Subtalar Joint Arthrodesis Research Articles

The analysis report of surgical treatment of limb deformity and disability: 35,075 cases

Objective To investigate the incidence characteristics and corrective strategies of various limb deformities treated by Qinsihe orthopaedic team in the past 40 years, so as to provide a large sample for understanding the causes, types and treatment methods of limb deformity and disability in China. Method A total of 35,075 cases were treated by Qinsihe orthopaedic team from May 1978 to December 2018. The age, gender, deformity characteristics, etiological and pathological composition, regional distribution and surgical methods of the patients were statistically analyzed. Results There were 20,458 males and 14,617 females. The age was 1 year to 82 years old, average 20.5 years. The majority of subjects were from 11 to 25 years old or 19,363 cases (63 %). There were 33,259 cases (94.82 %) of interventions on lower extremity. The geographical distribution of patients covers all the provinces, municipalities directly under the central government, autonomous regions in China and 12 foreign countries. There were 202 etiologies involving neurological, heredity, metabolism, traumatic sequelae, congenital, vascular, lymphoid, skin, endocrine, iatrogenic and so on. The top six deformities were due to poliomyelitis sequelae, cerebral palsy, traumatic sequelae, spondylolysis sequelae, genu varus&valgus, congenital talipes equinovarus. There were 280 kinds of surgical methods, the majority of which were Achilles tendon lengthening, supracondylar osteotomy, subtalar joint arthrodesis, tibiofibular osteotomy, metatarsal aponeurosis and Achilles tendon replacement of peroneal longus muscle, etc. 8,702 cases were treated by orthopedic surgery combined with external fixation, including the Ilizarov fixator in 3,696 cases and hybrid fixator in 5,006 cases. Conclusion Qinsihe orthopaedic database with a history of 40 years is the largest one of limb deformity and disability in China. It reflects the etiology, type, population characteristics, surgical methods and strategy of limb disability and deformity, which can be treated by orthopaedic surgery. The data is a great treasure for orthopaedics and disability medicine in China and worldwide, and its important academic value and historical significance need to be further excavated and deep studied in future.

Improved Ilizarov method for management of deformity and ulceration on foot and ankle of spina bifida.

ObjectiveTo analyze the characteristics of foot and ankle deformity with ulceration in patients with spina bifida, to conclude experiences on management with improved Ilizarov method in one stage.Methods77 cases suffering foot and ankle deformity with ulceration of spina bifida were included from January 2008 to June 2019, in which 30 male and 47 female, aged 6–46 years with an average age of 22.86 years. There were 10 cases on left, 14 on right and 53 on both. The improved Ilizarov method combined soft tissue surgery, bone osteotomy and Ilizarov technique in one stage, by which the ulcer was dressed aseptically and avoid weight bearing preoperatively, no special treatment, no debridement, no flap coverage and no bacterial culture. Antibiotics were given for 3 days routinely, and the dressing was removed 5 days later. If there was exudation, gauze could be used to wrap continually, if there was no swelling and exudation, no need further more caring. General appearance and radiological image of ulcer and deformity were observed during the period of evaluation and treatment, surgical method and complications, foot & ankle function and overall function were evaluated using AOFAS scoring system and special table designed by authors.Results77 cases were followed up for 6–132 months with an average of 50.5 months. Achilles tendon subcutaneous lengthening was performed in 2 cases, posterior tibial tendon and Achilles tendon simultaneous released for 31cases, subtalar joint arthrodesis 25 cases, calcaneus osteotomy 5 cases, triple osteotomy 28 cases, ankle arthrodesis 19 cases, internal rotation osteotomy of tibia was performed in 1 case and 1 case in external rotation osteotomy. There were 67 cases using Ilizarov fixators and 10 cases using Hybrid fixators for immobilization and correction. Stable feet were obtained and ulcers healed simultaneously when all deformities of foot and ankle had been corrected. The healing time of ulcer was average 26.5 days ranging 7–36 days, and there was no infection or delayed healing occurred in any case. Ankle ankylosis in 25 cases, 3 cases of pin tract infection, 2 wires were broken. The AOFAS score significantly increased from 70.5 ± 4.5 preoperative to 81.6 ± 3.9 postoperative; based special table evaluating, Excellent 28 cases, Good 42 cases, Fair7 cases.ConclusionThe patients with foot & ankle deformity and ulceration suffered from spinal bifida can be treated by improved Ilizarov method in one stage, and the results are satisfactory with short treatment period and decreased complications.Translational potential of this articleThe characteristics of foot and ankle deformity with ulceration inpatients with spina bifida have been analyzed and the experiences on management with improved Ilizarovmethod in one stage have been summarized in this study, which updated treatment concept of neurogenic deformity with ulceration on foot and ankle joint.

