Introduction. Total contact casting (TCC) is one of the most commonly utilized modalities in the management of diabetic feet. We undertook a retrospective review to determine the prevalence of symptomatic VTE events in patients treated in a weight bearing TCC in our diabetic foot unit, and to formulate guidelines for VTE prophylaxis. Methods. Electronic records were reviewed to identify all patients treated in a TCC between 2014 and 2021. Data collection included patient demographics, comorbidities, period of immobilization in TCC, the incidence of VTE events, and any VTE prophylaxis prescribed during their period in TCC. Results. 549 patients were identified who had at least one episode of TCC. Mean age was 67 years (range 28 to 94 years) and the mean duration in cast was 10.2 weeks (range 0.3–46 weeks). Only 6 patients (1.1%) were prescribed chemical thrombo-prophylaxis during their period in TCC. Mean body mass index (BMI) for these patients was 32.3 (Range 18.4–58.9). Other significant comorbidities: 81% (n-444) of patients had associated cardio-vascular comorbidities; 54 % (n-296) had renal comorbidities including 22% (n-121) having had dialysis and 4.2% (n-23) with renal transplants. Eight of the 549 patients (1.5%) had suffered a VTE event of which only 2 (0.36%) were during the period of immobilization in TCC. One was a symptomatic DVT (0.18%) and the another was an asymptomatic (incidental) finding of pulmonary embolism (PE). There was no mortality related to the VTE episodes. Conclusion. NICE guidelines state that one should “Consider pharmacological VTE prophylaxis for patients with lower limb immobilization”. Our study finds that patients treated in a weight bearing TCC do not require routine pharmacological VTE prophylaxis, in spite of an extended period of lower limb immobilization and significant medical comorbidities

Background. The treatment of chronic calcaneal osteomyelitis is a challenging and increasing problem because of the high prevalence of diabetes mellitus and operative fixation of heel fractures. In 1931, Gaenslen reported treatment of hematogenous calcaneal osteomyelitis by surgical excision through a midline, sagittal plantar incision. We have refined this approach to allow successful healing and early mobilization in a modern series of complex patients with hematogenous, diabetic, and postsurgical osteomyelitis. Methods. Twenty-eight patients (mean age 54.6 years, range 20–94) with Cierny-Mader stage IIIB chronic osteomyelitis were treated with sagittal incision and calcaneal osteotomy, excision of infected bone, and wound closure. All patients received antibiotics for at least 6 weeks, and bone defects were filled with an antibiotic carrier in 20 patients. Patients were followed for a mean of 31 months (SD 25.4). Primary outcome measures were recurrence of calcaneal osteomyelitis and below-knee amputation. Secondary outcome measures included 30-day postoperative mortality and complications, duration of postoperative inpatient stay, footwear adaptions, mobility, and use of walking aids. Results. All 28 patients had failed previous medical and surgical treatment. Eighteen patients (64%) had significant comorbidities. The commonest causes of infection were diabetes ± ulceration (11 patients), fracture-related infection (4 patients), pressure ulceration, hematogenous spread, and penetrating soft tissue trauma. The overall recurrence rate of calcaneal osteomyelitis was 18% (5 patients) over the follow-up period, of which 2 patients (7%) required a below-knee amputation. Eighteen patients (64%) had a foot that comfortably fitted into a normal shoe with a custom insole. A further 6 patients (21%) required a custom-made shoe, and only 3 patients required a custom-made boot. Conclusion. Our results show that a repurposed Gaenslen calcanectomy is simple, safe, and effective in treating this difficult condition in a patient group with significant local and systemic comorbidities

Objectives. The primary objective was to determine the incidence of COVID-19 infection and 30-day mortality in patients undergoing foot and ankle surgery during the global pandemic. Secondary objectives were to determine if there was a change in infection and complication profile with changes introduced in practice. Design. Multicentre retrospective national audit. Setting. UK-based study on foot and ankle patients who underwent surgery between the 13. th. January to 31. st. July 2020 – examining time periods pre- UK national lockdown, during lockdown (23. rd. March to 11. th. May 2020) and post-lockdown. Participants. All adult patients undergoing foot and ankle surgery in an operating theatre during the study period included from 43 participating centres in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Main Outcome Measures. Variables recorded included demographics, surgical data, comorbidity data, COVID-19 and mortality rates, complications, and infection rates. Results. 6644 patients were included. In total 0.52% of operated patients contracted COVID-19 (n=35). The overall all cause 30-day mortality rate was 0.41%, however in patients who contracted COVID-19, the mortality rate was 25.71% (n=9); this was significantly higher for patients undergoing diabetic foot surgery (75%, n=3 deaths). Matching for age, ASA and comorbidities, the OR of mortality with COVID-19 infection was 11.71 (95% CI 1.55 to 88.74, p=0.017). There were no differences in surgical complications or infection rates prior to or after lockdown, and amongst patients with and without COVID-19 infection. After lockdown COVID-19 infection rate was 0.15% and no patient died of COVID-19 infection. Conclusions. COVID-19 infection was rare in foot and ankle patients even at the peak of lockdown. However, there was a significant mortality rate in those who contracted COVID-19. Overall surgical complications and post-operative infection rates remained unchanged during the period of this audit. Patients and treating medical personnel should be aware of the risks to enable informed decisions

