Superficial Peroneal Research Articles

Management of Superficial and Deep Peroneal Nerve Neuromas with Targeted Muscle Reinnervation in Nonamputees: Operative Technique and Early Outcomes.

Targeted muscle reinnervation (TMR), a surgical technique developed by the senior authors that coapts proximal ends of nerves to distal motor nerves of adjacent muscles, has demonstrated efficacy in the treatment and prevention of neuroma pain. The objective of this study is to describe the surgical technique for TMR of the superficial peroneal nerve (SPN) and deep peroneal nerve (DPN) in nonamputee patients and provide data on postoperative functional outcomes. A single-institution retrospective chart review was performed between March 2018 and April 2021. Patients were de-identified and included if they were nonamputees receiving TMR for pain in the peroneal nerve distribution. Data extracted included demographic information, symptoms before operation, relevant nerve coaptation, peri-, and postoperative complications, and long-term functional outcomes. Of the 19 patients reviewed, 11 patients underwent TMR of the SPN alone: eight had complete resolution of their symptoms; two indicated partial improvement in pain; and one patient had no improvement. Four patients underwent TMR of the DPN alone: two patients had complete resolution of their pain, and two patients had partial improvement with pain. Four patients underwent TMR of both the SPN/DPN: two patients had complete resolution of their symptoms, and two patients were noted to have significant improvement but had persistent pain from prior foot operations. Average follow-up time was 260 days. TMR is a successful technique in the management of SPN and DPN neuroma pain. Our technique revealed excellent clinical outcomes, no procedure-specific complications, and improved subjective pain reports.

Comparison of the medial midline and the anterolateral portal in ankle arthroscopy for the treatment of osteochondral lesions of the medial talus.

To compare the clinical efficacy and complication rates between the medial midline and anterolateral portals in ankle arthroscopy for treating medial osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLTs). We retrospectively analyzed patients with medial OLTs who underwent either a dual medial approach (via the medial midline and anteromedial portal) or a traditional approach (via the anterolateral and anteromedial portal) between June 2017 and January 2023. The degree of injury was evaluated by radiographs, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the visual analog scale (VAS), the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score, and the Magnetic Resonance Observation of Cartilage Repair Tissue (MOCART) scoring system. The incidence of postoperative complications, including superficial peroneal nerve (SPN) injury, was evaluated in all patients. There were 39 patients in total; 16 patients underwent the dual medial approach, and 23 patients underwent the traditional approach. The mean age was 39.4 ± 9.0years, and the mean follow-up duration was 18.7 ± 6.4months. The clinical outcomes improved significantly in both groups (*P < 0.05), but there was no significant difference between the two groups (P > 0.05). Postoperative complications were mainly SPN injury. The incidence of SPN injury was 13.0% in the traditional approach group and 0% in the dual medial approach group, with no significant difference between the two groups (P > 0.05), but a trend of reduction in SPN injury was observed in the dual medial approach group. The dual medial approach can also treat medial OLTs well, providing clear visualization and more convenient operation and reducing the possibility of injury to the SPN compared with the traditional approach. Therefore, we consider that the MM portal would be a good alternative to the anterolateral portal in treating medial OLTs.

Exploring an innovative decellularization protocol for porcine nerve grafts: a translational approach to peripheral nerve repair.

