bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Restoration of Talar Height using a Modular Revision Prosthesis after Failed Total Ankle Arthroplasty
Authors: Steginsky Brian , Haddad Steven
Published: September 2018

Category:

Ankle Arthritis

Introduction/Purpose:

Talar component subsidence is the most common indication for revision total ankle replacement. The management of talar bone loss and alteration in the ankle joint center of rotation is challenging following component subsidence. Unfortunately, ankle arthrodesis as a salvage procedure for failed ankle arthroplasty has been associated with high rates of nonunion and collapse. Equally unfortunate, there is paucity in the literature on revision total ankle arthroplasty. The purpose of this study was to report the early outcomes of revision total ankle replacement using a modular prosthesis and metal/cement augmentation to reconstitute talar height following catastrophic failure of the index total ankle arthroplasty.

Methods:

A retrospective review was performed on sixteen patients who underwent revision total ankle replacement for failed arthroplasty associated with talar component subsidence and subsequent talar bone loss. Demographic data, postoperative complications, index implant, and concomitant procedures were recorded. Radiographic measurements were performed at three time-points (preoperative, immediately postoperative, and most recent follow-up) to evaluate alignment of the prosthesis, talar height restoration, and range of motion.

Results:

Patient follow-up ranged from 9.3 –19.1 months, with a mean follow-up period of 12.2 months. The maximum preoperative and postoperative talar coronal misalignment was 16.2° and 3.5°, respectively. The mean preoperative and immediate postoperative talar height was 28.7 mm and 33.3 mm, respectively. There was a significant improvement in talar height of 4.6 mm after revision total ankle replacement (P<0.001). There was no difference in talar height between the immediate postoperative visit and latest follow-up visit (33.2 mm). The mean preoperative and postoperative radiographic arc of motion was 19.5° and 24.0°, respectively. Ten patients (62.5%) did not sustain complications post surgical. Three patients developed a superficial wound complication that healed without additional surgery. One patient required a transmetatarsal amputation. Other complications included neuritis and DVT.

Conclusion:

Revision ankle replacement using a modular prosthesis with metal/cement augmentation allows restoration of talar height. Though we recognize this data constitutes a very early follow up, this cohort has utilized the revision ankle implant with significant repetitive load after which older generation implants underwent secondary subsidence due to poor talar bone stock. Early outcomes demonstrate a predictable method to salvage catastrophic prosthesis failure associated with severe talar subsidence and deformity. The risk of postoperative complications, although moderate, is an acceptable alternative to lower limb amputation/arthrodesis. Further follow up is warranted to determine functional outcomes and longevity of revision implant systems.
Trends in Urgent Care Utilization Following Ankle Fracture Fixation
Authors: Abousayed Mostafa , Johnson Christopher , Rosenbaum Andrew
Published: September 2018

Category:

Ankle

Introduction/Purpose:

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid services (CMS) have implemented initiatives to improve post-discharge care and reduce unnecessary readmissions. Readmissions within 30-days are frequent and represent an economic burden on patients and the healthcare system alike. A recent study reported a 3.17% readmission rate after open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of ankle fractures. While readmission implies inpatient-discharge to inpatient-readmission, patients may present to urgent care facilities and receive medical treatment without being admitted. This too has socioeconomic implications. The incidence and reasons for urgent care visits following ankle fracture surgery has not been studied. The aim of this study is to evaluate the frequency and causes for urgent care visits within 30-days of discharge after ankle ORIF and determine factors correlated with such visits.

Methods:

This was a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data. All patients who underwent ankle ORIF at our institution between 7/1/2016 and 6/30/2017 were included. Patients were identified using CPT codes for ankle ORIF ((27814, 27822, 27823, 27792, 27766, and 27829). Patients less than 18 years of age, with open fractures or with other appendicular or axial skeleton injuries were excluded. Patients’ demographics including age, sex, race, BMI, occupation, insurance payer and comorbidities were documented. The primary outcome of our study was to determine the frequency of urgent care visits within 30-days of discharge after ankle ORIF. Our secondary goals were to evaluate the association between urgent care visits and demographics, and identify the reason for post-operative urgent care utilization.

Results:

A total of 333 patients met the inclusion criteria. Fifty four percent of our cohort were males. Thirty five patients (10.51%) had urgent care visits with 30-days of discharge. Patients presented at a mean of 11.83 days from the day of surgery. Sixteen patients (45.71%) had cast/splint related issues, seven (20%) presented with pain and seven (20%) with increased surgical site drainage (Fig 1). Univariable analysis demonstrated a statistically significant association between post-operative urgent care utilization and patients with diabetes (p=0.03) and underlying psychiatric disorders (p=0.03).

Conclusion:

In this population study of patients undergoing ankle fracture surgery who underwent ankle ORIF, we found that the rate of urgent care visits within 30-days of discharge exceeds the rate of inpatient readmission. Additionally, patients with diabetes and psychiatric disorders are significantly more likely to present to an urgent care facility post-operatively. This is an important finding, as there are large costs to the healthcare system associated with this. Future studies must identify additional risk factors and means of reducing such added costs to our already stressed healthcare system.
Surgical versus Conservative Management of Weber B Fibular Fractures
Authors: Alhammoud Abduljabbar , Aldahamsheh Osama
Published: September 2018

Category:

Trauma

Introduction/Purpose:

Fibular fractures are one of the most common traumatic injuries treated by orthopaedic surgeons. These fractures range from stable to unstable, and accordingly may be treated conservatively with immobilization or operatively with open reduction and internal fixation. Unstable Weber classification type B fibula fractures are at the level of the syndesmosis. When stressed, they show an increased medial clear space widening. Recent studies have suggested these fractures may be treated non-operatively. The purpose of this study was to systematically review the literature to determine whether operative and non-operative management of Weber B fractures exhibit any difference in functional outcomes.