Aims. This scoping review aims to identify patient-related factors associated with a poorer outcome following total ankle arthroplasty (TAA). Methods. A scoping review was performed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. A computer-based literature search was performed in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane trials, and Web of Science. Two reviewers independently performed title/abstract and full-text screening according to predetermined selection criteria. English-language original research studies reporting patient-related factors associated with a poorer outcome following TAA were included. Outcomes were defined as patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), perioperative complications, and failure. Results. A total of 94 studies reporting 101,552 cases of TAA in 101,177 patients were included. The most common patient-related risk factor associated with poorer outcomes were younger age (21 studies), rheumatoid arthritis (17 studies), and diabetes (16 studies). Of the studies using multivariable regression specifically, the most frequently described risk factors were younger age (12 studies), rheumatoid arthritis (eight studies), diabetes (eight studies), and high BMI (eight studies). Conclusion. When controlling for confounding factors, the most commonly reported risk factors for poor outcome are younger age, rheumatoid arthritis, and comorbidities such as diabetes and increased BMI. These patient-related risk factors reported may be used to facilitate the refinement of patient selection criteria for TAA and inform patient expectations. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(9):985–992

Aims. Achilles tendon re-rupture (ATRR) poses a significant risk of postoperative complication, even after a successful initial surgical repair. This study aimed to identify risk factors associated with Achilles tendon re-rupture following operative fixation. Methods. This retrospective cohort study analyzed a total of 43,287 patients from national health claims data spanning 2008 to 2018, focusing on patients who underwent surgical treatment for primary Achilles tendon rupture. Short-term ATRR was defined as cases that required revision surgery occurring between six weeks and one year after the initial surgical repair, while omitting cases with simultaneous infection or skin necrosis. Variables such as age, sex, the presence of Achilles tendinopathy, and comorbidities were systematically collected for the analysis. We employed multivariate stepwise logistic regression to identify potential risk factors associated with short-term ATRR. Results. From 2009 to 2018, the short-term re-rupture rate for Achilles tendon surgeries was 2.14%. Risk factors included male sex, younger age, and the presence of Achilles tendinopathy. Conclusion. This large-scale, big-data study reaffirmed known risk factors for short-term Achilles tendon re-rupture, specifically identifying male sex and younger age. Moreover, this study discovered that a prior history of Achilles tendinopathy emerges as an independent risk factor for re-rupture, even following initial operative fixation. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2024;13(7):315–320

Aims. The primary objective was to determine the incidence of COVID-19 infection and 30-day mortality in patients undergoing foot and ankle surgery during the global pandemic. Secondary objectives were to determine if there was a change in infection and complication profile with changes introduced in practice. Methods. This UK-based multicentre retrospective national audit studied foot and ankle patients who underwent surgery between 13 January and 31 July 2020, examining time periods pre-UK national lockdown, during lockdown (23 March to 11 May 2020), and post-lockdown. All adult patients undergoing foot and ankle surgery in an operating theatre during the study period were included. A total of 43 centres in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland participated. Variables recorded included demographic data, surgical data, comorbidity data, COVID-19 and mortality rates, complications, and infection rates. Results. A total of 6,644 patients were included. Of the operated patients, 0.52% (n = 35) contracted COVID-19. The overall all-cause 30-day mortality rate was 0.41%, however in patients who contracted COVID-19, the mortality rate was 25.71% (n = 9); this was significantly higher for patients undergoing diabetic foot surgery (75%, n = 3 deaths). Matching for age, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) grade, and comorbidities, the odds ratio of mortality with COVID-19 infection was 11.71 (95% confidence interval 1.55 to 88.74; p = 0.017). There were no differences in surgical complications or infection rates prior to or after lockdown, and among patients with and without COVID-19 infection. After lockdown the COVID-19 infection rate was 0.15% and no patient died of COVID-19. Conclusion. COVID-19 infection was rare in foot and ankle patients even at the peak of lockdown. However, there was a significant mortality rate in those who contracted COVID-19. Overall surgical complications and postoperative infection rates remained unchanged during the period of this audit. Patients and treating medical personnel should be aware of the risks to enable informed decisions. Cite this article: Bone Joint Open 2021;2(4):216–226

