Technique For Arthrodesis Research Articles

Outcome, Complications, and Follow-Up in Dogs Treated with Pancarpal Arthrodesis Stabilized with Orthogonal Plates.

Pancarpal arthrodesis was performed in 21 dogs, using orthogonal (cranial/dorsal and medial) plates without postoperative rigid external coaptation. Short-term and long-term outcomes, arthrodesis progression, and complications were assessed using a retrospective review of case records and radiographs. Three of 21 (14.2%) dogs required a revision surgery: 2 had total implant explantation and 1 had a screw removed. Other complications were managed successfully medically. One of 21 (4.8%) dogs had confirmed deep surgical site infection requiring implant removal, and 4 of 21 (19%) had suspected (not confirmed on microbiology) superficial surgical site infections that resolved with medical management. Long-term outcomes were assessed via owner questionnaire (Canine Brief Pain Inventory) and were available for nine dogs at a mean of 26.78 mo after surgery. The mean score for the first part (assessment of pain) was 7.83/40, which is classified as no pain to mild pain. The mean score for the second part (assessment of function) was 12.67/60, which is classified as very good. The last part (overall impression) was defined as excellent in four dogs (44.44%), very good in one dog (11.11%), and good in the other four dogs (44.44%). This retrospective study documents a suitable technique for pancarpal arthrodesis in dogs with carpal injuries.

Radiographic and Clinical Outcomes of First Tarsometatarsal Joint Arthrodesis With a Biplanar Locking Plate System Versus the Modified Lapidus Technique With Crossed-Screw Fixation: A Retrospective Multicenter Comparison

Background: Hallux valgus (HV) is recognized as a triplanar deformity. A biplanar locking plate (BLP) system corrects this deformity through first tarsometatarsal joint (TMTJ) arthrodesis, with specialized reduction tools and cutting guides. Yet the optimal surgical technique and fixation construct for first TMTJ arthrodesis remains controversial. Purpose: We sought to compare the BLP system with a modified Lapidus (ML) technique with crossed-screw fixation in terms of radiographic outcomes, complications, and reoperations. Methods: In this retrospective multicenter study, we identified a series of consecutive patients who underwent first TMTJ arthrodesis for HV with either the ML procedure at institution A or the BLP system at institution B. Patients 18 years of age with a minimum of 6 months of postoperative radiographs were included. There were 130 patients, 65 in each group, including 121 women (93.8%) with a median age of 58 years and mean radiographic follow-up of 7.1 months. Data included preoperative and postoperative HV angle (HVA), intermetatarsal angle (IMA), and tibial sesamoid position (TSP), plus complications and reoperations. Statistical testing included Mann-Whitney U, Wilcoxon signed rank, Fisher exact, McNemar, and multivariable regression. Results: After adjusting for confounding variables, the BLP system was associated with significantly greater improvements in postoperative IMA and HVA but not TSP. There were no significant differences in rates of complications (ML: 18.4%; BLP: 9.2%) or reoperations (ML: 4.6%; BLP: 7.7%). Conclusion: This retrospective multicenter review found that the BLP system was associated with greater improvement in radiographic HV parameters compared with the ML procedure using crossed-screw fixation. Clinical significance is unclear as complication and reoperation rates were similar between groups. Further study in this regard is warranted.

A biomechanical study comparing the compression force and osseous area of contact of two screws fixation techniques used in ankle joint arthrodesis model

