Regional anaesthetic for foot surgery has been discussed as a method of post operative analgesia. Ankle block as the sole anaesthetic for foot surgery has not been extensively reviewed in the literature. Aim. To describe our experience of forefoot surgery under ankle block. Methods. 71 consecutive forefoot procedures (65 patients) were carried out under ankle block. A mixture of 10ml 2% Lidocaine with 10ml 0.5 % Bupivacine was administered to the superficial peroneal, deep peroneal, sural and saphenous nerves. Ankle tourniquet was employed in all procedures. Patients were contacted post operatively and completed a standardised questionnaire including an incremented pain assessment ranging from 0-10 (0 no pain, 10 severe pain). Results. 61 female and 4 male patients were contacted (age range 33-67y). Procedures included 48 first metatarsal osteotomies, 15 cheilectomies, 2 first MTP joint replacements, and 6 fusions. 17 patients (26 %) reported some discomfort during the block procedure (average pain score 1.2). No patients reported any pain during their operation(s). 14 patients (22%) required supplementation of the block. Average pain score at 6, 12, 24 and 48 hours following surgery were 0.66, 2.9, 2.4 and 1.3 respectively. All patients were discharged home and walking on the same day. None complained of nausea or required parentral analgesia. There were no readmissions. Each patient confirmed they would have surgery under regional block rather than general anaesthesia and would recommend this technique to family and friends. Discussion. There are many advantages in being able to perform these small procedures under regional anaesthesia. Our initial observational study suggests forefoot surgery under ankle block alone may be safe and effective. Anaesthesia obtained permits the majority of forefoot procedures and provides lasting post-operative analgesia. Combined with intra-operative sedation, use of ankle tourniquet and same day discharge it has very high patient acceptance and satisfaction

Objectives. Cartiva synthetic cartilage implant (SCI) is licenced for use in management of symptomatic hallux rigidus in several countries including the UK. As for now, there are no independent comparative series for treatment of hallux rigidus utilising polyvinyl alcohol implants. Study design and methods. Patients at a single centre with symptomatic hallux rigidus who underwent Cartiva SCI implant procedure were identified. First metatarsophalangeal joint arthritis was radiographically graded according to the Hattrup and Johnson (HJ) classification. Pre-operative and post-operative patient-reported outcomes were evaluated using the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) activities of daily living subscale and the Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire (MOXFQ). Results. 66 patients (19M, 47F) (43R and 23L) were followed up for an average of 14 months (min=2, max=36). 17 patients suffered from HJ2/moderate arthritis and 49 patients with grade HJ3/severe arthritis. Post-operative mean FAAM scores showed statistically significant improvement (p< 0.0001). Patients reported a 40% increase in functionality during activities of daily living. All 3 MOXFQ Domain scores improved significantly (p< 0.02). The Index score improved by 28 points (p< 0.0001). There was no correlation between length of follow up or age and PROMs (r=0.129). No statistical difference was demonstrated between sexes. However clinically, males and older patients exhibit better outcomes. There was a 89.4% patient satisfaction with the use of Cartiva. Conclusions. Our study shows excellent results with statistically significant improvements in functional outcomes, and promising short-term follow-up with low early revision rates. Pain in particular was significantly reduced. One third of patients developed post-operative stiffness requiring a manipulation under anaesthesia. Patient selection is key. Additional imaging may be required to assess sesamoid osteoarthritis. At 3 years the implant has demonstrated to be safe and efficacious in the management of hallux rigidus. Durability and survivability of the implant will continue to be studied in this cohort

