofibular overlap ratio is measured as a ratio of tibiofibular clear space and tibiofibular overlap to the width of talar dome at preoperative, immediate postoperative, 3 months, and last (one year) visit time points and measured as a percentage of each measured value on the injured side to that on the contralateral side at the respective time points. The independent t-test and paired t-test were used for statistical analysis.

Results:

Mean TFCS ratio at each time point was 145.7±43.8%, 80.6±29.3%, 95.2±32.5%, and 96.3±31.1% in TR group and 126.2±42.6%, 73.9±22.6%, 104.8±59.2%, 106.4±35.0% in screw group. There were no statistical differences between groups in all 4 time points, no meaningful difference between subgroups. TFCS widening at 3 months in TR was less than screw group but no statistical significance. The TFCS was significantly tightened postoperatively then widened at 3 months and no meaningful change until last visit on both group. Mean TFOL ratio at each point was 51.84±43.6%, 119.2±36.7%, 110.7±44.5%, 96.8±27.7% in TR and 65.7±34.5%, 110.8±36.6%, 114.2±45.6%, 102.4±37.8% in screw group. There was no statistical difference between groups and subgroups. The overlap was increased postoperatively and no change between every sequential time points until last visit.

Conclusion:

The Tight-RopeTM fixation has a similar tightening and sustaining power compared to conventional screws and it was determined that the sustaining capacity did not decreased with time. Tight-RopeTM fixation can be effective treatment because it enables effective fixation, early weight-bearing and rehabilitation after surgery, and maintaining device for longer time in severe injury.
Realignment osteotomy in fibular malunion
Authors: Barg Alexej , Wiewiorski Martin , Valderrabano Victor
Published: September 2018

Category:

Ankle Arthritis

Introduction/Purpose:

The incidence of fibula fractures continues to increase. The exact incidence of distal fibula malunions after fibular reconstructions is not known, but incidence up to 33% is described in the literature. The most frequent malunions of the fibula are shortening and malrotation, resulting in the widening of the ankle mortise and talar instability. It has been demonstrated that substantial fibular displacement may substantially increase the contact pressures in the ankle joint. Therefore distal fibular malunion is a risk factor for development of posttraumatic ankle osteoarthritis. The objectives of this study were to (1) describe our treatment algorithm and surgical technique in patients with posttraumatic fibula malunions; (2) determine intra- and postoperative complications rates, (3) to describe mid-term clinical and radiological outcomes and quality of life.

Methods:

21 consecutive patients (12 male, 9 female, mean age 42 years) with symptomatic fibular malunions were included into this prospective study. The initial injury was Weber B and C fracture in 7 and 14 ankles. The mean time between the injury and reconstructive surgery was 17.5 months. In all patients a z-shaped osteotomy of the fibula was performed to achieve the appropriate length/rotation of the fibula. Fixation was performed using a plate. If necessary, supramalleolar and inframalleolar deformities were corrected by supramalleolar tibial and calcaneal osteotomies, respectively. Prior to the osteotomies an anterior ankle arthroscopy was performed in all patients. All patients were evaluated pre- and postoperatively (mean follow-up 5.6 years). Radiological outcomes were assessed using standardized weight-bearing radiographs. Clinical outcomes were assessed using visual analogue scale (VAS), American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot scale, SF-36 questionnaire.

Results:

There were no intraoperative complications. In two patients early wound healing problems were observed, and resolved with i.v. antibiotics. Osseous healing was observed in all ankles within 10 weeks after surgery. The length and rotation of the fibula was improved in all patients, according to Weber criteria. All patients experienced significant pain relief (VAS: 6.5 ± 1.1 to 1.1 ± 0.9, P < 0.001) and functional improvement (AOFAS hindfoot scale: 47.1 ± 14.5 to 85.0 ± 7.5, P < 0.001; ROM:37° ± 6° to 45° ± 5°, P < 0.001). The SF-36 score also significantly increased in all 8 subgroups. In 11 patients hardware was removed due a discomfort after a mean of 11.7 months (range 7.2 – 22.8).

Conclusion:

A z-shaped osteotomy is an efficient and successful method to restore fibula length and rotation in patients with posttraumatic malunion. Our findings in this series of 19 ankles confirm that this realignment surgery results in significant pain relief and functional improvement.
Patient Knowledge Regarding Radiation Exposure from Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Imaging
Authors: Bohl Daniel , Manning Blaine , Holmes George , Lee Simon , Lin Johnny , Hamid Kamran
Published: September 2018

Category:

Other

Introduction/Purpose:

Foot and ankle surgeons routinely prescribe diagnostic imaging that exposes patients to potentially harmful ionizing radiation. The purpose of this study is to characterize patients’ knowledge regarding radiation exposure associated with common forms of foot and ankle imaging.

