Proximal Aspect Research Articles

Lateral Trochlear Inclination Angle: Measurement via a 2-Image Technique to Reliably Characterize and Quantify Trochlear Dysplasia.

Background:Trochlear dysplasia (TD) is a risk factor for patellar instability (PI). The Dejour classification categorizes TD but has suboptimal reliability. Lateral trochlear inclination (LTI) is a quantitative measurement of trochlear dysplasia on a single axial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan.Hypothesis:A modified LTI measurement technique using 2 different axial MRI scans that reference the most proximal aspect of the trochlear cartilage on 1 image and the fully formed posterior condyles on the second image would be as reliable as and significantly different from the single-image measurement technique for LTI. Further, the 2-image LTI would adequately represent overall proximal trochlear morphologic characteristics.Study Design:Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 2.Methods:Patients aged 9 to 18 years treated for PI between 2014 and 2017 were identified. The Dejour classification was radiographically determined. Single-image LTI was measured on a single axial MRI scan at the most proximal aspect of visible trochlear cartilage. A 2-image LTI was measured from 2 separate MRI scans: 1 at the most proximal aspect of trochlear cartilage and the second at the fully formed posterior condyles. This 2-image LTI was repeated at 3 subsequent levels (the first measurement is referred to as LTI-1; repeated measurements are LTI-2, LTI-3, and LTI-4, moving distally). In total, 65 patients met the inclusion criteria, and 30 were randomly selected for reliability analysis.Results:Inter- and intrarater reliability trended toward more variability for single-image LTI (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC], 0.86 and 0.88, respectively) than for 2-image LTI (ICC, 0.97 and 0.96, respectively). The Dejour classification had lower intra- and interrater reliability (ICC, 0.31 and 0.73, respectively). Average single-image LTI (9.2° ± 12.6°) was greater than average 2-image LTI-1 (4.2° SD ± 11.9°) (P = .0125). Single-image LTI classified 60% of patients with PI as having TD, whereas the 2-image LTI classified 71% as having TD. The 2-image LTI was able to capture 91% of overall proximal trochlear morphologic characteristics.Conclusion:LTI has higher reliability when performed using a 2-image measurement technique compared with single-image LTI and Dejour classification. The strong correlation between 2-image LTI and average LTI shows that 91% of TD is represented on the most proximal axial image. Because the single-image measurement appears to underestimate dysplasia, previously described thresholds should be reexamined using this 2-image technique to appropriately characterize TD.

Management of Subchondral Lucencies of the Medial Aspect of the Equine Antebrachiocarpal Joint

The objective of this study is to describe the management and outcomes of eight horses with subchondral lucencies (SCLs) of the medial aspect of the antebrachiocarpal (ABC) joint. The medical records and radiographs of the carpi of 8 horses with SCLs of the medial aspect of the ABC joint were reviewed. Follow-up clinical information was obtained for 6–60 months (the median duration of 14 months). Treatment was successful if radiographic healing was apparent or lameness was reduced or eliminated. Four horses had SCLs in the distomedial radius (DMR) and four in the proximal aspect of the radiocarpal bone (RCB). Lameness was present in all horses with DMR SCLs and in one horse with an RCB SCL. Treatments included restriction of exercise (n = 3), intra-articular administration of corticosteroids (n = 2), or placement of a screw across the SCL (n = 3). Exercise restriction alone was successful in three nonlame horses younger than one year with proximal RCB SCL and intra-articular corticosteroid administration in the ABC joint in two horses aged 2 years or younger with DMR SCLs. A yearling with a large proximal RCB SCL and two horses aged 5 years or older with DMR SCLs were successfully treated with screw placement across the SCL. Exercise restrictions and intra-articular administration of corticosteroids were successful in management of DMR SCLs in five horses. Placing a screw across the SCL of three horses resulted in resolution of lameness and substantial improvement of the radiographic appearance of the lesion in the RCB or DMR.

