Foot And Ankle Ability Measure Scores Research Articles

CARTIVA SYNTHETIC CARTILAGE IMPLANT HEMIARTHROPLASTY FOR TREATMENT OF HALLUX RIGIDUS

ObjectivesCartiva synthetic cartilage implant (SCI) is licenced for use in management of symptomatic hallux rigidus in several countries including the UK. As for now, there are no independent comparative series for treatment of hallux rigidus utilising polyvinyl alcohol implants.Study design and methodsPatients at a single centre with symptomatic hallux rigidus who underwent Cartiva SCI implant procedure were identified. First metatarsophalangeal joint arthritis was radiographically graded according to the Hattrup and Johnson (HJ) classification. Pre-operative and post-operative patient-reported outcomes were evaluated using the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) activities of daily living subscale and the Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire (MOXFQ).Results66 patients (19M, 47F) (43R and 23L) were followed up for an average of 14 months (min=2, max=36). 17 patients suffered from HJ2/moderate arthritis and 49 patients with grade HJ3/severe arthritis. Post-operative mean FAAM scores showed statistically significant improvement (p< 0.0001). Patients reported a 40% increase in functionality during activities of daily living. All 3 MOXFQ Domain scores improved significantly (p< 0.02). The Index score improved by 28 points (p< 0.0001). There was no correlation between length of follow up or age and PROMs (r=0.129). No statistical difference was demonstrated between sexes. However clinically, males and older patients exhibit better outcomes. There was a 89.4% patient satisfaction with the use of Cartiva.ConclusionsOur study shows excellent results with statistically significant improvements in functional outcomes, and promising short-term follow-up with low early revision rates. Pain in particular was significantly reduced. One third of patients developed post-operative stiffness requiring a manipulation under anaesthesia. Patient selection is key. Additional imaging may be required to assess sesamoid osteoarthritis. At 3 years the implant has demonstrated to be safe and efficacious in the management of hallux rigidus. Durability and survivability of the implant will continue to be studied in this cohort.

Study on the effect of blood flow restriction training combined with IASTAM on ankle strength and function intervention in athletes with chronic ankle instability in sport dance events

BackgroundAthletes engaged in sports dance frequently encounter the potential for ankle injuries and instability, factors that may contribute to diminished training efficacy, compromised athletic performance, prolonged recuperation, and heightened susceptibility to recurring injuries.ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to investigate the impact of an exercise intervention (comprising blood flow restriction training combined with low-load ankle muscle strength training and balance training) as well as instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) on the foot and ankle function, strength, and range of motion in sports dance athletes exhibiting ankle instability (CAI).MethodsThirty participants exhibiting ankle instability, restriction, or discomfort were recruited and randomly assigned to two groups: the Test group (comprising blood flow restriction training combined with IASTM, n = 15) and the traditional ankle strength training group (n = 15). The intervention spanned 4 weeks, with one session per week. Assessment of the Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool (CAIT), Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM), and ankle range of motion occurred at three time points: pre-intervention, immediately following the initial intervention, and after 4 weeks of intervention. Ankle strength testing was conducted solely before and after the intervention for comparative analysis.ResultsThere were no significant variances in baseline characteristics between the two intervention groups. In terms of CAIT scores, both groups exhibited notably higher scores following the initial intervention and after 4 weeks of intervention compared to pre-intervention (P < 0.05). The Test group displayed higher CAIT scores than the control group, signifying a more pronounced enhancement in ankle stability among patients in the Test group. Concerning FAAM scores, both groups significantly enhanced ankle function in CAI patients (P < 0.05), with the Test group demonstrating notably higher FAAM-SPORT scores than the control group (P < 0.05), indicating superior restoration of athletic capability in the Test group. As for improvements in ankle range of motion, both groups demonstrated significant enhancements compared to pre-intervention (P < 0.05). The Test group exhibited significantly superior improvements in dorsiflexion, eversion, and inversion range of motion compared to the control group (P < 0.05), while the control group did not exhibit significant enhancements in plantarflexion and eversion range of motion (P > 0.05). Both groups displayed enhanced ankle strength in CAI patients following the intervention (P < 0.05), with the Test group manifesting notably higher dorsiflexion and inversion strength than the control group (P < 0.05).ConclusionBoth blood flow restriction training combined with IASTM and traditional ankle strength and stability training have shown significant improvements in stability, function, strength, and range of motion in CAI patients. Furthermore, the Test group exhibits superior efficacy in ankle stability, daily functional movement, dorsiflexion, and eversion range of motion compared to the control group.Clinical trial registration9 February 2024, ClinicalTrials.gov, ID; NCT06251414.