Methods:

A survey was administered to all new patients prior to their first foot and ankle clinic appointments. Patients were asked to compare the amount of harmful radiation associated with chest x-rays to that associated with various types of foot and ankle imaging. Results were tabulated and compared to actual values of radiation exposure from the published literature.

Results:

A total of 890 patients were invited to participate, of whom 791 (88.9%) completed the survey. The majority of patients believed that a foot x-ray, an ankle x-ray, a “low dose” CT scan of the foot and ankle (alluding to cone-beam CT), and a traditional CT scan of the foot and ankle all contain similar amounts of harmful ionizing radiation to a chest x-ray (Table 1). This is in contrast to the published literature, which suggests that foot x-rays, ankle x-rays, cone beam CT scans of the foot and ankle, and traditional CT scans of the foot and ankle expose patients to 0.006, 0.006, 0.127, and 0.833 chest x-rays worth of radiation.

Conclusion:

The results of the present study suggest that patients greatly over-estimate the amount of harmful ionizing radiation associated with plain film and cone-beam CT scans of the foot and ankle. Interestingly, their estimates of radiation associated with traditional CT scans of the foot and ankle were relatively accurate. Results suggest that patients may benefit from increased counseling by surgeons regarding the relatively low risk of radiation exposure associated with plain film and cone-beam CT imaging of the foot and ankle.
Authorship and Citations in Foot and Ankle International from 1980-2017
Authors: Bohl Daniel , Wakefield Connor , He Emily , Movassaghi Kamran , Holmes George , Lin Johnny , Hamid Kamran , Lee Simon
Published: September 2018

Category:

Other

Introduction/Purpose:

Orthopaedic foot and ankle surgery is a young and rapidly evolving orthopaedic subspecialty. Little is known regarding the authors contributing to the field. The purpose of this study is to characterize the demographics of the authors publishing foot and ankle research since the inception of the research journal of the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society.

Methods:

All publications in the journal Foot and Ankle International between 1980 and 2017 were reviewed. Papers were characterized in terms of number of authors, number of institutions, and number of references. The first and corresponding authors were also characterized in terms of country of origin, gender, and degree qualification. Each of these characteristics was tested for trends over time.

Results:

In total, 5,323 publications were reviewed, including 4,297 research articles, 367 case reports, 262 editorials, 159 letters, and 121 technique tips. The mean number of authors per paper increased from 2.3 during the 1980s to 4.3 during the 2010s (p<0.001). The percent of publications with female first authors increased from 4.9% during the 1980s to 13.2% during the 2010s (p<0.001). The country of origin shifted markedly away from the United States during the 1980s towards Europe and other countries during the 2010s (Figure 1). Podiatrists consisted of 1.3% of first authors and 1.4% of corresponding authors—these proportions did not meaningfully change over time (p>0.05). The mean number of references to other work increased from 13.8 during the 1980s to 24.4 during the 2010s (p<0.001).

Conclusion:

The authors of the foot and ankle literature have changed markedly over the past 4 decades. Most notably, there have been shifts towards female and international authorship. The number of authors per paper has also nearly doubled over time. Such trends are likely to continue as the field of foot and ankle grows.
Sensitivity of the Saline Load Test for Traumatic Arthrotomy of the Ankle
Authors: Bohl Daniel , Frank Rachel , Lee Simon , Hamid Kamran , Holmes George , Lin Johnny , Lee Simon
Published: September 2018

Category:

Ankle

Introduction/Purpose:

The saline load test is routinely used to evaluate for traumatic arthrotomy in orthopaedics. The purpose of this study was to determine the volume of saline required to detect traumatic arthrotomy of the ankle.

Methods:

42 patients undergoing elective ankle arthroscopy were prospectively enrolled. For each patient, a standard 4 mm anteromedial portal was established. Next, an 18-guage needle was inserted at the site of the anterolateral portal. Sterile saline was slowly injected through the needle until saline extravasated from the anteromedial portal. Saline volumes at the time of extravasation were recorded and analyzed.