Comparative analysis of the biomechanical behavior of two different design metaphyseal-fitting short stems using digital image correlation

BackgroundThe progressive evolution in hip replacement research is directed to follow the principles of bone and soft tissue sparing surgery. Regarding hip implants, a renewed interest has been raised towards short uncemented femoral implants. A heterogeneous group of short stems have been designed with the aim to approximate initial, post-implantation bone strain to the preoperative levels in order to minimize the effects of stress shielding. This study aims to investigate the biomechanical properties of two distinctly designed femoral implants, the TRI-LOCK Bone Preservation Stem, a shortened conventional stem and the Minima S Femoral Stem, an even shorter and anatomically shaped stem, based on experiments and numerical simulations. Furthermore, finite element models of implant–bone constructs should be evaluated for their validity against mechanical tests wherever it is possible. In this work, the validation was performed via a direct comparison of the FE calculated strain fields with their experimental equivalents obtained using the digital image correlation technique.ResultsDesign differences between Trilock BPS and Minima S femoral stems conditioned different strain pattern distributions. A distally shifting load distribution pattern as a result of implant insertion and also an obvious decrease of strain in the medial proximal aspect of the femur was noted for both stems. Strain changes induced after the implantation of the Trilock BPS stem at the lateral surface were greater compared to the non-implanted femur response, as opposed to those exhibited by the Minima S stem. Linear correlation analyses revealed a reasonable agreement between the numerical and experimental data in the majority of cases.ConclusionThe study findings support the use of DIC technique as a preclinical evaluation tool of the biomechanical behavior induced by different implants and also identify its potential for experimental FE model validation. Furthermore, a proximal stress-shielding effect was noted after the implantation of both short-stem designs. Design-specific variations in short stems were sufficient to produce dissimilar biomechanical behaviors, although their clinical implication must be investigated through comparative clinical studies.

Does Green Space Really Matter for Residents' Obesity? A New Perspective From Baidu Street View.

Despite a growing literature on the topic, the association between neighborhood greenness and body weight is inconsistent. The objective of this research is to examine the association between neighborhood greenness and residents' obesity levels in a high population density area. We accounted for three greenness features: green access, green exposure, and view-based green index. We used the novel technique of deep convolutional neural network architecture to extract eye-level information from Baidu Street View images to capture the urban vertical greenness level. The research involved a survey with 9,524 respondents from 40 communities in Shanghai. Generally, we found all aspects of horizontal greenery, vertical greenery, and proximity of green levels to be impactful on body weight; however, only the view-based green index consistently had an adverse effect on weight and obesity.

Effect of Trochlear Dysplasia on Commonly Used Radiographic Parameters to Assess Patellar Instability.

