Background. Research on midfoot injuries have primarily concentrated on the central column and the Lisfranc ligament without amassing evidence on lateral column injuries. Lateral column injuries have historically been treated with Kirschner wire fixation when encountered. Objective. Our aim in this study was to analyse lateral column injuries to the midfoot, their method of treatment and the radiological lateral column outcomes. Our nul hypothesis being that fixation is required to obtain and maintain lateral column alignment. Methods. Data was retrospectively collected from four centres on surgically treated midfoot fracture dislocations between 2011 and 2021. Radiographs were analysed using departmental PACS. All statistics was performed using SPSS 26. Results. A total of 235 cases were diagnosed as having a lateral column injury out of the 409 cases included. On cross tabulation, there was a significant association with having a central column injury (234/235, p<.001) and 70% of cases (166/235) also had an additional medial column injury. Of the 235 lateral column injuries, data was available regarding fixation radiographic alignment on 222 cases. There were 44 cases which underwent Kirschner wire fixation, 23 plate fixations and 3 screw fixations. Lateral column alignment loss was seen in 2.84% (4/141) of those which didn't undergo fixation, 13.64% (6/44) which underwent K wires, and 0 % in those fixed by screws or K wires. Conclusion. Lateral column injury occurs in over half of midfoot fractures in this study. It rarely occurs alone and is most commonly related to three column injuries. Nevertheless, following stabilisation of the central column, additional fixation of injuries to the lateral column do not appear beneficial. The use of a bridge plate to fix the central column appears protective and purely ligamentous injury was a higher risk than an injury that included the bone

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

Surgery to the midfoot (usually fusion) may be performed for trauma, arthritis, deformity or combinations. There are reports of good results, meaning primary fusion rates of 90+percent, 12 % serious complication rates and need for hardware removal 1n 25% of cases from specialist centres (Nemec et al AOFAS 2010). But even these good results mean 10% of patients needing lengthy revision surgery, and a third needing some additional intervention. Surgery to the midfoot, like all surgery has both consequences (which everyone experiences) and complications (which some peolple get). The consequences of midfoot surgery are time in hospital, long periods in cast (often non-weight bearing) and long rehabilitation periods leading to a “second best” result where pain is relieved, but mechanics and full function are not restored, and longterm stiffness and swelling are comon. Usually the patient still needs to restrict activities and wear orthotics or adaptive footwear. The commonest complication is probably a failure to inform patients of the consequences of surgery – inevitably leading to disappointment with result and outcome. Common complications include:. Wound, nerve and vascular problems. Delayed union, malunion and non-union. General complications such as DVT and embolism. All these complications are more common in patients who smoke, are diabetic or have a BMI over 30. By showing examples of problems seen in the last 15 years of tertiary referral (and the authors own cases), a system to minimise complications, and to address them when they occur, will be presented, based on:. Good preparation and timely accurate information. Planning surgery (approach, execution and post operative management). Rehailitation and after surgery care. These can usually only be brought together by a surgeon performing this surgery on a regular basis, and with the support of an equally experienced multi-disciplinary team

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

Background. Corrective fusion of a deformed / unstable Charcot neuroarthropathy (CN)of the midfoot and hindfoot is performed with the aim to prevent ulcers and maintain patient mobility. Methods. Between October 2007 and July 2018, 103 CN mid and hind foot corrections in 95 patients were performed. There were 34 hind-foot, 38 mid-foot and 31 combined hind and mid-foot surgeries. 83 feet had single stage corrections, whereas 20 required a staged operation. Results. Ninety-five patients were prospectively followed up. The mean patient age in our study was 57 years (21 – 85). Twenty-seven patients had type1 diabetes, 64 patients had type 2 and 4 patients had a neuropathy secondary to other conditions. Forty patients (42%) were offered a below knee amputation prior to attending our foot clinic. At a mean follow up of 56 months (12 – 140) we achieved 100% limb salvage with a 75% full bone fusion rate. There were 17 mortalities within our cohort at a mean period of 3 years. Ninety-seven percent (n=92) patients were mobilizing post-operatively in orthotic footwear. Fifty-two feet had pre-operative ulcers. Post-operatively 17 feet (16 patients) had persistent ulceration. Eight patients had ulcer resolution following further surgery and alteration of footwear, one patient has been listed for a below knee amputation for unstable non-union, whilst the remaining 7 patients have stable ulcers which are managed with dressings. Of the 26 feet (25 patients) with non-unions, 6 patients had revision fixation procedures whilst 8 patients required minor surgical procedures. The remaining 11 patients are stable non-unions who are asymptomatic and weight bearing. Other complications included a deep infection rate of 8% (n=7). Conclusion. We demonstrated a 100% limb salvage rate and an 83% success rate in ulcer resolution. We recommend this be done with the support of the multi-disciplinary team