Results:

The saline volume required to achieve extravasation ranged from 0.2mL-60.0 mL (Figure 1A). The median saline volume required to achieve extravasation (and interquartile range) was 9.7 mL (3.8-29.6 mL); however, five of 42 patients required volumes between 50.0 mL and 60.0 mL. A total of 50.0 mL was required to achieve 90% sensitivity, 55.0 mL to achieve 95% sensitivity, and 60.0 mL to achieve 99% sensitivity (Figure 1B).

Conclusion:

The previously recommended 30 mL of saline required to reliably detect traumatic arthrotomy of the ankle may be too small a volume. The present study suggests that clinicians should attempt to inject 60 mL in order to effectively rule out a traumatic arthrotomy injury.
Timing of Adverse Events Following Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of the Ankle
Authors: Bohl Daniel , Lee Simon , Hamid Kamran , Lin Johnny , Holmes George
Published: September 2018

Category:

Ankle

Introduction/Purpose:

There is increasing interest in the early identification and treatment of adverse medical events following orthopaedic procedures. The purpose of this study is to characterize the timing of adverse events following open reduction and internal fixation of closed fractures of the ankle.

Methods:

A retrospective cohort study was conducted using the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program. A total of 17,318 patients undergoing open reduction and internal fixation of closed ankle fractures were identified. For each of eight different adverse events, the median postoperative day of diagnosis, interquartile range for day of diagnosis, and middle 80% for day of diagnosis were determined. Timing was compared between uni-malleolar and bi-/tri-malleolar fractures.

Results:

The median day of diagnosis (and interquartile range; middle 80%) for myocardial infarction was 2 (1-5; 0-17), pneumonia 3 (2-7; 1-19), acute kidney injury 6.5 (2-18; 2-20), urinary tract infection 7 (2-14; 0-24), pulmonary embolism 10 (3-21; 0-27), sepsis 15 (4-22; 1-28), deep vein thrombosis 17 (10-22; 3-27), and surgical site infection 19 (14-25; 8-28; Figure 1). Myocardial infarction occured earlier in patients with bi-/tri-malleolar fractures than in patients with uni-malleolar fractures (median postoperative day 2 versus 10, p=0.041). Similarly, sepsis occured earlier in patients with bi-/tri-malleolar fractures than in patients with uni-malleolar fractures (median day 10 versus 20.5, p=0.022). For the other 6 adverse events, there was no difference in timing between patients with uni-malleolar and patients with bi-/tri-malleolar fractures (p>0.05 for each).

Conclusion:

These precisely described time periods for occurrence of specific adverse events enable heightened awareness amongst orthopaedic surgeons during the first month following open reduction and internal fixation of the ankle. Orthopaedic surgeons should have the lowest threshold for testing for each adverse event during the time period of greatest risk.
Effects of Local Opioid Antagonist on Diabetic Fracture Rat Model
Authors: Cain Jarrett D. , Titunick Michelle , McLaughlin Patricia , Zagon Ian
Published: September 2018

Category:

Diabetes

Introduction/Purpose:

Complications associated with the diabetes include increased incidence of fracture healing, delayed fracture healing, delayed osteoblasts cell replication, decreased angiogenesis, migration and/or osteoblast cell differentiation. The cellular events involved in bone healing are adversely affected by diabetes; however, can be modulated by the Opioid Growth Factor (OGF)–OGF receptor (OGFr) is an inhibitory peptide that downregulates DNA synthesis in a tissue nonspecific manner. Diabetes is associated with elevated serum levels of OGF and dysregulation of the OGFr leading to multiple complications related to healing, sensitivity, and regeneration. This study explores the presence and function of the OGF-OGFr axis in bone tissue from type 1 diabetic rats examining intact and fractured femurs during early phases of the repair process

Methods:

Seven-week-old Sprague Dawley rats were injected with streptozotocin (40mg/kg i.p.) to induce T1D; other rats received buffer only and served as controls. After one month, hyperglycemia rats underwent surgery to produce a fracture at the distal third of the femur. Four diabetic rats received opioid antagoinist (naltrexone) and calcium sulfate and all remaining rats received calcium sulfate with water only. X-rays were taken immediately after surgery and after rats were euthanized on post-surgery; femur and tibia were collected for protein isolation, western blot analysis along with frozen or paraffin-embedded for histological analysis

Results:

