Aims. There is little information about how to manage patients with a recurvatum deformity of the distal tibia and osteoarthritis (OA) of the ankle. The aim of this study was to evaluate the functional and radiological outcome of addressing this deformity using a flexion osteotomy and to assess the progression of OA after this procedure. Patients and Methods. A total of 39 patients (12 women, 27 men; mean age 47 years (28 to 72)) with a distal tibial recurvatum deformity were treated with a flexion osteotomy, between 2010 and 2015. Nine patients (23%) subsequently required conversion to either a total ankle arthroplasty (seven) or an arthrodesis (two) after a mean of 21 months (9 to 36). A total of 30 patients (77%), with a mean follow-up of 30 months (24 to 76), remained for further evaluation. Functional outcome, sagittal ankle joint OA using a modified Kellgren and Lawrence Score, tibial lateral surface (TLS) angle, and talar offset ratio (TOR) were evaluated on pre- and postoperative weight-bearing radiographs. Results. Postoperatively, the mean score for pain, using a visual analogue scale, decreased significantly from 4.3 to 2.5 points and the mean American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot score improved significantly from 59 to 75 points (both p < 0.001). The mean TLS angle increased significantly by 6.6°; the mean TOR decreased significantly by 0.24 (p < 0.001). Radiological evaluation showed an improvement or no progression of sagittal ankle joint OA in 32 ankles (82%), while seven ankles (18%) showed further progression. Conclusion. A flexion osteotomy effectively improved the congruency of the ankle joint. In 30 patients (77%), the joint could be saved, whereas in nine patients (23%), the treatment delayed a joint-sacrificing procedure. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2019;101-B:682–690

Aims. The aim of this study was to report a single surgeon series of consecutive patients with moderate hallux valgus managed with a percutaneous extra-articular reverse-L chevron (PERC) osteotomy. . Patients and Methods. A total of 38 patients underwent 45 procedures. There were 35 women and three men. The mean age of the patients was 48 years (17 to 69). An additional percutaneous Akin osteotomy was performed in 37 feet and percutaneous lateral capsular release was performed in 22 feet. Clinical and radiological assessments included the type of forefoot, range of movement, the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle (AOFAS) score, a subjective rating and radiological parameters. . The mean follow-up was 59.1 months (45.9 to 75.2). No patients were lost to follow-up. Results. The mean AOFAS score increased from 62.5 (30 to 80) pre-operatively to 97.1 (75 to 100) post-operatively. A total of 37 patients (97%) were satisfied. At the last follow up there was a statistically significant decrease in the hallux valgus angle, the intermetatarsal angle and the proximal articular set angle. The range of movement of the first metatarsophalangeal joint improved significantly.. There was more improvement in the range of movement in patients who had fixation of the osteotomy of the proximal phalanx. Conclusion. Preliminary results of this percutaneous approach are promising. This technique is reliable and reproducible. Its main asset is that it maintains an excellent range of movement. Take home message: The PERC osteotomy procedure is an effective approach for surgical management of moderate hallux valgus which combines the benefits of percutaneous surgery with the versatility of the chevron osteotomy whilst maintaining excellent first MTPJ range of motion. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2016;98-B:365–73

Aims. The mainstay of surgical correction of hallux valgus is first metatarsal osteotomy, either proximally or distally. We present a technique of combining a distal chevron osteotomy with a proximal opening wedge osteotomy, for the correction of moderate to severe hallux valgus. Patients and Methods. We reviewed 45 patients (49 feet) who had undergone double osteotomy. Outcome was assessed using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) and the Short Form (SF) -36 Health Survey scores. Radiological measurements were undertaken to assess the correction. The mean age of the patients was 60.8 years (44.2 to 75.3). The mean follow-up was 35.4 months (24 to 51). Results. The mean AOFAS score improved from 54.7 to 92.3 (p < 0.001) and the mean SF-36 score from 59 to 86 (p < 0.001). The mean hallux valgus and intermetatarsal angles were improved from 41.6. o. to 12.8. o. (p < 0.001) and from 22.1. o. to 7.1. o. , respectively (p < 0.001). The mean distal metatarsal articular angle improved from 23. o. to 9.7. o. The mean sesamoid position, as described by Hardy and Clapham, improved from 6.8 to 3.5. The mean length of the first metatarsal was unchanged. The overall rate of complications was 4.1% (two patients). Conclusion. These results suggest that a double osteotomy of the first metatarsal is a reliable, safe technique which, when compared with other metatarsal osteotomies, provides strong angular correction and excellent outcomes with a low rate of complications. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2016;98-B:1202–7

We reviewed the outcome of distal chevron metatarsal osteotomy without tendon transfer in 19 consecutive patients (19 feet) with a hallux varus deformity following surgery for hallux valgus. All patients underwent distal chevron metatarsal osteotomy with medial displacement and a medial closing wedge osteotomy along with a medial capsular release. The mean hallux valgus angle improved from −11.6° pre-operatively to 4.7° postoperatively, the mean first-second intermetatarsal angle improved from −0.3° to 3.3° and the distal metatarsal articular angle from 9.5° to 2.3° and the first metatarsophalangeal joints became congruent post-operatively in all 19 feet. The mean relative length ratio of the metatarsus decreased from 1.01 to 0.99 and the mean American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society score improved from 77 to 95 points. In two patients the hallux varus recurred. One was symptom-free but the other remained symptomatic after a repeat distal chevron osteotomy. There were no other complications. We consider that distal chevron metatarsal osteotomy with a medial wedge osteotomy and medial capsular release is a useful procedure for the correction of hallux varus after surgery for hallux valgus

The purpose of this study was to compare the results of proximal and distal chevron osteotomy in patients with moderate hallux valgus. We retrospectively reviewed 34 proximal chevron osteotomies without lateral release (PCO group) and 33 distal chevron osteotomies (DCO group) performed sequentially by a single surgeon. There were no differences between the groups with regard to age, length of follow-up, demographic or radiological parameters. The clinical results were assessed using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scoring system and the radiological results were compared between the groups. At a mean follow-up of 14.6 months (14 to 32) there were no significant differences in the mean AOFAS scores between the DCO and PCO groups (93.9 (82 to 100) and 91.8 (77 to 100), respectively; p = 0.176). The mean hallux valgus angle, intermetatarsal angle and sesamoid position were the same in both groups. The metatarsal declination angle decreased significantly in the PCO group (p = 0.005) and the mean shortening of the first metatarsal was significantly greater in the DCO group (p < 0.001). We conclude that the clinical and radiological outcome after a DCO is comparable with that after a PCO; longer follow-up would be needed to assess the risk of avascular necrosis. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:649–56

Moderate to severe hallux valgus is conventionally treated by proximal metatarsal osteotomy. Several recent studies have shown that the indications for distal metatarsal osteotomy with a distal soft-tissue procedure could be extended to include moderate to severe hallux valgus. The purpose of this prospective randomised controlled trial was to compare the outcome of proximal and distal Chevron osteotomy in patients undergoing simultaneous bilateral correction of moderate to severe hallux valgus. The original study cohort consisted of 50 female patients (100 feet). Of these, four (8 feet) were excluded for lack of adequate follow-up, leaving 46 female patients (92 feet) in the study. The mean age of the patients was 53.8 years (30.1 to 62.1) and the mean duration of follow-up 40.2 months (24.1 to 80.5). After randomisation, patients underwent a proximal Chevron osteotomy on one foot and a distal Chevron osteotomy on the other. At follow-up, the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hallux metatarsophalangeal interphalangeal (MTP-IP) score, patient satisfaction, post-operative complications, hallux valgus angle, first-second intermetatarsal angle, and tibial sesamoid position were similar in each group. Both procedures gave similar good clinical and radiological outcomes. This study suggests that distal Chevron osteotomy with a distal soft-tissue procedure is as effective and reliable a means of correcting moderate to severe hallux valgus as proximal Chevron osteotomy with a distal soft-tissue procedure. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:202–7

