Differential Diagnosis of Elbow Pain / 이화의대지

Elbow pain is a common symptom encountered in clinical practice. Pathology can arise from any component of the joint, including the bone, tendons, ligament, bursa, or nerves. This paper discusses how elbow pain can be differentiated according to its anatomic location and presents the corresponding causes, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Current Trends in the Treatment of Acute Achilles Tendon Rupture:Analysis of the Korean Foot and Ankle Society (KFAS) Member Survey / 대한족부족관절학회지

Purpose@#This study was based on the Korean Foot and Ankle Society (KFAS) member survey and aimed to report the current trends in the epidemiology, diagnosis, and management of acute Achilles tendon rupture (AATR) over the past few decades. @*Materials and Methods@#A web-based questionnaire containing 34 questions was sent to all KFAS members in October 2021. The questions were mainly related to the clinical experience and preferred management of patients with AATR. Answers with a prevalence ≥50% of the respondents were considered a tendency. @*Results@#Seventy-one (12.9%) of the 550 members responded to the survey. The male sex ratio in AATR was answered mean 78%, and the most common age groups were 30~40 years (n=49; 69.0%), and 40~50 years (n=37; 52.1%), in that order. The most common seasons for the occurrence of AATR were spring (37 cases; 52.1%) and autumn (27 cases; 38.0%). Also, sports-related rupture had an average occurrence of 76.2%. The most important clinical factor to determine the type of treatment was the history of previous injuries, and 75.9% of respondents started conservative treatment in the 2010s. The most preferred protocol of conservative treatment was an orthosis capable of ankle range of motion after casting (68.5%), and 53.7% ‘satisfied’ and 1.9% ‘very satisfied’ with conservative treatment. The most preferred surgical method was open repair (80.3%), and the Krackow method (60.6%), and 49.3% of treated patients responded ‘satisfied’ and 45.1% ‘very satisfied’ with this treatment. @*Conclusion@#This study gives updated information concerning the current trend of epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment of AATR in Korea. Both consensus and variation in the approach to AATR were identified using this survey study. This study may raise the awareness of various possible approaches toward AATR and should be used to further establish a standard protocol for the management of this injury.

What Happens without Treating Chronic Lateral Ankle Instability / 대한족부족관절학회지

The term chronic lateral ankle instability (CLAI) embraces a spectrum of conditions that involve functional and mechanical instability, both in athletes and lower-demand patients. The hallmarks of CLAI are recurrent sprains, persistent pain, and repeated episodes of the ankle giving way. CLAI is the main complication of acute ankle sprains, which can cause discomfort in daily and sports activity. Approximately 10% to 30% of patients with acute ligament ruptures will develop chronic instability over the course of a year from the index injury. An accurate diagnostic approach and successful treatment plan should be established based on a comprehensive understanding of the concept of functional and mechanical instability. Unfortunately, the optimal modality for the management of CLAI is unclear. Even after conservative treatment or surgical intervention, it could result in degenerative changes to the ankle joint in the long term. Thus far, the incidence of ligamentous posttraumatic ankle osteoarthritis was reported to be 13% to 78%. The mean latency time between injury and osteoarthritis was at least 10 to 34.3 years. CLAI is an important pathological condition that can cause discomfort or dysfunction in daily activity in the short term, resulting in joint destruction in the long term. Therefore, it is important to understand the various complications that can occur when CLAI is not treated properly.

Statistical Analysis of the Risk Factors for Single Toe Amputation Patients in Wound Healing / 대한족부족관절학회지

PURPOSE: This study compared and analyzed the risk factors that affect a wound healing group and healing failure group. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From 2010 to 2018, 39 patients who had suffered a single toe amputation were evaluated retrospectively. The patients were divided into two groups (wound healing group and healing failure group - within at least 3 months following the amputation). Regarding the possible risk factors, age, gender, Wagner and Brodsky classifications, duration of diabetes mellitus, whether the patient had peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAOD) or cardiovascular disease, body mass index, HbA1c, total cholesterol, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), smoking, and alcohol were investigated. RESULTS: The mean duration of diabetes mellitus was 140 months in the healing group and 227 months in the healing failure group, and the duration of diabetes was significantly longer in the failure group (p=0.009). A significant difference in eGFR was observed between the two groups (59.17 mL/min/1.73 m2 in the healing group and 31.1 mL/min/1.73 m2 in the failure group) (p=0.022). Sixteen patients with PAOD were found, all 10 patients in the healing failure group were PAOD patients. CONCLUSION: To reduce the additional complications in single toe amputation patients, the underlying disease and appropriate treatment are the most important factors. In addition, a more proximal level of amputation also should be considered in cases of patients with PAOD, high BUN and low eGFR, and patients with long-term diabetes.