Peripheral nerves are frequently affected by lesions caused by traumatic or iatrogenic damages, resulting in loss of motor and sensory function, crucial in orthopedic outcomes and with a significant impact on patients' quality of life. Many strategies have been proposed over years to repair nerve injuries with substance loss, to achieve musculoskeletal reinnervation and functional recovery. Allograft have been tested as an alternative to the gold standard, the autograft technique, but nerves from donors frequently cause immunogenic response. For this reason, several studies are focusing to find the best way to decellularize nerves preserving either the extracellular matrix, either the basal lamina, as the key elements used by Schwann cells and axons during the regenerative process. This study focuses on a novel decellularization protocol for porcine nerves, aimed at reducing immunogenicity while preserving essential elements like the extracellular matrix and basal lamina, vital for nerve regeneration. To investigate the efficacy of the decellularization protocol to remove immunogenic cellular components of the nerve tissue and to preserve the basal lamina and extracellular matrix, morphological analysis was performed through Masson's Trichrome staining, immunofluorescence, high resolution light microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Decellularized porcine nerve graft were then employed in vivo to repair a rat median nerve lesion. Morphological analysis was also used to study the ability of the porcine decellularized graft to support the nerve regeneration. The decellularization method was effective in preparing porcine superficial peroneal nerves for grafting as evidenced by the removal of immunogenic components and preservation of the ECM. Morphological analysis demonstrated that four weeks after injury, regenerating fibers colonized the graft suggesting a promising use to repair severe nerve lesions. The idea of using a porcine nerve graft arises from a translational perspective. This approach offers a promising direction in the orthopedic field for nerve repair, especially in severe cases where conventional methods are limited.

Ultrahigh-frequency ultrasound of fascicles in the common fibular, superficial fibular, and sural nerves.

While ultrasound assessment of cross-sectional area and echogenicity has gained popularity as a biomarker for various neuropathies, there is a scarcity of data regarding fascicle count and density in neuropathies or even healthy controls. The aim of this study was to determine whether fascicles within select lower limb nerves (common fibular, superficial fibular, and sural nerves) can be counted in healthy individuals using ultrahigh-frequency ultrasound (UHFUS). Twenty healthy volunteers underwent sonographic examination of the common fibular, superficial fibular, and sural nerves on each lower limb using UHFUS with a 48 MHz linear transducer. Fascicle counts and density in each examined nerve were determined by a single rater. The mean fascicle number for each of the measured nerves included the following: common fibular nerve 9.85 (SD 2.29), superficial fibular nerve 5.35 (SD 1.59), and sural nerve 6.73 (SD 1.91). Multivariate linear regression analysis revealed a significant association between cross-sectional area and fascicle count for all three nerves. In addition, there was a significant association seen in the common fibular nerve between fascicle density and height, weight, and body mass index. Age and sex did not predict fascicle count or density (all p > .13). UHFUS enabled the identification and counting of fascicles and fascicle density in the common fibular, superficial fibular, and sural nerves. Knowledge about normal values and normal peripheral nerve architecture is needed in order to further understand and identify pathological changes that may occur within each nerve in different disease states.

Medial dorsal cutaneous nerve entrapment following inversion ankle sprain

The medial dorsal cutaneous nerve is one of the terminal branches of the superficial peroneal nerve that provides sensory innervation to the dorsum of the foot. It may be prone to injury by direct blow, iatrogenic surgical lesion or in rare situations secondary to ankle sprains. The authors report a case of persistent ankle pain in a female patient caused by a post- traumatic compressive neuropathy of the medial dorsal cutaneous nerve secondary to an ankle sprain which was successfully surgically treated with complete resolution of the symptoms.

The Utilization of Minimally Invasive Surgery for Os Trigonum Syndrome: A Systematic Review

Background: A symptomatic os trigonum is a common cause of posterior ankle pain that has been traditionally managed with open excision. Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) has been proposed as an alternative to open excision for improved outcomes and decreased complication rates; however, no systematic review to date has examined the utilization of MIS for a symptomatic os trigonum. Purpose: To examine patient outcomes, return to sport, and complications associated with MIS for a symptomatic os trigonum. Study Design: Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: A systematic review was performed on February 22, 2023, using the PubMed, CINAHL, MEDLINE, and Web of Science databases from database inception until February 22, 2023, on the topic of MIS for a symptomatic os trigonum. Results: Of 885 articles retrieved from an initial search, 17 articles (N = 435 patients) met full inclusion criteria. The mean age of the cohort was 26.01 ± 4.68 years, with a mean follow-up time of 34.63 ± 18.20 months. For patients treated with MIS, the mean preoperative American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score was 55.85 ± 12.75, the mean final postoperative AOFAS score was 94.88 ± 4.04, the mean preoperative visual analog scale pain score was 7.20 ± 0.43, and the mean final postoperative visual analog scale score was 0.71 ± 0.48. The mean time to return to sport for patients undergoing MIS was 7.76 ± 1.42 weeks. MIS had an overall complication rate of 5.0%, the majority of which consisted of transient neurapraxia of the sural or superficial peroneal nerve. Conclusion: Minimally invasive management of a symptomatic os trigonum appears to be a viable alternative to open surgery in terms of outcomes, return to sport, and complication rates. More high-quality evidence will be required to definitely recommend minimally invasive approaches as the standard of care over open surgery.

