Degrees Of Plantar Flexion Research Articles

Méary's angle decoded: 3D analysis of first ray plantarflexion deformity in Charcot-marie-tooth disease

BackgroundThe typical cavovarus deformity seen in patients with Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) involves plantarflexion of the first ray. The exact apex of the deformity has never been proven, although it is presumed to be within the medial cuneiform. The aim of this study was to utilize weight-bearing computed tomography (WBCT) to localize and quantify first ray plantarflexion deformity in CMT patients. MethodsWBCTs of 16 CMT patients with lateral Méary’s angle > 20 degrees were compared to controls utilizing semi-automated analysis software. A local coordinate system based on the first metatarsal was used to avoid bias of proximal deformity. The tarsometatarsal angle was subdivided into components (cuneiform-cuneiform joint normal, tarsometatarsal joint and metatarsal-metatarsal joint normal) and compared between CMT and controls. CMT patient’s first, second and third rays were also compared. Means were compared with a 2-sample t test (p < .05). ResultsCMT patients had significantly more plantarflexion of the first ray than controls (16.4 versus 8.8 degrees respectively(p < 0.001)). The largest difference of was found at the medial cuneiform with 20.6 degrees of plantarflexion in CMT patients versus 14.8 degrees in controls (p < .0001). There was also approximately 2 degrees of plantarflexion at the TMT joint (p < .001). ConclusionsPlantarflexion deformity in CMT patients is primarily an osseous deformity at the level of the medial cuneiform with a lesser contribution from the tarsometatarsal joint. Level of evidenceIII Retrospective comparative study

Ultrasound assessment of acute Achilles tendon rupture and measurement of the tendon gap.

Achilles tendon rupture is a common sports-related injury which can carry significant morbidity to patients. Ultrasound remains the workhorse of imaging as it can confirm and localise the extent of Achilles tendon injury. The sonographic anatomy, both normal and ruptured sonographic appearances, as well as sonographic technique must be appreciated to accurately image and report findings, critical to patient management. Particular attention should be applied to the measurement of the diastasis between acutely ruptured tendon ends as this information can assist with informing the decision of conservative vs. operative management. Further work is necessary to standardise the measurement technique including correlating the degree of plantarflexion of the foot with the sonographic tendon gap measures.

Shear-Wave Elastography of the Achilles tendon: reliability analysis and impact of parameters modulating elasticity values.

Shear wave elastography (SWE) has seen many advancements in Achilles tendon evaluation in recent years, yet standardization of this technique is still problematic due to the lack of knowledge regarding the optimal way to perform the examination. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of ankle position, probe frequency and physical effort on the shear modulus of the Achilles tendon, but also to determine the intra and inter-observer reliability of the technique. 37 healthy volunteers were included; SWE protocol was performed by two examiners. We analyzed the shear modulus of the tendon with the ankle in neutral, maximum dorsiflexion and maximum plantar flexion using two different high frequency probes. Afterwards, the subjects performed a brief physical exercise and SWE measurements were repeated. The L18-5 probe showed the highest ICC values (ICC = 0.798, 95% CI 0.660-0.880, p < 0.001) when positioned at 2cm from the calcaneal insertion with the ankle in a neutral state. Conversely, utilizing the same L18-5 probe at 1cm from the insertion during maximum plantar flexion of the ankle resulted in the lowest ICC (ICC = 0.422, 95% CI 0.032-0.655, p = 0.019). Significant variations in elasticity values were noted among different ankle positions and probe types, while no significant changes in elasticity were observed post-physical exercise. Ankle position and probe frequency are factors that influence elasticity values of the Achilles tendon. An ankle position between 10 and 20 degrees of plantar flexion is the most suitable for SWE evaluation. However, more research focusing on Achilles tendon SWE is essential due to the challenges encountered in standardizing this region.

Effects of Fibular Plate Fixation on Ankle Stability in a Weber B Fracture Model With Partial Deltoid Ligament Sectioning.

Weber B fractures with concomitant deltoid ligament injury have traditionally been operated with open reduction and internal fixation of the fibular fracture. More recently, clinical studies have suggested that some fractures have concomitant partial deltoid ligament injury with the deep posterior tibiotalar ligament intact (SER4a), allowing for nonoperative treatment in this subgroup. This study explores whether plate fixation of the fibula improves ankle stability in an SER4a injury model. And if so, does it restore native ankle stability? Fifteen cadaver ankle specimens were tested in 3 states using an industrial robot: intact joint, SER4a models without plate fixation of the fibula, and SER4a models with plate fixation of the fibula. The robot measured ankle stability in lateral translation, valgus, and internal and external rotation in 3 talocrural joint positions: 10 degrees dorsiflexion, neutral, and 20 degrees plantar flexion. Furthermore, fluoroscopic mortise view radiographs were taken to measure isolated talar shift and talar tilt. The talar shift and tilt tests showed no differences between the SER4a injury model with and without fibular plate fixation at neutral ankle position with a mean difference of -0.16 mm (95% CI -0.33 to 0.01 mm, P = .071) for talar shift and -0.15 degrees (95% CI -0.01 to 0.30 degrees, P = .068) for talar tilt. However, plate fixation increased external rotation stability, with mean improvements ranging from -7.43 to -9.52 degrees (P < .001 for all comparisons), but did not restore intact ankle stability. For internal rotation, plate fixation resulted in minor differences. The results of this suggest that plate fixation of the fibular fracture primarily improves external rotation stability but does not substantially improve lateral translation, valgus, or internal rotation stability in SER4a injury models. In this robotic cadaver model, fibular plate fixation did not fully restore intact ankle stability after simulated SER4a injury. This study offers insights into the effects of fibular plate fixation on Weber B/SER4a injury models and may assist informed decisions when selecting treatments for these types of fractures.

