Anterior Transfer Research Articles

Anterior transfer of the long head of triceps nerve to the terminal part of the anterior division of the axillary nerve through two incisions: A cadaveric feasibility study

PurposeRestoring shoulder function after axillary nerve injury is always a challenge. Transferring a branch of the radial nerve destined to the triceps onto the anterior division of the axillary nerve has become the preferred technique. However, this is not always possible, especially when the axillary nerve is severely injured around the posterior part of the humeral neck. The purpose of this cadaver study was to assess the feasibility of transferring the nerve of the long head of the triceps through an anterior and lateral humeral neck tunnel, directly onto the branch of the anterior division of the distal axillary nerve where it enters the deltoid fibers, by two surgical approaches. Materials and MethodsThis anatomical study was performed using 6 fresh cadavers (12 shoulders). A medial brachial approach was used to locate the radial nerve and its first branch, innervating the long head of the triceps. Then a second, transdeltoid approach was made to locate the end of the anterior branch near where it enters the deltoid fibers. The long head of the triceps nerve was transected as close as possible to the muscle, to provide the longest length possible. Then an anterior and lateral subdeltoid tunnel was made to retrieve this branch through the transdeltoid approach. ResultsThe long head of the triceps nerve could always be sutured to the anterior branch of the axillary nerve. Given the 7−12 mm surplus length (mean, 8.8 mm), tensionless suturing was possible in an anatomical region amenable to easier microsurgery. DiscussionTransfer of the long head of the triceps to the anterior branch of the axillary nerve through an axillary or posterior approach remains the preferred method for reinnervating the deltoid. However, in some patients, the axillary nerve is injured at or beyond the typical microsurgical suturing zone, which means that transfer cannot be accomplished under optimal conditions. For this reason, we suggest making the transfer more distally, using a dual approach that allows direct suturing of the long head of the triceps nerve onto the anterior terminal branch, which shortens the distance between the sutured nerve and the deltoid, and should improve outcome.

Increased latissimus dorsi and teres major muscle volume after anterior transfer for irreparable anterior superior rotator cuff tear: correlation with improved internal rotation strength.

While the well-established correlation between increased muscle volume and enhanced muscle strength is widely recognized, there have been no studies assessing volumetric muscle changes in transfer surgery in the shoulder. This study aimed to evaluate changes in transferred muscle volume and their clinical implications in anterior latissimus dorsi and teres major (aLDTM) tendon transfer in patients with anterior superior irreparable rotator cuff tears (ASIRCTs). The study retrospectively examined 40 patients who underwent aLDTM tendon transfers for ASIRCTs between August 2018 and January 2022. Using ImageJ software, the LDTM muscle was segmented in T2-weighted oblique axial images, and total muscle volume (tLDTMV) of both immediate and postoperative 1-year were calculated. Pearson correlation analysis was used to determine the correlation between ΔtLDTMV and ΔASES scores, Δactive-ROM, and Δstrength. The current study revealed an 11.4% increase in tLDTMV at 1-year postoperative. Patients were grouped based on postoperative ASES score: Group 1 (Optimal, n = 17) and Group 2 (Suboptimal, n = 23). Although tLDTMVimmediate postoperative values were similar between groups (P = 0.954), tLDTMV1-year postoperative value was significantly higher in Group 1 compared to Group 2 (P = 0.021). In correlation analysis, ΔtLDTMV showed significant correlations with ΔASES score (r = 0.525, P < 0.001), ΔaROM of forward elevation (FE) (r = 0.476, P = 0.002), ΔaROM of internal rotation (IR) at back (r = 0.398, P = 0.011), Δstrength of FE (r = 0.328, P = 0.039), Δ strength of IR at 90° abduction (r = 0.331, P = 0.037), and IR at side (r = 0.346, P = 0.029). Significant increase in tLDTMV was observed at 1-year postoperative for ASIRCT patients. Notably, greater ΔtLDTMV exhibited a correlation with better ASES scores, increased aROM and strength in both FE and IR. Nevertheless, further research is required by employing more robust standardized measurement tools and a larger sample size.

