Ankle Society Hindfoot Research Articles

Acute Retrograde Tibiotalocalcaneal Nailing for Osteoporotic Ankle Fractures in Fragile Patients

Category:Ankle, TraumaIntroduction/Purpose:With the rising aging of the population, osteoporotic ankle fractures represent a frequent scenario in daily practice. The coexistence of comorbidities such as poorly controlled diabetes mellitus, vascular insufficiency, and poor condition of the surrounded soft tissues, means that conventional open reduction and internal fixation methods often fail. On the other hand, conservative or orthopaedic treatments in such population are badly tolerated. Our study aims to study the short- term outcome of retrograde tibiotalocalcaneal (TTC) nailing in a selected series of fragile patients.Methods:This study included 15 patients who underwent primary retrograde TTC nailing from January 2016 to July 2018. The mean age of the patients was 83,5 years (range, 75 to 88), and the mean follow-up period was 11,5 months (range, 6 to 24 months) with no patient lost to follow-up. All patients but one were diabetic; 2 were non-ambulatory; and 13 walked with walking aids. The authors implemented a primary nailing without addressing tibiotalar or subtalar joint and without using a tourniquet. Complete weight bearing was allowed early as tolerated. Alignment and healing of the fracture were evaluated. American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot score were recorded preoperatively and at the final follow-up.Results:One of the patients died 8 months after the treatment. Radiographic healing of the fractures were identified in 100% of the cases. In 2 cases, a complete arthrodesis of the ankle joint was achieved by simple nail reaming (Figure 1). No infection or any scarring problems was recorded. Of the 13 patients who walked with difficulty, 4 remained prostrate to a wheelchair, but the rest maintained their previous autonomy. The mean AOFAS score improved from 48 (range, 14 to 71) preoperatively to 71 (range, 44 to 81) postoperatively.Conclusion:In the view of these results, we suggest that primary retrograde TTC nailing is a valid option in selected patients with fragility ankle fractures, high comorbidity, poor condition of the soft tissues and with difficulties to walk before the fracture. This option allows an early full weight bearing, avoids complications due to joint off-loading, and achieves acceptable functional results.

Mid Term 5-Year Follow Up of a Novel Algorithm for Non-Operative Weber B Ankle Fractures

Category:Ankle, Ankle Arthritis, TraumaIntroduction/Purpose:It is important to understand which isolated fibular fractures require surgical intervention. Several different radiographic guidelines have been used to interpret and predict stability of the injured ankle. Holmes et al previously described a novel algorithm used to assess stability and the ability to treat the stable injuries non-operatively. The one year results demonstrated favorable outcomes of these non-operative patients, however there is a question about the durability of these results and whether these patients developed post-traumatic degenerative changes over mid to long term follow up.Methods:An observational study based on a previous cohort of 51 patients studied from 2010 to 2013 with isolated Weber B ankle fractures was performed. These were defined as stable at the time of injury when the medial clear space (MCS) was less than 7 mm on the initial gravity stress radiographs along with a normal mortise relationship on weight bearing radiographs. 27 patients that were treated non-surgically, were brought back for a mid-term follow up with a mean of 6.8 years. American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) Hindfoot scores, Olerud-Molander Ankle (OMA) Score, and visual analog scale (VAS) pain score were collected in accordance with the prior study. Patient Reported Outcome Measurement Information System (PROMIS) scores were also collected including lower extremity, physical function, depression, and pain interference. Standing bilateral ankle radiographs were obtained, and assessed for MCS widening, and ankle arthritis using the Kellgren-Lawrence grading scale.Results:Average functional score results were (in comparison to 1-year outcomes): AOFAS Hindfoot, 95.7 (93.2); OMA Score, 95.2 (91.0); and visual analog scale pain score, 0.24 (0.57). Using a Wilcox Signed Ranks Test, there was a statistically significant increase in 5-year AOFAS Hindfoot scores as compared to 1-year scores in those same patients (p=0.005) There was no evidence of significant post-traumatic osteoarthritis based on the Kellgren-Lawrence grading scale.Conclusion:The previously described, novel at the time, algorithm for assessing stability of isolated Weber B ankle fractures and nonsurgical treatment with protected weight bearing has shown to produce excellent results for mid-term follow up with an average of 6.8 years. Additionally, these patients are not at increased risk for rapid progression of post-traumatic osteoarthritis. This further supports initial weight bearing radiographs as a reasonable assessment of ankle stability and validates the aforementioned algorithm as a safe and cost-effective functional treatment regimen.