IntroductionArthrodesis of a (diseased) ankle joint is usually performed to achieve pain relief and stability. One basic principle of arthrodesis techniques includes rigid fixation of the surfaces until union. It seems plausible that stable anchoring and homogeneous pressure distribution should be advantageous, however, it has not been investigated yet. The aim is to achieve uniform compression, as this is expected to produce favorable results for the bony fusion of the intended arthrodesis. Numerous implants with different biomechanical concepts can be used for ankle fusion. In this study, headless compression screws (HCS, DePuy Synthes, Zuchwil, Switzerland) were compared biomechanically to an alternative fixation System, the IOFix device (Extremity Medical, Parsippany, NJ, USA) in regard to the distribution of the compression force (area of contact) and peak compression in a sawbone arthrodesis-model (Sawbones® Pacific Research Laboratories, Vashon, WA, USA).This study aims to quantify the area of contact between the bone interface that can be obtained using headless compression screws compared to the IOFix. In current literature, it is assumed, that a large contact surface with sufficient pressure between the bones brings good clinical results. However, there are no clinical or biomechanical studies, that describe the optimal compression pressure for an arthrodesis.Material and methodsTwo standardized sawbone blocks were placed above each other in a custom-made jig. IOFix and headless compression screws were inserted pairwise parallel to each other using a template for a uniform drilling pattern. All screws were inserted with a predefined torque of 0.5 Nm. Pressure transducers positioned between the two sawbone blocks were compressed for the measurement of peak compression force, compression distribution, and area of contact.ResultsWith the IOFix, the compression force was distributed over significantly larger areas compared to the contact area of the HCS screws, resulting in a more homogenous contact area over the entire arthrodesis surface. Maximum compression force showed no significant difference.ConclusionThe IOFix system distributes the compression pressure over a much larger area, resulting in more evenly spread compression at the surface. Clinical studies must show whether this leads to a lower pseudarthrosis rate.

Modified Atlantoaxial Arthrodesis Technique for Atlantoaxial Instability via Intraarticular Autografting Using Structural Iliac Bone: Technical Nuances and Case Series

ObjectiveThe present study described a modified technique of atlantoaxial arthrodesis in patients with atlantoaxial instability (AAI) along with the postoperative clinical and radiological results. MethodsFive patients underwent this method for their AAI concurrent with C1 arch hypoplasia and/or the development of odontoid pannus causing myelopathy. After thorough exposure of the posterior surface of the C1-2 complex, the bilateral C2 nerve roots were sectioned to allow for easier access to the C1/2 facet joints. To prepare a suitable grafting bed, the C1/2 facet capsule was opened, then the articular cartilaginous and synovial tissues were thoroughly removed. After being properly fashioned to match the gap between the C1/2 facet joint spaces, the structural bone grafts from the iliac crest were directly inserted into the facet joint spaces. To alleviate cord compression caused by concomitant odontoid pannus and/or hypoplastic C1 arch, C1 laminectomy was necessitated in all cases. Subsequently, posterior screw-rod instrumental fixation was conducted. ResultsAll five patients underwent this procedure successfully. Clinical and radiological follow-up data of all patients indicated favorable relief of clinical symptoms and early rigid C1-2 stability. The sequelae of C2 nerve resection were not remarkable. No other neural or vascular damage associated with this technique was observed. ConclusionModified atlantoaxial arthrodesis via intraarticular autografting using the structural iliac bone combined with posterior instrumentation appears to be an efficient alternative treatment method for AAI patients with concurrent pathologies, even when the C1-2 posterior arches are unavailable for the grafting bed.

Evaluating inter- and intraobserver reliability in radiographic determination of wrist alignment following scaphoid excision and four-corner arthrodesis