Aims. Fractures of the navicular can occur in isolation but, owing to the intimate anatomical and biomechanical relationships, are often associated with other injuries to the neighbouring bones and joints in the foot. As a result, they can lead to long-term morbidity and poor function. Our aim in this study was to identify patterns of injury in a new classification system of traumatic fractures of the navicular, with consideration being given to the commonly associated injuries to the midfoot. Patients and Methods. We undertook a retrospective review of 285 consecutive patients presenting over an eight- year period with a fracture of the navicular. Five common patterns of injury were identified and classified according to the radiological features. Type 1 fractures are dorsal avulsion injuries related to the capsule of the talonavicular joint. Type 2 fractures are isolated avulsion injuries to the tuberosity of the navicular. Type 3 fractures are a variant of tarsometatarsal fracture/dislocations creating instability of the medial ray. Type 4 fractures involve the body of the navicular with no associated injury to the lateral column and type 5 fractures occur in conjunction with disruption of the midtarsal joint with crushing of the medial or lateral, or both, columns of the foot. Results. In order to test the reliability and reproducibility of this new classification, a cohort of 30 patients with a fracture of the navicular were classified by six independent assessors at two separate times, six months apart. Interobserver reliability and intraobserver reproducibility both had substantial agreement, with kappa values of 0.80 and 0.72, respectively. Conclusion. We propose a logical, all-inclusive, and mutually exclusive classification system for fractures of the navicular that gives associated injuries involving the lateral column due consideration. We have shown that this system is reliable and reproducible and have described the rationale for the subsequent treatment of each type. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2018;100-B:176–82

Charcot neuro-osteoarthropathy (CN) of the midfoot presents a major reconstructive challenge for the foot and ankle surgeon. The Synthes 6 mm Midfoot Fusion Bolt is both designed and recommended for patients who have a deformity of the medial column of the foot due to CN. We present the results from the first nine patients (ten feet) on which we attempted to perform fusion of the medial column using this bolt. Six feet had concurrent hindfoot fusion using a retrograde nail. Satisfactory correction of deformity of the medial column was achieved in all patients. The mean correction of calcaneal pitch was from 6° (-15° to +18°) pre-operatively to 16° (7° to 23°) post-operatively; the mean Meary angle from 26° (3° to 46°) to 1° (1° to 2°); and the mean talometatarsal angle on dorsoplantar radiographs from 27° (1° to 48°) to 1° (1° to 3°). . However, in all but two feet, at least one joint failed to fuse. The bolt migrated in six feet, all of which showed progressive radiographic osteolysis, which was considered to indicate loosening. Four of these feet have undergone a revision procedure, with good radiological evidence of fusion. The medial column bolt provided satisfactory correction of the deformity but failed to provide adequate fixation for fusion in CN deformities in the foot. In its present form, we cannot recommend the routine use of this bolt. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015; 97-B:809–13

Introduction. We describe a novel single incision approach and its safety in the largest reported series of Lisfranc injuries to date. Via separate subcutaneous windows it is possible to access the medial three rays of the foot for bridge plating, without the concern of narrow skin bridges between multiple incisions. Methods. A retrospective review identified all 150 patients who underwent a Lisfranc ORIF via the modified dorsal approach at the Royal Melbourne Hospital between January 2011 and June 2016. All patients were operated by a single surgeon. Removal of metalwork (ROM) was routinely undertaken at six months post-operatively via the same incision. Medical recored were reviewed to record patient demographics, mechanism of injury and surgical details. Outpatient notes were reviewed to identify wound-related complications including; delayed wound healing, superficial infection, wound dehiscence, deep infection, complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), neuroma and impaired sensation. Median follow-up was 1012 days (range 188–2141). Results. Median age was 37 years (19–78). 110 (73%) patients were male. Mechanism of injury was: motor vehicle accident (37%), motor bike accident (19%) and fall (18%). 24 (16%) injuries were open, 5 of which required soft tissue reconstruction at the primary surgery. A total of 34 wound related complications occurred (22%); superficial infection (14), delayed wound healing (7), wound dehiscence (5), CRPS (4), impaired sensation (3), neuroma (1). Re-operation was necessary in the 5 patients who experienced wound dehiscence; 4 requiring split skin grafts and 1 requiring a free flap. Crush injuries were 10 times more likely to have wound complications than those sustained in motor vehicle accidents. Patients undergoing ROM were more likely to have wound complications than those who did not. Conclusion. The modified dorsal approach using subcutaneous windows to access the midfoot joints offers a viable alternative to existing approaches