Introduction. Ankle fractures represent approximately 10% of the fracture workload and are projected to increase due to ageing population. We present our 5 years outcome review post-surgical management of ankle fractures in a large UK Trauma unit. Methods. A total of 111 consecutive patients treated for an unstable ankle fracture were entered into a database and prospectively followed up. Baseline patient characteristics, complications, further intervention including additional surgery, functional status were recorded during five-year follow-up. Pre-injury and post-fixation functional outcome measures at 2-years were assessed using Olerud-Molander Ankle Scores (OMAS) and Lower Extremity Functional Scales (LEFS). A p value < 0.05 was considered significant. Results. The mean age was 46 with a male:female ratio of 1:1.1. The distribution of comorbidities was BMI >30 (25%), diabetes (5%), alcohol consumption >20U/week (15%) and smoking (26%). Higher BMI was predictive of worse post-op LEFS score (p = 0.02). Between pre-injury and post fixation functional scores at 2 years, there was a mean reduction of 26.8 (OMAS) and 20.5(LEFS). Using very strict radiological criteria, 31 (28%) had less than anatomical reduction of fracture fragments intra-operatively. This was, however, not predictive of patients' functional outcome in this cohort. Within 5-year period, 22 (20%) patients had removal of metalwork from their ankle, with majority 13 (59%) requiring syndesmotic screw removal. Further interventions included: joint injection (3), deltoid reconstruction (1), arthroscopic debridement (1), superficial sinus excision (2), and conversion to hindfoot nail due to failure of fixation (1). Reduction in OMAS was predictive of patients' ongoing symptoms (p=0.01). Conclusion. There is a significant reduction in functional outcome after ankle fracture fixation and patients should be counselled appropriately. Need for removal of metalwork is higher in patients who require syndesmosis stabilisation with screw(s)

Background. In fixation of the fibula in ankle fractures, AO advocate using a lag screw and one-third tubular neutralisation plate for simple patterns. Where a lag screw cannot be placed, bridging fixation is required. A local pilot service evaluation previously identified variance in use of locking plates in all patterns with significant cost implications. The FAIR study aimed to evaluate current practice and implant use across the United Kingdom (UK) and review outcomes and complication rates between different fibula fixation methods. Method. The study was supported by CORNET, the North East trainee research collaborative, and BOTA. Data was collected using REDCap from 22 centres in the UK retrospectively for a one-year period between 1. st. January 2019 and 31. st. December 2019 on injury mechanism, fracture characteristics, comorbidities, fixation and complications. Follow-up data was collected to at least two-years from the time surgery. Results. 1448 ankle fractures which involved fixation of the fibula were recorded; one-third tubular plate was used in 866 (59.8%) cases, a locking plate in 463 (32.0%) cases and other methods in 119 (8.2%) cases. There was significant difference between centres (p<0.001) in implant type used. Other factors associated with implant type were age, diabetes, osteoporosis, open fractures, fracture pattern and the presence of comminution. Incidence of lateral wound breakdown was higher in locking plates than one-third tubular plates (p<0.05). There was no significant difference in infection, non-union, fixation failure or removal of metalware. Conclusion. There is significant variation in practice in the UK in implant use for fixation of the fibula in ankle fractures. Potentially unnecessary use of locking plates, where a one-third tubular shows equivalent outcomes, incurs additional cost and may increase the risk of lateral wound breakdown. We would encourage surgeons with high locking plate usage to evaluate their own unit's practice against this data