Metatarsalgia is a recognised complication following iatrogenic shortening of the first metatarsal in the management of hallux valgus. The traditional surgical treatment is by shortening osteotomies of the lesser metatarsals. We describe the results of lengthening of iatrogenic first brachymetatarsia in 16 females. A Scarf-type osteotomy was used in the first four cases and a step-cut of equal thicknesses along the axis of the first metatarsal was performed in the others. The mean follow-up was 21 months (19 to 26). Relief of metatarsalgia was obtained in the six patients in whom 10 mm of lengthening had been achieved, compared to only 50% relief in those where less than 8 mm of lengthening had been gained. One-stage step-cut lengthening osteotomy of the first metatarsal may be preferable to shortening osteotomies of the lesser metatarsals in the treatment of metatarsalgia following surgical shortening of the first metatarsal

We reviewed 91 patients (103 feet) who underwent a Ludloff osteotomy combined with additional procedures. According to the combined procedures performed, patients were divided into Group I (31 feet; first web space release), Group II (35 feet; Akin osteotomy and trans-articular release), or Group III (37 feet; Akin osteotomy, supplementary axial Kirschner (K-) wire fixation, and trans-articular release). Each group was then further subdivided into severe and moderate deformities. The mean hallux valgus angle correction of Group II was significantly greater than that of Group I (p = 0.001). The mean intermetatarsal angle correction of Group III was significantly greater than that of Group II (p < 0.001). In severe deformities, post-operative incongruity of the first metatarsophalangeal joint was least common in Group I (p = 0.026). Akin osteotomy significantly increased correction of the hallux valgus angle, while a supplementary K-wire significantly reduced the later loss of intermetatarsal angle correction. First web space release can be recommended for severe deformity. Additionally, K-wire fixation (odds ratio (OR) 5.05 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.21 to 24.39); p = 0.032) and the pre-operative hallux valgus angle (OR 2.20 (95% CI 1.11 to 4.73); p = 0.001) were shown to be factors affecting recurrence of hallux valgus after Ludloff osteotomy. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:803–8

Severe hallux valgus deformity is conventionally treated with proximal metatarsal osteotomy. Distal metatarsal osteotomy with an associated soft-tissue procedure can also be used in moderate to severe deformity. We compared the clinical and radiological outcomes of proximal and distal chevron osteotomy in severe hallux valgus deformity with a soft-tissue release in both. A total of 110 consecutive female patients (110 feet) were included in a prospective randomised controlled study. A total of 56 patients underwent a proximal procedure and 54 a distal operation. The mean follow-up was 39 months (24 to 54) in the proximal group and 38 months (24 to 52) in the distal group. At follow-up the hallux valgus angle, intermetatarsal angle, distal metatarsal articular angle, tibial sesamoid position, American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hallux metatarsophalangeal-interphalangeal score, patient satisfaction level, and complications were similar in each group. Both methods showed significant post-operative improvement and high levels of patient satisfaction. Our results suggest that the distal chevron osteotomy with an associated distal soft-tissue procedure provides a satisfactory method for correcting severe hallux valgus deformity. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:510–16

We performed distal chevron osteotomy of the second, third, or fourth metatarsal for painful plantar callosities in 19 non-rheumatoid patients (16 women, 3 men; 21 feet); their mean age was 59 years (32 to 85). The mean follow-up was four years (2 to 7). The overall results were good in 16 feet, fair in two, and poor in three, with four patients still having painful plantar callosities. There was union in all feet, but transfer metatarsalgia developed in three and three required an orthosis. Distal chevron osteotomy for intractable plantar callosities was successful both clinically and radiologically in most patients

We studied prospectively 30 patients who had a Mitchell’s osteotomy secured by either a suture followed by immobilisation in a plaster boot for six weeks, or by a cortical screw with early mobilisation. The mean time for return to social activities after fixation by a screw was 2.9 weeks and to work 4.9 weeks, which was significantly earlier than those who had stabilisation by a suture (5.7 and 8.7 weeks, respectively; p < 0.001). Use of a screw also produced a higher degree of patient satisfaction at six weeks, and an earlier return to wearing normal footwear. The improvement in forefoot scores was significantly greater after fixation by a screw at six weeks (p = 0.036) and three months (p = 0.024). At one year, two screws had been removed because of pain at the site of the screw head. Internal fixation of Mitchell’s osteotomy by a screw allows the safe early mobilisation of patients and reduces the time required for convalescence

Aims. The purpose of this study was to analyse the biomechanics of walking, through the ground reaction forces (GRF) measured, after first metatarsal osteotomy or metatarsophalangeal joint (MTP) arthrodesis. Patients and Methods. A total of 19 patients underwent a Scarf osteotomy (50.3 years, standard deviation (. sd. ) 12.3) and 18 underwent an arthrodesis (56.2 years,. sd. 6.5). Clinical and radiographical data as well as the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scores were determined. GRF were measured using an instrumented treadmill. A two-way model of analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to determine the effects of surgery on biomechanical parameters of walking, particularly propulsion. Results. Epidemiological, radiographical and clinical data were comparable in the two groups and better restoration of propulsive function was found after osteotomy as shown by ANOVA (two way: surgery × foot) with a surgery effect on vertical forces (p < 0.01) and a foot effect on anteroposterior impulse (p = 0.01). Conclusion. Patients who underwent Scarf osteotomy had a gait pattern similar to that of their non-operated foot, whereas those who underwent arthrodesis of the first (metatarsophalangeal) MTP joint did not totally recover the propulsive forces of the forefoot. Take home message: The main findings of this study were that after surgical correction for hallux valgus, patients who underwent scarf osteotomy had a gait pattern similar to that of their non-operated foot in terms of forefoot propulsive forces (Fz3, Iy2), whereas those who underwent arthrodesis of the first MTP joint had not. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2016;98-B:641–6

Aims

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

Aims. To assess the effect of age on clinical outcome and revision rates in patients who underwent total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) for end-stage ankle osteoarthritis (OA). Methods. A consecutive series of 811 ankles (789 patients) that underwent TAA between May 2003 and December 2013 were enrolled. The influence of age on clinical outcome, including the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot score, and pain according to the visual analogue scale (VAS) was assessed. In addition, the risk for revision surgery that includes soft tissue procedures, periarticular arthrodeses/osteotomies, ankle joint debridement, and/or inlay exchange (defined as minor revision), as well as the risk for revision surgery necessitating the exchange of any of the metallic components or removal of implant followed by ankle/hindfoot fusion (defined as major revision) was calculated. Results. A significant improvement in the AOFAS hindfoot score and pain relief between the preoperative assessment and the last follow-up was evident. Age had a positive effect on pain relief. The risk for a minor or major revision was 28.7 % at the mean follow-up of 5.4 years and 11.0 % at a mean follow-up of 6.9 years respectively. The hazard of revision was not affected by age. Conclusion. The clinical outcome, as well as the probability for revision surgery following TAA, is comparable between younger and older patients. The overall revision rate of the Hintegra total ankle is comparable with other three component designs. TAA should no longer be reserved for low demand elderly patients, but should also be recognized as a viable option for active patients of younger age. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(7):925–932

Aims

The first metatarsal pronation deformity of hallux valgus feet is widely recognized. However, its assessment relies mostly on 3D standing CT scans. Two radiological signs, the first metatarsal round head (RH) and inferior tuberosity position (ITP), have been described, but are seldom used to aid in diagnosis. This study was undertaken to determine the reliability and validity of these two signs for a more convenient and affordable preoperative assessment and postoperative comparison.