Introduction:

The purpose of this study was to elucidate the specific radiographic effects that the Cotton osteotomy confers when used in combination with other reconstructive procedures in the management of the flexible flat foot deformity.

Background. Neglected clubfoot in this series is defined as untreated equino-cavo-adducto-varus in older children, or adults. Relapsed clubfoot is the residual deformity that remains after single or multiple surgical interventions. Severe neglected clubfoot rarely exists today in developed countries, except in some emigrants from low- and middle-income countries. Acute surgical management with corrective mid-foot osteotomy and elongation of the Achilles tendon has excellent functional outcome. Objective. To assess the functional outcome of acute correction of neglected Talipes-quino-varus deformity in adults. Methods. This is cross sectional, hospital–based study that took place in Khartoum, Sudan. Forty patients were included in this study. Midfoot osteotomy and elongation of the Achilles tendon were performed to all patients. Data was collected using a questionnaire and the functional outcome has been assessed using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society Score (AOFAS). This score was measured before surgery and one years after surgery. Results. The mean age was 19.9±4.7 years. Males were 25 (62.5%) and females were 15 (37.5%). The mean preoperative AOFAS score was 37.7±7.1 (poor). This score improved to 80.7±13.7 (good to excellent), two years after surgery. However, this indicates significant change in the functional outcome after the operation (P value < 0.05). Excellent post-operative functional outcome was found among patients aged 18 – 23 years 18 (50%) P. value: 0.021. The majority of patients 36(90%) were fully satisfied with the operation, 2(5%) partially satisfied and 2(5%) were unsatisfied. Conclusion. Acute correction of neglected and relapsed TEV with elongation of the Achilles tendon and single midfoot osteotomy has excellent functional outcome as assessed by AOFAS Score. The satisfaction with this procedure is impressive. The younger age population showed better outcomes with this procedure

Introduction. Charcot neuroarthropathy (CN) of foot and ankle presents significant challenges to the orthopaedic foot and ankle surgeon. Current treatment focuses on conservative management during the acute CN phase with offloading followed by deformity correction during the chronic phase. However, the deformity can progress in some feet despite optimal offloading resulting ulceration, infection, and limb loss. Our aim was to assess outcomes of primary surgical management with early reconstruction. Methods. Between December 2011 and December 2019, 25 patients underwent operative intervention at our specialist diabetic foot unit for CN with progressive deformity and or instability despite advanced offloading. All had peripheral neuropathy, and the majority due to diabetes. Twenty-six feet were operated on in total - 14 during Eichenholtz stage 1 and 12 during stage 2. Fourteen of these were performed as single stage procedures, whereas 12 as two-stage reconstructions. These included isolated hindfoot reconstructions in seven, midfoot in four and combined in 14 feet. Mean age at the time of operation was 54. Preoperative ulceration was evident in 14 patients. Results. Mean follow up was 45 months (Range 12–98). There was 100% limb salvage. One-year ambulation outcomes demonstrate FWB in bespoke footwear for 17 patients and in an ankle foot orthosis (AFO), Charcot restraint orthopaedic walker (CROW) or bivalve cast for seven. All preoperative ulceration had healed. Union was achieved in 18/21 hindfoot reconstructions and 7/18 midfoot reconstructions. There were nine episodes of return to theatre, of which five were within the first 12 months. There was one episode of new ulceration. Conclusion. Surgical management of acute CN (Eichenholtz one and two) of the foot provides functional limb salvage. In particular, hindfoot reconstruction shows good rates of bony union. It should be considered in ‘foot at risk’ presentations of acute CN foot

