Should We Repair the Pronator Quadratus in a Distal Radius Fracture with an Ulnar Styloid Base Fracture? A Biomechanical Study.

Background Merits of repairing the pronator quadratus (PQ) to restore distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) stability after a volar approach remain controversial. Distal radius fractures are often associated with ulnar styloid fractures (USF). When involving the fovea, this USF can lead to a DRUJ instability. The PQ repair may be key in reducing this DRUJ instability. Methods This study aims to assess the biomechanical role of PQ repair in a cadaveric model of USF. In 17 forearm specimens, a USF including the fovea was executed. Positional changes of the DRUJ in forearm rotation and dorso-palmar (DP) translation were measured with variable loads (0, 2.5, and 5N) applied to the PQ origin. Results Forearm rotation and DP-translation decreased significantly with PQ loading of 5N, changing on average by 5 degrees and 0.6 mm, respectively. Conclusion We found a significant decrease in forearm rotation and DP-translation comparing a fully loaded PQ to an unloaded PQ in our cadaveric model.

A biomechanical study comparing the mean load to failure of two different osteosynthesis techniques for step-cut olecranon osteotomy.

Background: Olecranon osteotomies are frequently used to expose distal humeral intraarticular fractures. The step-cut olecranon osteotomy (SCOOT) is an augmented version of the oblique olecranon osteotomy, which has recently been evaluated biomechanically with tension band wiring (TBW) fixation. However, complications with TBW are common. In this study, we, therefore, compared the mean load to failure of TBW with compression screws for SCOOT fixation. We hypothesized a higher load to failure for the compression screw group. Methods: We performed a SCOOT on 36 Sawbones. Eighteen were fixed with TBW, and another 18 with two compression screws. The humeroulnar joint was simulated using an established test setup, which allows the application of triceps traction force through a tendon model to the ulna, while the humeroulnar joint is in a fixed position. Eight models of each fixation group were tested at 20°, and eight at 70° of flexion by isometrical loading until failure, which was defined as either a complete fracture or gap formation of more than 2 mm at the osteotomy site. Results: At 20° of flexion, mean load to failure was similar between the TBW group (1360 ± 238 N) and the compression screw group (1401 ± 261 N) (P = .88). Also, at 70° of flexion, the mean load to failure was similar between the TBW group (1398 ± 215 N) and the compression screw group (1614 ± 427 N) (P = .28). Conclusions: SCOOTs fixed with TBW and compression screws showed similar loads to failure. A SCOOT fixed with compression screws might be a valuable alternative for surgeons when treating intraarticular distal humeral fractures. However, future in vivo studies are necessary to confirm our results in a clinical setting.

Improved identification of unstable acromioclavicular joint injuries in a clinical population using the acromial center line to dorsal clavicle radiographic measurement.

BACKGROUND: Accurate classification and subsequent management of acromioclavicular (AC) joint injuries remains a contentious topic. The updated Rockwood classification acknowledges "stable IIIA" and "unstable IIIB" injuries, a watershed accepted by ISAKOS and important in guiding clinical management. Traditionally, the coracoclavicular distance is used to classify these injuries, despite well-documented limitations. This study aimed to evaluate displacement in AC joint injuries by measuring both coracoclavicular (CC) distance and the newly proposed acromial center line to dorsal clavicle (AC-DC) distance, in a cohort of patients, and correlate the results between the 2 measurements and relationship to Rockwood grade. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ninety consecutive cases of AC joint injury were evaluated radiographically for Rockwood classification, CC distance on anteroposterior radiographs, and AC-DC distance on Alexander view radiographs. Inter- and intraobserver reliability for each measurement was calculated as well as correlation between the 2 measurement types and the degree to which each measurement accurately represented the Rockwood classification. RESULTS: Although both CC and AC-DC measurements showed very high inter- and intraobserver reliability, the CC distance systematically underestimated the degree of AC joint displacement when compared with the AC-DC measurement as the severity of injury increased, particularly in the presence of posterior horizontal displacement such as that seen in Rockwood IV injuries. CONCLUSION: The AC-DC measurement and use of the Alexander view provides the clinician with a more realistic appreciation of true AC joint displacement, especially in defining watershed cases (ie, IIIA/IIB/IV) and may better inform the decision-making process regarding management options and recommendations.

Subscapularis in Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty.