Immunofluorescence indicated approximately 90% increase in opioid growth factor receptor expression in diabetic femurs compared to age-matched normal femurs. Western Blotting also suggested an increase in the receptor protein in diabetic bones relative to normal bone. TRAP staining for osteoclasts was greater in control and opioid antagonist-treated diabetic fractures when compared to the number of osteoclasts in vehicle-treated diabetic fractured femurs. Safranin O stained sections revealed approximately more bone in opioid growth receptor antagonist-treated diabetic bone fractures than in vehicle-treated bone fractures

Conclusion:

These data support our hypothesis that expression levels of OGFr are dysregulated in the bone of diabetic patients leading to complications in bone healing. Moreover, modulation of the OGF-OGFr pathway with receptor antagonists restored some aspects of bone healing. With further study, these preliminary results support the role of the OGF-OGFr axis in treatment of diabetic bone healing. New therapies to target dysregulation of the OGF-OGFr regulatory pathway in diabetes would provide a safe and effective disease-modifying treatment for delayed bone healing.
Seasonal Variation of Achilles Tendon Injury
Authors: Caldwell Jon-Michael , Lightsey Harry , Swindell Hasani , Greisberg Justin , Vosseller J. Turner
Published: September 2018

Category:

Sports

Introduction/Purpose:

Achilles tendon ruptures are increasingly common injuries. There are several known risk factors for Achilles tendon rupture, although little is reported on the seasonal variation of the incidence of these injuries. Of the few studies in the literature touching on this question, the results have been varied. We sought to determine if there is any seasonal pattern of Achilles tendon ruptures. Knowledge of such a seasonal pattern could be advantageous for patient education, risk assessment, and ultimately prevention of these injuries.

Methods:

We queried billing records for CPT codes 27650, 27652, and 27654 as well as ICD diagnosis codes 727.67, 845.09, and S86.01x pertaining to Achilles tendon injury, repair, and reconstruction. Charts were screened and included if the patient suffered an acute Achilles tendon rupture on a known date. Charts were excluded if the patient had a chronic Achilles tear or underwent reconstruction or debridement for tendonitis, Haglunds deformity, tendon laceration, or any other indication aside from acute rupture. Data was analyzed using a chi-squared test for categorical variables, binomial tests for dichotomous variables and Mann-Whitney-U or Welch t-test for continuous variables. Significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results:

Our search yielded 499 cases with 245 meeting inclusion criteria. Sixty-six percent (66%) of injuries were identified as sports-related while 34% were non-sports related. When stratified by month, significant peaks occurred in April and July (p = .036, .011 respectively) with significantly fewer injuries occurring in October through December (p = 0.049). The highest rate of injury was seen in Spring (p = .015) and the lowest was seen in Fall (p < .001). There was no significant difference between seasons when only the non-sports related injuries were considered. Basketball was the most common sport involved (n=78) accounting for 51% of injuries (p < .001), followed by soccer and tennis. There was no significant variation between seasons in any particular sport.

Conclusion:

There was significant seasonal variation in the incidence of Achilles tendon ruptures. Both sports and non-sports-related injuries followed a similar pattern, with most injuries occurring during the Spring and Summer and fewer during Fall and Winter. This increase corresponds to the increase in activity in the recreational athlete population in the region which is often preceded by a time of relative inactivity. Our study confirms that the deconditioned athlete is at particularly elevated risk for Achilles tendon rupture during the Spring season when abrupt increases in sporting activity are common. Targeted education and prevention efforts could help mitigate this risk.
A Comparison of the In Vivo Contact Pressure at the Tibiotalar Joint During Walking and Running
Authors: Campbell Bradley , Abramowitch Steven , Anderst William
Published: September 2018

Category:

Ankle

Introduction/Purpose:

Knowledge of cartilage pressure distribution in healthy ankle joints during gait is important for understanding the loading environment of articular cartilage and for providing a basis for comparison to evaluate how ankle pathology and surgical procedures affect cartilage loading. Finite element models of the ankle have been developed to examine in vitro loads at the tibiotalar joint during simulated standing in healthy and injured ankle joints [1, 2]. However, there are currently no in vivo studies of tibiotalar cartilage pressure during dynamic loading activities. The goal of this study was to develop a subject-specific finite element model of the tibiotalar joint to estimate contact pressure during walking and running.