BackgroundFour-corner arthrodesis is commonly performed for advanced collapse patterns of wrist arthritis. Reduction of the capitolunate (CL) angle during four-corner fusion is crucial to allow for the greatest radiocarpal joint arc of motion. Previous studies demonstrate variable inter- and intraobserver reliability of measuring the CL angle. However, in a four-corner fusion, hardware implementation and scaphoid excision can complicate carpal alignment measurements. The purpose of this study is to investigate inter- and intraobserver reliability of measuring carpal alignment parameters following scaphoid excision and four-corner arthrodesis. MethodsThree fellowship-trained orthopaedic hand surgeons evaluated 30 posteroanterior and lateral radiographs of wrists after scaphoid excision and four-corner fusion. Radiographic evaluation included analysis of the radiolunate angle (RL), CL angle, lunate posture, carpal height, carpal height ratio, hardware impingement, and arthrodesis technique. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) and kappa values were used to evaluate reliability of radiographic measurements. ResultsRL and CL angles demonstrated very good inter- (ICCs: 0.657 and 0.693, respectively) and intraobserver agreement (ICCs: 0.576 to 0.924 and 0.596 to 0.811, respectively). Hardware impingement metrics by dorsal prominence and radiocarpal prominence had excellent interobserver reliability of 0.821 and 0.803, respectively. ICC values for arthrodesis technique were equal to 1.00. The inter- and intraobserver ICC values for the number of screws/staples used were in excellent agreement ranging from 0.910 to 1.000. ConclusionsOur study demonstrated favorable intra- and interobserver reliability at assessing carpal alignment following scaphoid excision and four-corner arthrodesis and these metrics potentially could be used in future research to evaluate long-term surgical outcomes. Level of evidenceLevel III, retrospective cohort study.

Ankle arthrodesis through minimally-invasive transfibular approach: a new surgical technique.

The purpose of our work was to demonstrate the surgical technique of ankle arthrodesis using the minimally-invasive transfibular (MITF) approach, which minimizes soft tissue damage and is advantageous for high-risk patients. In this prospective study, a total of 12 patients with end-stage varus ankle osteoarthritis, including high-risk individuals, underwent ankle arthrodesis using the MITF approach. The technique involves a unique osteotomy at the joint space level, minimizing soft tissue detachment from the fibula. The primary outcomes assessed included bony union, time to weight-bearing, correction of varus deformity, and functional outcomes measured by the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot scale. However, the study's limitations encompass a small sample size and the absence of a control group. At 6months post-operation, all patients achieved bony union, with a mean time to union of 13.7 ± 5.2weeks. The average time to initiate weight-bearing without additional support was 11.2 ± 3.8weeks. Preoperative varus deformity (17.08 ± 8.36 degrees) and talar tilt (8.75 ± 4.33 degrees) were successfully corrected, with postoperative alignment within 0-5 degrees of valgus. Functional outcomes showed a significant improvement in AOFAS scores from 37.83 ± 7.79 points preoperatively to 77.42 ± 5.63 points one year after surgery (p = 0.002). Minor complications occurred in two patients, both effectively treated with local therapy and antibiotics. The MITF approach for ankle arthrodesis demonstrates promising results in addressing end-stage varus ankle osteoarthritis, even in high-risk patients. However, the study's limitations highlight the need for a prospective comparative clinical trial with a larger sample size to ascertain the technique's effectiveness and safety definitively.

EARLY RESULTS OF SHOULDER ARTHRODESIS WITH 3D-TITANIUM IMPLANTS FOR TREATMENT OF SEVERE GUNSHOT WOUNDS OF THE SHOULDER GIRDLE