Comparison of in-situ release and submuscular anterior transposition of ulnar nerve for refractory cubital tunnel syndrome, previously treated with subfascial anterior transfer–A retrospective study of 24 cases

BackgroundAlthough cubital tunnel syndrome is the second most common type of compressive neuropathy in the upper extremities, the indication and optimal surgical method for recurrent or refractory cubital tunnel syndrome remains controversial. This study evaluates the functional outcomes of revision surgery for cubital tunnel syndrome. Material & methodsThis study was a retrospective observational multicenter single-institution study including 660 patients who underwent surgery for cubital tunnel syndrome from 2010 to 2019. Among the 660 patients, 42(6.4%) received revision surgery due to remaining or recurrent symptoms confirmed with electromyography(EMG). After excluding those with concurrent elbow fracture, dislocation, osteoarthritis and wound infection, a total of 24 patients were included in the study. The patients were evaluated of disease severity, revision surgical method, time interval to recurrence, underlying diseases and postoperative functional outcomes. ResultsAll patients received ulnar nerve subfascial anterior transposition for the initial cubital tunnel syndrome surgery. Among the 24 patients (3.7%) who received revision surgery, nine received in situ neurolysis, 12 received submuscular transposition, and three received subcutaneous transfer. 21 patients (88%) reported improved mean VAS score of 4.3, while three patients complained of remaining symptoms that did not improve even after revision surgery. The patients with remaining symptoms all had underlying diabetes mellitus and were treated with subcutaneous transfer. The difference of surgical outcomes between the in situ neurolysis group and the nerve transfer groups were non-significant (p = 0.23). The most common cause of recurrent or persistent symptoms was adhesion and fibrosis at sling area. The mean follow up period before revision surgery was 26.3 months and postoperative follow up period after revision surgery was 8.5 months. ConclusionThe outcomes of this study imply that in-situ neurolysis may be as effective as anterior submuscular transfer of ulnar nerve for refractory cubital tunnel syndrome after anterior subfascial transfer.

Comparison of Anterior and Posterior Transfer of Latissimus Dorsi Tendon to Humeral Head in Patients with Massive and Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tear.

Latissimus dorsi tendon transfer is a treatment option in patients with irreparable rotator cuff tears. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness and safety of anterior and posterior transfer of latissimus dorsi tendon for anterosuperior or posterosuperior massive irreparable rotator cuff tears. In this prospective clinical trial, 27 patients with irreparable rotator cuff tears were treated with latissimus dorsi transfer. The transfers in 14 and 13 patients were from the anterior for anterosuperior cuff deficiency (group A) and from the posterior for posterosuperior cuff deficiency (group B), respectively. Pain, shoulder range of motion in forward elevation, abduction, external rotation, and functional scores were evaluated 12 months after the surgery. Two and one patients were excluded from the study due to not referring in time for follow-up and infection, respectively. Therefore, 13 patients remained in group A and 11 patients in group B. Visual analog scale scores decreased from 6.5 to 3.0 in group A (P=0.016) and from 5.909 to 2.818 in group B (P=0.028). The constant scores improved from 41 to 50.2 (P=0.010) in group A and from 30.2 to 42.5 (P=0.001) in group B. There was a significant improvement in the abduction and forward elevation in both groups which was more significant in group B. The posterior transfer made significant improvement in external rotation; however, the anterior transfer did not change external rotation. No radial or axillary nerve injury was observed in any of the two groups. Latissimus dorsi transfer in patients with irreparable rotator cuff tears has a significant effect on recovery. It improves shoulder function and range of motion and reduces pain. Improvement of shoulder elevation and abduction is more significant in posterior transfer. The anterior transfer is as safe as the posterior transfer for nerve injury.

