Naviculocuboid Overlap Research Articles

Corrective Efficacy of Calcaneal Lengthening Osteotomy for Planovalgus Deformity in Cerebral Palsy Patients.

Introduction Planovalgus deformity is common in children with spastic cerebral palsy (CP), particularly spastic diplegia and spastic quadriplegia. It results from muscle imbalance over the immature foot skeleton, leading to hindfoot valgus, forefoot abduction, and joint subluxation. Surgical interventions, like calcaneal lengthening osteotomy (CLO), are frequently employed to correct this deformity, but objective guidelines for its use in CP patients are lacking. Material and methods This retrospective cohort study examined the efficacy of CLO in correcting plano valgus deformity in pediatric CP patients at the Pediatric Orthopedic Unit of Christian Medical College (CMC) in Vellore, India. Data from patient records and radiographs were collected, including demographics, pre- and postoperative angles, and surgical details. Statistical analysis was performed to assess changes in angles and associations with various factors. Results After the surgery, there was a notable enhancement in the calcaneal pitch, lateral talo-first metatarsal angle, and naviculocuboid overlap, as shown by the CLO results. However, tibiocalcaneal angles did not show significant changes. Associations were observed between age, Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) level, additional surgeries, and postoperative angle corrections. Conclusion CLO shows promise in correcting plano valgus deformity, with age, GMFCS level, and comorbidities influencing outcomes. Long-term follow-up is crucial to monitor correction durability. Specific radiographic angles provide insights into CLO's biomechanical effects, but study limitations warrant caution in interpretation. CLO effectively corrects plano valgus deformity in pediatric CP patients, with age, GMFCS level, and comorbidities influencing outcomes. Long-term follow-up and further research are needed to optimize management strategies and enhance understanding of surgical outcomes.

Effect of flatfoot correction on the ankle joint following lateral column lengthening: A radiographic evaluation.

The effects of foot deformities and corrections on the ankle joint without osteoarthritis has received little attention. This study aimed to investigate the effect of flatfoot correction on the ankle joint of patients without osteoarthritis. Thirty-five patients (24 men and 11 women; mean age 17.5 years) who underwent lateral column lengthening for flatfoot deformities were included. The mean postoperative follow-up period was 20.5 months (standard deviation [SD]: 15.7 months). Radiographic indices were measured pre- and postoperatively, including anteroposterior (AP) and lateral talo-first metatarsal angles, naviculocuboid overlap, position of the articulating talar surface, and lateral talar center migration. Postoperative changes in the radiographic indices were statistically analyzed. There was significant postoperative improvement in flatfoot deformity in terms of AP and lateral talo-first metatarsal angles (p<0.001 and p<0.001, respectively) and naviculocuboid overlap (p<0.001). On lateral radiographs, the talar articulating surface dorsiflexed by 7.3% (p<0.001), and the center of the talar body shifted anteriorly by 0.85 mm (p<0.001) postoperatively. Flatfoot correction using lateral column and Achilles tendon lengthening caused dorsiflexion and an anterior shift of the articular talar body in patients without osteoarthritis. Correction of flatfoot deformity might affect the articular contact area at the ankle joint. The biomechanical effects of this change need to be investigated further.

The Effect of Progressive Lateral Column Lengthening in a Novel Stage II-B Flatfoot Cadaveric Model Evaluated Using Software-Guided Radiographic Measurements of Foot Alignment.

This work used software-guided radiographic measurement to assess the effects of progressive lateral column lengthening (LCL) on restoring alignment in a novel cadaveric model of stage II-B flatfoot deformity. A stage II-B flatfoot was created in 8 cadaveric specimens by transecting the spring ligament complex, anterior deltoid, and interosseous talocalcaneal and cervical ligaments. Weightbearing computed tomographic (WBCT) scans were performed with specimens under 450 N of compressive load in the intact, flat, and 6-, 8-, and 10-mm lateral column-lengthening conditions. Custom software-guided radiographic measurements of the lateral talo-first metatarsal (Meary) angle, anteroposterior talo-first metatarsal angle, naviculocuneiform overlap, and 2 new measures (plantar fascia [PF] distance and angle) were recorded on digitally reconstructed radiographs. Four anonymized analysts performed measurements twice. Intra- and interobserver agreement was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). Six-millimeter LCL restored alignment closest to the intact foot in this new cadaveric model, whereas 10-mm lengthening tended toward overcorrection. The PF line displaced laterally in the flatfoot condition, and LCL restored the PF line to a location beneath the talonavicular joint. Interobserver agreement was excellent for PF distance (ICC = 0.99) and naviculocuboid overlap (ICC = 0.91), good for Meary angle (ICC = 0.81) and PF angle (ICC = 0.69), and acceptable for the talonavicular coverage angle (ICC = 0.65). In this stage II-B cadaveric flatfoot model, cervical ligament transection was essential to create deformity after the medial hindfoot ligaments were transected. Software-guided radiographic measurement proved reliable; standardized implementation should improve comparability between studies of flatfoot deformity. The novel PF distance performed most consistently (ICC = 0.99) and warrants further study. With this model, we found that a 6-mm LCL restored alignment closest to the intact foot, whereas 10-mm lengthening tended toward overcorrection. Future joint-sparing flatfoot corrections may consider using a relatively small LCL combined with other bony and/or anatomic ligament/tendon reconstructions.

