Postoperative American Orthopaedic Foot And Ankle Society Score Research Articles

Surgical treatment for medium-sized cystic osteochondral lesions of the talus: Autologous osteoperiosteal transplantation provides better clinical outcomes than bone marrow stimulation when cysts are deeper than 6 mm.

To compare clinical outcomes of autologous osteoperiosteal transplantation versus bone marrow stimulation (BMS) for medium-sized (100-150 mm2) cystic osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLTs) and assess the correlation between patient demographics and outcomes. It was hypothesised that autologous osteoperiosteal transplantation would provide better clinical outcomes than BMS for medium-sized cystic OLTs. Patients who underwent autologous osteoperiosteal transplantation or BMS for medium-sized cystic OLTs between 2014 and 2019 were retrospectively evaluated. According to their characteristics, a 1:1 propensity-score matching was performed and 33 pairs of patients were matched. The visual analogue scale, American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score, Foot Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) and Ankle Activity Score were collected preoperatively and at the last follow-up. In addition, a general linear model analysis was performed between patient demographics and clinical outcomes in two groups separately to detect potential risk factors. Finally, 28 patients in the grafted group and 27 patients in the BMS group completed the follow-up and were enrolled with a mean follow-up period of 63.5 ± 13.9 months. Both groups showed significant improvement in all patient-reported outcomes (p < 0.01). At the final follow-up, no significant differences between groups were found in all postoperative scores except FAOS Pain (p = 0.02). Correlation analysis showed a moderate correlation between cyst depth and the postoperative AOFAS score in the BMS group (r = -0.48, p = 0.01). Based on the regression line, the patients in the BMS group with a cyst deeper than 6 mm showed a lower AOFAS score than the mean score (88.7 ± 9.5) of the grafted group. Autologous osteoperiosteal transplantation and BMS are both safe and effective for medium-sized cystic OLTs. However, autologous osteoperiosteal transplantation is expected to provide better clinical outcomes than BMS when the cysts are deeper than 6 mm. Level III.

The Comparison of the Results of Microfracture and Mosaicplasty in Talus Osteochondral Lesions.

This study aims to compare the mid-term functional outcomes of microfracture and mosaicplasty techniques in talus osteochondral lesions. This study consists of 47 patients with talus osteochondral lesions who underwent arthroscopic surgery. These patients were divided into two groups: microfracture (28 patients) and mosaicplasty (19 patients). The American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scoring system was used to evaluate ankle function, and the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score was used for pain assessment. The mean follow-up period was 26 months (range 10-36 months). It was determined that the mean preoperative AOFAS score of individuals in the mosaicplasty group was 38.84±2.83, and the postoperative AOFAS score was 78.79±3.91. A statistically significant difference was found between the two measurements of AOFAS scores (preoperative and postoperative) in the mosaicplasty group (*t=33.756; p<0.001). The effect size for this difference observed in the mosaicplasty group was determined to be r=0.992 (large). Similarly, a statistically significant difference was found between the two measurements of AOFAS scores (preoperative and postoperative) in the microfracture group (*t=28.152; p<0.001). The effect size for this difference observed in the microfracture group was determined to be r=0.983 (large). We believe that both treatment methods have similar positive effects on pain and ankle function. However, larger controlled studies with longer follow-up periods are needed to reach a definitive conclusion.

Clinical and Radiographic Outcomes of Supramalleolar Osteotomy for the Old Age Patients with Medial Compartment Ankle Osteoarthritis

Category: Ankle Arthritis Introduction/Purpose: Supramalleolar osteotomy (SMO) has recently been accepted as the major surgical option for treating painful asymmetric ankle arthritis. However, in many literatures, old age is regarded as relative contraindication for SMO. This study aimed to evaluate clinical and radiographic outcomes of medial compartment ankle osteoarthritis (OA) treated with SMO for the patients of relatively old age. Also, the study is aimed to compare the outcomes between old age group (≥ 65 years) and the group younger than 65 years. Methods: The study is based on consecutive 60 ankles of medial compartment ankle arthritis (60 patients) with moderate to severe medial ankle pain (at least 1-year follow-up). SMO and fibular valgization oblique osteotomy were performed. As for the functional evaluation, visual analogue scale (VAS) pain scores, American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle- hindfoot scores and ankle range of motion (ROM) were evaluated. On radiographs, tibial anterior surface angles (TAS), tibial lateral surface angles (TLS), and talar tilt angles (TT) were measured and the severity of ankle OA was classified by the Takakura stage. To evaluate how the age affects the outcomes of SMO procedures, the subjects were classified as two groups (Group 1: ≥ 65 years, 14 ankles, Group 2: &lt; 65 years, 46 ankles) and the comparison between the groups were made. Using second look arthroscopy, regeneration of articular cartilage was evaluated and compared between the groups. Results: The postoperative VAS pain score and ROM in group 1 were not inferior to those in group 2 (2.0 ± 2.0 vs 1.0 ± 1.4, p=0.949 / 50.7 ± 12.8 vs 52.0 ± 13.5, p=0.764). Also, the postoperative TLS angle and TT angle showed no significant difference between two groups. However, the postoperative AOFAS score was significantly higher in group 2 (79.0 ± 12.6 vs 88.0 ± 9.4, p&lt; 0.05). In terms of delayed union, there was no significant difference between two groups (3/14, 21.4% vs 9/46, 19.6%, p=0.818). As to complication rate, there was also no significant difference between two groups (1/14, 7.1% vs 6/46, 13.0%, p=0.899). There were no significant difference according to articular cartilage regeneration after SMO between two groups. Conclusion: SMO for the relatively older patients with painful medial compartment ankle OA achieved favorable clinical and radiological outcomes. In terms of osteotomy site union and complications, older age group (≥ 65 years) showed the results not inferior to those of younger age group ( &lt; 65 years). Even in the older age group, SMO could be one of the surgical options for the medial ankle OA.