Proximal osteotomies for forefoot deformity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis have hitherto not been described. We evaluated combination joint-preserving surgery involving three different proximal osteotomies for such deformities. A total of 30 patients (39 feet) with a mean age of 55.6 years (45 to 67) underwent combined first tarsometatarsal fusion and distal realignment, shortening oblique osteotomies of the bases of the second to fourth metatarsals and a fifth-ray osteotomy. The mean follow-up was 36 months (24 to 68). The mean foot function index scores for pain, disability and activity subscales were 18, 23, and 16 respectively. The mean Japanese Society for Surgery of the Foot score improved significantly from 52.2 (41 to 68) to 89.6 (78 to 97). Post-operatively, 14 patients had forefoot stiffness, but had no disability. Most patients reported highly satisfactory walking ability. Residual deformity and callosities were absent. The mean hallux valgus and intermetatarsal angles decreased from 47.0° (20° to 67°) to 9.0° (2° to 23°) and from 14.1° (9° to 20°) to 4.6° (1° to 10°), respectively. Four patients had further surgery including removal of hardware in three and a fifth-ray osteotomy in one. With good peri-operative medical management of rheumatoid arthritis, surgical repositioning of the metatarsophalangeal joint by metatarsal shortening and consequent relaxing of surrounding soft tissues can be successful. In early to intermediate stages of the disease, it can be performed in preference to joint-sacrificing procedures

Aims

This study reports updates the previously published two-year clinical, functional, and radiological results of a group of patients who underwent transfibular total ankle arthroplasty (TAA), with follow-up extended to a minimum of five years.

It has been suggested that a supramalleolar osteotomy can return the load distribution in the ankle joint to normal. However, due to the lack of biomechanical data, this supposition remains empirical. The purpose of this biomechanical study was to determine the effect of simulated supramalleolar varus and valgus alignment on the tibiotalar joint pressure, in order to investigate its relationship to the development of osteoarthritis. We also wished to establish the rationale behind corrective osteotomy of the distal tibia. We studied 17 cadaveric lower legs and quantified the changes in pressure and force transfer across the tibiotalar joint for various degrees of varus and valgus deformity in the supramalleolar area. We assumed that a supramalleolar osteotomy which created a varus deformity of the ankle would result in medial overload of the tibiotalar joint. Similarly, we thought that creating a supramalleolar valgus deformity would cause a shift in contact towards the lateral side of the tibiotalar joint. The opposite was observed. The restricting role of the fibula was revealed by carrying out an osteotomy directly above the syndesmosis. In end-stage ankle osteoarthritis with either a valgus or varus deformity, the role of the fibula should be appreciated and its effect addressed where appropriate

We carried out a retrospective study to assess the clinical results of lengthening the fourth metatarsal in brachymetatarsia in 153 feet of 106 patients (100 female, six males) using three different surgical techniques. In one group lengthening was performed by one-stage intercalary bone grafting secured by an intramedullary Kirschner-wire (45 feet, 35 patients). In the second group lengthening was obtained gradually using a mini-external fixator after performing an osteotomy with a saw (59 feet, 39 patients) and in the third group lengthening was achieved in a gradual manner using a mini-external fixator after undertaking an osteotomy using osteotome through pre-drilled holes (49 feet, 32 patients). The mean age of the patients was 26.3 years (13 to 48). Pre-operatively, the fourth ray of the bone-graft group was longer than that of other two groups (p < 0.000). The clinical outcome was compared in the three groups. The mean follow-up was 22 months (7 to 55). At final follow-up, the mean lengthening in the bone-graft group was 13.9 mm (3.5 to 23.0, 27.1%) which was less than that obtained in the saw group with a mean of 17.8 mm (7.0 to 33.0, 29.9%) and in the pre-drilled osteotome group with a mean of 16.8 mm (6.5 to 28.0, 29.4%, p = 0.001). However, the mean time required for retention of the fixation in the bone-graft group was the shortest of the three groups. Patients were dissatisfied with the result for five feet (11.1%) in the bone-graft group, eight (13.6%) in the saw group and none in the pre-drilled osteotomy group (p < 0.000). The saw group included eight feet with failure of bone formation after surgery. Additional operations were performed in 20 feet because of stiffness (n = 7, all groups), failure of bone formation (n = 4, saw group), skin maceration (n = 4, bone-graft group), malunion (n = 4, bone-graft and saw groups) and breakage of the external fixator (n = 1, saw group). We conclude that the gradual lengthening by distraction osteogenesis after osteotomy using an osteotome produces the most reliable results for the treatment of fourth brachymetatarsia

Aims. The aim of this study was to evaluate antegrade autologous bone grafting with the preservation of articular cartilage in the treatment of symptomatic osteochondral lesions of the talus with subchondral cysts. Patients and Methods. The study involved seven men and five women; their mean age was 35.9 years (14 to 70). All lesions included full-thickness articular cartilage extending through subchondral bone and were associated with subchondral cysts. Medial lesions were exposed through an oblique medial malleolar osteotomy, and one lateral lesion was exposed by expanding an anterolateral arthroscopic portal. After refreshing the subchondral cyst, it was grafted with autologous cancellous bone from the distal tibial metaphysis. The fragments of cartilage were fixed with 5-0 nylon sutures to the surrounding cartilage. Function was assessed at a mean follow-up of 25.3 months (15 to 50), using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot outcome score. The radiological outcome was assessed using MRI and CT scans. Results. The mean AOFAS score improved from 65.7 (47 to 81) preoperatively to 92 (90 to 100) at final follow-up, with 100% patient satisfaction. The radiolucent area of the cysts almost disappeared on plain radiographs in all patients immediately after surgery, and there were no recurrences at the most recent follow-up. The medial malleolar screws were removed in seven patients, although none had symptoms. At this time, further arthroscopy was undertaken, when it was found that the mean International Cartilage Repair Society (ICRS) arthroscopic score represented near-normal cartilage. Conclusion. Autologous bone grafting with fixation of chondral fragments preserves the original cartilage in the short term, and could be considered in the treatment for adult patients with symptomatic osteochondral defect and subchondral cysts. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2018;100-B:590–5

Aims

This is a multicentre, non-inventor, prospective observational study of 503 INFINITY fixed bearing total ankle arthroplasties (TAAs). We report our early experience, complications, and radiological and functional outcomes.

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.

Diagnostic and operative codes are routinely collected for every patient admitted to hospital in the English NHS. Data on post-operative complications following foot and ankle surgery have not previously been available in large numbers. Data on symptomatic venous thromboembolism events and mortality within 90 days were extracted for patients undergoing fixation of an ankle fracture, first metatarsal osteotomy, hindfoot fusions and total ankle replacement over a period of 42 months. For ankle fracture surgery (45 949 patients), the rates of deep-vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism and mortality were 0.12%, 0.17% and 0.37%, respectively. For first metatarsal osteotomy (33 626 patients), DVT, pulmonary embolism and mortality rates were 0.01%, 0.02% and 0.04%, and for hindfoot fusions (7033 patients) the rates were 0.03%, 0.11% and 0.11%, respectively. The rate of pulmonary embolism in 1633 total ankle replacement patients was 0.06%, and there were no recorded DVTs and no deaths. Statistical analysis could only identify risk factors for venous thromboembolic events of increasing age and multiple comorbidities following fracture surgery. Venous thromboembolism following foot and ankle surgery is extremely rare, but this subset of fracture patients is at a higher risk. However, there is no evidence that thromboprophylaxis reduces this risk, and these national data suggest that prophylaxis is not required in most of these patients

In this retrospective study, using the prospectively collected database of the AO-Documentation Centre, we analysed the outcome of 57 malunited fractures of the ankle treated by reconstructive osteotomy. In all cases the position of the malunited fibula had been corrected, in several cases it was combined with other osteotomies and the fixation of any non-united fragments. Patients were seen on a regular basis, with a minimum follow-up of ten years. The aim of the study was to establish whether reconstruction improves ankle function and prevents the progression of arthritic changes. Good or excellent results were obtained in 85% (41) of patients indicating that reconstructive surgery is effective in most and that the beneficial effects can last for up to 27 years after the procedure. Minor post-traumatic arthritis is not a contraindication but rather an indication for reconstructive surgery. We also found that prolonged time to reconstruction is associated negatively with outcome

Aims

The purpose of this study is to examine the adductus impact on the second metatarsal by the nonosteotomy nonarthrodesis syndesmosis procedure for the hallux valgus deformity correction, and how it would affect the mechanical function of the forefoot in walking. For correcting the metatarsus primus varus deformity of hallux valgus feet, the syndesmosis procedure binds first metatarsal to the second metatarsal with intermetatarsal cerclage sutures.

Aims

Preoperative talar valgus deformity ≥ 15° is considered a contraindication for total ankle arthroplasty (TAA). We compared operative procedures and clinical outcomes of TAA in patients with talar valgus deformity ≥ 15° and < 15°.