Methods:

For this study, the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRIMSA) guidelines were followed. A systematic review of the literature was performed on the Medline (PubMed), Ovid, and Embase databases in May 2017. Only studies analyzing surgical and non-surgical management of Weber B fibular fractures were included. A meta-analysis was performed to pool difference of the mean for functional outcome scores (Olerud Molander Ankle [OMA] score, American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Score [AOFAS], Visual Analogue Scale [VAS], and Short-form 36 [SF36] questionnaire) of the ankles of patients who underwent surgical and non-surgical management. Descriptive, quantitative, and qualitative data were extracted and analyzed using Comprehensive meta-analysis software and SPSS 21. Random effect model used to pool the difference of the mean of the outcomes and I2 to assess the heterogeneity.

Results:

Of the 823 articles identified, four studies met inclusion criteria for the meta-analysis. A total of 383 unstable Weber type B fibular fractures were identified, with 198 treated operatively and 161 treated non-operatively. There were 158 (41.2%) male and 225 (58.8%) female patients, who averaged 45.6 years of age (Table). Mean follow up was 27.3 months. The pooled mean difference (SMD) for OMA functional score did not show any statistically significant difference between surgical and non-surgical management (SMD = 12.364 [95% CI: -4.684, 29.413]; I2 = 91.93%), although each single paper highlighted the superiority of non-surgical management. Other functional scores could not be pooled because they were not consistently reported within the included studies.

Conclusion:

The early literature suggests that there is no difference in the clinical outcomes of unstable Weber B fractures, whether they are treated operatively or non-operatively. Longer-term studies are warranted to examine the clinical outcomes of patients managed non-operatively.
The Role of the Calcaneofibular Ligament in Chronic Ankle Pain Following Severe Ankle Sprains
Authors: Alvarez Richard , Marx Randall , Mizel Mark , Latta Loren , Clifford Paul
Published: September 2018

Category:

Sports

Introduction/Purpose:

Lateral ankle pain persists in 10%-20% of patients following severe ankle sprains treated non-operatively. The authors hypothesize that the peroneal tendons may become interposed between the ruptured ends of the calcaneofibular ligament (CFL). Though previously visualized and noted in the literature, no studies have evaluated this lesion biomechanically and anatomically. The purpose of this study is to demonstrate that following a severe lateral ankle sprain that the interposition of the peroneal tendons between the ruptured ends of the CFL can occur.

Methods:

Eight fresh-frozen cadaveric lower extremity specimens (defrosted) were secured by the foot to a wooden board in the method of Lauge-Hansen. A manual inversion force was then applied to the ankle, both with the ankle in plantar flexion and also in a neutral position to approximate a severe ankle sprain. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was then performed on each ankle. Each specimen was then dissected to observe the integrity and relationship of the lateral ankle structures.

Results:

Four of the eight specimens sustained CFL tears as viewed by MRI and confirmed through anatomic dissection. One of the four specimens with a CFL tear had a mid substance ligament rupture with the proximal half of the ligament positioned superficial to the peroneal tendon complex. This relationship was observed using the MRI.

Conclusion:

Creating severe lateral ankle sprain produced ruptures of the CFL with interposition of the peroneal tendon complex between the torn ends of the ligament was seen and identified. This phenomenon may prevent primary ligament healing of the CFL and may be a contributing factor in the chronic ankle pain of non-surgically treated lateral ankle sprains. Perhaps surgical intervention should be considered if clinical suspicion exists, such as with a Stener lesion of the hand.
Novel, vacuum-assisted method for harvesting autogenous cancellous bone graft and bone marrow from the proximal tibial metaphysis
Authors: Bagi Paul , Walls Raymond
Published: September 2018

Category:

Other

Introduction/Purpose:

Autogenous cancellous bone graft and bone marrow aspirate are commonly used in lower extremity fusion procedures. Autologous graft is considered the gold standard as it is osteogenic, osteoinductive, and osteoconductive, and is without the potential risks of graft-associated infection and immunologic reaction. Disadvantages include graft harvest time and donor site morbidity due to the surgical incision, approach and bone corticotomy. This study evaluated the safety and efficacy of a novel vacuum-assisted bone graft harvesting device which was able to obtain both cancellous bone and bone marrow for insertion into the arthrodesis sites of patients undergoing complex primary and revision lower extremity fusion procedures.

Methods:

Between March and November 2017, 9 patients had a foot and/or ankle complex primary or revision arthrodesis performed, with autogenous cancellous graft and bone marrow harvested from the ipsilateral proximal tibia. All patients were 18 years or older with no prior history of knee pain, injury, or surgery at the proximal tibia. Following a circular corticotomy, cancellous bone was harvested using a novel suction-powered, hand-driven bone curettage system (Avitus Orthopaedics, Farmington, CT). The donor site was backfilled with bone graft substitute. Incision length was recorded as well as surgical time from donor site incision to completion of graft acquisition. The volume of cancellous graft and bone marrow were separately recorded. All patients were non-weight bearing on the involved extremity for a minimum of 6 weeks post-operatively and all were evaluated at 2 and 6 weeks post-operatively for donor site pain and associated complications.