Primary Treatment of Acute Ankle Sprain: Retrospective Comparison of Cast Immobilization and Functional Ankle Brace / 대한족부족관절학회지

PURPOSE: To compare the efficacy between cast immobilization and functional treatment using an ankle brace as a treatment for acute lateral ankle sprain. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study reviewed the medical records of 157 acute ankle sprain patients who were treated between 2009 and 2014. A total of 101 cases were included in this study except for cases with a combined injury, and could not be followed up for eight weeks after the first visit. The patients were divided according to the treatment modality: a cast immobilization group (64 cases) and functional treatment group (37 cases). The clinical outcomes were assessed retrospectively based on the medical records of each group. The residual symptoms, such as pain, swelling, and instability, at three weeks after the primary treatment and at the last visit were compared. RESULTS: The residual pain and instability were significantly common in the functional treatment group at three weeks. Five cases (7.8%) of pain and one case (1.6%) of instability were in the cast group whereas nine cases (24.3%) of pain and six cases (16.2%) of instability in functional treatment group (p=0.021, p=0.014). On the other hand, there was no meaningful difference at the last follow-up. Residual pain, swelling, and instability at the last visit were noted in three (4.7%), six (9.4%), and four cases (6.3%) in the cast group, and three (8.1%), three (8.1%), and three (8.1%) were observed in the functional treatment group. Six patients refused cast immobilization. CONCLUSION: Although there was no significant difference at the last follow-up, cast immobilization appears to be more effective than a functional brace in terms of early pain relief and early restoration of ankle stability as a treatment for acute ankle lateral sprain in this study.

Value of Tibiotalocalcaneal Arthrodesis Using Retrograde Intramedullary Nailing in Severe Hindfoot Deformity and Arthritis / 대한정형외과학회잡지

PURPOSE: This study examined the radiological and clinical outcomes of tibiotalocacalcaneal arthrodesis using retrograde intramedullary nailing in a severe hindfoot deformity and ankle/subtalar arthritis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 22 patients (22 cases) with a severe hindfoot deformity and arthritis underwent tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis with retrograde intramedullary nails. The average age was 57.4 years (22–82 years) and the mean follow-up was 29.6 months (12–74 months). The radiological outcomes included an assessment of the preoperative and postoperative coronal ankle alignment, hindfoot alignment, sagittal alignment, and postoperative union time. The clinical outcomes were evaluated using the visual analogue scale (VAS), American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score, and postoperative complications. The results were analyzed statistically by dividing the patients into two groups based on a 10° angle of deformity. RESULTS: Regarding the preoperative coronal ankle alignment, 14 patients had a mean varus deformity of 17.8°±14.5° and six had a mean valgus deformity of 8.1°±6.6°. Postoperatively, a satisfactory postoperative coronal ankle alignment of less than 5° was obtained in all patients. Regarding the preoperative hindfoot alignment, 12 patients showed a mean varus deformity of 15.2°±10.5° and six had a mean valgus deformity of 8.1°±4.2°. In total, 94.4% (17 patients) had satisfactory postoperative hindfoot alignment of less than 5°. Radiological union was achieved in 90.9% at an average of 19.2 weeks (12–32 weeks) and there were 2 cases of nonunion. The clinical outcomes showed improvement in the mean VAS and AOFAS scores (p<0.001, p<0.001, respectively). Even a preoperative severe deformity more than 10° showed a significant deformity correction of coronal ankle alignment and hindfoot alignment, postoperatively (p<0.001, p<0.001, respectively). No significant differences were found between the patients with a preoperative coronal ankle deformity more than 10° and those less than 10° regarding the mean postoperative coronal ankle alignment (p=0.162). CONCLUSION: Tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis using retrograde intramedullary nailing is an acceptable technique for achieving satisfactory deformity correction, high union rate with minimal complications, and improvement of the clinical outcomes. In addition, tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis using retrograde intramedullary nailing is considered an effective treatment option, particularly in severe ankle and hindfoot deformities.

