Introduction. Pes cavovarus is a foot deformity that can be idiopathic (I-PC) or acquired secondary to other pathology. Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) is the most common adult cause for acquired pes cavovarus deformity (CMT-PC). The foot morphology of these distinct patient groups has not been previously investigated. The aim of this study was to assess if morphological differences exist between CMT-PC, I-PC and normal feet (controls) using weightbearing computed tomography (WBCT). Methods. A retrospective analysis of WBCT scans performed between May 2013 and June 2017 was undertaken. WBCT scans from 17 CMT-PC, 17 I-PC and 17 healthy normally-aligned control feet (age-, side-, sex- and body mass index-matched) identified from a prospectively collected database, were analysed. Eight 2-dimensional (2D) and three 3-dimensional (3D) measurements were undertaken for each foot and mean values in the three groups were compared using one-way ANOVA with the Bonferroni correction. Results. Significant differences were observed between CMT-PC or I-PC and controls (p< 0.05). Two-dimensional measurements were similar in CMT-PC and I-PC, except for forefoot arch angle (p= 0.04). 3D measurements (foot and ankle offset, calcaneal offset and hindfoot alignment angle) demonstrated that CMT-PC exhibited more severe hindfoot varus malalignment than I-PC (p= 0.03, 0.04 and 0.02 respectively). Discussion. CMT-related cavovarus and idiopathic cavovarus feet are morphologically different from healthy feet, and CMT feet exhibit increased forefoot supination and hindfoot malalignment compared to idiopathic forms. The use of novel three-dimensional analysis may help highlight subtle structural differences in patients with similar foot morphology but aetiologically different pathology

Aims. To compare the cost-utility of removable brace compared with cast in the management of adult patients with ankle fracture. Methods. A within-trial economic evaluation conducted from the UK NHS and personnel social services (PSS) perspective. Health resources and quality-of-life data were collected as part of the Ankle Injury Rehabilitation (AIR) multicentre, randomized controlled trial over a 12-month period using trial case report forms and patient-completed questionnaires. Cost-utility analysis was estimated in terms of the incremental cost per quality adjusted life year (QALY) gained. Estimate uncertainty was explored by bootstrapping, visualized on the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio plane. Net monetary benefit and probability of cost-effectiveness were evaluated at a range of willingness-to-pay thresholds and visualized graphically. Results. The incremental cost and QALYs of using brace over a 12-month period were £46.73 (95% confidence interval (CI) £-9 to £147) and 0.0141 (95% CI -0.005 to 0.033), respectively. The cost per QALY gained was £3,318. The probability of brace being cost-effective at a £30,000 per QALY willingness-to-pay threshold was 88%. The results remained robust to a range of sensitivity analyses. Conclusion. This within-trial economic evaluation found that it is probable that using a removable brace provides good value to the NHS when compared to cast, in the management of adults with ankle fracture. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2022;3(6):455–462

Introduction. The management of open or unstable ankle and distal tibial fractures pose many challenges. In certain situations, hindfoot nailing (HFN) is indicated, however this depends on surgeon preference and regional variations exist. This study sought to establish the current management and outcomes of complex ankle fractures in the UK. Methods. A National collaborative study in affiliation with BOTA was conducted and data retrospectively collected between January 1. st. – June 30. th. 2019. Adult patients with open and closed complex ankle fractures (AO43/44) were included. Complex fractures included the following patient characteristics: diabetes ± neuropathy, rheumatoid arthritis, alcoholism, polytrauma and cognitive impairment. We obtained data on fixation choice and patient outcomes. Institutional approval was obtained by all centres, and statistical analysis was performed including propensity matching. Results. Fifty-six centres provided data for 1360 patients. The average age of the cohort was 53.9 years ±19 (SD) with a male/female ratio of 1:1.3. 920 patients were ASA 1/2, 440 were ASA 3/4; 316 had diabetes, and 275 were open fractures. Most fractures were AO44 (71.2%) and more commonly associated with diabetes (P<0.001), alcoholism (P<0.007), open (P<0.013), and advanced age (55.7 vs. 46.3). 1227 patients underwent primary-fixation (111 HFN), with the remainder treated with external-fixation (84 definitive). Of the 111 HFN, 35% underwent primary fusion. Wound complication and thromboembolic rates were greater in the HFN group compared to ORIF groups (P<0.003), being more evident in the HFN group with primary fusion even after propensity matching. However, 1081 patients were non-weightbearing post-op contrary to the BOAST guidance. Conclusion. This is the first National collaborative audit of complex ankle fractures. Hindfoot nails were used in 9% of patients and we observed more complications in this group when compared to other cohorts. Despite BOAST guidance, only 21% of patients undergoing operative management were instructed to fully weightbear post-operatively

Introduction

The purpose of this study was to examine trends in patient characteristics and clinical outcomes that occur with age as a statistical variable when performing autologous osteochondral transplantation (AOT) for the treatment of osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLT).

