Aims. The rationale for exacting restoration of skeletal anatomy after unstable ankle fracture is to improve outcomes by reducing complications from malunion; however, current definitions of malunion lack confirmatory clinical evidence. Methods. Radiological (absolute radiological measurements aided by computer software) and clinical (clinical interpretation of radiographs) definitions of malunion were compared within the Ankle Injury Management (AIM) trial cohort, including people aged ≥ 60 years with an unstable ankle fracture. Linear regressions were used to explore the relationship between radiological malunion (RM) at six months and changes in function at three years. Function was assessed with the Olerud-Molander Ankle Score (OMAS), with a minimal clinically important difference set as six points, as per the AIM trial. Piecewise linear models were used to investigate new radiological thresholds which better explain symptom impact on ankle function. Results. Previously described measures of RM and surgeon opinion of clinically significant malunion (CSM) were shown to be related but with important differences. CSM was more strongly related to outcome (-13.9 points on the OMAS; 95% confidence interval (CI) -21.9 to -5.4) than RM (-5.5 points; 95% CI -9.8 to -1.2). Existing malunion thresholds for talar tilt and tibiofibular clear space were shown to be slightly conservative; new thresholds which better explain function were identified (talar tilt > 2.4°; tibiofibular clear space > 6 mm). Based on this new definition the presence of RM had an impact on function, which was statistically significant, but the clinical significance was uncertain (-9.1 points; 95% CI -13.8 to -4.4). In subsequent analysis, RM of a posterior malleolar fracture was shown to have a statistically significant impact on OMAS change scores, but the clinical significance was uncertain (-11.6 points; 95% CI -21.9 to -0.6). Conclusion. These results provide clinical evidence which supports the previously accepted definitions. Further research to investigate more conservative clinical thresholds for malunion is indicated. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2022;3(10):841–849

Background. The complex deformities in cavovarus feet may be difficult to assess and understand. Weight-bearing CT (WBCT) is increasingly used to evaluate complex deformities. However, the bone axes may be difficult to calculate in the setting of severe deformity. Computer-assisted 3D-axis calculation is a novel approach that may allow for more accurate assessment of foot alignment / deformity. The aim of this study was to assess differences in measurements done manually on 2D slices of WBCT versus 3D computer models in normal and cavus feet. Methods. We retrospectively analyzed WBCT scans from 16 normal and 16 cavus feet in patients with Charcot-Marie Tooth. Eight measurements were assessed: Talus-1. st. metatarsal angle (axial plane), Forefoot arch angle (coronal plane), and Meary's angle, calcaneal pitch, cuneiform to floor, cuneiform to skin, navicular to floor and navicular to skin distance (sagittal plane). 2D measurements were performed manually and 3D measurements were performed using specialised software (BoneLogic, DISIOR). Results. There was no significant difference in the measured variables (2D manual versus 3D automated) in normal feet. In the cavus group, 3D assessment calculated increased values for the sagittal angles: Meary's 7.3 degrees greater (p = 0.004), calcaneal pitch 2.4 degrees greater (p = 0.011)), and lower values for the axial talus-1. st. MT angle, 10.6 degrees less (p = 0.001). Conclusion. There were no significant differences in the normal group. This suggests 3D automated techniques can reliably assess the alignment of bony axes. However, the 3D axis calculations suggest there may be greater sagittal and lesser axial deformity in cavus feet than measured by 2D techniques. This discrepancy may be on account of the rotation seen in cavovarus feet, which may not be readily assessed manually. 3D automated measurements may therefore have a role in better assessing and classifying the cavus foot which may ultimately help inform treatment algorithms

Aims

The Vantage Total Ankle System is a fourth-generation low-profile fixed-bearing implant that has been available since 2016. We aimed to describe our early experience with this implant.

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

The aim of this study was to investigate whether on-demand removal (ODR) is noninferior to routine removal (RR) of syndesmotic screws regarding functional outcome.

Aims

A pilon fracture is a severe ankle joint injury caused by high-energy trauma, typically affecting men of working age. Although relatively uncommon (5% to 7% of all tibial fractures), this injury causes among the worst functional and health outcomes of any skeletal injury, with a high risk of serious complications and long-term disability, and with devastating consequences on patients’ quality of life and financial prospects. Robust evidence to guide treatment is currently lacking. This study aims to evaluate the clinical and cost-effectiveness of two surgical interventions that are most commonly used to treat pilon fractures.