Limited Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of Calcaneal Fractures.

The treatment of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures remains a challenge and the optimal approach is still controversial. The main reason to avoid the extended lateral approach is the high complication rate due to wound healing problems. We report on 16 years of experience with a standardized limited open reduction and internal fixation technique. Between 2001 and 2017, we prospectively followed 240 consecutive patients operatively treated for a displaced intra-articular calcaneal fracture. Patients with open, multiple, bilateral, extra-articular, and Sanders IV fractures and those lost to follow-up were excluded. A lateral subtalar approach was used, with a cast for 8 weeks and full weightbearing allowed after 12 weeks. Follow-up examinations were scheduled until 24 months. Subjective and clinical assessment included gait abnormality, subtalar and ankle range of motion, and stability and alignment. The American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot score was calculated. Alignment was analyzed on standard radiographs. In total, 131 patients were excluded. The remaining 109 patients were followed for a minimum of 24 months (34.4 ± 14.2 [range, 24-102] months). The mean AOFAS score was 87 ± 13 (range, 32-100). "Excellent" and "good" results, as well as hindfoot motion with "normal/mild" and "moderate" restrictions, were seen in 80% of patients. Early reoperations were performed for insufficient reduction (2 patients), delayed wound healing (debridement, 3 patients), and hematoma (1 patient). Late revisions were arthrodesis (3 patients), medializing calcaneal osteotomy (1 patient), and implant removal (53 patients; 49%). The presented approach has remained unmodified for 16 years and resulted in consistently good functional results. The main disadvantage was the high rate of heel screw removal. Level IV, retrospective case series.

Mid-Term Results of Primary Repair and Plantaris Tendon Augmentation Technique in Neglected Achilles Tendon Rupture.

ABSTRACTAim: To assess clinical and functional outcomes of primary repair and plantaris tendon augmentation technique employed in neglected Achilles tendon rupture.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 20 patients underwent surgical treatment with primary repair and plantaris tendon augmentation technique for neglected Achilles tendon rupture between 2011 and 2014. At the last follow-up, the patients were clinically assessed by American Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot score, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score, calf circumference, single-limb heel rise test and range of motion in ankle. Results: Mean time from rupture to surgery was 7.8 weeks (range 4-16 weeks). The mean gap was 44 mm (range 30-75 mm). Mean postoperative follow-up period was 62 months (range 56-84 months). At the last follow-up, mean AOFAS score was 93.6 (range 82-100) while VAS score was found as zero in all patients. No significant difference was detected in mean calf circumference and plantar flexion and dorsiflexion range of ankle between involved site and contralateral intact site (p=0.40; p=0.59 and p=0.68, respectively). One patient suffered from superficial skin infection which was treated successfully with antimicrobial therapy. There were no cases of deep-vein thrombosis, skin necrosis, or re-rupture. Conclusion: In neglected Achilles tendon rupture, primary repair and plantaris augmentation technique is associated with successful clinical and functional outcomes at mid-term.

Minimally invasive single locking plate combined with multiple planar screw internal fixation for pilon fracture