The distance between the anterior and posterior edges of the fibula at a lateral internal rotation of 15° is associated with postoperative malreduction in patients with an ankle joint fracture combined with a lower tibiofibular syndesmosis injury.

Malreduction remains a problem in patients with an ankle joint fracture combined with a lower tibiofibular syndesmosis injury. Current methods of malreduction evaluation have many limitations, and novel techniques are required. The aim of the study was to investigate the association between the distance between the anterior and posterior edges of the fibula at a 15° lateral internal rotation and postoperative malreduction in patients with an ankle joint fracture combined with a lower tibiofibular syndesmosis injury. This prospective observational cohort study enrolled 187 patients diagnosed with an ankle joint fracture combined with a lower tibiofibular syndesmosis injury between January 2020 and January 2022. The patients were divided into 2 groups according to their postoperative malreduction condition: the malreduction group and the non-malreduction group. After tibiofibular syndesmosis reduction, a computed tomography (CT) scan was used to measure the distance between the anterior and posterior edges of the fibula at a standard lateral position and a position with a lateral internal rotation of 15°. Demographic data and basic clinical characteristics were recorded for all patients. The mean distance between the anterior and posterior edges of the fibula was longer in malreduction patients than non-malreduction patients at the standard lateral and 15° lateral internal rotation positions. At a lateral internal rotation of 15°, the distance between the anterior and posterior edges correlated negatively with the postoperative Mazur and American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scores, and correlated positively with the length of hospitalization and fracture healing time. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves revealed the potential postoperative malreduction diagnostic value of fibular anterior-posterior edge distance using an internal rotation of 15°. Postoperative AOFAS score, length of hospitalization, fracture healing time, and the distance between the anterior and posterior edges of the fibula at a lateral internal rotation of 15° were independent risk factors of malreduction. The fibular anterior-posterior edge distance at an internal rotation of 15° is associated with postoperative ankle joint function and the occurrence of malreduction.

Evaluation of the functional outcome following endoscopic decompression of retrocalcaneal bursitis

&lt;b&gt;Introduction:&lt;/b&gt; Retro calcaneal bursitis is an inflammation of the bursa located between the posterior surface of the heel bone and the anterior surface of the Achilles tendon. This study was conducted to evaluate the clinical efficacy of endoscopic decompression and debridement in patients with retrocalcaneal bursitis who had not responded to conservative treatment. Our primary objective was to estimate the improvement in American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score after surgery, and our secondary objectives were to estimate the average surgical duration and the incidence of post-operative complications.&lt;br /&gt; &lt;b&gt;Material and methods:&lt;/b&gt; This was a single-centre intervention study at a tertiary institution's level. Included in the study were all patients who were diagnosed with retrocalcaneal bursitis and who had failed a minimum 6-month trial of conservative treatment. 36 patients (36 heels) underwent endoscopic decompression.&lt;br /&gt; &lt;b&gt;Results:&lt;/b&gt; A prospective interventional cohort study was conducted on a total of 36 adult patients (18-70 years) with clinical and radiological findings suggestive of retrocalcaneal bursitis, duration of failed conservative treatment prior to surgery &amp;gt; 6 months, and refractoriness to other forms of non-operative treatment like steroid injections regardless of duration. There were no patients lost to follow-up. The mean duration of follow-up was 6 months [6 months to 2 years]. The average pre-operative AOFAS score was 56.42 6.8, ranging from 44 to 70. The difference between preoperative and postoperative AOFAS scores at 1 week, 2 weeks, 4 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months was statistically significant (p 0.0001).&lt;br /&gt; &lt;b&gt;Conclusion:&lt;/b&gt; In patients with retrocalcaneal bursitis, arthroscopic decompression is a safe, effective, and simple procedure. Within the first three months, the majority of study participants experienced pain relief and a significant improvement in function.