Relationship Between the of Type of Accessory Navicular Bone and Radiological Parameters of the Foot.

In this study, we evaluated to the relationship between the type of accessory navicular bone (ANB) and radiological parameters of foot in patients with bilateral ANB of different types. Patients with bilateral ANB of different types participated in this study, from May 2019 to April 2020. Patient data, including age, sex, body mass index (BMI), and presence of symptoms were obtained. We aimed to compare the radiological parameters of both the feet for evaluate the differences from one another in patients with bilateral ANB of different types (one side type 1 and contralateral side type 2) because the foot angles may differ in each person. Seven radiographic parameters were measured, including calcaneal pitch angle, talocalcaneal angle, tibiocalcaneal angle, naviculocuboid overlap, talonavicular coverage angle, anteroposterior talo-first metatarsal angle, and the lateral talo-first metatarsal angle, which evaluated hindfoot, midfoot, and forefoot alignment. Twenty patients (13 women and 7 men) with a mean age (and standard deviation) of 38.5 {plus minus} 12.3 years were included in the study. The patients had a mean height of 168.1 {plus minus} 7.1 cm, a mean weight of 77.2 {plus minus} 10.5 kg, and a mean BMI of 27.4 {plus minus} 4.3 kg/m2. There was no significant difference between type 1 and type 2 in all radiological parameters. There was no significant correlation between radiological parameters and age, BMI, or the presence of symptoms. We found that the type of ANB had no effect on the radiological measurements of the foot in which we evaluate the parameters patients with bilateral ANB of different types. Additionally, age, BMI, and the presence of symptoms, also demonstrated no correlation with the radiological parameters of the foot.

Radiographic differences in the concomitant deformities in two types of medial ankle osteoarthritis.

ObjectivesMotion preserving surgeries could be unsuccessful because of underestimation of deformities of the foot and knee in ankle osteoarthritis. This study aimed to investigate the concomitant deformities in medial ankle osteoarthritis and the difference between the two types, varus angulation and medial translation.MethodsA retrospective study was conducted using medical records and radiographic data. Patients with medial ankle osteoarthritis that underwent weight-bearing X ray imaging and radiographic measurements including tibial plafond inclination (TPI), tibiotalar tilt angle (TT), lateral talo-first metatarsal angle, naviculo-cuboid overlap, and mechanical tibiofemoral angle (mTFA) were studied. The patients were categorized into two groups, the varus angulation group (TT ≥4°) and medial translation group (TT <4°). The radiographic measurements were compared between the two groups.ResultsA total of 102 patients (male = 44; female = 58) were included; the mean age was 64.9 years (SD 8.3 years). The varus rotation group (N = 66) showed a significantly smaller lateral talo-first metatarsal angle (p<0.001), naviculo-cuboid overlap (p<0.001), and mTFA (p = 0.019) compared to the medial displacement group (N = 36). The TT showed a significant correlation with lateral talo-first metatarsal angle (r = -0.520, p<0.001), naviculo-cuboid overlap (r = -0.501, p<0.001), and mTFA (r = -0.243, p = 0.014). Lateral talo-first metatarsal angle was found to be the significant factor (p = 0.018) discriminating varus angulation and medial translation types in the binary logistic analysis.ConclusionsVarus angulation of the ankle was correlated with knee alignment and foot deformity. Radiographic indices were different between the varus angulation and medial translation groups. The role of concomitant deformities needs to be further investigated in terms of a causal relationship. Surgeons need to pay attention to concomitant deformities in the treatment of medial ankle osteoarthritis.

