Takakura Stage Research Articles

Fibular osteotomy is helpful for talar reduction in the treatment of varus ankle osteoarthritis with supramalleolar osteotomy

BackgroundThere have been debates on the necessity of fibular osteotomy (FO) in supramalleolar osteotomy (SMOT) for the treatment of varus ankle osteoarthritis. The purpose of the current study was to compare the clinical and radiological outcomes between SMOT with and without FO in the treatment of varus ankle osteoarthritis.MethodsThe SMOT group included 39 patients, and the SMOT with FO group included 24 patients. The basic information reached no significant difference between groups. The American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot score, Ankle Osteoarthritis Scale (AOS), modified Takakura stage and range of motion (ROM) were used for the functional evaluation. The radiologic parameters were assessed at the last follow-up to compare the degree of talar reduction between the two groups.ResultsBoth groups achieved significant improvements in AOFAS scores, modified Takakura stage, as well as AOS pain and functional scores (P < 0.001). The ROM of the ankle joint in the SMOT group was significantly decreased (P = 0.022). In both groups, all of the radiological parameters were significantly improved (P < 0.01). The tibiofibular clear space (TFCS) was significantly widened in the SMOT group (P < 0.001). No significant difference was found between the two groups according to the functional outcomes. However, the talar tilt angle (TT) and hindfoot alignment angle (HFA) in the SMOT with FO group were significantly smaller than those in the SMOT group (P < 0.05). The TFCS was significantly widened in the SMOT group (P = 0.001). The medial displacement of the talus (MDT) was better reduced in the SMOT with FO group (P = 0.006).ConclusionSMOT is a promising procedure for functional improvement and malalignment correction in varus ankle osteoarthritis but reduces ankle range of motion. If SMOT is combined with FO, talar tilt and medial displacement will be better reduced.

Repositional Subtalar Arthrodesis Combined With Supramalleolar Osteotomy for Late-Stage Varus Ankle Arthritis With Hindfoot Valgus.

Late-stage varus ankle arthritis is thought to be associated with varus of the tibial plafond and hindfoot. However, some late-stage varus arthritis show hindfoot valgus, which can be explained by subtalar subluxation with opposite directional motion between the talus and calcaneus. We hypothesized that late-stage varus ankle arthritis with hindfoot valgus could improve with repositional subtalar arthrodesis and supramalleolar osteotomy (SMO). The purpose of this study was to investigate the clinical and radiographic results of the repositional subtalar arthrodesis combined with SMO for late-stage varus ankle arthritis with hindfoot valgus. This study includes 16 consecutive patients (16 ankles) with late-stage varus ankle arthritis of Takakura stage 3-b and hindfoot valgus who were treated using repositional subtalar arthrodesis combined with SMO and followed for a minimum of 2 years. Clinical results were assessed with the visual analog scale (VAS) and the Foot Function Index (FFI). Radiographic results were assessed with standard parameters measured on weightbearing foot and ankle radiographs. Clinical and radiographic results were evaluated preoperatively and at the last follow-up. VAS and FFI significantly improved after surgery. Mean talar tilt angle improved from 12.8 ± 2.8 degrees to 3.9 ± 3.1 degrees (P < .001). Talus center migration and Meary angle significantly improved after surgery. Medial distal tibial angle, lateral talocalcaneal angle, hindfoot moment arm, and talonavicular coverage angle significantly changed after surgery. Radiographic stage improved in 15 ankles (93.8%) after surgery. In this series with minimum 2-year follow-up, we found that late-stage (Takakura stage 3-b) varus ankle arthritis with hindfoot valgus clinically and radiographically improved with repositional subtalar arthrodesis combined with SMO. Level IV, prognostic.

Outcomes of oblique supramalleolar osteotomy without fibular osteotomy for congruent- and incongruent-type medial ankle arthritis

BackgroundAlthough high talar tilt and ankle mortise incongruence are risk factors for supramalleolar osteotomy (SMO), no study on lateral talofibular joint congruence exists. We aimed to evaluate the outcomes of oblique SMO without fibular osteotomy for medial ankle arthritis and compare them according to the lateral talofibular joint congruity. MethodsForty-eight ankles were retrospectively reviewed and divided according to preoperative talofibular joint congruity (congruent, 22 [45.8%] vs. incongruent, 26 [54.2%]). ResultsThe mean VAS score, AOFAS score, and modified Takakura stage were significantly improved. No significant differences were noted in clinical outcomes, but the mean postoperative tibiotalar angle and difference between the upper and lower talofibular gaps were significantly different in both groups (p = 0.004 and p = 0.009, respectively). The mean Takakura stage at 1 and 2 years after surgery was higher in the incongruent group (p = 0.013, p = 0.012). ConclusionThis procedure was effective against early- to mid-stage medial ankle arthritis. Radiographic arthritic grade changed according to the talofibular joint congruity.