Background:Trochlear dysplasia (TD) is an important anatomic risk factor for patellar instability (PI). Several imaging-based risk factors for PI have been established, but it is unclear what effect TD has on these measurements, and the Dejour method of categorizing TD has been shown to be unreliable. The lateral trochlear inclination (LTI) is a quantifiable measurement of proximal trochlear morphology. Recently, a modified technique for measuring LTI referencing the posterior condylar angle has demonstrated near-perfect reliability and may serve as a new standard for quantifying TD.Purpose/Hypothesis:The purpose of this study was to evaluate how TD, expressed in terms of LTI, affects historically used measures of PI, including the sulcus angle (SA), tibial tuberosity to trochlear groove (TT-TG) distance, lateral patellar inclination (LPI), and Caton-Deschamps (CD) ratio. We hypothesized that lower LTI (ie, more dysplastic trochlea) will correlate with higher SA and TT-TG distances, increased patellar tilt, and more patella alta.Study Design:Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.Methods:Patients aged 9 to 18 years treated for PI between January 2014 and August 2017 were queried. On magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), LTI, SA, LPI, and the TT-TG measured at the most proximal (pTT-TG) and distal (dTT-TG) aspects of the fully formed trochlear groove were measured on axial images. CD ratio was measured using sagittal MRI as well as lateral radiographs. All measurements were performed by 2 independent observers. Patients were included if there was a diagnosis of PI that was confirmed with a chart review and if there were appropriate imaging studies to analyze.Results:A total of 65 patients met inclusion criteria for this study. Average pTT-TG distance (15.7 ± 4.5 mm) was not significantly different from dTT-TG distance (15.7 ± 4.2 mm) (P = .94). LTI had a weak but significant inverse correlation with pTT-TG (r = –0.40; β = –0.15 mm; P < .001) and SA (r = –0.43; β = –0.478°; P < .001). There was a moderate and significant inverse correlation of LTI with dTT-TG (r = –0.593; β = –0.21 mm; P < .001) and with LPI (r = –0.69; β = –0.54°; P < .001). There was a weak but significant correlation between LTI and the MRI-based CD ratio (r = 0.279; β = 0.149; P = .005). Radiograph-based CD ratio did not show a significant correlation with LTI (r = –0.189; P = .135).Conclusion:Smaller (ie, more dysplastic) LTI values correlated significantly with larger TT-TG, SA, LPI, and MRI-based CD ratio measurements. The relationship between SA and LTI is intuitive, but the relationship between LTI and the other analyzed variables suggests that they are dependent variables to TD and may not be consistent independent risk factors for PI. Together, these suggest that TD alters the radiographic interpretation of TT-TG and patellar tilt. The correlation between TD and patellar height is unclear and warrants further investigation.

Bilateral Shoulder Pain - Baseball

HISTORY: A 14-year-old right handed baseball player presents with two and a half years of insidious-onset bilateral shoulder pain. The pain is generalized in both shoulders, but worse anteriorly and in the right shoulder. He has continued to play year-round at an elite level, but he had to stop pitching due to pain. His shoulders “catch” and pain is exacerbated with rapid movements. PHYSICAL EXAM: Examination in clinic demonstrated tenderness of the anterior and posterior humeral head on the right and anterior humeral head on the left. Range of motion is limited in extension, internal rotation, and external rotation, and is full in flexion and abduction. Strength is full in all ranges of motion with pain in abduction, internal and external rotation. Hawkins, O’Brien’s, and Crank tests are positive for pain. He is distally neurovascularly intact. DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS: 1. Labral tear 2. Proximal Humeral Epiphysiolysis 3. Synovial Osteochondromatosis 4. Dysplasia Epiphysealis Hemimelica TEST AND RESULTS::Bilateral shoulder radiograph: Abnormal rounded ossific densities anterior to the right humeral head and metaphysis. Similar pattern of ossification anterior to the left humeral head,which is less well-defined than that seen in the right shoulder.Bilateral shoulder MR without contrast: Bilateral symmetric irregularly-shaped osteochondral fragments within the anterior glenohumeral joint spaces with evidence of erosions of the humeral head.Bilateral shoulder CT without contrast: Bony irregularity along the medial, proximal aspect of both humeri with clustered ossicles adjacent to the bony irregularity. No evidence of free intra-articular bodies. FINAL/WORKING DIAGNOSIS: Bilateral Synovial Osteochondromatosis of the Shoulders TREATMENT AND OUTCOMES: 1.Referred for a surgical consult, where non-operative treatment was recommended. 2.Started in physical therapy (PT). 3.Continued full participation in sports despite pain. 4.10-15% improvement after 3 months of PT. 5.Currently travelling for the winter baseball season and continuing PT at a distant site.

