Varus Ankle Research Articles

Effects of Knee Osteoarthritis on Hip and Ankle Gait Mechanics.

Introduction Knee osteoarthritis (OA) can affect the hip and ankle joints, as these three joints operate as a kinetic/kinematic chain while walking. Purpose This study was performed to compare (1) hip and ankle joint gait mechanics between knee OA and control groups and (2) to investigate the effects of knee gait mechanics on the ipsilateral hip and ankle joint. Methods The study group included 89 patients with end-stage knee OA and 42 age- and sex-matched controls without knee pain or OA. Kinetic and kinematic parameters were evaluated using a commercial optoelectric gait analysis system. Range of motion (ROM) during gait, coronal motion arc, and peak joint moment of hip, knee, and ankle joints were investigated. Results Ankle varus moment was 50% higher in the OA group (p=0.005) and was associated with higher knee adduction moment (p<0.001). The ROM of the hip and ankle joints were significantly smaller in the OA group and were associated with limited ROM of the knee joint (both p<0.001). The coronal motion arc of the hip was smaller in the OA group and was also associated with limited motion arc of the knee (p<0.001). Conclusions Knee OA has a negative effect on the ROM, coronal motion arc, and joint moment of the ankle joint and hip joint. As knee OA is associated with increased moment of the ankle joint, attention should be paid to the ankle joint when treating patients with knee OA.

Amputee Locomotion: Joint Moment Adaptations to Running Speed Using Running-Specific Prostheses after Unilateral Transtibial Amputation.

The objective of this study was to investigate three-dimensional lower extremity joint moment differences between limbs and speed influences on these differences in individuals with lower extremity amputations using running-specific prostheses. Eight individuals with unilateral transtibial amputations and 8 control subjects with no amputations ran overground at three constant velocities (2.5, 3.0, and 3.5 m/sec). A 2 × 2 × 3 (group × leg × speed) repeated-measures analysis of variance with Bonferroni adjustments determined statistical significance. The prosthetic limb generated significantly greater peak ankle plantarflexion moments and smaller peak ankle varus, knee stance extension, knee swing flexion, knee internal rotation, hip stance flexion, hip swing flexion, hip swing extension, hip valgus, and hip external rotation moments than the intact limb did. The intact limb had greater peak hip external rotation moments than control limbs did, but all other peak moments were similar between these limbs. Increases in peak hip stance and knee swing flexion moments associated with speed were greater in the intact limb than in the prosthetic limb. Individuals with amputation relied on the intact limb more than the prosthetic limb to run at a particular speed when wearing running-specific prostheses, but the intact joints were not overloaded relative to the control limbs.

Prognostic Factors Affecting Correction Angle Changes After Supramalleolar Osteotomy Using an Opening Wedge Plate for Varus Ankle Osteoarthritis

Supramalleolar osteotomy (SMO) has been suggested as an effective salvage treatment for varus ankle osteoarthritis. To identify the prognostic factors affecting the correction angle changes after SMO, a total of 53 consecutive patients (58 ankles) were evaluated retrospectively. Clinical and radiologic outcomes were evaluated, and statistical analyses were performed to identify the prognostic factors associated with the clinical and radiologic outcomes. The mean visual analogue scale scores and the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society scores improved significantly at the final follow-up (both p <.001). The mean tibial-ankle surface (TAS), talar tilt (TT), and tibial-lateral surface angles improved significantly after surgery, compared with the preoperative assessments (all, p <.001). However, at the final follow-up, these angles had changed significantly, compared with their immediate postoperative values (all p <.001), and the changes in the TAS and TT angles significantly influenced the clinical outcomes at the final follow-up (both p <.05). Male sex, high body mass index (≥26.4 kg/m2), and the existence of the lateral cortex breakages were significantly associated with the changes in the TAS and TT angle (all p <.05). Therefore, surgeons should consider these prognostic factors before performing SMO.