Effect of Unilateral Accessory Navicular Bone on Radiologic Parameters of Foot

This study aimed to compare the radiologic parameters of both feet in patients with unilateral accessory navicular bone (ANB) and evaluate the differences from one another. Forty-one patients with unilateral ANB volunteered to participate in this study from August 2019 to January 2020. Patient data, including age, sex, body mass index (BMI), type of ANB, and presence of symptoms were obtained. Group 1 comprised 23 patients with asymptomatic unilateral ANB, and group 2 comprised 18 patients with symptomatic unilateral ANB. Seven radiologic parameters were evaluated assessing hindfoot, midfoot, and forefoot alignment-calcaneal pitch angle, talocalcaneal angle, tibiocalcaneal angle, naviculocuboid overlap (NCO), talonavicular coverage angle (TNCA), anteroposterior talo-first metatarsal angle, and lateral talo-first metatarsal angle. The mean age of patients was 40.1 years in group 1 and 42.6 years in group 2. Mean BMI was 25.2 in group 1 and 26.6 in group 2. No significant differences were noted in the radiologic parameters between the ANB and contralateral sides in all patients. The radiologic parameters of both feet in symptomatic and asymptomatic patients were not significantly different. No significant differences were noted between the affected sides of type 1 and 2 ANB and contralateral sides in terms of the radiologic parameters. BMI was significantly correlated with NCO and TNCA. This study demonstrated that the presence of an accessory navicular bone did not affect radiologic parameters of the foot. Radiologic parameters of both feet in symptomatic patients were not significantly different. Level III, diagnostic, comparative study.

Radiographic Union of Evans Osteotomy Without Fixation

Category:Hindfoot; OtherIntroduction/Purpose:The Evans osteotomy is a lateral column lengthening procedure of the calcaneus that is commonly used to correct flexible flatfoot deformities. There is no consensus on whether fixation is needed to avoid nonunion and calcaneocuboid subluxation when performing this osteotomy. We assessed the nonunion rate and correlated extent of subluxation with graft size in an unfixed Evans osteotomy with an allograft wedge and no pinning of the calcaneocuboid joint at any point in the largest series of the procedure to date. Surgeries were performed in patients undergoing flexible flatfoot reconstruction.Methods:We retrospectively reviewed 120 consecutive patients who had undergone 145 unfixed Evans osteotomies by a single surgeon with allogenic bone graft for flatfoot reconstruction between January 2013 and October 2017, with a mean follow-up of 62.5 (range 9.4-266.7) weeks. The calcaneocuboid joint was not pinned during the procedure. Data were collected using clinical and radiographical examination during regular follow-up.Results:A total of 137 feet (94.5%) underwent a double calcaneal osteotomy with an associated medial displacement calcaneal osteotomy (MDCO). There was one nonunion (0.69%). The mean time to union was 10.8 (range, 6.7-17.9) weeks. There was significant improvement in all radiographic parameters postoperatively, including calcaneal pitch, talonavicular uncoverage, anteroposterior and lateral talo-first metatarsal angle, lateral column length, and naviculocuboid overlap (p<0.05). Minor postoperative calcaneocuboid joint subluxation (1.51 +- 2.3 mm) occurred in 72 of 118 feet (61.0%) and had no correlation with wedge size (r=0.06; 95% CI, -0.13, 0.24; p=0.6).Conclusion:An unfixed Evans osteotomy for symptomatic flatfoot deformity resulted in a significant improvement in the radiographic alignment of the foot with an exceptionally rare nonunion rate. Detectable calcaneocuboid subluxation was common but minimal in extent and was not correlated with wedge size in this series in which wedges were less than 12 mm in the maximum dimension. This report represents the largest series of the Evans procedure to date.