Exploring Proximities in Coworking Spaces: Evidence from Italy

Since the mid-2000s, the rising phenomenon of coworking spaces (CSs) has provided a flexible and mainly affordable solution for freelancers, entrepreneurs, small firms and start-ups, which may had experienced the issues of isolation when working from home, to work in a shared workplace, interact, socialize and share knowledge. This article explores the phenomenon of CSs within the theoretical framework of proximity measures a là Boschma (2005) – cognitive, organisational, social and institutional – that underpin the aspects of innovation, interaction and knowledge exchange. Though some studies on CSs have indirectly studied the different aspects of proximity, only a few of them focused on the importance of proximity measures at the workspace. With the aim to fill the gap in the literature, an empirical study was applied to Italy with 549 active CSs in 2018. The data was collected through an on-line questionnaire, addressed to a sample of 326 coworkers, focusing mainly on the set of questions devoted to understanding whether coworkers have exploited the proximity typologies in their CSs, have experienced increases in their revenues and well-being. The results are critically discussed, and some insights on policy implications are proposed.

Surgical Anatomy of the Labyrinthine and Subarcuate Arteries and Clinical Implications

To study the surgical anatomy of the labyrinthine artery (LA) and the subarcuate artery (SA), their anatomic relationships, and clinical implications, as injury of the LA can result in hearing loss. Ten formalin-fixed, latex-colored specimens were studied (20 sides). After retrosigmoid craniotomy and neurovascular dissection under microscopic magnification, 4-mm 0° and 30° endoscopic lenses were used to improve visualization. Results were statistically analyzed. The LA was a constant artery that followed the vestibulocochlear nerve into the internal auditory canal. The SA was an inconstant artery that ended in the dura mater around the subarcuate fossa in 35% of cases. The LA originated from the anterior inferior cerebellar artery in 89.3% of specimens and from the basilar artery in 10.7% of specimens. The SA branched off from the anterior inferior cerebellar artery when present. The origin of the LA was inferomedial to the vestibulocochlear nerve in most cases (71.4%), whereas the SA was usually lateral (70%). The distal portion of the LA was inferomedial to the vestibulocochlear nerve in 71.4% of cases. The distal portion of the SA was superolateral to the nerve in all cases (P < 0.00001). Knowledge of the different trajectory and anatomic relationship of the LA and the SA with the vestibulocochlear nerve is of paramount importance to differentiate them during surgery. The LA is usually inferomedial to the vestibulocochlear nerve at its distal and proximal aspects, whereas the SA usually originates lateral and ends superolateral to the nerve.

Local flaps as alast attempt to avoid lower extremity amputation: an overview

HintergrundDie Weichgewebsrekonstruktion bei alten Patienten stellt eine Herausforderung dar. Der freie Gewebetransfer kann bei gesunden Patienten trotz hohen Alters mit hoher Erfolgsrate durchgeführt werden. Bei multimorbiden Patienten, die für den freien Gewebetransfer nicht in Betracht kommen, werden häufig lokale Lappenplastiken eingesetzt, welche mit einer hohen Komplikationsrate assoziiert sind. Gerade solche Rettungseingriffe müssen so gewählt werden, dass eine Amputation durch die Wahl der Entnahmestelle nicht nachteilig beeinflusst wird oder gar unmöglich wird.MethodeDrei distal basierte lokale Lappenplastiken wie Suralis‑, Peronaeus-brevis- und Propellerlappenplastik werden im Hinblick auf die Platzierung der Entnahmestelle sowie die Komplikationen der Wundheilungsstörung diskutiert.ErgebnisseDie Entnahmestelle der Suralislappenplastik ist nachteilig, da die proximale, dorsale Wadenregion betroffen ist, die im Falle einer Unterschenkelamputation die Weichteildeckung des Stumpfes ermöglicht.SchlussfolgerungSoll eine lokale Lappenplastik als „Rettungseingriff“ als Versuch der Vermeidung einer Unterschenkelamputation bei für einen freien Gewebetransfer nichtgeeigneten Patienten zum Einsatz kommen, gilt es, Lappenplastiken zu wählen, die die Entnahmestelle außerhalb der dorsalen, proximalen Wade platzieren, um die Weichteildeckung einer Stumpfbildung potenziell zu ermöglichen.