Treatment of Sanders typeⅡto Ⅲ calcaneal fractures with percutaneous reduction and minimally invasive calcaneal screw fixation

To investigate clinical effect of percutaneous reduction combined with internal fixation of calcaneal nail in treating Sanders typeⅡto Ⅲ calcaneal fractures. From July 2017 to August 2019, clinical data of 98 patients with Sanders typeⅡto Ⅲ calcaneal fractures treated were retrospectively analyzed, and divided into observation group and control group according to different surgical methods. In observation group, there were 35 males and 21 females, aged from 23 to 58 years old with an average of (34.50±7.81) years old;29 patients with Sanders typeⅡand 27 patients with Sanders type Ⅲ;30 patients on the left side and 26 patients on the right side;the time from fracture to operation ranged from 1 to 4 days with an average of (3.45±0.54) days;and treated with percutaneous reduction combined with internal fixation of calcaneal nail system. In control group, there were 25 males and 17 females, aged from 25 to 60 years old with an average of (35.27±7.64) years old;23 patients with Sanders type Ⅱ and 19 patients with Sanders type Ⅲ;24 patients on the left side and 18 patients on the right side;the time from fracture to operation ranged from 2 to 5 days with an average of (3.42±0.62) days;and treated with open reduction and internal fixation. Operation time, blood loss, hospital stay, fracture healing time, and postoperative visual analogue scale (VAS) at 1 day, preoperative and postoperative American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot score, Böhler angle, Gissane angle and calcaneus width, and postoperative complications were compared between two groups. All patients were followed up from 13 to 18 months with an average of (15.6±2.2) months. There were significant differences in operation time, blood loss, hospital stay, fracture healing time and postoperative VAS at 1 day between two groups (P<0.05). There was statistical difference in postoperative AOFAS score at 12 months between two groups (P<0.05), and AOFAS score at 12 months after operation was higher than that before operation (P<0.05). According to AOFAS score, 21 patients got excellent result, 30 good and 5 moderate in observation group, and 10 excellent, 22 good, 7 moderate and 3 poor in control group, which had statistical difference between two groups (P<0.05). Postoperative Böhler angle, Gissane angle and calcaneus width at 6 months were better than that before operation between two groups(P<0.05). One patient in observation and 20 patients in control group occurred skin numbness after operation, and 14 patients occurred skin necrosis in control group, there were obvious difference between two groups(P<0.01). Compared with open reduction and internal fixation, percutaneous reduction combined with internal fixation system in treating Sanders typeⅡto Ⅲ calcaneal fractures is feasible for fracture repair without waiting for foot deswelling, which could accurately restore normal shape and position of the fractured heel bone, completely eliminate fracture malunion, and reduce postoperative complications. Therefore, it could shorten operation time, hospital stay, fracture healing time, reduce amount of blood loss, promote postoperative recovery, and less complications, high safety, which could be used as a choice of orthopedic surgery for foot and ankle trauma.

Hybrid-Total Ankle Arthroplasty (H-TAA) for Failed Talar Component in Mobile-Bearing Total Ankle Arthroplasty.

Revision Total Ankle Arthroplasty (TAA) surgery due to TAA aseptic loosening is increasing. It is possible to exchange the talar component and inlay to another system for isolated talar component loosening in a primary mobile-bearing TAA: Hybrid-Total Ankle Arthroplasty (H-TAA). The purpose of this study was to analyze the results of the revision surgery of an isolated aseptic talar component loosening in a mobile-bearing three-component TAA with a H-TAA solution. In this prospective case study, nine patients (six women, three men; mean age 59.8 years; range 41-80 years) with symptomatic isolated aseptic loosening of the talar component of a mobile-bearing TAA were treated with an isolated talar component and inlay substitution. In all nine cases, a hybrid TAA revision surgery was performed by implanting a VANTAGE TAA talar and insert component (Flatcut talar component: six cases, standard talar component: three cases). The patients were reviewed with the pain score (VAS Pain Score 0-10), Dorsiflexion/Plantarflexion (DF/PF) Range of Motion (ROM; degrees), the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle/Hindfoot Score (0-100 points), Sports Frequency Score (Level 0-4), and subjective Patients' Satisfaction Score (0-10 points). The average Pain score improved significantly from preoperative 6.7 points to postoperative 1.1 points (p < 0.001). Average Dorsiflexion/Plantarflexion ROM values increased significantly post-surgery: 21.7° preoperative to 45.6° postoperative (p < 0.001). The postoperative AOFAS scores were significantly greater than the preoperative values: 47.7 points preoperative, 92.3 points postoperative (p < 0.001). The sports activity improved from preoperative to postoperative where, preoperative, none of the patients were able to perform sports. Postoperative, eight patients were able to be sports-active again. The overall average postoperative level of sports activity was 1.4. The postoperative average patient's satisfaction was 9.3 points. In painful talar component aseptic loosening of a three-component mobile-bearing TAA, H-TAA is a good surgical solution for reducing pain, restoring ankle function, and improving patients' life quality.