Discrepancy between true ankle dorsiflexion and gait kinematics and its association with severity of planovalgus foot deformity

BackgroundIn planovalgus deformity with triceps contracture, a midfoot break happens, and ankle dorsiflexion (ADF) occurs at the mid-tarsal joint during gait. Results of standard 3D gait analysis may misinterpret the true ankle dorsiflexion because it recognizes the entire foot as a single rigid segment. We performed this study to investigate whether the severity of planovalgus deformity is associated with the discrepancy between the value of ADF evaluated by physical examination and 3-dimensional (3D) gait analysis. In addition, we aimed to identify the radiographic parameters associated with this discrepancy and their relationships.MethodsConsecutive 40 patients with 65 limbs (mean age, 11.7 ± 5.5 years) with planovalgus foot deformity and triceps surae contracture were included. All patients underwent 3D gait analysis, and weightbearing anteroposterior (AP) and lateral (LAT) foot radiographs. ADF with knee extension was measured using a goniometer with the patient’s foot in an inverted position.ResultsTwenty-one limbs underwent operation for planovalgus foot deformity, and 56 limbs underwent operation for equinus deformity. The difference between ADF on physical examination and ADF at initial contact on gait analysis was 17.5 ± 8.4°. Differences between ADF on physical examination and ADF at initial contact on gait analysis were significantly associated with the LAT talus-first metatarsal angle (p = 0.008) and calcaneal pitch angle (p = 0.006), but not associated with the AP talus-first metatarsal angle (p = 0.113), talonavicular coverage angle (p = 0.190), talocalcaneal angle (p = 0.946), and naviculocuboid overlap (p = 0.136).ConclusionThe discrepancy between ADF on physical examination and 3D gait analysis was associated with the severity of planovalgus deformity, which was evaluated on weightbearing LAT foot radiographs. Therefore, physicians should be cautious about interpreting results from 3D gait analysis and perform a careful physical examination to assess the degree of equinus deformity in patients with planovalgus foot deformity.

Radiographic and Functional Results following Subtalar Arthroereisis in Pediatric Flexible Flatfoot.

Introduction Flexible flatfoot (FFF) is one of the most common skeletal disorders in children. In symptomatic patients who do not respond to conservative measures, surgery may be an option. Subtalar arthroereisis consists of limiting excessive eversion of the subtalar joint through different types of implants. Materials and Methods We carried out a retrospective study of 16 patients (32 feet) intervened for FFF with a subtalar device (arthroereisis), across the period of 2008-2015 with a minimum follow-up period of one year. Pre- and postoperative measures of the Moreau-Costa-Bartani angle, dorsoplantar (DP) and lateral (L) talocalcaneal angle, talonavicular coverage angle, and naviculocuboid overlap were used to evaluate correction of the deformity. Two expert surgeons from the Pediatric Orthopedics Unit took separate measurements of these angles for subsequent analysis purposes and to obtain the interobserver correlation coefficient for quantitative variables. Pre- and postoperative differences in the measurement of angles were ascertained using Student's t-test for paired samples; and a functional evaluation of the patients intervened was carried out pre- and postoperatively by administering the parent version of the Oxford Ankle Foot Questionnaire for Children (OxAFQ-C) during a clinical interview. All statistical analyses were performed using the SPSS v. 19.0 program (SPSS, Chicago, IL), with values being deemed statistically significant at p<0.05. Results A breakdown of the study population showed 81.25% (13 patients) males and 18.75% (3 patients) females, with mean age of 9 years (7-11). The interobserver coefficient for quantitative variables displayed a very high degree of concordance (0.7-0.9), indicating that the validity of the measures was adequate. Pre- and postoperative analysis of differences in the measurement of angles was statistically significant (p<0.005). In terms of functional evaluation, the postoperative results were positive, with statistical significance for the “school and play”, “emotional”, and “footwear” domains of the OxAFQ-C scale and no differences in the “physical” domain. Conclusion Subtalar arthroereisis is a valid option for the treatment of symptomatic pediatric flatfoot, with good postoperative functional and radiographic results.

Sex Differences in Pedobarographic Findings and Relationship between Radiographic and Pedobarographic Measurements in Young Healthy Adults.