Classifications in Brief: The Dorr Classification of Femoral Bone.

Classifications in Brief: The Dorr Classification of Femoral Bone.

Isolated Proximal Radioulnar Joint Instability: Anatomy, Clinical Presentation, and Current Treatment Options.

Isolated proximal radioulnar joint instability is an uncommon and often challenging problem that may manifest as recurrent instability of the proximal aspect of the radius, usually during forearm pronation and supination. Instability is due to deficiency of the stabilizing structures around the proximal aspect of the radius, and biomechanical studies have highlighted the importance of the annular ligament and the interosseous membrane in both transverse and longitudinal plane stability. Reconstruction of the stabilizing structures around the radial head often is indicated in cases of recurrent instability and includes joint-preserving procedures such as annular ligament reconstruction, proximal ulnar osteotomy, and interosseous membrane reconstruction. Rarely, salvage procedures such as interpositional arthroplasty or 1-bone forearm reconstruction are necessary. A thorough understanding of the anatomic structures that stabilize the proximal aspect of the radius and the complexities of forearm biomechanics is required in order to successfully diagnose and manage this condition.

Applicability of a standardized thoracic endograft with a single branch for the left subclavian artery to treat aortic disease involving the distal arch

ObjectiveCoverage of the left subclavian artery (LSA) origin during thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) is associated with increased neurologic complications. Our group is involved in the development of an off-the-shelf (OTS) thoracic endograft incorporating a left common carotid artery (LCCA) scallop and a retrograde inner branch for LSA perfusion. This study aimed to evaluate the arch morphology of patients treated by TEVAR and requiring LSA coverage to determine the applicability of this OTS device. MethodsThe preoperative anatomy of consecutive patients from three separate cohorts treated with TEVAR with LSA coverage was studied. High-quality preoperative computed tomography angiography images were analyzed on an imaging workstation. Location of the origin of the supra-aortic trunks and their anatomic relationship were depicted in all patients; the LCCA origin was set as reference point. We determined the proportion of arch morphology in our cohort of patients eligible for this OTS device configuration. ResultsThere were 196 patients included in this study, 132 in the dissection cohort and 64 in the aneurysm cohort. The median length from the lower margin of the LCCA to the proximal aspect of the pathologic process was 25.0 mm (18.2-35.2 mm), with 68.4% (n = 134) of our cohort presenting with a proximal sealing zone length >20 mm. The median LCCA-LSA distance was 20.8 mm (16.6-25.4 mm). The median clock position of the LSA from the LCCA was −10 minutes (−30 to 0 minutes). In total, 127 patients (64.8%) could have been treated with the current OTS branched TEVAR configuration; 59 were excluded for proximal neck length distal to the LCCA <20 mm and 10 because of the clock position of the LCCA, and 9 first required a vertebral artery transposition. ConclusionsThe low variability of LSA and LCCA locations in patients with distal aortic arch disease offers wide applicability of a new standardized thoracic branched endograft.

