Introduction

Diabetic foot disease is a major public health problem with an annual NHS expenditure in excess of £1 billion. Infection increases risk of major amputation fivefold. Due to the polymicrobial nature of diabetic foot infections, it is often difficult to isolate the correct organism with conventional culture techniques, to deliver appropriate narrow spectrum antibiotics. Rapid DNA-based technology using multi-channel arrays presents a quicker alternative and has previously been used effectively in intensive care and respiratory medicine.

Aims

To our knowledge, there is currently no information available about the rate of venous thromboembolism (VTE) or recommendations regarding chemoprophylaxis for patients whose lower limb is immobilized in a plaster cast. We report a retrospective case series assessing the rate of symptomatic VTE in patients treated with a lower limb cast. Given the complex, heterogeneous nature of this group of patients, with many risk factors for VTE, we hypothesized that the rate of VTE would be higher than in the general population.

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

Aims. The optimal management of posterior malleolar ankle fractures, a prevalent type of ankle trauma, is essential for improved prognosis. However, there remains a debate over the most effective surgical approach, particularly between screw and plate fixation methods. This study aims to investigate the differences in outcomes associated with these fixation techniques. Methods. We conducted a comprehensive review of clinical trials comparing anteroposterior (A-P) screws, posteroanterior (P-A) screws, and plate fixation. Two investigators validated the data sourced from multiple databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Web of Science). Following PRISMA guidelines, we carried out a network meta-analysis (NMA) using visual analogue scale and American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Score (AOFAS) as primary outcomes. Secondary outcomes included range of motion limitations, radiological outcomes, and complication rates. Results. The NMA encompassed 13 studies, consisting of four randomized trials and eight retrospective ones. According to the surface under the cumulative ranking curve-based ranking, the A-P screw was ranked highest for improvements in AOFAS and exhibited lowest in infection and peroneal nerve injury incidence. The P-A screws, on the other hand, excelled in terms of VAS score improvements. Conversely, posterior buttress plate fixation showed the least incidence of osteoarthritis grade progression, postoperative articular step-off ≥ 2 mm, nonunions, and loss of ankle dorsiflexion ≥ 5°, though it underperformed in most other clinical outcomes. Conclusion. The NMA suggests that open plating is more likely to provide better radiological outcomes, while screw fixation may have a greater potential for superior functional and pain results. Nevertheless, clinicians should still consider the fragment size and fracture pattern, weighing the advantages of rigid biomechanical fixation against the possibility of soft-tissue damage, to optimize treatment results. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2024;5(3):227–235

Background. Supination-external rotation (SER) injuries make up 80% of all ankle fractures. SER stage 2 injuries (AITFL and Weber B) are considered stable. SER stage 3 injury includes disruption of the posterior malleolus (or PITFL). In SER stage 4 there is either medial malleolus fracture or deltoid injury too. SER 4 injuries have been considered unstable, requiring surgery. The deltoid ligament is a key component of ankle stability, but clinical tests to assess deltoid injury have low specificity. This study specifically investigates the role of the components of the deep deltoid ligament in SER ankle fractures. Aim. To investigate the effect of deep deltoid ligament injury on SER ankle fracture stability. Methods. Four matched pairs (8 specimens) were tested using a standardised protocol. Specimens were sequentially tested for stability when axially loaded with a custom rig with up to 750N. Specimens were tested with: ankle intact; lateral injury (AITFL and Weber B); additional posterior injury (PITFL); additional anterior deep deltoid; additional posterior deep deltoid; lateral side ORIF. Clinical photographs and radiographs were recorded. In addition, dynamic stress radiographs were performed after sectioning the deep deltoid and then after fracture fixation to assess tilt of the talus in eversion. Results. All specimens with an intact posterior deep deltoid ligament were stable when loaded and showed no talar tilt on dynamic assessment. Once the posterior deep deltoid ligament was sectioned there was instability in all specimens. Surgical stabilisation of the lateral side prevented talar shift but not talar tilt. Conclusion. If the posterior deep deltoid ligament is intact SER fractures may be managed without surgery in a plantigrade cast. Without immobilisation the talus may tilt, risking deltoid incompetence