Methods:

Informed consent was obtained from one healthy male, age 23 yrs., BMI 27 kg/m2). Synchronized biplane radiographs of the ankle were acquired at 100 and 150 frames per second during the support phase of overground walking and running, respectively, at a self-selected pace (1.5 m/s and 3.0 m/s, respectively). CT-based bone models of the tibia and talus were matched to the stereoradiographic images to precisely track the three-dimensional bone movement [3]. Six degrees-of-freedom joint kinematics were calculated for each bone model, and used to position bone models in the finite element analysis. Cartilage volumes for the distal tibia and proximal talus were created in Geomagic software by extruding the articulating bone surface. Bones were modeled as rigid bodies and cartilage was modeled as deformable bodies with uniform thickness of 1.3 mm [4-7]. Simulations were performed using FEBio software. The primary outcome parameter was peak cartilage pressure in the tibiotalar joint.

Results:

On average, peak tibiotalar cartilage pressure was approximately 25% greater during the midstance phase of running in comparison to walking (Figure 1). During walking, peak contact pressure occurred on the lateral-central region of the tibiotalar cartilage throughout the entire stance phase. During the early support phase of running, the location of peak contact pressure was also on the lateral-central region of the tibiotalar cartilage. During running push-off, pressure increased in the medial-central cartilage region and the overall peak cartilage pressure increased.

Conclusion:

A novel finding of this study is that the peak pressure in tibiotalar cartilage moves from the lateral to medial side of the joint during running, but remains on the lateral side throughout the support phase of walking. This suggests that the location and magnitude of the loads seen by tibiotalar joint cartilage are activity dependent, even in the healthy ankle joint. Future work will investigate cartilage loading in pathologic ankles before and after surgical intervention, as well as during other common athletic activities.
Prognosis of Medial Gutter Osteoarthritis Combined with Chronic Ankle Instability
Authors: Cho Byung-Ki , Choi Seung-myung
Published: September 2018

Category:

Ankle Arthritis

Introduction/Purpose:

Although the frequent intraarticular pathologies associated with recurrent ankle sprains are well known, informations regarding treatment method for arthritic changes in the medial gutter are still insufficient. This study was performed to evaluate the intermediate-term clinical and radiological outcomes following modified Broström procedure and arthroscopic debridement in the middle-aged patients.

Methods:

Twenty-two patients with medial gutter osteoarthritis related to chronic lateral ankle instability were followed for more than 3 years after surgical treatment. All patients showed medial joint space narrowing of Takakura stage 2. The clinical evaluation consisted of the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score, visual analogue scale (VAS) for medial ankle pain during walking, and Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM).

Results:

Mean AOFAS and FAAM scores significantly improved from 51.2 and 45.7 points preoperatively to 80.3 and 78.4 points at final followup, respectively (P < .001). Although mean pain-VAS significantly improved from 6.8 points to 3.5 points (P < .001), 8 patients (36.4%) complained of discomfort at gait with considerable pain ≥ 4 points. There was only 1 patient (4.5%) with recurrent ankle instability, while 6 patients (27.3%) showed a progression in arthritis stage.

Conclusion:

Modified Broström procedure concomitant with arthroscopic debridement for medial gutter osteoarthritis secondary to chronic ankle instability is not effective enough to treat the medial ankle pain and functional impairment. Alternative treatment strategies for middle-aged cohort with arthritic changes are needed to improve the clinical outcomes and to prevent a progressive osteoarthritis.
The Effect of Peroneal Muscle Strength on Functional Outcomes After the Modified Broström Procedure for Chronic Ankle Instability
Authors: Cho Byung-Ki , Choi Seung-myung
Published: September 2018

Category:

Sports

Introduction/Purpose:

Although the peroneal muscle is known to be a major dynamic lateral stabilizer of the ankle, few informations are available regarding the changes of muscle strength and relationship with the outcomes after lateral ligaments repair surgery. The purpose of this study was to identify the effects of peroneal strength on the validated functional outcome measures after the modified Broström procedure(MBP) for chronic ankle instability.

Methods:

Forty-one patients (41 ankles) underwent MBP using suture anchors were eligible and followed up to 2 years postoperatively. Functional evaluation consisted of the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score(FAOS), Foot and Ankle Ability Measure(FAAM). The changes of peroneal strength were evaluated using isokinetic dynamometer. Differences in the functional outcomes between the 3 groups divided according to recovery rate of peroneal strength were analysed.

Results:

Peak torque and total work for eversion in 60º/sec angular velocity significantly improved from a mean 8.1 Nm, 5.2 Nm preoperatively to 11.4 Nm, 6.9 Nm at postoperative 2 years, respectively (P < .001, P = .038). Deficit ratio of peak torque for eversion significantly improved from a mean 38.6% to 17.4%, and a significant side to side difference was found (P = .011). There were no significant differences in FAOS, FAAM, and measurements of stress radiograph between the 3 groups.