Results:

There were five male and four female patients with an average age of 51 years and 8 months. Procedures included six complex primary fusions and three revision subtalar or tibio-talar-calcaneal fusions for nonunion. Mean incision length was 2 cm (range 1.80-2.75 cm). Mean volume of obtained graft material included 25 cm3 of cancellous bone (range 9-30 cm3) and 21 cm3 bone marrow aspirate (range 10-40 cm3). Mean procedure time was 5 mins (range 4-8 mins), and average blood loss was less than 1 mL. Two patients had mild pain at 2 week follow-up; however, no patients reported donor site pain at 6 week follow-up. There were no major or minor complications including fracture, infection, hematoma formation, sensory changes, or wound healing issues.

Conclusion:

The use of an innovative, vacuum-assisted bone harvesting device allows large volumes of autogenous cancellous bone graft and marrow to be rapidly and readily obtained from the ipsilateral proximal tibia with minimal donor site morbidity.
CT Features of Naviculocuneiform Coalitions
Authors: Chun Kyung Ah , Suh Jin Soo
Published: September 2018

Category:

Midfoot/Forefoot

Introduction/Purpose:

The purpose of our study was to evaluate and compare the CT features in patients with symptomatic and asymptomatic naviculocuneiform coalition

Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed the CT images of 37 naviculocuneiform coalitions in 26 patients (mean age 30 years). The 26 patients were 12 males and 14 females, with 19 right and 18 left feet, including 11 patients with bilateral coalition. The CT images were analyzed with regard to irregular articular surface, subchondral sclerosis, subchondral cyst, bone spur, joint space distance, loose body and bony fusion. The size of subchondral cyst was measured. The location and extent of joint involvement was also evaluated. CT features were compared between symptomatic and asymptomatic feet.

Results:

There were 20 feet (54%) in symptomatic group and 17 feet (46%) in asymptomatic group. The mean size of the subchondral cyst was 6.3 mm in the symptomatic group and 2.5 mm in the asymptomatic group (statistically significant). Bone spurs were significantly more common in the symptomatic group (11 of 20 feet) than in the asymptomatic group (2 of 17 feet) (p < 0.01). All 8 feet received operative treatment had subchondral cysts (mean size 6.7 mm) or bone spurs. Irregular articular surfaces were seen in all feet. Subchondral sclerosis, joint space distance, loose body, location and extent of joint involvement did not differ statistically significantly between two groups.

Conclusion:

Because of a statistically significant overlap of CT features, only large subchondral cysts and bone spurs can be more commonly detected with CT in the symptomatic feet compared to the asymptomatic feet, and may indicate aggressive treatment in patients with naviculocuneiform coalition.
Mid-term outcomes of minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis for fresh and old calcaneal fractures with locked plate
Authors: Fujiwara Tatsuji
Published: September 2018

Category:

Trauma

Introduction/Purpose:

Since the mid-1990s, open reduction and internal fixation via an extended L-shaped lateral approach has been considered the gold standard for surgical treatment of displaced intraarticular calcaneal fractures. However, postoperative wound healing complications, including wound infection, skin edge necrosis, wound breakdown, and hematoma, remain a major concern. To minimize the incidence of and offer rigid stabilization of the calcaneal fracture fragments, we have performed minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) with locked plate for fresh and old calcaneal fractures. This study aims to assess the clinical and radiological mid-term outcomes in surgical treatment of the fresh and old calcaneal fractures using a minimally invasive technique and a locking plate to permit early weight bearing.

Methods:

A total of 29 fractures in 24 patients were found that met our inclusion criteria. 23 foots were fresh calcaneal fractures with an average age of 53.9 years (range, 17-80 years). We defined calcaneal fractures more than 6 weeks old as old calcaneal fracture. 6 foots were old calcaneal fractures with an average age of 43 years (range,35-52 years). Patients with fresh calcaneal fracture had been followed up for an average of 25.8 months (range, from 18-65 months). Patients with old calcaneal fracture had been followed up for an average of 29.4 months (range, from 24-48 months). The mean interval between injury and operation was 8.9 days (3-19 days) in fresh calcaneal fractures and 97 days (43-154 days) in old calcaneal fractures. There were 19 foots Sanders type II fractures, 9 foots Sanders type III and one Sanders type IV.

Results:

For fresh calcaneal fractures, the mean change in Böhler’s angle and width of the calcaneus from immediately after surgery to final follow-up were 0.5° and 0.7 mm, respectively. For old calcaneal fractures, the mean change in Böhler’s angle and width of the calcaneus from immediately after surgery to final follow-up were 3.4° and 1.7 mm, respectively. The reduction was graded as nearly anatomical (less than 2 mm residual articular displacement) in all fractures. One of the 22 foots had a blister. There were no events of osteomyelitis or infection or nonunion. Eight foots had revision surgery for symptomatic hardware removal. At final follow up the average American Foot and Ankle Society Score (AOFAS) were 82.8 for fresh calcaneal fractures and 83.2 for old calcaneal fractures.