Introduction. Surgical reconstruction of deformed Charcot feet carries high risk of non-union, 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 analysed patients who underwent hindfoot Charcot reconstruction with an intramedullary nail between 2007 and 2019 in our unit. Patient demographics, co-morbidities, weightbearing status and post-operative complications were noted. Metalwork breakage, non-union, 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 50±26 months. Seventy-two percent were fully weightbearing at 1 year post-operatively. The overall union rate was 83%. Age, BMI, HbA1c and peripheral vascular disease did not affect union. The ratio of nail diameter and isthmus was greater in the united compared to the non-united group (0.90±0.06 and 0.86±0.09, respectively; p = 0.03). Supplemental compression devices were used for 33% of those in the united compared to 8% in the non-united group (p = 0.04). All patients in the non-union group did not have a miss-a-nail screw. Metalwork failure was seen in 13 patients(19%). There was a significantly greater distal screw metalwork failure in those with supplementary bridging of tibia to midfoot (23% vs. 3%; p = 0.001). An intact medial malleolus was found more frequently in those with intact metalwork (77% vs. 54%, respectively; p = 0.02) and those with union (76% vs. 50%; p = 0.02). Broken metalwork occurred more frequently in patients with non-unions (69% vs. 8%; p < 0.001) and deformity recurrence (69% vs. 9%; p < 0.001). Conclusion. Satisfactory clinical and radiographic outcomes occur in over 80% of patients. Union after hindfoot reconstruction occurs more frequently with an isthmic fit of the intramedullary nail, supplementary compression and miss-a-nail screws. An intact medial malleolus is protective against non-union and metalwork failure. Broken metalwork is linked to deformity recurrence and non-union

Aims. In our unit, we adopt a two-stage surgical reconstruction approach using internal fixation for the management of infected Charcot foot deformity. We evaluate our experience with this functional limb salvage method. Methods. We conducted a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data of all patients with infected Charcot foot deformity who underwent two-stage reconstruction with internal fixation between July 2011 and November 2019, with a minimum of 12 months’ follow-up. Results. We identified 23 feet in 22 patients with a mean age of 56.7 years (33 to 70). The mean postoperative follow-up period was 44.7 months (14 to 99). Limb salvage was achieved in all patients. At one-year follow-up, all ulcers have healed and independent full weightbearing mobilization was achieved in all but one patient. Seven patients developed new mechanical skin breakdown; all went on to heal following further interventions. Fusion of the hindfoot was achieved in 15 of 18 feet (83.3%). Midfoot fusion was achieved in nine of 15 patients (60%) and six had stable and painless fibrous nonunion. Hardware failure occurred in five feet, all with broken dorsomedial locking plate. Six patients required further surgery, two underwent revision surgery for infected nonunion, two for removal of metalwork and exostectomy, and two for dynamization of the hindfoot nail. Conclusion. Two-stage reconstruction of the infected and deformed Charcot foot using internal fixation and following the principle of ‘long-segment, rigid and durable internal fixation, with optimal bone opposition and local antibiotic elusion’ is a good form of treatment provided a multidisciplinary care plan is delivered. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(10):1611–1618

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. Methods. We gained institutional and Local Ethics Committee approval for a prospective cohort study of patients with clinically infected diabetic foot wounds. They all had deep tissue samples taken in clinic processed with conventional culture and real-time PCR TaqMan array. Results. 50 samples were taken from 39 patients between October 2020 and March 2022. 84% of patient were male, 88% had type 2 diabetes. The ulcers were of variable chronicity prior to sampling (range 1–113 weeks) and mean HbA1c was 67.2mmol/mol. Ulcers were on the heel (3), midfoot (6) and forefoot (41). Minimum follow up was 3 months. 6 ulcers healed, 24 patients were admitted due to foot disease, there were 2 major amputations and 4 deaths. TaqMan array results were available a mean of 4.3 days earlier than culture results. 9 patients had negative conventional cultures and 8 were negative onarray testing. 17 patients had the same organisms detected on culture and array. 16 of these 17 had additional organisms detected by array. The most frequent organisms detected on array that were not detected by culture were Staphylococcus spp., Enterobacter, Pseudomonas and fungi. Conclusion. TaqMan array shows promise in detecting infecting organisms from diabetic foot wounds and providing earlier results than standard culture, which may enable appropriate and timely antibiotic therapy