Conclusion:

Although restoration of peroneal strength postoperatively was about 82.6% of unaffected ankle, patient-reported function in daily and sport activities were satisfactorily improved. Postoperative isokinetic strength of the peroneus demonstrated no statistically significant effects on the functional outcomes after MBP.
Early Outcomes on the Use of an Anterior Plate for complicated Ankle Fusions
Authors: Coetzee J. Chris , Stone Rebecca
Published: September 2018

Category:

Ankle

Introduction/Purpose:

An ankle fusion is indicated for severe osteoarthritis of the ankle. An anterior ankle fusion plate for tibiotalar fusions provides a rigid and reproducible solution to treat ankle arthritis. With a plate fixation it might be possible to treat more complex deformities and provide additional stability in compromised patients. This study documents the early outcomes on the use of an anterior plate for patients undergoing an ankle arthrodesis.

Methods:

All ankle fusions using the anterior plate at our center were included and followed. Fifty-one patients (53 ankles) presented to the senior author between September 2014 and February 2017. Patients experienced ongoing ankle pain due to degenerative changes, a previous ankle fusion, post-traumatic arthritis (PTA) or failure of a total ankle arthroplasty (TAA). All patients’ medical and ankle surgical history was documented. This study was conducted in compliance and approved with a local IRB. Outcomes were evaluated pre-operatively and post-operatively with the Veterans Rand Health Survey (VR-12), Ankle Osteoarthritis Scale (AOS) and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) Pain scale. A patient satisfaction survey was distributed to all patients and results were tabulated. Average follow up for outcome scores 16.8 months (range 6 – 38 months).

Results:

Fifty-one patients(29 females) with the mean age of 56.56 years(26.3–74.8) had a mean follow-up of 16.6months(6– 38months). Diagnoses included 17 primary, 10 revision, 6 TAA failures and 20 PTA. 86.3%(44 patients) were non-diabetic. Non-smokers included 43.1%(22). VR-12 Physical improved from 29.46 to 37.72, and Mental 47.34 to 52.55 pre-operatively to post-operatively, respectively. AOS Pain improved: 462.41 to 252.8; AOS Disability: 567.52 to latest 387.77. Mean VAS improved from pre-operatively of 54.28 to latest of 30.61. Arthrodesis rate was 98%(52/53 ankles). 45 ankles were fused at 3 months by x-rays. Symptomatic patients (with pain) had a CT scan done at a minimum of 3 months (1/8 CT scans showed non-union & 7 were fused). Major complications were 3.8%(2 patients). There were no wound complications.

Conclusion:

An anterior plate construct is more invasive compared to arthroscopic or other arthrodesis options. However, the stability of the construct allows for a reliable option in complex situations, and the arthrodesis rate appears to be exceptional. In this complex patient population, the arthrodesis rate was 98%, while major complications only 4%.

Summary Sentence:

Anterior plate construct is more invasive compared to arthroscopic/other arthrodesis options. However, stability of the construct allows for a reliable option and fusion rates seem to be exceptional.
Percutaneous Posterior to Anterior Screw Fixation of the Talar Neck
Authors: de Cesar Netto Cesar , Roberts Lauren , Dos Santos Alexandre Godoy , Staggers Jackson , Lee Sung , Smith Walter , Hudson Parke , Araoye Ibukunoluwa , Naranje Sameer , Shah Ashish
Published: September 2018

Category:

Trauma

Introduction/Purpose:

Fractures of the talar neck and body can be fixed with percutaneously placed screws directed from anterior to posterior or posterior to anterior. The latter has been found to be biomechanically and anatomically superior. Percutaneous pin and screw placement poses anatomic risks for posterolateral and posteromedial neurovascular and tendinous structures. The objective of this study was to enumerate the number of trials for proper placement of two parallel screws and to determine the injury rate to neurovascular and tendinous structures.

Methods:

Eleven fresh frozen cadaver limbs were used. 2.0 mm guide wires from the Stryker (Selzach, Switzerland) 5.0-mm headless cannulated set were percutaneously placed (under fluoroscopic guidance) into the distal posterolateral aspect of the ankle. All surgical procedures were performed by a fellowship-trained foot and ankle surgeon. Malpositioned pins were left intact to allow later assessment of soft tissue injury. The number of guide wires needed to achieve an acceptable positioning of the implant was noted. Acceptable positioning was defined as in line with the talar neck axis in both AP and lateral fluoroscopic views. After a layered dissection from the skin to the tibia, we evaluated neurovascular and tendinous injuries, and measured the shortest distance between the closest guide pin and the soft tissue structures, using a precision digital caliper.