Introduction

Acute ankle injuries are commonly seen in musculoskeletal practice. Surgical management is the gold standard for lateral ligament injury in those with failed conservative treatment for a minimum of six months. Several studies have shown good functional outcome and early rehabilitation after MBG repair with an internal brace augmentation which is a braided ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene ligament used to enhance the repair that acts as a secondary stabiliser. Hence the aim of the study was to compare the results with and without augmentation.

Objective. The main object of this study was to use a geometric morphometric approach to quantify the left-right symmetry of talus bones. . Methods. Analysis was carried out using CT scan images of 11 pairs of intact tali. Two important geometric parameters, volume and surface area, were quantified for left and right talus bones. The geometric shape variations between the right and left talus bones were also measured using deviation analysis. Furthermore, location of asymmetry in the geometric shapes were identified. . Results. Numerical results showed that talus bones are bilaterally symmetrical in nature, and the difference between the surface area of the left and right talus bones was less than 7.5%. Similarly, the difference in the volume of both bones was less than 7.5%. Results of the three-dimensional (3D) deviation analyses demonstrated the mean deviation between left and right talus bones were in the range of -0.74 mm to 0.62 mm. It was observed that in eight of 11 subjects, the deviation in symmetry occurred in regions that are clinically less important during talus surgery. . Conclusions. We conclude that left and right talus bones of intact human ankle joints show a strong degree of symmetry. The results of this study may have significance with respect to talus surgery, and in investigating traumatic talus injury where the geometric shape of the contralateral talus can be used as control. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2014;3:139–45

Introduction:. There is paucity of literature on Gait analysis following Total Ankle Replacement (TAR). We aimed to study changes to gait after successful Mobility TAR. Methods:. 20 patients who underwent a primary TAR, with a diagnosis of either OA or PTOA were recruited between October 2008 and March 2011. Gait analysis was carried out using the Helen Hayes marker system with VICON 3D opto-electric system pre-operatively, 3, 6 and 12 months post-operatively. Ankle kinematics and spatio-temporal parameters of gait were studied. Results:. 20 patients were included. Mean age was 63.6 years (Range 43–84), mean BMI was 29.6 ± 4.08. Diagnosis was OA in 12 (52.2%) and PTOA in 8 (34.8%). Results showed increase in average and maximum range of dorsiflexion from (3° to 7°) and (11° to 17°) respectively from pre-op to 1 year, but statistically not significant (p>0.05). Of the temporal variables, Average Cadence increased from Pre-op to 1 year (102 to 106 steps/min); double support (0.35% to 0.31%), single support (0.41% to 0.39%) and toe off point at gait cycle (63.9% to 62.4%) decreased from pre-op to 1 year, but failed to achieve statistical significance (p>0.05). For distance variables, Step length showed a significant increase from pre-op to 1 year (0.21m/s to 0.58m/s; p<0.001); stride length increased (1.05m/s to 1.13m/s), step time and stride time decreased (0.60 secs to 0.58 secs) and (1.19 to 1.14 secs) respectively and Walking speed increased (0.90m/s to 1.00m/s) from pre-op to 1 year, but statistically not significant (P>0.05). Conclusion:. There was significant improvement in step length after TAR from pre-op to 1 year. Although the results showed a trend for improvement in average dorsiflexion, average cadence, stride length, walking speed, decreased step and stride length times, which showed improvement in walking pattern in these group of patients, but failed to achieve statistical significance

It is difficult to determine the safe timing of weight-bearing or reconstructive surgery in patients with Charcot arthropathy of the foot and ankle. In this study the Doppler spectrum of the first dorsal metatarsal artery was used to monitor the activity of the disease activity and served as a guideline for management. A total of 15 patients (seven men and eight women) with acute diabetic Charcot arthropathy of the foot and ankle were immobilised in a non-weight-bearing cast. They were followed at two-week intervals and bilateral Doppler spectra of the first dorsal metatarsal arteries were obtained using a 10 MHz linear ultrasound probe. The patients were allowed to start weight-bearing or undergo surgery after the Doppler spectrum had returned to normal pattern. The Doppler spectra in the unaffected limbs were triphasic in pattern, whereas those in limbs with active Charcot arthropathy showed monophasic forward flow. They returned to normal after a mean of 13.6 weeks (6 to 20) of immobilisation. Three patients underwent pan-talar arthrodesis to correct gross instability and deformity. Doppler spectrum analysis of the foot may reflect the activity of the disease in patients with Charcot arthropathy, and may be used as a guide to begin weight-bearing or undergo reconstructive surgery