While many forefoot procedures may be performed as a day case, there are no specific guidelines as to which procedures are suitable. This study assessed the early post-operative pain after forefoot surgery performed a day case, compared with conventional inpatient management. A total of 317 consecutive operations performed by a single surgeon were included in the study. Those eligible according to the criteria of the French Society of Anaesthesia (SFAR) were managed as day cases (127; 40%), while the remainder were managed as inpatients. . The groups were comparable in terms of gender, body mass index and smoking status, although the mean age of the inpatients was higher (p < 0.001) and they had higher mean American Society of Anaesthesiologists scores (p = 0.002). The most severe daily pain was on the first post-operative day, but the levels of pain were similar in the two groups; (4.2/10, . sd. 2.5 for day cases, 4.4/10, . sd. 2.4 for inpatients; p = 0.53). Overall, 28 (9%) of patients who had their surgery as a day case and 34 (11%) of inpatients reported extreme pain (≥ 8/10). There were more day case patients rather than inpatients that declared their pain disappeared seven days after the surgery (p = 0.02). One day-case patient with excessive bleeding was admitted post-operatively. Apart from the most complicated cases, forefoot surgery can safely be performed as a day case without an increased risk of pain, or complications compared with management as an inpatient. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:1645–50

Objectives. To evaluate the applicability of MRI for the quantitative assessment of anterior talofibular ligaments (ATFLs) in symptomatic chronic ankle instability (CAI). Methods. Between 1997 and 2010, 39 patients with symptomatic CAI underwent surgical treatment (22 male, 17 female, mean age 25.4 years (15 to 40)). In all patients, the maximum diameters of the ATFLs were measured on pre-operative T2-weighted MR images in planes parallel to the path of the ATFL. They were classified into three groups based on a previously published method with modifications: ‘normal’, diameter = 1.0 - 3.2 mm; ‘thickened’, diameter > 3.2 mm; ‘thin or absent’, diameter < 1.0 mm. Stress radiography was performed with the maximum manual force in inversion under general anaesthesia immediately prior to surgery. In surgery, ATFLs were macroscopically divided into two categories: ‘thickened’, an obvious thickened ligament and ‘thin or absent’. The imaging results were compared with the macroscopic results that are considered to be of a gold standard. Results. Agreement was reached when comparison was made between groups, based on MRI and macroscopic findings. ATFLs were abnormal in all 39 cases and classified as ten ‘thickened’ and 29 ‘thin or absent’. As to talar tilt stress radiography, a clear cut-off angle, which would allow discrimination between ‘thickened’ and ‘thin or absent’ patients, was not identified. Conclusion. MRI is valuable as a pre-operative assessment tool that can provide the quantitative information of ATFLs in patients with CAI. Cite this article Bone Joint Res 2014;3:241–5

Background. Forefoot surgery is often performed under regional anaesthesia (ankle block) in awake patients, using tourniquet or esmarch bandage to obtain bloodless field. The purpose of this study was to examine the value and need for local tourniquet pain control using local subcutaneous analgesic mixture in patients undergoing forefoot surgery under regional anaesthesia. We prospectively randomized 56 patients who underwent forefoot surgery under ankle block to receive subcutaneous local anaesthetic mixture under the tourniquet. We checked for local tourniquet pain score (VAS 0–100) and skin condition during and after the procedure. Results. Tourniquet was quite tolerable in both groups, with an average VAS score of 7–21. No difference was observed between groups throughout most of the procedure. No correlation between VAS scores and procedure length or patient's age or gender. Conclusion. Ankle tourniquet is well tolerated by patients without need for local anaesthetics

Aims

The number of revision total ankle arthroplasties (TAAs) which are undertaken is increasing. Few studies have reported the survival after this procedure. The primary aim of this study was to analyze the survival of revision ankle arthroplasties using large datasets. Secondary aims were to summarize the demographics of the patients, the indications for revision TAA, further operations, and predictors of survival.

Aims

Arthroscopic microfracture is a conventional form of treatment for patients with osteochondritis of the talus, involving an area of < 1.5 cm². However, some patients have persistent pain and limitation of movement in the early postoperative period. No studies have investigated the combined treatment of microfracture and shortwave treatment in these patients. The aim of this prospective single-centre, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was to compare the outcome in patients treated with arthroscopic microfracture combined with radial extracorporeal shockwave therapy (rESWT) and arthroscopic microfracture alone, in patients with ostechondritis of the talus.

