Foot And Ankle Outcome Score Subscales Research Articles

Bone Mineral Density and Clinical Outcome after Ankle Fracture.

No gold standard exists for bone mineral density (BMD) measurement of the ankle. This study aimed to determine the correlation between bone density using Hounsfield units (HU) based on computed tomography (CT) and BMD using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) as well as to evaluate the correlation between HU and clinical outcome of ankle fracture. Fifty-one patients aged ≥65 years who underwent surgical treatment for trimalleolus or bimalleolus ankle fractures were included. The HU were measured at the distal tibia metaphyseal region approximately 1 cm proximal to the plafond on the axial images of preoperative CT. BMD was measured using DXA within one year before the injury. The clinical outcome was evaluated according to the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS). Although the HU of an osteoporosis group was lower than that of a non-osteoporosis group, we observed no significant difference between the two groups. The mean HU significantly correlated with the lumbar and total lumbar spine BMD using DXA. Increased HU significantly correlated with improved clinical outcomes in three of five FAOS subscales: symptoms, pain, activity of daily living (ADL), and quality of life (QOL). In a linear regression analysis adjusted for age and body mass index, increased HU significantly correlated with improved clinical outcomes in three of five FAOS subscales: symptoms, pain, ADL, and QOL. The correlations between bone density using HU and BMD and those between HU and the clinical outcome were confirmed in ankle fractures. The HU of preoperative CT might provide valuable information for predicting postoperative clinical outcomes.

Point of Care Ultrasound Guided Management of Lateral Ankle Sprains: A Case Series.

Lateral ankle sprain (LAS) is a common injury with incidence rates reported at 7.2 per 1000 person-years. Physical examination strategies provide limited information to guide rehabilitation that can maximize clinical outcomes. Early and accurate diagnostic information using ultrasound imaging enables individualized care and the ability to monitor healing along with its response to activity and rehabilitation. The purpose of this study was to describe and observe the outcomes associated with Point of Care Ultrasound (POCUS) guided early management of acute and sub-acute lateral ankle sprains. Case series. Individuals with a LAS within the prior 28 days underwent a clinical evaluation to include a POCUS exam to assess ligamentous integrity. Objective and POCUS findings were integrated to classify each LAS into one of four categories. Each grade of ankle sprain corresponded to levels of bracing for the protection of injured structures with each patient receiving physical therapy care based on rehabilitation guidelines. Participants completed the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) activities of daily living and Sports subscale, the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS), Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information Systems Global Health, Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia (TSK-11), Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool (CAIT), and the Numeric Pain Rating Scale as well as the Ankle Lunge Test and Figure 8 measurements at baseline, 4 weeks, 8 weeks and 12 weeks post enrollment. The FAAM Sport subscale, all FAOS subscales, and the TSK-11 were also collected at 24 weeks while the CAIT was collected at baseline and 24 weeks. Fourteen participants were enrolled with 11 participants completing all data collection. FAAM Sport scores significantly improved at 4, 8, 12 and 24 weeks. All components of the FAOS significantly increased except for Sport scores at four weeks and Quality of Life scores at four and eight weeks. POCUS guided early management and ligamentous protection of LASs resulted in significant short and long-term improvement in function and return to sporting activity. This case series highlights the feasibility of using ultrasound imaging to assess the severity of ligamentous injury and align bracing strategies for ligamentous protection. The observations from this case series suggest that functional bracing strategies focused on ligamentous protection to promote healing and reduce re-injury rates does not delay improvement in functional outcomes. Level IV, Case Series.

Incidence and Progression of Foot Osteoarthritis in a Longitudinal Cohort: The Johnston County Osteoarthritis Project

Introduction: The aim of this study was to examine the incidence and progression of foot osteoarthritis (OA), as well as associated factors, in a community-based cohort. Methods: Baseline (2013–2015) and follow-up (2016–2018) foot radiographs were available for 541 participants (71% women, mean age 69 years; 35% black, 53% with obesity). The LaTrobe Foot Atlas was used to examine osteophytes (OPs, score 0–3) and joint space narrowing (JSN, score 0–3) at 5 joint sites. Incident foot radiographic OA (rOA) was a baseline score <2 OP and JSN in all 5 joints with ≥2 OP or JSN at follow-up in any of the joints. Progression was a worsening OP or JSN score in a joint with baseline foot rOA. At baseline and follow-up, participants reported the presence/absence of foot symptoms and completed the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) for each foot. Joint-based logistic regression models with generalized estimating equations were used to examine associations (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 95% confidence interval [CI]) of foot rOA incidence and progression and with covariates. Results: Among 928 feet without baseline rOA, 4% developed incident foot rOA (2% of those developed symptoms). Among 154 feet with baseline foot rOA, 55% had radiographic progression (16% of those had symptoms). Women and those with higher body mass index (BMI) were more likely to have incident foot rOA (aOR [95% CI] = 4.10 [1.22, 13.8] and 1.60 [1.31, 1.97], respectively); history of gout was associated with incidence or progression of foot rOA (2.75 [1.24, 6.07]). BMI was associated with worse scores on all FAOS subscales (aORs range 1.21–1.40). Conclusion: Progression of foot rOA is common but not necessarily related to worsening symptoms. BMI may be a modifiable risk factor for foot OA.