Objective To investigate the clinical effect of minimally invasive single locking plate combined with multiplanar screw internal fixation on pilon fracture of distal tibia. Methods A retrospective case control study was conducted to analyze the clinical data of 51 patients with pilon fracture involving distal tibial articular surface admitted to 81th Group Military Hospital of the Army from January 2013 to August 2017. Among the patients, 20 patients including 15 males and five females, aged (37.5±9.9)years were treated with closed traction reduction or open joint reduction through minimally invasive incision and single main locking plate combined with multiplanar screw placement (study group). There were 13 patients with type II and seven patients with type III according to Ru edi-Allgwer classification of fracture. In addition, 31 patients were treated with open reduction and multi-plate internal fixation (control group), including 25 males and six females, aged (43.4±11.3) years. There were 20 patients with type II and 11 with type III according to Ru edi-Allgwer classification. The operation time, fracture healing time, postoperative complications were compared between the two groups. Burwell-Charnley imaging evaluation criteria were used to assess the quality of fracture reduction. At the last follow-up, ankle function was assessed by the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hind foot functional score. Results All 51 patients were followed up for 6-24 months, with an average of 16 months. The operation time was (82.5±19.2)minutes in the study group and (127.7±40.8)minutes in the control group (P 0.05). Local skin necrosis (not above the plate) occurred in two patients in the study group and in three patients in the control group, with the wounds being healed within 3 months after dressing change and vacuum sealing drainage (VSD). In the control group, one patient had severe infection and recovered after treatment of steel plate removal, debridement and irrigation, and external fixator fixation. Three patients in the control group had skin necrosis resulting in plate exposure, who received transferred skin flaps to cover the wound. The incidence of postoperative complications were 10% (2/20) and 23% in the study group and the control group, respectively (7/31)(P>0.05), with the incidence of severe complications for 0 and 13% (4/31)(P 0.05). At the last follow-up, AOFAS ankle-hind foot function scores were excellent in 12 patients, good in five patients, fair in two patients and poor in one patient in the study group with excellence rate of 85%, while the scores were excellent in 20 patients, good in six patients, fair in three patients and poor in two patients in the control group, with excellence rate of 84% (P>0.05). Conclusion For pilon fracture of distal tibia, both minimally invasive single locking plate combined with multi-plate screw internal fixation and open reduction combined with multi-plate internal fixation have good reduction effect and satisfactory recovery of ankle function, but the former can significantly shorten the operation time and reduce the incidence of serious complications after operation. Key words: Tibial fractures; Fracture fixation, internal; Pilon fractures

Analysis of clinical effect of mini-invasive knotless bridge-suture technique for acute achilles tendon rupture

Objective To investigate clinical effect of minimally invasive knotless bridge-suture technique for acute achilles tendon rupture. Methods The clinial data of 23 patients with acute achilles tendon rupture treated in Department of Orthopaedics, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People′s Hospital from August 2017 to February 2018 were analyzed retrospectively. There were 21 males and 2 females, aged (37.1±5.6) years, with an age range of 29-51 years. Minimally invasive knotless bridge-suture technique was performed in all cases until the soft tissue condition of the patients improved. Patients were followed up by outpatient review at 3 weeks, 6 weeks, 3rd, and 6th months postoperatively, followed by every 3 months, followed up 12 to 18 months, and the deadline was April 2019. Ratio of perimeter of the affected lower extremity to that of the uninjuried, number of repetitions for one leg calf rise in one minute, American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hind foot score, the achilles tendon total rupture score(ATRS) and time to return to work were investigated at last follow-up, as well as complications during the follow-up period. Results Twenty-three cases were followed up. At last follow-up, ratio of perimeter of the affected lower extremity to that of the uninjuried was (92.7±1.8)%, number of repetitions for one leg calf rise in one minute was (25±2) times, AOFAS ankle-hind foot score was (91.5±2.2) scores, ATRS was (92.6±2.4) scores, time to return to work ranged from 6 to 9 weeks. All patients underwent first-stage healing. No skin necrosis, superficial infection and sural nerve injury occurred. No achilles tendon re-rupture was seen during the follow-up period. Conclusion Minimally invasive knotless bridge-suture technique for acute achilles tendon rupture is applied easily and less invasive, enabling patients to return to work earlier and proved to be a secure and effective treatment. Key words: Achilles tendon; Suture technique; Rehabilitation; Knot

What Are the Important Risk Factors That Predispose a Patient to Infection After Total Ankle Arthroplasty (TAA)?

There is evidence indicating that the following risk factors may predispose a patient to an infection after a total ankle arthroplasty (TAA): inflammatory arthritis, prior ankle surgery, body mass index (BMI) <19, and peripheral vascular disease. Meanwhile, there is conflicting evidence (which may be due to patient selection bias) indicating that the following risk factors may predispose a patient to infection after a TAA: obesity (BMI >30), tobacco use, diabetes, duration of surgery, age <65 years, hypothyroidism, low preoperative American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot score, and chronic lung disease. Limited. Agree: 100%, Disagree: 0%, Abstain: 0% (Unanimous, Strongest Consensus).