BackgroundAlthough pedobarographic measurement is increasingly used for clinical and research purposes, relatively few published studies have investigated normative data. This study examined pedobarographic findings in young healthy adults with regard to sex-related differences and correlations among measurement indices.MethodsTwenty young healthy adults (mean age, 22.4 years; standard deviation, 1.2 years; and 10 males and 10 females) were included. Weight bearing anteroposterior (AP) and lateral foot radiographs were taken, and dynamic pedobarographic data during treadmill walking and maximum ankle dorsiflexion were obtained. AP talo-first metatarsal angle, naviculocuboid overlap, lateral talo-first metatarsal angle, and plantar soft tissue thickness were measured on foot radiographs. Pedobarographic data including peak pressure and pressure-time integral were measured on five plantar segments: medial forefoot (MFF), lateral forefoot (LFF), medial midfoot (MMF), lateral midfoot (LMF), and heel.ResultsMale and female subjects significantly differed in body mass index (BMI, p < 0.001), AP talo-first metatarsal angle (p = 0.018), soft tissue thickness under the metatarsal head (p = 0.040) and calcaneal tuberosity (p < 0.001), maximum dorsiflexion during stance phase (p = 0.041), peak pressure on the MFF (p = 0.005) and LFF (p = 0.004), and pressure-time integral on the MFF (p = 0.018) and heel (p = 0.001). BMI was significantly correlated with soft tissue thickness under the metatarsal head (r = 0.521, p = 0.018) and calcaneal tuberosity (r = 0.585, p = 0.007), peak pressure on the MFF (r = 0.601, p = 0.005) and LFF (r = 0.487, p = 0.029), pressure-time integral on the heel (r = 0.552, p = 0.012), and total pressure-time integral (r = 0.755, p < 0.001). Maximum dorsiflexion demonstrated significant negative correlations with pressure-time integral on the MFF (r = −0.595, p = 0.007) and total pressure-time integral (r = −0.492, p = 0.032). Pressure-time integral varus/valgus index was significantly correlated with pressuretime integral forefoot/heel index (r = 0.472, p = 0.036).ConclusionsSex-related differences in pedobarographic examination were observed, which could provide useful information in setting appropriate treatment goals and obtaining appropriate control data. The effects of subtalar motion in distributing plantar pressure should be investigated in a future study.

Sex differences in pedobarographic findings and relationship between radiograph and pedobarograph measurements in young healthy adults

Category: Basic Sciences/Biologics Introduction/Purpose: Although pedobarographic measurement is increasingly used for clinical and research purposes, relatively few published studies have investigated normative data. This study examined pedobarographic findings in young healthy adults with regard to sex-related differences and correlations among measurement indices. Methods: Twenty young healthy adults (mean age 22.4 years, SD 1.2 years; 10 males and 10 females) were included. Weightbearing anteroposterior and lateral foot radiographs were taken, and dynamic pedobarographic data during treadmill walking and maximum ankle dorsiflexion were obtained. AP talo-first metatarsal angle, naviculocuboid overlap, lateral talo-first metatarsal angle, and plantar soft tissue thickness were measured on foot radiographs. Pedobarographic data including peak pressure and pressure-time integral were measured on five plantar segments: medial forefoot (MFF), lateral forefoot (LFF), medial midfoot (MMF), lateral midfoot (LMF), and heel. Results: Male and female subjects significantly differed in BMI (p&lt;0.001), AP talo-first metatarsal angle (p=0.018), soft tissue thickness under the metatarsal head (p=0.04) and calcaneal tuberosity (p&lt;0.001), maximum dorsiflexion during stance phase (p=0.041), peak pressure on the MFF (p=0.005) and LFF (p=0.004), and pressure-time integral on the MFF (p=0.018) and heel (p=0.001). Maximum dorsiflexion demonstrated significant negative correlations with pressure-time integral on the MFF (r=-0.595, p=0.007) and total pressure-time integral (r=-0.492, p=0.032). Pressure-time integral varus/valgus index was significantly correlated with pressure-time integral forefoot/heel index (r=0.472, p=0.036). Conclusion: Sex-related differences in pedobarographic examination were observed. Achilles stretching exercise was considered to reduce foot pressures, and subtalar joint was hypothesized to play an important role in pressure distribution.

Influence of Hindfoot Malalignment on Hallux Valgus Operative Outcomes.

Hindfoot deformity has been described as a risk factor for poor hallux valgus (HV) surgery outcomes. However, there has been no study that demonstrates it. The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the influence of hindfoot misalignment in HV surgery results. All patients operated on for HV during 2010 and 2011 at 3 university hospitals were included. The preoperative and 2-year postoperative radiologic data included the HV and the intermetatarsal (IM) angles, the naviculocuboid overlap (NC), the talonavicular coverage (TN) angle, the talus-first metatarsal (T-1MT) angle, as well as the calcaneal pitch (CP) angle. Additionally, the Short Form-36 questionnaire version 2.0 (SF-36) and the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) score, satisfaction and recurrence were also analyzed. A total of 207 met the inclusion criteria. There were 26 patients (12.6%) who could not be assessed at the 2-year follow-up. Patients were allocated to a varus, normal, or a valgus hindfoot tertile using the values for the CP, NC, TN, and T-1MT angles. No significant differences (P > .05) were found between the groups when the HV or IM angles, AOFAS, SF-36 Mental Composite Scale, SF-36 Physical Composite Scale, or satisfaction were compared. Similarly, no significant and strong correlations were observed (P > .05, ρ < 0.3) between any of the mentioned hindfoot measures and the outcomes scales. No influence of hindfoot misalignment on HV surgery outcomes was found in the present study in terms of correction, pain, function, satisfaction, or quality of life. Patients with hindfoot misalignment did not obtain worse outcomes in HV surgery. Level II, prognostic, comparative study.

