Extensor Hallucis Longus Tendon Research Articles

The effect of hallux valgus on the anatomy of the nerves around the first metatarsal bone.

To identify the variations in the location of the nerves that may be at risk in hallux valgus (HV) surgery, and to reveal whether these nerves are affected by the anatomical changes associated with HV. In the formalin fixed, 46 lower extremities (19 female, 27 male) (9 normal, 14 mild HV, 21 moderate/severe HV), extensor hallucis longus tendon (EHL), deep plantar artery, medial dorsal cutaneous (MDCN), deep fibular (DFN), common plantar digital (CPDN) and proper plantar digital (PPDN) nerves were examined. The branches of MDCN extending to the medial side of foot were recorded in three segments. The positional topography of nerves according to EHL were analyzed on 360° circle and clock models. Sex-related differences observed in some parameters in direct measurements were not found in the clock model comparisons. In advanced HV angles (> 20°), DFN was closer to EHL in the distal part of the metatarsal bone, while there was no difference in the proximal. The intersection of the medial branch of the MDCN with the EHL was more proximal in HV cases than in normal feet. The location of the nerves in the clock pattern did not change in HV. Of the nerve branches reaching the medial side of the foot, 65.2% were in Part I, 71.7% in Part II, and 4.3% in Part III. Sex differences in the distance of the nerves to the EHL disappeared when the size effect of the cross-section of the first metatarsal bone region was eliminated with the clock model. Only in advanced HVA (>20°) (not in mild HV), the DFN being closer to the EHL distally and the intersection of the medial branch of the MDCN with the EHL in HV being more proximal than in normal can be interpreted as specific reflections of HV progress. The variations we revealed in the number of branches reaching the inside of the foot may explain the diversity of neuromas or nerve injuries associated with HV surgery.

Validation of anterior ankle soft tissue dynamics and shear modulus for anterior ankle impingement syndrome after ankle fracture surgery

Anterior ankle impingement syndrome (AAIS) has been reported to account for a high percentage of complications following ankle fracture surgery. The soft tissue etiology of AAIS is thought to be thickening and inflammation of the anterior ankle soft tissues intervening anteriorly at the tibiotalar joint, causing pain and functional limitation during dorsiflexion. However, the effects of anterior ankle soft tissue dynamics and stiffness on AAIS have yet to be clarified. This study aimed to determine the relationship between AAIS and the anterior ankle soft tissue thickness change ratio and shear modulus using ultrasonography (US). The participants were 20 patients with ankle joint fractures (AO classification A, B) who had undergone open reduction and internal fixation and 20 healthy adults. The evaluation periods were 3 months and 6 months postoperatively. US was used to delineate the tibialis anterior tendon, extensor hallucis longus tendon, and the extensor digitorum longus tendon over the talus and tibia on a long-axis image. Anterior ankle soft tissue thickness was measured as the shortest distance from the most convex part of the talus to the tendon directly above it. The Anterior ankle soft tissue thickness change ratio was determined by dividing the value at 0° dorsiflexion by the value at 10° plantarflexion. The same images as for the anterior soft tissue thickness measurement were drawn for the shear modulus measurement, and the average shear modulus (kPa) was calculated using shear-wave elastography. There was no significant difference in the thickness change ratio between the postoperative and healthy groups. Compared with the healthy group, the shear modulus was significantly higher at 3 and 6 months in the postoperative group (p < 0.01). The shear elastic modulus at 6-month postoperative group was significantly lower than at 3-month postoperative group (p < 0.01). Anterior ankle joint soft tissue stiffness may increase after surgery for an ankle fracture.

Anatomical Structures at Risk in Percutaneous Preparation Talonavicular Fusion.