Impact of Midfoot Charcot Arthropathy (Brodsky Type 1) on Patient Reported Outcome Scores

Introduction/Purpose: Charcot arthropathy is a debilitating and challenging clinical problem for patients and providers. Patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) are an effective tool for gauging a patient’s quality of life and daily functioning, but they have not been reported in the setting of Charcot arthropathy. Our goal is to assess PROMs severity in midfoot Charcot arthropathy (Brodsky Type 1), alongside linked demographics and comorbidities. We will compare these values with PROMs from conditions like ESRD, knee and hip arthritis, highlighting Charcot arthropathy's comparable debilitation. Methods: A retrospective chart review identified 67 patients with Brodsky Type 1 Charcot arthropathy by one of two fellowship- trained foot and ankle surgeons at a single academic medical center between years 2015 and 2023. ICD-10 CM codes E11.610, M14.671, and M14.672 were used to identify diagnosis of Charcot arthropathy and radiological interpretation determined Brodsky type. Data collected from patient charts included demographics, medical history, presence of ulcers, and preoperative Visual Analog Scale (VAS), 12-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-12), Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS), Pain Disability Index (PDI), SSS- 8, Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS), and Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) scores and postoperative FAOS and FAAM scores. A One-Way ANOVA was performed to evaluate statistical significance. Averages of preoperative PROM scores were compared to literature values for other diseases. Results: Our cohort was mostly male (58.2%), with mean age 61.73 years, BMI 32.9, and A1C 6.9. Initial presentation revealed 50.7% had ulcers. Brodsky type 1 (midfoot) had notably the lowest pre-op PROM scores when compared to other Brodsky types: PDI Recreation (p=.033), FAOS Symptoms and Stiffness (p=.044), and FAOS Recreation (p=.027). Ulcer presence yielded significantly lower FAAM-ADL scores (p=.038), while other PROMs showed no statistical difference. Our mean VAS score was 53.34 which was higher than hip arthritis VAS (43.0) but lower than ESRD VAS (60.0) and knee arthritis VAS (64.2). Our SF-12 PCS scores (29.4) exceeded prior reports (hip 28.5, knee 28.6), while SF-12 MCS scores were higher in earlier studies (hip 49.6, knee 51.5) than our 43.8. Conclusion: Patients with Charcot arthropathy struggle in daily tasks, reflected in lowered FAOS ADL scores. Brodsky type 1 patients also face challenges in higher-level activities, evident in reduced PDI recreation and FAOS recreation scores. Those with ulcers similarly encounter issues in daily tasks, seen in lower FAAM ADL scores. Brodsky type 1 patients also experience debilitating pain as noted by higher VAS scores when compared to known debilitating conditions such as hip and knee arthritis. Comparatively minor differences in knee and hip arthritis SF-12 PCS scores indicate significant physical limitations for these patients.

Outcomes of Tibiotalocalcaneal Arthrodesis vs Talar Body Prosthesis as Treatment of Collapsed Avascular Necrosis of the Talus: A 10- to 13-Year-Follow-up Retrospective Comparative Study.

Joint salvage surgeries such as tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis and talar prosthesis are commonly used in the surgical treatment of collapsed avascular necrosis of the talus (AVNT). However, differences in outcomes of these 2 surgical treatments are still inconclusive. This study compared the 10- to 13-year outcomes and 10-year survivorship rates of tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis and talar body prosthesis in the surgical treatment of collapsed AVNT. A retrospective comparative study was conducted of patients who underwent either tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis or talar body prosthesis implantation between 2005 and 2012. The demographic matching process resulted in 24 patients per treatment group. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using a numeric rating scale (NRS) of 2 hours of activities of daily living (ADL) and Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) for ADL. Radiographic assessments included the incidence of nonunion, adjacent joint arthritis, and prosthesis loosening. The 10-year survivorship of both surgical treatments was calculated. A P value of less than .05 was considered statistically significant. The median NRS of 2 hours of ADL and FAAM score for ADL were statistically significantly better in the talar body prosthesis group, with P values of .001 and <.001, respectively. The statistically significant differences in FAAM score for ADL exceeded the minimum clinically important difference. In the tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis group, nonunion was observed in 7 of 24 patients (29.2%). No prosthesis loosening was reported in the talar body prosthesis group. The 10-year survivorship was statistically significantly higher in talar body prosthesis than tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis (95.8% vs 70.8%), P = .023. Talar body prosthesis implantation in selected eligible patients demonstrated statistically significantly better 10- to 13-year clinical outcomes and higher 10-year survivorship compared with tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis in the surgical treatment of collapsed AVNT. Level III, retrospective cohort comparative study.

Comparison of Arthroscopic Microfracture for Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus With and Without Small and Shallow Subchondral Cysts.

Whether arthroscopic microfracture is effective in treating cystic osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLTs) remains controversial. In this study, outcome parameters in patients with small and shallow subchondral cysts are compared to patients without cysts with the hypothesis that equivalent outcomes may be found after primary microfracture treatment. From 2018 to 2021, all 50 OLTs treated with arthroscopic microfracture in the authors' hospital were retrospectively reviewed for eligibility. Single unilateral symptomatic lesions were included and divided into the cyst and noncyst groups, whereas kissing lesions and arthritic lesions were excluded. Numeric rating scale (NRS) scores, American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot scores, Tegner activity level scores, Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) scores, and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging results were used to describe outcomes. A total of 35 patients were included, 16 in the cyst group and 19 in the noncyst group. The patient characteristics were similar between the 2 groups (P > .05). In the cyst group the average cysts depth was 5.0 ± 1.3 mm. After a mean follow-up duration of 36.2 ± 10.2 months, no significant differences were found between the 2 groups in NRS, AOFAS, FAAM, or Tegner score improvement (P > .05). Three patients (19%) in the cyst group had no NRS score improvement. OLTs with small and shallow subchondral cysts can be treated with arthroscopic microfracture and achieve similar outcomes as noncystic lesions. A few cystic lesions may not respond to microfracture treatment. Level III, retrospective comparative study.