Prognostic Values of Clinical and Anthropometric Characteristics in Lateral Ankle Sprain Following Physiotherapy

Lateral ankle sprain (LAS) is a common injury in sports and daily activities. The present study aimed to determine the prognostic value of clinical and anthropometric parameters in predicting LAS recovery after physiotherapy. Twenty-seven patients with acute LAS were included in this cohort study. First, prognostic factors and anthropometric variables were assessed, along with the time elapsed since the injury, pain score on a visual analogue scale (VAS), navicular drop, ankle range of motion (ROM), and ambulation status. Second, patients received physiotherapy, and their recovery status was assessed using the foot and ankle outcome score (FAOS) questionnaire immediately (first evaluation) and one month after physiotherapy (second evaluation). Univariate regression analysis and stepwise regression were used to evaluate the association between prognostic factors and outcome predictability. The results of this paper have shown that ambulation status was significantly correlated with all FAOS subscales in both the first and second evaluations, except for the FAOS-symptoms (FAOS-Sx) and FAOS-quality of life (FAOS-QOL) subscales in the first evaluation. The eversion ROM was significantly correlated with the FAOS-Sx and FAOS-Sports and Recreational activities (FAOS-Sport/Rec) subscales in the first evaluation. Additionally, age, height, and VAS were significantly correlated with FAOS-activity of daily living (FAOS-ADL) in the first evaluation, so this means that ambulation status is a valuable predictor of treatment success immediately and one month after physiotherapy intervention and compared to other FAOS subscales, the FAOS-QOL subscale is a more reliable predictor of the effectiveness of physiotherapy.

Mid-Term Functional Outcomes Following Reoperation after Total Ankle Arthroplasty: A Case- Control Study

Category: Ankle Arthritis; Ankle Introduction/Purpose: A relatively frequent need for secondary surgery is an important consideration when treating end-stage ankle arthritis with total ankle arthroplasty (TAA). Despite a significant reported rate of non-revision reoperation after TAA, it is uncertain if these subsequent procedures have an impact on the longer term outcomes. It is imperative to know whether patients undergoing reoperation after TAA would have comparable functional ability compared to those with uncomplicated TAA in order to optimize patient outcomes when faced with complications after TAA. This study aimed to compare minimum five-year functional outcomes of patients who had undergone reoperation after TAA to those who did not require reoperation. Methods: Seventy-six ankles (74 patients) who underwent TAA with the Salto Talaris fixed bearing system between 2007 to 2014 were allocated into two groups based on presence (n=16) or absence of reoperation (n=60). Reoperations included all secondary procedures after index TAA, excluding revision surgeries requiring removal or exchange of the original prosthesis. The foot and ankle outcome score (FAOS) at preoperative and minimum five-year follow-up was compared between the groups. Additionally, improvements in FAOS subscales were compared. Preoperative deformity, postoperative implant alignment, number of periprosthetic cysts, and subsidence between groups were compared using standard weightbearing radiographs. A subgroup analysis was performed to compare clinical and radiographic outcomes of gutter impingement patients to those of uncomplicated group. Results: The most common cause of reoperation was gutter impingement (n=11), followed by stress fracture of the medial malleolus (n=2), tarsal tunnel syndrome (n=1), periprosthetic cyst (n=1), and infection (n=1). In comparison to the non- reoperation group, all FAOS subscales except for the Sports and Recreational Activities subscale were significantly lower in the reoperation group at final follow-up. The reoperation group exhibited significantly less improvement in the Pain, Symptoms, and Quality of Life subscales at final follow-up (p&lt;0.05, Figure 1). There were no statistical differences in the radiographic parameters between both groups. In a subgroup analysis, all FAOS subscales at final follow-up were significantly lower in the gutter debridement patient group. There was significantly less improvement in the Pain, Symptoms, and QoL subscales in the gutter debridement patient group compared to the non-reoperation group (p&lt;0.05 in all three subscales). Postoperative radiograph showed no differences between groups. Conclusion: Patients who underwent reoperation after TAA demonstrated inferior functional outcomes at mid-term follow-up. At the time of the primary TAA, an emphasis should be placed on carefully examining and preventing possible causes of reoperation to achieve favorable patient outcomes. Additionally, when faced with performing a reoperation following TAA, a thorough evaluation to determine the underlying cause of the reoperation should be performed to guide treatment.