Outcome of surgical management of plano-valgus foot in cerebral palsy with batchelor’s extra-articular subtalar arthrodesis

Introduction: Foot deformities caused by altered or abnormal muscle forces are common in patients with cerebral palsy. The incidence of foot deformities in cerebral palsy is approximately 70% to 90%. The most common deformity is ankle equinus, with equinovarus and equinovalgus deformities being equally common. A foot deformity can have significant effects on the patient's overall ambulatory level. The purpose of this study was to assess the functional outcome of batchelor’s extra-articular subtalar arthrodesis in spastic planovalgus foot in cerebral palsy children. Materials and Methods: This is a prospective study of 40 patients (68 feet) with spastic planovalgus foot deformity presenting to BIRRD (T) Hospital from October 2015 to October 2017. Children with spastic planovalgus foot between 6 yrs-14 yrs were included in study. There were 24 male and 16 female children. The mean age at the time of surgery was 10 yrs. Both feet were involved in 28 children, 8 had right foot involvement and 4 had left foot involvement. In our study we had 12 hemiplegics and 28 diplegics. Children with mental retardation, extra pyramidal type of cerebral palsy, rigid plano-valgus foot, spastic quadriplegia were excluded from the study. All patients underwent batchelor’s arthrodesis with fibular graft and were immobilized in below knee POP cast for 8 weeks. 24 patients underwent gastrosoleus lengthening along with batchelor’s arthrodesis. Clinical and functional outcome was assessed based on AOFAS (American orthopaedic foot and ankle score) clinical rating system. Radiological assessment was done by measuring Lateral talocalcaneal angle and Talar declination angle. The results of batchelor’s arthrodesis are stated as satisfactory and unsatisfactory. Satisfactory: Clinical and roentgenographic stabilization of the hind foot and no recurrence of planovalgus deformity. Unsatisfactory: Clinical and roentogenographic evidence of failure of stabilization. Results and Discussion: All children had spastic type of cerebral palsy. Post-operatively children were followed-up for an average period of 14 months, with range from 4 to 24 months. Among 40 patients (68 feet), 8 feet (12 percent) had residual valgus, 12 feet (18 percent) had graft absorption, 4 feet (6 percent) had fracture of the graft and none had varus deformity after an average follow-up of 14 months. Out of 68 feet, 44 feet had “satisfactory” result (65 percent) and 24 feet had “unsatisfactory” result (35 percent). Conclusion: Our experience concludes that batchelor’s extra-articular arthrodesis of sub-talar joint is a good procedure for correction of plano-valgus foot deformity in cerebral palsy patients. Advantages of the procedure are simplicity of the technique, immediate firm fixation and early weight bearing. Keywords: Cerebral palsy, Batchelor’s subtalar arthrodesis, Planovalgus foot, AOFAS clinical rating system.

Evaluation of Ankle Mobility Loss in Patients Undergoing Subtalar Arthrodesis

Category:HindfootIntroduction/Purpose:Objective: To evaluate and quantify the loss of ankle mobility in patients undergoing subtalar arthrodesis compared to the contralateral side, through physical examination.Methods:A total of 12 patients who had only the subtalar arthrodesis procedure from various causes in one foot were selected. The same foot and ankle surgeon performed all measurements of bilateral tibiotarsal range of motion, with loaded closed-chain and unloaded open-chain tests. Then, to assess whether there was a difference between the operated and the non-operated side, statistical analysis was performed with the Mann-Whitney test (Hollander and Wolfe 1999).Results:On the loaded closed-chain test, the operated side had a significantly lower range of motion than the contralateral side, with a mean difference of 5.4 degrees for dorsal flexion and 7.6 degrees for plantar flexion. The open-chain tests showed non- significant differences of 3 degrees for dorsal flexion and 5.3 degrees for plantar flexion.Conclusion:Subtalar joint arthrodesis was shown to cause a loss of mobility in the ipsilateral ankle, which is greater in plantar flexion movement.