Modified distal tibial oblique osteotomy for osteoarthritis of the ankle: Operative procedure and preliminary results

BackgroundLow tibial osteotomy is an effective joint-preserving surgery for ankle arthritis. However, poor postoperative wound healing, infection, and delayed or non-union of bones remain significant concerns. We describe a modified distal tibial oblique osteotomy procedure and report preliminary results for varus ankle arthritis. MethodsThe osteotomy path consisted of an oblique doglegged line from the lateral end of the distal tibia to a proximal point about one-third from the lateral edge and continuing along an arc defined by virtual coronal-plane rotation of the doglegged line to the medial edge. After osteotomy, the distal tibial fragment was rotated distally in the coronal plane for realignment while maintaining contact with the proximal tibia and the distal tibial fragment. The resulting wedge-shaped gap was filled with artificial bone blocks and tibial bone projecting medially from rotation. A locking plate was then applied for stabilization. We evaluated 7 ankles from 6 osteoarthritis patients both clinically and radiographically following this procedure. ResultsBone union was achieved within 3 months for all patients. The Japanese Society for Surgery of the Foot ankle–hindfoot scale improved from a mean of 38.4 points preoperatively to 85.7 points at the latest follow-up. No wound healing problems, infections, or nerve disturbances were observed. Multiple radiographic parameters were also improved following the operation. ConclusionsThis procedure maintains close bone contact for better postoperative union, obviates the need for iliac bone harvesting, and reduces tension on medial soft tissue. We believe these modifications are potential advantages for achieving stable results in patients with ankle osteoarthritis.

Supramalleolar Osteotomy Combined With an Intra-articular Osteotomy for the Reconstruction of Malunited Medial Impacted Ankle Fractures.

Malunion of a medial impacted ankle fracture may cause varus ankle deformity. This retrospective study examined the use of supramalleolar osteotomy combined with an intra-articular osteotomy in patients with malunited medial impacted ankle fractures. Twenty-four patients with malunited medial impacted ankle fracture were treated between January 2011 and December 2014. Using Weber's classification, 10 had type A fractures and 14 had type B, and with the AO classification, 20 had 44A2 and 4 had 44B3. All of these patients had varus ankle deformity. Supramalleolar osteotomy combined with an intra-articular osteotomy was performed. The visual analog scale (VAS) for pain during daily activities, the Olerud and Molander Scale and the modified Takakura classification stage were used to determine the clinical outcomes and a radiographic analysis was performed. The radiographic parameters, including the tibial ankle surface (TAS) angle and talar tilt angle (TTA), showed significant differences between the preoperative and follow-up assessments. The mean tibial lateral surface (TLS) did not show a significant change. The average Olerud and Molander Scale score improved significantly from 56.4 ± 6.21 preoperatively to 77.0 ± 6.11 at the latest follow-up ( P < .01). The mean VAS decreased significantly from 6.7 ± 0.8 preoperatively to 3.1 ± 0.6 at the latest follow-up ( P < .01). No significant difference in the modified Takakura classification stage was observed between the preoperative assessment and the last follow-up. The use of a supramalleolar osteotomy combined with an intra-articular osteotomy was an effective option for the treatment of malunited medial impacted ankle fractures associated with varus ankle deformity. Level IV, retrospective case series.

Osteochondral Autograft Transfer Combined with Periarticular Osteotomy for the Treatment of Osteochondral Defect of the Talus in Varus Ankle