Comparison of arthroscopic debridement and microfracture in the treatment of osteochondral lesion of talus.

This study was performed to compare the clinical effect of arthroscopic debridement vs. arthroscopic microfracture in the treatment of osteochondral lesions of the talus. We retrospectively reviewed patients with osteochondral lesion of talus who were admitted to our hospital from April 2020 to April 2021. The patients were divided into Group A (arthroscopic debridement group, n = 39) and Group B (arthroscopic microfracture group, n = 42), and the intraoperative details in the two groups were analyzed. The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score and visual analogue scale (VAS) score were compared between the two groups before surgery and at the last follow-up. The postoperative AOFAS score (Group A, 40.9-82.26; Group B, 38.12-87.38), VAS score (Group A, 6.44-3.92; Group B, 6.38-2.05) significantly improved in both groups, but the improvement was significantly greater in Group B than in Group A (P < 0.05). Among all patients, the AOFAS and VAS scores of men aged ≤30 years and patients with a low body mass index (BMI) improved more significantly (P < 0.05). The arthroscopic microfracture for the treatment of osteochondral lesion of talus is superior to joint debridement in terms of improving ankle function, especially in relatively young men with a relatively low BMI.

Combination of the Ilizarov Method and Intramedullary Fixation for the Treatment of Congenital Pseudarthrosis of the Tibia in Children: A Retrospective Observational Study

PurposeCongenital pseudoarthrosis of the tibia (CPT) is a rare disease in children, and its treatment remains a challenge for orthopedic surgeons. The purpose of this study was to evaluate treatment outcomes of patients with CPT treated by using the Ilizarov method combined with intramedullary fixation.MethodEighteen patients evaluated retrospectively from January 2009 to January 2020 were treated using the Ilizarov method combined with intramedullary fixation. Demographic data, clinical characteristics, and complications were all recorded and investigated during the period of follow-up. Ankle function was evaluated by the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot scores at the last follow-up.ResultThe average follow-up was 39.2 months (25–85 months) for all 18 patients. The mean age was 6.2 years (3.5–11.2 years). Fourteen (77.8%) patients had a primary bone union at the site of pseudarthrosis, while four obtained union after secondary surgical intervention. The mean duration of the Ilizarov method was 8.1 months (4.2–13.5 months). Eight (44.4%) patients had a pin-tract infection during treatment. Four (22.2%) patients had proximal tibial valgus with a mean angle of 12.1° (5–25°), while seven (38.9%) patients had ankle valgus deformities with a mean of 10.3° (5–20°). Eleven (61.1%) patients had an average 1.4 cm of limb length discrepancy (LLD) (0.6–3.1 cm) postoperatively. Five (27.8%) patients had refracture and recovered after a secondary surgery. At the last follow-up, the average postoperative AOFAS score was 72 (55–84).ConclusionThe Ilizarov method combined with intramedullary fixation is an effective method for the treatment of CPT, which can facilitate bony union and help to prevent refracture. Management of fibular pseudarthrosis is associated with functional outcomes. It is necessary to follow up until skeletal maturity and evaluate long-term clinical outcomes.

Treatment of chronic lateral ankle instability by double-band anatomical reconstruction of the anterior talofibular ligament's fibular enthesis.

Anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) injury is one of the most common injuries in sports medicine, resulting in chronic lateral ankle instability (CLAI). The patients' daily life may be seriously affected by ankle osteoarthritis and other irreversible damages, if the ATFL injury is not treated in time and drags on. Patients with ATFL injury who show no significant recovery after 3-6 months of conservative treatment should consider surgical treatment as soon as possible to restore ankle stability and function. This study aims to investigate the effect of double-bands anatomical reconstruction of the ATFL's fibular enthesis for the treatment of CLAI. A retrospective review was conducted on 67 patients diagnosed with CLAI in the Department of Sports Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University from January 2015 to January 2018, including 42 males and 25 females, aged from 17 to 41 years old, with disease course of (12.6±3.2) months. Of the 67 patients, 29 left ankles and 38 right ankles were included in this study. Patients suffered from repeated sprains which leaded to pain, swelling and obvious ankle relaxation. There were obvious tenderness at the ATFL insertion and the calcaneal fibular ligament insertion. Both the anterior ankle drawer test and the varus stress test were positive. Other ankle disorders were excluded by X-ray. Preoperative color Doppler ultrasonography and magnetic resonance examination were performed to observe ATFL injury. All the patients had surgical indications and no obvious contraindications, and they were treated with arthroscopic debridement and double-bundle anatomical reconstruction of the AFTL's fibular enthesis under anesthesia. Postoperative routine nursing and standardized rehabilitation exercise were recommended. Outpatient follow-up was conducted at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months postoperatively. American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scores, Karlsson Ankle Functional (KAF) score, and the Japanese Society for Surgery of the Foot (JSSF) scale were used to evaluate the clinical outcomes. Intraoperative arthroscopic examination of 67 patients showed inflammatory synovial hyperplasia in 52 cases (77.6%), obvious osteophyte hyperplasia in 12 cases (17.9%), talus osteochondral injury of grade II-III in 23 cases (34.3%), and cartilage injury of grade IV in 5 cases (7.5%). All operations were carried out successfully, and both the anterior ankle drawer test and the varus stress test were negative under anesthesia after surgery. The anchors were in good position. Among them, 3 patients (4.5%) got temporary superficial peroneal nerve palsy and skin numbness at ankle joint after surgery, which gradually recovered within 2 weeks. There were no serious perioperative complications such as infection and suppurative arthritis. Postoperative follow-up was conducted for 12-24 (15.64±3.17) months. At the last follow-up, all patients were walking normally. Most patients had no pain or occasionally mild pain. Ankle function and motion were restored without re-instability. Sixty-four patients (95.5%) worked and exercised as before the surgery. Standing X-ray examination indicated normal joint space without stenosis, and the internal fixation was in good position. Postoperative AOFAS scores (94.78±6.37) were significantly better than the preoperative scores (64.17±12.43, P<0.01). Besides, the KAF scores and the JSSF ankle/hindfoot scale before surgery were significantly increased (KAF: 91.04±11.36 vs 59.74±13.63, P<0.01; JSSF: 95.32±10.21 vs 66.92±14.38, P<0.01). Arthroscopic debridement and double-bands anatomical reconstruction of the ATFL's fibular enthesis for the treatment of CLAI gains beneficial short-term effects for its minimal invasion and quick recovery.

Operation-effect analysis of 21 patients with ankle fracture and complete rupture of deltoid ligament

To explore short-term clinical effect of surgical treatment for ankle fracture with complete rupture of deltoid ligament in young and middle-aged patients. From January 2016 to March 2019, 21 young and middle-aged patients with ankle joint fracture and complete rupture of the deltoid ligament were treated with internal fixation and repair of the medial deltoid ligament, including 16 males and 5 females, aged from 21 to 52 years old with an average of (38.6±7.3) years old, the time from injury to operation ranged from 1 to 7 days with an average of (3.8±1.5) days. Fracture healing time and complications were observed, changes of medial malleolus clearance before and after operation were compared, American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score wasused to evaluate function of ankle joint at 18 months after operation. Twenty-one patients were followed up from 18 to 26 months with an average of (21.7±1.2) months. The incisions were healed at stageⅠ, and fracture healing time ranged from 8 to 12 weeks with an average of (9.5±1.6) weeks. No wound infection, failure of internal fixation, and nerve injury occurred. Medial malleoius space decreased from (5.83±0.32) mm before operation to (2.69±0.25) mm after operation. Postoperative AOFAS score at 18 months was 91.43±4.14, 14 patients got excellent results, 6 good and 1 fair. On the basis of stable fixation of fracture, repair of deltoid ligament could help restoring the medial anatomy of ankle joint in young and middle-aged patients, and could achieve good short term clinical effect.

Effectiveness of double metatarsal osteotomy for severe hallux valgus with increased distal metatarsal articular angle

To summarize the technique and effectiveness of double metatarsal osteotomy for treating severe hallux valgus with increased distal metatarsal articular angle (DMAA). Between June 2014 and December 2017, 64 patients (94 feet) of severe hallux valgus with an increased DMAA were treated with the double metatarsal osteotomy (distal metatarsal Reverdin osteotomy+proximal metatarsal open wedge osteotomy) combined with Akin osteotomy and soft tissue surgery to correct the deformity. There were 10 males (15 feet) and 54 females (79 feet) with an average age of 44.5 years (range, 26-66 years), including 34 of unilateral foot and 30 of bilateral feet. The Maryland metatarsophalangeal joint score of the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) was 54.3±7.4 and the visual analogue scale (VAS) score was 6.0±2.0. The pre- and post-operative AOFAS score, VAS score, DMAA, hallux valgus angle (HVA), first-second intermetatarsal angle (1-2IMA), and the first metatarsal length (FML) were recorded and compared. All incisions healed by first intention. All patients were followed up 12-15 months, with an average of 13.2 months. The complications occurred in 4 feet, including 1 foot of hallux stiffness, 1 foot of numbness at the edge of the wound, 1 foot of metastatic metatarsalgia, and 1 foot of metatarsal bone necrosis. At 1 year after operation, the Maryland metatarsal joint score of AOFAS was 89.2±7.4, showing significant difference compared with preoperative score ( t=18.427, P=0.000); and the effectiveness was rated as excellent in 78 feet, good in 12 feet, poor in 3 feet, and bad in 1 foot, with an excellent and good rate of 95.7%. The VAS score was 1.5±2.0, showing significant difference compared with the preoperative score ( t=10.238, P=0.000). The X-ray films showed that the osteotomies achieved bony healing at 3 months after operation. There were significant differences ( P<0.05) in HVA, 1-2IMA, and DMAA between preoperation and 6 months and 1 year after operation; but no significant difference was found in FML between preoperation and 1 year after operation ( t=0.136, P=0.863). For the patients with severe hallux valgus with increased DMAA, the double metatarsal osteotomy can significantly relieve the clinical symptoms and improve the imaging parameters with less postoperative complications.