Recurred Plexiform Schwannoma of the Foot and Ankle / 대한정형외과학회잡지

Schwannomas are benign neoplasms with a Schwann cell origin. A plexiform schwannoma is a rare variant of a schwannoma with a plexiform or multinodular growth pattern. The condition occurs mostly as a solitary lesion in the skin or subcutaneous tissue, or uncommonly located in the deep soft tissue. We report a rare case of recurred multiple plexiform schwannomas arising from the posterior tibial nerve and its branch, which was located in a deep anatomic location and accompanied by a bony deformity.

Corrigendum: Efficacy of a Knee Walker for Foot and Ankle Patients: Comparative Study with an Axillary Crutch / 대한족부족관절학회지

This correction is being published to correct the corresponding author's name and information in the article.

Efficacy of a Knee Walker for Foot and Ankle Patients: Comparative Study with an Axillary Crutch / 대한족부족관절학회지

PURPOSE: An axillary crutch is the most commonly used assistive device in foot and ankle patients who require nonweightbearing. On the other hand, its use frequently induces axillary or wrist pain and critical neurovascular injuries have been reported in several studies. This study compared the clinical outcomes of patients using the knee walker and axillary crutch. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective analysis was performed comparing the utility of a knee walker and axillary crutch as a nonweightbearing ambulatory aid for 62 foot and ankle patients treated between November 2016 and March 2018. A comparative study of the two orthosis could be performed because all the patients temporarily used an axillary crutch before or after the use of a knee walker. A demographic study and comparative analysis based on the visual analogue scale (VAS) satisfaction score (0~100), complications, and fall down history were evaluated. Furthermore, under the assumption of having retreatment, their preference of orthosis between the knee walker and axillary crutch was investigated. RESULTS: The mean age of the patients was 36.5 and the mean duration of ambulation with a knee walker and axillary crutch were 5.2 and 2.4 weeks. The VAS satisfaction score of the knee walker and crutch was 88.8 and 27.5, respectively (p < 0.05). The most frequent complications of the knee walker and crutch were ipsilateral knee pain (6 cases) and axillary or wrist pain (56 cases), respectively. No case of falling down occurred during knee walker ambulation, but there were two cases of crutch ambulation. Fifty-eight patients (93.5%) preferred the knee walker and four patients (6.5%) preferred a crutch. CONCLUSION: Compared to the axillary crutch, the knee walker afforded lower complication and higher satisfaction. Most patients preferred the knee walker to a crutch. Therefore, the knee walker is an efficient and safe orthosis for foot and ankle patients who require nonweightbearing.

Comparative Study of Open Reduction and Internal Fixation and Primary Subtalar Arthrodesis for Sanders Type 4 Intra-Articular Calcaneal Fractures / 대한정형외과학회잡지

PURPOSE: To compare clinical outcome of Sanders type IV intra-articular calcaneal fracture treated with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) versus ORIF and primary subtalar arthrodesis (PSTA). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between March 2003 and November 2013, 22 patients with 22 Sanders type 4 intra-articular calcaneal fractures were included in this study. Of these, 11 were treated with ORIF (ORIF group), and 11 were treated with ORIF and PSTA (PSTA group). The mean follow-up period was 34.6 months (range, 18–72 months). Clinical outcomes were assessed along with the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society's ankle-hindfoot scale (AOFAS score), and the visual analogue scale pain score (VAS score) at 6-month, 12-month, and last follow-up. Patient satisfaction, return to previous occupation and postoperative complications were also investigated. RESULTS: The results for ORIF did not differ from those for PSTA based on the last follow-up AOFAS scores or the VAS scores (p>0.05). However, patient satisfaction was significantly higher in the PSTA group (p=0.008). Secondary subtalar arthrodesis was conducted in five patients (45.5%) of the ORIF group within 2 years postoperatively. CONCLUSION: We were unable to demonstrate a significant difference in clinical outcomes between ORIF and PSTA; however, the patient satisfaction was higher in the PSTA group. PSTA may be a suitable choice for patients who need fast recovery to daily activity and to prevent the need for secondary subtalar arthrodesis.