Category: Ankle Introduction/Purpose: Osteochondral lesion of the talus (OLTs) is among the most common foot and ankle disorders. Varus ankle malalignment causes stress concentration on medial side of the joint, resulting in OLTs and osteoarthritis. For large symptomatic OLTs (&gt; 15 mm in diameter) involving posteromedial aspect of talar dome, osteochondral autograft transplantation is usually warranted. This article highlights the distal tibial double osteotomy for the management of patient with concomitant large OLTs and varus ankle malalignment. Methods: From January 2012 to July 2015, 15 patients (8 males, 7 females) received the surgery in our department. The average age was 55.4 (range, 34 to 69) years old. Oblique medial malleolar osteotomy was performed to expose the talar lesion, following by osteochondral autograft transplantation and distal tibial opening-wedge osteotomy. Weight bearing X-rays were obtained for the measurement of tibial articular surface (TAS) angle and tibial lateral surface (TLS) angle. The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society-Ankle and Hindfoot (AOFAS-AH) questionnaires and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) were evaluated for ankle function. In 5 cases arthroscopy was performed 12 months postoperatively and the cartilage repair was assessed with the criteria of the International Cartilage Repair Society. Results: Thirteen patients completed the follow-up with a mean of 21.2 months. The average talar lesion was 170.0mm2, and the average depth was 11.4 mm. The mean time of bone healing was 8.5 weeks. No patient reported donor site morbidity by the last follow-up. The mean AOFAS-AH score and VAS score improved from 53 to 90 points (p &lt; 0.05), 6.7 to 1.9 points (p &lt; 0.05), respectively. The mean TAS angle improved from 83.1 to 90.3 degrees (p &lt; 0.05). The radiolucent area of the cysts disappeared on the plain radiographs in all cases. The mean International Cartilage Repair Society arthroscopic score from follow-up arthroscopy was (9±1) points. Conclusion: The use of osteochondral autograft transfer combined with supramalleolar osteotomy is an effective option for the treatment of osteochondral defect of the talus in varus ankle. It provides excellent visualization of the talar defect and favorable biomechanical environment for the ankle joint.

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.

Evaluation of the results of the surgical treatment of chronic lateral ankle instability with knee flexor tendon autograft

Objective: To clinically and radiographically evaluate a group of patients undergoing lateral ankle ligament reconstruction surgery using knee flexor tendon autograft. Methods: The study included and prospectively evaluated 10 patients undergoing lateral ankle ligament reconstruction using knee flexor autograft. Clinical evaluation was performed using the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Score (AOFAS), preoperatively and after 1 year of follow-up. Radiographic evaluation included anteroposterior projections associated with ankle varus stress and profile projections of the ankle anterior drawer, also preoperatively and 1 year postoperatively. Results: A mean preoperative AOFAS of 69.3 (SD ± 11.49) was obtained. One year after surgery, there was an increase in the mean score of 98.2 (SD ± 3.01), showing a statistically significant improvement (p < 0.001). The anterior tibiotalar angle values improved markedly, with statistical significance. Although the anterior tibiotalar subluxation values also showed a marked improvement, it was not possible to calculate statistical significance; the group of 10 patients had to be divided into two, as six patients met the criteria when compared to the contralateral side (group 1) and four patients had an absolute value of anterior subluxation of more than 10 mm (group 2). Conclusion: After clinical and radiographic evaluation comparing preoperative and 1-year postoperative data, we conclude that in the analyzed group, the reconstruction technique used produced good or excellent results and should be considered for the treatment of chronic lateral ankle instability. Level of Evidence III; Retrospective Comparative Study.

Subtalar joint alignment in ankle osteoarthritis

BackgroundAlthough it has been proposed that in mid-stage ankle osteoarthritis, the subtalar joint can compensate for deformities above the ankle joint, the evidence is weak. We thus investigated subtalar joint alignment in different stages of ankle osteoarthritis using weightbearing computed tomography (CT) scans. MethodsThe subtalar joint of 88 patients with osteoarthritis of the ankle joint and a control group of 27 healthy volunteers were assessed. Subgroups were performed according to the ankle deformity (varus and valgus) and stage of ankle joint osteoarthritis. Subtalar joint alignment was assessed on weightbearing CT scans. ResultsA more valgus subtalar joint alignment was found in patients with varus ankle osteoarthritis. No significant difference of the subtalar joint alignment was evident when comparing different stages of ankle osteoarthritis. ConclusionsVarus ankles compensate in the subtalar joint for deformities above the ankle joint. Compensation does not correlate with the stage of ankle osteoarthritis.