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PATELLAR MORPHOLOGY AND LATERAL PATELLAR INSTABILITY

Background: Lateral patellar instability (LPI) is a substantial cause of morbidity in the pediatric population. Previously identified risk factors for LPI include trochlear dysplasia, a lateralized tibial tubercle, genu valgum, femoral anteversion, and external tibial torsion. Less is known regarding the relationship between patellar morphology and LPI. Purpose: The goal of this study is to determine whether there exists a relationship between patellar morphology and LPI. Methods: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) evaluation was performed for patients under 18 years of age with LPI and compared to a control group of MRIs of patients with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture. Using T2 axial MRI images, the lateral and medial facet angle of both the bone and cartilage of the patella was measured at three locations: the most proximal and distal aspects of the patella where the cartilage of the facets could be identified and the widest point of the patella. The width of the patella at each point was also recorded, resulting in 15 total data points per subject (5 at each of the three locations on the patella). Results were analyzed and compared between the instability group and the control group to determine any relationship between facet angle and LPI. Results: 196 MRIs were reviewed, 97 in the instability group and 96 in the control group. The LPI group was noted to have a less steep angle at the proximal medial patellar facet of both the bone (LPI 27.2° ± 9.3° ; control 32.7° ± 8.8°, p &lt; 0.001) and cartilage (LPI 26.5° ± 8.8°, control 32.7° ± 8.4°, p &lt; 0.001) as well as a less steep angle of the cartilage at the distal lateral facet (LPI 23.4° ± 7.2°, control 25.6° ± 6.6°, p = 0.033). No other differences were noted for the remaining 12 data points. Conclusion: The are very few differences in patellar morphology between patients with and without LPI. Patients were LPI have a less steep angle of the bone of the proximal medial facet, the cartilage of the proximal medial facet, and the cartilage of the distal lateral facet when compared to a control group. [Figure: see text]

Canal Flare Index in the Canine Femur Is Influenced by the Measurement Method.

We evaluated whether differences exist among the canal flare index (CFI) values obtained by different calculation methods in the veterinary literature. The endosteal widths were measured from radiographic images of canine cadaveric femora. Three different formulae were used to calculate the CFI. The CFILT-M was the ratio of endosteal width at the medial aspect of the lesser trochanter (LT) to the midshaft (M), while the CFILT-I was the ratio of LT to the isthmus (I). The CFIPLT-I was the ratio of endosteal width at the proximal aspect of the lesser trochanter (PLT) and the I. The widths at each level and the CFI calculation methods were compared. Using Rashmir-Raven's method, the femora were typed as stovepipe, normal and champagne fluted. The limits of agreement were also evaluated. The endosteal width at the proximal aspect of the lesser trochanter was 12% wider than at the medial aspect and 8% wider at the midshaft than at the isthmus. The CFILT-M was less than CFILT-I and CFIPLT-I by 9 and 20%, respectively. By Rashmir-Raven's classification, the CFILT-M method provided 18% stovepipe, 79% normal and 3% champagne fluted femora. The CFILT-I method showed the stovepipe, the normal and the champagne fluted as 6, 82 and 12%, respectively. The CFIPLT-I method classified the femora either normal (55%) or champagne fluted (45%). The comparison of CFILT-M with the other methods using Bland-Altman analysis showed lower mean difference for the CFILT-I than the CFIPLT-I. The level of width measurements at proximal femora might have an impact on the CFI values, likewise, preoperative planning procedures and the selection of a stem type in total hip arthroplasty.

Anatomical study of dorsalis pedis artery

Background: The dorsalis pedis artery is the dorsal artery of the foot. The knowledge of any variation in the course and distribution of the artery is clinically important and it is used to record peripheral pulsation. The aim of this study was to study origin, course, relation and branches of the artery. The length and diameter of surgically important branch were recorded.&#x0D; Methods: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted at dissection hall of anatomy department at Chitwan medical college. Thirty lower limbs from fifteen cadavers were dissected for the study. Photographs were taken at different site of dissection and on finding anomalies. Newborn specimens and Conical enlargements if present were excluded.&#x0D; Results: The diameter of the artery ranged from 3.0 to 4.6mm and its length ranged between 5.6cm to 8.4cm.The length of deep plantar artery was between 5.6cm to 8.4cm. Double lateral tarsal artery was found in (24)80% of the studied specimen and (6)20% were with single lateral tarsal artery. In 90% of the specimen medial tarsal artery originated as proximal and distal branch form medial aspect of dorsalis pedis. The arcuate artery emerged directly from dorsalis pedis artery in (100%) all studied specimen. The 2nd ,3rd and 4th metatarsal artery were placed on their corresponding intermetatarsal space.&#x0D; Conclusions: Awareness of anatomical variation of vasculature of foot is important for the vascular surgeons, angiographers and reconstruction surgeons. Dorsalis pedis artery is excellent for the revascularization since it is the largest artery below the ankle joint.