Current understandings in congenital talipes equinovarus

Congenital talipes equinovarus is one of the most common lower limb congenital defects present at birth. The gold standard treatment is the Ponseti method and it harnesses the biomechanical properties of biological tissues. It involves serial gentle manipulation and casting. Part of this method is an Achilles tendon tenotomy prior to the final casts, boots and bars and if needed a tibialis anterior transfer for dynamic supination at a later stage. The Ponseti method does not result in normal feet but results in normal looking feet that are comfortable and function normally.

A Cadaveric Limb Analysis of the Posterior Tibial Musculotendinous Junction to determine the feasibility of Interosseous Membrane Tendon Transfer

The transfer of the posterior tibial tendon through the interosseous membrane is potentially an effective treatment to correct the deformity of the foot and ankle. Our study aimed to evaluate the anatomical feasibility of anterior transfer of the posterior tibial tendon through the interosseous membrane route using the musculotendinous junction (MTJ). Eighteen adult cadavers were used. The width and thickness of the tibial posterior MTJ, width of the interosseous membrane at the corresponding level, and the window size of the interosseous membrane were measured. Additionally, the distance between the distal end of the MTJ and the tip of the medial malleolus were recorded. The mean length of the posterior tibial tendon was 83.60 mm, the mean distance of the posterior tibial MTJ to medial malleolus tip was 45.48 mm and the mean length of MTJ was 31.74 mm. The mean width of distal end of MTJ was 7.76 mm, thickness of distal end of MTJ was 4.07 mm and the mean width of the interosseous membrane at the distal end of MTJ was 4.76 mm. We found the mean width of the proximal end of MTJ was 20.68 mm, the mean thickness of proximal end of MTJ was 5.52 mm, and mean width of interosseous membrane at the proximal end of MTJ was 8.76 mm. Our study has demonstrated that a 31 mm length incision made at approximately 45 mm from the proximal end of the medial malleolus can safely reach the MTJ. We recommend an opening length of the interosseous membrane of at least 20 mm.

Minimally invasive tibialis anterior tendon transfer in shuttle technique for the treatment of clubfoot recurrence in adolescent patients

Tibialis anterior transfer in shuttle technique using the tunnelator is an atraumatic surgical technique without injuring the extensor retinaculum. The technique allows for postoperative treatment with pain-adapted full weight-bearing for 6weeks in alower leg cast which is simplified compared to the current literature. Passive, correctable clubfoot recurrences in the event of muscular imbalance (overbalanced anterior tibial muscle). Structural movement restrictions of the foot, muscular insufficiency of the anterior tibial muscle, infection or cancerous lesions in the surgical site. Loosen the tibialis anterior muscle at the base of the first metatarsal. Guide the tendon proximally out of the extensor retinaculum, then shuttle the tendon below the retinaculum with the help of the "tunnelator" and transosseous fixation at the lateral cuneiform. Pain-adapted full weight-bearing in alower leg walking cast for 6weeks postoperatively. In the course of aretrospective study, the above-mentioned surgical procedure was carried out in 20patients (total n = 26 surgeries) between 2013 and 2019. After afollow-up of 12months, complete correction of the clubfoot relapse was found in 88.5% of cases. There were no general or specific surgical complications.

Updates in the Surgical Management of Recurrent Clubfoot Deformity: a Scoping Review.

This article focuses on the current advances in surgical management for clubfoot deformity, supported by up-to-date longitudinal studies on each approach. Long-term analysis following primary and repeated soft tissue releases has demonstrated good results in young patients with low relapse rates. Tibialis anterior transfer following the Ponseti method shows no difference in long-term pedographic analysis in comparison to the Ponseti method alone. Furthermore, tibialis anterior transfer following surgical relapses provides good long-term results with improved correction in talus-first metatarsal angle. Bony osteotomies may also play a role in addressing surgical relapses in older children. However, talar neck osteotomy may result in avascular necrosis of the talar dome. Hexapod external fixation may be considered by experienced surgeons to correct rigid clubfoot deformities in older patients with good long-term results and drastic improvements in pain perception. Long-term analysis of anterior distal tibial epiphysiodesis (ADTE) for recurrent equinus deformity following surgical correction has demonstrated statistical improvements in the anterior distal tibial angle (ADTA) and ankle dorsiflexion. Talectomy and naviculectomy are rarely used in today's practice as long-term studies have demonstrated high relapse rates and residual pain impeding patient mobility. Surgical correction following failure of the conservative approaches can be implemented to achieve full correction in clubfoot deformity. It is difficult to achieve a plantigrade feet with pain-free gait with repeated surgical interventions. Therefore, proper choice of the initial surgical technique is essential for achieving satisfactory long-term outcomes.