The use of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) is becoming increasingly popular, but many biomechanical aspects are poorly understood. Particularly, the role and function of the subscapularis following RSA are unclear. Several clinical and biomechanical studies have analyzed its role in range of motion and stability. There is some evidence that the subscapularis is beneficial for stability but may reduce range of motion. This review provides an overview of the current literature, which suggests that the subscapularis may have a more important role in RSA than originally thought.

Long-term results of revision total hip arthroplasty with a cemented femoral component.

INTRODUCTION: In revision total hip arthroplasty (THA), the cancellous bone is normally completely removed out of the femoral canal during stem extraction. This situation is comparable to primary THA following the shape-closed concept, with some authors advocating to remove the metaphyseal cancellous bone to enhance press-fit stability ("French paradox"). The aim of this study was to investigate the long-term outcome, regarding survival and radiological results, of a cemented straight stem when used for revision THA and to compare these results to the results of the same stem in primary THA. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 178 stem revisions performed between 01/1994 and 08/2008 using the Virtec straight stem were included. The cumulative incidence for re-revision was calculated using a competing risk model. Risk factors for re-revision of the stem were analyzed using an absolute risk regression model. Radiographs analyzed for osteolysis, debonding and subsidence had a minimum follow-up of 10 years. RESULTS: The cumulative incidence for re-revision due to aseptic loosening of the stem was 5.5% (95% CI, 2.9-10.2%) at 10 years. Aseptic loosening was associated with younger age, larger defect size and larger stem size. After a minimum 10-year follow-up, osteolysis was seen in 39 of 80 revision THA. Compared to the results in primary THA, the survival in revision THA with the same implant was inferior. CONCLUSIONS: Cemented straight stems used for revision THA showed excellent long-term results regarding survivorship and radiological outcome. This stem therefore offers a valuable and cost-effective option in revision THA.

Mid-term results of revision total hip arthroplasty with an uncemented modular femoral component.

INTRODUCTION: During revision total hip arthroplasty (THA), the surgeon commonly faces deficient proximal femoral bone. In this situation, distal fixation of the prosthesis is required. The aim of the current retrospective study is to assess the clinical and radiographic mid-term outcome of revision total hip arthroplasty using a modular uncemented, tapered, grit-blasted, distal straight stem system. METHODS: This retrospective study included 70 femoral revisions that were performed in 67 patients using the device of interest. All patients were operated on via an extended trochanteric osteotomy. 60 revisions were performed as 1-stage (12 infected) and 10 as 2-stage (all infected) revisions. At 3 months postoperatively and at final follow-up, patients were assessed radiographically for the presence of osteolysis and for distal integration. RESULTS: The mean follow-up time was 4.3 (2.0-7.6) years. 4 patients had a removal of at least 1 prosthetic component. Stem survival for any reason was 92% after 5 years (95% confidence interval [CI], 83%-100%). With aseptic loosening of the stem as the endpoint of interest, survival after 5 years was 96% (95% CI, 88%-100%). A postoperative subsidence rate of 14.7% was found. No perioperative femoral fractures were found in the current patient series. CONCLUSIONS: This study showed excellent mid-term survival and good clinical and radiographic outcomes in patients who had undergone revision THA with a modular uncemented, tapered, straight design.

New quantitative radiographic parameters for vertical and horizontal instability in acromioclavicular joint dislocations.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to identify the most accurate and reliable quantitative radiographic parameters for assessing vertical and horizontal instability in different Rockwood grades of acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) separations. Furthermore, the effect of projectional variation on these parameters was investigated in obtaining lateral Alexander view radiographs. METHODS: A Sawbone model of a scapula with clavicle was mounted on a holding device, and acromioclavicular dislocations as per the Rockwood classification system were simulated with the addition of horizontal posterior displacement. Projectional variations for each injury type were performed by tilting/rotating the Sawbone construct in the coronal, sagittal or axial plane. Radiographic imaging in the form of an anterior-posterior Zanca view and a lateral Alexander view were taken for each injury type and each projectional variation. Five newly defined radiographic parameters for assessing horizontal and vertical displacement as well as commonly used coracoclavicular distance view were measured. Reliability, validity and the effect of projectional variation were investigated for these radiographic measurements. RESULTS: All radiographic parameters showed excellent intra- and interobserver reliability. The validity was excellent for the acromial centre line to dorsal clavicle (AC-DC) in vertical displacement and for the glenoid centre line to posterior clavicle (GC-PC) in horizontal displacement, whilst the remaining measurements showed moderate validity. For AC-DC and GC-PC, convergent validity expressed strong correlation to the effective distance and discriminant validity demonstrated its ability to differentiate between various grades of ACJ dislocations. The effect of projectional variation increased with the degree of deviation and was maximal (3 mm) for AC-DC in 20° anteverted malpositioning and for GC-PC in 20° retroverted malpositioning. CONCLUSIONS: AC-DC and the GC-PC are two novel quantitative radiographic parameters of vertical and horizontal instability in ACJ dislocations that demonstrate excellent reliability and validity with reasonable inertness to malpositioning. The use of AC-DC for assessing vertical displacement and GC-PC for assessing horizontal displacement in a single Alexander view is recommended to guide the appropriate management of ACJ dislocations. A better appreciation of the degree of horizontal instability, especially in lower Rockwood grades (II, III) of ACJ dislocations, may improve management of these controversial injuries.