Aims

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a potential complication of foot and ankle surgery. There is a lack of agreement on contributing risk factors and chemical prophylaxis requirements. The primary outcome of this study was to analyze the 90-day incidence of symptomatic VTE and VTE-related mortality in patients undergoing foot and ankle surgery and Achilles tendon (TA) rupture. Secondary aims were to assess the variation in the provision of chemical prophylaxis and risk factors for VTE.

Aims

Although absorbable sutures for the repair of acute Achilles tendon rupture (ATR) have been attracting attention, the rationale for their use remains insufficient. This study prospectively compared the outcomes of absorbable and nonabsorbable sutures for the repair of acute ATR.

Aims

Treatment for delayed wound healing resulting from peripheral vascular diseases and diabetic foot ulcers remains a challenge. A novel surgical technique named ‘tibial cortex transverse transport’ (TTT) has been developed for treating peripheral ischaemia, with encouraging clinical effects. However, its underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In the present study, we explored the potential biological mechanisms of TTT surgery using various techniques in a rat TTT animal model.

The diagnosis of Lisfranc ligament disruption is notoriously difficult. Radiographs and MRI scans are often ambiguous therefore a stress-test examination under anaesthesia is commonly required. Two midfoot stress-tests are in current practice, namely the varus first ray stress-test and the pronation abduction test. The optimal type of stress-test is not however evaluated in the literature. We hypothesised that after the loss of the main plantar stabiliser (the Lisfranc ligament) the patient would demonstrate dorsal instability, not the classic 1. st. /2. nd. metatarsal diastasis commonly described. We therefore devised a push-up test (placement of a force under the 2. nd. metatarsal in an attempt to elevate the base away from the middle cuneiform on the lateral radiograph). We aimed to initially test our hypothesis on a cadaveric model. Twelve fresh frozen cadaveric specimens without previous foot injury were used. The 2. nd. tarsometatarsal joint was exposed and the Lisfranc ligament and dorsal capsule were incised. An image intensifier was positioned and standard anteroposterior (AP) and lateral views were obtained. Two previously reported AP stress-tests (varus first ray stress test, pronation abduction test) and the novel test under investigation (‘Lisfranc Push-Up’ test) were duly performed. Images were obtained once the investigator felt the appropriate views were achieved. All twelve of the Lisfranc Push-Up tests showed dorsal subluxation of the 2. nd. metatarsal on the middle cuneiform of greater than 2mm on the lateral radiograph. No diastasis of the 1. st. /2. nd. metatarsals was seen in any of the specimens on the AP radiograph for either of the other two stress-tests. The authors have described a novel way of demonstrating the dorsal instability associated with the ligamentous Lisfranc injury. Our results support the Lisfranc Push-Up test as a reproducible and sensitive method for assessing ligamentous Lisfranc injuries. In our cadaveric model the previously described stress-tests do not work