As a result of large-scale war in Ukraine, the frequency of gunshot wounds of the upper extremities has increased dramatically, accompanied by massive damage to soft tissue, neurovascular plexuses, and significant bone deficiency, so their treatment with traditional methods is risky. This leads to the development of new treatment methods, in particular, techniques for shoulder arthrodesis. Objective. To investigate the effectiveness of shoulder arthrodesis using an individual 3D-titanium implant and or a locked compression plate (LCP) with bone autoplasty for the treatment of severe combat trauma of the upper extremity. Methods. In 2022–2023, 19 men aged 36.2 (24–52) years with severe combat trauma of the upper extremity underwent shoulder arthrodesis using individual 3D-titanium implants (n = 9) or LCP with bone autoplasty (n = 10). The follow-up period was 18 months. Individual 3D-implants were created in the CAD program Autodesk Fusion 360 and made of Ti6AI4V alloy by three- dimensional metal 3D-printing. The functional status of the shoulder joint was assessed by the Oxford Shoulder Score, VAS at 6 and 12 months after surgery. Fusion was checked radiographically at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months. Results. The average follow-up period was 12 months. Ankylosis of the shoulder joint was formed in 18 (95 %) patients, and clinical consolidation without final restructuring with a positive tendency to bone fusion was detected in one patient (5 %). Radiologically confirmed fusion in 8.5 months (6–12). After 12 months, a decrease in pain (VAS: 5 to 1 points; p < 0.001) and improvement in the condition of the shoulder (Oxford Shoulder Score: 25 to 40 points, p < 0.001) were found compared with 6 months. Conclusions. Treatment of severe combat trauma of the upper extremity by shoulder arthrodesis allows to eliminate pain and restore sufficient function to perform daily tasks one year after surgery. The combination of shoulder arthrodesis with individual 3D-implants resulted in the restoration of upper limb function in all 9 patients with massive bone and muscle defects.

Arthroscopic Tibiotalar Arthrodesis Using an Arthroscopic Autologous Tissue Collector: A Technique Guide

Tibiotalar arthrodesis is a common procedure performed in patients with ankle arthritis to relieve pain, restore function, and improve the quality of life. Obtaining proper bone-to-bone apposition is crucial to obtaining a solid fusion. Therefore, adequate joint preparation is critical. Open-joint preparation is the standard of care, but arthroscopic arthrodesis is becoming increasingly popular, as it can decrease tissue trauma, postoperative pain, hospital stay, and complications. The addition of bone matrix allograft and autograft also improves healing rates. Use of an arthroscopic autologous tissue collector through standard arthroscopic portals allows harvesting of bone matrix autograft without having to perform additional invasive bone harvesting outside of the affected joint. We present our technique for tibiotalar arthrodesis using an arthroscopic approach with an arthroscopic autologous tissue collector.

Modified Gritti-Stokes amputation: tips and tricks.

Major amputations of the lower extremity may be required after trauma and a variety of underlying diseases such as peripheral vascular disease, diabetes, and malignancies. The goal of any major amputation is an optimal functional result with a maximum limb length in combination with optimal wound healing. The preservation of the knee joint is essential for successful rehabilitation, and this is best achieved by the Burgess below-knee amputation (BKA). Whenever a BKA is not possible, the Gritti-Stokes amputation is our first choice. This technique mainly consists of a through-knee amputation with the creation of a pedicled patella flap consisting of the patella, patellar ligament, and overlying soft tissue. After osteotomy of the distal femur and resection of the articular surface of the patella, the anterior flap is rotated in order to cover the femur defect while performing a patellofemoral arthrodesis. The aim of this paper is to describe our surgical technique and experience with GSA and to point out the important steps of this procedure. In conclusion, GSA is an excellent surgical option for patients requiring major lower limb amputations where BKA cannot be considered. Particular attention must be paid to careful preoperative evaluation and optimization of comorbidities. A meticulous surgical technique is warranted, including atraumatic tissue handling and an optimal patellofemoral arthrodesis technique.

Comparison of Fusion Rates/Complications Between Different Types of Thumb Metacarpophalangeal Fusion Techniques.

Thumb metacarpophalangeal (MP) fusion is generally successful; however, complications have been reported to occur in 0% to 30% of cases, whereas nonunion rates vary by method but, overall, are reported to occur in 0% to 15% of cases. Many fixation techniques have been described, but there is no consensus on the optimal fusion technique. Our goal was to compare complication and union rates of different thumb MP arthrodesis techniques. We performed a retrospective review of patients who underwent primary thumb MP fusion between 2000 and 2022. Patients who underwent revision fusion, fusion for infection, or amputation were excluded. Fusions of MP joints of other fingers were also excluded. Data collection consisted of demographic data, complications, time to fusion, rate of delayed union and rate of nonunion. Five different fusion constructs were evaluated during our study period: staples, Kirschner wires (K-wires), cerclage, K-wires with cerclage, and intramedullary screw. Forty-seven patients underwent fusion with staples, 16 with K-wires, 14 with cerclage, 9 with K-wires and cerclage, and 6 with an intramedullary screw. The individual complication and nonunion rates differed significantly among the groups with the intramedullary screw group having a statistically higher rate of nonunion (P = .004). Furthermore, smoking, diabetes, and being overweight were associated with nonunions. Union rates were significantly lower in patients treated with an intramedullary screw and those who are smokers, diabetics, and/or overweight. Caution should be exercised when using intramedullary screw fixation for MP fusion, especially in patients with these comorbidities.