Introduction. Various rehabilitation shoes are prescribed to protect the forefoot following surgery. Patients often complain of discomfort in other areas as a result of the postoperative shoe, including the knee, hip and lower back. This has never been quantified. This study aims to establish the effect on other joints using gait analysis. Methods: 11 healthy volunteers were investigated using various common types of postoperative shoe. They were studied with gait analysis equipment and the joint motion assessed with commercial software. The effect of commercial devices designed to minimise gait changes by lifting the contralateral foot were also evaluated. Results. There was a reduction in knee flexion and extension compared to the contralateral leg in all phases of the gait cycle. This was the case with both heel wedge shoes and inflatable air boots. There was also an increase in pelvic tilt during gait with both shoes, which was more pronounced with the air boot. The foot raise device for the contralateral foot which is designed to decrease these changes was effective in decreasing gait changes. Discussion. The use of rehabilitation shoes after forefoot surgery is almost universal. Patients are rarely counselled of the risk of joint pain or back pain as a result of the postoperative shoe. Patients with pre-existing back pain or hip pain may have fewer symptoms if they are supplied with an equalising device to raise the other foot. Conclusions. Patients are at risk of initiation or exacerbation of low back pain or lower limb joint pain from the use of postoperative shoes. Patients with a history of back or limb symptoms should be provided with an equalising device for the contralateral limb to minimise their discomfort. Patients should be warned of this risk when giving consent

Hallux rigidus was first described in 1887. Many aetiological factors have been postulated, but none has been supported by scientific evidence. We have examined the static and dynamic imbalances in the first metatarsophalangeal joint which we postulated could be the cause of this condition. We performed a finite-element analysis study on a male subject and calculated a mathematical model of the joint when subjected to both normal and abnormal physiological loads. The results gave statistically significant evidence for an increase in tension of the plantar fascia as the cause of abnormal stress on the articular cartilage rather than mismatch of the articular surfaces or subclinical muscle contractures. Our study indicated a clinical potential cause of hallux rigidus and challenged the many aetiological theories. It could influence the choice of surgical procedure for the treatment of early grades of hallux rigidus

Introduction. Hallux Rigidus affects 2–10% of population, usually treated with cheilectomy or arthrodesis, however, for the subclass of patients who refuse to undergo fusion, Arthroplasty is an alternative solution, it maintain some degree of motion and provide pain relief. Toefit; is one of the prostheses being used. It is a total joint replacement with polyethylene insert. The aim of this study is to find clinical and radiological outcomes of Toefit arthroplasty. Method. A prospective study. Ethical committee approval was obtained. Patient who have received Toefit Arthroplasty with at least 12 months follow-up and were willing to participate in the study were included. Patients were reviewed by independent surgeon. Questionnaires were completed followed by clinical examination. This followed by radiographic assessment. Patients, who were willing to take part in the study but could not attend a clinical review, were invited to participate in telephone questionnaire. Pre and postoperative AOFAS scores were compared, patients' satisfaction and clinical and radiological outcome were assessed using descriptive statistics, t-test and survivalship analysis were done. Results. 180 patients had Toefit (September 2004–June 2011). 160 patients participated in the study (170 prostheses), 87% were females. Age range (38–89) year. AOFAS improved significantly from 38 to 83, with average arc of movement of 37 degrees. Patient satisfaction was high, VAS score1. Failure rate of 4.9%, there was high rate of revision of 29% due to sesamoid pain or stiffness in the initial group of patients, decreased to 8% in the second group. Radiological review showed asymptomatic aseptic loosening of 20%, mainly of the proximal phalanx components. Conclusion. First MTP joint replacement can provide pain relief and maintain good range of movement. However, this study highlighted high rate of revision and aseptic loosening. Long term review is required

Introduction. Osteoarthritis commonly affects the first metatarsophalangeal joint. Stress across this joint has been postulated to increase the incidence of osteoarthritis. Certain foot structures have been associated with a higher incidence of osteoarthritis of the big toe. Utilizing finite elemental analysis, bone stress across the first metatarsophalangeal joint was calculated during mid stance phase of gait and compared in different foot structures. Method. A geometrically accurate three dimensional model of the first metatarsophalangeal joint was created utilising a high resolution 7 tesla MRI and Mimics v14 imaging software. Planus, rectus and cavus feet were simulated by varying the metatarsophalangeal declination angle to 10.1, 20.2 and 30.7 degrees, respectively. A non-manfold computer aided design technique in Mimics v14.2 and finite element method in ANSYS v12 FE were utilised to create the boundary conditions, representing the double support stance phase of gait. Using information from 61 asymptomatic patients with different foot types walking over a Novel emed-x plantar pressure measuring system, plantar loading conditions were applied. Finite elemental analysis was used to predict stress in the first metatarsophalangeal joint in the different foot types. Results. The peak stresses in the distal first metatarsophalangeal joint cartilage were 1.1×10(6) Pa, 6.0×10(5) Pa and 9.7×10(5) Pa for planus, rectus and cavus foot types, respectively. This corresponds to 83.3 percent and 61.6 percent increases in first metatarsophalangeal joint contact stress for the planus and cavus feet relative to the rectus foot. Conclusion. The results suggest there is a higher contact stress of the first metatarsophalangeal joint in patients with pes planus and pes cavus compared to the rectus foot. This may account for the increase risk of first metatarsophalangeal joint osteoarthritis in patients with pes planus. Further work has been initiated utilising this model to measure first metatarsophalangeal joint stress with different hindfoot loading