Efficacy and Safety of Platelet-Rich Plasma Injection for Chronic Plantar Fasciitis: A Prospective Study on Functional Restoration and Pain Relief.

Background Heel discomfort and functional impairment are frequently caused by plantar fasciitis, and treating it can be extremely difficult for clinicians and occasionally have unfavorable clinical consequences. Recently, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has been used as an alternative therapy for plantar fasciitis (PF) to reduce heel pain and improve functional restoration. We evaluated the current evidence concerning the efficacy and safety of PRP as a treatment for PF. Methodology This was a hospital-based prospective study on patients with plantar fasciitis with a symptom duration of six months or more with failed conservative therapy. All patients included in the study were assessed clinically and by a visual analog score (VAS) for heel pain, the Ankle-Hindfoot Scale (AHS) component of the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) and Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) scores before injection, and at three weeks, three and six-months post-PRP treatment follow-up. Ultrasonography (USG) measurement of plantar fascia thickness was done pre-injection and at the six-month follow-up for clinical outcomes and any complications. Results The study included 25 patients with plantar fasciitis, with the majority (48%) in the age group of 21-30 years. Females accounted for 64% of the patientswhile males accounted for 36%. Most patients (56%) had a moderately active daily activity level. The study found that 16 patients had bilateral plantar fasciitiswhile nine had unilateral plantar fasciitis. Among the patients with bilateral plantar fasciitis, a total of 32 heels were affectedwhile the 9 patients with unilateral plantar fasciitis had 9 affected heels. Most female patients (75%) had bilateral plantar fasciitiswhile most male patients (56%) had unilateral plantar fasciitis. Before PRP therapy, both male and female patients reported high pain scores on theVASfor both heels. However, after PRP infiltration, the VAS scores significantly decreased at three weeks, three months, and six months post-injection, indicating pain relief. The AOFAS hindfoot and ankle scores and FAAM scores showed improvement over the follow-up period. Both male and female patients experienced significant improvements in functional outcomes, with increases in AOFAS (p-value 0.45) and FAAM scores (p-value 0.31) at three weeks, three months, and six months post-injection compared to baseline. Statistical analysis revealed a significant decrease in pain scores (73% pain relief), as well as significant improvements in AOFAS scores with an average of 22.33 from baseline (mean = 67.75±9.7) to final follow-up (mean = 90.08±7.9) and FAAM scores with an average of 23.72 from baseline (mean = 49.38±5.2) to final follow-up (mean = 73.10±5.2) after PRP infiltration. Conclusion The outcomes of a single dosage of PRP injections demonstrate clinically and statistically substantial improvements in functional outcome scores, plantar fascia thickness evaluated by USG, and VAS scores for heel pain. According to the results of this study, local PRP injection is an effective treatment for chronic plantar fasciitis.

Isolated Talonavicular Arthrodesis as Treatment for Flexible Progressive Collapsing Foot Deformity: A Case Series.

For the younger, more active patient with flexible symptomatic progressive collapsing foot deformity (PCFD), joint-sparing procedures may be preferred to preserve functional motion. Isolated talonavicular (TN) arthrodesis has been described for treatment of rigid and flexible PCFD for patients that are older and less active whose deformity is still correctable through the TN joint. The purpose of this study was to evaluate radiographic and clinical outcomes in patients with PCFD treated with isolated triplanar correction with a TN joint arthrodesis. Forty-nine patients (53 feet) with flexible PCFD underwent isolated TN arthrodesis. Weightbearing radiographs were performed pre- and postoperatively, and measurements included lateral talar-first metatarsal angle, calcaneal pitch, TN coverage angle, and the anteroposterior (AP) talar-first metatarsal angle. The Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) and Veterans-Rand 12-Item Health Survey (VR-12) scores were also collected. Thirty-five females and 14 males were evaluated with a mean age of 63 years, at an average follow-up of 41.3 months. Significant improvements were found radiographically. Lateral radiographs demonstrated improvements in lateral talar-first metatarsal angle from 25.2 degrees preoperatively to 9.5 degrees postoperatively (P < .001) and calcaneal pitch from 14.9 degrees preoperatively to 17.5 degrees postoperatively (P < .001). AP radiographs showed the TN coverage angle improving from 35.0 degrees to 4.9 degrees postoperatively (P < .001) and AP talar-first metatarsal angle improving from 17.3 degrees to 5.9 degrees postoperatively (P < .001). Clinical outcomes were improved in the FAAM pain score (48.6 to 39.2, P = .130), FAAM ADL score (53.8 to 69.2, P = .002), FAAM Sport score (29.5 to 40.7, P = .099), and the overall FAAM score (47.7 to 63.1, P = .006). Patient satisfaction with medical care was 85.2/100 postoperatively. Isolated TN arthrodesis is a viable surgical option for older, lower-demand patients with flexible PCFD. This study demonstrated significant improvements in radiographic alignment and FAAM scores. Comparative studies with other surgical procedures should be performed to determine which is the best technique for older, lower-demand patients with flexible PCFD. Level III, retrospective cohort study.