Effects of Progressive Deltoid Ligament Sectioning on Weber B Ankle Fracture Stability.

Conventionally, transsyndesmotic fibula fractures with concomitant signs of deltoid ligament injury have been considered unstable and thus treated operatively. Recent studies have indicated that partial deltoid ligament rupture is common and may allow for nonoperative treatment of stress-unstable ankles if normal tibiotalar alignment is obtained in the weightbearing position. Biomechanical support for this principle is scarce. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the biomechanical effects of gradually increasing deltoid ligament injury in transsyndesmotic fibula fractures. Fifteen cadaveric ankle specimens were tested using an industrial robot. All specimens were tested in 4 states: native, SER2, SER4a, and SER4b models. Ankle stability was measured in lateral translation, valgus, and internal and external rotation stress in 3 talocrural joint positions: 20 degrees plantarflexion, neutral, and 10 degrees dorsiflexion. Talar shift and talar valgus tilt in the talocrural joint was measured using fluoroscopy. In most tests, SER2 and SER4a models resulted in a small instability increase compared to native joints and thus were deemed stable according to our predefined margins. However, SER4a models were unstable when tested in the plantarflexed position and for external rotation in all positions. In contrast, SER4b models had large-magnitude instability in all directions and all tested positions and were thus deemed unstable. This study demonstrated substantial increases in instability between the SER4a and SER4b states. This controlled cadaveric simulation suggests a significant ankle-stabilizing role of the deep posterior deltoid after oblique transsyndesmotic fibular fracture and transection of the superficial and anterior deep deltoid ligaments. The study provides new insights into how the heterogenicity of deltoid ligament injuries can affect the natural stability of the ankle after Weber B fractures. These findings may be useful in developing more targeted and better treatment strategies.

The Biomechanical Role of the Deltoid Ligament on Ankle Stability: Injury, Repair, and Augmentation

Background: Deltoid ligament injuries occur in isolation as well as with ankle fractures and other ligament injuries. Both operative treatment and nonoperative treatment are used, but debate on optimal treatment continues. Likewise, the best method of surgical repair of the deltoid ligament remains unclear. Purpose: To determine the biomechanical role of native anterior and posterior components of the deltoid ligament in ankle stability and to determine the efficacy of simple suture versus augmented repair. Study Design: Controlled laboratory study. Methods: Ten cadaveric ankles (mean age, 51 years; age range, 34-64 years; all male specimens) were mounted on a 6 degrees of freedom robotic arm. Each specimen underwent biomechanical testing in 8 states: (1) intact, (2) anterior deltoid cut, (3) anterior repair, (4) tibiocalcaneal augmentation, (5) deep anterior tibiotalar augmentation, (6) posterior deltoid cut, (7) posterior repair, and (8) complete deltoid cut. Testing consisted of anterior drawer, eversion, and external rotation (ER), each performed at neutral and 25° of plantarflexion. A 1-factor, random-intercepts, linear mixed-effect model was created, and all pairwise comparisons were made between testing states. Results: Cutting the anterior deltoid introduced ER (+2.1°; P = .009) and eversion laxity (+6.2° of eversion; P < .001) at 25 degrees of plantarflexion. Anterior deltoid repair restored native ER but not eversion. Tibiocalcaneal augmentation reduced eversion laxity, but tibiotalar augmentation provided no additional benefit. The posterior deltoid tear showed no increase in laxity. Complete tear introduced significant anterior translation, ER, and eversion laxity (+7.6 mm of anterior translation, +13.8° ER and +33.6° of eversion; P < .001). Conclusion: A complete deltoid tear caused severe instability of the ankle joint. Augmented anterior repair was sufficient to stabilize the complete tear, and no additional benefit was provided by posterior repair. For isolated anterior tear, repair with tibiocalcaneal augmentation was the optimal treatment. Clinical Relevance: Deltoid repair with augmentation may reduce or avoid the need for prolonged postoperative immobilization and encourage accelerated rehabilitation, preventing stiffness and promoting earlier return to preinjury activity.