Introduction. Osteoarthritis in the foot and ankle affects approximately 30,000 patients annually in the UK. Evidence has shown that excess weight exacerbates foot pain, with significant increases in joint forces. However, despite the current trend for Clinical Commissioning Groups to ration surgery for obese patients, studies have not yet determined the effect of weight loss in obese patients with foot and ankle arthritis. Aim. Pilot study to investigate the effect of simulated weight loss on pain scores in obese patients with symptomatic foot and ankle arthritis. Methods. Following ethical approval, a prospective study of 17 obese patients (mean BMI 39.2, range 31.2 – 50.3) with foot and ankle arthritis was undertaken (BOFAS funded). Under physiotherapist supervision, patients walked for one minute on an anti-gravity treadmill, which allowed simulated weight reduction. Following baseline assessment, reduced BMI was simulated, starting at 20, rising in increments of 5, until each patient's usual BMI was reached. Pain was assessed using a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Repeated measures ANOVA was used to assess for significant changes in pain, comparing baseline with each simulated BMI category (significance set at p< 0.05). Results. Simulated weight loss caused a significant reduction in pain (p=0.005, power 0.91). Mean VAS pain scores improved by 24% (p=0.003) and 17% (p=0.040) for BMI categories 20 and 25, compared with baseline. Pain scores were not significantly different comparing BMI categories of 25 and 20. Conclusion. Simulated weight loss to normal BMI significantly decreased pain in obese patients with foot and ankle arthritis. The use of the anti-gravity treadmill to demonstrate the feeling of normal BMI has also provided motivation to several patients to lose weight. The current study could be used to power future studies to investigate the effects of weight loss in foot and ankle patients

Background. Lateral ankle instability is a common problem, but the precise role of the lateral ankle structures has not been accurately investigated. This study aimed to accurately investigate lateral ankle complex stability for the first time using a novel robotic testing platform. Method. A six degrees of freedom robot manipulator and a universal force/torque sensor were used to test 10 foot and ankle specimens. The system automatically defined the path of unloaded plantar/dorsi flexion. At four flexion angles: 20° dorsiflexion, neutral flexion, 20° and 40° of plantarflexion; anterior-posterior (90N), internal-external (5Nm) and inversion-eversion (8Nm) laxity were tested. The motion of the intact ankle was recorded first and then replayed following transection of the lateral retinaculum, Anterior Talofibular Ligament (ATFL) and Calcaneofibular Ligament (CFL). The decrease in force/torque reflected the contribution of the structure to restraining laxity. Data were analysed using repeated measures of variance and paired t-tests. Results. The ATFL was the primary restraint to anterior drawer (P< 0.01) and the CFL the primary restraint to inversion throughout range (P< 0.04), but with increased plantarflexion the ATFL's contribution increased. The ATFL had a significant role in resisting tibial external rotation, particularly at higher levels of plantarflexion, contributing 63% at 40° (P< 0.01). The CFL provided the greatest resistance to external tibial rotation, 22% at 40° plantarflexion (P< 0.01). The extensor retinaculum and skin did not offer significant restraint in any direction tested. Conclusion. This study shows accurately for the first time the significant role the ATFL and CFL have in rotational ankle stability. This significant loss in rotational stability may have implications in the aetiology of osteophyte formation and early degenerative changes in patients with chronic ankle instability. This is the first time the role of the lateral ankle complex has been quantified using a robotic testing platform

Aims. Osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLT) are a common cause of disability and chronic ankle pain. Many operative treatment strategies have been introduced; however, they have their own disadvantages. Recently lesion repair using autologous cartilage chip has emerged therefore we investigated the efficacy of particulated autologous cartilage transplantation (PACT) in OLT. Methods. We retrospectively analyzed 32 consecutive symptomatic patients with OLT who underwent PACT with minimum one-year follow-up. Standard preoperative radiography and MRI were performed for all patients. Follow-up second-look arthroscopy or MRI was performed with patient consent approximately one-year postoperatively. Magnetic resonance Observation of Cartilage Repair Tissue (MOCART) score and International Cartilage Repair Society (ICRS) grades were used to evaluate the quality of the regenerated cartilage. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the pain visual analogue scale (VAS), Foot Function Index (FFI), and Foot Ankle Outcome Scale (FAOS). Results. All patients had ICRS grade IV cartilage lesions, except for one (ICRS grade III). The paired MOCART scores significantly improved from 42.5 (SD 1.53) to 63.5 (SD 22.60) (p = 0.025) in ten patients. Seven patients agreed to undergo second-look arthroscopy; 5 patients had grade I (normal) ICRS scores and two patients had grade II (nearly normal) ICRS scores. VAS, FFI, and all subscales of FAOS were significantly improved postoperatively (p ≤ 0.003). Conclusion. PACT significantly improved the clinical, radiological, and morphological outcomes of OLT. We consider this to be a safe and effective surgical method based on the short-term clinical results of this study. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2023;4(12):942–947