Talocalcaneal coalition resection and bone block subtalar joint arthrodesis

In this technical tip, we present the case of an obese 17-year-old female diagnosed with a severe, rigid, and symptomatic flatfoot on a background of exuberant talocalcaneal and residual calcaneonavicular coalition. Through a technical modification of the fusion resection, both coalitions were quickly and safely removed with two single cuts of an oscillating saw, resecting a medial wedge through a medial approach, without the need for “peel-off” tarsal coalition resection. To protect and guide the resection osteotomy, one Freer elevator ws inserted under direct visualization on the patent posterolateral aspect of the subtalar joint posterior facet and a second elevator was positioned underneath the talar neck. Under fluoroscopic guidance, an osteotomy was performed connecting these two points. The patient also received a bone-block subtalar joint arthrodesis and a Cotton osteotomy. Good short-term alignment correction and functional outcome were achieved. Level of Evidence V; Therapeutic Studies; Expert Opinion.

Isolated subtalar arthrodesis causes loss of ankle mobility

Objective: To evaluate and quantify, through physical examination, loss of ankle mobility in patients undergoing subtalar fusion, in comparison to the contralateral side. Methods: A total of 12 patients who underwent unilateral isolated subtalar arthrodesis for different conditions were selected. The assessment was performed with the aid of a goniometer, measurements of the bilateral range of motion of the tibiotarsal joint, in closed chain weight-bearing and open chain non-weight-bearing. The same foot and ankle surgeon performed all measurements. Results: The operated side achieved significantly lower range of motion values in the closed chain weight-bearing test compared to the contralateral side, with a mean difference of 5.4° (p=0.029) for dorsiflexion and 7.6° (p=0.006) for plantar flexion. No statistically significant difference was found in the open chain test. Conclusion: Isolated subtalar joint arthrodesis leads to reduced range of motion in the ipsilateral ankle. Level of Evidence III; Therapeutic Study; Comparative Retrospective Study.

Common Pitfalls in Subtalar Joint Preparation for Arthrodesis via Sinus Tarsi Approach

This cadaveric study assessed factors that could lead to nonunions in subtalar joint arthrodesis. The purpose of this study was to assist surgeons in achieving sufficient joint preparation in hopes to achieve more frequent arthrodesis of the subtalar joint. We evaluated the influence of experience in regard to cartilage preparation of the joint. We also assessed which quadrants of the subtalar joint were more likely to have unprepared cartilage. The subtalar joints in 17 cadaveric limbs were prepared by 17 participants with differing levels of experience. After the cartilage was denuded, the percentage of unprepared cartilage in each subtalar joint was calculated. The medial quadrants were more likely to have unprepared surfaces. There was also a learning curve present with subtalar joint preparation, as seen by the significantly larger percentage of unprepared cartilage in cadavers prepared by first year residents.

Surgical treatment of limb deformity and disability: a statistical analysis of 35 075 cases from QIN Sihe orthopaedic team between May 25, 1978 and December 31, 2018