Introduction:. Symptomatic treatment of ankle osteoarthritis (OA) with corticosteroid injections is well established. Hyaluronic acid is also reported as an effective symptomatic treatment for ankle OA but these two treatments have not been compared directly. Methods:. A prospective randomised controlled trial in patients with symptomatic ankle osteoarthritis. Twenty patients per group were required based on a significance level of 0.05, and a drop out rate of 5%. Patients were blindly allocated to the treatment or control group. Injections were carried out by the clinician in the outpatient department. Treatment group received Ostenil 20 mg and control group received Depomedrone 40 mg (both as single injections). The treatment arm was allocated by computer generated block randomization to match treatment allocation with grade of arthritis. The primary outcome measure was the change in Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) pain score at 6 months. Secondary outcome was the change in AOFAS score at 6 months. Research ethics committee approval was obtained. Results:. A total of 42 patients were recruited of which 38 completed the study. Male recruits predominated (79%; 33 recruits). More than 70% had radiographic OA of grade 3 or more. Both groups demonstrated statistically significant improvements in VAS at weeks 3, 6, and 3 months over baseline, but the Ostenil group faired better at 6 months follow-up. (difference in VAS scores of 3.5 Ostenil VAS − 4; Steroid VAS − 7.5; Mann Whitney test (p<=0.05). There was no statistical difference in AOFAS scores between both groups at baseline and follow-up (p=0.48, Mann Whitney test). No complications noted. 30% of patients have had their surgical procedures delayed for 6 month post injection. Conclusion:. The Ostenil group revealed similar clinical efficacy to steroid group, however the benefits provided by Ostenil lasted longer. Ostenil provided sufficient mid-term pain-relief whilst patient awaits further definitive intervention

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

Objectives

The aim of this study was to compare the biomechanical stability and clinical outcome of external fixator combined with limited internal fixation (EFLIF) and open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) in treating Sanders type 2 calcaneal fractures.

Aims

Few reports compare the contribution of the talonavicular articulation to overall range of movement in the sagittal plane after total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) and tibiotalar arthrodesis. The purpose of this study was to assess changes in ROM and functional outcomes following tibiotalar arthrodesis and TAA.

We hypothesised that a minimally invasive peroneus brevis tendon transfer would be effective for the management of a chronic rupture of the Achilles tendon. In 17 patients (three women, 14 men) who underwent minimally invasive transfer and tenodesis of the peroneus brevis to the calcaneum, at a mean follow-up of 4.6 years (2 to 7) the modified Achilles tendon total rupture score (ATRS) was recorded and the maximum circumference of the calf of the operated and contralateral limbs was measured. The strength of isometric plantar flexion of the gastrocsoleus complex and of eversion of the ankle were measured bilaterally. Functional outcomes were classified according to the four-point Boyden scale.

At the latest review, the mean maximum circumference of the calf of the operated limb was not significantly different from the pre-operative mean value, (41.4 cm, 32 to 50 vs 40.6 cm, 33 to 46; p = 0.45), and not significantly less than that of the contralateral limb (43.1 cm, 35 to 52; p = 0.16). The mean peak torque (244.6 N, 125 to 367) and the strength of eversion of the operated ankle (149.1 N, 65 to 240) were significantly lower (p < 0.01) than those of the contralateral limb (mean peak torque 289, 145 to 419; strength of eversion: 175.2, 71 to 280). The mean ATRS significantly improved from 58 pre-operatively (35 to 68) to 91 (75 to 97; 95% confidence interval 85.3 to 93.2) at the time of final review. Of 13 patients who practised sport at the time of injury, ten still undertook recreational activities.

This procedure may be safely performed, is minimally invasive, and allows most patients to return to pre-injury sport and daily activities.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:353–7.

We conducted a randomised controlled trial to determine whether active intense pulsed light (IPL) is an effective treatment for patients with chronic mid-body Achilles tendinopathy. A total of 47 patients were randomly assigned to three weekly therapeutic or placebo IPL treatments. The primary outcome measure was the Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment – Achilles (VISA-A) score. Secondary outcomes were a visual analogue scale for pain (VAS) and the Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS). Outcomes were recorded at baseline, six weeks and 12 weeks following treatment. Ultrasound assessment of the thickness of the tendon and neovascularisation were also recorded before and after treatment.

There was no significant difference between the groups for any of the outcome scores or ultrasound measurements by 12 weeks, showing no measurable benefit from treatment with IPL in patients with Achilles tendinopathy.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:504–9.

It has been suggested that a supramalleolar osteotomy can return the load distribution in the ankle joint to normal. However, due to the lack of biomechanical data, this supposition remains empirical. The purpose of this biomechanical study was to determine the effect of simulated supramalleolar varus and valgus alignment on the tibiotalar joint pressure, in order to investigate its relationship to the development of osteoarthritis. We also wished to establish the rationale behind corrective osteotomy of the distal tibia.

We studied 17 cadaveric lower legs and quantified the changes in pressure and force transfer across the tibiotalar joint for various degrees of varus and valgus deformity in the supramalleolar area. We assumed that a supramalleolar osteotomy which created a varus deformity of the ankle would result in medial overload of the tibiotalar joint. Similarly, we thought that creating a supramalleolar valgus deformity would cause a shift in contact towards the lateral side of the tibiotalar joint. The opposite was observed. The restricting role of the fibula was revealed by carrying out an osteotomy directly above the syndesmosis. In end-stage ankle osteoarthritis with either a valgus or varus deformity, the role of the fibula should be appreciated and its effect addressed where appropriate.