Tendon transfer for dysfunction of all tendons in leg excepting Achilles tendon and plantaris tendon following irreparable sciatic nerve palsy – A case report

Introduction and importanceIrreparable sciatic nerve palsy is a cause of foot drop and resulting in absent or weak most of the muscles in leg. There may be dysfunctions of all tendons in the leg excepting Achilles tendon and plantaris tendon. The treatment of this atypical neurologic injury has not been defined.Case presentationI reported a case of foot drop following irreparable sciatic nerve palsy in which there was a dysfunction of all tendons in leg excepting Achilles tendon and plantaris tendon. The medial gastrocnemius tendon and plantaris tendon were transferred into the anterior tibialis tendon, the extensor digitorum longus tendon and extensor hallucis longus tendon. The lateral gastrocnemius tendon was transferred into the peroneus brevis. Four months post-operative, he reported no pain and became capable of walking without the assistance of an orthosis or a crutch and without steppage gait.Clinical discussionAnterior transfer of the tibialis posterior tendon was the preferred procedure. If no posterior tibial tendon function was presented, then in order of preference, the extensor hallucis longus, extensor digitorum longus, peroneal, flexor hallucis longus tendon, medial gastrocnemius, lateral gastrocnemius and plantaris tendon would be used.ConclusionThe atypical dysfunction of all tendons in the leg excepting Achilles tendon and plantaris tendon following irreparable sciatic nerve palsy was presented. Tendon transfer using medial gastrocnemius tendon, lateral gastrocnemius tendon and plantaris tendon seemed to be a good choice for treatment of this injury. It allowed reconstruction of a stable, painless, plantigrade foot.Level of evidenceCase report.

The 'Hybrid method' for the treatment of congenital clubfoot.

BackgroundThe hybrid method combines the advantages of the Ponseti technique and of the French Physical Therapy method. The main goal of this study is to present our results on 139 consecutive newborns with clubfoot (n=212 feet) treated at our Institution with the hybrid method.MethodsFrom May 2010 until August 2020, 139 consecutive newborns with congenital clubfoot (66 unilateral; 73 bilateral) were treated by the hybrid method protocol and were retrospectively reviewed. All patients were admitted via the maternity ward with their family and personal history records, i.e., parental age, parity, gender, birth weight, involved side and presence/absence of associated medical conditions. At birth, all clubfeet were graded in ascending order of severity according to Dimeglio et al.’s classification system. AP and lateral radiographs of each foot are taken every 5 to 6 months from age 6 months to 2 years, then once a year until age 4 years, to assess divergence between talus and calcaneus on both projectionsResultsThe cohort counted a total of 100 boys (71.9%) and 39 girls (28.1%). Clubfoot was unilateral in 66 patients (47.5%) and bilateral in 73 (52.5%). All but 10 patients had idiopathic clubfoot deformity (92.8%). Mean number of casts per patient was 8 (range: 4–11). One hundred and thirty patients out of 139 underwent percutaneous Achilles tenotomy under general anesthesia (93.5%). Overall, tibialis anterior transfer was performed in 6/212 feet (2.8%), posterior release in 9/212 (4.2%) and medial release in 1/212 foot (0.05%).ConclusionsOur experience with the hybrid method has allowed us to constantly reduce the number of patients requiring surgery over the years, as well as the extent of surgical release. These results are encouraging, but larger cohorts of patients from different institutions and with longer follow up are needed to confirm our findings.