To investigate the characteristics and corrective strategies of various limb deformities treated by QIN Sihe orthopaedic team in the past 40 years, so as to provide a large sample for understanding the causes, types, and treatment methods of limb deformity and disability in China. A clinical data of 35 075 cases who were treated by QIN Sihe orthopaedic team between May 1978 and December 2018 was summarized. The age, gender, deformity characteristics, etiological and pathological composition, regional distribution, and surgical methods of the patients were analyzed. There were 20 458 males (58.33%) and 14 617 females (41.67%). The age ranged from 1 to 82 years (mean, 20.5 years). The majority people (19 363 cases, 55.20%) were 11-25 years old. Of which, 33 259 cases (94.82%) were operated on lower extremity. The geographical distribution of patients covered 33 regions in China and 12 foreign countries. There were 202 etiologies involved neurological, heredity, metabolism, traumatic sequelae, congenital, vascular, lymphoid, skin, endocrine, iatrogenic, and so on. The disease covered all subsubjects of orthopaedics. The top six deformities secondary to poliomyelitis sequelae, cerebral palsy, traumatic sequelae, spondylolysis sequelae, genu varum and genu valgum, and congenital talipes equinovarus. There were 280 kinds of surgical methods, the majority of which were Achilles tendon lengthening, supracondylar osteotomy, subtalar joint arthrodesis, tibiofibular osteotomy, metatarsal aponeurosis, and Achilles tendon replacement of peroneal longus muscle, etc. Orthopaedic surgery combined with external fixation were applied in 8 702 cases, including Ilizarov fixator in 3 696 cases and Hybrid fixator in 5 006 cases. QIN Sihe orthopaedic database with 40 years is the largest one of limb deformity and disability in China. It reflects the etiology, type, population characteristics, surgical methods and strategy of limb disability and deformity which can be treated by orthopaedic surgery. The data needs to be further excavated and deeply studied in future because of its important academic value and historical significance.

TL 18097 - Role of bone graft and bone graft substitutes in isolated subtalar joint arthrodesis

Introduction: Subtalar joint (STJ) arthrodesis is a well-established operative procedure in the treatment of subtalar arthritis and hindfoot deformities. Nonunion remains an important complication, with an incidence and role of risk factors varying in the literature. Recent reports have highlighted a decrease in overall union rates between 96% and 100% to 84%, further strengthening the need for an understanding of risk factors that may be implicated in nonunion rates. Some possible factors have been identified, including smoking, revision surgery, the presence and extent of devascularized bone, and previous ankle joint fusion. Current practice suggests that using bone grafts or bone graft substitutes decreases the risk of its occurrence. Objective: To compare union rates of isolated subtalar arthrodesis with and without the use of bone grafts or bone graft substitutes. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 135 subtalar fusions with a mean follow-up of 18 ± 14 months. The standard approach was used for all operations. Graft materials included β-tricalcium phosphate, demineralized bone matrix, iliac crest autograft and allograft and allograft cancellous chips. Successful subtalar fusion was determined clinically and radiographically. Results: There was an 88% (37/42) union rate without graft and an 83% (78/93) union rate with bone graft use. The odds ratio of union for graft versus no graft was 0.703 (95% CI, 0.237-2.08). The average time to union in the graft group was 3 ± 0.73 months and 3 ± 0.86 in the nongraft group, with no statistically significant difference detected (p = 0.56). Conclusion: Graft use did not improve union rates for subtalar arthrodesis.

TL 18096 - Biomechanical comparison of plantar-to-dorsal and dorsal-to-plantar screw fixation strength for subtalar arthrodesis

Introduction: Arthrodesis of the subtalar joint is performed for various arthritic and instability problems to correct alignment and relieve pain. Use of compression screws is the most common fixation method. Screws may be oriented from dorsal to plantar or plantar to dorsal. Arguments favoring one approach over another are based more on “expert opinion” than on hard data. Methods: Eight matched pairs of cadaver feet underwent subtalar joint arthrodesis with two 7.3-mm cannulated screws. Randomization was used to assign the screw orientation, such that one foot in each pair was assigned dorsal to the plantar screw orientation (DP group), with the other foot plantar to the dorsal orientation (PD group). The standard surgical technique with fluoroscopy was used for each approach. Following fixation, each specimen was loaded to failure with a Bionix 858 MTS device, applying a downward axial force at a distance to create torque. Torque to failure was compared between DP and PD groups using the Student’s T-test, with p = 0.05 used to determine statistical significance. Results: The statistical analysis demonstrated that the mean torque to failure slightly favored the DP group (37.3 N-m) compared with the PD group (32.2 N-m). However, the difference between the two groups was not statistically significant (p = 0.55). Conclusion: In subtalar arthrodesis, there is no significant difference in construct strength between the dorsal-to-plantar and plantar-to-dorsal screw orientation. The approach chosen by the surgeon should be based on factors other than the biomechanical strength of the screw orientation.