A flexion osteotomy for correction of a distal tibial recurvatum deformity: a retrospective case series.

There is little information about how to manage patients with a recurvatum deformity of the distal tibia and osteoarthritis (OA) of the ankle. The aim of this study was to evaluate the functional and radiological outcome of addressing this deformity using a flexion osteotomy and to assess the progression of OA after this procedure. A total of 39 patients (12 women, 27 men; mean age 47 years (28 to 72)) with a distal tibial recurvatum deformity were treated with a flexion osteotomy, between 2010 and 2015. Nine patients (23%) subsequently required conversion to either a total ankle arthroplasty (seven) or an arthrodesis (two) after a mean of 21 months (9 to 36). A total of 30 patients (77%), with a mean follow-up of 30 months (24 to 76), remained for further evaluation. Functional outcome, sagittal ankle joint OA using a modified Kellgren and Lawrence Score, tibial lateral surface (TLS) angle, and talar offset ratio (TOR) were evaluated on pre- and postoperative weight-bearing radiographs. Postoperatively, the mean score for pain, using a visual analogue scale, decreased significantly from 4.3 to 2.5 points and the mean American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot score improved significantly from 59 to 75 points (both p < 0.001). The mean TLS angle increased significantly by 6.6°; the mean TOR decreased significantly by 0.24 (p < 0.001). Radiological evaluation showed an improvement or no progression of sagittal ankle joint OA in 32 ankles (82%), while seven ankles (18%) showed further progression. A flexion osteotomy effectively improved the congruency of the ankle joint. In 30 patients (77%), the joint could be saved, whereas in nine patients (23%), the treatment delayed a joint-sacrificing procedure. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2019;101-B:682-690.

Reduction and functional outcome of open reduction plate fixation versus minimally invasive reduction with percutaneous screw fixation for displaced calcaneus fracture: a retrospective study

BackgroundMinimally invasive surgery has become popular because of the lower incidence of wound complications. However, achieving an anatomic reduction that provides a satisfactory outcome is difficult using minimally invasive surgery. Our study aimed to evaluate the reduction and clinical outcomes of closed reduction and percutaneous fixation treatment using a closed reduction traction device for displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures compared with traditional open reduction plate fixation using an extended lateral approach.MethodsA total of 40 patients and 45 feet with calcaneus fractures from 2012 to 2016 were studied. The open reduction plate fixation group (24 feet) was compared to the closed reduction percutaneous fixation group (21 feet) with a traction device. The reduction assessments included length, width, height, Bohler’s angle, Gissane’s angle, and varus or valgus angle before and after surgery. The clinical outcomes included the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society hindfoot score and the visual analog score for pain, length of stay, and complication rate.ResultsThe patients were followed up for an average of 16.53 ± 3.95 months. No significant differences in reduction were observed between the open and closed groups (P > 0.05). The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society scores of the two groups were 80.29 ± 6.15 and 83.62 ± 6.95 (open versus closed) (P = 0.0957). The visual analog scores of the open and closed groups were 1.50 ± 1.22 and 0.81 ± 0.87 (P = 0.0364). The lengths of stay in the open and closed groups were 9.63 ± 2.72 days and 6.71 ± 1.85 days (P = 0.0002). The complication rates of the open and closed groups were 20.8% (5/24) and 4.8% (1/21) (P < 0.0001).ConclusionsThe closed reduction percutaneous fixation with traction device method may provide equivalent reduction results and superior outcomes for the length of stay, VAS score, and complication rate for displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures.

Metatarsophalangeal arthroscopy of the hallux

Objective: This study sought to describe a modified arthroscopic technique in which a traction device with a horizontal vector and nylon mesh are used to allow continuous and uniform distraction without requiring an assistant surgeon to perform manual traction. Methods: Nine patients (seven females and two males; mean age 31.8 [30-52] years) with an indication for treatment of this joint who had been diagnosed with different pathologies, including synovitis, hallux vagus, and hallux rigidus, were selected and underwent arthroscopy of the first metatarsophalangeal joint using this modified technique. Results: Patient evaluations determined using the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle-Hindfoot Scale were recorded before and after surgery. The mean scores before and after the procedure were 43.66 (32-55) and 95.22 (90-8), respectively. No scars or joint complications were observed at a six-month follow-up, and all subjects experienced rapid recovery and quickly returned to daily functions. Conclusion: Similarly to conventional arthroscopy of the metatarsophalangeal joint, the modified technique produced satisfactory surgical outcomes; moreover, this technique reduced surgical time and improved the surgeon’s autonomy by obviating the need for an assistant surgeon to perform traction. Level of Evidence IV; Therapeutic Studies; Case Series.