Background. Anatomical reduction of unstable Lisfranc injuries is crucial. Evidence as to the best methods of surgical stabilization remains sparse, with small patient numbers a particular issue. Dorsal bridge plating offers rigid stability and joint preservation. The primary aim of this study was to assess the medium-term functional outcomes for patients treated with this technique at our centre. Additionally, we review for risk factors that influence outcomes. Methods. 85 patients who underwent open reduction and dorsal bridge plate fixation of unstable Lisfranc injuries between January 2014 and January 2019 were identified. Metalwork was not routinely removed. A retrospective review of case notes was conducted. The Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire summary index (MOXFQ-Index) was the primary outcome measure, collected at final follow-up, with a minimum follow-up of 24 months. The American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) midfoot scale, complications, and all-cause re-operation rates were secondary outcome measures. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to identify risk factors associated with poorer outcomes. Results. Mean follow-up 40.8 months (24–72). Mean MOXFQ-Index 27.0 (SD 7.1). Mean AOFAS score 72.6 (SD 11.6). 48/85 patients had injury patterns that included an intra-articular fracture and this was associated with poorer outcomes, with worse MOXFQ and AOFAS scores (both p < 0.001). 18 patients (21%) required the removal of metalwork for either prominence or stiffness. Female patients were more likely to require metalwork removal (OR 3.89, 95% CI 1.27 to 12.0, p = 0.02). Eight patients (9%) required secondary arthrodesis. Conclusions. This is the largest series of Lisfranc injuries treated with dorsal bridge plate fixation reported to date and the only to routinely retain metalwork. The technique is safe and effective. The presence of an intraarticular fracture is a poor prognostic indicator. Metalwork removal is more likely to be needed in female patients but routine removal may not be essential

Background. Lisfranc fracture dislocations are uncommon injuries, which frequently require surgical intervention. Currently, there is varying evidence on the diagnostic utility of plain radiographs (XR) and CT in identifying Lisfranc injuries and concomitant fractures. Our aim was to identify the utility of XR as compared to CT, with the nul hypothesis that there was no difference in fracture identification. Methods. A retrospective assessment of patients who had sustained a Lisfranc injury between 2013 and 2022 across two trauma centres within the United Kingdom who underwent surgery. Pre-operative XR and CT images were reviewed independently by 2 reviewers to identify the presence of associated fractures. Results. A total of 175 patients were included. Our assessment identified that XR images significantly under-diagnosed all metatarsal and midfoot fractures. The largest discrepancies between XR and CT in their rates of detection were in fractures of the cuboid (5.7% vs 28%, p<0.001), medial cuneiform (20% vs 51%, p=0.008), lateral cuneiform (4% vs 36%, p=0.113), second metatarsal (57% vs 82%, p<0.001), third metatarsal (37% vs 61%, p<0.001) and fourth metatarsal (26% vs 43%, p<0.001). As compared to CT, the sensitivity of XR was low. The lowest sensitivity for identification however was lateral foot injuries, specifically fractures of the lateral cuneiform (sensitivity 7.94%, specificity 97.3%), cuboid (sensitivity 18.37%, specificity 99.21%), fourth (sensitivity 46.7%, specificity 89.80%) and fifth metatarsal (sensitivity 45.00%, specificity 96.10%). Conclusion. From our analysis, we can determine that XR significantly under-diagnoses associated injuries in patient sustaining an unstable Lisfranc injury, with lateral foot injuries being the worst identified. We advised the use of CT imaging in all cases for appropriate surgical planning

We studied 11 patients with checkrein deformities of the hallux who underwent surgical treatment. Six had lengthening of the flexor hallucis longus tendon by Z-plasty in the midfoot, and five underwent release of adhesions and lengthening of the tendon by Z-plasty at the musculotendinous junction at the fracture site. All six patients who underwent Z-plasty at the midfoot showed complete correction of the deformity without recurrence. Of the five who had release of adhesions and Z-plasty of the tendon at the fracture site, two showed partial and one showed complete recurrence