Clinical usefulness of hindfoot assessment for total knee arthroplasty: persistent post-operative hindfoot pain and alignment in pre-existing severe knee deformity.

The purpose of this study was to compare the hindfoot alignment and symptoms in patients with pre-existing moderate and severe knee deformities after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Eighty knees of 75 patients who underwent TKA for varus osteoarthritis were enrolled retrospectively and evaluated the following pre-operatively and at 2years post-operatively: the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society ankle-hindfoot scale (pain and function scores), calcaneal pitch, and naviculocuboid overlap as an indicator of hindfoot alignment. The knees were divided into two groups according to the pre-operative hip-knee-ankle angle defined as the angle between the mechanical axis of the femur and the tibia: group M with genu varus of ≤6°, and group S with varus >6°. The pain (p=0.03) and function (p=0.02) scores improved in group M; however, in group S, these measures did not change. The differences between the groups were not significant concerning the pre-operative calcaneal pitch and naviculocuboid overlap. The post-operative pitch (p=0.03) and the overlap (p=0.04) in group M was significantly greater and less than those in group S, respectively. Although the pitch (p<0.01) and the overlap (p=0.03) increased in group M, these did not change in group S. Post-operative hindfoot pain and valgus remained in patients in group S. For pre-existing moderate knee deformities, a relationship was observed between post-operative knee alignment and compensatory hindfoot alignment, whereas patients with severe deformities experienced persistent post-operative hindfoot pain and valgus alignment. It was concluded that evaluations and managements of residual symptoms after TKA including the hindfoot are important. These findings are clinically relevant that perioperative evaluation of the hindfoot should be required in knee surgery. To help improve the outcomes of TKA, clinicians may consider perioperative intervention in the insole and/or physical therapy of the foot and ankle. Therapeutic study, Level III.

Stepwise surgical approach to equinocavovarus in patients with cerebral palsy.

This study investigated the radiologic results of a stepwise surgical approach to equinocavovarus in 24 patients with cerebral palsy and determined the extent to which each procedure affected radiographic parameters using a linear mixed model. The anteroposterior talus-first metatarsal and anteroposterior talonavicular coverage angles were improved. The calcaneal pitch angle, tibiocalcaneal angle, lateral talus-first metatarsal angle, and naviculocuboid overlap were also improved. The Dwyer sliding osteotomy affected the tibiocalcaneal angle, whereas first metatarsal dorsal wedge osteotomy improved the calcaneal pitch angle and lateral first metatarsal angle. The stepwise surgical approach is effective for correction of equinocavovarus in cerebral palsy patients.

The Relationship Between Accessory Navicular and Flat Foot: A Radiologic Study.

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between accessory navicular (AN) and flat foot and to evaluate the association between flat foot and the symptoms of patients with AN. We enrolled 196 patients with painful or asymptomatic AN in this study. Patients who were older than 18 years or who had no weight-bearing radiographs of the feet were not included. Another 46 normal participants were used as a control group. The AN group was divided into 3 subgroups: a group with asymptomatic AN; a symptomatic group that had not undergone excision; and a symptomatic group that had undergone surgery. Seven radiographic indices were measured including calcaneal pitch angle, tibiocalcaneal angle, talocalcaneal angle, naviculocuboid overlap, talonavicular coverage angle, lateral talo-first metatarsal angle, and AP talo-first metatarsal angle. Groups were compared regarding age, sex, presence of pain at the time of surgery, and radiographic parameters. The calcaneal pitch angle in the AN group was significantly smaller than that of controls (P=0.004). Naviculocuboid overlap (P=0.001), talonavicular coverage angle (P<0.001), lateral talo-first metatarsal angle (P=0.014), and AP talo-first metatarsal angle (P<0.001) were significantly larger in the AN group than in controls. No significant radiologic differences were seen between patients with symptomatic and asymptomatic AN. No significant radiographic differences were found between the groups of patients who had and who had not had bone excised. AN associated with radiographic parameters felt to be representative of a flat foot; however, the degree of flat foot was not associated with the development and severity of symptoms in patients with AN.