Introduction. Ankle fractures in the elderly are an increasing problem with our aging population. Options for treatment include non-operative and operative with a range of techniques available. Failure of treatment can lead to significant complications, morbidity and poor function. We compared the outcomes of two operative techniques, intramedullary hindfoot nailing (IMN) and fibular-pro-tibia fixation (FPT). This is the largest analysis of these techniques and there are no comparative studies published. Method. We retrospectively reviewed patients over the age of 60 with ankle fractures who were treated operatively between 2012 and 2017. We identified 1417 cases, including 27 patients treated with IMN and 41 treated with FPT. Age, sex, co-morbidities and injury pattern were collected. Primary outcome was re-operation rate. Secondary outcomes included other complications, length of stay and functional status. Results. The IMN group had a higher average co-morbidity score compared with the FPT group (estimated 10-year survival, 21% vs 53%, p=0.03). Re-operation rate was higher in the IMN group compared with FPT (12 v 1, p< 0.0001). There were more complications in the IMN group compared with the FPT group (23 v 11, p< 0.0001). Length of stay was longer in the IMN group (17 v 29 days, p=0.02). Mobility tended to return to baseline in the FPT patients but decreased in the IMN patients. Conclusion. Outcomes were worse in the IMN group compared with the FPT group in terms of re-operation, complications and length of stay. However, the IMN group tended to have increased comorbidities and poorer soft tissues. We believe that both techniques have a role in the management of elderly ankle fractures, but patient selection is key. We suggest FPT should be the first-choice technique when soft tissues permit. We discuss the indications, risks and benefits of each method based on our experience and literature review

Introduction. Achilles tendon rupture (ATR) account for 10.7% of all tendon and ligament injuries and causes lasting muscular deficits and have a profound impact on patients’ quality of life. 1,2. The incidence, characteristics and management of ATR in the United Kingdom is poorly understood. Method. Data was collected prospectively from University Hospitals of Leicester Emergency Department (ED) between January 2016 and December 2020 and analysed retrospectively. The medical records were reviewed to determine management protocols (surgical/non-surgical) and limited mobilisation (VACOped™ boot) duration. Leicestershire population data was taken from Leicestershire County Council demography report. Findings. 277 individuals were diagnosed with an ATR during the 4-year period. The mean (SD) annual incidence was 56 (±6) ATR. An incidence rate of 8.02 per 100,000 people per annum. The average characteristics of those experiencing an ATR is male (78.3%), 46.8yrs old (±14.4), body mass index 29.1 (±6.3). Median (IQR) number of comorbidities 1 (2) and duration to present to ED was 0 days (1). The main mechanism of rupture was sporting activity (62.1%). 97.4% were non-surgically managed using a limited mobilisation boot (VACOped). The boot was worn for an average of 62.6 days (±8.9). 94 participants provided pre-ATR Achilles symptoms data. 16% (n=15/94) of participants reported a previous contralateral ATR. 7.4% reported a re-rupture (n=7/94). 15.4% (n=14/91) reported an Achilles tendinopathy on the ipsilateral side prior to ATR. 7.7% (n=7/91) reported bilateral Achilles tendinopathy and 1.1% (n=1/91) reported contralateral Achilles tendinopathy prior to ATR. Conclusion. The incidence of ATR is 8.02 cases per 100,000 people per annum. This is the first UK data on ATR incidence. Most ATR were managed non-surgically in this cohort. The majority of ruptures occurred during sporting activity. Those that had previous Achilles symptoms (24.2%) indicate tendons are not always asymptomatic prior to ATR

Aims. Surgical reconstruction of deformed Charcot feet carries a high risk of nonunion, metalwork failure, and deformity recurrence. The primary aim of this study was to identify the factors contributing to these complications following hindfoot Charcot reconstructions. Methods. We retrospectively analyzed patients who underwent hindfoot Charcot reconstruction with an intramedullary nail between January 2007 and December 2019 in our unit. Patient demographic details, comorbidities, weightbearing status, and postoperative complications were noted. Metalwork breakage, nonunion, deformity recurrence, concurrent midfoot reconstruction, and the measurements related to intramedullary nail were also recorded. Results. There were 70 patients with mean follow-up of 54 months (SD 26). Overall, 51 patients (72%) and 52 patients (74%) were fully weightbearing at one year postoperatively and at final follow-up, respectively. The overall hindfoot union rate was 83% (58/70 patients). Age, BMI, glycated haemoglobin, and prior revascularization did not affect union. The ratio of nail diameter and isthmus was greater in the united compared to the nonunited group (0.90 (SD 0.06) and 0.86 (SD 0.09), respectively; p = 0.034). In those with a supplementary hindfoot compression screw, there was a 95% union rate (19/20 patients), compared to 78% in those without screws (39/50 patients; p = 0.038). All patients with a miss-a-nail hindfoot compression screw went on to union. Hindfoot metalwork failure was seen in 13 patients (19%). An intact medial malleolus was found more frequently in those with intact metalwork ((77% (44/57 patients) vs 54% (7/13 patients); p = 0.022) and in those with union ((76% (44/58 patients) vs 50% (6/12 patients); p = 0.018). Broken metalwork occurred more frequently in patients with nonunions (69% (9/13 patients) vs 9% (5/57 patients); p < 0.001) and midfoot deformity recurrence (69% (9/13 patients) vs 9% (5/57 patients); p < 0.001). Conclusion. Rates of hindfoot union and intact metalwork were noted in over 80% of patients. Union after hindfoot reconstruction occurs more frequently with an isthmic fit of the intramedullary nail and supplementary hindfoot screws. An intact medial malleolus is protective against nonunion and hindfoot metalwork failure. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(6):703–708