Three-Dimensional Analysis of the Windlass Mechanism Using Weightbearing Computed Tomography in Healthy Volunteers.

The windlass mechanism (WM) increases the longitudinal arch of the foot via tension of the plantar aponeurosis during dorsiflexion of the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint. The purpose of this study was to perform a 3-dimensional evaluation of the displacement of each joint and the height of the navicular during dorsiflexion of the first MTP joint by using weightbearing computed tomography (CT). Participants were 6 men and 8 women with 23 healthy feet. CT of the foot with a load equivalent to the participant's body weight was performed. The first MTP joint was in the neutral position and dorsiflexed 30 degrees. Between the conditions, we measured the (1) rotation of each bone, (2) rotation of the distal bone with respect to the proximal bone at each joint, and (3) height of the navicular. With respect to the tibia, the calcaneus was at 0.8 ± 0.7 degrees dorsiflexion and 1.4 ± 0.9 degrees inversion, while the talus was at 2.0 ± 1.2 degrees dorsiflexion and 0.1 ± 0.8 degrees eversion. The navicular was at 1.3 ± 1.2 degrees dorsiflexion and 3.2 ± 2.1 degrees inversion, whereas the medial cuneiform was at 0.3 ± 0.6 degrees plantarflexion and 1.3 ± 1.1 degrees inversion. At the talonavicular joint, the navicular was at 0.7 ± 1.3 degrees plantarflexion, whereas at the cuneonavicular joint, the medial cuneiform bone was at 1.4 ± 1.4 degrees plantarflexion. The height of the navicular increased by 1.1 ± 0.6 mm. We 3-dimensionally confirmed the dynamics of WM and found that the calcaneus, navicular, and medial cuneiform moved in all 3 planes. The results suggest that the cuneonavicular joint has the greatest movement among the joints. We believe that these findings will help to elucidate the pathogenesis of WM-related diseases and lead to advances in treatments for pathologies involving the longitudinal arch. Level IV, case series.

Early-Term Results of the Cadence Total Ankle Prosthesis: An European Noninventor Study.

Although considerable literature can be found on the outcome of total ankle replacement (TAR), only a few studies have reported the results of the fixed-bearing Cadence prosthesis. This noninventor study reports a consecutive series of 60 Cadence TAR systems with a mean of 2.9 years' follow-up, focusing on clinical and radiographic outcomes and early complications. This study is the first to assess true postoperative radiographic ankle prosthesis range of motion (ROM) and to report an unanticipated serious adverse device effect. Sixty patients who underwent primary TAR with the Cadence prosthesis between July 2016 and July 2019 were clinically and radiographically evaluated preoperatively and at last follow-up after the procedure. Revisions, additional procedures, implant failure, and complications were reported according to the classifications of Vander Griend and Glazebrook. Radiographic outcomes included radiographic TAR ROM, bone-implant interface, and alignment parameters. The survival rate of the prosthesis was 98.3%. The mean radiographic ankle ROM at the last follow-up was 24 degrees (9 degrees of dorsiflexion and 15 degrees of plantarflexion). The coronal and sagittal alignment of TAR was 90.8 degrees and 3.9 degrees, respectively. Bone-implant interface analysis revealed osteolysis in 9 ankles (15%) and radiolucent lines in 33 ankles (55%) occurring at both component interfaces. Intraoperative complications were 3 periprosthetic malleolar fractures (5%). Five talar implant fractures (implant failure of 8.3%) were observed, and 1 unexplained persistent pain that required a conversion from TAR to a tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis. Clinical, radiograph ROM, implant position outcomes, and survival rate at an early-term follow-up of 2.9 years were similar to those reported in recent Cadence studies. However, this study reports 5 unanticipated talar implant fractures and a high rate of posterior radiolucent lines. Level IV, retrospective case series.

Achilles Tendon Loading During Walking Differs Between Commonly Used Immobilizing Boots