Evaluation of Quantitative and Selective Sensory Fiber Dysfunction in Patients with Cirrhosis.

Chronic liver disease has been reported to be associated with peripheral neuropathy. However, which sensory fibers are affected remains unknown. The objective of this study was to examine the function of sensory nerve fibers in patients with cirrhosis using the current perception threshold (CPT) test, as well as the correlation between blood biochemical indicators related to cirrhosis and CPT values. We recruited 44 patients with liver cirrhosis and 37 healthy controls of the same age and gender. The Neurometer® system for the CPT test was used to stimulate the median nerve on the right index finger, as well as the deep and superficial peroneal nerves on the right hallux, using three distinct parameters (2000 Hz, 250 Hz, and 5 Hz). Comparative analysis was performed on the CPT values of the sensory nerves. Additionally, the correlation between CPT values and biochemical blood indicators in the study participants was analyzed. Under 2000 Hz electrical stimulation, there was a significant difference between the cirrhosis and healthy control groups in the median nerve as well as the deep and superficial peroneal nerves (p < 0.05). In addition, the median nerve CPT value of the cirrhosis group was significantly higher than that of the control group at an electrical stimulation frequency of 250 Hz (p = 0.005). There was no correlation between CPT values and blood biochemical indicators. According to the results, the sensory peripheral neuropathy in liver cirrhosis is mainly manifested as Aβ fiber neuropathy.

The Relationship Between UA/HDL and Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy: A Cross-Sectional Analysis.

This study was designed to analyze correlations between the uric acid to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (UHR) and peripheral nerve conduction velocity (NCV) among type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients. This was a single-center cross-sectional analysis of 324 T2DM patients. All patients were separated into a group with normal NCV (NCVN) and a group with abnormal NCV (NCVA). Patients were also classified into groups with low and high UHR values based on the median UHR in this study cohort. Neurophysiological data including motor and sensory conduction velocity (MCV and SCV, respectively) were measured for all patients. Relative to patients with low UHR values, those in the high UHR group presented with greater NCVA prevalence (P = 0.002). UHR remained negatively correlated with bilateral superficial peroneal nerve SCV, bilateral common peroneal nerve MCV, bilateral ulnar nerve SCV, and bilateral right median nerve MCV even after adjustment for confounding factors. UHR was identified as an NCVA-related risk factor, with a 1.370-fold increase in NCVA prevalence for every unit rise in UHR(P < 0.001). These results identify UHR as a risk factor associated with NCVA that was independently negatively associated with NCV among T2DM patients.

Anatomical Structures at Risk in Percutaneous Preparation Talonavicular Fusion.

The stability of the hindfoot greatly relies on the integrity of the talonavicular joint. Pathologies affecting this joint often necessitate fusion. Our study explores the risks posed to neurovascular and tendon structures during simulated percutaneous talonavicular joint preparation for fusion. In 9 fresh cadaver specimens, the talonavicular joint was accessed through two portals. A 2-mm Shannon burr was employed for joint surface preparation with distraction provided by a pin-based distractor. Dissections were performed to assess potential damage to critical structures, including the dorsalis pedis artery, superficial and deep peroneal nerves, extensor hallucis longus (EHL), and tibialis anterior (TA) tendons. The dorsal portal site was found to be significantly closer to important structures compared to the medial portal site. The Shannon burr made contact with various structures, with a single transection identified for both deep and superficial peroneal nerve branches. During the dorsal portal site approach, potential injury to the EHL tendon was identified as concern. This study sheds light on the potential risks associated with percutaneous dorsal and medial joint preparation approaches using a Shannon burr.Level of Evidence:Level V, mechanism-based reasoning..