Aims. Arthroscopic microfracture is a conventional form of treatment for patients with osteochondritis of the talus, involving an area of < 1.5 cm. 2. 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. Methods. Patients were randomly enrolled into two groups. At three weeks postoperatively, the rESWT group was given shockwave treatment, once every other day, for five treatments. In the control group the head of the device which delivered the treatment had no energy output. The two groups were evaluated before surgery and at six weeks and three, six and 12 months postoperatively. The primary outcome measure was the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle-Hindfoot Scale. Secondary outcome measures included a visual analogue scale (VAS) score for pain and the area of bone marrow oedema of the talus as identified on sagittal fat suppression sequence MRI scans. Results. A total of 40 patients were enrolled and randomly divided into the two groups, with 20 in each. There was no statistically significant difference in the baseline characteristics of the groups. No complications, such as wound infection or neurovascular injury, were found during follow-up of 12 months. The mean AOFAS scores in the rESWT group were significantly higher than those in the control group at three, six, and 12 months postoperatively (p < 0.05). The mean VAS pain scores in the rESWT group were also significantly lower than those in the control group at these times (p < 0.05). The mean area of bone marrow oedema in the rESWT group was significantly smaller at six and 12 months than in the control group at these times (p < 0.05). Conclusion. Local shockwave therapy was safe and effective in patients with osteochondiritis of the talus who were treated with a combination of arthroscopic surgery and rESWT. Preliminary results showed that, compared with arthroscopic microfracture alone, those treated with arthroscopic microfracture combined with rESWT had better relief of pain at three months postoperatively and improved weightbearing and motor function of the ankle. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(10):1108–1114

Aims. The Chopart joint complex is a joint between the midfoot and hindfoot. The static and dynamic support system of the joint is critical for maintaining the medial longitudinal arch of the foot. Any dysfunction leads to progressive collapsing flatfoot deformity (PCFD). Often, the tibialis posterior is the primary cause; however, contrary views have also been expressed. The present investigation intends to explore the comprehensive anatomy of the support system of the Chopart joint complex to gain insight into the cause of PCFD. Methods. The study was conducted on 40 adult embalmed cadaveric lower limbs. Chopart joint complexes were dissected, and the structures supporting the joint inferiorly were observed and noted. Results. The articulating bones exhibit features like a cuboid shelf and navicular beak, which appear to offer inferior support to the joint. The expanse of the spring ligament complex is more medial than inferior, while the superomedial part is more extensive than the intermediate and inferoplantar parts. The spring ligament is reinforced by the tendons in the superomedial part (the main tendon of tibialis posterior), the inferomedial part (the plantar slip of tibialis posterior), and the master knot of Henry positioned just inferior to the gap between the inferomedial and inferoplantar bundles. Conclusion. This study highlights that the medial aspect of the talonavicular articulation has more extensive reinforcement in the form of superomedial part of spring ligament and tibialis posterior tendon. The findings are expected to prompt further research in weightbearing settings on the pathogenesis of flatfoot. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2024;5(4):335–342

Introduction. Tibial nerve anatomy has not been studied profoundly in comparison to Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome (TTS). Assuming symptoms are caused by an anatomical variant or mechanical cause regarding the tibial nerve, it is essential to investigate the anatomy of this structure taking in consideration that surgical and conservative treatments have shown poor results. Methods. 40 lower-leg specimens were obtained. Dissection started 20 centimeters proximal to the Dellon-McKinnon (DM) line towards the medial aspect of the naviculo-cuneiform joint distally. Anteriorly, dissection began at the tibio-talar medial gutter until the medial aspect of the Achilles tendon posteriorly. The plantar aspect extended from medial to lateral within the parameters previously described, ending at the level of the second metatarsal. Results. The flexor retinaculum had a denser consistency in 22.5% of the cases and the average length was 51.9 mm. The flexor retinaculum as an independent structure was found absent and 77.2% of cases as undistinguished extension of the crural fascia. The lateral plantar nerver (LPN) and abductor digiti minimi (ADM) nerve shared same origin in 80% of cases, 34.5% bifurcated proximal to the DM line, 31.2% distally and 34.3% at the same level. The medial calcaneal nerve (MCN) emerged proximal to the DM line in 100% of specimens. The medial plantar nerve (MPN) has its origin proximal to the DM line in 95% of cases. Conclusion. The flexor retinaculum is an extension of the crural fascia and not an independent structure. The LPN and ADM have the same origin in most cases and this presents as an important finding that must be studied in detail for clinical correlations between the motor and sensatory affections of the ADM and LPN respectively. Finally, the branches of the MCN and MPN are the most constant in their distribution and proximal origin in relation to the Dellon-McKinnon line