Purpose. Ankle and hindfoot surgery is associated with severe post-operative pain, leading to a reliance on opiate analgesia and its side effects, longer hospital stays, and patient dissatisfaction. Popliteal sciatic nerve blockade has the potential to resolve these issues. We present our experience with using a continuous local anaesthetic nerve block delivered by an elastomeric pump in patients undergoing major foot and ankle surgery. Methods. All patients undergoing major ankle or hindfoot surgery during a one-year period under a single surgeon were eligible for a continuous popliteal block. An ultrasound-guided popliteal nerve catheter was inserted immediately before surgery and a bolus of bupivacaine infiltrated. Using a 250ml elastomeric pump, a continuous infusion was started immediately post operatively and terminated 48 hours later. Prospective data including post-operative analgesia, nausea and vomiting (PONV), length of stay (LOS), pain scores, and patient satisfaction were recorded daily for 48 hours post operatively. Results. Eighty-one patients (53 male, 28 female) with a mean age 60 years (24–84 years) were included. 66 patients received spinal anaesthesia with 15 having general anaesthetics. There were no complications associated with the nerve catheters. At day 1 post op, 49 (60%) patients reported having no or mild pain. 68 (84%) patients had no PONV. 27 (33%) patients did not require any opiate analgesia during their post op period. Average LOS for all patients was 54 hours, with 41 (51%) discharged within 48 hours. 74 (91%) reported good or excellent pain management in the post operative period. Conclusions. Continuous popliteal sciatic nerve blockade is a safe and effective method for controlling post-operative pain, reducing opiate-induced side effects, and optimising length of stay. Patient-reported outcomes support its use in major ankle and hindfoot surgery. Furthermore, reduced costs from early discharge in combination with a daycase tariff uplift can bring significant financial savings

Painful peroneal spastic flatfeet without coalition or other known etiologies in adolescence, remains a difficult condition to treat. We present eight such cases with radiological and surgical evidence of bony abnormalities in the lateral subtalar region just anterior to the posterior facet. All patients had presented as tertiary referrals with recalcitrant pain and had undergone a trial of orthotics and physiotherapy. Diagnostic workup included a clinical and radiographic evaluation. Clinical examination consisted of gait examination, foot alignment, range of motion, torsional profile of the lower limbs and marking of symptomatic foci. All patients had standing weightbearing anteroposterior and lateral projections of the foot and ankle, CT and/or MRI scans of the foot. Coalitions and other known intra-articular pathologies like subtalar arthritis were ruled out. All patients had bilateral flatfeet but unilateral peroneal spasm. All patients had an accessory anterolateral talar facet (ATF) which was arising as an anterior and distal extension of the lateral process of the talus. This caused lateral impingement between the facet and the calcaneum, confirmed by bone edema around the sinus tarsi and marked at the apex of the angle of Gissane on MRI scans. All patients had stiff subtalar joints with very limited movement under anaesthesia, indicating peroneal muscle contracture. Patients were treated with a combination of facet excision, fractional peroneal and gastrosoleus lengthening and calcaneal lengthening to correct the flatfoot and prevent lateral impingement

Background. Lisfranc/midfoot injuries are complex injuries with a reported incidence of 1 in 55000 in literature and frequently overlooked. But, recently they are becoming more commonly diagnosed with advent of CT scan and examination under anaesthesias (EUA) for suspicion fractures. Here we present a case series results of a single surgeons experience over the last 6 years. Methods. Retrospective review of 68 patients treated by a single surgeon over the last 6 years. Injuries were diagnosed on plain Xrays, clinic examination. Any suspicious injury were further assessed by a CT scan, all injuries were confirmed by EUA and treated with open reduction and internal fixation within 4 weeks of injury. Post-operative immobilisation in full cast for 6 weeks then a removal boot with non-weight bearing for a total of 3months. They were followed up regularly initially at 3, 6 and 12months. At final review the following data was collected: clinical examination, plain x-ray looking for: late deformity, signs of OA in Lisfranc joint, Auto fusion rate, rate of metal work failure. The x-rays findings were correlated with: (1) type of fixation. (2) The following scores: FAOS, AOFAS-M, specially designed new foot and ankle score. Results. 43 males: 25 females. 37 right: 31 left sided injuries. 90% were fully weight bearing with minimal discomfort after 6months. In 12 months all of them returned to their normal daily life activities. Wound complications: 2 of them had initial wound complications which were treated successfully with 2 weeks of oral antibiotics, 2 had lateral scar tenderness. One had loosened metal work, revised to fusion. Conclusion. Early operative intervention with good anatomical reduction can minimise the potential chronic disability associated with these injuries. This is a largest series of Lis-franc injuries of a single surgeon with good clinical outcome following surgical fixation