Radiographic and Clinical Outcomes After Tibial Tubercle Osteotomy for the Treatment of Patella Alta: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background: Patella alta is a known risk factor for patellar instability and, in the setting of recurrent patellar instability with significant patella alta, correction of patellar height with a tibial tubercle osteotomy (TTO) may help decrease the failure of soft tissue–based stabilization. Purpose: To perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of radiographic and clinical outcomes after TTO for patella alta. Study Design: Systematic review and meta-analysis; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: PubMed, OVID/Medline, and Cochrane databases were queried in June 2020 for studies reporting outcomes of TTO for patella alta. Data pertaining to study characteristics and design, radiographic and clinical outcome values, and incidence of complications and reoperations were extracted. DerSimonian-Laird continuous and binary random-effects models were constructed to (1) perform subgroup-based analysis of mean changes in radiographic indices after TTO and (2) quantify the pooled incidence of complications and reoperations. Results: Eight studies including 340 patients (420 knees) with a mean age of 24.7 ± 8.4 years were included. The mean follow-up was 53.1 months (range, 3-120 months), with 1 study reporting a mean follow-up of less than 2 years. The pooled mean anterior transfer was 5.6 mm; the mean medial transfer was 8.7 ± 1.3 mm; and the pooled mean distalization of the tibial tubercle was 12.2 ± 4.5 mm. Continuous random-effects meta-analysis determined that significant reductions in the mean Insall-Salvati ratio (1.40 vs 0.98, P < .001), Caton-Deschamps index (1.26 vs 0.97, P < .001), and tibial tubercle to trochlear groove ratio (18.27 vs 10.69, P < .001) were observed after TTO. The overall incidence of complications was 7.6% (95% CI, 4.8%-10.5%), while the overall incidence of reoperations was 14.3% (95% CI 6.2%-22.4%). Conclusion: TTO for patellar instability in the setting of patella alta results in a significant decrease in patellar height with varying degrees of medialization depending on the utilized technique. A mean postoperative complication rate of 7.6% was reported with a reoperation incidence of 14.3%, related primarily to hardware removal.

Role of Tibial Anterior Tendon Transfer Total or Split in Management of Relapsed Club Foot

ABSTRACT Background: Congenital club foot currently treated by Ponseti technique with excellent long-term outcome. However relapsed deformity developed due to non compliance of bracing wear, evertor, and invertor imbalance. Objectives: Prospective study are the full ,and split tibialis anterior transfer can be correct relapsed club foot following Ponseti technique for idiopathic club foot . Patients ,and Methods: this study was planned to evaluate radiological and functional results of tibialis anterior tendon transfer for relapsed club foot deformity after Ponseti, in 16 patients with 20 feet ,the period of follow up was at least 6 months, The average age of the patients was 6 years, ranging from3 to 9 years, 14 of them were males,6 of them were females. Results: 20 feet with satisfactory results including 13 excellent cases and 7 good cases Thus satisfactory results were found in 20 patients (100%), ,and no unsatisfactory ones. In this study, although there was significant improvement of, anterior talo first metatarsal angle (TFMA1) ,and anterior talocalcaneal angle (Kite’s angle) (TCA1) there was no significant correlation between radiological ,and functional end results. Tibialis anterior transfer has to be effective procedure in relapsed deformity, range of motion of foot and muscle function of children. Conclusion: tibialis tendon transfer either total or split can effectively correct relapsed club foot after management by Ponseti technique. Keywords: club foot , relapsed club foot ,total or split tibialis anterior tendon transfer.