Insertional Achilles tendinitis with considerable degeneration that failed non-operative treatment typically requires tendon debridement and reattachment to bone. It is common practice for tendons to be reattached back with anchor sutures, but this poses a challenge to patients who are not able to afford them. Bony anchorage of tendons may be performed by passing sutures through tunnels, but the strength of repair compared to by using anchors is not known. We investigated the load at clinical and catastrophic failure of these two methods of reattachment. Sixteen paired Achilles tendons along with the calcaneus were harvested from eight fresh frozen cadavers. Paired randomization was done. For the anchor suture group, two 5’0 anchors with polyethylene #2 sutures were used for reattachment whereas for the suture only group, tendons were reattached to bone using braided polyester #2 sutures via two bony tunnels. All samples were mounted on a materials testing system and preloaded at 50N for 60sec before load to failure at a rate of 1mm/sec. With the assumption that preloading has removed tendon crimp and any subsequent extension is a result of gapping at the repair site, loads at 5mm, 10mm, 15mm, and 20mm of extension were noted as well as the maximal load at failure. We found higher loads were needed to cause an extension of 5 to 20mm in the suture only group compared to the anchor suture group but these data were not significant. On the other hand, the anchor suture group required higher loads before catastrophic failure occurred compared to the suture only group, but this again is not significant. We conclude that suture only reattachment of the Achilles tendon is comparable in strength with anchor suture reattachment, and this method of reattachment can be considered for patients who do not have access to anchor sutures

Background. Many approaches to management of medial malleolar fractures are described in the literature however, their morphology is under investigated. The aim of this study was to analyse the morphology of medial malleolar fractures to identify any association with medial malleolar fracture non-union or malunion. Methods. Patients who had undergone surgical fixation of their MMF were identified from 2012 to 2022, using electronic patient records in a single centre. Analysis of their preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative radiographs was performed to determine their morphology and prevalence of non-union and malunion. Lauge-Hansen classification was used to characterise ankle fracture morphology and Herscovici classification to characterise MMF morphology. Results. A total of 650 patients were identified across a 10-year period which could be included in the study. The overall non-union rate for our cohort was 18.77% (122/650). The overall malunion rate was 6.92% (45/650). There was no significant difference in union rates across the Herscovici classification groups. Herscovici type A fractures were significantly more frequently malreduced at time of surgery as compared to other fracture types (p=.003). Medial wall blowout combined with Hercovici type B fractures showed a significant increase in malunion rate. There is a higher rate of bone union in patients who have been anatomically reduced. Conclusion. The morphology of medial malleolar fractures does have an impact of the radiological outcome following surgical management. Medial wall blowout fractures were most prevalent in adduction-type injuries; however, it should not be ruled out in rotational injuries with medial wall blowouts combined with and Herscovici type B fractures showing a significant increase in malunions. Herscovici type A fractures had significantly higher malreductions however the clinical implications of mal reducing small avulsions is unknown

Introduction. Anatomic reduction of talar body fractures is critical in restoring congruency to the talocrural joint. Previous studies have indicated a maximum of 25% talar body exposure without malleolar osteotomy. The aim of this study was to investigate the percentage talar body exposure when using the lateral transligamentous approach. Methods. The lateral transligamentous approach to the talus was undertaken in 10 fresh frozen cadaveric specimens by surgeons inexperienced in the approach, following demonstration of the technique. An incision was made on the anterolateral aspect of the ankle augmented by the removal of the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) and the calcaneofibular ligament (CFL) from their fibular insertions. A bone lever was then placed behind the lateral aspect of the talus and levered forward with the foot in equinus and inversion. The talus was disarticulated and high resolution images were taken of the talar dome surface. The images were overlain with a reproducible nine-grid division. Accessibility to each zone within the grid with a perpendicular surgical blade was documented. ImageJ software was used to calculate the surface area exposed with each approach. Results. The mean percentage area of talar dome available through the transligamentous approach was 77.3 % (95% confidence interval 73.3, 81.3). In all specimens the complete lateral talar process was accessible, along with the lateral and dorsomedial aspect of the talar neck. This approach gives complete access to Zones 1,2, 3,5 & 6 with partial access to Zones 4,8 & 9. Conclusion. The lateral transligamentous approach to the talus provides significantly greater access to the talar dome as compared to standard approaches. The residual surface area that is inaccessible with this approach is predominantly within Zone 4 and Zone 7, the posteromedial corner