Low tibial valgization osteotomy for varus ankle arthritis – does age effect the outcome?

BackgroundEvidence-based literature identifying the age limit for low tibial valgization osteotomy (LTO) is lacking to date. We addressed the following research questions: (1) is LTO effective for ankle arthritis in patients over 65 years?; (2) does patients’ age alter the effectiveness of LTO?; and (3) does preoperative Takakura stage affect the degree of correction in patients over 65 years? MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed the radiographic and clinical findings of 49 cases which underwent LTO. Patients were divided into two groups according to age at operation (19 cases in group 1 aged ≥65 years and 30 cases in group 2 aged <65). Patients in a single group were regrouped into two subgroups according to preoperative Takakura stage (stage II + IIIA versus IIIB) to determine if the degree of correction varied in Takakura stage IIIB. ResultsSignificant changes in radiographic parameters were observed with no significant differences in the amounts of correction between groups 1 and 2. Comparison of Takakura stage II + IIIA in group 1 to that in group 2 and stage IIIB in group 1 to that in group 2 revealed no significant differences in the amounts of correction. ConclusionLTO could be indicated for patients over 65 years if patient selection was appropriate. LTO in patients over 65 years showed similar radiographic improvements to those in younger patients, and the correction was successfully maintained during the follow-up period. The correctional power of all radiographic parameters did not vary by preoperative Takakura stage. Level of EvidenceLevel III, comparative series

Effects of Supramalleolar Osteotomy on Abnormal Internal Rotation of the Talus in Varus Ankle Osteoarthritis

Category:Ankle Arthritis; Basic Sciences/BiologicsIntroduction/Purpose:Varus ankle osteoarthritis, which is induced by asymmetric joint load in the ankle due to varus malalignment and characterized by a loss of cartilage in the medial talar dome or medial clear space in the ankle mortise, accounts for a large proportion of ankle osteoarthritis osteoarthritis. Realignment surgery, such as supramalleolar osteotomy (SMO) is an effective surgical procedure for treating varus ankle osteoarthritis. In previous study using weightbearing computed tomography (WBCT) by other group, the abnormal internal rotation of the talus was often seen in patients with varus ankle osteoarthritis. We used axial loading three-dimensional computed tomography (AL 3D CT) to evaluate preoperative and postoperative talocrural joints of patients who underwent SMO to treat varus ankle osteoarthritis.Methods:We performed retrospective analyses of 12 patients (14 feet) who underwent SMO and fibular osteotomy. Fibular osteotomy was performed by scarf osteotomy and the center of hinge was fixed with cortical screw. For SMO, distal tibial medial sharp spike of bone produced after the opening wedge osteotomy was resected and used for the autogenous strut bone graft in the osteotomy gap. Tibial-ankle surface angle (TAS), talar tilt angle (TT), Takakura stage, and tibial-lateral surface angle (TLS) was evaluated with weightbearing radiographs before operation and at 2-year follow-up. Talus rotation ration and presence of medial gutter contact was investigated with AL CT before operation and at 6-month follow-up (Figure A-D : preoperative, E-H : postoperative).Clinical outcomes were assessed based on the preoperative and 2-year follow-up American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) scale, visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, and Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM).Results:The mean 2-year follow-up TAS, TT, Takakura stage, and TLS were all significantly different relative to preoperative parameters (P < .05). The mean 6-month follow-up talus rotation ratio was significantly restored compared to preoperative value (P = .001). The mean 2-year follow-up clinical outcomes were all significantly improved relative to preoperative measurements (P = .001). The preoperative talus rotation ratio had moderately positive linear relationships with preoperative Takakura stage and preoperative anterior talar translation (P < .05). Among the variables of interest, preoperative anterior talar translation was most strongly related to the preoperative talus rotation ratio (r = 0.655, P < .05). The postoperative talus rotation ratio had moderately positive linear relationships with postoperative Takakura stage and preoperative talar tilt angle (P < .05).Conclusion:In summary, abnormal internal rotation of the talus in mild to moderate varus ankle osteoarthritis, as observed by AL CT, was significantly restored after SMO combined with fibular osteotomy. SMO yielded successful radiological and clinical outcomes. Based on these results, we believe that correction of abnormal internal rotation of the talus is an important prognostic factor in patients with varus ankle osteoarthritis, and we recommend that clinicians investigate such abnormality perioperatively.