What is the Prognosis of Triple Arthrodesis in the Treatment of Adult Acquired Flatfoot Deformity (AAFD)?

Objective The present study aims to evaluate the ability of triple arthrodesis in eliminating the main complaints presented by patients with adult acquired flatfoot deformity (AAFD): 1) disabling hindfoot pain; 2) major deformities, such as medial arch collapse, valgus, abduction, and supination. Methods A total of 17 patients (20 feet) with advanced AAFD who underwent surgical correction by triple arthrodesis were evaluated after a mean follow-up period of 43 months (range: 18–84 months). The average age of the patients at surgery was 62 years old (range: 38–79 years old). The visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain and the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot score were used to assess the final results. Results According to the VAS, the average residual pain was 3 points; the AOFAS hindfoot score points increased 23% after the surgery; and the correction of deformities was considered satisfactory in 10 out of 20 feet; partially satisfactory in 4 out of 20 feet; partially unsatisfactory in 5 out of 20 feet; and unsatisfactory in 1 out of 20 feet. Conclusion Despite the high index of bone fusion after triple arthrodesis, which is the gold standard treatment in advanced AAFD, the incomplete correction of major deformities and the persistence of residual pain contributed to a high disappointment rate of the patients with the surgical results.

The treatment of pilon fractures with a single medial locking plate and lag screwsbased on computer-assisted pre-opera-tion plan

Objective evaluate the efficacy of a single medial locking plate and lag screws based on computer-assisted pre-operation plan (CAPP) for the treatment of pilon fractures. Methods Between 2013 and 2016, data of 27 patients with pilon fractures who were treated using a single medial locking and lag screws based on CAPP were retrospectively analyzed. All the cas-es were AO/OTA 43-C type pilon fractures. According to the Ruedi-Allgower classification, there were 5 cases of type Ⅱ and 22 cases of type Ⅲ. Among 27 patients, 19 patients had fibula fracture. CAPP was performed for all fractures, including simulated re-duction, virtual surgery, and implantation of internal fixation. The time of CAPP, intraoperative realization of preoperative plan, op-eration time, intraoperative blood loss, and pre- and post-operative range of motion of ankle were recorded. Functional outcomes at final follow up were assessed using American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle hindfoot scale, visual analogue scale (VAS). Results The mean time of CAPP was 25.8 minutes (range, 14-30 minutes). The average operating time was 138.5 minutes. The average intraoperative blood loss was 225.9 ml. All the twenty-seven patients were followed up for an average period of 18.6 months. The average AOFAS score, VAS score at the final follow-up was 82.9, 2.7 points respectively, which was signifi-cantly improved compared with those before operation (t=-19.358, 7.720; all P< 0.001). Conclusion CAPP system is convenient and efficient, which can facilitate the treatment of type C pilon fractures with a single medial locking plate and lag screws. In addi-tion, satisfactory clinical outcomes can be obtained. Key words: Tibial fractures; Fracture fixation, internal; Internal fixators; Computer-aided design; Imaging, three-dimen-sional

Autologous Blood-Derived Products Compared With Corticosteroids for Treatment of Plantar Fasciopathy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