Mid- to Long-term Results of Supramalleolar Osteotomy.

BACKGROUND: Good clinical and radiographic short-term results have been reported for patients who underwent realignment surgery of the hindfoot for treatment of early- and mid-stage ankle osteoarthrosis (OA). However, no mid- to long-term results have been reported. The aim of this study was to gain a better insight into the indications and contraindications for realignment surgery. METHODS: Two hundred ninety-four patients (298 ankles) underwent realignment surgery between December 1999 and June 2013. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was performed with total ankle replacement and arthrodesis of the ankle joint as endpoints. A Cox proportional hazards model was performed to identify risk factors for failure. The mean time to follow-up was 5.0 ± 3.7 years. RESULTS: The overall 5-year survival rate was 88%. Thirty-eight patients (12.9%) underwent either secondary total ankle replacement or ankle arthrodesis (30 total ankle replacements, 8 ankle arthrodesis). Risk factors for failure following realignment surgery were age at the time of surgery and a Takakura score of 3b preoperatively. CONCLUSION: Realignment surgery of the hindfoot was an excellent treatment option for young and physically active patients with early to mid-stage ankle OA. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, prospective observational study.

Risk of infection in primary, elective total hip arthroplasty with direct anterior approach or lateral transgluteal approach: a prospective cohort study of 1104 hips.

BACKGROUND: The direct anterior approach (DAA) is increasingly popular for hip replacement. However, the small incision and the location near to the groin might increase the risk of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). We asked the questions (i) whether there is an increased risk of infection for this approach, and (ii) whether the spectrum of microorganisms differs between patients with DAA and those with lateral transgluteal approach (LAT). METHODS: All patients operated between 08/2006 and 12/2013 were followed prospectively in an in house register. The DAA was introduced as routine in 02/2009 at our hospital. Patients with primary elective hip replacement without previous operations were included. Follow-up was scheduled after 6, 12 weeks and 1, 2 years. PJI was defined according to standardized criteria. RESULTS: One thousand one hundred four patients were studied, 700 were operated with DAA and 404 with LAT. No patient was lost to follow-up. PJI was diagnosed in 23/1104 (2.1 %) patients, 16 (2.3 %) in the group with DAA, and 7 (1.7 %) in the group with LAT. Patients with infection had a higher BMI (p < 0.001) and a higher ASA score (p < 0.001). Only patients with the DAA had exogenous PJI caused by gramnegative bacilli (35.7 % vs 0 %, p = 0.26). In the DAA-group, the fraction of patients with polymicrobial infection was somewhat higher than in the LAT-group (50 % vs 33 %, P = 0.64). CONCLUSION: There was no increased risk of infection for the DAA.

Similar effect of stem geometry on radiological changes with 2 types of cemented straight stem: The Müller stem and the Virtec stem compared in 711 hips.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: There are 2 basic principles in cemented stem fixation: shape-closed and force-closed. We investigated 2 shape-closed straight stems, the Müller (MSS) and the Virtec (VSS), which differ only in geometrical cross section, to determine whether the difference in stem shape would affect the radiological results or long-term survival. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We included 711 hips (in 646 patients) that were operated on between July 1996 and July 2003. Patients randomly received either an MSS (n = 356) or a VSS (n = 355) and were followed prospectively. Radiographs taken at a follow-up of > 10 years were analyzed for osteolysis. Kaplan-Meier (KM) survival analysis was performed using various endpoints. We also performed Cox regression analysis to identify risk factors for aseptic loosening and osteolysis of the stem. RESULTS: After 10 years, KM survival with "revision of any component for any reason" was 92% (95% CI: 88-95) for the MSS and 95% (CI: 92-97) for the VSS (p = 0.1). With "revision for aseptic loosening of the stem" as the endpoint, KM survival was 96% (CI: 9-98) for the MSS and 98% (CI: 97-100) for the VSS (p = 0.2). Cox regression showed that none of the risk factors analyzed were independent regarding aseptic loosening of the stem or regarding osteolysis. INTERPRETATION: The MSS and the VSS showed excellent survival for aseptic loosening after 10 years. For the 2 different stem designs, we did not find any independent risk factors for aseptic loosening or development of osteolysis.