ANATOMICAL STUDY OF DORSALIS PEDIS ARTERY

Background: The dorsalis pedis artery is the dorsal artery of the foot. The knowledge of any variation in the course and distribution of the artery is clinically important and it is used to record peripheral pulsation. The aim of this study was to study origin, course, relation and branches of the artery. The length and diameter of surgically important branch were recorded.&#x0D; Methods: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted at dissection hall of anatomy department at Chitwan medical college. Thirty lower limbs from fifteen cadavers were dissected for the study. Photographs were taken at different site of dissection and on finding anomalies. Newborn specimens and Conical enlargements if present were excluded.&#x0D; Results: The diameter of the artery ranged from 3.0 to 4.6mm and its length ranged between 5.6cm to 8.4cm.The length of deep plantar artery was between 5.6cm to 8.4cm. Double lateral tarsal artery was found in (24)80% of the studied specimen and (6)20% were with single lateral tarsal artery. In 90% of the specimen medial tarsal artery originated as proximal and distal branch form medial aspect of dorsalis pedis. The arcuate artery emerged directly from dorsalis pedis artery in (100%) all studied specimen. The 2nd ,3rd and 4th metatarsal artery were placed on their corresponding intermetatarsal space.&#x0D; Conclusions: Awareness of anatomical variation of vasculature of foot is important for the vascular surgeons, angiographers and reconstruction surgeons. Dorsalis pedis artery is excellent for the revascularization since it is the largest artery below the ankle joint.

AIUM Practice Parameter for the Performance of an Ultrasound Examination of Solid-Organ Transplants.

AIUM Practice Parameter for the Performance of an Ultrasound Examination of Solid-Organ Transplants.

836 Custom Fabricated Open Anterior Ankle Foot Orthosis to Promote Early Mobility with Lower Extremity Grafts

Abstract Introduction Distal lower extremity STSG’s present a challenge with the balance of early mobility and immobilization of the ankle. Traditional commercially available ambulation boots or pre-fabricated orthotics may impose circumferential compression endangering graft integrity. Custom fabricated posterior AFO’s comprised of thermoplastic, scotch cast or fiberglass materials are not recommended for weight-bearing of the lower extremity during mobility/ambulation. What may also hinder promotion of early mobility is having a multitude of injuries or advanced age with decreased ability to adhere to a LE NWB status. An anterior approach to immobilization of the ankle was thought of to free the plantar surface of the foot for weight-bearing. The open concept of the orthosis itself minimizes direct contact with the involved LE graft. This promotes graft integrity during mobility with ankle immobilization. Methods Materials: Thermoplastic material, scissors, strapping, dense adhesive foam, adhesive Velcro and a heat gun. Fabrication: Measure the point of distance between where the desired proximal end of the orthosis would be to the patient’s metatarsal heads on the dorsal aspect of the foot; double it to calculate the amount of material needed. The width of the material should be approx. 3 to 4 inches. Warm material and tri-fold it together reducing width to approx. 1 ½ to 2 inches to increase stability. Shape the folded material into a continuous oval and place on the patient’s distal LE. As the material cools, shape the oval away from the medial/ lateral aspects of the distal LE restricting the points of contact to the anterior most proximal and distal aspect of the desired splint parameters. Remove once cooled and add dense adhesive foam to the 2 points of contact that will rest against the patient. This will allow for a slight area of “give” against the patient during weight-bearing of the LE/foot. Velcro and straps are added to the proximal/distal ends of the oval; heating the adhesive side will imbed the Velcro allowing increased durability with repeated donning/doffing. Results The open construction of this orthosis allows different degrees of weight-bearing eliminating contact with the distal LE STSG. The forefoot and heel are available to weight bear safely within the confines of the open anterior ankle foot orthosis. Conclusions Patients have been trialed with/without an AD with success in the achievement of ankle immobilization with mobility. Weight-bearing instructions that accompany this splint wear is foot placement rather than a normal heel strike cadence to avoid undue pressure at the proximal aspect of the splint on the lower extremity. Applicability of Research to Practice This splint has been successfully utilized for immobilization without compromise to STSG integrity due to the anterior open support it offers the ankle. Perhaps this concept could be applied to other joints to avoid direct contact of the splint with STSG during the initial stages of healing.