This review article evaluated the efficacy of autologous blood-derived products, including whole blood and platelet-rich plasma, in reducing pain and improving function compared with corticosteroids for plantar fasciopathy patients. Literature comparing autologous blood-derived product and corticosteroids for the treatment of plantar fasciopathy was systematically reviewed. Twelve randomized controlled trials and four quasi-experimental studies were included. The visual analog scale pain score and American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society hindfoot score were evaluated at 1.5, 3, and 6 mos' follow-up. Subgroup analyses were performed concerning platelet-rich plasma preparation techniques, injection regiments, and study designs. Corticosteroids were found to reduce pain more effectively than whole blood at 1.5 and 3 mos, but the effect disappeared at 6 mos. Platelet-rich plasma reduced pain more effectively at 6 mos' postinjection than corticosteroids. However, there was no significant difference in the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society score between platelet-rich plasma and corticosteroids injections at any time point. In the subgroup analyses, pain was significantly reduced at 6 mos by self-prepared platelet-rich plasma, one-step separation platelet-rich plasma, platelet-rich plasma of more than 3 ml, and platelet-rich plasma without local analgesics. The results of this meta-analysis suggest that platelet-rich plasma may provide a long-term effect in relieving pain in plantar fasciopathy patients. Complete the self-assessment activity and evaluation online at http://www.physiatry.org/JournalCME CME OBJECTIVES: Upon completion of this article, the reader should be able to: (1) Compare the efficacy of whole blood (WB), platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and corticosteroid (CS) in short-term pain reduction in patients with plantar fasciopathy (PF); (2) Compare the efficacy of WB, PRP, and CS in long-term pain reduction in patients with PF; (3) Identify the potential complication of corticosteroid injection for plantar fasciopathy; and (4) Identify the components of whole blood that might influence the growth factors in healing process. Advanced ACCREDITATION: The Association of Academic Physiatrists is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians.The Association of Academic Physiatrists designates this Journal-based CME activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

Preliminary Outcomes of Calcaneal Lengthening in Adolescent Flatfoot in Müller-Weiss Disease.

Müller-Weiss disease (MWD) remains a controversial painful foot condition without consensus on its pathogenesis or a gold standard treatment modality. The aim of the study was to evaluate the outcomes of calcaneal lengthening in adolescent patients with symptomatic MWD with flatfoot. The study included 13 feet of 7 patients including 5 females and 2 males who were treated from March 2012 until June 2015 by calcaneal lengthening. The mean age was 15.6 years. The mean duration of symptoms was 13.5 months. The body mass index (BMI) averaged 28.9 kg/m2 at presentation. The patients were followed up for a mean of 37.8 months. The osteotomy healed in all cases after a mean of 7.2 weeks. The second foot was operated on after an average of 11.5 months. The mean talometatarsal-1 angle improved from 39.8 degrees preoperatively to 5.9 degrees. The mean preoperative calcaneal pitch angle of 7.5 degrees increased to an average of 17.8 degrees postoperatively. The mean American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle-Hindfoot Score was improved from 61.9 preoperatively to 94.2 postoperatively. Four patients had occasional exertional pain. Four feet had mild residual forefoot abduction. Arthrodesis was not needed in any case by the last follow-up. Early diagnosis of MWD with flatfoot was important and allowed for nonfusion treatment options. Calcaneal lengthening osteotomy in selected MWD cases achieved satisfactory outcomes with pain control, deformity correction, and improvement of the functional results. Level IV, retrospective case series.

Reconstruction of neglected Achilles tendon rupture: flexor hallucis longus transfer versus gastrocnemius turn-down flaps

Objective: To compare the outcome of either flexor hallucis longus transfer or turn-down of proximal Achilles tendon tissue repair in treating chronic Achilles tendon rupture. Methods: The clinical data of 21 patients who underwent repair of Myerson type Ⅲ chronic Achilles tendon rupture at Peking University Sports Medicine Research Institute from May 2012 to March 2015 were retrospectively analyzed. Among them, 11 cases were treated with flexor hallucis longus (FHL) transfer, and 10 cases were treated with gastrocnemius turn-down flaps repair. The American Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFOS) hindfoot score and Tegner motor function score before and after surgery were recorded and compared between the two groups. Data comparison between groups was performed with t test. Results: The patients in the both group were followed up for an average of (21±7) months. The postoperative AOFOS hindfoot score in the long flexor and gastrocnemius groups were both significantly higher than those before surgery, and the differences were statistically significant (97.7±2.6 vs 72.0±8.1 and 96.0±5.5 vs 78.5±6.4, t=10.70, 6.42, both P<0.05).The postoperative Tegner scores of the two groups were also significantly higher than those before surgery (4.2±1.4 vs 0.7±0.4 and 4.1±0.8 vs 0.6±0.5,t=7.29, 9.35, both P<0.05). There were no significant differences in postoperative AOFOS hindfoot scores and Tegner motor function scores between the two groups (both P>0.05). Conclusion: The flexor hallucis longus transfer and turn-down of proximal Achilles tendon tissue repair can both get satisfactory results in treating chronic Achilles tendon rupture.