Clinical, Radiographic, and Patient-Reported Outcomes of First Metatarsophalangeal Interposition Arthrodesis Using Porous Titanium Wedges.

First metatarsophalangeal (MTP) arthrodesis is a common surgical procedure for addressing hallux MTP pathology. In the setting of revision procedures with significant bone loss, porous titanium wedges may provide an alternative to structural bone autograft or allograft. The purpose of this study is to report the clinical and radiographic outcomes achieved in first MTP interposition arthrodesis using porous titanium wedges. A retrospective analysis of 9 patients with a mean age 65.4 years (45-82 years) who underwent first MTP interposition arthrodesis with the use of porous titanium wedges from February 2014 to September 2017 was performed. Outcomes were assessed using both plain-film radiographs and computed tomography (CT) scans, as well as patient-reported outcome measures, including Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) (Sports and Activities of Daily Living), pain Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and 36-Item Short Form Survey (SF-36). Average follow-up time was 34.2 months (14-72 months). At final follow-up, the average FAAM score was 91.1 ± 14.7 (75.1 ± 5.3 FAAM Activities of Daily Living; 17.9 ± 9.9 FAAM Sports). Average pain VAS score was 1.9 ± 1.7. Postoperative computed tomography (CT) imaging was obtained for 5 patients, all of which demonstrated good bony apposition or osseous integration of the wedge. Four patients underwent subsequent surgical procedures, including 3 isolated dorsal fixation revisions, and 1 complete MTP arthrodesis revision. To our knowledge, this study represents the first reported clinical and radiographic outcomes in patients undergoing first MTP interposition arthrodesis with use of porous titanium wedges. While we found this technique to be a viable alternative to bone grafting for this difficult problem, further research should focus on comparative data with other commonly performed operative techniques. Level IV: Case series.

A new method of anterior talofibular ligament reconstruction: Arthroscopically artificial ligament reconstruction with tensional remnant-repair

PurposeTo investigate the clinical effects of arthroscopically artificial ligament reconstruction with tensional remnant-repair in patients who are obese, and/or with demand for highly intensive sports, and/or with poor-quality ligament remnants. MethodsA retrospective case series study was performed on patients treated by arthroscopically anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) reconstruction with tensional remnant repair technique from January 2019 to August 2021. General data, including demographics, surgical time, and postoperative adverse events, were recorded. The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society score (AOFAS), foot and ankle ability measure (FAAM), visual analog scale (VAS), and anterior talar translation were measured preoperatively and at 6 weeks, 3 months, and 2 years postoperatively. Ultrasonography examination was performed preoperatively and 2 years postoperatively to evaluate the ATFL. Data were analyzed using SPSS 19.0. F test was used to analyze the pre- and postoperative VAS, FAAM, and AOFAS scores. The significance was set at p < 0.05. ResultsThere were 20 males and 10 females among the patients with a mean age of (30.71 ± 5.81) years. The average surgical time was (40.21 ± 8.59) min. No adverse events were observed after surgery. At 2 years postoperatively, the anterior talar translation test showed grade 0 laxity in all patients. VAS score significantly decreased from preoperatively to 6 weeks, 3 months, and 2 years postoperatively (p < 0.001). Improvement of FAAM score and the AOFAS score from preoperatively to 6 weeks, 3 months, and 2 years postoperatively was statistically significant (p < 0.001). At 3 months postoperatively, most patients (23/30) could return to their pre-injured activities of daily living status. At 2 years postoperatively, all patients were able to return to their pre-injured activities of daily living status, and almost every patient (18/19) who expected highly intensive sports returned to sports with only 1 obese patient failing to achieve the goal. The ultrasonography examination at 2 years postoperatively showed that there was a linear band structure of soft tissue on the tension-rich fiber tape image from the fibular to the talar attachment sits of ATFL. ConclusionThe novel arthroscopically artificial ligament reconstruction with tensional remnant-repair technique for ATFL achieved satisfactory clinical outcomes in the short and medium term after operation, and allowed early return to pre-injured activities, which could be a reliable option for patients with chronic lateral ankle instability.

Description of the Simple Ankle Value: A Simplified Patient-Reported Outcome Measure for the Assessment of Ankle and Hindfoot Function.

The Simple Ankle Value (SAV) is a patient-reported outcome measure (PROM) in which patients grade their ankle function as a percentage of that of their contralateral uninjured ankle. The primary aims of this study were to validate the SAV and evaluate its correlation with other PROMs. It was hypothesized that the SAV would be seen as a valid score that provides results comparable with those of the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) and the European Foot & Ankle Society (EFAS) score. Cohort study (Diagnosis); Level of evidence, 2. Patients seen for an ankle or hindfoot tissue were divided into those treated operatively and nonoperatively. A control group of patients treated for issues outside of the foot and ankle was also created. All patients completed the SAV followed by the FAAM and the EFAS scores. Patients treated operatively completed the questionnaires before surgery and 3 months after surgery. Patients treated nonoperatively completed the questionnaires twice 15 days apart. The correlation between the SAV score, the FAAM score, and the EFAS score was estimated with the Spearman correlation coefficient. A total of 209 patients (79 in the operative group, 103 in the nonoperative group, and 27 in the control group) were asked to complete the questionnaire, and all were included. The test-retest reliability of the SAV was excellent (intraclass correlation coefficient, 0.92; 95% CI, 0.88-0.94). No ceiling or floor effect was reported. Strong correlation was found between the SAV and the FAAM and EFAS scores. The SAV was able to discriminate patients from controls (54.18 ± 21.22 and 93.52 ± 9.589; P < .0001); however, SAV was not able to detect change from preoperative to 3 months postoperative (from 54.18 ± 21.22 to 62.53 ± 20.83; P = .44). Our study suggests that the SAV is correlated with existing accepted ankle PROMs. Further work with this PROM is needed to validate the questionnaire.