Biomechanical Comparison of Plantar-To-Dorsal and Dorsal-To-Plantar Screw Fixation Strength for Subtalar Arthrodesis

Category:Basic Sciences/Biologics, HindfootIntroduction/Purpose:Arthrodesis of the subtalar joint is performed for various arthritic and instability problems to correct alignment and relieve pain. For talocalcaneal pathologies, isolated subtalar arthrodesis has been advocated with the advantages of lower risk of adjacent joint arthritis and nonunion of the transverse tarsal joint. Internal fixation techniques have varied over time and use of compression screws is common. The screws may be oriented from dorsal to plantar or plantar to dorsal. Arguments favoring one approach over another are based more on “expert opinion” than hard data. The goal of this study was to compare the biomechanical stability of these two constructs to evaluate which creates a more stable construct.Methods:Eight matched pairs of cadaver feet underwent subtalar joint arthrodesis with two 7.3-mm cannulated screws. Randomization was used to assign screw orientation, such that one foot in each pair was assigned dorsal to plantar screw orientation (DP group), and the other foot plantar to dorsal orientation (PD group). Standard surgical technique with fluoroscopy was used for each approach. Following fixation, each specimen was loaded to failure with a Bionix 858 MTS device, applying a downward axial force at a distance to create torque. Torque to failure was compared between DP and PD groups using Student’s T-test, with p = 0.05 used to determine statistical significance.Results:The force to failure was 585.9 ± 201.1 N for the plantar-to-dorsal fixation and 667.2 ± 449.4 N for the dorsal-to-plantar fixation. The moment arm was 55.1 ± 4.7 mm for the dorsal-to-plantar fixation and 54.8 ± 3.9 mm for the plantar-to-dorsal fixation. Statistical analysis demonstrated that the mean torque to failure slightly favored the DP group (37.3 N-m) to the PD group (32.2 N-m). However, the difference between the two groups was not statistically significant (p = 0.55).Conclusion:There is no significant difference in strength between subtalar arthrodesis performed with dorsal-to-plantar screw orientation and plantar-to-dorsal screw orientation. This suggests that selection of technique should depend on the situation and the required advantages of each. Placing the screw from the heel up has the benefit of being an easier approach, allows access to tenser talar bone once the screw is through, and has less risk of neurovascular injury. The dorsal-to-plantar technique allows simple supine positioning of the patient, needs only two fluoroscopic views to check pin position, and allows the surgeon to manipulate the foot more easily.

Minimally invasive internal fixation of calcaneal fractures or subtalar joint arthrodesis using the Calcanail®.

Aminimally invasive technique to prevent soft tissue problems using acalcaneal nail (Calcanail®, FH Orthopedics, Heimsbrunn, France) for calcaneal fractures or in subtalar joint arthrodesis is described. Displaced extra-articular calcaneal fractures involving the tuberosity fragment and in displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures with impression and/or displacement of the subtalar joint surface. Subtalar joint arthrodesis for posttraumatic subtalar osteoarthritis. Severely displaced fractures type Sanders IV with the purpose of internal fixation; peripheral calcaneal fractures; general contraindications for operative treatment. Minimally invasive reduction of calcaneal fractures using aspecial distractor and agraft pusher through acalcaneal working channel. Fixation performed via the insertion of the Calcanail® and the two locking screws, optional additional screws. Subtalar joint arthrodesis with aCalcanail® used with optional three locking screws to fix the talus and calcaneus creating an angular stable construct. Mobilization and restricted weight-bearing for 6weeks in the patient's own shoes after fracture fixation or in awalker after arthrodesis. Preliminary results of 69cases from three surgical centers have already been published. From 2013-2017, the technique was used in 48of our own patients (42 calcaneal fracture reduction and fixation; 6for subtalar joint arthrodesis). Mean postoperative hospital stay was 7days for fracture reduction without any need of additional operations. During follow-up, 6 implant removals and 2 secondary subtalar fusions were noticed. All 6cases of subtalar joint arthrodesis were planned in posttraumatic subtalar osteoarthritis.