The stability of the hindfoot greatly relies on the integrity of the talonavicular joint. Pathologies affecting this joint often necessitate fusion. Our study explores the risks posed to neurovascular and tendon structures during simulated percutaneous talonavicular joint preparation for fusion. In 9 fresh cadaver specimens, the talonavicular joint was accessed through two portals. A 2-mm Shannon burr was employed for joint surface preparation with distraction provided by a pin-based distractor. Dissections were performed to assess potential damage to critical structures, including the dorsalis pedis artery, superficial and deep peroneal nerves, extensor hallucis longus (EHL), and tibialis anterior (TA) tendons. The dorsal portal site was found to be significantly closer to important structures compared to the medial portal site. The Shannon burr made contact with various structures, with a single transection identified for both deep and superficial peroneal nerve branches. During the dorsal portal site approach, potential injury to the EHL tendon was identified as concern. This study sheds light on the potential risks associated with percutaneous dorsal and medial joint preparation approaches using a Shannon burr.Level of Evidence:Level V, mechanism-based reasoning..

Integrity of the First Metatarsal Head Vascularization and Soft-Tissue Envelope Following Minimally Invasive Chevron Osteotomy for Hallux Valgus (HV) Deformity: A Micro-CT and Anatomical Assessment

Category: Bunion; Midfoot/Forefoot Introduction/Purpose: Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) Chevron-osteotomy for HV treatment offers a surgical alternative to open surgery with minimal surgical dissection and a hypothetical decreased risk for soft-tissue complications. During this procedure, there is a concern regarding the injury to the blood supply of the 1st-metatarsal-head. The objective of this study was to assess the incidence of injuries: (1) to the soft-tissue envelope around the first metatarsal head complex and, (2) to the blood supply of the first metatarsal head and also by using Micro-CT, (3) looking for safe zones close to the first metatarsal head to perform MIS Chevron osteotomy. We hypothesized that the MIS Chevron-type osteotomy procedure would preserve the soft-tissue envelope of the first-metatarsal-head complex and the blood supply of the 1st-metatarsal-head. Methods: Sixteen HV deformity cadaveric specimens were used to perform MIS Chevron-type osteotomy of the first metatarsal head. Anatomical dissection of all specimens was then performed to assess macroscopic injury to the first metatarsal head complex soft-tissue structures, including Extensor Hallucis Longus (EHL) tendon, Extensor Hallucis Brevis (EHB) tendon, Flexor Hallucis Longus (FHL) tendon, Flexor Hallucis Brevis (FHB) tendon, Abductor Hallucis tendon, Adductor Hallucis tendon, Sesamoid complex, Dorsolateral and Dorsomedial digital branches of the first toe and the Dorsomedial digital branch to the second. Macroscopic injuries were classified using a calibrated digital caliper. Any chondral damage to the first metatarsal head was quantified in mm². To assess the amount of first metatarsal head blood supply, specimens were perfused with 200 ml of a low viscosity radiopaque polymer, MV 117 (Flowtech), preoperatively, followed by Micro-CT assessment. Descriptive statistics and percentages were utilized for categorical data. Results: We did not find injuries in the EHL, EHB, FHL, Abductor-Hallucis, and Adductor-Hallucis tendons. We found a 2mm injury in the FHB tendon in one specimen. No injuries were found in the Dorsomedial and Dorsolateral nerves of the first-toe, the Dorsomedial-nerve of the second-toe, and Medial branch of the dorsomedial-nerve of the first-toe. In 3 cases, we found an injury on first-metatarsal-head (1mm) due to the passage of the K-wire and, in 1 case, due to the inadvertent passage of the drill (4.41mm). Macroscopically and using Micro-CT, we did not observe injuries in the First-Dorsal-Metatarsal-Artery (FDMA), Lateral-Dorsal-Branch of FDMA, and Plantar-Metatarsal-Artery. Micro-CT helped estimate a safe distance to finish the proximal exit of Chevron-osteotomy (25mm from the most distal point of the first metatarsal head). Conclusion: In this study, the minimally invasive Chevron osteotomy for treating HV seems to be a technically safe procedure, presenting a low rate of iatrogenic injuries with a low degree of severity. In addition, using Micro-CT promoted a better visualization of the microvasculature that nourishes the first metatarsal head. We observed that a proximal distance of 25 mm from the most distal part of the first metatarsal head could be a safe place to finalize the Chevron osteotomy, minimizing the risk of injury to the blood supply of the first metatarsal head.