Current Concepts Review: Common Peroneal Nerve Palsy After Knee Dislocations

Dislocation of the native knee represents a challenging injury, further complicated by the high rate of concurrent injury to the common peroneal nerve (CPN). Initial management of this injury requires a thorough neurovascular examination, given the prevalence of popliteal artery injury and limb-threatening ischemia. Further management of a knee dislocation with associated CPN palsy requires coordinated care involving the sports surgeon for ligamentous knee reconstruction and the peripheral nerve surgeon for staged or concurrent peroneal nerve decompression and/or reconstruction. Finally, the foot and ankle surgeon is often required to manage a foot drop with a distal tendon transfer to restore foot dorsiflexion. For instance, the Bridle Procedure-a modification of the anterior transfer of the posterior tibialis muscle, under the extensor retinaculum, with tri-tendon anastomosis to the anterior tibial and peroneus longus tendons at the anterior ankle-can successfully return patients to brace-free ambulation and athletic function following CPN palsy. Cross-discipline coordination and collaboration is essential to ensure appropriate timing of operative interventions and ensure maintenance of passive dorsiflexion prior to tendon transfer.

Technical Guide and Tips to Anterior Arthroscopic Latissimus Dorsi Transfer for Irreparable Subscapularis Tears

In young patients, irreparable subscapularis tears can be managed by latissimus dorsi (LD) transfer on the lesser tuberosity. We provide a technical guide for isolated LD anterior transfer. The surgical procedure begins with glenohumeral exploration and release of the remaining subscapularis. Then, we dissect the LD tendon below the subscapularis. At the upper and inferior borders, we dissect the LD from the teres major, protecting the radial nerve anteriorly and inferiorly. Next, we detach the LD. Inferiorly, we cut the aponeurotic expansion for the triceps. A Foley catheter is used as a shuttle relay, anterior to the axillary nerve and medial and posterior to the radial nerve. We continue with an open dissection of the LD, posterior to the axillary fossa, to release the LD from the skin and tip of the scapula. The LD is transferred on the lesser tuberosity after retrieved by the Foley catheter, with care taken not to twist the tendon. It is fixed with 2 lateral anchors and 1 medial anchor. A shoulder brace is worn for 6 weeks. Physiotherapy begins thereafter.

Combined Suspensory and Aperture Fixation of Posterior Tibialis Tendon Anterior Transfer for Dropfoot

Category:Other; TraumaIntroduction/Purpose:Anterior transfer of the tibialis posterior tendon (TPT) can restore ankle dorsiflexion in patients with foot drop. A limitation of this procedure is the need for postoperative ankle immobilisation. We present the results of a novel dual method of TPT docking which infers immediate stability, allowing early weightbearing.Methods:8 patients underwent 9 tendon transfers,age range of 28-52 years. 3 patients had dropfoot from common peroneal nerve injury, 6 cases were part of a complex cavovarus or spastic equinovarus correction. The TPT is passed to the dorsum of the foot through the interosseous membrane. The docking site is prepared with a bicortical pilot hole followed by unicortical overreaming. The TPT is whipstitched and an Arthrex biceps button is threaded to the sutures. The button is passed bicortical and flipped using a tension slide technique give stable suspensory fixation. Additional stability is conferred by overpassing an Arthrex biotenodesis screw giving aperture fixation. Patients are immobilised in a boot and allowed to weightbear immediately.Results:Follow up was 6 months. There was difficulty in docking of suspensory fixation in two of the early cases. These patients had aperture fixation and were immobilised non weightbearing in a cast for 6 weeks. With technical modifications, all subsequent patients had dual fixation. At 6 months there were no radiological or clinical failures of fixation. Patients without other underlying issues were able to mobilise splint free at 6 months. All patients were satisfied with their procedure.Conclusion:Aperture fixation with an interference screw has become the gold standard for TPT transfer, however, patients still need a prolonged period of immobilisation. Combined suspensory and aperture fixation is technically straightforward and seems to give more initial stability allowing early weightbearing. Further prospective studies and biomechanical studies are needed to validate this technique.