Does Patient Positioning and Portal Placement for Arthroscopic Subtalar Arthrodesis Matter?

Category: Arthroscopy Introduction/Purpose: Arthroscopic subtalar joint arthrodesis was first described over two decades ago. The procedure was originally performed with the patient in the lateral decubitus or supine position using anterolateral and posterolateral portals based on the fibula. More recently, several authors have advocated for prone positioning utilizing posteromedial and posterolateral portals. Proponents of the prone position cite improved intra-articular visualization with limited need for traction and more thorough preparation of the posterior facet. Multiple studies have compared arthroscopic to open subtalar arthrodesis and demonstrated similar fusion rates, lower morbidity, and a high level of patient satisfaction with the arthroscopic procedure. To our knowledge, this is the first study investigating how patient positioning and portal placement affects outcomes and morbidity for the arthroscopic procedure. Methods: A systematic review was performed according to PRISMA guidelines utilizing PubMed and Embase. All original studies with reported complication rates for arthroscopic subtalar arthrodesis were included. Two independent reviewers collected patient demographic data, operative positioning, complications, and outcomes including time to fusion and American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scores. Patients were placed into the prone group if they were positioned prone with posterior portals or the lateral group if they underwent lateral portal placement. The rate of complications related to portal placement, nonunion rate, rate of painful hardware, and rate of revision were also recorded. The proportions of patients with specific complications in each group were determined and transformed using the Freeman-Tukey double-arcsine method to stabilize variances. Heterogeneity across studies was present as determined using the Q and I2 statistics or likelihood ratio test. Inverse-variance weighted random-effects models were used to evaluate the pooled estimates using R software. Results: A total of 484 feet in 468 patients with a mean follow-up of 36.1 months were included for analysis. Thirteen studies examined patients in the prone position (n=302) and seven articles looked at lateral portals (n=182). Mean AOFAS scores improved from 46.3 to 81.6 following surgery. Fusion was seen in 95.8% of feet at a mean of 10.9 weeks. The total complication rate was similar (p=0.620) between the prone (18.2%) and lateral (17.6%) groups. There was no difference observed in the rate of complications secondary to portal placement (p=0.919), rate of painful hardware (p=0.534), and revision rate (p=0.400) between the two groups. The prone group sustained 20 nonunions (6.6%) which was significantly more than the 2 nonunions (1.1%) found in the lateral group (p=0.039). Conclusion: Arthroscopic subtalar arthrodesis is an effective treatment option for subtalar joint pathology. We found a higher rate of nonunion when the patient is positioned prone and the arthroscopic portals are placed posteriorly. There was no difference in the rate of nerve/tendon injury, painful hardware, and revision surgery. AOFAS scores were improved regardless of portal placement. Limitations of our study include the variability in fusion hardware and use of bone graft for fusion augmentation between studies. We also were unable to account for surgeon experience, operative volume, and comfort level with the procedure. Further large scale prospective studies are warranted.

Safety of dorsolateral talonavicular joint fixation in modified double arthrodesis: an anatomic study

Background: Augmentation of talonavicular fusion with a retrograde percutaneous naviculocalcaneal screw has been shown to increase fixation stiffness of double (subtalar and talonavicular joint) arthrodesis. However, previous authors have speculated that neurovascular structures could be at risk in a percutaneous procedure. We investigated the safety of this procedure. We hypothesized that a high risk of neurovascular injury would be found. Methods: Dorsolateral talonaviculocalcaneal screw fixation was performed in 17 fresh-frozen cadaver limbs. A 1.5-cm incision was created over the lateral third of the navicular. Using percutaneous technique, a 4.5-mm cannulated screw was inserted using a guide wire. Blunt dissection and careful soft-tissue retraction were performed. The incision was extended, and a caliper was used to measure the distance from the guide wire to the superficial peroneal nerve (SPN), extensor hallucis longus, extensor digitorum longus, deep peroneal nerve (DPN), and deep peroneal artery (DPA). All injuries were recorded. Results: Injury to the deep neurovascular bundle occurred in five of 17 specimens. These injuries involved four insults to the DPN, two to the DPA, and one to branches of the SPN. Conclusions: Use of a retrograde naviculocalcaneal screw to augment talonavicular fusion in the setting of double arthrodesis was associated with high risk of injury to anatomic structures, including the deep neurovascular bundle. Clinical Relevance: An open procedure with careful dissection along the neurovascular bundle should be considered with use of a retrograde naviculocalcaneal screw to augment talonavicular fusion to avoid risk to nearby anatomic structures.