Mid-term functional outcomes following reoperation after total ankle arthroplasty: A retrospective cohort study

BackgroundDespite a significant reported rate of non-revision reoperation after total ankle arthroplasty (TAA), it is uncertain if these subsequent procedures have an impact on the longer term outcomes. This study aimed to compare minimum five-year functional outcomes of patients who had undergone reoperation after TAA to those who did not require reoperation. MethodsSeventy-six ankles (74 patients) who underwent TAA with the Salto Talaris fixed bearing system between 2007 and 2014 were allocated into two groups based on presence (n = 16) or absence of reoperation (n = 60). Reoperations included all secondary procedures after index TAA, excluding revision surgeries requiring removal or exchange of the original prosthesis. The foot and ankle outcome score (FAOS) at preoperative and minimum five-year follow-up was compared between the groups. Additionally, improvements in FAOS subscales were compared. Preoperative deformity, postoperative implant alignment, number of periprosthetic cysts, and subsidence between groups were compared using standard weightbearing radiographs. ResultsThe most common cause of reoperation was gutter impingement (n = 11), followed by stress fracture of the medial malleolus (n = 2), tarsal tunnel syndrome (n = 1), periprosthetic cyst (n = 1), and infection (n = 1). In comparison to the non-reoperation group, all FAOS subscales except for the Sports and Recreational Activities subscale were significantly lower in the reoperation group at final follow-up. The reoperation group exhibited significantly less improvement in the Pain, Symptoms, and Quality of Life subscales at final follow-up (p < 0.05). There were no statistical differences in the radiographic parameters between both groups. ConclusionsPatients who underwent reoperation after TAA demonstrated inferior functional outcomes at mid-term follow-up. An emphasis should be placed on preventing possible causes of reoperations to achieve favorable patient outcomes. Additionally, if a reoperation is deemed necessary, a thorough evaluation and surgical correction of underlying causes should be achieved.

Urdu translation and cross-cultural validation of Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool (CAIT)

BackgroundThe Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool (CAIT) is a self-assessment tool for people with chronic ankle instability (CAI). This tool had been translated and validated in many languages but there is no Urdu version of CAIT available.ObjectiveThe aim was to translate the CAIT into the Urdu Language and determine its validity and reliability.MethodsA standardized step-wise forward and backward translation process was followed. Content, construct, convergent validity, internal consistency, and test–retest reliability were determined. A pilot study was done on 10 patients with CAI. The final version was investigated in 120 patients (mean age 26.6 ± 4.8 yrs) with CAI for validity and test–retest reliability in which 105 participants filled the questionnaire in the second week. Internal consistency was calculated by Cronbach’s alpha. Intraclass correlation (ICC2,1) was calculated to assess test–retest reliability between two weeks. Standard error of measurement (SEM) and smallest detectable change (SDC) were calculated. Convergent validity was determined by correlating Urdu CAIT with the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) using Spearman’s correlation co-efficient. Factor analysis describes the structure of underlying factors.ResultsContent validity index was > 0.80 of each question. Internal consistency was acceptable (Cronbach’s alpha > 0.75). Convergent validity with FAOS total score showed a moderate negative correlation (r = -0.68) with U-CAIT and negatively correlated with subscales of FAOS. Test–retest reliability was excellent ICC2,1 > 0.80. Scree plot showed 3 factors > 1eigen value.ConclusionThe Urdu version of CAIT is a valid and reliable assessment tool for patients with chronic ankle instability. It has good content validity, construct validity and reliability.

Use of Extracellular Matrix Cartilage Allograft May Improve Infill of the Defects in Bone Marrow Stimulation for Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus

Category:AnkleIntroduction/Purpose:The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of Extracellular Matrix Cartilage Allograft (EMCA) as an adjuvant to bone marrow stimulation (BMS) compared to BMS alone in the treatment of osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLT).Methods:A retrospective cohort study comparing patients treated with BMS with EMCA (BMS-EMCA group) and BMS alone (BMS group) between 2013 and 2019 was undertaken. Clinical outcome was evaluated with the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) pre-and postoperatively. Postoperative MRIs were evaluated using a modified Magnetic Resonance Observation of Cartilage Tissue (MOCART) score. Comparisons between groups were made with the Man-Whitney U test for continuous variables and the χ2 or Fisher exact test for categorical variables.Results:Twenty-four patients underwent BMS with EMCA (BMS-EMCA group) and 24 patients underwent BMS alone (BMS group). The mean age was 40.8 years (range, 19 to 60 years) in BMS-EMCA group and 47.8 years (range, 24 to 60 years) in BMS group (p=0.060). The mean follow-up time was 20.0 months (range, 12-36 months) in BMS-EMCA group and 26.9 months (range, 12 to 55 months) in BMS group (p=0.031). Both groups showed significant improvements in all FAOS subscales. No significant differences between groups were found in all postoperative FAOS. The mean MOCART score in BMS-EMCA group was higher (76.3 vs 66.3), but not statistically significant (p=0.176). The MRI analysis showed that 87.5% of BMS-EMCA group had complete infill of the defect with repair tissue, however less than half (46.5%) of BMS group had complete infill (p=0.015).Conclusion:BMS with EMCA is an effective treatment strategy for the treatment of OLT and provides better cartilage infill in the defect on MRI. However, this did not translate to improved functional outcomes compared with BMS alone in the short-term.