Soft Tissue Structures at Risk With a Percutaneous Focal Dome Osteotomy: A Cadaver Study

The focal dome osteotomy allows deformity correction through frontal plane rotation, and if needed, anterior or posterior translation. This percutaneous technique allows extracapsular ankle realignment with minimal soft tissue dissection. While circumventing a standard anterior incision, this technique encounters soft tissue structures that must be considered. Focal dome osteotomies were simulated on 10 fresh-frozen below the knee cadavers. Centered proximal to the tibial plafond at the physeal scar, a radial arm using a 4-hole Rancho cube was used to map the dome. Medial, lateral, and central incisions were made to allow access for drilling and measured to nearby anatomic structures. Among 10 cadavers, the age and weight were 70 ± 7.96 years and 134.7 ± 30.8 pounds, respectively. In all cadavers, the hole below the most proximal posthole provided the ideal position for the creation of the osteotomy. The medial and central incisions were closest to the tibialis anterior tendon measuring 3.37 ± 2.48 mm and 0.43 ± 0.9 mm, respectively. The lateral incision and half-pin used to create the distal axis of rotation were closest to the extensor hallucis longus tendon, measuring 1.97 ± 1.92 mm and 1.27 ± 1.5 mm, respectively. Drilling the second hole from the top on a 4-hole Rancho cube, forming a 2.50 cm radial arm, created the ideal osteotomy arc. Though neurovascular structures were further away from respective incision and half-pin sites compared to tendons, in several specimens, anatomic variations held them closer, warranting preoperative handheld Doppler and mapping. Care should be taken to protect anterior ankle anatomy during dissection, drilling, and completing the osteotomy.

Use of a palmaris longus graft for the treatment of a chronic rupture of the extensor hallucis longus

Injuries of the extensor hallucis longus (EHL) tendon is relatively rare, but surgical repair is necessary to avoid deformity and gait disorders. Primary suturing is always the best option when possible; in the case of chronic lesions, retraction makes this solution impossible, necessitating tendon transfer or grafting. We report here the case of a patient with a lacerated suture after primary repair following early mobilization. The patient complained of gait disturbance in the meantime, which led to consultation. After resumption of the old approach and debridement, a 2cm gap persisted between the two tendon ends. a graft was harvested from the palmaris longus. This time, immobilization was performed using an arthrodesis pin. after removal of the pin and rehabilitation, there was a clear improvement. The use of the palmaris longus brings the advantage of an adapted diameter which minimizes the phenomena of snagging due to fibrotic projections, and unlike other grafts, avoids affecting another healthy joint.

Lower Extremity Injuries Due to Chainsaw During Four-Year Periods.

Background Chainsaws cause injuries mostly on the upper extremities, then on the face and lower extremities. In the literature, there are many studies about hand and face injuries; however, articles about lower extremity injuries are limited. The aim of the study is to define injury patterns, treatments, and results of the cases that we have encountered in our hospital and to evaluate precautions after reviewing the literature. Methods Patients admitted to our hospital's Emergency Department with chainsaw-related lower extremity injuries between 2016 and 2021 are evaluated. Patients' demographic data, pathologies, treatments, length of stay in hospital, return to work time, and functional scores are calculated retrospectively. Results There were 39 male and two female patients, with a minimum follow-up of 12 months. Their mean age was 42.6 ± SD (16-62). Thirty-two patients (78.04%) had injuries on the left lower extremity, and nine patients (21.9%) had injuries on the right lower extremity. 93.75% (30/32) of the patients with left lower extremity injuries had the right hand as the dominant extremity. The most frequently observed injury pattern was extensor hallucis longus (EHL) tendon disruption, with a percentage of 58.5% (24/41). 29.2% (13/41) of the cases had bone pathologies present as well. Patients' average AOFAS score was 97.4 ± 4.4 (74-100) at the end of one year. The average hospitalization length of stay was 2.95 ± 2.7 (0-15) days, and the time interval of return to work was 6.17 ± 1.4 (2-15) weeks, excluding one patient who had to change his workplace. Conclusion Saw-related injuries of the lower extremities are the injuries that can be seen mostly in male patients. Among the right dominant-handed patients, left foot dorsum injuries were the most common EHL tendon disruptions observed. We have seen that the reason for this is foot injuries remaining in the projection of the saw due to incorrect positioning of the foot. Protective gear and shoes must be used as precautions. More preventive measures could be taken while using chainsaws and similar tools, as they may cause serious injuries. Requirements for the use and sale of this tool should be introduced, and training should be given as it can be easily purchased by the public.