Aims. The aim of this study was to describe the technique of distraction osteogenesis followed by arthrodesis using internal fixation to manage complex conditions of the ankle, and to present the results of this technique. Patients and Methods. Between 2008 and 2014, distraction osteogenesis followed by arthrodesis using internal fixation was performed in 12 patients with complex conditions of the ankle due to trauma or infection. There were eight men and four women: their mean age was 35 years (23 to 51) at the time of surgery. Bone healing and functional recovery were evaluated according to the criteria described by Paley. Function was assessed using the ankle-hindfoot scale of the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS). Results. A solid fusion of the ankle and eradication of infection was achieved in all patients. A mean lengthening of 6.1 cm (2.5 to 14) was achieved at a mean follow-up of 25.2 months (14 to 37). The mean external fixation index (EFI) was 42 days/cm (33.3 to 58). The function was judged to be excellent in six patients and good in six patients. Bone results were graded as excellent in ten patients and good in two patients. The mean AOFAS score was 37.3 (5 to 77) preoperatively and 75.3 (61 to 82) at the final follow-up. Minor complications, which were treated conservatively, included pain, pin-tract infection, loosening of wires, and midfoot stiffness. Major complications, which were treated surgically included grade V pin-tract infection with inflammation and osteolysis, poor consolidation of the regenerate bone, and soft-tissue invagination. The reoperations required to treat the major complications included the exchange of pins and wires, bone grafting and invagination split surgery. Conclusion. The technique of distraction osteogenesis followed by arthrodesis using internal fixation is an effective form of treatment for the management of complex conditions of the ankle. It offers a high rate of union, an opportunity to remove the frame early, and a reduced EFI without infection or wound dehiscence. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2018;100-B:755–60

Lisfranc fracture dislocations of the midfoot are uncommon but serious injuries, associated with posttraumatic arthrosis, progressive deformity, and persistent pain. Management of the acute injury aims to restore anatomic tarsometatarsal alignment in order to minimise these complications. Reduction and stabilisation can be performed using image-guided percutaneous reduction and screw stabilisation (aiming to minimise the risk of wound infection) or through open plating techniques (in order to visualise anatomic reduction, and to avoid chondral damage from transarticular screws). This retrospective study compares percutaneous and open treatment in terms of radiographic reduction and incidence of early complications. Case records and postoperative radiographs of all patients undergoing reduction and stabilisation of unstable tarsometatarsal joint injuries between 2011 and 2014 in our institution were reviewed. Dorsoplantar, oblique and lateral radiographs were assessed for accuracy of reduction, with malreduction being defined as greater than 2mm tarsometatarsal malalignment in any view. The primary outcome measure was postoperative radiographic alignment. Secondary outcome measures included the incidence of infection and other intra- or early postoperative complications. During the study period, 32 unstable midfoot injuries were treated, of which 19 underwent percutaneous reduction and screw stabilisation and 13 underwent open reduction and internal fixation. Of the percutaneous group, no wound infections were reported, and there were four (21.1%) malreduced injuries. Of the open group, two infections (15.4%) were observed, and no cases of malreduction. In conclusion, our study shows a strong trend towards increased risk of malreduction when percutaneous techniques are used to treat midfoot injuries, and an increased risk of infection when open surgery is used. Whilst conclusions are limited by the retrospective data collection, this study demonstrates the relative risks to consider when selecting a surgical approach

Introduction. Comminuted mid-foot fractures are uncommon. Maintenance of the length and alignment of the medial column, with restoration of articular surface congruity, is associated with improved outcomes. Conventional surgery has utilised open or closed reduction with K-wire fixation, percutaneous techniques, ORIF, external fixation or a combination of these methods. In 2003 temporary bridge plating of the medial column was described to reconstruct and stabilise the medial column. The added advantage of locking plates is the use of angle-stable fixation. We present our experience with temporary locking plates in complex mid-foot fractures. Materials and methods. Prospective audit database of 12 patients over a 6 year period (2003-2009). 5 males 7 females mean age 41.9. Mechanism of injury: 11 high-energy injuries (6 falls from height, 5 RTCs), 1 low energy injury. Fracture type: All involved the medial column - 12 fracture dislocations of the medial column. 4 concomitant injuries to the lateral column. All underwent ORIF, realignment, and stabilisation with locking plates across the mid-foot. Results. Median length of time to plate removal: 3 months (range 2-6). Prior to removal of the metalwork, there was no loss of reduction, no infections, and no implant breakage. 10 out of 12 required plate removal at 3 months. Long-term follow-up (Mean 12.4 months, range 4-32): 11 have minimal symptoms of swelling or discomfort from the midfoot which does not restrict their ADLs, whilst 1 patient developed post-traumatic arthritis with medial arch collapse. No secondary procedures following plate removal. The two patients with the plate in-situ were asymptomatic with regards to the metalwork at final follow-up. Conclusion. Locking plates provide adequate stabilisation following open reduction and internal fixation of complex and unstable midfoot fracture dislocations. However, the majority will require removal of the metalwork. Following removal of the metalwork, satisfactory length and alignment, and stability of the midfoot, is maintained