The Radiographic Support for Distal Tibia Medial Opening-Wedge Osteotomy with Fibular Valgization Osteotomy for Medial Ankle Osteoarthritis

Category:Ankle; Ankle ArthritisIntroduction/Purpose:Supramalleolar osteotomy (SMO) has recently been accepted as the major surgical option for treating painful asymmetric ankle arthritis. The effectivenss of additional fibular valgization osteotomy during SMO procedure is still controversial. This study aimed to evaluate radiological and clinical outcomes of medial compartment ankle osteoarthritis (OA) after SMO with fibular valgization osteotomy. Also, the study is aimed to describe the radiographic support for the SMO with additional fibular osteotomy in relieving the medial ankle pain.Methods:The study is based on 45 cases of medial compartment ankle arthritis (43 patients) with moderate to severe medial ankle pain (at least 1-year follow-up). SMO and fibular valgization oblique osteotomy was performed concomitantly in 37 ankles (82.2%). As for the functional evaluation, visual analogue scale (VAS) pain scores, American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot scores and patient satisfaction were evaluated. On radiographs, tibial anterior surface angles (TAS), tibial lateral surface angles (TLS), and talar tilt angles (TT) were measured and the severity of ankle OA was classified by the Takakura stage. The evaluation of the effect of fibular valgization osteotomy entailed a comparison of new radiological measurement (medial clear space gap distance and talus center migaration distance) between two groups: Group 1 (with 37 cases of SMO with fibular valgization osteotomy) and Group 2 (with 8 cases of SMO without fibular valgization osteotomy).Results:The mean VAS pain score decreased from preoperative 6.5 to postoperative 1.3, and AOFAS score significantly improved from preoperative 60.4 to 88.3 at final follow-up. 91 percent (41 ankles) of the patients were satisfied with surgery. Mean TAS improved from preoperative 83.8° to postoperative 94.9° and TLS from 78.5° to 82.0°. 23 of 30 Takakura stage IIIa cases (77%) and 3 of 7 stage IIIb cases (42%) improved to stage II after SMO at final follow-up. Mean fibular valgization osteotomy angle was 12.4°. Medial gutter space gap distance improved from preoperative 0.7mm to postoperative 2.10mm. Talus center migration distance improved from -0.53mm to 2.03mm. Both radiologic parameters showed statistically significant differences between two groups, but there was no correlation between radiologic parameters and clinical outcomes.Conclusion:SMO for the patients with painful medial compartment ankle OA achieved favorable clinical and radiological outcomes. Also, high patient satisfaction (91%) as well as the improvement of Takakura stage was observed. SMO with additional fibular valgization osteotomy yielded widening of medial gutter space and recovery of talus center. Therefore, additional fibular valgization osteotomy during SMO could be optimal surgical option for the recovery of normal ankle mechanical axis.

The Effect of Supramalleolar Osteotomy without Marrow Stimulation on Cartilage Regeneration for Medial Compartment Ankle Osteoarthritis: Second-Look Arthroscopic Evaluation of Cartilage Regeneration

Category:Ankle Arthritis; Ankle; ArthroscopyIntroduction/Purpose:The effect of supramalleolar osteotomy (SMO) without an additional bone marrow-stimulating procedure (BMSP) on articular cartilage regeneration in ankle joint still remains unknown. This study aimed to investigate whether SMO yielded favorable clinical and radiologic outcomes, and to evaluate whether the regeneration of articular cartilage could be observed after SMO without BMSP by second-look arthroscopy.Methods:43 ankles after SMO (mean follow-up: 35.5 months) were retrospectively reviewed. Visual analog scale (VAS) pain score, American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot score, patient satisfaction were used for functional evaluations. The tibial anterior surface angle (TAS) and tibial lateral surface angle (TLS) were measured on radiographs, and ankle osteoarthritis was classified by Takakura stage. Among the 43 patients, 31 underwent ankle arthroscopy prior to SMO, and second-look arthroscopy was performed at 1-year postoperatively. Tibiotalar cartilage regeneration was evaluated according to the modified Outerbridge classification for the 29 patients who had undergone SMO without BMSP.Results:The mean VAS score and AOFAS score significantly improved from 6.4 preoperatively to 1.4 postoperatively and from61.1 preoperatively to 88.4 postoperatively, respectively (P < 0.05). Regarding overall postoperative patient satisfaction, 18 (41.8%) patients reported their satisfaction as excellent, 23 (53.5%) as satisfied. The mean TAS and TLS significantly improved from 83.8° and 94.8° preoperatively to 78.4° and 82.2° postoperatively, respectively (P < 0.05). 23 out of 28 preoperative Takakura stage IIIa cases and 3 out of 7 IIIb cases improved to postoperative stage II. On second-look arthroscopy, cartilage regeneration of the medial compartment of the tibiotalar joint was observed in 26 of 29 patients (89.7%), whereas cartilage deterioration was not observed in any patient.Conclusion:Medial tibio-talar articular cartilage regeneration was observed in most cases (89.7%) of medial compartment ankle osteoarthritis after SMO without BMSP, which was confirmed with second-look arthroscopic evaluation. It also showed satisfactory clinical and radiologic outcomes with high patient satisfaction.