Single-Stage Extensor Digitorium Tendon Reconstruction, Including Overlying Soft Tissue Defects of the Foot Dorsum with a Composite-Free Anterolateral Thigh Flap

Abstract Background Loss of the extensor tendon with overlying soft tissue remains a complex reconstructive challenge. Successful reconstruction combines tendon repair with defect coverage by soft tissue flaps, meets the goals of approaching functionality, and achieves an esthetic result. Patients and Methods From June 2016 to June 2022, our center submitted six patients to a one-stage procedure correcting the extensor tendon and skin defect using a composite-free anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap with fascia lata (FL). Results The ALT skin paddle was from 10 × 8 cm to 26 × 13 cm, and all flaps included vascularized FL with an average of 12 × 9.5 cm, which was split and folded to reconstruct as a tendon. The extensor digitorium brevis tendon defects were reconstructed by fascia sheets in all patients. One patient had additional reconstruction of the extensor hallucis longus tendon. All the flaps survived completely, and no complication was reported. All patients received rehabilitation therapy starting in the third week postoperatively. The mean follow-up was 33.67 months (range, 10–60). The mean arc of ankle rotation between dorsiflexion and plantar flexion was 49.20 degrees (range, 40–55 degrees). After reconstruction, our patients showed good functional results, and these patients could walk, climb stairs, tiptoe again without support, and regular footwear could be worn. Conclusion A composite-free ALT flap with vascularized FL is a reasonable option for coverage of the extensor tendon and overlying soft tissue defects. It helps reduce the surgical risk and hospitalization time and provokes faster recovery and rehabilitation. Level of Clinical Evidence Case studies, Level 4.

Reconstruction of the extensor hallucis longus with a hamstring tendon autograft: a systematic review

Objective: The purpose of this study was to systematically review the literature regarding the use of hamstring tendon (HT) autograft for extensor hallucis longus (EHL) reconstruction. Methods: A systematic search for studies addressing the use of HT autograft for reconstruction of nonrepairable EHL tendon injuries was performed in December 2021. The databases searched include Embase, Medline, Europe PMC, Cochrane, and Scopus. Predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria were implemented, and appropriate studies were selected for review. Results: The database search resulted in one study that met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Three additional studies met inclusion and exclusion criteria after screening the references of the selected study. A total of four studies were included in the final review. Clinical presentation, surgical technique, postoperative rehabilitation, clinical follow-up, and outcomes were recorded. All four studies reported single cases of EHL tendon reconstruction using a semitendinosus autograft with satisfactory clinical results and no complications. Patients may experience a five degrees decrease in range of motion or minimal decrease in hallux extension strength; however, all patients were asymptomatic and reported no limitations. Conclusion: Four case reports regarding EHL tendon reconstruction were reviewed and demonstrated using a semitendinosus autograft as a viable option with favorable outcomes and no complications. Level of Evidence IV; Systematic Review

Results of a shuttle catheter technique for surgical repair of acute extensor hallucis longus tears