TL 18168 - Effect of obesity on the functional outcome of flexor hallucis longus tendon transfer surgery in patients with Achilles tendinopathy

Introduction: Several factors, including diabetes and smoking, increase the risk of and predisposition for complications of foot and ankle surgeries; however, studies assessing the effects of obesity remain scarce. The objective of this study is to assess the effects of obesity on functional outcomes of flexor hallucis longus (FLH) tendon transfer surgery in patients with chronic Achilles tendinopathy. Methods: A retrospective study was performed with patients aged 18 years or older who underwent FHL tendon transfer between March 2010 and May 2015. The characteristics recorded were sex, age, body mass index (BMI), American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score, Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) and ankle plantar flexion and dorsiflexion strength, assessed using an isokinetic dynamometer. Results: The sample had 24 participants (13 women and 11 men) with a mean age of 55.7 years; among them, 13 were obese (BMI&gt;=30), and 11 were nonobese (BMI&lt;30). After a mean follow-up time of 66 months, the FAOS of the sample increased from 28 to 91 points (p=0.000). No significant difference in the postoperative AOFAS score or FAOS was found between the subgroups (p&gt;0.05), with values of 83 and 86.7 points (AOFAS) and 92.72 and 90 points (FAOS) for obese and nonobese patients, respectively. The comparison of the strength of each motion revealed no significant difference (p&gt;0.05) between subgroups. There was no association between BMI and postoperative functional outcomes (AOFAS score and FAOS) (p&gt;0.05) or correlation between BMI and the strength of the operated ankles. Conclusion: Our findings indicate that flexor hallucis longus tendon transfer surgery in Achilles tendinopathy is effective for obese and nonobese patients based on the AOFAS and FAOS scores and dynamometry results.

Can radiology reflect patient satisfaction after hallux valgus surgery?

This study aims to define the first web space length (FWSL) as a new radiologic parameter, which may reflect patients' subjective satisfaction and be associated with American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score as an objective parameter. One hundred and fourteen patients (11 males, 103 females; mean age 43.4±13.2 years; range, 18 to 70 years) who underwent distal osteotomy between April 2010 and January 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were radiographically evaluated with pre- and postoperative standing foot anteroposterior and lateral X-rays. Hallux valgus angles (HVAs), intermetatarsal angle (IMA), and FWSL were measured. AOFAS scores were used for clinical evaluation. Satisfaction scores were obtained using a visual analog scale at the final follow-up. The relationship between postoperative AOFAS score changes and postoperative HVA changes was statistically significant (p=0.001, p<0.1). The relationship between postoperative AOFAS values and postoperative FWSL changes was statistically significant (p<0.001, p<0.1). No statistically significant relationship was detected between postoperative AOFAS values and IMA changes (p=0.101, p>0.05). The relationship between AOFAS scores and satisfaction scale was statistically significant (r=0.695; p<0.001, p<0.01). The relationship between the satisfaction scale and FWSL was statistically significant (p=0.005, p<0.01). The FWSL has an influence on patient satisfaction. It is correlated both with AOFAS scores and satisfaction scale. It can be used as a measurable parameter to detect patient satisfaction.

Operative treatment of Sneppen V talus fracture through approach for malleolus medialis V osteotomy plus hollow compression screw fixation