Correction of flatfoot deformity by subtalar arthrodesis through single medial approach

Category: Hindfoot Introduction/Purpose: To study the clinical results using isolate medial approach to correct flatfoot deformity in subtalar joint arthrodesis. Methods: 14 patients with flatfoot deformity were treated using isolated subtalar joint arthrodesis from March 2011 to March 2014. There were 3 males and 11 females with an average age of 60.81 years (ranged from 51 to 75 years). They are all cases of posterior tibial tendon dysfunctions, 9 of Myerson type Ⅲ, 3 of Ⅱ(b) and 2 of Ⅱ(c). Results: The mean duration of surgery was 100.54 minutes (range, 91-124 minutes). 12 patients were followed up for 20.25 months in average (range from 12 to 48 months). All of the cases have healed well, and the mean time of bone union was 9.53 weeks (ranged from 8 to 17 weeks). No infection was found in any cases. A complication was observed 1 patient which is painful fixation. None of the patients experienced a nonunion or an adverse event related to the medial neurovascular structures. The mean Kitaoka score increased from 43.67 to 80.81 Conclusion: Based on our experience with the procedure, the isolate subtalar joint arthrodesis is a useful alternative to triple arthrodesis for the correction of mild and some moderate flatfoot deformity.

Effectiveness of Hindfoot Arthrodesis by Stable Internal Fixation in Various Eichenholtz Stages of Neuropathic Ankle Arthropathy

The optimal time to treat neuropathic (Charcot) arthropathy of the ankle and peritalar joint is controversial because of the various treatment options available and the variable results reported in published studies. We sought to determine the outcome of hind foot arthrodesis with stable internal fixation in patients with different Eichenholtz stages of arthropathy. We prospectively studied patients with substantial disabilities caused by neuropathic arthropathy in deformed, unstable ankle and peritalar joints, with or without ulcerations, who had undergone treatment from July 2007 to December 2012. All patients underwent ankle arthrodesis, autologous iliac crest bone grafting, and subtalar joint arthrodesis, with or without talonavicular joint arthrodesis, fixed internally with an intramedullary hindfoot nail, with or without an additional plate or cancellous screws. Of the 33 enrolled patients, 9 (27.3%) had stage I, 13 (39.4%) had stage II, and 11 (33.3%) had stage III Charcot arthropathy. The cause of arthropathy was diabetes mellitus in 25 (75.8%) patients. The duration of symptoms ranged from 1 to 120 (median 7) months. The mean follow-up period was 40 (range 12 to 76) months and did not differ markedly among the groups. The hindfoot scores, rate of salvage or amputation, or complication rates did not differ significantly across Eichenholtz stage. For the patients with stage I, II, and III, the preoperative hindfoot score was 50, 49, and 48, respectively (p = .9). The corresponding postoperative scores were 68, 68, and 70 (p = .5). We found no evidence that the effectiveness of hindfoot arthrodesis by stable fixation varied across the Eichenholtz stage of Charcot arthropathy involving ankle and peritalar joint. Furthermore, we found that stable internal fixation and bone grafting using a hindfoot nail results in an 84.84% union rate and salvages the unstable and disabled foot in 90.9% of patients with ankle and peritalar Charcot arthropathy.