Perioperative axial loading computed tomography findings in varus ankle osteoarthritis: Effect of supramalleolar osteotomy on abnormal internal rotation of the talus

BackgroundWe used axial loading computed tomography (AL CT) to evaluate preoperative and postoperative talocrural joints of patients who underwent supramalleolar osteotomy (SMO) to treat varus ankle osteoarthritis. MethodsWe performed retrospective analyses of 16 patients (18 feet) who underwent SMO including fibular osteotomy. Radiographic assessment was performed with weightbearing radiographs and AL CT. Clinical outcomes were assessed based on American Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) scale, visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, and Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM). ResultsThe mean 2-year follow-up tibial-ankle surface angle, talar tilt angle, Takakura stage, and tibial-lateral surface angle were all significantly different relative to preoperative parameters (P<.05). The mean 6-month follow-up talus rotation ratio was significantly corrected compared to the preoperative value (P=.001). The mean 2-year follow-up AOFAS, VAS at gait, and FAAM scores were all significantly improved relative to preoperative measurements (P=.001). ConclusionsAbnormal internal rotation of the talus in mild to moderate varus ankle osteoarthritis found on AL CT was significantly corrected after SMO. Level of evidenceTherapeutic Level IV

Outcomes Following a Modified Broström Procedure and Arthroscopic Debridement of Medial Gutter Osteoarthritis Combined With Chronic Lateral Ankle Instability

Category:Ankle ArthritisIntroduction/Purpose:There is limited information regarding the outcomes of operative treatment for ankle instability with coexisting arthritic changes in the medial gutter. This study was performed to evaluate the intermediate-term clinical and radiological outcomes following a modified Broström procedure and arthroscopic debridement in middle-aged patients with combined medial gutter osteoarthritis and chronic lateral ankle instability.Methods:Twenty-four patients with medial gutter osteoarthritis related to chronic lateral ankle instability were followed for more than 3 years after operative treatment. All patients showed medial joint space narrowing of Takakura stage II at the time of surgery. The clinical evaluation consisted of the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) score, visual analog scale (VAS) for medial ankle pain during walking, and Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM).Results:Mean AOFAS and FAAM scores significantly improved from 51.2 and 45.7 points preoperatively to 80.3 and 78.4 points at final follow-up, respectively (P < .001). Although mean pain-VAS significantly improved from 6.8 points to 3.1 points (P < .001), 5 patients (20.8%) complained of gait discomfort with considerable pain of 4 or more points. There was only 1 patient (4.2%) with recurrent ankle instability, while 6 patients (25%) showed a progression of arthritis stage.Conclusion:Modified Broström procedure combined with arthroscopic debridement appears to be an effective operative option for medial gutter osteoarthritis secondary to chronic ankle instability. Despite the onset of arthritis, most patients were able to achieve significant improvement in reducing pain while eliminating instability.

Medial Open-Wedge Supramalleolar Osteotomy for Patients with Takakura 3B Ankle Osteoarthritis: A Mid- to Long-Term Study.

It is controversial whether supramalleolar osteotomy is suitable for Takakura Stage 3B osteoarthritis or not. The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of supramalleolar osteotomy in patients with Takakura 3B osteoarthritis. From February 2008 to August 2013, supramalleolar osteotomy was performed in 21 patients matching the inclusion criteria. The mean patient age at operation was 53.7±5.8 years (range: 39 to 61 years). The mean duration of follow-up was 87.7±19.5 months (range: 61 to 125 months). The radiologic evaluation included the tibial articular surface (TAS) angle, tibial lateral surface (TLS) angle, and talar tilt (TT) angle. Functional assessment was performed with use of the AOFAS, VAS, SF-36, and AOS. All patients were followed. TAS angle improved from 82.8±2.4 to 90.3±2.3. TLS angle changed from 77.5±2.8 to 79.4±2.7. The preoperative TT angle and postoperative TT angle were 13.4±3.6 to 4.8±3.6, respectively. For functional evaluation, the preoperative VAS and AOFAS-AH scores were 5.7±1.3 and 48.0±15.8, while the postoperative VAS and AOFAS-AH scores were 2.5±1.9 and 74.8±11.5. The mean SF-36 scale improved from 41.2±13.1 to 66.7±14.9. The AOS score improved from 61.4±12.5 to 27.5±17.8. 1 patient underwent total ankle replacement 3 years postoperatively. 4 patients remained stage 3B including the TAR one. 4 improved to stage 3A, 11 improved to stage 2, and 2 improved to stage 1. Supramalleolar osteotomy combined with auxiliary procedures can restore the malalignment of ankle joint and modify the abnormal stress distribution so as to achieve functional improvement and improve radiographic stages.