Do Patient Personality Traits and Self-Reported Physical and Psychosocial Symptoms Help to Predict Hallux Valgus Surgery Outcomes?

As many as 10% of patients remain unsatisfied after hallux valgus surgery. We explored the effects of patient personality traits and other preoperative patient characteristics on patient-reported outcomes following surgery. Eighty consecutive adult patients (mean age 45 ± 14 years, 91% female [73/80]) undergoing scarf bunionectomy at our practice were prospectively enrolled from January 2016 to January 2017 and followed for 12 months. Predictor variables included preoperative physical and psychosocial complaints (determined via Brief Battery for Health Improvement-2 questionnaire), patient aggression level, and personality traits (extraversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, emotional stability and openness). Primary outcome measures included the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) with its 5 subscales, and patient satisfaction. Multiple multivariable regression models were used to determine preoperative patient characteristics associated with FAOS outcome and satisfaction at 12 months. Seventy subjects (70/80, 87.5%) completed the study. All patients experienced technically successful surgery. In the multivariable regression analyses, none of the combinations of potentially important predictor variables explained more than 19.8% of the variance in any of the 5 FAOS subscales at 12 months (range: 6.1%-19.8%). Furthermore, no predictor was associated with patient satisfaction in either the univariate or multivariable analyses. We conclude that patient personality traits, aggression level, and self-reported physical and psychological symptoms do very little to predict outcomes in hallux valgus surgery. As healthcare delivery in the United States has increasingly prioritized patient satisfaction, we will need to broaden the quest for predictors associated with our best (and worst) patient-reported outcomes after hallux valgus surgery.

Radiofrequency Microtenotomy or Physical Therapy for Achilles Tendinopathy: Results of a Randomized Clinical Trial.

Background:Achilles tendinopathy is a painful disorder, and various treatment options are available. Bipolar radiofrequency microtenotomy (RFM) has shown promising results in treating tendinosis.Purpose/Hypothesis:The purpose was to compare the results between treatment with bipolar RFM and physical therapy (PT) for patients with midportion Achilles tendinopathy. It was hypothesized that RFM would be equivalent or superior to PT.Study Design:Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1.Methods:A total of 38 patients with midportion Achilles tendinopathy were evaluated for 2 years. The patients were randomized to receive either RFM or PT. There were 20 patients in the RFM group and 18 patients in the PT group. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain and the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS). The degree of tendinosis was evaluated with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the affected ankle performed before intervention and 2 years after intervention.Results:In both groups, the VAS scores at the 2-year follow-up were significantly improved compared with preintervention: from 7.2 ± 1.5 to 1.0 ± 1.4 for the RFM group and from 5.9 ± 1.3 to 3.1 ± 1.8 for the PT group (P < .01 for both). Compared with the PT group, the RFM group had significantly better VAS scores at both the 1- and 2-year follow-ups (P < .01 for both) and better scores on 4 of the 5 FAOS subscales at the 2-year follow-up (P < .01 for all). MRI revealed an improvement in the tendinosis score in both groups, without any significant difference between the groups.Conclusion:In this randomized study, the clinical assessments revealed significant improvements in the VAS, FAOS, and tendinosis score as seen on MRI 2 years after intervention with either RFM or PT in patients with midportion Achilles tendinopathy. The improvement was significantly better in the RFM group with regard to VAS and FAOS, but not in the MRI appearance.Registration:NCT03274557 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier).

Health-Related Outcomes 3-15 Years Following Ankle Sprain Injury in Youth Sport: What Does the Future Hold?