Conclusion:

This study is first report to show that MIPO with locked plate and early weight bearing can be effectively treated for displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures. Surgical preparation, reduction maneuvers, and fixation techniques can take time to master; however, with experience, all types of calcaneus fractures can be treated with this technique.
Opioid Prescribing Patterns of the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society
Authors: Hagemeijer Noortje , Donahue Gabrielle , Helmerhorst Gijs , Guss Daniel , Kerkhoffs Gino , DiGiovanni Christopher , Johnson Anne
Published: September 2018

Category:

Other

Introduction/Purpose:

Amid the current opioid epidemic in the United States, surgeons are forced to more carefully manage postoperative pain prescriptions. Despite the enthusiastic engagement of physicians, politicians and the general public, however, clear guidelines for opioid prescribing postoperatively still do not exist, including after foot and ankle surgery. Given the ablity to improve patient outcomes by decreasing treatment variability in other realms of medicine, this study sought to quantify the postoperative opioid prescribing regimens of American foot and ankle surgeons as an initial step towards understanding prescription patterns and establishing a baseline regimen from which future guidelines may stem.

Methods:

A total of 1235 active and candidate members of the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) from the United States and Canada were invited to fill out a postoperative pain management survey using a Research Electronic Data Capture (REDCap) web-based application. Surgeons were asked to report on their pain prescription regimens, including type and number of pills, after nine common foot and ankle procedures rated as minor, moderate, or major in severity. The presence of a regional block anesthesia was also recorded. Opioid prescriptions were then converted to the equivalent of 5 mg oxycodone pills for standardization and inter-prescriber comparison.

Results:

Two hundred twenty-four (18%) surgeons completed the survey. Because of highly skewed data results are reported as medians and the range. Postoperative opioid prescriptions, given in oxycodone 5 mg pill equivalents, were as follows: 39 (8-133) pills for minor procedure, 45 (10-180) pills for a moderate soft tissue procedure, 53 (16-186) pills for a moderate bony procedure, and 60 (20-200) pills for a major bony procedure.

Conclusion:

Wide variation between surgeons was noted in postoperative pain management. Median prescription opioid doses vary from 39 to 60 oxycodone pills depending on procedure type. It is likely that the amount of opioids prescribed is excessive for adequate pain management, especially for smaller procedures. We propose a post-operative pain regimen that limits the number of pills prescribed based on studies from other surgical specialties. Future studies are necessary to assess the efficacy of current postoperative pain management practices and to guide improved pain management that limits the use of opioids where possible.
Improvement of Valgus Deviation of the Lesser Toes of Moderate to Severe Hallux Valgus After Proximal Chevron Metatarsal Osteotomy and Akin Osteotomy
Authors: Jung Hong-Geun , Kang Hwa Jun , Coruna Juan Agustin
Published: September 2018

Category:

Lesser Toes

Introduction/Purpose:

The valgus deviation of lesser toes is often found in the hallux valgus patients. It has been known that valgus deviation of lesser toes remain unchanged even after correction of hallux valgus. The purpose of this study was to determine whether valgus deviation of lesser toes can be corrected after proximal chevron metatarsal osteotomy (PCMO) and Akin osteotomy for the hallux valgus patients, and to evaluate the factors affecting the degree of correction.

Methods:

The study is based on 116 feet (89 patients) of moderate to severe hallux valgus that underwent proximal chevron metatarsal osteotomy with Akin ostetomy. Hallux valgus angle (HVA), inter-metatarsal angle (IMA), valgus angle of 2nd, 3 rd, 4th metatarso-phalangeal joint were assessed preoperatively and postoperative 6 month, 1 year and yearly. VAS pain cores, American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society metatarsophalangeal-interphalangeal (AOFAS MTP-IP) scale and patient satisfaction were evaluated preoperatively and at subsequent follow-up.

Results:

The average follow-up was 30.6 months (range,12-99). The mean HVA and IMA reduced from 34.4° to 8.7° and 15.9° to 5.3° respectively at the final follow-up. Patients with more severe HVA showed higher degree of valgus deviation of lesser toes than those with lesser HVA. The valgus angle of 2nd,3 rd,4th MTP joints reduced from 8.9°, 6.7°, 2.4° preoperatively to 5.6°, 4.9°, 1.3° respectively at the final follow-up (p<0.05). The more HVA corrected, the more valgus deviation of lesser toe was found corrected. There was no significant difference in the degree of lesser toe correction angle according to follow up period after postoperative 1 year. The mean VAS and AOFAS scores significantly improved from 6.0, 60.9 to 1.2, 92.0 at the final follow-up, respectively (P<0.05).

Conclusion:

Unlike the previous reports, the current study showed significant reduction of the valgus angle of 2nd, 3 rd, 4th MTP joints after PCMO and Akin osteotomy for the moderate to severe HV without additional corrective lesser toe surgery.
The Value of Axial Loading 3D CT as a Substitute for Full Weightbearing 3D CT
Authors: Kang Chan , Lee Gi-Soo , Kang Dong-Hun , Kim Dong Yeol , Seo Gangwon , Choi Bo Sung , Hwang Sungjin , Ahn Ki jun , Song Seokhwan , Song Jaehwang
Published: September 2018

Category:

Other

Introduction/Purpose:

Full weightbearing(WB) three dimensional computed tomography(3D CT) is an excellent imaging tool. However, due to its high cost, it is only used in a few hospitals. We evaluated the usefulness and cost-effectiveness of axial loading(AL) 3D CT by comparing bony alignments with standing radiographs, and assessed reproducibility according to the degree of AL.