Extraarticular Supramalleolar Osteotomy in Asymmetric Varus Ankle Osteoarthritis.

In recent years, supramalleolar osteotomy has become a valuable alternative for treatment of ankle osteoarthritis. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the preoperative stage of ankle osteoarthritis or tilt of the talus in the ankle mortise impacts radiologic and clinical outcomes following a supramalleolar osteotomy. Forty-four patients who underwent a supramalleolar osteotomy for posttraumatic asymmetric varus ankle osteoarthritis were included. Subgroups were formed according to the preoperative stage of ankle osteoarthritis and the tilt of the talus in the ankle mortise. The radiographic and clinical outcomes of each subgroup were compared, and survival rates calculated. Ankles with a preoperative Takakura stage of 2 and 3a showed a significant higher survival rate at 5 years (88% [95% CI, 67-100] and 93% [95% CI, 80-100]) compared with ankles with a preoperative Takakura stage of 3b (47% [95% CI, 26-86]; P = .044). The 5-year survival rate for patients with a preoperative tilt of the talus in the ankle mortise of 4-10 degrees was 85% (95% CI, 68-100), while patients with a preoperative tilt of >10 degrees showed a 5-year survival rate of 65% (95% CI, 46-93; P = .117). Supramalleolar osteotomy was a valuable treatment option for early to mid-stage posttraumatic asymmetric varus ankle osteoarthritis. Level IV, retrospective cohort study.

The preliminary report about the modified supramalleolar tibial osteotomy for asymmetric ankle osteoarthritis.

Supramalleolar tibial osteotomy (SMO) for asymmetric ankle osteoarthritis (OA) is known to lead to satisfactory. Here, authors present a preliminary report on SMO surgical treatment in patients with asymmetric ankle arthritis. We reviewed cases of asymmetric ankle OA treated by modified SMO between January 2011 and October 2015. Clinical assessment was performed with the use of the ankle and hindfoot score of the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS), foot function index, and visual analogue scale (VAS). Patient satisfaction with surgery and postoperative subjective symptoms were examined. Radiographic evaluation included preoperative and postoperative tibial anterior surface angle (TAS angle), talar tilt angle (TT angle), and tibial lateral surface angle (TLS angle). Takakura stage was measured. The average follow-up period was 46.3 months. The AOFAS score was 55.7 ± 6.03 preoperatively and 76.0 ± 4.73 postoperatively. Foot function index was 60.7 ± 8.78 preoperatively and 30.8 ± 7.59 postoperatively. VAS was 7.2 ± 0.53 before surgery and 1.9 ± 0.85 after surgery. Clinical evaluations showed statistically significant improvement. The majority of patients reported satisfactory results in the subjective satisfaction evaluation. TAS angle was 84.6 ± 1.82 preoperatively and 94.0 ± 2.79 postoperatively. TLS angle was 78.8 ± 2.11 preoperatively and 81.8 ± 1.80 postoperatively. TT angle was 3.6 ± 1.26 before surgery and 2.1 ± 0.79 after surgery. Thirteen cases showed radiographic improvement of Takakura stage. Complications were not observed. Modified SMO is a useful procedure that provides for the union and stability of osteotomy with the advantages of the existing SMO and can be performed without bone graft.

Outcome Following a Modified Broström Procedure and Arthroscopic Debridement of Medial Gutter Osteoarthritis Combined With Chronic Ankle Instability.

There is limited information regarding the outcomes of operative treatment for ankle instability with coexisting arthritic changes in the medial gutter. This study was performed to evaluate the intermediate-term clinical and radiological outcomes following a modified Broström procedure and arthroscopic debridement in middle-aged patients with combined medial gutter osteoarthritis and chronic ankle instability. Twenty-two patients with medial gutter osteoarthritis related to chronic lateral ankle instability were followed for more than 3 years after operative treatment. All patients showed medial joint space narrowing of Takakura stage II at the time of surgery. The clinical evaluation consisted of the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) score, visual analog scale (VAS) for medial ankle pain during walking, and Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM). Mean AOFAS and FAAM scores significantly improved from 51.2 and 45.7 points preoperatively to 80.3 and 78.4 points at final follow-up, respectively ( P < .001). Although mean pain-VAS significantly improved from 6.8 points to 3.5 points ( P < .001), 8 patients (36.4%) complained of gait discomfort with considerable pain of 4 or more points. There was only 1 patient (4.5%) with recurrent ankle instability, while 6 patients (27.3%) showed a progression of arthritis stage. Modified Broström procedure combined with arthroscopic debridement appears to be an effective operative option for medial gutter osteoarthritis secondary to chronic ankle instability. Despite the onset of arthritis, most patients were able to achieve significant improvement in reducing pain while eliminating instability. Level IV, retrospective case series.