Technique Tip: Combined Suspensory and Aperture Fixation of Posterior Tibialis Tendon Anterior Transfer for Dropfoot

Anterior transfer of the tibialis posterior tendon is a widely used technique to restore ankle dorsiflexion in patients suffering from a foot drop. One of the limitations of this procedure is the need for postoperative ankle immobilization, which can lead to a number of complications—muscle atrophy, joint stiffness, adhesions, and venous thromboembolism, to name a few. We present a new way of tendon docking which enables patients to weight-bear immediately after surgery, thus significantly reducing the above mentioned risks. This modification addresses the weakest point of the fixation—the tendon/screw interface, by utilizing a tension slide bicortical biceps button. Our initial case series of 8 patients (9 feet) has shown good results with no patients showing late radiologic or clinical loss of fixation of the construct at 6 months follow-up. Level of Evidence: Diagnostic Level IV–case series. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Ponseti method in the treatment of post-operative relapsed idiopathic clubfoot after posteromedial release. A short term functional study

BackgroundRelapsed clubfeet deformity after surgical treatment by posteromedial release are frequently encountered in pediatric orthopedic practice and further revision surgery may be needed. As surgery adds more fibrosis and scaring, complication may be devastating and treatment is challenging. Ponseti method, the gold standard technique for treatment of clubfoot may be of a value in the management of postoperative relapses. Aim of the studyDetermine the effectiveness of Ponseti casting Method in treatment of relapsed idiopathic clubfoot in children after being treated with surgical posteromedial release. Materials and methodsProspective interventional study of 17 patients (25 feet) presented with a relapsed idiopathic clubfoot deformity after previous surgical posteromedial release. The patients were reviewed using Pirani and Dimeglio score. Ponseti method was done to obtain supple, flexible foot rather than a fully corrected foot, the residual deformity were treated by, heel cord lengthening or tenotomy, tibialis anterior transfer, follow up was for a minimum of 12 months. Result17 Patients (25 feet) their age ranging from 1 to 10 years were evaluated and treated. Casts were applied until the only deformities remaining were either hindfoot equinus and/or dynamic supination.22 feet required a heel cord procedure for equinus and 13 required tibialis anterior transfer for dynamic supination. The follow up (average 56.1 months) was for a minimum of one year. 4 feet had persistent heel varus deformity which required Calcaneal osteotomy later. Three feet didn’t need more casting and 2 feet were resistant cases that required further Ilizarov procedure, 4 needed lateral arch shortening and other 4 needed posterior capsulotomy. Improvement in the Pirani and Dimeglio scores was highly statistically significant. ConclusionPonseti method for treatment of relapsed clubfeet after a previous posteromedial soft tissue surgical release is an effective, non invasive, with excellent results.

Motion analysis and surgical results of anterior transfer of flexor hallucis longus for equinovarus gait in children with hemiplegia

BackgroundRigid equinovarus foot deformities are seen in patients with cerebral palsy (CP). This retrospective study was undertaken to evaluate flexor hallucis longus tendon (FHL) transfer with gastrocsoleus recession (GSR) using motion analyses and quantitative measurement, and to investigate postoperative complications. MethodsThis study included 10 hemiplegic CP patients who underwent FHL transfer with GSR, and were evaluated by motion analyses consisting of weight distribution in static standing position and three-dimensional gait analysis, both pre and post-operatively. They were assessed in terms of kinematic data, Gait Variable Scores (GVS), and Gait Profile Score (GPS). ResultsThe mean age at operation was 7.3 years (range, 4–13 years), and mean follow-up duration was 35 months (range, 25–64 months) post-operatively. Weight distribution at surgical site significantly rose from 34.3% pre-operatively to 47.3% post-operatively, and abnormal asymmetry of weight distribution between surgical site and contralateral site disappeared post-operatively. Maximum ankle dorsiflexion (ADF) at initial contact rose from −20.9° to −6.28°. Similarly, Maximum ADF at both stance and swing phase rose from −13.8° to 17.7° (P = 0.0003), and from −19.5° to 1.35° (P = 0.001), respectively. Although mean GPS decreased from 15.6° pre-operatively to 11.8°, which corresponded to 2.38 times the minimal clinically important difference (MCID = 1.6°), three cases manifested talipes calcaneus at final follow-up. ConclusionAlthough quantitative assessment showed that the potential value of FHL transfer with GSR was to obtain initial heel contact and maintain sufficient clearance from the ground in swing, it also revealed a risk of leading to talipes calcaneus. In the near future, we should establish accurate criteria for determination of transfer site, and consider the possibility of modification of this procedure in order to balance between recurrent equinus and significant talipes calcaneus. Study designClinical comparison between preoperative and postoperative.