Description of electroneuromiographic and laboratorial findings in leprosy neuropathy, according to its clinical forms: the confirmation of a spectral disease.

Leprosy is one of the most common infectious cause of peripheral neuropathy in the world and can lead to sequelae and physical disabilities. Electroneuromyography (ENMG) is the gold-standard test for evaluating neural impairment, detecting from subclinical abnormalities to advanced lesions. This study aims to describe the electroneuromyographic findings in patients with leprosy, according to their clinical forms. The study is a retrospective observational analysis of the medical records of patients with leprosy, of a National Reference Center of Sanitary Dermatology and Leprosy in Brazil between 2014 and 2022. 513 patients underwent ENMG at leprosy diagnosis and also underwent a clinical, serological and molecular evaluation of the disease. The electroneuromyographic findings showed 2,671 altered nerves, with an average of 6.9 (±5.1) altered nerves per patient. The most affected sensory nerves were the superficial peroneal (25.0%; 413/1649), sural (15.1%; 397/2627) and ulnar (13.8%; 363/2627), with average of 4.3 (±3.2) affected sensory nerves per patient. The most affected motor nerves were the ulnar (33.1%; 338/1022) and common peroneal (12.1%; 319/2627), with average of 2.6 (±2.5) motor nerves affected per patient. 126 patients presented normal ENMG and, among the 387 with abnormalities in the exam, 13.2% (51/387) had mononeuropathy and 86.8% (336/387) had multiple mononeuropathy. Axonal involvement was more frequent in primary neural leprosy, borderline-tuberculoid, borderline-lepromatous and lepromatous forms. Our findings support that leprosy is a spectral disease, characterized by a balance between host immunity and bacillary load. Therefore, the impairment and electroneuromyographic characteristics are distinct and may vary according to the clinical form.

Open Ankle Dislocation Without Associated Malleolar Fracture: Case Report

Open pure tibiotalar dislocations are rarely recorded cases with superficial fibular nerve damage. Case presentation: The authors describe a case of open tibiotalar dislocation without a fracture and a deep deltoid ligament damage as a result of a bad fall. Six hours after the trauma, debridement, open reduction, and casting were done. Following a 4-week checkup, the results were positive and infection-free. Conclusion: Early reduction and appropriate wound care of an open tibiotalar dislocation with delayed repair of an associated deep deltoid ligament tear led to a successful outcome.

Iatrogenic "overshoot" nerve injuries: imaging features.

Describe features of iatrogenic "overshoot" nerve injuries on ultrasound and MRI, which occur when an instrument passes through the bone and injures the nerve after it penetrates the opposite cortex. After a keyword search of the radiology database at a tertiary care orthopedic hospital from January 2016 to December 2022, those fulfilling the inclusion criteria of (1) instrumentation through the bone during surgery, (2) acute neuropathy immediately after surgery, (3) nerve injury confirmed on electrodiagnostics, and (4) imaging consistent with overshoot nerve injury were included. Imaging studies were retrospectively evaluated to determine primary and secondary signs of an overshoot nerve injury. Six patients (3 females, mean age 26.7 (range 10-49) years) had nerve injury fitting the mechanism of injury: 3 injuries to the radial nerve during fixation of distal humerus fractures, 1 tibial nerve and 1 superficial peroneal nerve injury during fixation of tibial fractures, and 1 posterior interosseous nerve injury during biceps tendon repair. Ultrasounds were performed in all while 4 also had MRI. Secondary signs included (1) cortical defect adjacent to injured nerve (n=2); (2) scar extending from bone to injured nerve (n=2); (3) screw tip pointing to injured nerve (n=1, 4) tract in bone on MRI from previous instrumentation pointing to injured nerve (n=2). In addition to primary signs such as laceration or neuroma, secondary signs of "overshoot" nerve injury include cortical defect, scar extending to nerve, screw tip pointing to nerve, and linear tract in the bone on MRI.