Results:

The mean number of guide wires needed to achieve acceptable positioning for 2 parallel screws was 2.91 ± 0.70 (range, 2 - 5). The mean distances between the closest guide pin and the soft tissue structures of interest were: Achilles tendon, 0.53 ± 0.94 mm; flexor hallucis longus tendon, 6.62 ± 3.24 mm; peroneal tendons, 7.51 ± 2.92 mm; and posteromedial neurovascular bundle, 11.73 ± 3.48 mm. The sural bundle was injured in all the specimens, with 8/11 (72.7%) in direct contact with the guide pin and 3/11 (17.3%) having been transected. The peroneal tendons were transected in 1/11 (9%) of the specimens. The Achilles tendon was in contact with the guide pin in 6/11 (54.5%) specimens and transected in 2/11 (18.2%) specimens.

Conclusion:

The placement of posterior to anterior percutaneous screws for talar neck fixation is technically demanding and multiple guide pins are needed. Our cadaveric study showed that important tendinous and neurovascular structures are in close proximity with the guide pins and that the sural bundle was injured in 100% of the cases. We advise performing a formal small posterolateral approach for proper visualization and retraction of structures at risk. Regardless, adequate patient education about the high risk of injury from this procedure is crucial.
The Effect of Three Foot Types on the Achilles Tendon Lever Arm
Authors: Deforth Manja , Zwicky Lukas , Lang Tamara Horn , Hintermann Beat
Published: September 2018

Category:

Hindfoot

Introduction/Purpose:

During locomotion, propulsion of the body is created by the force of the triceps surae complex as it is transmitted to the metatarsal heads. The amount and pattern of the resulting propulsion force highly depends on the moment arm of the Achilles tendon. To our knowledge, no data exists on how and to which extent position and morphology of the foot affects the moment arm of the Achilles tendon. The aim of this study was 1) to develop a method to determine the Achilles tendon moment arm, and 2) to calculate the Achilles tendon moment arm with the foot in different degrees of dorsi- and plantarflexion for 3 foot types (normal arched foot, pes planus, and pes cavus).

Methods:

99 study participants with a healthy ankle joint (males, 40; females, 59; mean age 49 [range, 14 – 78] years) were included. Participants’ foot type was classified as a normal arched foot (n = 33), as pes planus (n = 33), or as pes cavus (n = 33) based on the calcaneal inclination angle (CI) (Figure 1). Besides the foot type, the foot length (FL), the calcaneal insertion of the Achilles tendon (ATI), the angle (a) between the line (L) connecting ATI with the center of rotation of the ankle (COR) and the horizontal line (L’) were measured on the lateral radiographs. The interrater reliabilities of measuring a on radiographs and on MRIs were compared. The lever arm of the Achilles tendon (L’calculated) was calculated as following (foot and tibia were regarded as two rigid segments; the influences of other muscles were neglected): L’calculated = cos(a - plantarflexion)*L

Results:

The interrater reliability of a was higher on radiographs (ICC = 0.84, [0.73 – 0.91]) than on MRIs (ICC = 0.61, [0.27 – 0.81]). The ICC comparing a measured on MRIs and radiographs was 0.63 [0.50-0.74]. There was no difference in FL between the three foot types (p = 0.199). However, the average a was significantly different (normal arched foot 31°, pes planus 24°, pes cavus 36°, p = 0.021), resulting in a statistically significant shorter Achilles tendon lever arm for pes cavus than for pes planus (p < 0.0001) and normal arched feet (p = 0.006) in neutral position. The maximum lever arm for the three different foot types was reached at different degrees of plantarflexion (Figure 2).