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We report the medium-term outcomes of a consecutive series of 118 Zenith total ankle arthroplasties (TAAs) from a single, non-designer centre.

Aims

The hypothesis of this study was that bone peg fixation in the treatment of osteochondral lesions of the talus would show satisfactory clinical and radiological results, without complications.

Flexor digitorum longus transfer and medial displacement calcaneal osteotomy is a well-recognised form of treatment for stage II posterior tibial tendon dysfunction. Although excellent short- and medium-term results have been reported, the long-term outcome is unknown. We reviewed the clinical outcome of 31 patients with a symptomatic flexible flat-foot deformity who underwent this procedure between 1994 and 1996. There were 21 women and ten men with a mean age of 54.3 years (42 to 70). The mean follow-up was 15.2 years (11.4 to 16.5). All scores improved significantly (p < 0.001). The mean American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score improved from 48.4 pre-operatively to 90.3 (54 to 100) at the final follow-up. The mean pain component improved from 12.3 to 35.2 (20 to 40). The mean function score improved from 35.2 to 45.6 (30 to 50). The mean visual analogue score for pain improved from 7.3 to 1.3 (0 to 6). The mean Short Form-36 physical component score was 40.6 (. sd. 8.9), and this showed a significant correlation with the mean AOFAS score (r = 0.68, p = 0.005). A total of 27 patients (87%) were pain free and functioning well at the final follow-up. We believe that flexor digitorum longus transfer and calcaneal osteotomy provides long-term pain relief and satisfactory function in the treatment of stage II posterior tibial tendon dysfunction. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:346–52

As it remains unproven that hypermobility of the first tarsometatarsal joint (TMTJ-1) is a significant factor in hallux valgus deformity, the necessity for including arthrodesis of TMTJ-1 as part of a surgical correction of a hallux valgus is questionable. In order to evaluate the role of this arthrodesis on the long-term outcome of hallux valgus surgery, a prospective, blinded, randomised study with long-term follow-up was performed, comparing the Lapidus procedure (which includes such an arthrodesis) with a simple Hohmann distal closing wedge metatarsal osteotomy. The study cohort comprised 101 feet in 87 patients: 50 feet were treated with a Hohmann procedure and 51 with a Lapidus procedure. Hypermobility of TMTJ-1 was assessed pre-operatively by clinical examination. After a mean of 9.25 years (7.25 to 11.42), 91 feet in 77 patients were available for follow-up. There was no difference in clinical or radiological outcome between the two procedures. Also, there was no difference in outcome between the two procedures in the subgroup clinically assessed as hypermobile. This study does not support the theory that a hallux valgus deformity in a patient with a clinically assessed hypermobile TMTJ-1 joint requires fusion of the first tarso-metatarsal joint. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:1222–6

Aims

Infected and deformed neuropathic feet and ankles are serious challenges for surgical management. In this study we present our experience in performing ankle arthrodesis in a closed manner, without surgical preparation of the joint surfaces by cartilaginous debridement, but instead using an Ilizarov ring fixator (IRF) for deformity correction and facilitating fusion, in arthritic neuropathic ankles with associated osteomyelitis.

Metatarsus primus varus deformity correction is one of the main objectives in hallux valgus surgery. A ‘syndesmosis’ procedure may be used to correct hallux valgus. An osteotomy is not involved. The aim is to realign the first metatarsal using soft tissues and a cerclage wire around the necks of the first and second metatarsals. We have retrospectively assessed 27 patients (54 feet) using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score, radiographs and measurements of the plantar pressures after bilateral syndesmosis procedures. There were 26 women. The mean age of the patients was 46 years (18 to 70) and the mean follow-up was 26.4 months (24 to 33.4). Matched-pair comparisons of the AOFAS scores, the radiological parameters and the plantar pressure measurements were conducted pre- and post-operatively, with the mean of the left and right feet. The mean AOFAS score improved from 62.8 to 94.4 points (p < 0.001). Significant differences were found on all radiological parameters (p < 0.001). The mean hallux valgus and first intermetatarsal angles were reduced from 33.2° (24.3° to 49.8°) to 19.1° (10.1° to 45.3°) (p < 0.001) and from 15.0° (10.2° to 18.6°) to 7.2° (4.2° to 11.4°) (p < 0.001) respectively. The mean medial sesamoid position changed from 6.3(4.5 to 7) to 3.6 (2 to 7) (p < 0.001) according to the Hardy’s scale (0 to 7). The mean maximum force and the force–time integral under the hallux region were significantly increased by 71.1% (p = 0.001), (20.57 (0.08 to 58.3) to 35.20 (6.63 to 67.48)) and 73.4% (p = 0.014), (4.44 (0.00 to 22.74) to 7.70 (1.28 to 19.23)) respectively. The occurrence of the maximum force under the hallux region was delayed by 11% (p = 0.02), (87.3% stance (36.3% to 100%) to 96.8% stance (93.0% to 100%)). The force data reflected the restoration of the function of the hallux. Three patients suffered a stress fracture of the neck of the second metatarsal. The short-term results of this surgical procedure for the treatment of hallux valgus are satisfactory. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014;96-B:502–7

Aims

Tibiotalocalcaneal (TTC) fusion is used to treat a variety of conditions affecting the ankle and subtalar joint, including osteoarthritis (OA), Charcot arthropathy, avascular necrosis (AVN) of the talus, failed total ankle arthroplasty, and severe deformity. The prevalence of postoperative complications remains high due to the complexity of hindfoot disease seen in these patients. The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship between preoperative conditions and postoperative complications in order to predict the outcome following primary TTC fusion.

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We hypothesized that there is no difference in the clinical and radiological outcomes using local bone graft versus iliac graft for subtalar distraction arthrodesis in patients with calcaneal malunion. In addition, using local bone graft negates the donor site morbidity.

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The purpose of this study was to determine the functional outcome and implant survivorship of mobile-bearing total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) performed by a single surgeon.

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Total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) has become the most reliable surgical solution for patients with end-stage arthritis of the ankle. Aseptic loosening of the talar component is the most common complication. A custom-made artificial talus can be used as the talar component in a combined TAA for patients with poor bone stock of the talus. The purpose of this study was to investigate the functional and clinical outcomes of combined TAA.

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The aims of this study were to evaluate the morphology of the ankle in patients with an osteochondral lesion of the talus using 3D CT, and to investigate factors that predispose to this condition.

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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.

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Hindfoot arthrodesis with retrograde intramedullary nailing has been described as a surgical strategy to reconstruct deformities of the ankle and hindfoot in patients with Charcot arthropathy. This study presents case series of Charcot arthropathy patients treated with two different retrograde intramedullary straight compression nails in order to reconstruct the hindfoot and assess the results over a mid-term follow-up.

We carried out a cross-sectional study in 51 patients (81 feet) with a clawed hallux in association with a cavus foot after a modified Robert Jones tendon transfer. The mean follow-up was 42 months (9 to 88). In all feet, concomitant procedures had been undertaken, such as extension osteotomy of the first metatarsal and transfer of the tendon of the peroneus longus to peroneus brevis, to correct the underlying foot deformity. All patients were evaluated clinically and radiologically. The overall rate of patient satisfaction was 86%. The deformity of the hallux was corrected in 80 feet. Catching of the big toe when walking barefoot, transfer lesions and metatarsalgia, hallux flexus, hallux limitus and asymptomatic nonunion of the interphalangeal joint were the most frequent complications. Hallux limitus was more likely when elevation of the first ray occurred (p = 0.012). Additional transfer of the tendon of peroneus longus to peroneus brevis was a significant risk factor for elevation of the first metatarsal (p < 0.0001). The deforming force of extensor hallucis longus is effectively eliminated by the Jones transfer, but the mechanics of the first metatarsophalangeal joint are altered. The muscle balance and stability of the entire first ray should be taken into consideration in the management of clawed hallux

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The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical and radiographic outcomes of total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) in patients with pre-operatively moderate and severe arthritic varus ankles to those achieved for patients with neutral ankles.