Category: Sports; Basic Sciences/Biologics Introduction/Purpose: Achilles tendon ruptures have increased 10-fold in the past three decades, leading to long-term functional deficits in nearly two-thirds of patients. To counter this, rehabilitation protocols have been developed to strike a balance between protecting the healing tendon from re-rupture while allowing patients to return to activities of daily living as early as possible. However, Achilles tendon loading is neither prescribed nor quantified during immobilization and there is no standardized method of immobilization. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to quantify the amount of tendon loading experienced while walking in 3 different kinds immobilizing boot with respect to prescribed ankle angle and walking speed. Methods: Two healthy-young adults (2M; Age: 29.6 +- 2.3 y/o; BMI: 30 +- 7) walked over flat ground while wearing 3 different immobilizing boots and athletic shoes after providing written informed consent in this IRB approved study. We calculated Achilles tendon loading while subjects walked in 3 boots that positioned the ankle in 30 degrees of plantar flexion (Figure A, Air Cam Walker, United Ortho; AirSelect Walker, Aircast, VACOped, OPED). In all three boots, an instrumented insole (Loadsol, Novel) was placed under the foot to quantify load experienced by the tendon. We calculated the Achilles tendon loading profiles during gait for each immobilizing boot and compared them against the normal shod condition. We also provided the surgical repair threshold of 0.5 bodyweights to visualize the potential efficacy of each immobilizing boot for early rehabilitation when the tendon is early in the healing phase. Results: As expected, tendon loading was highest in the shod condition with no ankle bracing and lowest in the fully plantarflexed adjustable boot (Figure B). On average, the immobilizing boots reduced tendon loading decreased by 68% compared to unsupported walking in shoes but there were differences among the boots. The 3 different immobilizing boots provided differing levels of support. The 2 walking boots that use heel wedges to support the ankle in plantar flexion provided the least support, reducing loading by an average of 60-68%. The more rigid boot that constrained ankle angle using a posterior strut reduced tendon loading by 77% compared to gait in a normal walking shoe. Based on biomechanical studies of Achilles tendon repair strength in cadaveric experiments, only the rigid boot with the posterior strut reduced tendon loading biomechanics to levels that could be resisted by the surgical repair (Figure B). Conclusion: In this study, we used an instrumented insole to quantify Achilles tendon loading in a variety of immobilizing boots used by rupture patients. Our initial findings show that tendon loading is varies greatly between boot types and patients, highlighting the importance of understanding how these loads change in patients. Our future work centers around identifying the tendon loading profiles that promote tendon healing and optimize patient outcomes. These loading profiles will then provide the quantitative data needed to personalize loading for patients and guide rehabilitation to improve outcomes.

Poster 267: The Impact of Posterior Malleolar Fixation on Syndesmotic Stability

Objectives:Trans-syndesmotic fixation with suture buttons, posterior malleolar fixation (PMF) with screws and anterior inferior tibiofibular ligament (AITFL) augmentation with suture tape have all been suggested as potential treatments in the setting of a malleolar fracture. However, there is no consensus on the optimal treatment for small vs. large malleolar fractures. The purpose of this study was to determine which combination of: 1) posterior malleolar screw fixation, 2) syndesmotic fixation with suture button (SB), and 3) AITFL augmentation with suture tape (ST) best restored native tibio-fibular and ankle joint kinematics following a small and large posterior malleolar fracture.Methods:Twenty fresh frozen cadaveric lower leg specimens were divided into two groups and underwent biomechanical testing using a 6-degrees-of-freedom robotic arm in 7 states: 1) Native, 2) Syndesmosis Injury + Malleolar Fracture (Group 1: small fracture, Group 2: large fracture) 3) Screw fixation, 4) Screw + Suture Tape Augmentation, 5) Screw + Suture Tape Augmentation + Suture Button, 6) Suture Button + Suture Tape Augmentation, 7) Suture Button. Four biomechanical tests were performed at neutral and at 30 degrees of plantarflexion: 1) Internal Rotation, 2) External Rotation, 3) Lateral Drawer, 4) Posterior Drawer. The position of the tibia, fibula and talus were continuously recorded using a 5-camera motion capture system.Results:No differences were found in the efficacy of treatments between the small fracture and large fracture groups. In the external rotation test, screws with ST augmentation resulted in best stability of the fibula and ankle joint. In the internal rotation test, all repairs that included posterior malleolar screws stabilized the fibula and ankle. Posterior and lateral drawer of the foot resulted in only small differences between the intact and malleolar fracture states.Conclusions:Posterior malleolar fixation resulted in higher syndesmotic stability compared to trans-syndesmotic fixation with SBs. AITFL augmentation with ST provided additional external rotation stability when combined with screw fixation. Posterior malleolar screw fixation with AITFL augmentation using ST may be the preferred surgical method when treating patients with acute ankle injury involving an unstable syndesmosis injury and a posterior malleolar fragment.Figure 1.Sample of Syndesmosis Injury With Repair.Figure 2.Experimental Specimen Set-Up With the 6 D.O.F.Robotic Arm.

Quantifying alignment bias during the fabrication and fitting of ankle-foot orthoses: A single center study