Harnessing historical data to derive reference limits – A comparison of e-norms to traditionally derived reference limits

ObjectiveNerve conduction studies (NCS) require valid reference limits for meaningful interpretation. We aimed to further develop the extrapolated norms (e-norms) method for obtaining NCS reference limits from historical laboratory datasets for children and adults, and to validate it against traditionally derived reference limits. MethodsWe compared reference limits obtained by applying a further developed e-norms with reference limits from healthy controls for the age strata’s 9–18, 20–44 and 45–60 years old. The control data consisted of 65 healthy children and 578 healthy adults, matched with 1294 and 5628 patients respectively. Five commonly investigated nerves were chosen: The tibial and peroneal motor nerves (amplitudes, conduction velocities, F-waves), and the sural, superficial peroneal and medial plantar sensory nerves (amplitudes, conduction velocities). The datasets were matched by hospital to ensure identical equipment and protocols. The e-norms method was adapted, and reference limit calculation using both ±2 SD (original method) and ±2.5 SD (to compensate for predicted underestimation of population SD by the e-norms method) was compared to control data using ±2 SD. Percentage agreement between e-norms and the traditional method was calculated. ResultsOn average, the e-norms method (mean ±2 SD) produced slightly stricter reference limits compared to the traditional method. Increasing the e-norms range to mean ±2.5 SD improved the results in children while slightly overcorrecting in the adult group. The average agreement between the two methods was 95 % (±2 SD) and 96 % (±2.5 SD). ConclusionsThe e-norms method yielded slightly stricter reference limits overall than ones obtained through traditional methods; However, much of the difference can be attributed to a few outlying plots where the raters found it difficult to apply e-norms correctly.The two methods disagreed on classification of 4–5% of cases. Our e-norms software is suited to analyze large amounts of raw NCS data; it should further reduce bias and facilitate more accurate ratings. SignificanceWith small adaptations, the e-norms method adequately replicates traditionally derived reference limits, and is a viable method to produce reference limits from historical datasets.

Small fiber neuropathy in irritable bowel syndrome.

In this study, we intend to evaluate the occurrence of small fiber neuropathy in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Small fiber neuropathy (SFN) is a sensory neuropathy that results from the degeneration of small Aδ and unmyelinated C fibers. SFN manifests positive symptoms, such as tingling, burning, prickling, and aching, and negative symptoms, including numbness, tightness, and coldness. The SFN coexistence with other comorbidities (e.g., fibromyalgia, inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease) has been reported in previous studies. We conducted a cross-sectional study to assess the coexistence of SFN and IBS. Forty-two IBS patients and forty-three healthy individuals were asked to complete the Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument (MNSI) questionnaire. Results greater than three (>3) were considered positive. Participants with positive MNSI questionnaire results were examined for any neuropathy signs according to the Utah Early Neuropathy Scale (UENS) examination. The participants with positive results for the questionnaire and examination were checked for the sural and the superficial peroneal nerve conduction study (NCS). Normal NCS represented intact large fibers and the diagnosis of SFN. Ten participants, 7 (16.7 %) in the IBS group and 3 (6.9 %) in the healthy group, had positive results for the questionnaire. Four participants were positive for the examination, with normal NCS, and were classified as SFN-positive. All four SFN diagnoses were from the IBS group. No one in the healthy group was diagnosed with SFN. We could find a significant statistical difference (p<0.05) between the IBS and healthy groups regarding the prevalence of SFN diagnosis. The co-occurrence of SFN and IBS suggests the possibility of a generalized neuropathy syndrome characterized by widespread neuronal impairment. Thus, any peripheral neuropathy symptom in IBS patients (and potentially other chronic pain disorders) should be evaluated for SFN since timely diagnosis and proper treatment result in a better quality of life for the patients.

Use of Fibula Nails With Proximal and Distal Fixation.