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Morton’s neuroma is common condition of the forefoot, but its aetiology remains unclear. Our aim was to evaluate the relationship between the width of the forefoot and the development of a Morton’s neuroma.

Aims

A failed total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) is often associated with much bone loss. As an alternative to arthrodesis, the surgeon may consider a custom-made talar component to compensate for the bone loss. Our aim in this study was to assess the functional and radiological outcome after the use of such a component at mid- to long-term follow-up.

This study sought to determine the medium-term patient-reported and radiographic outcomes in patients undergoing surgery for hallux valgus. A total of 118 patients (162 feet) underwent surgery for hallux valgus between January 2008 and June 2009. The Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire (MOXFQ), a validated tool for the assessment of outcome after surgery for hallux valgus, was used and patient satisfaction was sought. The medical records and radiographs were reviewed retrospectively. At a mean of 5.2 years (4.7 to 6.0) post-operatively, the median combined MOXFQ score was 7.8 (IQR:0 to 32.8). The median domain scores for pain, walking/standing, and social interaction were 10 (IQR: 0 to 45), 0 (IQR: 0 to 32.1) and 6.3 (IQR: 0 to 25) respectively. A total of 119 procedures (73.9%, in 90 patients) were reported as satisfactory but only 53 feet (32.7%, in 43 patients) were completely asymptomatic. The mean (SD) correction of hallux valgus, intermetatarsal, and distal metatarsal articular angles was 18.5° (8.8°), 5.7° (3.3°), and 16.6° (8.8°), respectively. Multivariable regression analysis identified that an American Association of Anesthesiologists grade of > 1 (Incident Rate Ratio (IRR) = 1.67, p-value = 0.011) and recurrent deformity (IRR = 1.77, p-value = 0.003) were associated with significantly worse MOXFQ scores. No correlation was found between the severity of deformity, the type, or degree of surgical correction and the outcome. When using a validated outcome score for the assessment of outcome after surgery for hallux valgus, the long-term results are worse than expected when compared with the short- and mid-term outcomes, with 25.9% of patients dissatisfied at a mean follow-up of 5.2 years.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:208–14.

The last decade has seen a considerable increase in the use of in total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) to treat patients with end-stage arthritis of the ankle. However, the longevity of the implants is still far from that of total knee and hip arthroplasties.

The aim of this review is to outline a diagnostic and treatment algorithm for the painful TAA to be used when considering revision surgery.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:5–11.

While many forefoot procedures may be performed as a day case, there are no specific guidelines as to which procedures are suitable. This study assessed the early post-operative pain after forefoot surgery performed a day case, compared with conventional inpatient management.

A total of 317 consecutive operations performed by a single surgeon were included in the study. Those eligible according to the criteria of the French Society of Anaesthesia (SFAR) were managed as day cases (127; 40%), while the remainder were managed as inpatients.

The groups were comparable in terms of gender, body mass index and smoking status, although the mean age of the inpatients was higher (p < 0.001) and they had higher mean American Society of Anaesthesiologists scores (p = 0.002). The most severe daily pain was on the first post-operative day, but the levels of pain were similar in the two groups; (4.2/10, sd 2.5 for day cases, 4.4/10, sd 2.4 for inpatients; p = 0.53). Overall, 28 (9%) of patients who had their surgery as a day case and 34 (11%) of inpatients reported extreme pain (≥ 8/10). There were more day case patients rather than inpatients that declared their pain disappeared seven days after the surgery (p = 0.02). One day-case patient with excessive bleeding was admitted post-operatively.

Apart from the most complicated cases, forefoot surgery can safely be performed as a day case without an increased risk of pain, or complications compared with management as an inpatient.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:1645–50.

Talonavicular and subtalar joint fusion through a medial incision (modified triple arthrodesis) has become an increasingly popular technique for treating symptomatic flatfoot deformity caused by posterior tibial tendon dysfunction.

The purpose of this study was to look at its clinical and radiological mid- to long-term outcomes, including the rates of recurrent flatfoot deformity, nonunion and avascular necrosis of the dome of the talus.

A total of 84 patients (96 feet) with a symptomatic rigid flatfoot deformity caused by posterior tibial tendon dysfunction were treated using a modified triple arthrodesis. The mean age of the patients was 66 years (35 to 85) and the mean follow-up was 4.7 years (1 to 8.3). Both clinical and radiological outcomes were analysed retrospectively.

In 86 of the 95 feet (90.5%) for which radiographs were available, there was no loss of correction at final follow-up. In all, 14 feet (14.7%) needed secondary surgery, six for nonunion, two for avascular necrosis, five for progression of the flatfoot deformity and tibiotalar arthritis and one because of symptomatic overcorrection. The mean American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society Hindfoot score (AOFAS score) at final follow-up was 67 (between 16 and 100) and the mean visual analogue score for pain 2.4 points (between 0 and 10).

In conclusion, modified triple arthrodesis provides reliable correction of deformity and a good clinical outcome at mid- to long-term follow-up, with nonunion as the most frequent complication. Avascular necrosis of the talus is a rare but serious complication of this technique.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015; 97-B:668–74.

Aims

This is the first prospective study to report the pre- and post-operative patient reported outcomes and satisfaction scores following excision of interdigital Morton’s neuroma.

The incidence of periprosthetic fractures of the ankle is increasing. However, little is known about the outcome of treatment and their management remains controversial. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of periprosthetic fractures on the functional and radiological outcome of patients with a total ankle arthroplasty (TAA).

A total of 505 TAAs (488 patients) who underwent TAA were retrospectively evaluated for periprosthetic ankle fracture: these were then classified according to a recent classification which is orientated towards treatment. The outcome was evaluated clinically using the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score and a visual analogue scale for pain, and radiologically.

A total of 21 patients with a periprosthetic fracture of the ankle were identified. There were 13 women and eight men. The mean age of the patients was 63 years (48 to 74). Thus, the incidence of fracture was 4.17%.

There were 11 intra-operative and ten post-operative fractures, of which eight were stress fractures and two were traumatic. The prosthesis was stable in all patients. Five stress fractures were treated conservatively and the remaining three were treated operatively.

A total of 17 patients (81%) were examined clinically and radiologically at a mean follow-up of 53.5 months (12 to 112). The mean AOFAS score at follow-up was 79.5 (21 to 100). The mean AOFAS score in those with an intra-operative fracture was 87.6 (80 to 100) and for those with a stress fracture, which were mainly because of varus malpositioning, was 67.3 (21 to 93). Periprosthetic fractures of the ankle do not necessarily adversely affect the clinical outcome, provided that a treatment algorithm is implemented with the help of a new classification system.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:950–6.

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

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

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

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

Large osteochondral lesions (OCLs) of the shoulder of the talus cannot always be treated by traditional osteochondral autograft techniques because of their size, articular geometry and loss of an articular buttress. We hypothesised that they could be treated by transplantation of a vascularised corticoperiosteal graft from the ipsilateral medial femoral condyle.

Between 2004 and 2011, we carried out a prospective study of a consecutive series of 14 patients (five women, nine men; mean age 34.8 years, 20 to 54) who were treated for an OCL with a vascularised bone graft. Clinical outcome was assessed using a visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain and the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot score. Radiological follow-up used plain radiographs and CT scans to assess graft incorporation and joint deterioration.

At a mean follow-up of 4.1 years (2 to 7), the mean VAS for pain had decreased from 5.8 (5 to 8) to 1.8 (0 to 4) (p = 0.001) and the mean AOFAS hindfoot score had increased from 65 (41 to 70) to 81 (54 to 92) (p = 0.003). Radiologically, the talar contour had been successfully reconstructed with stable incorporation of the vascularised corticoperiosteal graft in all patients. Joint degeneration was only seen in one ankle.

Treatment of a large OCL of the shoulder of the talus with a vascularised corticoperiosteal graft taken from the medial condyle of the femur was found to be a safe, reliable method of restoring the contour of the talus in the early to mid-term.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:1242–9.

Aims

This retrospective cohort study compared the results of vascularised and non-vascularised anterior sliding tibial grafts for the treatment of osteoarthritis (OA)of the ankle secondary to osteonecrosis of the talus.