Juvenile Chronic Arthritis results in the early degeneration of multiple joints with severe pain and deformity. Treatment of ankle arthritis is complex and ankle replacement is indicated because of adjacent and distant joint involvement. Materials and Methods. We reviewed 25 total ankle replacements in 13 young adults suffering the generalised consequences of Juvenile Chronic Arthritis (JCA) between 2000 and 2009. 12 had bilateral disease, 20 had anklylosis or prior fusion of the hind- or midfoot, and 16 had substantial fixed inversion of the hindfoot. All had previous prosthetic arthroplasty of between 1 and 15 joints. Surgery comprised corrective triple fusion where required, with staged total ankle arthroplasty at an interval of 3 or more months. Results. All patients reported significant reduction in pain, and increased mobility with increased stride length, however severe co-morbidity limited the usefulness of routine outcome scores. No ankles have required revision to date. We noted that the dimensions of the distal tibia and talus are markedly reduced in patients with JCA, and as a result of this and bone fragility, the malleoli were vulnerable to fracture or resection. JCA is also associated with cervical spondilitis and instability, micrognathia, temporomandibula arthritis and crico-arytenoid arthritis, resulting in challenging anaesthesia. Discussion. As a result of our experience, we recommend preoperative CT scan to confirm whether standard or custom implants are required. We also advocate pre-cannulation of both maleoli to reduce the rate of fractures, and facilitate fixation should this occur. Conclusion. Surgery for this group of patients requires specialist anaesthetic input as well as surgical skills

Method. A questionnaire was given to delegates at the British Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (BOFAS) annual scientific meeting 3rd–5th November 2010. A total of 75 questionnaires were included within the analysis. The questionnaire asked delegates for their most commonly performed procedure for a variety of common foot and ankle conditions. Results. Which procedure do you most commonly perform?. Hallux valgus mild;. Chevron 60.0%. Scarf 28.0%. Hallux Valgus Moderate;. Scarf 85.3%. Chevron 12.0%. Hallux Valgus Severe;. Scarf 65.3%. Basal Osteotomy 29.3%. 1st MTPJ OA Fusion;. crossed screws 54.7%. Plate 26.7%. Lesser toe Metatarsalgia;. Weil 48.6%. BRT 22.8%. Hammer second toe;. PIPJ Fusion 62.7%. Oxford Procedure 15%. Tib Post stage 1;. Debridement 60.0%. Conservative 24.0%. Tib Post stage 2;. FDL Transfer 76.0%. Calc. osteotomy 78.7%. Achilles tendon rupture. Open Repair 61.5%. Percutaneous 13.8%. In delegates' normal practice they would fuse an osteoarthritic ankle 90% and perform a Total Ankle replacement 10% of the time. The method of fusion is split 50/50 between arthroscopic and open. Regarding the anaesthetic used for forefoot surgery most are using GA + Regional Block (mean 60%) only occasionally using regional anaesthesia alone (mean 8%). Only 12.3% of delegates have tried minimally invasive [forefoot] surgery (MIS), 17.3% of delegates think they will do more MIS in the future. The practice of British orthopaedic foot and ankle surgeons is broadly in line with an evidence-based approach. Knowledge of current practice may help trainees make sense of the myriad foot and ankle operations described in the literature