Concomitant calcaneo-cuboid-cuneiform osteotomies and the modified Kidner procedure for severe flatfoot associated with symptomatic accessory navicular in children and adolescents.

BackgroundAccessory navicular can become symptomatic in childhood, and in some cases, the condition is associated with progressive flattening of the longitudinal arch. Moreover, some severe, rigid flatfoot deformities are associated with an accessory navicular. We investigated the results of concomitant calcaneo-cuboid-cuneiform osteotomies (triple C) and the modified Kidner procedure for severe flatfoot associated with a symptomatic accessory navicular in children and adolescents.MethodsTwenty-one feet of 13 patients (nine boys, four girls; mean age 12.7 years) with severe flatfoot associated with a symptomatic accessory navicular who were treated with concomitant triple C and the modified Kidner procedure were evaluated based on clinical and radiographic examinations preoperatively and at a mean follow-up of 22.4 months (range, 12–36 months). We measured 12 variables on the anteroposterior (AP) and lateral weight-bearing radiographs, and we used the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS) score for clinical assessment.ResultsWe found significant improvements (p < 0.001) in eight of the 12 radiographic measurements: the AP talo-first metatarsal (MTT) angle, AP talo-navicular coverage angle, AP talo-calcaneal angle, lateral talo-first MTT angle, calcaneal pitch, lateral talo-calcaneal angle, lateral talo-horizontal angle, and naviculo-cuboid overlap. Average ACFAS scores were significantly improved at the time of the last follow-up (p < 0.001). The only complication was overcorrection of the hindfoot in one patient.ConclusionsConcomitant triple C and the modified Kidner procedure result in favorable radiographic and clinical outcomes in the treatment of severe flatfoot associated with a symptomatic accessory navicular in children and adolescents.

C sign

C sign is used to alert the physician of the possible presence of talocalcaneal coalition (TCC), so that advanced imaging can be ordered. The purpose of this study was to know the prevalence of the C sign among patients with TCC and its relationship to the presence of a TCC or to hindfoot alignment. Retrospective reviews of the presence of C sign in radiographs of 88 feet with TCC (proved by computed tomography scan or surgical findings) and 260 flexible flatfeet were conducted. C sign was classified as complete and interrupted (types A, B, and C). The interobserver variability of the C sign was studied. Seven radiographic parameters were measured to analyze the relationship of these measurements with the presence or absence of the C sign. C sign was present in 68 feet (77%) with TCC: 14.5% complete and 62.5% interrupted (26% type A, 19.5% type B, and 17% type C). C sign was present in 116 flatfeet (45%), all of them interrupted (0.4% type A, 5.5% type B, and 39% type C). The talo-first metatarsal angle, the talohorizontal angle, the calcaneal pitch, the calcaneo-fifth metatarsal angle, and the naviculocuboid overlap presented a more pathologic value when a C sign was present. The κ-value for the presence of a C sign was 0.663. The so-called true C sign (complete or interrupted type A) indicates the presence of a TCC and it is not related to flatfoot deformity. However, it is only present in 41% of the cases. The interrupted C sign is much more likely to be related to flatfoot deformity than to the presence of a TCC, specifically when a type C is found. Diagnostic Study level I.

Correlation between static radiographic measurements and intersegmental angular measurements during gait using a multisegment foot model.

Radiographic examination is a widely used evaluation method in the orthopedic clinic. However, conventional radiography alone does not reflect the dynamic changes between foot and ankle segments during gait. Multiple 3-dimensional multisegment foot models (3D MFMs) have been introduced to evaluate intersegmental motion of the foot. In this study, we evaluated the correlation between static radiographic indices and intersegmental foot motion indices. One hundred twenty-five females were tested. Static radiographs of full-leg and anteroposterior (AP) and lateral foot views were performed. For hindfoot evaluation, we measured the AP tibiotalar angle (TiTA), talar tilt (TT), calcaneal pitch, lateral tibiocalcaneal angle, and lateral talcocalcaneal angle. For the midfoot segment, naviculocuboid overlap and talonavicular coverage angle were calculated. AP and lateral talo-first metatarsal angles and metatarsal stacking angle (MSA) were measured to assess the forefoot. Hallux valgus angle (HVA) and hallux interphalangeal angle were measured. In gait analysis by 3D MFM, intersegmental angle (ISA) measurements of each segment (hallux, forefoot, hindfoot, arch) were recorded. ISAs at midstance phase were most highly correlated with radiography. Significant correlations were observed between ISA measurements using MFM and static radiographic measurements in the same segment. In the hindfoot, coronal plane ISA was correlated with AP TiTA (P < .001) and TT (P = .018). In the hallux, HVA was strongly correlated with transverse ISA of the hallux (P < .001). The segmental foot motion indices at midstance phase during gait measured by 3D MFM gait analysis were correlated with the conventional radiographic indices. The observed correlation between MFM measurements at midstance phase during gait and static radiographic measurements supports the fundamental basis for the use of MFM in analysis of dynamic motion of foot segment during gait.