This study examined the association between youth sport-related ankle sprain injury and health-related outcomes, 3-15 years postinjury. A historical cohort study in which uninjured controls were cluster-matched with injured cases. The primary outcome was self-reported Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS). Secondary outcomes included measures of adiposity, validated questionnaires for physical activity, athletic identity, fear of pain, and tests of strength, balance, and function. We recruited 86 participants (median age of 23 years; 77% female); 50 with a time-loss ankle sprain, median of 8 years postinjury, and 36 uninjured controls cluster-matched by sex and sport. Based on mixed effects multivariable regression models, previously injured participants demonstrated poorer outcomes than controls on all 5 FAOS subscales regardless of sex and time since injury, with the largest differences observed in symptoms (-20.9, 99% CI: -29.5 to -12.3) and ankle-related quality of life (-25.3, 99% CI: -34.7 to -15.9) subscales. Injured participants also had poorer unipedal dynamic balance (-1.9, 99% CI: 3.5 to -0.2) and greater fear of pain (7.2, 99% CI: 0.9-13.4) compared with controls. No statistically significant differences were found for other secondary outcomes. At 3-15 years following time-loss ankle sprain injury in youth sport, previously injured participants had more pain and symptoms, poorer self-reported function, ankle-related quality of life, reduced sport participation, balance, and greater fear of pain than controls. This underlines the need to promote the primary prevention of ankle sprains and secondary prevention of potential health consequences, including posttraumatic osteoarthritis. Level III, historical cohort study.

Use of Extracellular Matrix Cartilage Allograft May Improve Infill of the Defects in Bone Marrow Stimulation for Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus

To evaluate the effectiveness of extracellular matrix cartilage allograft (EMCA) as an adjuvant to bone marrow stimulation (BMS) compared with BMS alone in the treatment of osteochondral lesions of the talus. A retrospective cohort study comparing patients treated with BMS with EMCA (BMS-EMCA group) and BMS alone (BMS group) between 2013 and 2019 was undertaken. Clinical outcomes were evaluated with the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) preoperatively and postoperatively. Postoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans were evaluated using the modified Magnetic Resonance Observation of Cartilage Repair Tissue score. Comparisons between groups were made with the Mann-Whitney U test for continuous variables and the Fisher exact test for categorical variables. Twenty-four patients underwent BMS with EMCA (BMS-EMCA group), and 24 patients underwent BMS alone (BMS group). The mean age was 40.8 years (range, 19-60 years) in the BMS-EMCA group and 47.8 years (range, 24-60 years) in the BMS group (P= .060). The mean follow-up time was 20.0 months (range, 12-36 months) in the BMS-EMCA group and 26.9 months (range, 12-55 months) in the BMS group (P= .031). Both groups showed significant improvements in all FAOS subscales. No significant differences between groups were found in all postoperative FAOS values. The mean Magnetic Resonance Observation of Cartilage Repair Tissue score in the BMS-EMCA group was higher (76.3 vs 66.3) but not statistically significant (P= .176). The MRI analysis showed that 87.5% of the BMS-EMCA patients had complete infill of the defect with repair tissue; however, fewer than half of the BMS patients (46.5%) had complete infill (P= .015). BMS with EMCA is an effective treatment strategy for osteochondral lesions of the talus and provides better cartilage infill in the defect on MRI. However, this did not translate to improved functional outcomes compared with BMS alone in the short term. Additionally, according to analysis of the minimal clinically important difference, there was no significant difference in clinical function scoring between the 2 groups postoperatively. Level III, retrospective comparative study.

Patient-reported joint status and quality of life in sports-related ankle disorders and osteoarthritis.

To compare self-reported joint status, quality of life, level of activity and pain management in patients scheduled for surgical treatment of seven common ankle disorders: osteoarthritis (OA), primary osteochondral lesion of talus (P-OLT), recurrent osteochondral lesion of talus (R-OLT), lateral ankle instability (INST) and anterior (ANT-IMP), posterior (POST-IMP) and combined (COMB-IMP) ankle impingements. The cross-sectional study design was implemented. Hospital records of 610 patients that were admitted for surgical intervention on the ankle joint over a seven year period were reviewed. Patient selection (over 18years, no systemic musculoskeletal illnesses, only one isolated ankle pathology) resulted in 123 eligible patients for current study (OA 22, P-OLT 19, R-OLT 18, INST 15, ANT-IMP 20, POST-IMP 13, COMB-IMP 16). Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS), European quality of life in a visual analogue and in five dimensions (EQ-VAS, EQ-5D-3L), Tegner activity scale (TAS) and pain medication usage were recorded at the admission and compared across these seven groups. All evaluated ankle disorders induced the following: (a) subjective joint-specific dysfunction - FAOS cumulative: 42 (OA), 50 (R-OLT), 65 (P-OLT), 65 (INST), 63 (ANT-IMP), 61 (POST-IMP), 60 (COMB-IMP); (b) decreased quality of life - EQ-5D-3L: 0.41 (OA), 0.44 (R-OLT), 0.56 (P-OLT), 0.62 (INST), 0.64 (ANT-IMP), 0.56 (POST-IMP), 0.60 (COMB-IMP) and (c) decreased activity level - TAS: 2.1 (OA), 2.7 (R-OLT), 3.7 (P-OLT), 4.0 (INST), 4.7 (ANT-IMP), 4.4 (POST-IMP), 5.1 (COMB-IMP). FAOS subscales, EQ-5D-3L and TAS were significantly lower in OA and R-OLT patients. Between 31% (POST-IMP) and 68% (OA and R-OLT) of patients required pain medication over one month prior to the assessment. All analysed ankle disorders in patients amenable for surgical treatment induced a considerable decline in patients` perceived ankle function, quality of life and activity level. The worst subjective ankle status was reported equally by OA and R-OLT patients, while patients with the other five disorders reported comparable values.