Anatomic Lateral Ligaments Repair Augmented with Suture-tape for Chronic Ankle Instability with Poor Quality of Remnant Ligamentous Tissue

Category: Sports; Ankle Introduction/Purpose: Because modified Broström procedure for chronic ankle instability provides a restoration of mechanical stability by reinforcing attenuated host tissue, poor quality of remnant ligamentous tissue can be considered as a prognostic factor for anatomic ligament repair surgery. The aim of this study was to evaluate the intermediate-term clinical outcomes after anatomic lateral ligaments repair augmented with suture-tape for chronic ankle instability with poor quality of ligament remnants. Methods: Thirty-six patients with the insufficient lateral ligament remnants confirmed by preoperative magnetic resonance image and intraoperative inspection were followed for more than 3 years after the augmented Broström repair. The clinical evaluation consisted of the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score(FAOS), Foot and Ankle Ability Measure(FAAM). Measurements on stress radiographs were performed to evaluate the changes of mechanical instability. To identify the changes of functional ankle instability, postural control ability was evaluated using single leg stance test with eyes closed. Results: FAOS and FAAM scores had significantly improved from preoperative average 56.3 and 51.8 points to 90.2 and 88.5 points at final follow-up, respectively (p &lt; .001). Talar tilt angle and anterior talar translation had significantly improved from preoperative average 16.3° and 13.2 mm to 3.5° and 4.3 mm at final follow-up, respectively (p &lt; .001). Balance retention time had significantly improved from preoperative average 3.8 seconds to 6.6 seconds at final follow-up (p &lt; .001). Complications included two wound problems (one with superficial infection and one with marginal necrosis) and one superficial peroneal nerve injury with temporary paresthesia. Although 8 patients sustained an ankle sprain after operation, only 1 patient(2.8%) showed a recurrence of subjective and mechanical instability. Conclusion: Modified Broström procedure augmented with suture-tape appears to be an effective alternative for chronic ankle instability with poor quality of ligament remnants. Through the suture-tape augmentation and the direct repair of attenuated ligaments, this combined procedure can provide reliable stability and advantages of the anatomic ligament repair.

Comparison of Acute vs Chronic Lisfranc Injury Patient-Reported Outcomes in Surgically Treated Patients

Category: Midfoot/Forefoot; Other Introduction/Purpose: Lisfranc injury presentations can vary from a mild sports-related midfoot sprain to severe midfoot deformity caused by a motor vehicle accident. Despite this, Lisfranc injuries are not highly prevalent. Lisfranc injuries are often difficult to diagnose, making it possible that the prevalence of these injuries is underreported. It is widely accepted that surgery to correct a Lisfranc injury should be performed as soon as possible since chronic injuries are associated with higher rates of midfoot degenerative changes. Chronic Lisfranc injuries are more commonly treated with primary arthrodesis (PA) “salvage” procedures rather than open reduction internal fixations (ORIF). The purpose of this study was to compare the patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) after surgery for patients with acute Lisfranc injuries to patients with chronic Lisfranc injuries. Methods: Retrospective chart review was completed to identify patients with surgically treated Lisfranc injuries by a single surgeon between May 2012 and February 2022. Acute versus chronic injury distinction was based on the amount of time between the date of injury and the date of surgery with the cutoff set at six weeks. Ambiguous injury timelines determined through clinical and surgical documentation were excluded. The acute and chronic cohorts were age-gender matched. PROMs, collected preoperatively and postoperatively, included the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM), Veterans RAND 12-Item Health Survey (VR-12), and visual analog scale (VAS) pain scale. Patient satisfaction was assessed through a survey consisting of a 0-100 rating scale with “least satisfied” being 0 and “most satisfied” being 100. Latest follow-up PROMs &lt; 12 months were excluded from analysis. Statistical analyses to determine significance were completed through sample t-tests assuming unequal variance with significance set at P&lt;.05. Results: Acute and chronic injury cohorts consisted of 42 patients (42 feet) each, and the average age of both cohorts were 36.58±16.89 years and 36.70±16.65 years, respectively. In the acute cohort, 24 ORIFs and 18 PAs were performed compared to 16 ORIFs and 26 PAs in the chronic cohort. The average latest follow-up time for PROMs for acute and chronic cohorts were 36.02 (range, 12-78) months and 27.72 (range, 12-48) months, respectively. The acute cohort demonstrated significantly lower FAAM scores preoperatively, but no significant preoperative VAS differences were found. Both acute and chronic cohorts individually had significant improvement in the FAAM from preoperative to latest follow-up, but there were no significant differences found between the PROMs at latest follow-up of both cohorts (Table 1). Conclusion: This study directly comparing acute versus chronic Lisfranc injury PROMs after surgery is the first of its kind. The results concluded there were no significant differences found between the latest follow-up PROMs. These findings are despite a higher proportion of PAs to ORIFs in the chronic cohort, which some published studies have concluded to be the superior surgical technique. This study supports the notion to treat surgically indicated Lisfranc injuries acutely.