We have evaluated the clinical effectiveness of a metal resurfacing inlay implant for osteochondral defects of the medial talar dome after failed previous surgical treatment. We prospectively studied 20 consecutive patients with a mean age of 38 years (20 to 60), for a mean of three years (2 to 5) post-surgery. There was statistically significant reduction of pain in each of four situations (i.e., rest, walking, stair climbing and running; p ≤ 0.01). The median American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society ankle-hindfoot score improved from 62 (interquartile range (IQR) 46 to 72) pre-operatively to 87 (IQR 75 to 95) at final follow-up (p < 0.001). The Foot and Ankle Outcome Score improved on all subscales (p ≤ 0.03). The mean Short-Form 36 physical component scale improved from 36 (23 to 50) pre-operatively to 45 (29 to 55) at final follow-up (p = 0.001); the mental component scale did not change significantly. On radiographs, progressive degenerative changes of the opposing tibial plafond were observed in two patients. One patient required additional surgery for the osteochondral defect. This study shows that a metal implant is a promising treatment for osteochondral defects of the medial talar dome after failed previous surgery.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:1650–5.

We analysed the clinical and radiological outcomes of a new surgical technique for the treatment of heterozygote post-axial metatarsal-type foot synpolydactyly with HOX-D13 genetic mutations with a mean follow-up of 30.9 months (24 to 42). A total of 57 feet in 36 patients (mean age 6.8 years (2 to 16)) were treated with this new technique, which transfers the distal part of the duplicated fourth metatarsal to the proximal part of the fifth metatarsal. Clinical and radiological assessments were undertaken pre- and post-operatively and any complications were recorded. Final outcomes were evaluated according to the methods described by Phelps and Grogan. Forefoot width was reduced and the lengths of the all reconstructed toes were maintained after surgery. Union was achieved for all the metatarsal osteotomies without any angular deformities. Outcomes at the final assessment were excellent in 51 feet (89%) and good in six (11%). This newly described surgical technique provides for painless, comfortable shoe-wearing after a single, easy-to-perform operation with good clinical, radiological and functional outcomes.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:929–34.

In a retrospective study we compared 32 HINTEGRA total ankle replacements (TARs) and 35 Mobility TARs performed between July 2005 and May 2010, with a minimum follow-up of two years. The mean follow-up for the HINTEGRA group was 53 months (24 to 76) and for the Mobility group was 34 months (24 to 45). All procedures were performed by a single surgeon.

There was no significant difference between the two groups with regard to the mean AOFAS score, visual analogue score for pain or range of movement of the ankle at the latest follow-up. Most radiological measurements did not differ significantly between the two groups. However, the most common grade of heterotopic ossification (HO) was grade 3 in the HINTEGRA group (10 of 13 TARs, 76.9%) and grade 2 in the Mobility group (four of seven TARs, 57.1%) (p = 0.025). Although HO was more frequent in the HINTEGRA group (40.6%) than in the Mobility group (20.0%), this was not statistically significant (p = 0.065).The difference in peri-operative complications between the two groups was not significant, but intra-operative medial malleolar fractures occurred in four (11.4%) in the Mobility group; four (12.5%) in the HINTEGRA group and one TAR (2.9%) in the Mobility group failed (p = 0.185).

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:1075–82.

Osteochondral lesions (OCLs) occur in up to 70% of sprains and fractures involving the ankle. Atraumatic aetiologies have also been described. Techniques such as microfracture, and replacement strategies such as autologous osteochondral transplantation, or autologous chondrocyte implantation are the major forms of surgical treatment. Current literature suggests that microfracture is indicated for lesions up to 15 mm in diameter, with replacement strategies indicated for larger or cystic lesions. Short- and medium-term results have been reported, where concerns over potential deterioration of fibrocartilage leads to a need for long-term evaluation.

Biological augmentation may also be used in the treatment of OCLs, as they potentially enhance the biological environment for a natural healing response. Further research is required to establish the critical size of defect, beyond which replacement strategies should be used, as well as the most appropriate use of biological augmentation. This paper reviews the current evidence for surgical management and use of biological adjuncts for treatment of osteochondral lesions of the talus.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014;96-B:164–71.

We performed a retrospective review of a consecutive series of 178 Mobility total ankle replacements (TARs) performed by three surgeons between January 2004 and June 2009, and analysed radiological parameters and clinical outcomes in a subgroup of 129 patients. The mean follow-up was 4 years (2 to 6.3). A total of ten revision procedures (5.6%) were undertaken. The mean Ankle Osteoarthritis Scale (AOS) pain score was 17 (0 to 88) and 86% of patients were clinically improved at follow-up. However, 18 patients (18 TARs, 14%) had a poor outcome with an AOS pain score of > 30. A worse outcome was associated with a pre-operative diagnosis of post-traumatic degenerative arthritis. However, no pre- or post-operative radiological parameters were significantly associated with a poor outcome. Of the patients with persistent pain, eight had predominantly medial-sided pain. Thirty TARs (29%) had a radiolucency in at least one zone.

The outcome of the Mobility TAR at a mean of four years is satisfactory in > 85% of patients. However, there is a significant incidence of persistent pain, particularly on the medial side, for which we were unable to establish a cause.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:1366–71.

We report the clinical and radiological outcome of total ankle replacement performed in conjunction with hindfoot fusion or in isolation. Between May 2003 and June 2008, 60 ankles were treated with total ankle replacement with either subtalar or triple fusion, and the results were compared with a control group of 288 ankles treated with total ankle replacement alone.

After the mean follow-up of 39.5 months (12 to 73), the ankles with hindfoot fusion showed significant improvement in the mean visual analogue score for pain (p < 0.001), the mean American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society score (p < 0.001), and the mean of a modified version of this score (p < 0.001). The mean visual analogue pain score (p = 0.304) and mean modified American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society score (p = 0.119) were not significantly different between the hindfoot fusion and the control groups. However, the hindfoot fusion group had a significantly lower mean range of movement (p = 0.009) and a higher rate of posterior focal osteolysis (p = 0.04). Both groups showed various complications (p = 0.131) and failure occurring at a similar rate (p = 0.685).

Subtalar or triple fusion is feasible and has minimal adverse effects on ankles treated with total ankle replacement up to midterm follow-up. The clinical outcome of total ankle replacement when combined with hindfoot fusion is comparable to that of ankle replacement alone. Thus, hindfoot fusion should be performed in conjunction with total ankle replacement when indicated.

The aim of this study was to identify the incidence of post-operative symptomatic deep-vein thrombosis (DVT), as well as the risk factors for and location of DVT, in 665 patients (701 ankles) who underwent primary total ankle replacement. All patients received low-molecular-weight heparin prophylaxis. A total of 26 patients (3.9%, 26 ankles) had a symptomatic DVT, diagnosed by experienced radiologists using colour Doppler ultrasound. Most thrombi (22 patients, 84.6%) were localised distally in the operated limb. Using a logistic multiple regression model we identified obesity, a previous venous thromboembolic event and the absence of full post-operative weight-bearing as independent risk factors for developing a symptomatic DVT.

The incidence of symptomatic DVT after total ankle replacement and use of low-molecular-weight heparin is comparable with that in patients undergoing total knee or hip replacement.

Our study describes the clinical outcome of total ankle replacement (TAR) performed in patients with moderate to severe varus deformity. Between September 2004 and September 2007, 23 ankles with a varus deformity ≥ 10° and 22 with neutral alignment received a TAR. Following specific algorithms according to joint congruency, the varus ankles were managed by various additional procedures simultaneously with TAR.

After a mean follow-up of 27 months (12 to 47), the varus ankles improved significantly in all clinical measures (p < 0.0001 for visual analogue scale and American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society score, p = 0.001 for range of movement). No significant differences were found between the varus and neutral groups regarding the clinical (p = 0.766 for visual analogue scale, p = 0.502 for American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society score, p = 0.773 for range of movement) and radiological outcome (p = 0.339 for heterotopic ossification, p = 0.544 for medial cortical reaction, p = 0.128 for posterior focal osteolysis). Failure of the TAR with conversion to an arthrodesis occurred in one case in each group.