Akins original description of his osteotomy did not describe the use of any metal work. Today the osteotomy is most commonly held and fixed with either a staple or screw. We describe the results obtained with a simple suture technique. Methods Data was collected prospectively on 125 patients undergoing an Akin osteotomy. Hallux valgus (HV) and intermetatarsal (IM) angles pre and postoperatively were recorded. Patients were reviewed at 6 week follow up. Cost analysis was also performed comparing different fixation types. 111 of the patients were female and 14 male. The average age at time of surgery was 49 years. 104 cases were in conjunction with hallux valgus correction while 21 cases were for hallux interphalangeus. The mean preoperative HV angle was 33.3 degrees (range 22 to 53), and the IM angle 13.3 degrees (range 9 to 25). At the 6 week follow up all patients had shown signs of radiological union. The postoperative HV angle was 12.4 degrees (range 7 to 17) and the IM angle 6.4 degrees (range 5 to 11). All patients maintained their correction. There were no complications, infections or fixation problems. All patients were satisfied with their surgery and would have it repeated again. The suture technique was the most cost effective method. We describe a quick, easy, implant free method of fixing the Akin osteotomy. There is no need for metalwork removal and in today's world of austerity and the current climate of widespread budget constraints we describe a cost effective method which is clinically just as effective as methods requiring a staple or screw

Introduction

Arthroplasty for treatment of end stage hallux rigidus is controversial. Arthrodesis remains the gold-standard, but this procedure is not without complications, with up to 10% non-union, 14% re-operation and 10% transfer metatarsalgia rates reported.

The aim of this study was to analyse the outcome of the double-stemmed silastic implant (Wright-Medical) for end stage hallux rigidus.

Background

Subtalar nonunion has a detrimental effect on patients' function, and pose a significant challenge for surgeons particularly in the setting of higher risk factors.

Introduction

The anatomy of the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint and, in particular, the metatarsosesamoid articulation remains poorly understood. The movements of the sesamoids in relation to the metatarsal plays a key role in the function of the first MTP joint. Although the disorders affecting the sesamoids are described well, the movements of the metatarsosesamoid joints and the pathomechanics of these joints have not been described. We have performed a cadaver study detailing and quantifying the three dimensional movements occurring at these joints.

We present a review of 97 consecutive BioPro^® metallic hemiarthroplasties performed in 80 patients for end-stage hallux rigidus, with a minimum of five years follow-up.

The mean age of the cohort was 55 (22 to 74) years. No patient was lost to follow-up. There were 15 revisions performed, one for infection, two for osteolysis, and 12 for pain. The all cause survival rate at five years was 85.6% (95% confidence interval (CI) 83.5 to 87.9). Younger age was a significant predictor of revision (odds ratio 1.09, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.17, p=0.014) on excluding infection and adjusting for confounding variables (Cox regression). Significant improvements were demonstrated at 5 years in the Manchester Oxford foot questionnaire (13.9, 95% CI 10.5 to 17.2) and in the physical component of the short form 12 score (6.5, 95% CI 4.1 to 8.9). The overall satisfaction rate was 72%. The cost per quality-adjusted-life-year at 5 years, accounting for a 3% per year revision rate, was £3,714.

The BioPro offers good short to mid-term functional outcome and is a cost effective intervention. The relative high revision rate is associated with younger age and the use of this implant may be limited to older patients.

Introduction:

NICE guidelines state that every patient should be assessed for their VTE risk on admission to hospital. The aim of this study was to determine whether currently recommended risk assessment tools (Nygaard, Caprini, NICE and Plymouth) can correctly identify the patients at risk.

Introduction

Ottawa ankle rules originally described in 1992 have been shown to improve the pick-up rates of ankle fractures and avoid the need for unnecessary X-rays, thus minimising cost and radiation to the patient.

We decided to carry out an audit at our hospital to look at the pick-up rates of ankle fractures and ways to minimise x-rays for the patient both in A&E and in the orthopaedic department.

Background

The Weil osteotomy is successful in the management of metatarsalgia and toe deformity. The aim is to achieve controlled shortening whilst avoiding plantarflexion. Recognised complications of the Weil osteotomy include a ‘floating toe’ in up to 20% or more of cases.