The Effect of Fibular Osteotomy on Talus Position in Supramalleolar Osteotomy

Category: Ankle Arthritis Introduction/Purpose: A supramalleolar osteotomy (SMO) creates angulation and translation of the ankle joint. However, when the fibular osteotomy was not performed, the amount of shifting of the osteotomized fragment might be limited by the fibula. We use three different radiographic parameters to evaluate the extent of lateral translation of the talus in coronal plane after SMO with or without fibular osteotomy. Methods: Forty-two patients (44 cases) that were followed for more than 6 months after SMO with or without fibular osteotomy were retrospectively reviewed. Their mean (range) age and mean follow-up period were 55.6 years (24–74 years) and 19.9 months (6–84 months), respectively. The American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle Hindfoot score was used for clinical evaluation of the patients. The radiological evaluations included tibial anterior surface (TAS) angle, tibial lateral surface (TLS) angle, talar tilt (TT) angle, tibiocrural (TC) angle, tibio-talar center (TTC) angle, talar center migration (TCM), talar translation ratio (TTR), and Takakura stage. We compared the improvements of the clinical and radiographic parameters between the two groups according to fibular osteotomy, and we assessed the types of complications after surgery. Results: The improvement of the AOFAS Ankle Hindfoot score was 29.9 ± 17.4 in the fibular osteotomy(FO) group and 26.1 ± 13.8 in the fibular preservation (FP) group, without significant difference between the two groups (p = 0.481). The FO group showed a significant improvement in Takakura stage, TAS angle, TT angle, TC angle, TTC angle, TCM, and TTR. No postoperative complication was found in the FO group, but one metal failure was observed in the FP group. Conclusion: Fibular osteotomy showed more satisfactory lateral translation of the talus after SMO and decreased Takakura stage, although the AOFAS Ankle Hindfoot score was not significantly different. Therefore, SMO with fibular osteotomy could result in better radiological parameters in coronal plane for varus ankle osteoarthritis.

Prognosis of Medial Gutter Osteoarthritis Combined with Chronic Ankle Instability

Category: Ankle Arthritis Introduction/Purpose: Although the frequent intraarticular pathologies associated with recurrent ankle sprains are well known, informations regarding treatment method for arthritic changes in the medial gutter are still insufficient. This study was performed to evaluate the intermediate-term clinical and radiological outcomes following modified Broström procedure and arthroscopic debridement in the middle-aged patients. Methods: Twenty-two patients with medial gutter osteoarthritis related to chronic lateral ankle instability were followed for more than 3 years after surgical treatment. All patients showed medial joint space narrowing of Takakura stage 2. The clinical evaluation consisted of the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score, visual analogue scale (VAS) for medial ankle pain during walking, and Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM). Results: Mean AOFAS and FAAM scores significantly improved from 51.2 and 45.7 points preoperatively to 80.3 and 78.4 points at final followup, respectively (P &lt; .001). Although mean pain-VAS significantly improved from 6.8 points to 3.5 points (P &lt; .001), 8 patients (36.4%) complained of discomfort at gait with considerable pain ≥ 4 points. There was only 1 patient (4.5%) with recurrent ankle instability, while 6 patients (27.3%) showed a progression in arthritis stage. Conclusion: Modified Broström procedure concomitant with arthroscopic debridement for medial gutter osteoarthritis secondary to chronic ankle instability is not effective enough to treat the medial ankle pain and functional impairment. Alternative treatment strategies for middle-aged cohort with arthritic changes are needed to improve the clinical outcomes and to prevent a progressive osteoarthritis.

Second-Look Arthroscopic Evaluation and Clinical Outcome After Supramalleolar Osteotomy for Medial Compartment Ankle Osteoarthritis.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiologic outcomes of medial compartment ankle osteoarthritis after supramalleolar osteotomy (SMO) without the bone marrow stimulation procedure and confirm cartilage recovery by second-look arthroscopy. Twenty-two ankles that were followed for more than 1 year after SMO were retrospectively reviewed. Visual analog scale pain scores and American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society ankle-hindfoot scores were used for functional evaluations. The tibial anterior surface angle and tibial lateral surface angle were measured on radiographs, and ankle osteoarthritis was classified by Takakura stage. Among the 22 patients, 21 underwent ankle arthroscopy prior to SMO, and second-look arthroscopy was performed in 16 patients 1 year postoperatively. Tibiotalar cartilage regeneration was evaluated according to the modified Outerbridge classification for the 14 patients who had undergone SMO without the bone marrow stimulation procedure. The mean visual analog scale and American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society scores significantly improved from 6.5 preoperatively to 1.1 postoperatively and from 60.7 preoperatively to 87.1 postoperatively, respectively ( P < .05). The mean tibial anterior surface and tibial lateral surface angles significantly improved from 83.5° and 76.9° preoperatively to 93.8° and 80.2° postoperatively, respectively ( P < .05). All preoperative Takakura stage IIIa cases and IIIb case improved to postoperative stage II. On second-look arthroscopy, cartilage regeneration of the medial compartment of the tibiotalar joint was observed in 12 of 14 patients (85%), whereas cartilage deterioration was not observed in any patient. SMO without the bone marrow stimulation procedure for medial ankle osteoarthritis demonstrated cartilage regeneration in the medial tibiotalar joint in most patients by second-look arthroscopy, as well as satisfactory clinical and radiologic outcomes. Level IV, case series.