The clinical outcome of TAR performed in ankles with pre-operative varus alignment ≥ 10° is comparable with that of neutrally aligned ankles when appropriate additional procedures to correct the deformity are carried out simultaneously with TAR.

Hallux rigidus was first described in 1887. Many aetiological factors have been postulated, but none has been supported by scientific evidence. We have examined the static and dynamic imbalances in the first metatarsophalangeal joint which we postulated could be the cause of this condition. We performed a finite-element analysis study on a male subject and calculated a mathematical model of the joint when subjected to both normal and abnormal physiological loads.

The results gave statistically significant evidence for an increase in tension of the plantar fascia as the cause of abnormal stress on the articular cartilage rather than mismatch of the articular surfaces or subclinical muscle contractures. Our study indicated a clinical potential cause of hallux rigidus and challenged the many aetiological theories. It could influence the choice of surgical procedure for the treatment of early grades of hallux rigidus.

A consecutive series of 23 patients (25 ankles) with osteoarthritis of the ankle and severe varus or valgus deformity were treated by open arthrodesis using compression screws. Primary union was achieved in 24 ankles one required further surgery to obtain a solid fusion. The high level of satisfaction in this group of patients reinforces the view that open arthrodesis, as opposed to ankle replacement or arthroscopic arthrodesis, continues to be the treatment of choice when there is severe varus or valgus deformity associated with the arthritis.

Clinicians are often asked by patients, “When can I drive again?” after lower limb injury or surgery. This question is difficult to answer in the absence of any guidelines. This review aims to collate the currently available evidence and discuss the factors that influence the decision to allow a patient to return to driving. Medline, Web of Science, Scopus, and EMBASE were searched using the following terms: ‘brake reaction time’, ‘brake response time’, ‘braking force’, ‘brake pedal force’, ‘resume driving’, ‘rate of application of force’, ‘driving after injury’, ‘joint replacement and driving’, and ‘fracture and driving’. Of the relevant literature identified, most studies used the brake reaction time and total brake time as the outcome measures. Varying recovery periods were proposed based on the type and severity of injury or surgery. Surveys of the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency, the Police, insurance companies in the United Kingdom and Orthopaedic Surgeons offered a variety of opinions.

There is currently insufficient evidence for any authoritative body to determine fitness to drive. The lack of guidance could result in patients being withheld from driving for longer than is necessary, or returning to driving while still unsafe.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:290–4.

Achieving arthrodesis of the ankle can be difficult in the presence of infection, deformity, poor soft tissues and bone loss. We present a series of 48 patients with complex ankle pathology, treated with the Ilizarov technique. Infection was present in 30 patients and 30 had significant deformity before surgery. Outcome was assessed clinically and with patient-reported outcome measures (Modified American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (MAOFAS) scale and the Short-Form (SF-36)).

Arthrodesis was achieved in 40 patients with the Ilizarov technique alone and in six further patients with additional surgery. Infection was eradicated in all patients at a mean follow-up of 46.6 months (13 to 162). Successful arthrodesis was less likely in those with comorbidities and in tibiocalcaneal fusion compared with tibiotalar fusion.

These patients had poor general health scores compared with the normal population before surgery. The mean MAOFAS score improved significantly from 24.3 (0 to 90) pre-operatively to 56.2 (30 to 90) post-operatively, but there was only a modest improvement in general health; the mean SF-36 improved from 44.8 (19 to 66) to 50.1 (21 to 76). There was a major benefit in terms of pain relief.

Arthrodesis using the Ilizarov technique is an effective treatment for complex ankle pathology, with good clinical outcomes and eradication of infection. However, even after successful arthrodesis general health scores remain limited.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:371–7.

We describe a retrospective review of the clinical and radiological parameters of 32 feet in 30 patients (10 men and 20 women) who underwent correction for malalignment of the hindfoot with a modified double arthrodesis through a medial approach. The mean follow-up was 21 months (13 to 37). Fusion was achieved in all feet at a mean of 13 weeks (6 to 30). Apart from the calcaneal pitch angle, all angular measurements improved significantly after surgery. Primary wound healing occurred without complications.

The isolated medial approach to the subtalar and talonavicular joints allows good visualisation which facilitated the reduction and positioning of the joints. It was also associated with fewer problems with wound healing than the standard lateral approach.

Van Nes rotationplasty may be used for patients with congenital proximal focal femoral deficiency (PFFD). The lower limb is rotated to use the ankle and foot as a functional knee joint within a prosthesis. A small series of cases was investigated to determine the long-term outcome. At a mean of 21.5 years (11 to 45) after their rotationplasty, a total of 12 prosthetic patients completed the Short-Form (SF)-36, Faces Pain Scale-Revised, Harris hip score, Oswestry back pain score and Prosthetic Evaluation Questionnaires, as did 12 age- and gender-matched normal control participants. A physical examination and gait analysis, computerised dynamic posturography (CDP), and timed ‘Up & Go’ testing was also completed. Wilcoxon Signed rank test was used to compare each PFFD patient with a matched control participant with false discovery rate of 5%.

There were no differences between the groups in overall health and well-being on the SF-36. Significant differences were seen in gait parameters in the PFFD group. Using CDP, the PFFD group had reduced symmetry in stance, and reduced end point and maximum excursions.

Patients who had undergone Van Nes rotationplasty had a high level of function and quality of life at long-term follow-up, but presented with significant differences in gait and posture compared with the control group.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:192–8.

We investigated 60 patients (89 feet) with a mean age of 64 years (61 to 67) treated for congenital clubfoot deformity, using standardised weight-bearing radiographs of both feet and ankles together with a functional evaluation. Talocalcaneal and talonavicular relationships were measured and the degree of osteo-arthritic change in the ankle and talonavicular joints was assessed. The functional results were evaluated using a modified Laaveg-Ponseti score. The talocalcaneal (TC) angles in the clubfeet were significantly lower in both anteroposterior (AP) and lateral projections than in the unaffected feet (p < 0.001 for both views). There was significant medial subluxation of the navicular in the clubfeet compared with the unaffected feet (p < 0.001). Severe osteoarthritis in the ankle joint was seen in seven feet (8%) and in the talonavicular joint in 11 feet (12%). The functional result was excellent or good (≥ 80 points) in 29 patients (48%), and fair or poor (< 80 points) in 31 patients (52%). Patients who had undergone few (0 to 1) surgical procedures had better functional outcomes than those who had undergone two or more procedures (p < 0.001). There was a significant correlation between the functional result and the degree of medial subluxation of the navicular (p < 0.001, r² = 0.164), the talocalcaneal angle on AP projection (p < 0.02, r2 = 0.025) and extent of osteoarthritis in the ankle joint (p < 0.001).

We conclude that poor functional outcome in patients with congenital clubfoot occurs more frequently in those with medial displacement of the navicular, osteoarthritis of the talonavicular and ankle joints, and a low talocalcaneal angle on the AP projection, and in patients who have undergone two or more surgical procedures. However, the ankle joint in these patients appeared relatively resistant to the development of osteoarthritis.

There are few reports of the surgical treatment for late stage Freiburg’s disease with flattening of the metatarsal head and osteoarthritis. We describe the results of the surgical treatment of ten consecutive patients with advanced stage Freiburg’s disease (Smillie’s stage V), using a technique that has not been published previously.

We describe the early results of a prospective study of 100 total ankle replacements (96 patients) at a single centre using the Mobility Total Ankle Replacement. At final review, six patients had died and five ankles (5%) had been revised, two by fusion and three by exchange of components. All remaining patients were reviewed at a minimum of three years. The mean follow-up was 43 months (4 to 63). The three-year survival was 97% (95% confidence interval (CI) 91 to 99). The four-year survival was 93.6% (95% CI 84.7 to 97.4). The portion of bony interface that was visible on plain radiograph was divided into 15 zones and a radiolucent line or osteolytic cavity was seen in one zone in 14 ankles. It was not seen in more than one zone. In five ankles it was > 10 mm in width.

This study suggests that the early outcome of ankle replacement is comparable to that of other total joint replacements.