BackgroundThe sagittal plane alignment of ankle-foot orthoses (AFO) and AFO footwear combinations (AFO-FC) has been shown to influence gait outcomes. As such, clinicians often target a particular alignment during the fabricating and fitting of an AFO to maximize outcomes. Research questionHow does the alignment of an AFO change during the fabrication and fitting process with respect to the intended, benchmark sagittal plane alignment identified by the consulting orthotist? Study designProspective MethodsThe assessment of AFO alignment was performed using a convenience sample of 125 custom molded AFOs from 68 individuals fabricated at our center (57 bilateral AFOs, 11 unilateral AFOs). The alignment of each AFO was measured at 5 distinct steps during the fabrication and fitting process using a recently validated method to measure AFO neutral angle using differential inclinometers. ResultsPrior to fabrication, the intended, benchmark alignment set by the consulting orthotist was 90 degrees for 92% of AFOs, was between 1 and 7 degrees of dorsiflexion for 7% of AFOs and was 5 degrees of plantarflexion for 1% of AFOs. Repeated measures ANOVA showed that AFO alignment changed between all fabrication and fitting steps. Overall, paired t-tests confirmed that AFO alignment was consistently 2–5 degrees more dorsiflexed than the benchmark alignment. Prior to fitting shoes, 55% of fabricated AFOs measured more than 2 degrees from the benchmark alignment. After fitting shoes, nearly 87% of AFO-FCs were more than 2 degrees from the benchmark alignment. SignificanceThe finding of systematic dorsiflexion bias and changes in AFO alignment throughout the fabrication and fitting process indicates the need to improve AFO fabrication precision. The neutral angle measurement methodology – using differential inclinometers – provides a means to improve this precision by enabling orthotists to precisely quantify and make appropriate adjustments to AFO alignment throughout the entire fabrication and fitting process.

A Preliminary Study to Assess the Relevance of Shear-Wave Elastography in Characterizing Biomechanical Changes in the Deltoid Ligament Complex in Relation to Ankle Position.

The purpose of this study was (1) to evaluate the biomechanical properties of the different bundles of the deltoid ligament in various ankle positions in a cohort of healthy adult volunteers; (2) describe the impact of demographic and hindfoot morphology characteristics on their stiffness; (3) to assess the reliability and reproducibility of these measurements. Deltoid ligament complex of both ankles were assessed by shear-wave elastography (SWE) in 20 healthy patients resting on hinge support. The propagation shear-wave speed (SWS) in ligaments was measured, which is related to the tissue's elastic modulus. The following ligaments were analyzed in a neutral position and then in varus, valgus, dorsal, and plantar flexions: tibionavicular ligament (TNL), tibiocalcaneal ligament (TCL), the superficial posterior tibiotalar ligament (SPTL), the anterior tibiotalar ligament (ATTL), and the deep posterior tibiotalar ligament (DPTTL). The mean SWS increased between neutral and 20 degrees valgus position for TCL (4.08 ± 0.78 m/s vs 5.56 ± 0.62 m/s, respectively; P < .0001) and for DPTTL (2.58 ± 0.52 m/s vs 3.59 ± 0.87 m/s, respectively; P < .0001). The mean SWS increased between neutral and 30 degrees plantarflexion for ATTL (2.11 ± 0.44 m/s vs 3.1 ± 0.5 m/s, respectively; P < .0001) and TNL (2.96 ± 0.66 m/s vs 4.99 ± 0.69 m/s, respectively; P < .0001). The mean SWS increased between neutral and 20 degrees dorsal flexion for SPTL (4.2 ± 1 m/s vs 5.45 ± 0.65 m/s, respectively; P < .0001).Women had less DPTTL SWS than men in the neutral position (2.37 ± 0.35 m/s vs 2.71 ± 0.49 m/s, respectively; P = .007). Other demographics had no impact on the SWS value of other ligaments. All inter- and intraobserver agreements were good to excellent. This study presents a reliable and reproducible SWE measurement protocol to describe the physiological function of all bundles of the medial collateral ligament in healthy adults. This examination technique can be available to orthopaedic surgeons, allowing reliable and reproducible monitoring of the SWS of the various ligaments constituting the medial collateral plane. The biomechanical values described in this study may give insight into in what position medial ankle ligament reconstruction should be tensioned.

Effects of the Ankle Flexion Angle During Anterior Talofibular Ligament Reconstruction on Ankle Kinematics, Laxity, and In Situ Forces of the Reconstructed Graft.

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of the ankle flexion angle during anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) reconstruction on ankle kinematics, laxity, and in situ force of a graft. Twelve cadaveric ankles were evaluated using a 6-degrees of freedom robotic system to apply passive plantar flexion and dorsiflexion motions and multidirectional loads. A repeated measures experiment was designed using the intact ATFL, transected ATFL, and reconstructed ATFL. During ATFL reconstruction (ATFLR), the graft was fixed at a neutral position (ATFLR 0 degrees), 15 degrees of plantar flexion (ATFLR PF15 degrees), and 30 degrees of plantar flexion (ATFLR PF30 degrees) with a constant initial tension of 10 N. The 3-dimensional path and reconstructed graft tension were simultaneously recorded, and the in situ force of the ATFL and reconstructed grafts were calculated using the principle of superposition. The in situ forces of the reconstructed grafts in ATFLR 0 degrees and ATFLR PF 15 degrees were significantly higher than those of intact ankles. The ankle kinematics and laxity produced by ATFLR PF 30 degrees were not significantly different from those of intact ankles. The in situ force on the ATFL was 19.0 N at 30 degrees of plantar flexion. In situ forces of 41.0, 33.7, and 21.9 N were observed at 30 degrees of plantar flexion in ATFLR 0, 15, and 30 degrees, respectively. ATFL reconstruction with the peroneus longus (PL) tendon was performed with the graft at 30 degrees of plantar flexion resulted in ankle kinematics, laxity, and in situ forces similar to those of intact ankles. ATFL reconstructions performed with the graft fixed at 0 and 15 degrees of the plantar flexion resulted in higher in situ forces on the reconstructed graft. Fixing the ATFL tendon graft at 30 degrees of plantar flexion results in an in situ force closest to that of an intact ankle and avoids the excessive tension on the reconstructed graft.