The proximal end of a torn Extensor hallucis longus (EHL) is usually so retracted that a proximal wound extension is always required to retrieve it; leading to more adhesions and stiffness. This study aims at assessment of a novel technique for proximal stump retrieval and repair of acute EHL injuries with no need for wound extension. Thirteen patients with acute EHL tendon injuries at zones III, IV were prospectively included in our series. Patients with underlining bony injuries, chronic tendon injuries and previous nearby skin lesions were excluded. Dual Incision Shuttle Catheter (DISC) technique was applied with subsequent evaluation by the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hallux scale, Lipscomb and Kelly score, range of motion and muscle power. Dorsiflexion at the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint significantly improved from a mean of 38.4±6.2º at one month to 58±9.6º at three months to 78.8±3.1º at one year postoperatively (P=0.0004). Plantar flexion at MTP joint significantly inclined from 16±3.8º at 3 months to 30.6±7.8º at the last follow-up (P=0.006). The big toe dorsiflexion power surged from 6.1±0.9N to 11.1±2.5N to 19.7±3.4N at 1 month, 3 months and one-year follow-up periods respectively (P=0.013). As per the AOFAS hallux scale, pain score was 40 of 40 points. The mean functional capability score was 43.7 out of 45 points. On Lipscomb and Kelly scale, all were graded "good" except for one patient who was graded "fair". Dual Incision Shuttle Catheter (DISC) technique represents a reliable method for repair of acute EHL injury at zones III, IV.

Primary tendon repair in a case of acute traumatic tibialis anterior with extensor hallucis longus tendon rupture in a young male-a case report

&lt;p&gt;Tibialis anterior tendon rupture is a rare entity which can be either traumatic and non-traumatic. It often presents late due to mild clinical symptoms and signs. Acute ruptures are traumatic occurring in young individuals while chronic ruptures are due to degenerative processes occurring in elderly individuals, commonly after 45 years of age. Tibia anterior along with extensor hallucis tendon is an even rarer entity, operative management of which becomes mandatory, more so in a young active individual for better outcome. We have a 31-year-old male patient, who presented to us with an acute post traumatic tibialis anterior tendon rupture of 3 days duration which was diagnosed following an initial clinical examination, an unremarkable X-ray picture, and Ultrasonography confirming the diagnosis. The patient was managed with primary repair of the tibialis anterior tendon along with Extensor hallucis tendon (which was found intra-operatively) with 2-0 ethibond sutures using a cross-linked Bunnell technique. The patient regained full ankle range of motion at 8 weeks post operative period with ankle dorsiflexion and great toe extension back to pre-injury state.As we have seen with this case, early primary repair in a case of acute rupture at tibialis anterior and extensor hallucis longus rupture with non-absorbable suture has significant improved post operative outcome in terms of return of the affected range of motion and can be practice safely in new hands with limited resources as material of suture and technique has not significant effect in post operative outcome. Acute tibialis anterior and extensor hallucis tendon rupture, non absorbable suture, ethibond, cross linked Bunnell technique.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt; &lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

Anatomical Characteristics of Extensor Hallucis Longus Tendon Variations and Its Clinical Implications: A Korean Cadaveric Study.

The purpose of this study is to ascertain the morphological characteristics of the extensor hallucis longus (EHL) tendon variation using larger-scale dissection of Korean cadavers and to classify the types of variation along with incidence. A total of 158 feet from adult formalin-fixed cadavers (50 males, 29 females) were dissected. The morphological characteristics and measurements of the EHL tendon variants were evaluated. Three types of the EHL tendon variation were classified, wherein the most common type was Type 2 (106 feet, 67.1%), Type 3 (3 feet, 1.9%) was the rarest type, and Type 1 without accessory tendon was found in 49 feet (31.0%). Type 2K (11 feet, 7%) and Type 3K (1 foot, 0.6%) were described as new subtypes. The present study suggests morphological characteristics of the EHL tendon variation in Korean populations and high morphological variability of the EHL tendon along with the possibility of differences according to race or ethnicity and gender. Furthermore, a newly updated classification complemented by new subtypes of variation will help foot and ankle surgeons in diagnosis and surgical planning with hallux problems.