Use of three-dimensional finite element models of the lateral ankle ligaments to evaluate three surgical techniques.

ObjectiveTo compare three surgical techniques for lateral ankle ligament reconstruction using finite element (FE) models.MethodsA three-dimensional FE model of the left foot of a healthy volunteer and lateral collateral ligament injury models were developed. Three tendons [one-half of the autologous peroneus longus tendon (PLT), one-half of the peroneus brevis tendon (PBT), and an allogeneic tendon] were used for lateral collateral ligament reconstruction. The ankle varus stress and anterior drawer tests were performed to compare the three surgical techniques.ResultsThe ankle varus stress test showed that the equivalent stresses of the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) (84.00 MPa) and calcaneofibular ligament (CFL) (27.01 MPa) were lower in allogeneic tendon reconstruction than in the other two techniques but similar to those of normal individuals (138.48 and 25.90 MPa, respectively). The anterior drawer test showed that the equivalent stresses of the ATFL and CFL in autologous PLT reconstruction (31.31 and 28.60 MPa, respectively) and PBT reconstruction (31.47 and 29.07 MPa, respectively) were lower than those in allogeneic tendon reconstruction (57.32 and 52.20 MPa, respectively).ConclusionsThe allogeneic tendon reconstruction outcome was similar to normal individuals. Allogeneic tendon reconstruction may be superior for lateral ankle ligament reconstruction without considering its complications.

Osteochondral autograft transfer combined with supramalleolar osteotomy for the treatment of osteochondral defect of the talus in varus ankle

Category: Ankle, Ankle Arthritis, Arthroscopy, Sports Introduction/Purpose: Osteochondral lesion of the talus (OLTs) is among the most common foot and ankle disorders. Varus ankle malalignment causes stress concentration on medial side of the joint, resulting in OLTs and osteoarthritis. For large symptomatic OLTs (&gt; 15 mm in diameter) involving posteromedial aspect of talar dome, osteochondral autograft transplantation is usually warranted. This article highlights the distal tibial double osteotomy for the management of patient with concomitant large OLTs and varus ankle malalignment. Methods: From January 2012 to July 2015, 15 patients (8 males, 7 females) received the surgery in our department. The average age was 55.4 (range, 34 to 69) years old. Oblique medial malleolar osteotomy was performed to expose the talar lesion, following by osteochondral autograft transplantation and distal tibial opening-wedge osteotomy. Weight bearing X-rays were obtained for the measurement of tibial articular surface (TAS) angle and tibial lateral surface (TLS) angle. The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society-Ankle and Hindfoot (AOFAS-AH) questionnaires and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) were evaluated for ankle function. In 5 cases arthroscopy was performed 12 months postoperatively and the cartilage repair was assessed with the criteria of the International Cartilage Repair Society. Results: Thirteen patients completed the follow-up with a mean of 21.2 months. The average talar lesion was 170.0mm2, and the average depth was 11.4 mm. The mean time of bone healing was 8.5 weeks. No patient reported donor site morbidity by the last follow-up. The mean AOFAS-AH score and VAS score improved from 53 to 90 points (p &lt; 0.05), 6.7 to 1.9 points (p &lt; 0.05), respectively. The mean TAS angle improved from 83.1 to 90.3 degrees (p &lt; 0.05). The radiolucent area of the cysts disappeared on the plain radiographs in all cases. The mean International Cartilage Repair Society arthroscopic score from follow-up arthroscopy was (9±1) points. Conclusion: The use of osteochondral autograft transfer combined with supramalleolar osteotomy is an effective option for the treatment of osteochondral defect of the talus in varus ankle. It provides excellent visualization of the talar defect and favorable biomechanical environment for the ankle joint.