In distal fibular resection without reconstruction, the stabilising effect of the lateral malleolus is lost. Thus, the ankle may collapse into valgus and may be unstable in varus. Here, we describe a child who underwent successful staged surgical correction of a severe neglected valgus deformity after excision of the distal fibula for a Ewing’s sarcoma.

The Bologna–Oxford (BOX) total ankle replacement (TAR) was developed with the aim of achieving satisfactory pain-free movement of the ankle. To date, only one single multicentre study has reported its clinical results. The aim of this study was to conduct an independent review of its mid-term results.

We retrospectively reviewed a total of 60 prospectively followed patients in whom 62 BOX TARs had been implanted between 2004 and 2008. We used the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score to assess the clinical results. Standardised radiographs taken at the time of final follow-up were analysed by two observers. The overall survival was 91.9% at a mean follow-up of 42.5 months (24 to 71). The mean AOFAS score had improved from 35.1 points (sd 16.6; 4 to 73) pre-operatively to 78.0 (sd 10.7; 57 to 100) at final follow-up (p < 0.01). Tibial radiolucencies < 2 mm in width were seen around 16 TARs. Talar radiolucencies < 2 mm were seen around four TARs. A total of 47 patients (78.3%) were very satisfied or satisfied with the outcome. Five patients required revision for functional limitation or continuing pain.

We present the outcomes in 38 consecutive patients who had total ankle replacement using the Ankle Evolution System with a minimum follow-up of four years. Pain and function were assessed using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score and regular standardised anteroposterior and lateral weight-bearing radiographs were obtained. Patient satisfaction and complications were recorded and the survival of the implants was demonstrated by the Kaplan-Meier method.

The mean follow-up was for 57.8 months (48 to 80). The cumulative survival rate at six years was 94.7% (95% confidence interval 80.3 to 98.7). The mean total AOFAS score was 88.1 (53 to 100). The mean score for pain was 35.8 (20 to 40). Ten patients presented with edge-loading of whom nine had corrective surgery. Two ankles were revised, one to an arthrodesis and the other to replace the tibial component. Nine patients showed radiological evidence of osteolysis. They had minimal non-progressive symptoms and further surgery was not undertaken. Nevertheless, the concerns about osteolysis led to the implant being withdrawn by the manufacturer.

The medium-term results of the ankle evolution system ankle replacement are satisfactory with high patient satisfaction, but the rate of osteolysis is of some concern. The long-term benefit of this procedure has yet to be determined.

Charcot osteoarthropathy of the foot is a chronic and progressive disease of bone and joint associated with a risk of amputation. The main problems encountered in this process are osteopenia, fragmentation of the bones of the foot and ankle, joint subluxation or even dislocation, ulceration of the skin and the development of deep sepsis. We report our experience of a series of 20 patients with Charcot osteoarthropathy of the foot and ankle treated with an Ilizarov external fixator. The mean age of the group was 30 years (21 to 50). Diabetes mellitus was the underlying cause in 18 patients. Five had chronic ulcers involving the foot and ankle. Each patient had an open lengthening of the tendo Achillis with excision of all necrotic and loose bone from the ankle, subtalar and midtarsal joints when needed. The resulting defect was packed with corticocancellous bone graft harvested from the iliac crest and an Ilizarov external fixator was applied. Arthrodesis was achieved after a mean of 18 weeks (15 to 20), with healing of the skin ulcers. Pin track infection was not uncommon, but no frame had to be removed before the arthrodesis was sound.

Every patient was able to resume wearing regular shoes after a mean of 26.5 weeks (20 to 45).

The outcome in 83 patients with congenital clubfoot was evaluated at a mean age of 64 years using three validated questionnaires assessing both quality of life (short-form (SF)-36 and EQ-5D) and foot and ankle function (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) Foot and Ankle questionnaire). In SF-36, male patients scored significantly better than male norms in seven of the eight domains, whereas female patients scored significantly worse than female norms in two of the eight. Male patients scored better than male norms in both the EQ-5D index (p = 0.027) and visual analogue scale (VAS) (p = 0.013), whereas female patients scored worse than female norms in the VAS (p < 0.001). Both male and female patients had a significantly worse outcome on the AAOS Core Scale than did norms. There was a significant correlation for both genders between the SF-36 Physical Component Summary Score and the AAOS Core Scale.

The influence on activities of daily life was limited to foot and ankle problems in all patients, and in females there was an adverse effect in physical aspects of quality of life.

The precise localisation of osteoarthritic changes is crucial for selective surgical treatment. Single photon-emission CT-CT (SPECT-CT) combines both morphological and biological information. We hypothesised that SPECT-CT increased the intra- and interobserver reliability to localise increased uptake compared with traditional evaluation of CT and bone scanning together. We evaluated 20 consecutive patients with pain of uncertain origin in the foot and ankle by radiography and SPECT-CT, available as fused SPECT-CT, and by separate bone scanning and CT. Five observers assessed the presence or absence of arthritis. The images were blinded and randomly ordered. They were evaluated twice at an interval of six weeks. Kappa and multirater kappa values were calculated.

The mean intraobserver reliability for SPECT-CT was excellent (κ = 0.86; 95% CI 0.81 to 0.88) and significantly higher than that for CT and bone scanning together. SPECT-CT had significantly higher interobserver agreement, especially when evaluating the naviculocuneiform and tarsometatarsal joints.

SPECT-CT is useful in localising active arthritis especially in areas where the number and configuration of joints are complex.

We studied a cohort of 26 diabetic patients with chronic ulceration under the first metatarsal head treated by a modified Jones extensor hallucis longus and a flexor hallucis longus transfer. If the first metatarsal was still plantar flexed following these two transfers, a peroneus longus to the peroneus brevis tendon transfer was also performed. Finally, if ankle dorsiflexion was < 5° with the knee extended, a Strayer-type gastrocnemius recession was performed.

The mean duration of chronic ulceration despite a minimum of six months’ conservative care was 16.2 months (6 to 31). A total of 23 of the 26 patients were available for follow-up at a mean of 39.6 months (12 to 61) after surgery. All except one achieved complete ulcer healing at a mean of 4.4 weeks (2 to 8) after surgery, and there was no recurrence of ulceration under the first metatarsal.

We believe that tendon balancing using modified Jones extensor hallucis longus and flexor hallucis longus transfers, associated in selected cases with a peroneus longus to brevis transfer and/or Strayer procedure, can promote rapid and sustained healing of chronic diabetic ulcers under the first metatarsal head.

Distraction bone-block arthrodesis has been advocated for the treatment of the late sequelae of fracture of the os calcis. Between 1997 and 2003 we studied a consecutive series of 17 patients who had in situ arthrodesis for subtalar arthritis after fracture of the os calcis with marked loss of talocalcaneal height. None had undergone any previous attempts at reconstruction. We assessed the range of dorsiflexion and plantar flexion and measured the talocalcaneal height, talocalcaneal angle and talar declination angle on standing lateral radiographs, comparing them with the normal foot. The mean follow-up was for 78.7 months (48 to 94).

The mean American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society hindfoot score improved from 29.8 (13 to 48) to 77.8 (48 to 94) (Student’s t-test, p < 0.001). The mean loss of talocalcaneal height was 10.3 mm (2 to 17) and the mean talar declination angle was 6.7° (0° to 16°) which was 36% of the normal side. One patient suffered anterior ankle pain but none had anterior impingement. Two patients complained of difficulty in ascending slopes and stairs and four in descending. The mean ankle dorsiflexion on the arthrodesed side was 11.6° (0° to 24°) compared with 14.7° (0° to 24°) on the normal side, representing a reduction of 21.1%. The mean plantar flexion on the arthrodesed side was 35.5° (24° to 60°) compared with 44.6° (30° to 60°) on the normal side, a reduction of 20.4%.

These results suggest that anterior impingement need not to be a significant problem after subtalar arthrodesis for fracture of the os calcis, even when the loss of talocalcaneal height is marked. We recommend in situ arthrodesis combined with lateral-wall ostectomy for all cases of subtalar arthritis following a fracture of the os calcis, without marked coronal deformity, regardless of the degree of talocalcaneal height loss.