Methods:

Eighty patients(156 feet), who underwent standing radiographs and 3D CT with an AL device from January 2016 to May 2017, were investigated. According to the degree of AL(AL force×100/body weight), the patients were randomly assigned to three groups: Group A(30-50%; n=21, 40 feet), Group B(50-70%; n=32, 63 feet), and Group C(70-100%; n=27, 53 feet). The following angles were measured three times by two orthopedists: hallux valgus(HVA), 1st-2nd intermetatarsal(IMA1-2), and talo-navicular coverage(TNCA), calcaneal pitch(CPA), talo-1st metatarsal(T1MA), and talo-calcaneal angle(TCA). Agreements between the two imaging methods were analyzed and compared according to the degree of axial loading in each group.

Results:

Intra- and interobserver reliability was excellent (>0.75). In Group A(30-50% AL), all of the angles except HVA and IMA1-2 differed (p<.05). In Group B(50-70%), TNCA (p= .023), T1MA (p= .017), and TCA (p=.035) differed. In Group C(70-100%), none of the angles differed between the two imaging methods (p> .05). Higher agreement between the two imaging methods was realized when 70% or more(>70%) AL was applied.

Conclusion:

AL 3D CT with >70% axial load has full WB effects and can be substituted for expensive full WB 3D CT.
Reproducible measurements for radiographically assessing longitudinal tarsal axes of severe cavus or flatfoot deformity
Authors: Kido Masamitsu , Ikoma Kazuya , Hosokawa Toshihiro , Imai Kan , Maki Masahiro , Ohashi Suzuyo , Kubo Toshikazu
Published: September 2018

Category:

Other

Introduction/Purpose:

Calcaneal pitch and Meary’s angles are commonly used to assess longitudinal foot arches on lateral-view radiographs. Several different methods have been described in literatures to obtain the talar, first metatarsal, calcaneal, and plantar axes, but their reliability and reproducibility still remain to be evaluated. The aim of this study was to determine the most reproducible methods for radiographically evaluating the longitudinal axes.

Methods:

Standing radiographic images of 40 feet from consecutive outpatients, 22 feet with a severe cavus deformity and 48 feet with a severe flatfoot deformity, were obtained to measure the longitudinal axes of the talus, first metatarsal, calcaneus and plantar surface by using six, five, four and three different methods, respectively, that were described in the previous reports (Figure). Interobserver and intraobserver correlation coefficients were calculated by three observers.

Results:

The best interobserver and intraobserver correlation coefficients were obtained for methods that used a line bisecting the angle formed by the lines tangential to the superior and inferior margins of the talus (Method B), a line connecting the center of the first metatarsal head and the midpoint of the visualized base of the first metatarsal (Method J), and a line drawn tangential to the inferior surface of the calcaneus (Method L). For the plantar axis, the method that used the horizontal plane [reference axis] was considered the best.

Conclusion:

The above mentioned methods were considered ideal for the radiographic assessment of longitudinal foot arches, even in severely deformed feet. This study could contribute to standardized assessments of foot deformities.
Hallux valgus correction using Scarf-Osteotomy leads to shortening of the first metatarsal
Authors: Lenz Christopher , Borbas Paul
Published: September 2018

Category:

Bunion

Introduction/Purpose:

In hallux valgus deformity less weight can be borne by the first ray which may lead to transfer metatarsalgia and lesser toe deformities. Depending on the exact configuration of the bone cuts during the scarf procedure, an iatrogenic shortening of the first metatarsal may occur which may diminish weightbearing ability of the first ray as well, causing transfer metatarsalgia. The aim of the present study was therefore to determine preoperative and postoperative changes in length of the first metatarsal by using different methods of measuring metatarsal length.

Methods:

A consecutive series of 118 feet in 106 patients (89% female, 11% male) was enrolled, who underwent correctional osteotomy (Scarf-with/without Akin-Osteotomy) from May 2015 to July 2017 at a single institution. Patients, who underwent additional shortening osteotomy of the metatarsals, were excluded. Average age at the time of surgery was 51 years (range, 14 to 83 years). Pre- and postoperative angle measurement of hallux valgus- and intermetatarsal angle was assessed at between six weeks and three months postoperatively on standardized weight-bearing radiographs in dorsoplantar plane. We also identified early complications in hallux valgus surgery. An assessment and comparison of different methods of measuring metatarsal length (length of first metatarsal, ratio first to second metatarsal, Coughlin method) postoperatively was performed to identify the amount of shortening with this technique.

Results:

Hallux valgus angle was statistically significant reduced by an average of 18.6° (28.3° preoperatively to 9.7° postoperatively, p < 0.001), intermetatarsal angle by 7.7° (12.8° to 5.1°, p < 0.001). Measuring the length of the first metatarsal, in all three methods a statistically significant reduction of the first metatarsal length could be detected. Mean absolute shortening of 1.8 mm was measured (p < 0.001). The ratio of the first metatarsal to the second metatarsal averaged -0.03 (p = 0.02). The mean relative lengthening of the second metatarsal, using the method described by Coughlin, was 0.42 mm (from 4.51 to 4.89 mm, p < 0.001) on average. Of those three methods, the Coughlin method showed the highest correlation. 6 minor complications were observed (5%).