Evaluation of an expectation and outcome measurement questionnaire in ankle fracture patients: The Trauma Expectation Factor Trauma Outcomes Measure (TEFTOM) Eurasia study.

The Trauma Expectation Factor Trauma Outcomes Measure (TEFTOM) questionnaire is a self-administered, patient-rated outcome measurement questionnaire designed to measure both 'expectation' and 'outcome' in orthopaedic trauma patients using two subsets of 10 items. We aimed to validate this instrument in a culturally diverse cohort of patients recruited from Asian and European regions. A total of 193 adult patients with surgically treated AO Foundation/Orthopaedic Trauma Association types 43 and 44 ankle malleolar and distal tibia fractures were recruited with 158 followed up till 1 year. Expectations were assessed prior to surgery, at 2 weeks and after 6 months using the trauma expectation factor (TEF) score. Outcomes were evaluated at 2 weeks, 6 and 12 months using the trauma outcome measure (TOM), American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), foot and ankle outcome score (FAOS) and short form-36 (SF-36) questionnaires. Psychometric properties of TEFTOM were assessed. TEF and TOM demonstrated good internal consistency (Cronbach's α > 0.87) and reliability at all time points (intra-class correlation coefficients > 0.90). TOM showed strong correlations (R2 ≥ 0.60) with the AAOS foot and ankle score, all FAOS subscales, except 'symptoms' and SF-36 physical functioning, role physical, bodily pain, social functioning and the physical component summary at 6 and 12 months. Effect sizes for TOM were 2.30 and 0.74 from 2 weeks to 6 months and from 6 months to 12 months, respectively. The baseline patient TEF was predictive for the 1-year TOM score. TEFTOM demonstrated good psychometric properties in this cohort of patients with ankle fractures. The TEF 'expectation' score was predictive of the TOM 'outcome' score. We recommend researchers and clinicians to utilize TEFTOM when patient expectation measurement is concerned for orthopaedic trauma patients.

Novel \u201cdouble-strut\u201d fibula ankle arthrodesis for large tumor-related bone defect of distal tibia

BackgroundReconstruction for large bone defect of distal tibia after wide resection of tumor is difficult, and the best option remains controversial. This study presents a novel “double-strut” fibula ankle arthrodesis for this issue.MethodsNine patients with malignant or aggressive tumors of distal tibia underwent novel “double-strut” fibula ankle arthrodesis after wide tumor resection were retrospectively reviewed. We assessed the bone union time, complications and oncology outcome clinically and radiographically. The Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) score and the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) were used to evaluate the functional outcome.ResultsThe average followup period was 53 ± 46 months. There was no deep infection or graft fracture observed in this series. Internal fixation loosening was found in one case. In these patients, eight achieved union at both proximal and distal junctions, while one achieved union only distally. The mean union time of the proximal junctions and distal junctions was 10.5 ± 1.6 months and 8.7 ± 2.3 months, respectively. The mean postoperative MSTS score was 83% ± 8%. The subscales of FAOS indicating the most problem was Sport and Recreation Function with a mean score of 18 ± 11. At the final follow-up, one of them (1/9, 11%) experienced local recurrence in soft tissue and received another resection surgery, and four (4/9, 44%) patients developed lung metastases.ConclusionsFor large bone defect of distal tibia, this novel “double-strut” fibula reconstruction can be a viable alternative, which is capable of achieving durable ankle fusion and functional salvaged limb with low rate of complications.

Understanding limitations in sport 1 year after an Achilles tendon rupture: a multicentre analysis of 285 patients.

The purpose of this study was to determine patient-related and treatment-related predictors of superior and inferior function in sport and recreational activities 1year after an Achilles tendon rupture. This study is based on a multicentre cohort from 4 previous randomised controlled trials. All the patients who had responded to the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) at the 1-year follow-up were included. All the patients had a clinically verified Achilles tendon rupture and patients who underwent surgery were treated within 96h of the time of rupture. Patients were excluded in the event of a previous Achilles tendon rupture or the presence of other lifestyle diseases. The primary outcomes of the study were reported in the 20th and 80th percentiles of the FAOS subscale, function in sports and recreational activities. A total of 285 (84% men) patients with an average age of 40.0 (SD 8.4) years were included. Smoking increased the odds of superior self-reported FAOS sport and recreation [OR 4.59 (95% CI 1.58-13.32), p = 0.005] compared with non-smoking, while being female [OR 0.38 (95% CI 0.16-0.93), p = 0.035] and every increment of one unit in BMI [OR 0.89 (95% CI 0.81-0.99), p = 0.029] reduced the odds. No variable was statistically significant when attempting to predict which patients report inferior FAOS sport and recreation. The recovery of symmetry in heel-rise tests had no effect on 1-year FAOS sport and recreation. Patient-reported outcomes had a good-to-excellent explanatory capacity of superior and inferior 1-year function in sport and recreational activities (AUC = 0.87-0.93). BMI is a modifiable risk factor, which, when lowered, may be associated with less impairment in sports 1year after an Achilles tendon rupture. Females appear to perceive more limitations than males. Unexpectedly, smokers experience less limitations in foot and ankle function. Patients who report no functional limitation in sport are characterised by an overall perception of adequate foot, ankle and Achilles function, despite not having recovered symmetry in the heel-rise test. I.