Limb salvage reconstruction of the lower limb with complex ankle arthrodesis and magnetic internal lengthening nail.

With advances in orthopedic implants, the use of intramedullary lengthening devices has gained increasing popularity as an alternative technique compared to lengthening with external fixators, with alleged comparable or better outcomes. The aim of this study is to report our single-center technique and outcomes of combined ankle arthrodesis and proximal tibial lengthening using external fixator with a motorized intramedullary nail, respectively. Fourteen patients with post-traumatic advanced ankle arthritis underwent staged ankle arthrodesis with external fixator and proximal tibial lengthening using the PRECICE® ILN. Amount of shortening, length achieved, bone healing index, infection rate, ankle fusion rate, and ASAMI score were evaluated. The average age was 44 years old (range, 30-62). The mean follow up is 70 months (range, 43-121.4). The average amount of limb shortening for patients after ankle fusion was 36.7 mm (18-50) while lengthening was 35.9 mm (range, 18-50). Patients had the nail implanted for an average of 479 days (range, 248-730). Ankle fusions were healed in an average of 178.3 days. There were no surgical infections. All osteotomy-lengthening sites healed after an average 202 days (106-365). The mean bone healing index (BHI) was 56.0 days/cm (21.2-123.6) among the whole cohort. There were no cases of nonunion. ASAMI bone scores were excellent or good among all patients. Ankle arthrodesis with external fixation along with proximal tibial lengthening using motorized IMN yielded high rates of fusion and successful lengthening. This technique could be offered as a reasonable alternative to using external fixation for both purposes. Level IV, Retrospective cohort study.

Outcomes of Thumb Carpometacarpal Joint Osteoarthritis Treated with Arthroscopic Fusion.

Background The thumb carpometacarpal joint (CMCJ) osteoarthritis is one of the most common pathologies in the hand with controversial treatment options. Description of Technique Describe the use of arthroscopic technique for thumb CMCJ arthrodesis and the clinical outcome. Patients and Methods Cases with Eaton III thumb CMCJ osteoarthritis treated with arthroscopic arthrodesis were reviewed. Patient evaluations include: grip strength, pinch strength, range of motion, Kapandji score, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire, and the visual analog scores for pain. All cases were assessed before the surgery and at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months after surgery. Radiographs were reviewed. Results There were total 16 patients with 18 arthrodesis performed. The average age was 62.2 years with M:F ratio of 2:7. The average follow-up time was 57.2 months. There was improvement of pain score as early as at postop 3 months ( p < 0.001) and continued to improve at 6, 12, and 24 months. There was improvement of grip strength and pinch strength at 12 and 24 months (p < 0.001). The DASH score showed improvement as early as at 3 months ( p = 0.012). There was a reduction of Kapandji score and interphalangeal joint motion at 3 months postop, but these returned to normal at 6 months. There was no major complication. There was one case of nonunion (5.6%). Conclusion Arthroscopic arthrodesis is a feasible treatment option and provides excellent pain relief, restore thumb strength and stability, retain functional thumb mobility, and hence improvement in hand function.