How Reliable Are Standard Radiographic Measures of the Foot and Ankle in Children With Achondroplasia?

Radiographic measurements are typically used in achondroplasia (ACH) during correction of lower limb alignment. However, reliabilities for the measurements on weightbearing radiographs of the foot and ankle in patients with ACH have not been described, and the differences between the ACH population and subjects without ACH likewise have not been well characterized; these issues limit the use of studies on this subject. We proposed (1) to measure the inter- and intraobserver reliability of a number of radiographic measures of ankle and foot alignment in an achondroplastic cohort of patients; and (2) to compare our radiographic measurement values with age-matched literature-based normative values. Ten radiographic measurements were applied to foot and ankle radiographs of 20 children (40 feet) with ACH (mean age, 10 years; range, 8-16 years). Interobserver and intraobserver reliabilities of these radiographic measurement methods were obtained and expressed by intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). The mean values were calculated and compared with the literature-based values. The interobserver reliability was excellent for eight measurements with ICCs ranging from 0.801 to 0.962, except for lateral talo-first metatarsal angle and mediolateral column ratio, which were much lower. The intraobserver reliability was excellent for all 10 radiographic measurements with ICCs ranging from 0.812 to 0.998. Compared with existing literature-based values, all 10 measurements had a significant difference (p < 0.01). We suggest tibiotalar angle, calcaneal pitch angle, tibiocalcaneal angle, talocalcaneal angle, naviculocuboid overlap, talonavicular coverage angle, metatarsal stacking angle, and AP talo-first metatarsal angle with excellent interobserver and intraobserver reliabilities should be considered preferentially in analysis of foot and ankle alignment in children with ACH.

Calcaneal Lengthening for Planovalgus Foot Deformity in Patients With Cerebral Palsy

Calcaneal lengthening has been used to correct planovalgus foot deformities in patients with cerebral palsy (CP). This study was performed to investigate the amount of correction that can be achieved after calcaneal lengthening for the treatment of a planovalgus deformity in patients with CP and to provide cutoff values based on the preoperative radiographic measurements that suggest additional procedures to achieve satisfactory correction. Seventy-five consecutive patients with CP who underwent calcaneal lengthening for planovalgus deformity were included. Radiographic indices were measured on preoperative and latest followup weightbearing foot radiographs. The cutoff values of the preoperative radiographic measurements between the corrected and undercorrected groups were analyzed. The cutoff values are the reference values that can judge the possibilities of sufficient correction of a planovalgus deformity by calcaneal lengthening. The mean age of the patients at the time of surgery was 11.0 ± 5.2 years and the minimum followup was 1.0 years (mean, 3.1 ± 2.2 years; range, 1.0-8.4 years). AP talus-first metatarsal angle, calcaneal pitch angle, talocalcaneal angle, lateral talus-first metatarsal angle, and naviculocuboid overlap showed major improvements after calcaneal lengthening. The cutoff values of preoperative measurements between the corrected and undercorrected groups were 23° AP talus-first metatarsal angle, 36° lateral talus-first metatarsal angle, and 72% naviculocuboid overlap. Calcaneal lengthening with concomitant peroneus brevis lengthening is an effective procedure for correcting a planovalgus foot deformity in patients with CP. However, for patients with greater than 23° AP talus-first metatarsal angle, 36° lateral talus-first metatarsal angle, and 72% naviculocuboid overlap, additional procedures for medial stabilization, such as tibialis posterior tendon reefing and talonavicular arthrodesis, should be considered as a result of the possibility of undercorrection with calcaneal lengthening alone.