Single Biotenodesis Screw vs Biotenodesis Screw with Cortical Button Tension Slide Technique for Flexor Hallucis Longus Transfer: A Biomechanical Analysis

Category:Ankle; Hindfoot; Sports; OtherIntroduction/Purpose:Restoration of functional plantarflexion of the ankle joint following chronic Achilles injury is achieved through transfer of the flexor hallucis longus (FHL) tendon. Fixation of the FHL tendon transfer with a cortical button tension slide technique is an advancement that has not been measured against traditional methods. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the biomechanical differences between a single biotenodesis screw versus biotenodesis screw with cortical button tension slide technique for the fixation of FHL transfer. The authors hypothesize a biomechanical advantage for the tension slide technique compared to the biotenodesis screw alone for fixation of the flexor hallucis longus in chronic Achilles pathology.Methods:12 pairs (n=24) of fresh-frozen cadaveric tibia-to-toe samples (6 male, 6 female) were utilized to assess the biomechanics of FHL tendon transfer fixation. All specimens underwent bone density analysis. Each pair of cadaveric samples were randomized to receive either the biotenodesis screw or the tension slide technique. FHL tendon transfer was performed via standard technique using a 6.25x15mm biotenodesis screw with the foot in 20 degrees plantarflexion. A 2.6x12mm cortical button was inserted and FHL tendon was introduced with a tension-slide technique. Biomechanical loading was applied between 20N and 60N at a rate of 1Hz for 100 cycles. Post-cyclic load to failure occurred at 1.25mm/sec. Cyclic displacement, structural stiffness, and ultimate load were derived from resultant load-displacement curves. Student t-tests were used to evaluate significant effects between both FHL tendon transfer techniques. Linear regression analysis was performed to assess interactions between bone density and strength of FHL tendon transfer.Results:Average tendon diameter of the 24 FHL samples was 5.44+-0.46 mm. Average bone density for all 24 calcaneus samples was determined to be 1.06+-0.08 g/cm2. Loading data was normalized with respect to bone density and tendon diameter to account for inherent anatomical differences between cadaveric specimens. The addition of a cortical button for FHL transfer to the calcaneus did not significantly affect cyclic displacement (0.78+-0.52mm vs 0.87+-0.80mm) or structural stiffness (162.11+- 43.34N/mm vs. 167.57+-49.19N/mm). Addition of the cortical button to the FHL tendon transfer construct resulted in a 34% significant increase in ultimate load (343.72+-68.93 N) compared to biotenodesis screw alone (255.62+-77.17 N) (p=0.0002). Linear regression analyses did not reveal any significant interactions between bone density and FHL tendon transfer technique.Conclusion:Enhanced strength can be achieved for Achilles pathology repaired with FHL tendon transfer utilizing a biotenodesis screw and cortical button tension slide technique demonstrated by a statistically significant 34% increase in ultimate load, subsequent to cyclic loading. Cortical buttons in the setting of FHL tendon transfer to the calcaneus offers an additional level of support in the case of extreme tendon transfer failure.

Study of results of extra articular distal tibial fracture treated with locking plate by minimally invasive percutaneous plate osteosynthesis

Introduction: Distal tibial fractures present a challenge due to subcutaneous location of tibia and precarious blood supply of distal leg. MIPO (Minimal invasive plating osteosynthesis) has evolved as a newer concept to treat distal tibial fractures with minimal articular comminution and minimal soft tissue damage. Methodology: This study was carried out at Department of Orthopaedics, Tertiary care Hospital. 45 patients with distal tibia fractures were identified of which 42 patients were enrolled in the study based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. With 2 patients being lost to follow-up during the course of study before completing at least 6 months of follow-up, we had 40 patients remaining to study. Results: 37(92.5%) fractures were united between 10-14 weeks. Average time of union was 12 weeks. Majority of patients 20 (50%) had 50-70 degree of plantar flexion at final follow-up while 8 patients (20%) had

Operative Outcome of Side-Locking Loop Suture Technique Accompanied by Autologous Semitendinosus Tendon Grafting for Chronic Rupture of Achilles Tendon.