Conclusion:

In the current study we could demonstrate a significant reduction of hallux valgus angle and intermetatarsal angle with hallux valgus correction using Scarf-/Akin-Osteotomy, with a low complication rate. However, statistically significant shortening of the first metatarsal could be detected as well. Further research is required to improve and establish a hallux valgus correction technique without shortening of the first metatarsal.
Does Concurrent Distal Tibiofibular Joint Arthrodesis Affect the Nonunion and Complication Rates of Tibiotalar Arthrodesis?
Authors: Neumann Julie , Weinberg Maxwell , Zhang Chong , Saltzman Charles , Barg Alexej
Published: September 2018

Category:

Ankle

Introduction/Purpose:

Tibiotalar arthrodesis is generally a successful treatment option for patients with end stage ankle arthritis. However, there is a 9% risk of nonunion in patients undergoing primary tibiotalar arthrodesis. To date, it is unclear whether concurrent distal tibio-fibular joint arthrodesis affects this nonunion rate as there have been no studies directly comparing patients with and without arthrodesis of the distal tibio-fibular joint. The purpose of this clinical study is to compare the rate of nonunion in patients with a distal tibio-fibular fusion to those without a distal tibio-fibular fusion in the setting of a primary, open ankle arthrodesis. The hypothesis of this study was that the addition of a distal tibio-fibular fusion would decrease the nonunion rate in patients undergoing open ankle arthrodesis.

Methods:

This is a retrospective review of 521 consecutive patients from October 2002 to April 2016. 366 ankles from 354 unique patients met inclusion criteria. All patients underwent primary, open tibiotalar arthrodesis. 250 patients underwent open tibiotalar arthrodesis with a distal tibio-fibular fusion and 116 patients underwent open tibiotalar arthrodesis without a distal tibio-fibular fusion. Age, gender, body mass index, smoking, and preoperative radiographic deformity were controlled. The primary outcome measure was nonunion rate of tibiotalar arthrodesis. Secondary outcome measures were time to union, rate of wound complications, and rate of development of post-operative deep vein thrombosis (DVT)/Pulmonary embolism (PE).

Results:

Average age of the patients was 56.2 +/- 14.2 years. Mean follow-up time was 33.8 months. Unions were assessed on routine post-operative radiographs and by clinical examination. If there was a concern for nonunion, computerized tomography scan was utilized for further assessment. Nonunion rate of patients who had the distal tibio-fibular joint included was 19/250 (8%) and nonunion rate of those who did not have the distal tibio-fibular joint fused was 14/116 (12%) (p=0.16). There was no significant difference between those who had the distal tibio-fibular joint included versus who did not in wound complication rate (27% vs 31%, p=0.40), time to union (4.9 weeks versus 5 weeks, p =0.54), and DVT/PE rate (5% vs 3%, p=0.41), respectively [Table 1]. There were no major complications.

Conclusion:

To our knowledge, this is the first study directly comparing nonunion rates and complication rates in patients who underwent primary, open ankle arthrodesis with and without distal tibio-fibular joint arthrodesis. In this study, inclusion of the distal tibio-fibular joint in tibiotalar arthrodesis does not affect nonunion rate in patients undergoing primary, open ankle arthrodesis. Additionally, inclusion of the distal tibio-fibular joint does not affect rate of wound complication, time to union, and DVT/PE rate.
Do Pain, Functional Disability, and Gait in End-stage Ankle Arthritis Worsen with Associated Varus Coronal Plane Deformity?
Authors: Ramaskandhan Jayasree , Allport Jack , Siddique Malik
Published: September 2018

Category:

Ankle Arthritis

Introduction/Purpose:

There is paucity of literature on quantitative gait changes in patients with increased coronal plane deformity along with end stage ankle arthritis. We aimed to study the difference in spatial temporal parameters of gait and patient reported functional measure in patients with end stage arthritis and no coronal plane deformity vs. varus deformity of >10?

Methods:

All patients diagnosed with end stage arthritis between April 2016 and December 2017 underwent an objective gait assessment using Tekscan system (BioSense Medicals, UK) as part of routine clinical practice. Of this cohort, patients with bilateral ankle arthritis, previous reconstructive surgery, inflammatory arthritis, hip and knee arthritis, spinal pathology and underlying neurological conditions were excluded. Patients with unilateral ankle arthritis for a diagnosis of osteoarthritis or post traumatic arthritis were included in this study. These patients were grouped into Group A (no coronal plane deformity) vs. Group B (varus deformity of more than 10?). In these patients differences were studied between the groups for temporal spatial parameters of gait and functional disability levels measured by MOX-FQ scores. Statistical tests included normality tests, student t’tests, chi square evaluation and analysis of variance tests with SPSS.