Normal ranges of radiographic parameters measured from ankle varus and broden 30° stress views related to the STI

Normal ranges of radiographic parameters measured from ankle varus and broden 30° stress views related to the STI

Subtalar Joint Alignment in Ankle Osteoarthritis

Category: Ankle Arthritis, Hindfoot Introduction/Purpose: The influence of the subtalar joint on the evolution of ankle joint osteoarthritis is still a matter of debate. Although subtalar joint compensation of deformities above the ankle joint was proposed until mid-stage of ankle osteoarthritis, the evidence of this assumption is weak. In this study, we investigated the subtalar joint alignment in different stages of ankle joint osteoarthritis using weightbearing CT scans. The influence of the tibio-talar tilt and presence of subtalar joint osteoarthritis was additionally assessed. We hypothesized, that the subtalar joint compensates for deformities above the ankle joint in early- to mid-stage of ankle osteoarthritis. We also hypothesized, that subtalar joint compensation increases with a pronounced tibio-talar tilt and decreases with the presence of subtalar joint osteoarthritis. Methods: We included patients with ankle joint osteoarthritis treated in our institution from January 2013 to April 2016. A control group of 28 patients was additionally assessed. Varus and valgus ankles were subdivided according to the modified Takakura classification, the tilt of the talus in the ankle mortise and stage of subtalar joint osteoarthritis. The type of ankle osteoarthritis was diagnosed on a plain weightbearing anterior to posterior radiograph of the ankle. The medial distal tibial angle (TAS) and the angle between the tibial shaft and the surface of the talar dome (TTS) were measured. The subtalar joint alignment was assessed using weightbearing CT scans. Two angles were assessed: The subtalar inclination angle (SIA) was measured to investigate the subtalar compensation. For assessment of the morphology of the talus, the inftal-subtal angle (ISA) was determined. Results: This analysis showed significant differences of the subtalar inclination between varus feet and the controls (SIA, P=.001). Regarding the talar morphology, significant differences were found between varus/ valgus feet and the controls (ISA, P=.001 and .036, respectively). No significant differences of the subtalar joint inclination and talar morphology could be identified comparing different stages of ankle joint osteoarthritis inside the varus or valgus group. No relationship between the tilt of the talus in the ankle joint mortise and the subtalar joint inclination or talar morphology was identified. Neither presence nor absence of subtalar joint osteoarthritis influenced the subtalar joint inclination and talar morphology. Conclusion: Varus ankles compensate in the subtalar joint for deformities above the ankle joint. Compensation had no influence on the stage of ankle osteoarthritis, extent of the tibio-talar tilt and stage of subtalar joint osteoarthritis. Consequently, the progression of ankle joint osteoarthritis is more depended on the supramalleolar alignment and integrity of the periarticular structures (i.e. ligaments and tendons) than on the osseous alignment of the subtalar joint.

Peri-talar Osteotomy as Part of Treatment of Talar Osteochondral Defect of Varus Ankle