Background:The purpose of this retrospective study was to clarify the operative outcomes of the side-locking loop suture (SLLS) technique accompanied by autologous semitendinosus tendon grafting for chronic Achilles tendon rupture.Methods:A chart review was conducted of consecutive patients treated with the SLLS technique at our department from 2012 to 2017. Postoperatively, a below-knee splint was applied for 2 weeks in 20 degrees of plantar flexion and then active range of motion exercise was started. Partial weightbearing exercise was allowed at 4 weeks according to patient tolerance, and full weightbearing without crutches was allowed at 8 weeks. The American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot scale score and the Achilles tendon rupture score (ATRS) were used to evaluate clinical outcomes preoperatively and at the final follow-up.Results:Ten patients (6 men, 4 women) were included in the analysis. Mean AOFAS ankle-hindfoot scale score increased significantly from 64.2 ± 5.6 points preoperatively to 95.0 ± 5.3 points at the final follow-up (P < .001). The mean ATRS also increased significantly from 29.8 ± 4.4 points to 86.2 ± 7.7 points, respectively (P < .001). Mean time between surgery and ability to perform 20 continuous double-leg heel raises of the operated foot was 13.5 ± 3.4 (range 10-18) weeks. One patient complained of postoperative hypoesthesia in the foot, which had spontaneously resolved by 3 months after surgery.Conclusion:The SLLS technique accompanied by autologous semitendinosus tendon grafting provided successful operative outcomes for patients with chronic Achilles tendon rupture regardless of the size of the defect, and thus long-term orthotic use was not needed after surgery.Level of Evidence:Level IV, retrospective case series.

Minimally Invasive Dorsal Cheilectomy and Hallux Metatarsal Phalangeal Joint Arthroscopy for the Treatment of Hallux Rigidus.

Background:Hallux rigidus (HR) is a common source of forefoot pain and disability. For those who fail nonoperative treatment, minimally invasive dorsal cheilectomy (MIDC) is an increasingly popular alternative to the open approach with early positive results. Early failures may be due to lose bone debris from the MIDC as well as other intra-articular pathology that cannot be addressed with MIDC alone. Metatarsophalangeal (MTP) arthroscopy can be used in addition to MIDC to assess the joint after MIDC and address any intra-articular pathology while still maintaining the benefits of minimally invasive surgery. We report our clinical outcomes following MIDC combined with MTP arthroscopy.Methods:From November 2017 to July 2020, a retrospective analysis of all MIDC cheilectomies with MTP arthroscopy performed by the 2 senior authors was done. Wound complications, infections, revision rates, need for future surgery, conversion to fusion rates, pre- and postoperative range of motion, visual analog scale (VAS) scores, time to return to normal shoe, intraoperative arthroscopic findings, and operative time were collected. Follow-up average was 16.5 months (range 3-33 months).Results:A total of 20 patients were included with an average follow-up of 16.5 months. The average VAS score improved from 7.05 preoperatively to 0.75 postoperatively (P < .05). Average range of motion in dorsiflexion increased from 32 to 48 degrees (P < .05) and plantarflexion increased from 15 to 19 degrees plantarflexion (P < .05). All patients were weightbearing as tolerated immediately after surgery in a postoperative shoe and transitioned to a regular shoe at average of 2.1 weeks. We had no wound infections, wound complications, revision surgeries, tendon injuries or nerve damage. One patient required conversion to a fusion 3 years after the index procedure. Average tourniquet time was 30.39 minutes (range 17-60 minutes) and total average operating room time was 59.7 minutes (range 40-87 minutes). On arthroscopic evaluation of the MTP joint after MIDC, 100% of patients had bone debris, 100% had synovitis, 10% had loose bodies, and 30% had large cartilage flaps within the joint.Conclusion:MIDC and first MTP joint arthroscopy for treatment of hallux rigidus provide improved pain relief with minimal complications while still maintaining the benefits touted for minimally invasive operative procedures. Additionally, we have shown a high rate of intra-articular debris along with intra-articular pathology such as synovitis, loose chondral flaps, and loose bodies that exist after MIDC. This combined procedure has the potential for improving patient outcomes and may minimize risk of future revision surgeries compared with MIDC alone.Level of Evidence:Level IV, case series study.

Effect of Achilles Tendon Lengthening and Gastrocnemius Recession on Radiographic Tibiotalar Motion Following Total Ankle Replacement.