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

Despite advancements, revision rates following total ankle replacement (TAR) are high in comparison to other total joint replacements. This explant analysis study aimed to investigate whether there was appreciable metal particulate debris release from various contemporary TARs by describing patterns of material loss. Twenty-eight explanted TARs (9 designs: 3 fixed and 6 mobile bearing), revised for any reason, were studied. The articulating surfaces of the metal tibial and talar components as well as the polyethylene insert were assessed for damage features using light microscopy. Based on the results of the microscopic analysis, scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy was performed to determine the composition of embedded debris identified, as well as non-contacting 3D profilometry. Pitting, indicative of material loss, was identified on the articulating surfaces of 54% of tibial components and 96% of talar components. Bearing constraint was not found to be a factor, with similar proportions of fixed and mobile bearing metal components showing pitting. More cobalt-chromium than titanium alloy tibial components exhibited pitting (63% versus 20%). Significantly higher average surface roughness (Sa) values were measured for pitted areas in comparison to unpitted areas of these metal components (p<0.05). Additionally, metallic embedded debris (cobalt-chromium likely due to pitting of the tibial and talar components or titanium likely from loss of their porous coatings) was identified in 18% of polyethylene inserts. The presence of hard 3. rd. body particles was also indicated by macroscopically visible sliding plane scratching, identified on 79% of talar components. This explant analysis study demonstrates that metal debris is released from the articulating surfaces and the coatings of various contemporary TARs, both fixed and mobile bearing. These findings suggest that metal debris release in TARs may be an under-recognised issue that should be considered in the study of painful or failed TAR moving forwards

Introduction. Fusion represents an effective treatment option in patients affected by end-stage arthritis. To minimise the risk of non-union following fusion, biological preparations such as bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) are commonly used intra-operatively. Mechanotransduction represents an emerging field of research whereby physical stimuli can be used to modulate the behaviour and differentiation of cells. Blast waves (a subtype of shock waves) are one such physical stimulus. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the osteogenic potential of BMAC can be enhanced using a blast wave, and thus improve its efficacy in fusion surgery. Methods. Human BMAC samples were obtained from three healthy patients and exposed to a single blast wave (peak overpressure= 50psi), before being placed in a suspension of mesenchymal stem cells, to represent the biological environment of the fusion site. Three test groups were used: MSC (the experimental control); MSC + BMAC; MSC + BMAC + blast wave. Calcium mineralisation assays were performed on the MSCs on Day 7 and 14 to assess for osteoblastic transformation. Results. Calcium mineralisation on Day 7 was significantly increased in the MSC + BMAC group compared to the MSC group (mean percentage change 42.12 vs 0.0, p=0.012). The MSC + BMAC + blast wave group also demonstrated significantly increased levels compared to the MSC + BMAC group (84.56 vs. 42.14, p = 0.039). The difference in calcium mineralisation between the MSC and MSC + BMAC + blast wave groups was strongly significant (0.00 vs. 84.56, p = 0.003). Conclusion. Exposure of BMAC to a single blast wave enhances its osteogenic potential. This represents a potential novel way to improve healing following fusion surgery and reduce the rates of non-union