Ankle fractures are a frequent injury in the adult population and a quarter of all ankle fractures are classified as unstable, requiring surgical intervention. Plate-and-screw construct is the traditionally used fixation method for fibula fractures. The use of an intramedullary nail is an alternative fixation method, with current literature supporting very low complication rates and hardware removal surgeries. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcomes, including complication rates and implant removal rates, using a fibula nail with both proximal and distal fixation capabilities by an experienced surgeon. We retrospectively reviewed 203 consecutive fibula nail cases from a single surgeon using a mini-open technique for anatomic reduction. Demographic, operative, clinical, and radiographic outcome data were analyzed, specifically examining complication rates and need for implant removal. The average follow-up was 18.8 months (6-54 months). All fractures healed. We identified 2 cases of superficial wound infection, 1 superficial peroneal nerve irritation, and 1 case of implant removal. In the first 110 cases, 2 fractures were converted to a plate intraoperatively prior to a technique modification which has prevented this occurrence. No deep infection, delayed union, or nonunion occurred. Our data support that fibula nails with proximal and distal locking capabilities offer an alternative to plating with the potential for lower complication rates and lower need for implant removal. Level IV, case series.

Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (EGPA): A Case Report Presenting with Peripheral Polyneuropathy

Background: Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis is a rare clinical condition with multiple organ involvement. We report a case of a 64-year-old male patient who presented with symptoms of chronic rhinosinusitis, numbness, and pain in both lower limbs, weight loss of 6 kg/3 months, and subcutaneous vasculitis lesions along the forearms and legs on both sides. The patient had peripheral eosinophilia with an eosinophil count of 11.6%, eosinophil count of 1.56G/l, positive pANCA test, and electromyography results showing damage to the left calf nerve, bilateral superficial peroneal nerve, and left deep peroneal nerve with axonal loss. Biopsy results of calf muscle showed chronic granulomatous vasculitis. The patient was diagnosed with eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) according to the ACR/EULAR 2022 criteria. The patient was given intravenous Methylprednisolone, followed by maintenance treatment with reduced doses of Corticosteroids and Methotrexate. The patient’s leg pain was significantly reduced, numbness in both lower limbs was reduced, and the patient’s quality of life was improved. Methods: clinical case report. Results: The patient’s peripheral polyneuropathy and subcutaneous vasculitis were significantly reduced after treatment with Corticosteroids and Methotrexate. Conclusion: Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis is a rare clinical condition with manifestations of multiple organ damage. Timely detection and diagnosis help increase treatment effectiveness and improve clinical symptoms for patients.

Operative Management of Lateral Ankle Instability: Examination Under Anesthesia, Ankle Arthroscopy and Stabilization Technique

Background: Ankle sprains are common injuries that can result in chronic ankle instability. Indications: Indications for surgical management include recurrent instability, failed conservative management for 3 to 6 months, and inability to return to play or activity. Technique Description: The patient’s ankle is initially examined under anesthesia with anterior drawer testing to confirm the diagnosis of ankle instability. Ankle arthroscopy is then preformed to identify and treat additional intra-articular pathology prior to modified Broström repair. During arthroscopy, care is taken to protect the superficial peroneal nerve. Routinely we perform a “drive-through sign” to assess syndesmotic stability and also debride pathologic intra-articular tissue such as hypertrophied synovium. Following the completion of arthroscopy, an incision is made directly over the fibula. The anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL), calcaneofibular ligament (CFL), and distal fibular periosteum are dissected off the fibula. Two 3.0-mm suture anchors are placed at the origin of the CFL ligament and the ATFL ligament, and previously dissected tissue is incorporated for repair. We reinforce the CFL and ATFL tissues with incorporation of the distal fibular periosteum. Suture tape augmentation is considered for patients at high risk of recurrence, such as those with ligamentous laxity. After completion of our repair, the ankle is again examined under anesthesia with satisfactory confirmation of improved ankle stability. Results: Outcomes of our technique are promising, with improvement in patient-reported outcome measures, restoration of range of motion, return to sport as high as 94%, and low failure rates. Discussion: For patients with chronic instability, our described technique for sequential examination under anesthesia, ankle arthroscopy, and our modified Broström result in satisfactory improvement in ankle stability and patient symptoms. Patient Consent Disclosure Statement: The author(s) attests that consent has been obtained from any patient(s) appearing in this publication. If the individual may be identifiable, the author(s) has included a statement of release or other written form.