Tricortical-allobone Grafting in Screw Fixation for Intra-articular Calcaneal Fracture via Ollier Approach / 대한족부족관절학회지

PURPOSE: Bone grafting is often necessary to maintain a reduction and prevent delayed collapse of reduced fracture in a treatment of severely displaced comminuted intra-articular calcaneal fractures. Herein, we analyzed the usefulness and necessary conditions to perform tricortical-allobone grafting in open reduction of calcaneal fracture via the Ollier approach. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We performed a retrospective review of 57 intra-articular calcaneal fractures that underwent an operation via the Ollier approach between April 2009 and April 2015. They were divided into two groups: Group 1 (n=17) included those with tricortical-allobone grafts underneath the posterior facet fragment, and group 2 (n=40) included cases without a bone graft. We measured the Böhler angle, Gissane angle, height, and width of the calcaneus at preoperative, postoperative, and final follow-up radiograph. We measured the sagittal rotational angle of the posterior facet fragment of preoperative computed tomography to analyze the effect and necessary conditions for bone grafting. We also reviewed the clinical results by the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scale, visual analogue scale (VAS), and any complications. RESULTS: According to the Sanders classification, there were 3 type-II fractures, 12 type-III fractures, and 2 type-IV fractures in Group 1; whereas in Group 2, there were 26 type-II fractures, 13 type-III fractures, and 1 type-IV fracture (p=0.002). Regarding the preoperative radiologic parameters, there were significant differences in the Böhler angle (p=0.006), Gissane angle (p=0.043), and rotational angle of the posterior facet fragment (p=0.001). No significant difference was observed in the preoperative calcaneal height and width, as well as postoperative radiologic parameters. There was no significant clinical difference between the two groups (p=0.546). CONCLUSION: We suggest that a tricortical-allobone graft may be useful in open reduction and screw fixation via the Ollier approach for displaced intra-articular calcaneal fracture with a bony defect after reduction of collapsed posterior facet fragment. This graft can contribute to the stable reduction via a small approach, even without a plate.

Features of Lateral Malleolar Fractures in Elderly Patients and Clinical Outcome of Locking Compression Plate Fixation / 대한정형외과학회잡지

PURPOSE: Several studies have reported on the biomechanical advantages of a locking compression plate (LCP) for treatment of lateral malleolar fracture. However, few studies have reported clinical outcome after treatment of lateral malleolar fracture using a LCP in elderly patients. Thus, this study investigated the trends of lateral malleolar fractures in elderly patients and evaluated the clinical and radiological outcome of treating them using a 'locking compression distal fibula plate'. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-one patients (male: 3, female: 18) over 65 years old, who were followed-up for at least one year were enrolled in this study. They were treated surgically with open reduction and internal fixation using a LCP for lateral malleolar fracture from 2011 to 2014. Lauge-Hansen and Danis-Weber classification were used for preoperative classification of fractures. Visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores, the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot scores, 4-graded subjective satisfaction and post-operative range of motion were used for the clinical evaluation. Time to bone union, non-union, mal-union, metal failure and implant loosening were assessed for radiographic outcomes. RESULTS: The mean age of patients was 71.2 years old, pain VAS and AOFAS score was 1.6 points and 94.2 points, respectively and 18 cases (85.7%) showed more than satisfaction in subjective satisfaction. Comminuted fracture was observed in 8 cases (38.1%) and lag screw insertion was performed in 7 ankles (33.3%). The mean bony union period was 3.6 months. There were 5 cases of mal-union, no case of non-union and metal failure. CONCLUSION: Satisfaction level of elderly patients with lateral malleolar fracture was significantly associated with only pain at the final follow-up. Fixation with a LCP distal fibula plate can sometimes lead to metal irritation but largely resulted in good clinical outcome without serious complication.

Fracture of the Talus

Although talus fractures are uncommon, proper management is important because they are often associated with severe complications. Talar neck and body fractures occupy most of the talar fractures. It remains controversial whether talar neck fractures require emergent or elective treatment. Elective definitive fixation, however, may reduce risks of wound complications. Many surgeons recommend dual surgical approaches—anteromedial and anterolateral—to allow accurate visualization and anatomic reduction. Although there are various methods of fixation, the use of plates is necessary in comminuted talar fractures. Outcomes may vary and will be dependent on the degree of the initial fracture displacement. It is necessary to restore articular congruency and axial alignment for normalizing hindfoot function. Common complications include posttraumatic arthritis, avascular necrosis, malunion, and nonunion.