Results:

Of 33 patients, 22 were in Group A (N=22) and 10 in Group B (N=10). There was no difference in mean age between groups (61.5 vs. 65.07; p=0.335; diagnosis was predominantly OA in both groups MOX-FQ: -  There were similar levels of pain (p=0.570), difficulty with walking / standing (p=0.492) and restriction in social activities (p=0.869) reported Quantitative gait measures: -  For spatial parameters, there was no difference between groups; p>0.05. -  For temporal parameters, there was decreased step time(s) (0.67 vs. 0.61) and mid stance times (0.38 s vs. 0.30 s) in Group B; borderline statistical significance (p=0.052). -  There was increase in stride velocity measured in Group B (79.1 ± 22.7 m/s) compared to Group A (64.0 ± 18.1 m/s), (p=0.05).

Conclusion:

-  Although there were no differences in functional levels of pain, difficulty with walking / standing and restriction in social activities, measured by MOX-FQ, there were differences observed in objective gait parameters. -  Patients in both groups demonstrated antalgic gait patterns; this was slightly increased in varus group. -  There is a trend for reduction in temporal parameters and stride velocity in patients with end stage ankle arthritis and coronal plane deformity >10?, when compared to patients with end stage arthritis and no coronal plane deformity -  Larger clinical study with increased sample size is required to confirm these findings.
Delayed presentation or delayed diagnosis? A retrospective study of prospectively collected data of 482 foot and ankle injury cases
Authors: Shah Rajiv
Published: September 2018

Category:

Trauma

Introduction/Purpose:

Delayed presentation of injury cases is common in developing countries due to lack of resources as well as lack of awareness. Such cases pose a great management challenge to clinicians. Study aimed to find out every possible responsible factor responsible for delayed presentations would guide towards targeted preventive measures. Foot and ankle orthopaedics being in infancy in developing country like India, foot and ankle injuries do present late. We took up a study to document and analyse the reasons for delayed presentations of foot and ankle injuries.

Methods:

Retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data from 482 foot and ankle injury cases treated at our three foot and ankle centres over past four years was done. Delayed presentation was defined as cases presenting to us at or after 3 weeks of injury and all these cases formed inclusion criteria. Delayed presenting cases without complete records and cases who were lost to follow up were excluded from this study. Reasons for delayed presentations were charted and further analysed.

Results:

Ninety eight delayed presenting cases (out of 482 cases) were divided in two groups. First group (28 cases) never got treated by orthopaedic surgeons, was labelled as ‘Direct delayed presentation group’. Second group (72 cases) who got treated by orthopaedic surgeons, but could not be diagnosed initially and presented late was labelled as ‘Indirect delayed presentation group’. Direct group cases initially followed home, quack or family physician’s remedies. Failure to suspect injury (5 cases) and failure to diagnose injury (67 cases) were reason subgroups in indirect group. Failure to diagnose injury was due to failure of clinico-radiological analysis (analytical failure (15 cases)) or due to failure of investigating case further (investigative failure (10 cases)). Forty two cases had combined analytical and investigative failures.

Conclusion:

In developing countries like India, many patients neglected their foot and ankle injuries and presented late. However clinicians were found to be more responsible for generating indirect delayed presentations by the way of failing to diagnose timely presented injury cases! This is contrary to common belief that in developing countries, patients would be solely responsible for delayed presentations! As delayed diagnosis by clinicians seemed more alarming than delayed presentation by patients, preventive education should also be imparted to clinicians over and above to patients. Study of such a scenario in developed countries would be interesting.
Total Ankle Arthroplasty with Simultaneous Versus Secondary Hindfoot Arthrodesis
Authors: Taylor Michel , Cody Elizabeth , Easley Mark , Parekh Selene , Nunley James , Adams Samuel
Published: September 2018

Category:

Ankle Arthritis

Introduction/Purpose:

Total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) for ankle arthritis leads to a more normal gait pattern compared to ankle arthrodesis, prompting many to hypothesize that TAA slows development of adjacent joint arthrosis. However, following TAA, patients may also develop hindfoot pain, deformity and dysfunction, ultimately requiring arthrodesis procedures. Many patients with AA also have subtalar and/or talonavicular arthrosis. In these cases, simultaneous TAA and hindfoot arthrodesis may be performed. Previous studies have found that TAA in conjunction with hindfoot arthrodesis procedures led to inferior outcomes compared to isolated TAA. The purpose of this analysis was to compare the functional outcomes of simultaneous vs. subsequent hindfoot arthrodesis procedures and to describe the change, if any, in outcome scores following a subsequent hindfoot arthrodesis procedure.

Methods:

After receiving Institutional Review Board approval, the TAA database at our institution was reviewed for all TAA performed between 1998 and 2015. All patients who received a TAA and either a simultaneous or subsequent hindfoot arthrodesis with at least two years of clinical follow up were included in the analysis. All surgeries were performed by one of three fellowship-trained orthopaedic foot and ankle surgeons with extensive experience in TAA and associated hindfoot arthrodesis procedures. Outcome measures included preoperative and 2-year postoperative visual analog scale (VAS) scores, Short Musculoskeletal Function Assessment (SMFA), Short Form (SF)-36 and American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle-Hindfoot scores.

Results:

64 patients met the inclusion criteria. 39 patients underwent TAA with simultaneous hindfoot arthrodesis (Sim) and 25 underwent a subsequent arthrodesis procedure (Sub) an average 22.2 months following TAA. 20 patients underwent double arthrodesis (11 Sub) and 44 patients underwent subtalar fusion (14 Sub). There were no differences in preoperative questionnaire scores between the two groups. Both the Sim and Sub groups experienced significant improvement in their postoperative VAS, SMFA, SF-36 and AOFAS scores. Postoperative VAS and SMFA bother scores were significantly lower for the Sim group (p<0.05). In the Sub group, there was no difference in outcome scores before and after the fusion procedure. Demographics and questionnaire scores are shown in the Table.