A Rare Case of Giant Cell Tumor of the Extensor Hallucis Longus Tendon

Giant cell tumor is a benign tumour of the extremities that is more prevalent in the upper limbs and less common in the foot and ankle region. We present a case of a patient with a lobulated lesion on the dorsum of the foot that turned out to be a giant cell tumor of the extensor hallucis longus tendon sheath. The likelihood of treatment success is increased by doing a differential diagnosis of a "synovial cyst" in the foot and ankle, completing sufficient surgical planning, and using imaging tests such as nuclear magnetic resonance. Giant cell tumor of tendon sheath involving the foot and ankle region is a rare clinical entity, and good results can be expected after surgical excision

Deep Peroneal Nerve: Orientation and Branching at the Ankle and Proximal Part of the Foot

Objective: This study investigated the frequency and types of 1) orientation of the deep peroneal nerve (DPN) and its branches relative to the dorsalis pedis artery (DPA) and the extensor hallucis longus tendon (EHLT) and 2) branching site and pattern of DPN at the distal area of leg and the proximal zone of the foot.Materials and Methods: One-hundred and sixty specimens from the lower extremities of 80 formalin-embalmed cadavers were investigated for anatomical position, orientation and the branching pattern of DPN by manual dissection, starting from the anterior side of lower extremity just proximal to ankle joint down to the area distal to inferior extensor retinaculum.Results: The most prevalent medial-to-lateral orientation of structures in the area anterior to ankle joints was the EHLT/DPA/DPN. Comparing DPA with the branching of DPN in the areas inside anterior tarsal tunnel (ATT) and distal to ATT, the most common type was an orientation of DPA that was lateral to both the DPN main trunk and its medial terminal branch. Regarding branching sites and patterns of DPN in the intermalleolar and ATT areas, nearly half of the studied specimens had DPN bifurcation at the intermalleolar level and more than half of the bifurcations were inside the ATT.Conclusion: This study establishes novel data regarding type variation and prevalence of DPN in areas of ankle and proximal part of foot in the Thai population which could be helpful in clinical practice.

Supernumerary Branches of the Dorsomedial Cutaneous Nerve of the Hallux Crossing the Extensor Hallucis Longus Tendon

The dorsomedial cutaneous nerve of the hallux (DMCN) provides sensation to the skin of the dorsomedial hallux (big toe) and the first metatarsophalangeal joint. This cutaneous nerve, a terminal branch of the superficial fibular (peroneal) nerve, is located in the dorsum of the foot and crosses the extensor hallucis longus (EHL) tendon during its course. At this intersection point, the DMCN is at risk for injury during operations of the hallux and metatarsophalangeal joint including EHL tendon transfer, hallux valgus or hallux rigidus corrections, bunionectomy, cheilectomy, or injection procedures. Iatrogenic injuries often result in sensory loss, debilitating causalgia, or neuroma formation. The aim of this study was to identify anatomical variations at the intersection of the DMCN and the EHL tendon. Twenty‐three feet (12 left‐sided, 11 right‐sided) from 12 cadavers were dissected to follow the course of the DMCN and look at its intersection with the EHL tendon. Dissection resulted in damage to three DMCNs; however, 20 feet (11 left‐sided and 9 right‐sided feet) dissections resulted in excellent visualization of both the DMCN and the EHL tendon. Supernumerary branches of the DMCN were identified crossing the EHL tendon in multiple locations in fourteen of twenty feet (70.0%), including nine left feet (9/11, 81.8%) and five right feet (5:9, 55.6%). Of the fourteen feet with supernumerary branches, seven feet (50.0%) had two branches, four feet (28.6%) had three branches, and three feet (21.4%) had four‐to‐six branches of the DMCN crossing over the EHL tendon in multiple locations. The results of this study identify the complex branching patterns of the DMCN. Surgeons should be aware of that supernumerary branches of the DMCN exist, crossing the EHL tendon in multiple locations, and use ultrasonography to lower the risk of iatrogenic injury to the DMCN during surgical procedures.

Preventing Iatrogenic Injury to the Dorsomedial Cutaneous Nerve of the Hallux

The dorsomedial cutaneous nerve of the hallux (DMCN) is a sensory nerve that crosses the extensor hallucis longus (EHL) tendon to innervate the great toe and the first metatarsophalangeal joint. The DMCN is vulnerable to injury during operative procedures including hallux valgus or hallux rigidus correction, bunionectomy, and cheilectomy, as well as EHL tendon transfer surgeries. Intraoperative injury to the DMCN may cause pain that is intractable without subsequent surgical intervention. Accordingly, understanding anatomical variation of the DMCN is of the utmost importance. Therefore, this study assessed 23 cadaveric legs and feet to identify morphological variations of the DMCN. Observed variations included supernumerary branches crossing the EHL tendon and atypical superficial fibular nerve branching that affected the anatomical relationship between the DMCN and the EHL tendon. This study provides details of atypical variations of the DMCN and the resulting data, when used in conjunction with current imaging techniques (ultrasonography), may help to prevent unwarranted iatrogenic nerve injury.