Effect of intraoperative hand-grip position on surgical outcome of thumb carpometacarpal arthrodesis

BackgroundA variety of surgical techniques had been developed over the past few decades for treating thumb carpometacarpal joint (CMCJ) osteoarthritis (OA). However, there are currently no accepted consensus on the ideal treatment for thumb CMCJ OA. Arthrodesis was one of the widely popular treatment methods; however, studies have showed that non-union rates were as high as 50%, with higher complications such as osteoarthritis of neighbouring joints and higher revision surgeries required as compared to other surgical methods. Patients with arthrodesis were also reported to have decreased thumb range of motion and loss of opponens function. Currently, there are numerous intraoperative positioning techniques for arthrodesis which could be confusing for young surgeons. With recent developments of fixation plates and better understanding of the wrist anatomy, this retrospective review aimed to evaluate the efficacy of our intraoperative hand-grip positioning method for arthrodesis of thumb CMCJ OA. What are the postoperative functional outcomes of (1) T-hook plates and (2) our intraoperative hand-grip positioning method for Eaton III thumb CMCJ OA arthrodesis by evaluating pain visual analogue scale (VAS) score, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaires (DASH), Mayo Wrist scores, capability of thumb opposition (Kapandji score), and comparing pre- and postoperative grip and pinch strength?MethodsTwenty patients with CMCJ OA underwent arthrodesis using our intraoperative hand-grip positioning method and T-hook plates and screws (Acumed, USA). Patients were evaluated preoperatively and at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months postoperatively. Radiologic assessment including fusion evaluation, evaluation of radial and palmar abduction angles was done on hand X-rays.ResultsTwenty patients with a minimum follow-up duration of 12 months were included in this study. 100% fusion rate was achieved with only 1 case of complication involving radial sensory nerve neuropathy which was resolved after removal of implant and neurolysis. Significant improvement in pain and Mayo Wrist scores were noted 3 months postoperatively, whilst DASH score exhibited significant improvements after 6 months of follow-up (p < 0.05). Even though there were no significant differences observed between preoperative and postoperative grip strength, pinch strength and Kapandji scores, positive recovery trends were noted for all parameters with these functions surpassing preoperative levels after 12 months of follow-up. Significant improvements on hand X-rays were also noted for both postoperative radial and palmar abduction angles.ConclusionsThere is currently no consensus on the ideal treatment method for thumb CMCJ OA. In this study, we would like to propose a simple intraoperative hand-grip positioning method with T-hook plates for arthrodesis. As seen from our results, our technique was able to provide satisfactory and replicable postoperative results and thus we would like to propose our hand-grip positioning method with T-hook plates fixation for subsequent treatment of patients with Eaton stage III thumb CMCJ OA.

Experimental study of the use of oseto-cellular grafts in wrist arthrodesis

Introduction. Wrist arthrodesis is a surgery performed in advanced osteoarthritis of the wrist joint of various etiology, posttraumatic consequences or diseases of carpal bones. It is a rescue surgery and is performed with the cost of losing of range of movement, but remove the pain syndrome and increase the strength of the hand. Aim of study. Evaluation of osteo-cellular grafts (OCG) using in wrist arthrodesis in experimental study on laboratory animals. Material and Methods. The study was based on experimental research on 21 New Zealand rabbits, splited in 3 study groups. As methods of implementation of the study included: preparation of allogeneic demineralized bone grafts, bone marrow sampling and isolation of autologous stem cells, obtaining OCG, and performing 3 different techniques of wrist arthrodesis. Results. Imagistic results showed us, that the group were performed arthrodesis using combined graft with stem cells, the ankylosis were achieved faster. Histological examinations indicated more active involvement in the process of osteogenesis in the use of combined stem cell transplantation. Conclusion. Our study showed that compared to the control group, the arthrodesis of the wrist using the allograft have good impact in the process of osteogenesis, but the best results were performed by using allograft combined with stem cells.

Palmar midcarpal instability a narrative review of the literature: Have we reached a consensus on a treatment?