The Effects of Tibialis Anterior Tenotomy on Wound Problems after Anterior Fusion Plating for Severe Ankle Arthritis

Category: Ankle Arthritis; Ankle Introduction/Purpose: Because nonunion is known to be a relatively common complication following ankle arthrodesis, various fixation techniques have been introduced to enhance the stability and to improve fusion rate. With the use of anterior plate supplementation, postoperative wound problems have been frequently reported despite better fusion rate. This study was performed to determine the effects of tibialis anterior(TA) tenotomy on wound complications and functional outcomes after anterior fusion plating for severe ankle arthritis. Methods: Forty-six patients who underwent ankle arthrodesis using anterior fusion plate were followed for more than 3 years. TA tenotomy was performed prior to wound closure in all patients. As a control group, thirty-eight patients who underwent arthrodesis without TA tenotomy were analysed. Clinical outcomes were evaluated with Ankle Osteoarthritis Scale(AOS) and Foot and Ankle Ability Measure(FAAM). Wound complication rate, time to fusion, fusion rate, time to pain relief below 3 points in visual analog scale were evaluated. Results: Mean AOS and FAAM scores significantly improved to 32.6 and 69.4 points at final followup, respectively. As compared to control group (33.8 and 67.7 points), there were no significant differences in clinical outcomes. As postoperative wound complications, there were 1 case of wound dehiscence and 1 case of superficial wound infection. TA tenotomy group showed lower wound complication rate (4.3%) than control group (21.1%). While there were no significant differences in fusion rate, time to fusion, and time to pain relief between both groups, control group needed higher rate of implant removal. Conclusion: Ankle arthrodesis using anterior fusion plate in conjuction with TA tenotomy appears to be an effective surgical option for end-stage ankle arthritis, with higher fusion rate and less wound complication rate. Although there was no specific functional deficit related to a loss of the TA tendon, further studies are needed to determine the long-term effects of the TA tenotomy in patients with a fused ankle.

Patient Reported Outcomes with the Use of Fibular Nail Fixation, Retrospective Review of 41 Cases

Category: Trauma; Ankle Introduction/Purpose: Traditionally, open reduction and internal fixation of unstable lateral malleolus fractures with plate and screw constructs has been considered the gold standard treatment. More recently, the use of an intramedullary fibula nail has gained popularity as an alternative treatment method using a mini open incision to obtain anatomic reduction. The minimally invasive nature of this technique and the no profile load bearing/sharing implant is reported with very low complication rates and a much lower incidence of implant irritation and removal. We report our surgical and patient reported outcomes for a cohort of single surgeon consecutive fibula nails with proximal and distal locking fixation. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed prospectively collected data on 41 patients that were implanted with the Fibulock® Fibula Nail (Arthrex, Naples, Florida, USA). All nails were implanted by a single surgeon. Intraoperative reduction quality was recorded, and patients were followed post operatively with radiographs that were assessed for maintenance of reduction, healing, and complications. Patient reported outcome questionnaires (PROMs) were collected preoperatively and at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months postoperatively. The Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) assessed the patient’s functional status in terms of activities of daily living and sports. The Visual Analogue Score (VAS) was also collected. Results: All 41 patients had one- to two- year follow-up (14.68 months ± 5.92). Demographics are listed on table 1. Forty of the patients were reduced via mini open incision and one was reduced closed. There were no conversions to a plate, no intraoperative complications, and no cases of loss of reduction postoperatively. No patient required revision surgeries, no cases of delayed union or nonunion, and zero superficial or deep postoperative infections. Statistical analysis revealed a significant difference between preoperative and postoperative FAAM scores overall (+67.52, p &lt; 0.001), within activities of daily living (+68.07, p &lt; 0.001), and sport (+65.95, p &lt; 0.001). Also, there was a significant difference between preoperative VAS and postoperative VAS (+4.73, p &lt; 0.001). Conclusion: Our results support existing literature that fixation of fibula fractures with an intramedullary nail with proximal and distal locking capabilities is an alternative option to a plate and screw construct, with a very low incidence of hardware related complications requiring removal, and favorable patient reported outcomes.

Autologous Costal Osteochondral Transplantation for Cystic Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus: Feasible and Effective.

Osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLT) is a common and clinically challenging disease. The optimal management is still under debate. The purpose of this prospective study was to investigate the feasibility and clinical outcomes of autologous costal osteochondral transplantation (ACOT) for the treatment of cystic OLT. From November 2021 to April 2023, five patients underwent autologous costal osteochondral transplantation (ACOT) for cystic OLT. The demographic data was described, including age, gender, lesion size and location. We prospectively evaluated their functional and imaging outcomes of the five patients for 12 months postoperatively, including numeric rating score (NRS) for pain when walking, Tegner score, American Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) score and Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) score, and imaging results. A paired t-test was used for preoperative and postoperative comparison of the paired-design dataset. The average age was 36.6 ± 11.1 years. The average diameter of chondral lesions was 14.95 ± 2.71 mm, the average diameter of subchondral cysts was 10.66 ± 1.84 mm, and their average depth was 10.40 ± 1.86 mm. At 12 months postoperatively, the clinical function indexes improved significantly, including NRS (from 5.2 ± 2.3 to 0), Tegner score (from 3.2 ± 0.4 to 5.8 ± 0.4), AOFAS score (from 72.8 ± 10.0 to 98.2 ± 4.0), and FAAM score (FAAM/ADL from 61.2 ± 24.7 to 99.3 ± 1.6; FAAM/Sports from 32.5 ± 13.73 to 96.3 ± 8.4). Their magnetic resonance observation of cartilage repair tissue (MOCART) scores reached 78.0 ± 7.6 points. ICRS scores of three patients were nearly normal (10 or 11 points). The biopsy of the surviving grafts showed plenty of hyaline cartilage matrix and scattered chondrocytes histologically. No major severe complications were reported during the 12 months follow-up. ACOT could significantly relieve the symptoms of patients with OLT and improve their clinical function at short-term follow-up. ACOT might be a feasible and useful method for repairing OLT with subchondral cysts.

Successful Return to Sport and Daily Activities After Suture Augmentation of Both the Anterior Talofibular Ligament and Calcaneofibular Ligament

To evaluate the return to sport and daily activities in addition to clinical outcomes after modification of the Brostöm repair, specifically using suture augmentation for concomitant fixation of both the anterior talofibular ligament and calcaneofibular ligament. Patients who had grade III ankle sprains and lateral ankle instability, all of whom failed supervised conservative management, were included. Patients underwent a modified Broström procedure consisting of suture augmentation for both the anterior talofibular ligament and calcaneofibular ligament. For clinical outcome evaluation, Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) and Karlsson-Peterson Scoring System for Ankle Function questionnaires coupled with questions regarding time of return to sport and level of sports activity were used. Thirty-one patients were included. The differences in preoperative and postoperative FAAM scores for both the Activities of Daily Living subscale and Sports subscale were significant (P < .001). The FAAM Activities of Daily Living score improved from an average of 46.06 preoperatively to 77.49 postoperatively (P < .001, 99% confidence interval, 26.4-36.4). The FAAM Sports score improved from an average of 4 preoperatively to 19.31 postoperatively (P < .001, 99% confidence interval, 11.6-19.0). For the Karlsson-Peterson Scoring System for Ankle Function, the surveyed population reported a mean of 82.74 points out of 100 post-op (standard deviation 20.14). The mean time to return to sport activity was 5.72 months. Mean follow-up time was 24.12 months. This variant Broström procedure with suture anchors and augmentation of both the anterior talofibular ligament and calcaneofibular ligament was effective in helping patients return to their preinjury functionality level in both daily life and sports activity. Level IV, therapeutic case series.

Paper 69: Do Patients Participate in Sports or Recreational Activity After Osteochondral Allograft Transplantation of the Talus?

Objectives: Fresh osteochondral allograft (OCA) transplantation has been reported as a viable treatment option for chondral lesions of the talus, but there is insufficient data regarding patients’ participation in sports or recreational activity following the procedure. The purpose of this study was to assess the frequency of patients who participated in sports or recreational activity following OCA of the talus. Methods: We identified 36 ankles in 34 patients (70% well trained or highly competitive athletes) who underwent OCA transplantation of the talus. Mean age was 36 years and 50% were male. Postoperatively, participation in sport or recreational activity, foot and ankle ability measure (FAAM) scores, American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot scores, and patient satisfaction with the results of surgery were assessed. Further surgery on the ankle was captured, and OCA failure was defined as any operation that involved removal of the allograft. Results: At a mean follow up of 8.6 years, 67% of patients reported that they had participated in sports or recreational activity after the OCA transplantation. Among those who participated in sport or recreation, 68% returned to their pre-injury sport, 21% played in competitive sports, and 95% participated in regular exercise. Following the OCA transplantation, 17% of ankles required further surgery and 11% were classified as OCA failures (underwent revision OCA transplantation or fusion). There was significant improvement in FAAM and AOFAS ankle-hindfoot scores, and 79% of patients were either satisfied or extremely satisfied with the results of surgery. Survivorship of the OCA transplantation was 94% at five years and 85% at ten years. Conclusions: Fresh OCA transplantation is a reasonable surgical option for osteochondral defects of the talus for young, active patients who have failed non-operative management. Most patients participate in sports or recreational activity following OCA transplantation of the talus.

Comparison of Intermediate-Term Clinical Outcomes Between Medial and Lateral Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus Treated With Autologous Osteochondral Transplantation.