Ankle fusion by Ilizarov external fixator

Introduction Arthrodesis is a salvage procedure for patients with a destroyed, painful ankle joint to restore pain-free ambulation. The paper aimed to evaluate the results of ankle arthrodesis using the Ilizarov external fixator to treat end-stage tibiotalar arthritis. Patients and methods This retrospective study included 20 patients who had been treated with ankle fusion by Ilizarov fixator performed from December 2007 to January 2014. Their mean age was 44.95 years. Eight patients were females. The underlying pathology was septic ankle destruction, post-traumatic osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Avascular necrosis of talus was present in three cases. Seventeen patients had previous surgical procedures with a mean of 2.15 surgeries. Five patients had a failed previous arthrodesis. Six patients had associated equinus deformity. The mean preoperative American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society Ankle-Hind foot score was 26. Results The mean follow-up period was 28.15 months. The mean external fixation period was 15.75 weeks. Sound fusion was achieved in all patients without additional operative procedures. Infection was controlled in all septic ankles. Pin-tract infections were observed in seven cases. In three cases, wires or half-pins needed to be removed. One ankle was fused in mild varus. One patient reported moderate daily diffuse pain. The mean postoperative American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society Ankle-Hind foot score was 75.45. Patients reported functional satisfaction with the results. Conclusions The use of the Ilizarov external fixator provides a successful salvage method that offers solid bony fusion, optimal alignment, and eradication of infection in complex ankle pathology or failed previous arthrodesis.

Acute management of complex tibial pilon fractures (AO/OTA 43-C)

Background In pilon fracture management, careful soft tissue handling is as relevant as the treatment of the bony injury itself. It is crucial to spare the extraosseous vessels during surgery as best as possible. Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis has attracted great interest in the management of distal tibia fractures and can be used as an alternative to staged approach. Patients and methods From January 2009 to December 2013, 32 pilon fractures (AO/OTA 43-C) in 30 patients were treated by acute minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis with distal tibia anatomical locked plates within an average 1.3 days of injury. The mean follow-up time was 30.8 months (24–48 months). Immediate postoperative reduction was assessed, and rating of the symptoms and functional abilities of each patient was done according to American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society ankle-hind foot score. Results Satisfactory immediate postoperative radiograph articular reduction was achieved in 90.9% (n=29) ankles. There is no statistically significant difference (P>0.05) between immediate postoperative reduction and reduction at the final follow-up. Bony union was achieved in all cases after an average of 4.6 months (3–8 months). The mean American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society ankle-hind foot score at final follow-up was 79. Excellent clinical result was achieved in 21 (65.6%) ankles, good in nine (28.1%) ankles, and poor in two (6.3%) ankles. Complications include one deep infection and two ankle arthrodesis. Conclusions Acute minimally invasive approach combined with locking plates for the treatment of complex pilon fractures decreases complications associated with disruption of the soft tissue envelope and associated osseous complications and allows quicker return to function. Level of evidence: Level IV, case series.

Survivorship and long-term outcome of a consecutive series of 200 Scandinavian Total Ankle Replacement (STAR) implants.

We report the long-term clinical and radiological outcomes of a consecutive series of 200 total ankle arthroplasties (TAAs, 184 patients) at a single centre using the Scandinavian Total Ankle Replacement (STAR) implants. Between November 1993 and February 2000, 200 consecutive STAR prostheses were implanted in 184 patients by a single surgeon. Demographic and clinical data were collected prospectively and the last available status was recorded for further survival analysis. All surviving patients underwent regular clinical and radiological review. Pain and function were assessed using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot scoring system. The principal endpoint of the study was failure of the implant requiring revision of one or all of the components. Kaplan-Meier survival curves were generated with 95% confidence intervals and the rate of failure calculated for each year. A total of 84 patients (87 ankles) were alive by the end of this study. Of the surviving 84 patients (87 ankles; rheumatoid arthritis (RA), n = 40; OA, n = 47), 45 were women and 39 were men, with a mean age of 54 years (18 to 72 years) at the time of surgery. A total of 32 implants failed (16%), requiring revision surgery. The mean time to revision was 80 months (2 to 257). The implant survival at 15.8 years, using revision as an endpoint, was 76.16% (95% confidence interval (CI) 64.41 to 87.91). We found a steady but low decrease in survival over the study period. The mean AOFAS score improved from 28 (10 to 52) preoperatively to 61 (20 to 90) at long-term follow-up. STAR prostheses in the United Kingdom have now been largely superseded by newer design TAAs, potentially with improved characteristics and surgical techniques. The long-term survivorship for the STAR prosthesis can provide a benchmark for these later designs of ankle arthroplasty.