Palmar midcarpal instability (PMCI) is a wrist condition that requires treatment through non-surgical rehabilitation programs or surgical stabilization. This condition's natural history is poorly understood, and the optimal treatment approach remains unknown. Non-surgical treatments are initially implemented, followed by surgical stabilization if necessary. Arthrodesis and soft tissue stabilization are the two main surgical options for PMCI, with no established gold standard for treatment.A systematic review of 12 articles comparing arthrodesis and soft tissue stabilization was conducted to identify the optimal treatment approach for PMCI. Arthrodesis techniques, such as lunotriquetral arthrodesis, showed high functional outcomes but also high reintervention rates due to nonunion. Soft tissue stabilization techniques showed superior functional outcomes with less mobility loss and lower reintervention rates compared to arthrodesis. However, more studies are required to determine the optimal soft tissue technique.Based on this review we created a treatment algorithm for PMCI starting with non-surgical treatment first, followed by surgical stabilization if needed. Soft tissue stabilization techniques are preferred over arthrodesis due to better functional outcomes and lower reintervention rates. However, each patient's treatment approach should be individualized and evaluated independently to determine the best course of action.PMCI is a rare wrist condition, and further research is needed to better understand its natural history and establish a gold standard for treatment. The lack of literature comparing the two surgical options underscores the need for further research to determine the optimal treatment approach. Nonetheless, the current evidence suggests that soft tissue stabilization is a promising alternative to arthrodesis, providing superior functional outcomes and lower reintervention rates.

Clinical outcomes following tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis with intramedullary nailing combined with partial fibulectomy and onlay bone graft.

Although intramedullary nailing is a popular method for tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis, nonunion is one of the most commonly reported complications. This study aimed to evaluate the fusion rate, improvement in functional outcomes, and occurrence of complications in tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis using retrograde intramedullary nailing with partial fibulectomy and onlay bone graft technique. Twenty-six consecutive patients using the proposed technique were retrospectively reviewed. For radiographic outcomes, the union rate, alignment, and any related complications were assessed. Functional outcomes were evaluated using the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society hindfoot scale, Foot and Ankle Outcome Score, and visual analog scale, preoperatively and at the final follow-up. The mean follow-up period was 38.2months. The tibiotalar joint achieved complete union in 80.8% at six months postoperatively, while all the cases achieved complete union at 12months postoperatively. However, the subtalar joint achieved complete union in 26.9% at six months postoperatively, which gradually increased to 73.1% at 12months postoperatively, and 80.8% at the final follow-up without revision surgery. A subgroup analysis showed there was a trend of higher subtalar fusion rate when an additional screw for the subtalar joint fixation was placed (86.7% vs. 54.5%). The functional outcomes significantly improved at the final follow-up. A few minor complications occurred, including surgical site infection, irritational symptoms, and metal failure; however, they eventually resolved. Our technique of tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis with partial fibulectomy and onlay bone grafting could be a good option where both the tibiotalar and subtalar joints need to be fused.

Arthrodesis of the interphalangeal joints of the hand by two-dimensional intraosseous wiring

BackgroundNumerous techniques for arthrodesis have been described to fix interphalangeal (IP) joints, and the fixation method should be considered on a case-by-case basis. This study aimed to investigate the availability of IP joint arthrodesis of the hand, using a two-dimensional intraosseous wiring (two-DIOW) method.MethodsA total of 43 joints (19 thumb IP joints, 9 proximal finger interphalangeal (PIP) joints and 15 distal interphalangeal (DIP) joints in 29 patients with a mean age of 66 years (range, 24–85 y) were retrospectively analyzed. All operations were performed with two-DIOW method. We evaluated the bone union rate, correction loss, presence of any surgical complications, and oral steroid use in cases of joint fixation using the two-DIOW method.ResultsOf these 43 digits, 42 achieved bone union (97.7%). Non-union was seen in a thumb IP joint of mutilans rheumatoid arthritis. Mean correction loss of deviation was 1.0°, and flexion or extension angulation was 1.6° in the direction of extension. Surgical complications included mild nail deformity in 2 digits and wire irritation necessitating wire removal in 2 digits. Oral steroids were used for 18 of the 43 digits, including 2 digits complicated by nail deformities. There was no infection and skin necrosis in all digits with or without steroid use.ConclusionsThe two-DIOW method appears to offer an effective method of IP joint fixation, but caution should be exercised in digits of severe joint destruction and in the treatment of wire knot.