Second-Look Arthroscopic Evaluation and Clinical Outcome after the Supramalleolar Osteotomy for the Medial Compartment Ankle Osteoarthritis

Category: Ankle, Ankle Arthritis, Arthroscopy, Hindfoot Introduction/Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes of asymmetric ankle osteoarthritis after supramalleolar osteotomy (SMO) without BMSP(bone marrow stimulation procedure) and confirm cartilage recovery by second look arthroscopy. The hypothesis was that SMO without BMSP for medial compartment ankle osteoarthritis would show tibio-talar articular cartilage regeneration in the medial compartment, as well as satisfactory clinical and radiological outcomes. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 20 ankles of 18 consecutive patients who were followed up for over 1 year after SMO from August 2007 to February 2013. Visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores and the AOFAS ankle-hindfoot scores were used for the functional evaluations. The tibial anterior surface angles and the tibial lateral surface angles were measured on radiographs, and the ankle osteoarthritis was classified by the Takakura stage. Among the 20cases, 19 caseshad ankle arthroscopy performedprior to SMO, and second-look ankle arthroscopywas performed in 14 cases at postoperative 1 year. Tibio-talarcartilage regeneration was evaluatedaccording to the modified Outerbridge classification for the 12 cases that had undergone SMO without a bone marrow–stimulating procedure (BMSP). Results: The mean VAS and AOFAS scores significantly improved from 6.7 preoperatively to 1.2 postoperatively and from 60.9 preoperatively to 87.9 postoperatively, respectively (P&lt;0.05). The mean TAS and TLS angles significantly improved from 83.5? and 76.5preoperatively to 94.4? and 80.3? postoperatively respectively (P&lt;0.05). All preoperative TakakurastageIIIa cases and 1 case of preoperative stage IIIb improved to postoperative stage II. At 2nd look arthroscopy, articular cartilage regeneration of the medial compartment of the tibio-talar joint was observed in 10 of 12 cases (83%), whereas cartilage deterioration was not observed in any case.Cartilage grading, however, did not show correlations with clinical outcomes. Conclusion: SMO without BMSP for medial compartment ankle osteoarthritis demonstrated marked tibio-talar articular cartilage regeneration in the medial compartment (83%) by second look arthroscopy, as well as satisfactory clinical and radiological outcomes.

Radiological and clinical outcome of lateral ankle instability with medial compartment osteoarthritis

Category: Ankle, Ankle Arthritis, osteoarthritis, ankle instability Introduction/Purpose: When lateral ankle instability (LAI) is not treated for long period, unbalanced loading on medial ankle may proceed to osteoarthritis (OA). Outcome studies about osteoarthritis with lateral ankle instability after stabilization, however, have rarely been reported. The authors have investigated the radiological and clinical outcome of ligament stabilization for LAI with medial compartment OA. Methods: The study is based on 25 ankles of LAI with medial compartment ankle OA that underwent lateral ankle ligament reconstruction from 2007 to 2014 with at least 1 year follow-up. The medial ankle OA was diagnosed with degenerative change of medial ankle on plain X-ray or MRI or arthroscopic findings. The OA was classified using Takakura stage, and arthroscopic degenerative change was classified by modified Outerbridge grading. Ligament stabilization surgery was done using either modified Broström procedure or lateral ligament reconstruction using semitendinosus tendon allograft. Arthroscopic synovectomy, debridement, and microfracture for osteochondral lesion were performed when needed. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using visual analogue scale (VAS) pain score, American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot score, Karlsson- Peterson score, and subjective patient satisfaction. Statistical analysis were done using Wilcoxon signed rank test. Results: The average instability duration was 98 (range, 12-480) months and the average follow up period was 46 (range, 13-108) months. Preoperative Takakura stage was mostly I (n=19, 76%) and II (n=4, 17%), and was same postoperatively. MRI OA findings of 18 ankles were medial cartilage denudation (17%), cartilage thinning/erosion (44%), medial osteophyte (50%), and loose bodies (30%). Modified Outerbridge grade 2 and 4 were most common (both 41%). The VAS pain score decreased from 6.1 ± 1.6 preoperatively to 1.8 ± 1.6 postoperatively (P&lt;0.05). The AOFAS score improved from 61.8 ± 14.7 preoperatively to 90.0 ± 6.3 postoperatively, and the Karlsson-Peterson score improved from 54.5 ±14.4 to 89.4 ± 8.4 (P&lt;0.05). There were no significant complications. All patients were satisfied. Conclusion: Ligament stabilization accompanied with arthroscopic procedure could draw good outcome, even without structural bony deformity correction. Even with no improvement in plain radiograph, functional score could be improved.