Segmental extraneural lipomatosis of the superficial peroneal nerve: illustrative case.

Adipose lesions of nerve are rare tumors that can cause nerve symptoms from either intrinsic or extrinsic compression. The authors present a case of a patient with a 10-year history of progressive, persistent leg pain and dorsal foot paresthesias/dysesthesias. Imaging revealed several nondistinct nodules of indeterminate significance along the course of the superficial peroneal nerve (SPN). Surgery demonstrated six distinct extraneural lipomas studded on a 10-cm segment of the main SPN and one of its muscular branches in the midleg. The lesions were adherent to the SPN, without an easy dissection plane; therefore, a neurectomy was performed. Histology revealed the nerve was associated with multiple extraneural lipomas with focal evidence of prior trauma. At 4 months postoperatively, the patient's pain had resolved completely, and she was able to resume normal physical activities. The current classification of adipose lesions of nerve includes intraneural and extraneural lipomas and lipomatosis of nerve (fibrolipomatous hamartoma). The unique features of the present case include the discrete and segmental nature of the extraneural lipomas adherent to the nerve. Its etiology is unknown, and the histology would be suggestive of either a traumatic or a degenerative process.

The Mini Bone Extra-articular Reconstruction System for Progressive Collapsing Foot Deformity—Surgical Technique With Cadaveric Quantification of Surrounding Anatomy

We present a novel surgical technique, the mini Bone Extra-articular Reconstruction (BEAR) system, that involves minimally invasive all BEAR systems. The surgical technique was used to perform the medial displacement calcaneal osteotomy, Evans osteotomy, and Cotton osteotomy on 9 cadaveric feet under fluoroscopic guidance. We also present a case series of patients who have undergone the procedure. We first carefully dissected the sural nerve, superficial peroneal nerve, and its branches from each cadaveric foot and evaluated injuries following the mini-BEAR osteotomy cuts. We then measured and recorded the distance between the osteotomy cuts and these anatomic structures. We believe that this technique can potentially replace the multiple long surgical incisions with minimal ones. Level of Evidence: Level IV.

Compartments of the crural fascia: clinically relevant ultrasound, anatomical and histological findings

PurposeCompartment syndrome is a surgical emergency that can occur in any part of the body and can cause cell necrosis when maintained over time. The resulting defects can affect the nerves, muscle cells, bone tissue, and other connective tissues inside the compartment, and fasciotomy has to be performed. The anatomical and histological characteristics of the leg make acute, chronic, and exertional compartment syndrome more likely in this limb. For these reasons, knowledge of the ultrasound, anatomical, and histological features of the crural fascia can help in the treatment of leg compartment syndrome.MethodsTwenty-one cryopreserved lower limbs from adult cadavers and from one 29-week-old fetus were obtained from the dissection room. They were examined by ultrasound and a subsequent anatomical dissection and microscopy to study the crural fascia and its relationship with the different muscles. Anthropometric measurements were taken of the distances from the head of the fibula and lateral malleolus to the origin of the tibialis anterior muscle in the crural fascia, the exit of the superficial fibular nerve, and the fascia covering the deep posterior muscles of the leg.ResultsThe crural fascia has very important clinical relationships, which can be identified by ultrasound, as the origin of the tibialis anterior muscle at 16.25 cm from the head of the fibula and the exit of the superficial fibular nerve that crosses this fascia at 21.25 cm from the head of the fibula. Furthermore, the presence of a septum that fixes the deep posterior muscles of the leg and the vessels and nerve can be seen by ultrasound and can explain the possible development of a posterior compartmental syndrome of the leg. Awareness of these features will help to keep these structures safe during the surgical treatment of compartment syndrome.ConclusionThe ultrasound study allows identification of anatomical structures in the leg and, thus, avoids damage to them during surgery for compartmental syndromes.