Early Outcomes of Arthroscopic Modified Brostrom Operation for Chronic Ankle Instability

Category: Ankle, Arthroscopy Introduction/Purpose: The gold standard for the surgical treatment of chronic lateral ankle instability is the modified Brostrom procedure. Surgery aims to re-establish ankle stability and function, without compromising ankle motion. Recently introduced all inside arthroscopic modified Brostrom procedure coincide with the goal on that aspect. The purpose of this study was to investigate the early outcomes of all inside arthroscopic modified Brostrom operation for chronic ankle instability. Methods: From January 2015 to August 2016, 30 patients were included. The visual analog scale (VAS) score, American Orthopaedic Foot &amp; Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle–hindfoot score, Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS), and Karlsson score were used to evaluate clinical outcomes. Anterior talar translation and talar tilt were used to evaluate radiologic outcomes. All patients had lateral ankle instability. All patients had giving way, persistent pain, and an inability to resume their preinjury activity level for more than 6 months. Clinical outcome evaluations were performed preoperatively, at 3 months and 6 months postoperatively, and at a final follow-up using the VAS score, the AOFAS ankle-hindfoot score, FAOS, and Karlsson score. Radiologic outcome evaluations were performed preoperatively and at 1 year postoperatively at final follow-up using anterior talar translation, and talar tilt angle. Results: Thirty patients (19 males and 11 females) were followed up for a mean of 11.0 (range 4 – 23) months. The VAS, AOFAS, 1 FAOS subscale (Quality-of-life) and the Karlsson scores were improved significantly at the each follow-up period of 3 month, 6 month and 1 year postoperatively. Other 4 subscales of FAOS showed no significant outcomes (Table 1). The mean anterior talar translation and talar tilt showed significant improvements from 5.8 mm (SD = 0.4) and 7.9° (SD = 1.0) to 5.3 mm (SD = 0.3) and 5.7° (SD = 0.6) at the final follow-up each (p = 0.034, p=0.034). Conclusion: The arthroscopic modified Brostrom technique could be a viable alternative to the gold-standard open modified Brostrom procedure for anatomic repair of chronic lateral ankle instability. It can yield outstanding functional and clinical outcomes without adverse effects in terms of pain.

Hamstring Autograft for Foot and Ankle Applications

Category: Ankle, Sports Introduction/Purpose: Hamstring tendon autografts (gracilis and/or semitendinosus) may be used as an alternative to allograft or local tendon grafts in foot and ankle surgery, primarily for tendon or ligament repairs in which direct repair has failed or is not possible. Advantages of hamstring autografts include avoiding the expense and lower healing potential of allografts, as well as the morbidity associated with local tendon grafts. While hamstring harvest has been abundantly studied in the setting of concomitant knee surgeries, few authors have investigated its effects when used specifically for foot and ankle applications. We studied a cohort of patients who underwent hamstring harvest for foot and ankle applications, hypothesizing that morbidity to the knee would be limited and foot and ankle outcome scores would be good. Methods: All patients who underwent hamstring autograft for foot or ankle applications by a fellowship-trained sports surgeon since 2011 were screened for inclusion. Patients were eligible if they were over the age of 18, had no history of knee pathology, and were at least one year from surgery. 23 patients were enrolled an average of 23 months post-operatively (range, 12-59 months). The average age was 51 ± 18 (range, 18-77) and 50% were women. Isokinetic testing was performed using a Biodex dynamometer, with the administering physical therapist blinded to side of surgery. Peak flexion and extension torque as well as flexion and extension torque at 30, 70, and 90 degrees of flexion were collected at two different testing speeds, 180 and 300 degrees/second. Pre- and post-operative questionnaire scores—the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) and Short Form (SF)- 12—were retrospectively reviewed. T-tests were used for all comparisons. Results: Of the 23 patients enrolled, gracilis was harvested in 14, semitendinosus in six, and both tendons in three to reconstruct the lateral ankle ligaments (eight patients), tibialis anterior (six), Achilles (five), and peroneus brevis (four). At follow-up, 19 patients (83%) reported no pain at the harvest site; the remaining four patients reported mild to moderate symptoms. There were no significant differences between relative flexion strength at different degrees of flexion or between relative flexion and extension strength, with strength considered as a percentage of that of the non-operated leg (Table). All five FAOS subscales and the SF-12 physical component subscale improved significantly (p=0.01 for all). No patients were dissatisfied and all would recommend the surgery to someone else. Conclusion: When used for foot and ankle surgery, hamstring autografts result in good functional outcomes and high patient satisfaction, with few patients experiencing symptoms from the harvest site at follow-up. Although our study was limited by its small number of patients and lack of preoperative isokinetic testing for comparison, effects on knee flexion strength do not appear to be clinically significant. Further work with larger numbers of patients will be required to identify small effects on knee flexion strength and to delineate differences between harvesting gracilis and semitendinosus.