The percutanous repair of the Achilles tendon is a cost efficient method of restoring early limb function and may offer reduced risk of re-rupture and wound infection. This technique has been described in the elderly population and elite athletes; we present an evaluation of this technique in a District General Hospital setting. We have prospectively audited the outcome of 56 patients who have elected to have percutaneous repair for Achilles tendon rupture from 2009–2011. The majority were males (44) with mean age of 46 years (range 27–80). Twenty nine patients ruptured the right tendon and 27 the left. 82% (46) of injuries were sustained whilst exercising: e.g. football (22), badminton (7), running (5). All but 2 patients were managed on a Day Case basis and 4 requested general anaesthesia. Patients were immediately weight bearing in a brace following surgery and commenced physiotherapy at 2 weeks. Functional outcome was measured using a modified Achilles Tendon Rupture Score (ATRS) at 3, 6, 9 and 12 months: 100 score equals maximal limitation. The mean ATRS scores a 3, 6, 9 and 12 months were 53 (7–82), 31 (0–74), 30 (0–67) and 15 (1–52) respectively. We have had 4 complications: 2 sural nerve injuries, 1 poor wound healing and 1 re-rupture at 8 weeks. Overall complication rate was 7.1%, comparable to other studies. We have shown a good outcome following percutaneous Achilles tendon repair. The majority of patients show good restoration of function by 3 months and a minor limitation at 6 months. The majority of the improvement in function occurred between 3 and 6 months following surgery. Two patients reported ongoing tendinopathic pain following repair increasing mean scores. We believe this technique can be introduced in District General Hospitals to give good outcome on a cost effective basis

Aims

To assess the characteristic clinical features, management, and outcome of patients who present to orthopaedic surgeons with functional dystonia affecting the foot and ankle.

Introduction. Major ankle and hindfoot surgery has traditionally been performed as an inpatient. Recent advances in minimally invasive surgery and improved post-operative pain management make it possible to contemplate performing major ankle and hindfoot operations as a day-case. This could have a significant impact on length of stay for these major cases, saving resources and in keeping with government policy. In this study, we prospectively audited the outcome of the first cohort of patients undergoing major ankle and hindfoot surgery as a day-case against a series of standards. Methods. Twenty four consecutive patients who underwent ankle or hindfoot surgery between August 2009 and April 2010 were considered for day surgery. Seven patients were deemed not suitable due to co-existing medical conditions or insufficient help at home. This left 17 patients who had ankle or hindfoot surgery as a day case. All patients received an ultrasound-guided regional nerve block and spinal or general anaesthesia. The data was collected on patient demographics, diagnosis, and type of surgical procedure. Patients received the standard follow-up regimen for a particular procedure. Patient satisfaction was assessed using a standard questionnaire which included self-monitoring of post-operative pain at 6, 24 and 48 hrs. In addition, any adverse outcomes were recorded. Results. The average age was 48 (range 23-67) years. There were 7 males and 10 females. The surgical procedures included arthroscopic ankle fusion (5), subtalar fusion (5), talonavicular fusion (1) midfoot fusion with calcaneal osteotomy (1), tibialis posterior reconstruction (3) tendo-achilles reconstruction (1) and arthroscopy and lateral ligament reconstruction (1). 93% patients reported that they were given enough information and advice about their operation as a day case. No patients reported severe pain at 6 hrs. One patient had severe pain at 24 hrs post-op. Four patients (23%) had significant pain at 48 hrs and required strong analgesia. Thirteen (77%) patients stated that they would recommend having this surgery as a day-case if they were having it again whereas four (23%) would prefer staying in overnight. The average length of stay for the patients deemed unsuitable for day surgery was 3.8 (range 1-6) days. Conclusions. Our initial results of performing major ankle and hindfoot procedures as day surgery are encouraging but pain control at 48 hrs still remains an unsolved issue and further optimisation is needed

Percutaneous repair of the ruptured tendo Achillis has a low rate of failure and negligible complications with the wound, but the sural nerve may be damaged. We describe a new technique which minimises the risk of injury to this nerve. The repair is carried out using three midline stab incisions over the posterior aspect of the tendon. A No. 1 nylon suture on a 90 mm cutting needle approximates the tendon with two box stitches. The procedure can be carried out under local anaesthesia. We reviewed 27 patients who had a percutaneous repair at a median interval of 35 months after the injury. They returned to work at four weeks and to sport at 16. One developed a minor wound infection and another complex regional pain syndrome type II. There were no injuries to the sural nerve or late reruptures. This technique is simple to undertake and has a low rate of complications