Aims

Despite the increasing numbers of ankle arthroplasties, there are limited studies on their survival and comparisons between different implants. The primary aim of this study was to determine the failure rates of primary ankle arthroplasties commonly used in the UK.

Aims

Implant failure has become more common as the number of primary total ankle arthroplasties (TAAs) performed has increased. Although revision arthroplasty has gained attention for functional preservation, the long-term results remain unclear. This study aimed to assess the long-term outcomes of revision TAA using a mobile-bearing prosthesis in a considerably large cohort; the risk factors for failure were also determined.

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

When a total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) fails, it can be converted to a fusion or a revision arthroplasty. Despite the increasing numbers of TAAs being undertaken, there is little information in the literature about the management of patients undergoing fusion following a failed TAA. The primary aim of this study was to analyze the survival of fusions following a failed TAA using a large dataset from the National Joint Registry (NJR).

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. Flexor hallucis longus (FHL) tendon transfer is a well-recognized technique in the treatment of the neglected tendo Achillis (TA) rupture. Patients and Methods. We report a retrospective review of 20/32 patients who had undergone transtendinous FHL transfer between 2003 and 2011 for chronic TA rupture. Their mean age at the time of surgery was 53 years (22 to 83). The mean time from rupture to surgery was seven months (1 to 36). The mean postoperative follow-up was 73 months (29 to 120). Six patients experienced postoperative wound complications. Results. The mean postoperative Achilles tendon Total Rupture Score (ATRS) was 83 (40 to 100) and the mean American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) score was 94.3 (82 to 100). Tegner scoring showed a mean reduction of one level from the pre-injury level of activity. There was a mean reduction of 24% (4 to 54) in dynamometer-measured strength of ankle plantarflexion, in comparison with the non-operated side. The hallux had a mean of only 40% (2 to 90) strength of plantarflexion in comparison with the contralateral side. Conclusion. We conclude that transtendinous FHL transfer for neglected TA ruptures, with a long harvest to allow reattachment of the triceps surae, provides reliable long-term function and good ankle plantarflexion strength. Despite the loss of strength in hallux plantar flexion, there is little comorbidity from the FHL harvest. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2018;100-B:584–9

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.

Introduction. Uncontrolled deep sepsis in the diabetic foot often leads to below knee amputation (BKA). However, for deep sepsis in the forefoot, a transmetatarsal amputation can be curative while preserving the native ankle and hindfoot and allowing mobility without a prosthesis. We critically examined the outcome of transmetatarsal amputation in our diabetic patients with forefoot ulceration and proven osteomyelitis. Materials and Methods. Data were collected prospectively at the multidisciplinary diabetic foot clinic. We recorded demographic details, duration of diabetes, comorbidities, nature of ulceration, radiological findings, Texas wound score and details of surgery. Patients were followed up regularly in the diabetes clinic. Medical records were reviewed and complications recorded. Results. Between January 2005 and December 2008, eleven patients (nine male, two female) underwent transmetatarsal amputation for osteomyelitis resistant to antibiotic therapy. Mean age was 58.5 years. Of the ten followed up, six had an intact hindfoot stump in Feburary 2010 (mean 36 months, range 32-46). One patient died with the stump intact at 21 months. Five patients remained ambulatory, while two had already been using a wheelchair. Three patients required BKA for continued sepsis and ischaemia. Discussion. Given the high comorbidities of our patients, it is encouraging that 7 out of 10 patients had successful transmetatarsal amputations. Numbers are small, as the procedure has a relatively narrow indication (severe sepsis confined to the forefoot). In retrospect, pre-operative MRI might have helped to delineate the extent of necrosis, and might have led to better patient ion and a lower re-operation rate. Conclusions. BKA is not necessary for all diabetic feet with uncontrolled deep sepsis. Transmetatarsal amputation can preserve the hindfoot and maintain ambulatory function for three years or more, even in complex patients with comorbidities. Decision-making and perioperative care are challenging and require a dedicated multidisciplinary team

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.