Category: Ankle Introduction/Purpose: The etiology of osteochondral defect (OCD) of talus is not fully understood. Besides trauma, malalignment of ankle or hindfoot may play a role in the development of OCD. The aim of this study is to assess the efficacy of peri-talar osteotomy in addition to routine treatment of OCD of talus. Methods: This is a retrospective study of 52 cases of varus talar OCD during the period of 2009.9 to 2014.12. Micro-fracture or autograft transplantation were applied for the OCD first according to the dimension of the lesion in all cases. Then peri-talar osteotomy were performed to correct ankle or hindfoot mal-alignment in 26 cases according to the position of varus deformity, including 18 supramalleolar osteotomy, 6 calcaneal osteotomy and 2 combined distal tibial and calcaneal double osteotomy. Pre- and post-operative radiographic parameters of TAS, TTS, TLS angles and MoA were measured on mortise view, lateral view and hindfoot alignment view respectively. AOFAS-AH score, VAS score and SF36 score were performed to assess both subjective and objective outcome. Results: For the osteotomy group, there were statistically changes (P &lt; 0.05) radiographically (TAS, TTS, MoA, TLS) after surgery. While the radiographic parameters didn’t change in the group without corrective osteotomy. AOFAS-AH score and VAS score increased significantly (P &lt; 0.05) in both the osteotomy group and the non-osteotomy group. The SF36 scores score increased significantly (P &lt; 0.05) in the osteotomy group while not significant in the non-osteotomy group. The AOFAS-AH and SF36 scores were statistically higher in the osteotomy group after surgery (p&lt;0.05), and the VAS score were not statistically different in two groups. There were 5 out of 26 revised cases in the non-osteotomy group while 2 out of 26 revised cases in the osteotomy group. Conclusion: Peri-talar osteotomy in addition to routine treatment of OCD of talus results in better radiographic and functional outcome and lower recurrence for patients of varus talar osteochondral defect. Mechanical malalignment may contribute to progression of OCD of talus and thus should be corrected simultaneously.

Supramalleolar Osteotomy combined with Intra-articular Osteotomy for the Reconstruction of Malunited Supination-Adduction Ankle Fractures

Category: Ankle Arthritis, Trauma Introduction/Purpose: The supination-adduction ankle fractures often showed vertical impaction of the tibial medial plafond. The malunion of these fractures cause the varus ankle deformity and secondary ankle arthritis. This retrospective control study looked at the use of supramalleolar osteotomy combined with intra-articular osteotomy in patients with malunited supination- adduction ankle fractures. Methods: Twelve patients were treated with malunited supination-adduction ankle fractures between January 2013 and December 2014. All of these patients had the varus ankle deformity and secondary ankle arthritis. Supramalleolar osteotomy combined with intra-articular osteotomy were underwent for the reconstruction surgery. The visual analog scale (VAS) score for pain during daily activities, Olerud and Molander Scale scores, subjective satisfaction survey rating and the modified Takakura classification stage were obtained. Ten patients were available for follow-up at a mean of 35.4 months (range, 28 to 40 months). Results: Average postoperative Olerud and Molander Scale score 24 months after surgery was 83±10 compared with 60±14 preoperatively. The mean VAS score decreased from 7±2 preoperatively to 2±2 at the latest follow-up. Six patients rated their result as excellent, 3 as good and 1 as fair. No significant difference in the modified Takakura classification stage was observed between the preoperative and the last follow-up. Conclusion: The use of supramalleolar osteotomy combined with intra-articular osteotomy was an effective option for the treatment of malunited supination-adduction ankle fractures.

The concepts of Distal Tibial Oblique Osteotomy (DTOO) treated for Stage 3b and Stage 4 varus ankle osteoarthritis

Considering the applications of cellular materials in the sacrificial claddings for impact/blast alleviation, this study presents a method for the design of cellular foam claddings with temperature gradient under high initial velocity impacts. A one-dimensional model for the compaction of cellular foam claddings with temperature gradient is developed for the striker-rod impact scenario based on the R-P-P-L idealization. The predictions of the proposed model are compared with FE simulations with the realistic R-PLH material model based on the actual experimentally derived stress-strain curves. The predictions of the dependency of critical length, critical impact velocity and impact force of the cellular foam rod with temperature gradient on the temperature distribution and the relation of critical impact velocity of an aluminum foam rod with a given length to the temperature contrast at its two ends are compared well with the numerical simulations results.