Objective To report the effects of operative treatment of Sneppen Ⅴ talus fracture through the approach for malleolus medialis Ⅴ osteotomy plus hollow compression screw fixation. Methods From January 2015 to January 2019, 16 patients with Sneppen Ⅴ talus fracture were treated at Department Ⅱ of Hand & Foot Microsurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital to Inner Mongolia Medical University. They were 14 men and 2 women with a mean age of 38.4 years (range, from 20 to 55 years). All fractures were fixed with hollow compression screws through the approach for malleolus medialis Ⅴ osteotomy. The ankle and hindfoot functional scoring system developed by American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) was used to evaluate the clinical outcomes. Results All patients were followed up for a mean time of 12.6 months (range, from 6 to 30 months). The mean operation time was 68.4 minutes (range, from 52 to 96 minutes); the mean amount of hemorrhage during operation was 96.8 mL (range, from 48 to 122 mL); the mean period of bone union was 4.8 months (range, from 3 to 8 months). The postoperative mean AOFAS score was 75.3 points (range, from 43 to 91 points). Complications occurred in 4 cases, including one case of talus ischemic necrosis, one case of partial talus ischemic necrosis accompanied by tibial arthritis, one case of subtalar arthritis, and one case of combined tibial, talar and subtalar arthritis. All incisions obtained primary healing, with no complications like infection, screw breakage, delayed union or nonunion. Conclusion Operative treatment of Sneppen Ⅴ talus fracture through the approach for malleolus medialis Ⅴ osteotomy plus hollow compression screw fixation can provide sufficient operative exposure to facilitate reduction and fixation of the talus fracture so that the ischemic necrosis of the talus and traumatic arthritis can be effectively reduced. Key words: Talus; Fractures, bone; Fracture fixation, internal; Bone nails; Malleolus medialis osteotomy

Should We Use Intermetatarsal Angle as Primary Determinant to Define the Limits of Distal Chevron Osteotomy?

Classic treatment algorithms limit the use of distal chevron osteotomy (DCO) to cases with an intermetatarsal angle (IMA) <14°. As the IMA increases, it is accepted that the contact between the metatarsal head and shaft will be insufficient. We have investigated the reliability of IMA to predict contact area percentage after DCO. Preoperative radiographs of patients with hallux valgus were subdivided as mild, moderate, and severe using traditional algorithms. After excluding the mild cases, we randomly selected 100 patients (50 moderate and 50 severe) and calculated the estimated bony contact (EBC) with our method and investigated the percentage of patients who could have >50% contact area if we perform a DCO. Thirty of 50 (60%) and 17 of 50 (34%) patients had >50% EBC in moderate and severe groups, respectively. We performed DCO for 24 patients (14 moderate and 10 severe cases). The 100-point American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hallux-metatarso-phalangeal-interphalangeal scale was used to assess the clinical outcome. For the moderate group, we calculated mean IMA 16° (standard deviation [SD] ± 1.4°) and mean EBC 66.9% (SD ± 10.8%). For the severe group, we calculated mean IMA 20.9° (SD ± 0.7°) and mean EBC 63.1% (SD ± 10.4%). Paired t tests showed significant improvement comparing preoperative and postoperative AOFAS scores, IMA, hallux valgus angle, and sesamoid position for all operated patients (p < .001). We did not see any recurrence of hallux valgus or hallux varus and had only 1 minor complication that we managed conservatively. IMA may not always be a reliable parameter to predict the stability of DCO. Because the stability depends on the contact surfaces of osteotomy fragments, metatarsal head diameter and remaining bone contact should be the primary concerns. Two patients with the same IMA can have a different contact surface varying on a broad spectrum.

Alteration of Hindfoot Axis After Total Knee Arthroplasty

BackgroundIt has been shown that total knee arthroplasty (TKA) can correct the alignment of the lower limb, not only correcting the knee axis, but also affecting the alignment of the hindfoot. However, there is still not a significant amount of work in the literature. MethodsA prospective study was carried out in which 72 patients were radiographically (long axial view of the hindfoot) and clinically (American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle-Hindfoot Scale) evaluated before and 3 months after TKA. We investigated whether there were any significant associations between measurements of the axes, hindfoot angle, and AOFAS score with the type of deviation of the patient’s axis. ResultsFor the subgroups “hindfoot valgus-knee valgus,” “hindfoot valgus-knee varus,” and “hindfoot varus-knee valgus,” a reduction in angle after surgery was observed; for the cases “hindfoot varus-knee varus,” an increase in angle after surgery was observed. However, the Wilcoxon test showed that only the changes in the hindfoot axis of the “hindfoot varus-knee valgus” subgroup are statistically significant (P < .05). After surgery, the Wilcoxon test showed that the AOFAS score changes are statistically significant for all subgroups for which it was possible to perform the test (P < .05). ConclusionTKA promotes changes in the postoperative hindfoot axis, significantly in patients with knee valgus and hindfoot varus. In addition, TKA provides significant improvement in the postoperative AOFAS score. Level of EvidenceIIB.

Tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis via lateral transfibular approach to treat tibiotalar and subtalar arthropathy

Objective To observe operative results of tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis (TTC) via lateral transfibular ap-proach in the treatment of severe ankle and subtalar diseases. Methods Eighteen patients treated with TTC via lateral transfibu-lar approach from January 2015 to December 2017 were retrospectively analyzed. There were 11 males and 7 females from 39 to 76 years old, with an average age of 53.4 years. Preoperative diagnoses included traumatic arthritis (3 cases), osteoarthritis (10 cas-es), talar necrosis (3 cases), failure of ankle fusion (1 case) and Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (1 case). Ankle and hindfoot deformi-ty included varus (10 cases), valgus (6 cases), equinus (1 case) and equinovarus (1 case). All cases were classified into stage-3 ar-thritis according to Morrey-Wiedeman classification. All patients sustained pain and stiffness in the ankle and hindfoot as well as walking dysfunction. Preoperative and 1 year postoperative visual analogue scale (VAS) and American Orthopaedic Foot and An-kle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot scale were collected. Postoperative joint fusion and complications were observed. Results Follow-up ranged from 12-47 months, averaging 25.4 months. Preoperative VAS scores were 6-9, averaging 7.1±1.0, while postop-erative VAS scores at 1 year follow-up were 0-2, averaging 0.9±0.8, which decreased significantly. Preoperative AOFAS scores were 24-59, averaging 40.6±11.5, while postoperative AOFAS scores at 1 year follow-up were 68-84, averaging 75.3±5.8, which increased significantly. 8 cases were good and 10 cases were fair according to AOFAS scores at 1 year follow-up. The excellent and good rate was 44.4% (8/18). All joints were fused successfully without implants loosening or breakage. All patients satisfied with operative results at 1 year follow-up. Lateral distal wound dehiscence happened in 1 case of traumatic arthritis and the wound was finally healed after debridement and vacuum assisted closure (VAC). Two cases of osteoarthritis presented with dorsal lateral foot numbness and became asymptomatic after neurotrophic medication. One case of osteoarthritis complained of discomfort in the lateral heel caused by implants prominence and implants were removed at 1 year after surgery. Postoperative complication rate was 22.2% (4/18) . Conclusion TTC via lateral transfibular approach with cannulated screws and locking plate system is safe and ef-fective. Joint fusion rate is high and complication rate is low. During operation, attention should be paid to restoring hindfoot align-ment, soft tissue balance, proper bone graft and joint compression. Key words: Subtalar joint; Arthrodesis; Arthritis

Outcomes of plantar fasciotomy to treat plantar fasciitis

Objective: This study sought to evaluate the effectiveness of a surgery (plantar fasciotomy) to treat plantar fasciitis using the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) questionnaire. Methods: Patients were retrospectively identified using their postoperative orthopedic (medical) records after receiving medial plantar fasciotomy for plantar fasciitis between 1997 and 2009. Results: A significant difference was observed between the pre- and postoperative AOFAS score; this result indicates that patient health improved after the fasciotomy to treat plantar fasciitis. Conclusions: A strength of this study was its long follow-up time of patients undergoing plantar fasciotomy to treat plantar fasciitis. This surgery is indicated for patients with chronic plantar fasciitis after 6 months without response to conservative treatment. Level of Evidence IV; Therapeutic Studies; Case Series.

Application of three-dimensional printing technology in treatment of internal or external ankle distal avulsed fracture

To explore the effectiveness and advantage of three-dimensional (3D) printing technology in treatment of internal or external ankle distal avulsed fracture. Between January 2015 and January 2017, 20 patients with distal avulsed fracture of internal or external ankle were treated with the 3D guidance of shape-blocking steel plate fixation (group A), and 18 patients were treated with traditional plaster external fixation (group B). There was no significant difference in gender, age, injury cause, disease duration, fracture side, and fracture type between 2 groups ( P>0.05). Recording the fracture healing rate, fracture healing time, the time of starting to ankle functional exercise, residual ankle pain, and evaluating ankle function recovery of both groups by the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score. All patients were followed up 8-24 months, with an average of 15.5 months. In group A: all incisions healed by first intention, the time of starting to ankle functional exercise was (14±3) days, fracture healing rate was 100%, and the fracture healing time was (10.15±2.00) weeks. At 6 months, the AOFAS score was 90.35±4.65. Among them, 13 patients were excellent and 7 patients were good. All patients had no post-operative incision infection, residual ankle pain, or dysfunction during the follow-up. In group B: the time of starting to ankle functional exercise was (40±10) days, the fracture healing rate was 94.44%, and the fracture healing time was (13.83±7.49) weeks. At 6 months, the AOFAS score was 79.28±34.28. Among them, 15 patients were good, 2 patients were medium, and 1 patient was poor. During the follow-up, 3 patients (16.67%) had pain of ankle joint with different degrees. There were significant differences in the postoperative fracture healing rate, fracture healing time, the time of starting to ankle functional exercise, and postoperative AOFAS score between 2 groups ( P<0.05). Application of 3D printing technology in treatment of internal or external ankle distal avulsed fracture is simple, safe, reliable, and effective. In particular, it is an ideal treatment for avulsed fracture.