Subtalar Distraction Bone Block Arthrodesis for Calcaneus Fracture Malunion

Intra-articular calcaneus fractures are associated with a high rate of malunion resulting in hindfoot and ankle impingement, peroneal tendinitis, sural neuritis, arthritis, hindfoot varus or valgus deformity, loss of hindfoot height, and resulting gastrocnemius-soleus complex weakness and gait dysfunction. These issues can arise whether the patient’s injury is treated conservatively with non–weight-bearing precautions, neglected/missed, or treated surgically with open reduction and internal fixation. The sequelae of calcaneal malunions can arise early or late in this process. For patients undergoing subtalar arthrodesis following calcaneus fracture malunion, the use of a bone block wedge can assist with achieving a stable ,well-aligned, pain-free hindfoot. Patient selection, preoperative planning, careful surgical technique, and compliance with postoperative care pathways are critical to optimize patient outcomes and healing of this complex reconstruction. Recent evidence supports the utility of weight-bearing CT to assist with preoperative planning for subtalar arthrodesis. Wedges used in subtalar distraction arthrodesis include bulk autograft (tricortical iliac crest), allograft (pre-fashioned or intraoperatively fashioned wedges from femoral head allograft or other source), and metallic wedges. These wedges are typically secured with screws spanning and compressing the arthrodesis site, which is filled with a mixture of concentrated bone marrow aspirate, bone growth factors, and allograft bone. Concomitant procedures may be indicated to ensure the overall success of the procedure, such as extra-articular, calcaneal osteotomy for additional realignment purposes and/or arthrolysis. A review of the literature shows high rates of union following subtalar bone block arthrodesis with improved functional outcomes. Our preferred technique for a bone block distraction subtalar arthrodesis, described herein, includes the use of an allograft wedge. Ongoing advances, such as the development of novel materials and structures for use in subtalar bone block arthrodesis, but most importantly, the incorporation of weight-bearing CT technology and potential for preoperative CT navigation to make this procedure more predictable, are all important areas for further exploration and future research. Level of Evidence: Level—4.

Scapulothoracic Fusion Using Multiple Suture Tape Cerclage.

Scapulothoracic arthrodesis has been proposed for the treatment of painful scapular winging in patients with facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy. It was introduced to improve shoulder function. Several methods of fixation have been proposed to obtain the union of the scapula to the ribs. These include plates, screws, cables, or wires with or without bone grafting. The purpose of this manuscript is to describe the surgical technique of scapulothoracic arthrodesis using plate and cerclage suture tapes. Level IV, treatment study (case series).

Tibiotalocalcaneal Arthrodesis Using Hybrid Plate-Nail Constructs: A Novel Technique for Treatment of Unstable Ankle and Hindfoot Deformities.

Tibiotalocalcaneal (TTC) arthrodesis is a treatment option for several pathologies of the ankle and hindfoot, including acute trauma, posttraumatic arthritis, and Charcot neuroarthropathy. Traditional fixation options for TTC arthrodesis include intramedullary hindfoot nailing or internal fixation with plates and/or screws. In certain patients, either due to poor bone quality, impaired sensation, or concern for noncompliance, more robust fixation may be desired. In such patients, we have used a hybrid plate-nail construct with promising results. This article and the accompanying video demonstrate our technique for TTC arthrodesis using a plate-nail construct and review treatment decisions involved with management of these complex cases.