The conventional operative method to treat an osteochondral lesion of the talus (OLT) is through bone marrow stimulation (BMS). Autologous osteochondral transplantation (AOT) is being used as an alternative option in cases with a large OLT, accompanying subchondral cyst, and/or failed BMS. We aimed to compare the intermediate-term clinical and radiologic results between medial and lateral OLTs after an AOT procedure. Among the patients who underwent AOT, 45 cases with at least 3 years' follow-up were included in this retrospective study. We had 15 cases of lateral lesions and selected 30 cases of medial lesions matched for age and gender. Lateral lesions were resurfaced without an osteotomy; medial lesion resurfacing was combined with a medial malleolar osteotomy. Clinical assessment was performed using the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) and Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM). Radiographic assessment included the irregularity of articular surface (subchondral plate), the progression of degenerative arthritis, and the change of the talar tilt. The mean FAOS and FAAM scores significantly improved after surgery in both groups. Up to 1 year postoperatively, there was significant difference in FAAM scores between the both groups (mean 75.3 points in medial group and 87.2 points in lateral group, P < .001). Delayed union or malunion of the malleolar osteotomy was found in 4 cases (13%) in the medial group. In addition, the progression of joint degeneration was observed in 3 cases (10%) in the medial group. There were no significant differences in the irregularity of articular surface and the change of talar tilt between both groups. A comparison between medial and lateral OLTs treated with AOT demonstrated comparable intermediate-term clinical outcomes. However, patients with medial OLT required a longer period to restore ability for daily and sport activities. In addition, we found more complications and higher rate of progression in the radiologic arthritis grade after medial malleolar osteotomy. Level IV, retrospective comparative study.

Concomitant Subchondral Bone Cysts Negatively Affect Clinical Outcomes Following Arthroscopic Bone Marrow Stimulation for Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus

To study the effects of concomitant subchondral bone cysts (SBCs) on prognosis after arthroscopic bone marrow stimulation (BMS) for osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLTs) less than 100 mm2 and to further assess the correlation between cystic OLT area, depth, or volume and postoperative outcomes. We retrospectively analyzed consecutive patients with OLTs (<100 mm2) who received BMS between April 2017 and May 2020 with a minimum follow-up of 24 months. Lesion area, depth, and volume were collected on preoperative magnetic resonance imaging. Visual analog scale (VAS), American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society, Karlsson-Peterson, Tegner, Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM)-Activities of Daily Life and Sports scores were assessed before surgery and at the latest follow-up. Additionally, a general linear model (GLM) and a Pearson correlation analysis (PCA) were performed to investigate the effects of concomitant cysts on postoperative results. Eighty-two patients with a mean follow-up of 39.22 ± 12.53 months were divided into non-cyst (n= 45; 39.91 ± 13.03 months) and cyst (n= 37; 38.37 ± 12.02 months) groups. There was no significant difference in the OLT area between the non-cyst and cyst groups (46.98 ± 19.95 mm2 vs 56.08 ± 22.92 mm2; P= .093), but the cyst group showed significantly greater depth (6.06 ± 1.99 mm vs 3.96 ± 1.44 mm; P= .000) and volume (248.26 ± 156.81 mm3 vs 134.58 ± 89.68 mm3; P= .002). The non-cyst group showed significantly more improvement in VAS pain, Karlsson-Peterson, Tegner, and FAAM scores than the cyst group (P < .05). The GLM indicated that SBCs negatively affected VAS pain and Tegner scores (P < .05). For OLTs with cysts, the PCA showed that an area of 90.91 mm2, depth of 7.56 mm, and volume of 428.13 mm3 were potential cutoff values associated with poor outcomes. The concomitant SBCs negatively affected the prognosis of OLTs after BMS. For OLTs with cysts, an area of 90.91 mm2, depth of 7.56 mm, and volume of 428.13 mm3 were the potential cutoff values associated with poor outcomes after BMS. Level III, retrospective comparative study.

Role of platelet rich plasma in the treatment of plantar fasciitis

Introduction: Plantar fasciitis is a commonly occurring foot complaint that seriously affects the patient’s daily activities and quality of life. Plantar fasciitis is characterised by pain in the heel, which is aggravated on weight bearing after prolonged rest. Conservative noninvasive lines of treatment are numerous, among which platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has recently been demonstrated to be helpful in managing plantar fasciitis. Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of platelet-rich plasma as a form of interventional pain management for plantar fasciitis. Materials and Methods: This prospective study was carried out on 40 patients suffering from chronic Plantar Fasciitis who did not respond to conservative therapies including physical therapy, NSAIDs and heel cushions for a longer period. The patients were selected from the outpatient department of the Orthopaedics SKIMS medical College, Bemina Srinagar. All enrolled patients were treated with single dose of local injection of 3 mL autologous PRP. Assessment was done using visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain intensity. Functionally, foot and ankle ability measure (FAAM) was used at baseline and after injection. Results: The mean VAS score before the procedure was 7.21± 2.33 and after procedure were 2.96 ± 0.54. The mean difference of 4.24 was statistically significant. There was a significant raise of mean FAAM score 29.37 after 24 weeks of treatment and the difference was statistically significant. Conclusion: The present study observed by follow-up of PRP treated plantar fasciitis patients at intervals, revealed that this procedure is safe, efficient and effective for long term pain reduction along with reduction in thickness of plantar fascia.