Results of JESS (Joshi's External Stabilizing System) in Relapsed, Neglected and Neurogenic Clubfoot in an Age Group of 2-10 Years.

Joshi's External Stabilization System (JESS) is an external fixator based methodology to correct different deformities of club foot using differential distraction. 31 difficult clubfeet feet in 24 patients who were neglected, neurogenic or relapsed were treated using JESS between July 2013 to June 2015 with an average follow-up of 4. 2 years. There were 16 males and 8 females in an age group of 2-10 years. 30 feet belonged to the severe and most severe group as per the Dimeglio Scoring System. All patients achieved correction of all components of the clubfoot. However, one patient required tibialis anterior transfer for dynamic forefoot adduction at the end of treatment. The mean total duration in JESS fixation was 69.5 days/foot (range 44-123 days) and the mean time to achieve correction within JESS averaged 52 days. The deformities improved from a mean Dimeglio score of 14.06 to 2.93. The objective radiological assessment of the deformities revealed improvements in the talocalcaneal angle on AP view from 16.39° to 34.52° and on lateral view from 15.97° to 33.03°. The Talo-1st metatarsal angle (AP view) improved from 35.29° to 7°. Complications included 11 cases of superficial pin tract infection, two instances of pin loosening and a case of pin cut out. There were three cases of 1st metatarsophalangeal dislocation that were managed by reversing the process of distraction. JESS is an effective method for managing difficult clubfeet.

Use of PROMIS in Assessment of Children With Ponseti-treated Idiopathic Clubfoot: Better Scores With Greater Than 3 Years of Brace Use.

Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) is a well-validated tool used to measure health-related quality of life for children and adolescents with chronic medical conditions. The current study evaluates PROMIS scores in 3 domains for children with Ponseti-treated idiopathic clubfoot. This is a retrospective cohort study of 77 children, ages 5 to 16 years, treated by Ponseti protocol for idiopathic clubfoot. Three pediatric PROMIS domains (Mobility, Pain Interference, and Peer Relationships) were administered between April 2017 and June 2018. One-way analysis of variance with Bonferroni post hoc and independent sample t tests were performed to explore differences across PROMIS domain scores by sex, age, initial Dimeglio score, laterality, bracing duration, and whether the child underwent tibialis anterior transfer. In the self-reported group (ages 8 to 16), mean T-scores for all 3 domains in both unilaterally and bilaterally affected groups were within the normal range, with respect to the general reference pediatric population. However, children with unilateral clubfoot had a significantly higher mean Mobility T-score (54.77) than children with bilateral clubfoot (47.81, P=0.005). Children with unilateral clubfoot also had significantly lower mean pain scores (39.16) than their bilateral counterparts (46.56, P=0.005). Children who had braced >36 months had a significantly higher mean Mobility T-score (53.68) than children who braced ≤36 months (46.28, P=0.004).In the proxy group (ages 5 to 7), mean T-scores for all 3 domains in both laterality groups were within the normal range, with respect to the reference population. Children who had braced >36 months had a significantly higher mean Mobility T-score (52.75 vs. 49.15, P=0.014) and lower Pain Interference score (43.04 vs. 49.15, P=0.020) than children who braced ≤36 months. Children treated by Ponseti protocol for idiopathic clubfoot yielded PROMIS scores for Mobility, Pain Interference, and Peer Relationships domains similar to the reference population. Bracing duration >36 months and unilaterality were associated with less mobility impairment than their counterparts. These findings may help guide parent recommendations. Level III.