Revision Surgery for Metal Component Failure in Total Ankle Arthroplasty.

Background:Metal component failure in total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) is difficult to treat. Traditionally, conversion to an arthrodesis has been advocated. Revision TAA surgery has become more common with availability of revision implants and refinement of bone-conserving primary implants. The goal of this study was to analyze the clinical results and patient-reported outcomes for patients undergoing revision total ankle arthroplasty.Methods:We retrospectively reviewed prospectively collected data on 52 patients with a mean age of 63.5 ± 9.6 years who had developed loosening or collapse of major metal components following primary TAA. These patients were compared to a case-matched control group of 52 primary TAAs performed at the host institution with a minimum of 2 years’ follow-up. Cases of isolated polyethylene exchange, infection, or extra-articular realignment procedures were excluded. The American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot score, Short Form 36 (SF-36), Short Musculoskeletal Function Assessment (SMFA), and pain scores were prospectively collected. Clinical data was collected through review of the electronic medical record to identify reasons for clinical failure, where clinical failure was defined as second revision or conversion to arthrodesis or amputation.Results:The identified causes of failure of primary TAA were aseptic loosening of both components (42%), talar component subsidence/loosening (36%), coronal talar subluxation (12%), tibial loosening (8%), and talar malrotation (2%). Thirty-one patients (59.5%) underwent revision of all components, 20 (38.5%) just the talar and polyethylene components, and one (2%) the tibial and polyethylene components. The average time to revision was 5.5 years ± 5.4 with a follow-up of 3.1 years ± 1.5 after revision. Eleven (21.2%) revision arthroplasties required further surgery: 6 required conversion to arthrodesis and 5 required second revision TAA. Pain scores, SF-36 scores, SMFA scores, and AOFAS Hindfoot scores all improved after revision surgery but never reached the same degree of improvement seen after primary TAA.Conclusions:Clinical and patient-reported outcomes of revision ankle arthroplasty after metal component failure significantly improved after surgery, although the recovery time was longer. In this series, 21.2% of revision TAAs required a second revision TAA or arthrodesis surgery. Various prostheses performed similarly when used for revision surgery. Revision TAA can offer significant improvements postoperatively.Level of Evidence:Level III, therapeutic.

Compressed Fixation Combined with Vacuum-Assisted Closure for Treating Acute Injury of the Heel Fat Pad.

BackgroundTreating acute injury of the heel fat pad is different from treating common soft tissue damage. Due to the paucity of literature on the topic, we described our initial experience treating acute injury of the heel fat pad to determine the ideal treatment method.Material/MethodsA total of 53 patients with acute injury of the heel fat pad admitted to our hospital were selected for the study and were randomly divided into 2 groups: the compressed fixation combined with vacuum-assisted closure group and the only reimplanted and sewn group. Twenty-seven of the heel fat pads were compressed and fixed using a flat, hard piece of plastic and hollow screws; then, they were covered with a vacuum-assisted closure device. The other 27 were only sewn without tension. The clinical results were evaluated according to the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society hindfoot score and the British Medical Research Council function evaluation criteriaResultsIn the compressed fixation combined with vacuum-assisted closure group, flaps of 12 feet with retrograde avulsion injury survived successfully. Partial flap necrosis occurred in 8 feet. Seven feet underwent repair using the neurocutaneous vascular resupinated island flap. Results were excellent or good for 74% of patients according to the AOFS. However, in the only reimplanted and sewn group, results were excellent or good for 44% of patients according to the AOFS.ConclusionsCompressed fixation with vacuum-assisted closure is effective for treating acute injury of the heel fat pad, with high success rates and good utility.