Mid- to Long-Term Results of Supramalleolar Osteotomy

Category: Ankle Arthritis Introduction/Purpose: Good clinical and radiographic short-term results have been reported for patients who underwent realignment surgery of the hindfoot for treatment of early- and mid-stage ankle osteoarthritis. However, no mid- to long-term results have been reported. The aim of this study was to gain a better insight on the indications and contraindications for supramalleolar osteotomies. More specific, we assessed the survival rate of a consecutive cohort of 294 patients who underwent supramalleolar osteotomy for ankle osteoarthritis and investigated the effect on functional outcome, pain relief and patients’ satisfaction. Risk factors for failure were additionally determined. We hypothesized, that realignment surgery is a valuable treatment option for young and physically active patients suffering from early to mid-stage ankle osteoarthritis. Methods: Two hundred and ninety-four patients (298 ankles) underwent realignment surgery between December 1999 and June 2013 in our institution. For four patients who were operated on both feet, only the measurements from the foot operated first were used for further analysis. The patients were assessed clinically and radiographically preoperatively, six and 16 weeks postoperatively and thereafter annually. The examination was done by independent examiners who were not involved in the treatment of the patients or analysis of the data. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was performed with total ankle replacement and arthrodesis of the ankle joint as endpoints. A Cox proportional hazards model was performed to identify risk factors for failure. Results: The mean time to follow-up was 5.0 ± 3.7 years. The overall five-year survival rate was 88%. Thirty-eight patients (12.9%) either underwent secondary total ankle replacement or ankle arthrodesis (thirty total ankle replacements, eight ankle arthrodesis). A lost to follow-up was reported in eleven patients (3.7%). Overall, the AOFAS Hindfoot score increased from 53.2 preoperatively (SD, 19.9) to 72.7 (SD, 19.2) postoperatively. Risk factors for failure following realignment surgery were age at the time of surgery and a Takakura score of 3b preoperatively. An interaction by trend was also found between age and smoking, indicating that the increased risk in elderly patients was larger in smokers than in non-smokers at the time of surgery. Conclusion: We found good mid- to long-term results for supramalleolar osteotomies in patients with ankle osteoarthritis. The present data suggests that corrective osteotomies need to be considered in the surgical treatment of young and active patients with early- to mid-stage ankle osteoarthritis (Takakura stage 1 to 3a). This is particularly important, as ankle replacement at young age cannot be considered a lifetime solution. However, care should be taken in elderly patients who smoke at the time of surgery.

Supramalleolar osteotomy treatment of varus ankle osteoarthritis with or without fibular osteotomy

To compare the functional and radiological outcomes of supramalleolar osteotomy (SMOT) between with and without fibular osteotomy for varus ankle osteoarthritis. Between April 2009 and April 2014, 41 patients (41 feet) with mid-staged varus ankle osteoarthritis were treated with SMOT. Fibular osteotomy was not performed in 19 cases (group A), and fibular osteotomy was performed in 22 cases (group B). There was no significant difference in gender, age, side, body mass index, osteoarthritis stage, pathogeny, American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hind score, ankle osteoarthritis scale (AOS) pain and function scores, range of motion (ROM) of the ankle joint, tibial articular surface angle (TAS), talar tilt angle (TT), tibiocrural angle (TC), and tibial lateral surface angle (TLS) between 2 groups ( P>0.05). The bone union was observed after operation, and functional and radiological outcomes were compared between 2 groups at last follow-up. All incisions healed by stage I, and no surgery related complications occurred. The mean follow-up time was 36.6 months (range, 16-55 months). Pain and limited activity were observed in 1 case of groups A and B respectively, and ankle arthrodesis was performed. All cases achieved bony union; the bone union time was (3.6±0.4) months in group A and (3.9±0.7) months in group B, showing no significant difference ( t=1.61, P=0.12). At last follow-up, no significant difference was found in TAS, TLS, TT, and TC between groups ( P>0.05). However, group B was significantly better than group A in improvement of TT and TC ( P<0.05). The AOFAS ankle-hind score, AOS pain and function scores, ROM of the ankle joint showed no significant difference between groups ( P>0.05). According to the modified Takakura stage, the improvement rates of groups A and B were 55.6% and 57.1%, respectively; no significant difference was found between 2 groups ( χ2=0.01, P=0.92). SMOT with fibular osteotomy is helpful in correction of TT and TC in patients with relative longer fibula.