Conclusion:

These results support previous findings demonstrating significant functional improvement and decrease in pain scores following TAA and associated fusion procedures. However, these results also suggest that simultaneous fusion procedures may provide better reduction in pain when compared to sequential procedures. In addition, for patients who underwent subsequent fusion, the improvement experienced in terms of pain and function tends to be maintained postoperatively.
A Comparison of Cost and Complications of Total Ankle Arthroplasty and Ankle Arthrodesis for the Management of Ankle Arthritis
Authors: Tucker William , Barnds Bandon , Mullen Scott , Schroeppel Paul , Vopat Bryan
Published: September 2018

Category:

Ankle Arthritis

Introduction/Purpose:

Ankle arthritis is a relatively common ailment that affects many people. The method of surgical management of this disease process is usually an ankle arthrodesis (AA) or a total ankle replacement (TAR). Traditionally, AA was viewed as the “gold standard”, however TAR has grown in popularity. Numerous studies have evaluated the risks and benefits of each of these treatments including satisfaction, biomechanics, and cost. The purpose of this study was to compare the cost and rate of complications for patients who underwent either an AA or TAR using a large database.

Methods:

Using the PearlDiver Technologies, Inc. database, Medicare patients who were diagnosed with ankle arthritis based on ICD-9 codes from 2005 to 2014 were analyzed. Patients were identified who underwent either AA or TAR utilizing ICD-9 procedure and CPT codes. These patient groups were evaluated for postoperative complications and reoperation rates. Subjects and associated costs were followed after the initial procedure. A cost analysis based on diagnosis and procedural codes was then performed on the separate groups, using a t-test to determine statistical significance. Data was analyzed with regards to standard demographic information as well as a metric of overall patient health status, the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI).

Results:

During the study period, 673,789 patients were identified with the diagnosis of ankle arthritis. Of those, 19,120(2.8%) underwent AA and 9,059 (1.3%) underwent TAR. While the yearly rate of AA performed remained stable, TAR was performed at increasing rates. The overall complication rate in the AA group was 24.9% with a 16.5% revision rate compared to 15.1% and 11.2% respectively in the TAR group (P<0.001). Also, the AA group had a higher total reoperation rate. The CCI was found to be significantly lower in the TAR group at 4.5 versus 4.7 in AA patients (P<0.001). Patients younger than 65 years old had both higher complication and reoperation rate. The average one-year cost associated with TAR was $12,566.15 and with AA was $6,967.32 (P<0.001).

Conclusion:

While TAR was found to be a more expensive treatment option than AA in this large-scale database study, patients in this group had significantly lower complication rates. The reoperation rates were also lower in the TAR group. The CCI was noted to be slightly lower in the arthroplasty group, meaning these patients may have been healthier, representing a selection bias. Also, the patients that had complications were found to have a higher CCI on average. When choosing surgical intervention for end-stage ankle arthritis, patients should be counseled on cost differences and potential complications for TAR and AA.
Augmented Reality Guided Osteotomy in Hallux Valgus Surgery
Authors: Wirth Stephan , Viehöfer Arnd , Laurenz Jaberg , Zimmermann Stefan , Dennler Cyrill , Fürnstahl Philipp , Farshad Mazda
Published: September 2018

Category:

Bunion

Introduction/Purpose:

An optimal osteotomy angle can avoid shortening of the first metatarsal bone after hallux valgus surgery and therefore reduce the risk of transfer-metatarsalgia. Up to date the osteotomy is performed free-hand without guidance and is therefore prone to unwanted variability in accuracy. The purpose of the present ex-vivo study was to investigate whether overlaying a hologram (augmented reality, AR) would improve accuracy of the distal osteotomy during hallux valgus surgery.

Methods:

A polyamide foot skeleton was constructed based a CT scan of a cadaveric foot and covered with medical silicon soft tissue. Three different polyamide first metatarsals were inserted to simulate a light, moderate and severe hallux valgus deformity. Distal Osteotomies of the first metatarsals were performed by two surgeons with different levels of surgical experience each with (AR, n=15x2) or without (controls, n=15x2) overlay of a hologram depicting an angle of osteotomy perpendicular to the second metatarsal in the transverse plane. Subsequently, the deviation to the plumb line of the second metatarsal in the transverse plane of all 60 osteotomies angles were optically measured and statistically analyzed.

Results:

Overall, the AR-guided osteotomies were more accurate (4.9 ± 4.2°) compared to the freehand cuts (6.7± 6.1°) by tendency (p=0.2). However, while the inexperienced surgeon performed more accurate osteotomies with AR with a mean angle of 6.4± 3.5° compared to freehand 10.5 ± 5.5° (p=0.02), no significant difference was noticed for the experienced surgeon with an osteotomy angle of around 3° in both cases.

Conclusion:

This pilot-study suggests that augmented reality guided osteotomies can potentially improve accuracy during hallux valgus surgery, particularly for less experienced surgeons. However, clinical studies are needed to investigate the clinical benefit of augmented reality in hallux valgus surgery.