Surgeons frequently add an Achilles tendon lengthening or gastrocnemius recession to increase dorsiflexion following total ankle replacement. Previous studies have looked at the effects of these procedures on total tibiopedal motion. However, tibiopedal motion includes motion of the midfoot and hindfoot as well as the ankle replacement. The current study examined the effects of Achilles tendon lengthening and gastrocnemius recession on radiographic tibiotalar motion at the level of the prosthesis only. Fifty-four patients with an average of 25 months follow-up after total ankle replacement were divided into 3 groups: (1) patients who underwent Achilles tendon lengthening, (2) patients who had a gastrocnemius recession, (3) patients with no lengthening procedure. Tibiotalar range of motion was measured on lateral dorsiflexion-plantarflexion radiographs using reference lines on the surface of the implants. Both Achilles tendon lengthening and gastrocnemius recession significantly increased tibiotalar dorsiflexion when compared to the group without lengthening. However, the total tibiotalar range of motion among the 3 groups was the same. Interestingly, the Achilles tendon lengthening group lost 11.7 degrees of plantarflexion compared to the group without lengthening, which was significant. Both Achilles tendon lengthening and gastrocnemius recession increased radiographic tibiotalar dorsiflexion following arthroplasty. Achilles tendon lengthening had the unexpected effect of significantly decreasing plantarflexion. Gastrocnemius recession may be a better choice when faced with a tight ankle replacement because it increases dorsiflexion without a compensatory loss of plantarflexion. Level III, retrospective comparative study.

Comparative Study of Flexor Hallicus Longus Tendon Length through Single Incision or Accessory Plantar Medial Incision: A Cadaver Study

Category:Ankle; HindfootIntroduction/Purpose:Flexor Hallucis Longus (FHL) tendon transfer to the calcaneus is a common adjuvant procedure in the treatment of Achilles pathology. The FHL tendon can be harvested using a posterior incision where the tendon is dissected along its course into the fibroosseous tunnel. Alternatively, the FHL may be harvested through a separate plantar medial incision as it crosses the flexor digitorium longus at the Knot of Henry. This study aims to quantify FHL tendon lengths achieved through the two common approaches utilizing pair matched cadavers.Methods:Seven pair matched fresh-frozen cadaver legs without signs of musculoskeletal abnormalities were used for this assessment. One leg in each pairing underwent a single incision harvest while the contralateral leg underwent an accessory medial plantar harvest. After dissecting the tendon, a calcaneus tunnel was prepared from dorsal to plantar in both calcanei in standard fashion. Two measurements were obtained. The first measurement was taken from the distal aspect of the muscle belly to the distal end of the tendon. The tendon was then pulled through the calcaneus, and the foot was held in tension at 20 degrees of plantar flexion. The second measurement was taken from site where tendon entered the calcaneous to the distal end of the tendon graft. The measurements were analyzed using Wilcoxon Signed Ranks Test and Fischer Exact Test.Results:Using a posterior incision, the mean tendon measurement from calcaneous tunnel to the distal end of the tendon was 4.0 cm. Using an accessory plantar medial incision, the mean tendon measurement from the calcaneous tunnel to the distal end of the tendon was 7.2 cm. The average tunnel length obtained using an accessory medial incision was significantly greater than the length obtained using the single incision approach (p= 0.0003, p=0.0022, and p=0.0016). The accessory plantar medial incision obtained an FHL tendon tunnel length that was an average of 2.9 cm greater than the posterior incision.Conclusion:The single incision approach provided sufficient length to safely anchor the FHL into the calcaneus which suggests that the accessory plantar medial approach is not necessary for routine FHL transfers to the calcaneus with interference screw fixation. However, if additional length is needed for other applications such as posterior tibialis tendon dysfunction or peritoneal tendon tears, the accessory incision does provide an average of 2.9 cm of additional length.

Extensor Tendon Transfers for Treatment of Foot Drop in Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease: A Biomechanical Evaluation

Category:Midfoot/Forefoot; Ankle; Lesser Toes; OtherIntroduction/Purpose:Transfer of the Extensor hallucis longus (EHL) and extensor digitorum longus (EDL) tendons is an underutilized procedure for the treatment of drop foot in patients with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT). Transfer of these tendons should be considered for augmentation of ankle dorsiflexion in the CMT population, regardless of the presence of clawed toes. The preferred site for tendon transfer, however, remains unknown. We hypothesized that EHL/EDL transfers will improve ankle dorsiflexion compared to the intact state but will produce similar motion at either the metatarsal necks or cuneiforms.Methods:Eight fresh-frozen cadaveric specimens transected at the mid-tibia were mounted into a specialized jig with the ankle held in 20 degrees of plantarflexion. The EHL and EDL tendons were isolated and connected to linear actuators with suture. Diodes secured on the 1st metatarsal, 5th metatarsal and tibia provided optical data for tibiopedal position in 3-dimensions. After preloading, the tendons were tested at 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% of maximal physiologic force for the EHL and EDL muscles, individually and combined.Results:Transfers to metatarsal and cuneiform locations significantly improved ankle dorsiflexion compared to the intact state. No difference was observed between these transfer sites. Following transfer, only 25% of maximal force by combined EHL and EDL was required to achieve a neutral foot position.Conclusion:Transfer of the long toe extensors, into either the metatarsals or cuneiforms, significantly increases dorsiflexion of the ankle. Transfer should be considered for augmentation of dorsiflexion in the CMT population, regardless of the presence of clawed toes. This study supports tendon transfers into the cuneiforms, which involves less time, fewer steps and easier tendon balancing without compromising dorsiflexion power.