The Impact of the Amount of Displacement of Percutaneous Osteotomy on the Clinical Result in Bunionette / 대한족부족관절학회지

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to report impacts of the amount of displacement of percutaneous osteotomy on the clinical and radiologic results in the treatment of bunionette deformities. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed 36 cases of bunionette deformities treated with percutaneous modified Kramer osteotomies from 2009 to 2013. We measured amounts of displacement on anteroposterior and lateral plain radiographs as well as multiple parameters which represent degrees of the bunionette deformities. We also recorded radiological healing time, clinical healing time, residual symptoms, and the time of returning to daily activity. RESULTS: No meaningful correlation was found between severity of preoperative deformity and amount of displacement of the osteotomy. The amount of displacement on a horizontal plane did not affect the healing time, duration of symptoms, or time of returning to daily activity. However, large sagittal displacement was related to duration of postoperative symptoms. CONCLUSION: Findings of this study suggest that the displacement in percutaneous osteotomy for bunionette deformity does not affect clinical results and healing time. We believe that we do not need to be excessively cautious about how large the displacement we make during the percutaneous modified Kramer osteotomy for the bunionette deformity.

Usefulness of Computed Tomography in Patients with Acute Malleolar Fracture / 대한족부족관절학회지

PURPOSE: We compared plain radiographs with computed tomography (CT) images to evaluate the usefulness of preoperative CT in acute ankle malleolar fracture in terms of accuracy of diagnosis and planning of operative strategy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 210 cases of malleolar fracture treated at our institute for which plain radiograph and CT were obtained preoperatively. Observers had reviewed plain radiographs and recorded fracture classification, anatomical diagnosis, extent and configuration of fractures and then subsequently reviewed CT images. Records from each image were compared and information regarding the differences in fractures was assessed. RESULTS: Fractures were notably changed in appearance in 88 cases (41.9%) and diagnosis changed in 30 cases (14.3%). According to the change of diagnosis and fracture appearances, the operative strategy was changed in 15 cases (7.1%) including incision, order of reduction, and target of fixation. CONCLUSION: CT could be a useful adjunctive imaging tool in addition to the plain radiograph in planning of operative treatment for acute malleolar fracture in terms of estimating exact configuration, extent of fractures and even newly revealed hidden fractures.

Anatomical Repair for Chronic Lateral Ankle Instability / 대한정형외과학회잡지

Ankle sprain secondarily leads to chronic lateral ankle instability in 20%-30% of cases. Many surgical procedures have been presented for lateral ankle instability; however, controversy remains regarding the ideal surgical option. The Brostrom procedure or its modifications have been widely used; however, they have some limitations for the instabilities of over-weight, physically high demanding patients, generalized ligamentous laxity, and especially for significantly deficient or attenuated ligaments. This article reports on the difference between the bone tunnel technique and the suture anchor technique of the modified Brostrom procedure, and also provides a review of several recent debates.

Mid-Term Follow Up Results of Subtalar Distraction Arthrodesis Using a Double Bone-Block for Calcaneal Malunion

PURPOSE: This study was designed to evaluate the mid-term results and efficacy of subtalar distraction double bone-block arthrodesis for calcaneal malunion. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From January 2004 to June 2007, we operated on 6 patients (10 cases). There were 5 males (9 cases) and 1 female (1 case), four of which presented with bilateral calcaneal malunion. Seven cases were operated on initially. The period between initial injury and arthrodesis was 23 months, and the average follow up period was 58 months. In operation, we applied an extensile lateral approach and arthrodesis was performed through a tricortical double bone-block and cannulated screws. The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle-Hindfoot scale was used for clinical evaluation. In radiologic analysis, plain X-ray and CT were examined to assess union and various parameters. RESULTS: The mean age of the patients was 41 years. All cases achieved radiologic union at the final follow-up. The mean AOFAS Ankle-Hindfoot scale (maximum of 94 points) increased from 43.3 points preoperatively to 85.4 points at the final follow-up. The radiologic analysis of the pre- and postoperative standing lateral radiographs showed improvements of 5.6 mm in talo-calcaneal height, 1.8degrees in talocalcaneal angle, 5.1degrees in talar declination angle and 5.3degrees in talo-first metatarsal angle. CONCLUSION: Subtalar distraction two bone-block arthrodesis provides overall good results not only in the short term but also the mid-term with significant improvement in clinical and radiologic outcomes. This procedure warrants consideration for managing calcaneal malunion with loss of height and subtalar arthritis.