Background. Recent large studies of third-generation minimally invasive hallux valgus surgery (MIS) have demonstrated significant improvement in clinical and radiological outcomes. It remains unknown whether these clinical and radiological outcomes are maintained in the medium to long-term. The aim of this study was to investigate the five-year clinical and radiological outcomes following third-generation MIS hallux valgus surgery. Methods. A retrospective observational single surgeon case series of consecutive patients undergoing primary isolated third-generation percutaneous Chevron and Akin osteotomies (PECA) for hallux valgus with a minimum 60 month clinical and radiographic follow up. Primary outcome was radiographic assessment of the hallux valgus angle (HVA) and intermetatarsal angle (IMA) pre-operatively, 6 months and ≥60 months following PECA. Secondary outcomes included the Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire, patient satisfaction, Euroqol-5D Visual Analogue Scale and Visual Analogue Scale for Pain. Results. Between 2012 and 2014, 126 consecutive feet underwent isolated third-generation PECA. The mean follow up was 68.8±7.3 (range 60–88) months. There was a significant improvement in radiographic deformity correction; IMA improved from 13.0±3.0 to 6.0±2.6, (p < 0.001) and HVA improved from 27.5±7.6 to 7.8±5.1. There was a statistically significant but not clinically relevant increase of 1.2±2.6° in the HVA between 6 month and ≥60 month radiographs. There was an increase in IMA of 0.1±1.6º between 6 month and ≥60 month radiographs which was not statistically or clinically significant. MOXFQ Index score at ≥follow up was 10.1±17.0. The radiographic recurrence rate was 2.6% at final follow up. The screw removal rate was 4.0%. Conclusion. Radiological deformity correction following third-generation PECA is maintained at a mean follow up of 68.8 months with a radiographic recurrence rate of 2.6%. Clinical PROMs and patient satisfaction levels are high and comparable to other third-generation studies with shorter duration of follow up

Background. Open or arthroscopic ankle fusion (AAF) is a successful operative treatment for end-stage ankle arthritis. Evidence suggest that AAFs have better outcomes. In addition to the operative technique other patient-factors can influence outcomes. The most significant complication of ankle fusion is a non-union. To better understand the risk factors related to this we undertook a retrospective investigation of primary AAFs. Methods. We reviewed all AAFs conducted at our institution over a 10-year period. Patients excluded if they had simultaneous fusion of neighbouring joints or were lost to follow-up. The primary outcome variable was radiographic union. Other operative complications were analysed as secondary outcomes. Two hundred and eighty-four eligible AAFs in 271 patients were performed over the study period. Results. The overall non-union rate was 7.7 %. Univariate logistic regression analysis found that smoking (6.2% non-union in non-smokers vs 24% in smokers) and prior triple fusion (5.5% non-union in the absence of prior triple fusion vs 70% in the presence of a prior triple fusion) were independent risk factors for non-union. Multivariate analysis showed that only prior triple fusion was predictive (OR 40.0 [9.4,170.3], p < 0.0001). Increasing age, obesity (BMI >30), surgical grade (trainee vs consultant), diabetes or the degree of weightbearing status post-operatively were not significant risk factors of non-union. The leading cause of reoperation was the removal of metal (18%). There were 5 superficial (1.8%) and 4 deep (1.4%) infections. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed a 75% ‘survivorship’ of the subtalar joint at 10 years following an arthroscopic ankle fusion. Conclusion. This is the largest case series of AAFs in the literature and the first to demonstrate that patients who had an AAF performed after a previous triple fusion have unacceptably high non-union rates and may benefit from other surgical options. This study data could also useful for patient consenting purposes

Introduction. Treatment pathways of 5. th. metatarsal fractures are commonly directed based on fracture classification, with Jones types for example, requiring closer observation and possibly more aggressive management. Primary objective. To investigate the reliability of assessment of subtypes of 5. th. metatarsal fractures by different observers. Methods. Patients were identified from our prospectively collected database. We included all patient referred to our virtual fracture clinic with a suspected or confirmed 5. th. metatarsal fracture. Plain AP radiographs were reviewed by two observers, who were initially trained on the 5. th. metatarsal classification identification. Zones were defined as Zone 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 2, 3, diaphyseal shaft (DS), distal metaphysis (DM) and head. An inter-observer reliability analysis using Cohen's Kappa coefficient was carried out, and degree of observer agreement described using Landis & Koch's description. All data was analysed using IBM SPSS v.27. Results. 878 patients were identified. The two observers had moderate agreement when identifying fractures in all zones, apart from metatarsal head fractures, which scored substantial agreement (K=.614). Zones 1.1 (K=.582), 2 (K=.536), 3 (K=.601) and DS (K=.544) all tended towards but did not achieve substantial agreement. Whilst DS fractures achieved moderate agreement, there was an apparent difficulty with distal DS, resulting in a lot of cross over with DM (DS 210 vs 109; DM 76 vs 161). Slight agreement with the next highest adjacent zone was found when injuries were thought to be in zones 1.2, 1.3 and 2 (K=0.17, 0.115 and 0.152 respectively). Conclusions. Reliability of sub-categorising 5. th. metatarsal fractures using standardised instructions conveys moderate to substantial agreement in most cases. If the region of the fracture is going to be used in an algorithm to guide a management plan and clinical follow up during a virtual clinic review, defining fractures of zones 1–3 needs careful consideration