A Review of 399 Total Ankle Replacements: Analysis of Ipsilateral Subtalar Joint Arthrodesis and Associated Talar Component Subsidence

Total ankle replacement (TAR) is an accepted treatment for end-stage ankle arthritis. When concurrent subtalar joint pathologic features exist, ipsilateral subtalar joint arthrodesis (STJA) can be performed either simultaneous with TAR or as a staged procedure. Limited data exist on the effect of talar component subsidence and prosthesis survivorship. The present study purpose was to evaluate the effect of STJA on talar component subsidence after primary TAR and its effect on TAR survivorship. All patients, a minimum of 18 years old, from a single institution with modern-generation TAR and 1-year minimum follow-up data available were evaluated. The study group included patients who had also undergone STJA, and the control group (no STJA) was matched 1:1 by age, gender, and prosthesis. The initial postoperative weightbearing and most recent weightbearing radiographs were compared for talar component subsidence. We reviewed 399 primary TARs from 2004 to 2012. A total of 33 patients with ipsilateral STJA met the inclusion criteria and had an appropriate control group match. In the study group, 8 patients required a return to the operating room for 4 revisions and 4 reoperations at a median follow-up point of 24.3 months. Of the controls, 9 patients required a return to the operating room, with 4 revisions and 5 reoperations at a median follow-up point of 38.4 months. No statistically significant radiographic differences were found between the 2 groups. Primary TAR and ipsilateral STJA were infrequently required (41 of 399; 10.3%). TAR did not result in decreased survivorship when performed with ipsilateral STJA at an early follow-up point. Further study is warranted to determine any differences among previous, simultaneous, and subsequent STJA with ipsilateral TAR, and a matched longitudinal analysis is needed to determine longer term survivorship.

TIBIAL-TALO-CALCANEUM ARTHRODESIS

Objectives: To determine the clinical and radiological outcome of Tibio-talocalcanealarthrodesis with Retrograde intramedullary SIGN Nail in patients with tibiotalar andsubtalar joint pathologies. Study Design: Descriptive case. Period: September 2012 to May2015. Setting: OPD or Emergency at Orthopaedics Unit of Ghurki Trust Teaching HospitalLahore. Materials and methods: 40 patients study. Detailed history, clinical examination andinvestigations were done after proper consent. Pre operative diagnosis was made on anteroposterior and lateral views of plan x rays. Retrograde Intramedullary fixation was done underimage control. All post operative patients were followed regularly on opd basis and outcomeof intramedullary fixation was determined on 6th post-operative month. Results: There were40 patients who underwent arthrodesis and fixation. There were 82.5% male and 22.5%female with mean age of 41.5 years. 95% of the patients having pain improvement whileonly 2.5% of the patients didn’t get benefit from it. Infection and non union were seen inonly 1 patient. Conclusion: retrograde sign nail is a good option for ankle and subtalar jointarthrodesis. Early weight bearing and healing in shorter period of time are its main advantages.

English

Objectives: To determine the clinical and radiological outcome of Tibio-talocalcanealarthrodesis with Retrograde intramedullary SIGN Nail in patients with tibiotalar andsubtalar joint pathologies. Study Design: Descriptive case. Period: September 2012 to May2015. Setting: OPD or Emergency at Orthopaedics Unit of Ghurki Trust Teaching HospitalLahore. Materials and methods: 40 patients study. Detailed history, clinical examination andinvestigations were done after proper consent. Pre operative diagnosis was made on anteroposterior and lateral views of plan x rays. Retrograde Intramedullary fixation was done underimage control. All post operative patients were followed regularly on opd basis and outcomeof intramedullary fixation was determined on 6th post-operative month. Results: There were40 patients who underwent arthrodesis and fixation. There were 82.5% male and 22.5%female with mean age of 41.5 years. 95% of the patients having pain improvement whileonly 2.5% of the patients didn’t get benefit from it. Infection and non union were seen inonly 1 patient. Conclusion: retrograde sign nail is a good option for ankle and subtalar jointarthrodesis. Early weight bearing and healing in shorter period of time are its main advantages.

Arthrodesis of the Subtalar Joint in a High School Football Player With a Talocalcaneal Coalition: Case Report With Functional Analysis.

Therapeutic, Level IV: Case study.