Can Generalized Ligamentous Laxity be an Obstacle to Perform Minimally Invasive Surgery for Moderate Hallux Valgus?

Category: Bunion Introduction/Purpose: Minimally invasive surgical techniques have challenged objectives in hallux valgus surgery, attempting to obtain good clinical outcomes with the least damage to anatomic structures, low complication rates, short time of surgery, cosmetic advantages and an earlier recovery. However, because patients with generalized ligamentous laxity have a major risk for recurrence, arthrodesis of the first tarsometatarsal (TMT) joint is an established method for the surgical treatment of the patients with generalized ligamentous laxity. This study aims to investigate the clinical and radiographic outcomes of joint-preserving minimally invasive distal metatarsal osteotomy in moderate hallux valgus patients with generalized ligamentous laxity. Methods: Thirty-two feet from 29 patients were involved prospectively with mean follow-up of 16.8 (range, 10 – 26) months. Generalized ligamentous laxity was assessed in all patients and the patients were divided into two groups (16: 16) with the result. Clinical outcomes were assessed using visual analogue scale (VAS), American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score and Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS). Radiographic parameters were evaluated by preoperative and postoperative weight bearing radiographs. Results: Mean tourniquet time was 30.4 (range, 19 – 44) minute and additional procedures were required in 6 cases in each group. The mean VAS (p&lt;0.001), AOFAS score (p&lt;0.001) and three FAOS subscales (Pain, Symptoms and Quality-of-Life) (p=0.003, p=0.002 and p&lt;0.001) improved significantly at the last follow-up. Significant corrections in the hallux valgus angle (HVA), intermetatarsal angle (IMA), distal metatarsal articular angle (DMAA) and sesamoid reduction were obtained at the last follow-up (p&lt;0.001). Relative first metatarsal length was decreased 2.8% from preoperative length (p&lt;0.001). No other radiographic outcomes showed significant difference between the 2 groups but the mean relative first metatarsal length was shorter in the group without generalized ligamentous laxity (p=0.014, respectively) at the last follow-up. Conclusion: Despite the patients without generalized ligamentous laxity tended to have shorter first metatarsal bone postoperatively, minimally invasive distal metatarsal osteotomy yielded substantial clinical and radiological results without any recurrence or fixation failure. This procedure can be a reasonable alternative to first TMT arthrodesis in patients with moderate hallux valgus even with generalized ligamentous laxity.

Validity and reliability of the Foot Function Index (FFI) questionnaire Brazilian-Portuguese version.

PurposeTo evaluate the validity and reliability of the Foot Function Index (FFI) in its Brazilian Portuguese version.MethodsThe validity and reliability of the FFI were tested in 50 volunteers, with plantar fasciitis, metatarsalgia and chronic ankle sprain. The FFI validity process used the Short Form-36 (SF-36) and Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) questionnaires. The correlation between FFI, SF-36 and FAOS was done using the Pearson’s linear coefficient. The inter and intra-evaluator reliability was ascertained by means of the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and the internal consistency by means of Cronbach’s alpha coefficient. The scores were used to assess the standard error measurement (SEM), minimal detectable change (MDC) and ceiling floor and effects.ResultsThe validity process showed that there were correlations between FFI and the “pain” and “social aspects” subscales of SF-36 and all subscales of FAOS, except for “other symptoms”. The Brazilian-Portuguese version of FFI showed excellent intra and interevaluator correlations, with an ICC range of 0.99–0.97 and score reliability that was considered highly satisfactory, with Cronbach’s alpha range of 0.80–0.61. The SEMs for inter and intra-evaluator reliability were 1.32 and 1.08, respectively. The MDC was 2.42 (90 % confidence interval). No ceiling and floor effect were detected.ConclusionsThe Brazilian-Portuguese version of the FFI questionnaire was found to be a valid and reliable instrument for foot function evaluation, and can be used both in scientific settings and in clinical practice.