Effectiveness of groin flap with external oblique aponeurosis for tendon and skin defects of dorsal foot

To investigate the effectiveness of groin flap with external oblique aponeurosis in repair of tendon and skin defects of dorsal foot. Between October 2016 and January 2020, 12 patients with compound tissue defects of the dorsal foot caused by trauma were treated. There were 9 males and 3 females, with a median age of 42 years (range, 32-65 years). The size of the skin defects ranged from 8 cm×5 cm to 12 cm×8 cm. All wounds were accompanied by extensor tendon injury, including 6 cases of extensor hallucis longus tendon defect, 5 cases of extensor digitalis longus tendon defect, and 3 cases of extensor digitalis longus tendon and extensor digitorum brevis defects. The interval between injury and admission was 1-6 hours (mean, 3 hours). After admission, the wounds were thoroughly debrided, and the groin flap with external oblique aponeurosis was used to repair the skin and tendon defects in the second stage. The size of skin flap ranged from 10 cm×6 cm to 13 cm×9 cm, and the size of the external oblique aponeurosis ranged from 5.5 cm×3.0 cm to 8.0 cm×5.0 cm. The wounds at donor sties were sutured directly. All flaps survived completely without significant complications. All incisions of the recipient and donor sites healed by first intention. All patients were followed up 16-24 months (mean, 18 months). The flaps were satisfactory in appearance and soft in texture. At last follow-up, 9 cases were excellent and 3 cases were good according to the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) metatarsophalangeal-interphalangeal joint scale criteria. The toe function was satisfactory. The line scar was left without hernia or other morbidity on the donor site. The groin flap with the external oblique aponeurosis can repair the tendon and skin defects of the dorsal foot, with concealed donor site, easy dissection and adjustable thinness, as well as the enough tough aponeurosis.

Case series of traumatic neglected Extensor Hallucis Longus lacerations: choice of surgical treatment based on injury type.

Extensor Hallucis Longus (EHL) tendon rupture is a rare injury of the foot, representing only 1% of overall tendon rupture. Early diagnosis and surgical repair are recommended but there is still no consensus regarding the ideal treatment. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a case series of patients with neglected extensor hallucis longus (EHL) tendon rupture. We report a case series of 3 patients affected by traumatic neglected EHL lacerations treated with reconstructive surgery using tissue scaffolds, between November 2019 and May 2020. Demographics data, mechanism of injury, zone of injury, tendon gap, time to surgery, type of surgical repair, preoperative and postoperative functional score were collected with a minimum follow-up of 8 months. The zone of injury (according to Al-Qattan classification) involved was in 1 case zone 2, in 1 case zone 4 and in the last case zone 5. The mean value of intraoperative tendon gap was of 3,4 cm. The elapsed time from injury to surgery was an average of 3,3 months. One tendon transfer surgery and two primary repairs with Krakow fashion were performed, all augmented with tissue scaffolds. The mean preoperative and postoperative American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scores were, respectively, 43 and 97. Our results highlight good functional result and satisfaction with active extension of the hallux restored in all patients. According to our experience, we recommend choosing reconstruction technique basing on the topographic zone of lesion and intraoperative tendon gap.

Reconstruction of chronic extensor hallucis longus tendon rupture using plantaris tendon graft

Chronic tendon ruptures can be difficult to manage as end-to-end repair can be challenging. In this scenario, reconstruction techniques with tendon grafts may be useful. The ideal tendon graft would be one that has similar biomechanical properties, low donor-site morbidity and length compatible with the tendon gap. We describe a safe technique for the reconstruction of a chronic extensor hallucis longus tendon rupture using a plantaris tendon graft. Level of Evidence V, Therapeutic Studies; Expert Opinion.

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.