Indications for supramalleolar osteotomy based on arthroscopic findings for varus ankle arthritis

Indications for supramalleolar osteotomy based on arthroscopic findings for varus ankle arthritis

Single-Surgeon Experience with Supramalleolar Osteotomy

Category: Ankle, Ankle Arthritis Introduction/Purpose: Supramalleolar osteotomy is a joint-preserving option for patients with asymmetric ankle osteoarthritis. However, it remains unclear whether tibiotalar tilt can be effectively corrected by this procedure. The objective of this prospective study was to evaluate the short-term clinical and radiographic outcomes in patients who underwent a supramalleolar osteotomy procedure performed by one surgeon. Methods: A total of 16 patients with asymmetric ankle osteoarthritis and a concomitant supramalleolar deformity were included in this prospective study: 7 patients with valgus (medial closing wedge osteotomy) and 9 patients with varus deformity (medial opening wedge osteotomy). There were 11 male and 5 female patients with a mean age of 41.6 ± 10.9 years. Intraoperative and postoperative complications were recorded and analyzed. Clinical and radiographic outcomes were assessed after a mean follow- up of 3.6 ± 1.1 years. The clinical assessment included pain assessment (VAS), functional assessment (range of motion and AOFAS hindfoot score), and quality of life (SF-36). The radiographic assessment included alignment measurements (medial distal tibial angle, tibiotalar tilt, calcaneal moment arm) and osteoarthritis degree assessment in the tibiotalar joint. Outcomes were compared between both patient groups: valgus vs. varus ankle osteoarthritis. Results: In 10 of 16 patients, removal of hardware was performed. There was significant pain relief from 5.8 ± 0.8 to 2.4 ± 0.8. The AOFAS score increased significantly from 36 ± 12 to 84 ± 10. The average range of motion increased from 31 ± 5 to 33 ± 4. All categories of the SF-36 score showed significant improvement. Preoperatively, tibiotalar tilt was 4.8 ± 2.4 in the varus group and 1.8 ± 2.4 in the valgus group. Postoperatively, tibiotalar tilt improved significantly in both groups, however, there was significant difference between both groups with 2.3 ± 1.6 (varus) vs. 0.2 ± 0.5 (valgus) (p=0.005). Postoperative clinical outcomes were comparable in both groups. One patient showed progressive ankle osteoarthritis requiring ankle arthrodesis. Conclusion: Our prospective study demonstrated encouraging short-term results in patients with asymmetric ankle osteoarthritis who underwent supramalleolar osteotomy. A significant clinical and radiographic improvement can be expected. However, especially in patients with varus osteoarthritis, tibiotalar tilt cannot be fully corrected.

Weight-bearing computed tomography findings in varus ankle osteoarthritis: Abnormal internal rotation of the talus in axial plane

Weight-bearing computed tomography findings in varus ankle osteoarthritis: Abnormal internal rotation of the talus in axial plane

Influence of increasing knee flexion angle on knee-ankle varus stress during single-leg jump landing.

ObjectivesThe primary aim of this study was to identify the relationship between the peak knee flexion angle and knee-ankle varus stress in the landing phase of the single-leg jump during running.MethodsFifteen male handball players from the first Saudi Arabian handball team were incorporated in this study. Each player performed a single-leg jump-land after running a fixed distance of 450 cm. The data were measured using a 3D motion analysis system. The maximum knee flexion angle, knee varus angle, centre of pressure pathway in the medio-lateral direction, and ankle varus moment were measured.ResultsThe Pearson Product Moment Correlation showed that a greater knee flexion angle was related to a greater lateral displacement of the centre of pressure (r = 0.794, P = 0.000), a greater ankle varus moment (r = 0.707, P = 0.003), and a greater knee varus angle (r = 0.753, P = 0.001). In addition, the greater ankle varus moment was related to the greater lateral displacement of the centre of pressure (r = 0.734, P = 0.002).ConclusionsThese findings may help physical therapists and conditioning professionals to understand the impact of increasing knee flexion angle on the lower limb joints. Such findings may help to develop training protocols for enhancing the lateral body reaction during the landing phase of the single-leg jump, which may protect the knee and ankle joints from excessive varus stresses.