Results of Culture Test at the Time of Removal of Metal Implants Used for Ankle Fracture Management / 대한족부족관절학회지

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to report the results of culture test at the time of removal of metal devices used for management of ankle fractures and for analysis of contributing factors. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We reviewed medical records of 132 patients with lower tibia and ankle fracture who had their metal devices removed during the period from January 2010 to February 2014. Patients with clinical signs of infection were excluded. Culture test was performed by taking the granulation tissue around the metal device at the time of removal. We divided the subjects into two groups, culture positive and negative. We then performed a retrospective review of each medical record of multiple factors that might contribute to the culture results, including laboratory results, medical history, material and size of metal device, indwelling period, and whether or not it was open injury. RESULTS: Among 132 cases, six were culture positive. Enterococcus was detected in two cases and the others were Staphylococcus. No significant difference in medical history of patients and laboratory results, including C-reactive protein level, was observed between the culture positive and negative group. Culture positive rate was 5.4% in titanium and 3.9% in stainless steel. In terms of metal size, culture positive rate was 5.1% in small plates, 6.7% in large plates, and culture negative in intramedullary nails. The average indwelling period of metal device was 61.5 weeks in the culture positive group, and 68.6 weeks in the negative group. Nine cases were open fractures and all were in the culture negative group. CONCLUSION: Whether or not the culture result was positive, there were no meaningful contributing factors. Presence of bacterium on the metal device could not be screened by any laboratory results or other factors.

Treatment of Diabetic Charcot Arthropathy / 대한족부족관절학회지

Diabetic Charcot arthropathy is a severe joint disease in the foot and ankle that can result in fracture, permanent deformity, limb loss. Although recent research has improved our level of knowledge regarding its etiology and treatment, it still remains a poorly understood disease. It is a serious and potentially limb-threatening lower-extremity late complication of diabetes mellitus and its diagnosis is commonly missed upon initial presentation. Clinicians treating diabetic patients should be vigilant in recognizing early signs of acute Charcot arthropathy, such as pain, warmth, edema, or pathologic fracture in a neuropathic foot. Early detection and prompt treatment can prevent joint and bone destruction. If left untreated, it can reduce overall quality of life and dramatically increase morbidity and mortality of patients. The goal of this manuscript is to evaluate the current concepts of Charcot arthropathy through review of various literature and help clinicians decide the treatment strategy.

Effects of Beraprost Sodium on Subjective Symptoms in Diabetic Patients with Peripheral Arterial Disease

BACKGROUND: This study evaluated the effects of Beraprost sodium (Berasil) on subjective leg symptoms in patients with peripheral arterial disease caused by diabetes mellitus. METHODS: Ninety-four diabetic patients with peripheral arterial disease were treated with Beraprost in a fixed-dose, prospective, multicenter, cohort study. Beraprost (40 microg) was administered orally 3 times daily (120 microg/day) for 12 weeks. We developed a new disease-specific symptom questionnaire, which evaluated the effect of peripheral arterial disease on leg discomfort in daily life and assessed therapeutic responses to treatment. Patients were asked for their subjective assessment of symptoms on a written questionnaire before treatment and after 12 weeks of therapy. RESULTS: There was significant improvement in all estimated subjective symptoms (burning, coldness, edema, exertional pain, stabbing, and paresthesias) in the lower extremities at 12 weeks (p < 0.001). There were 18 patients with neuropathy in whom significant improvement was noted for 6 subjective symptoms at 12 weeks (p < 0.05). Adverse events considered to be drug-related were observed in 4 patients (4.3%), all of which were mild and resolved with discontinuation of the medication. CONCLUSIONS: Beraprost is effective as a treatment for improving various subjective symptoms in the lower extremities, such as burning, coldness, edema, exertional pain, stabbing, and paresthesias, in diabetic patients with peripheral arterial disease.