Conclusion:

The assessment of the Achilles tendon lever arm using radiographs is reliable. The foot configuration determines the lever arm of the Achilles tendon for a given flexion position of the foot. It also determines the plantarflexion position where the Achilles tendon reaches the maximum of its lever arm. This has to be taken into consideration when planning surgeries that change a or L, as they may also result in changes of plantarflexion power.
Outcomes of Surgical Treatment of Talar Osteochondral Lesions using Bone Marrow Aspirate and Microgenized Allograft Cartilage Extra-cellular Matrix
Authors: Dekker Robert , Patel Milap
Published: September 2018

Category:

Sports

Introduction/Purpose:

Osteochondral lesions (OCL) of the talus are frequently seen after ankle injury and often result in significant morbidity. Apart from a single case report, we are the first to present a case series of OCLs treated with bone marrow aspirate and micronized extracellular allograft cartilage matrix designed to serve as a scaffold to promote autologous healing. Short to mid-term outcomes using this technique are virtually absent in the literature. In this study, we sought to assess pre- and post-procedural functional outcomes using the validated Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) as well as assess cartilage incorporation on postoperative ankle MRI using the Magnetic Resonance Observation of Cartilage Repair Tissue (MOCART) scoring.

Methods:

Twelve patients with symptomatic talar OCLs (14 lesions) were prospectively recruited. Average age was 44 years. Each underwent ankle arthroscopy, ankle arthrotomy, marrow stimulation and lesion repair using BMA and micronized extracellular allograft cartilage matrix by a single fellowship trained foot and ankle Orthopedic Surgeon. Preoperative, 6 month and 1 year postoperative PROMIS pain and function scores were collected prospectively. At six months, all patients underwent ankle MRI scans that were reviewed by a fellowship trained musculoskeletal radiologist for MOCART scoring.

Results:

No significant difference was detected between mean pre- and postoperative PROMIS function (41.4 vs 38.1; p=.54) and pain (61.3 vs 66.1) scores at 6 months. No significant difference was seen between mean pre- and postoperative PROMIS function (41.4 vs 41.8; p=.93) and pain (61.3 vs 58; p=.48) scores at 1 year. Mean postoperative MOCART score was 53.2 with a range of 5 to 90.

Conclusion:

Bone marrow aspirate and extracellular allograft cartilage matrix for surgical treatment of talar OCL showed no statistically significant improvement in functional outcomes at 6 months and 1 year. No correlation between functional outcomes and MOCART score was seen.
Comparison of the effects of forefoot jointpreserving arthroplasty and resectionreplacement arthroplasty on walking plantar pressure distribution and patient-based outcomes in patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Ebina Kosuke , Tsuboi Hideki , Hirao Makoto , Noguchi Takaaki
Published: September 2018

Category:

Midfoot/Forefoot

Introduction/Purpose:

The purpose of this retrospective study is to clarify the difference in plantar pressure distribution during walking and related patient-based outcomes between forefoot joint-preserving arthroplasty and resection-replacement arthroplasty in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods:

Four groups of patients were recruited. Group1 included 22 feet of 11 healthy controls (age 48.6 years), Group2 included 36 feet of 28 RA patients with deformed non-operated feet (age 64.8 years, Disease activity score assessing 28 joints with CRP [DAS28-CRP] 2.3), Group3 included 27 feet of 20 RA patients with metatarsal head resection-replacement arthroplasty (age 60.7 years, post-operative duration 5.6 years, DAS28-CRP 2.4), and Group4 included 34 feet of 29 RA patients with metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint-preserving arthroplasty (age 64.6 years, post-operative duration 3.2 years, DAS28-CRP 2.3). Patients were cross-sectionally examined by F-SCAN II® to evaluate walking plantar pressure, and the self-administered foot evaluation questionnaire (SAFE-Q). Twenty joint-preserving arthroplasty feet were longitudinally examined at both pre- and post-operation.

Results:

In the 1st MTP joint, Group4 showed higher pressure distribution (13.7%) than Group2 (8.0%) and Group3 (6.7%) (P<0.001). In the 2nd-3 rd MTP joint, Group4 showed lower pressure distribution (9.0%) than Group2 (14.5%) (P<0.001) and Group3 (11.5%) (P<0.05). On longitudinal analysis, Group4 showed increased 1st MTP joint pressure (8.5% vs. 14.7%; P<0.001) and decreased 2nd-3 rd MTP joint pressure (15.2% vs. 10.7%; P<0.01) distribution. In the SAFE-Q subscale scores, Group4 showed higher scores than Group3 in pain and pain-related scores (84.1 vs. 71.7; P<0.01) and in shoe-related scores (62.5 vs. 43.1; P<0.01).

Conclusion:

Joint-preserving arthroplasty resulted in higher 1st MTP joint and lower 2nd-3 rd MTP joint pressures than resection-replacement arthroplasty, which were associated with better patient-based outcomes.