Differential Contributions of the Quadriceps and Patellar Attachments of the Proximal Medial Patellar Restraints to Resisting Lateral Patellar Translation

To define the contributions of the of the medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) and medial quadriceps tendon femoral ligament (MQTFL) to lateral patellar translation as the knee moves through a 90° arc of motion. Six pairs of bilateral cadaveric knee specimens (12 knees) were dissected and potted in perfect lateral position using fluoroscopy. An eye screw was placed in the midpoint on the lateral aspect of the patella. Each knee underwent testing in 4 conditions after sequential sectioning: intact, lateral retinacular release, randomized MQTFL or MPFL sectioning, and complete proximal medial patellar restraint (PMPR) sectioning. With a custom machined jig, all knees were tested at 0, 10, 20, 30, 45, 60, and 90° of flexion on an MTS machine with 20N of lateral patellar force applied and displacement recorded. PMPR extensor mechanism insertion on all specimens was identified 50% on the quadriceps tendon and 50% on the proximal aspect of the medial patella. Isolated MPFL sectioning resulted in significantly increased lateral displacement compared to the lateral release state at all flexion angles tested except 0°. There was significantly increased lateral patellar displacement with complete sectioning compared with isolated proximal sectioning at all degrees of knee flexion except 0°. However, complete sectioning following isolated MPFL sectioning did not demonstrate significance at any angle. Compared with the MQTFL, the MPFL is primarily responsible for resistance to lateral patellar translation throughout a 0° to 90° arc of motion. The MPFL provides a similar resistance to lateral patellar displacement as the fully intact PMPR; however, the MQTFL may contribute to resistance in full extension. Proximal medial patellar restraint reconstruction techniques involving both the patellar and quadriceps insertion have been described; however, the unique contributions of the native anatomy to lateral patellar restraint have not been investigated.

Radial Reference Points for Measuring Palmar Tilt and Ulnar Variance on Lateral Wrist Radiographs.

Background: Palmar tilt and ulnar variance are crucial parameters for evaluating the distal radius. Identifying suitable reference points for these parameters on lateral wrist radiographs remains challenging. The purpose of this study was to establish reference points for measuring palmar tilt and ulnar variance on lateral wrist radiographs and to evaluate the reliability of these two parameters using the newly defined reference points. Methods: The distal articular surfaces of 25 cadaver radii were marked at four different locations using thin wires. These bones were radiographed and constant landmarks were recorded. The reliability of the palmar tilt and ulnar variance measurements was assessed using the new reference points and two serial measurements recorded by three observers on 27 standardized lateral wrist radiographs. Results: The reference points for palmar tilt on lateral radiograph were the dorsal and volar end points of the subchondral line. The subchondral line was connected to two of five metaphyseal cortical lines. The reference point for lateral ulnar variance was easily defined on the midpoint of the proximal aspect of the subchondral line. The corresponding posteroanterior central reference point for ulnar variance was at the ulnar corner of the subchondral line. Inter- and intra-observer reliabilities were overall good for the palmar tilt measurements, and excellent for the ulnar variance measurements. Conclusions: Palmar tilt can be determined accurately with a good understanding of the radiographic landmarks on lateral radiographs, and by addressing the problems caused by ulnar inclination of the articular surface of the distal radius. Lateral wrist radiographs can provide a complete picture of the ulnar border of the radius for measuring ulnar variance.