Orientation of the Subtalar Joint: Measurement and Reliability Using Weightbearing CT Scans.

BACKGROUND: Up to 60% of patients with an osteoarthritic ankle joint develop talar tilt with progression of the osteoarthritic process. The configuration of the subtalar joint, in particular the posterior facet, may contribute to the development of this wear pattern. Recently, the subtalar vertical angle (SVA) was used to describe the posterior facet of the subtalar joint in the frontal plane. The aim of this work was to analyze if the orientation of the subtalar joint may influence the type of asymmetric ankle osteoarthritis. METHODS: In total, 60 ankles were retrospectively analyzed including 40 osteoarthritic patients and 20 healthy controls. The osteoarthritic ankles were divided into 4 groups: varus ankle joints with (incongruent) or without (congruent) a tilted talus and valgus ankle joints with (incongruent) or without (congruent) a tilted talus. The orientation of the subtalar joint was described using the SVA. The SVA was determined for every patient using weightbearing CT scans. Additionally, the inter- and intraobserver reliability was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). RESULTS: The inter- and intraobserver reliability was excellent (ICC > 0.989 and >0.975, respectively). The varus groups (incongruent and congruent) had significantly lower SVA values, that is, more varus orientation of the subtalar joint than the valgus groups (P < .05). The SVA of the control group was between the values of the varus and valgus ankles. CONCLUSION: The SVA provided a reliable and consistent method to assess the varus/valgus configuration of the posterior facet of the subtalar joint. In our cohort, varus osteoarthritis of the ankle joint occurred with varus orientation of the subtalar joint whereas in patients with valgus osteoarthritis, valgus orientation of the subtalar joint was found. Our data suggest that the subtalar joint orientation may be a risk factor for the development of ankle joint osteoarthritis. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, retrospective case control study.

Radiological morphology of peritalar instability in varus and valgus tilted ankles.

BACKGROUND: Varus and valgus talar tilt in weight-bearing ankles can be explained by loss of peritalar stability allowing the talus to shift and rotate on the calcaneal and navicular surfaces. Little is known about the underlying destabilization process or the resulting talar malpositions. The purpose of this study was to determine talar position in 3 radiographic planes of varus and valgus tilted ankles. METHODS: Standard weight-bearing radiographs of 126 varus ankles (118 patients [mean age 62 ± 12 years]) and 81 valgus ankles (75 patients [mean age 65 ± 10 years]) were retrospectively evaluated. The tibiotalar surface angle, sagittal talocalcaneal inclination angle, and horizontal talometatarsal I angle were used to determine the frontal, sagittal, and horizontal position of the talus. A control group was used for comparison. RESULTS: Isolated talar varus malposition was found in 33.3% of the ankles (42/126), and malposition in 1 or both additional planes was found in 49.2% (62/126) and 17.5% (22/126), respectively. In valgus ankles, the percentages were 52% (42/81), 43% (35/81), and 5% (4/81), respectively. Seven out of 9 possible varus and 5 out of 9 possible valgus talar malposition configurations were found. The 4 predominant varus malposition configurations (89.7%, or 113/126) were dorsiflexion or neutral (sagittal plane) combined with neutral/external rotation and neutral/internal rotation (horizontal plane), respectively. The 3 predominant valgus malposition configurations (95%, or 77/81) were neutral or plantar flexion (sagittal plane) combined with neutral/external rotation and neutral (horizontal plane), respectively. CONCLUSION: In varus and valgus tilted ankles, talar frontal plane alignment does not predict talar sagittal and horizontal position, indicating that peritalar instability leads to various talar malpositions. Prior to operative treatment of varus and valgus tilted ankles, thorough 3-dimensional analysis of talar position may minimize failure in properly balancing the talus within the ankle mortise. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, retrospective comparative series.

Effect of supramalleolar osteotomy and total ankle replacement on talar position in the varus osteoarthritic ankle: a comparative study.

BACKGROUND: In varus osteoarthritic ankles, joint congruency is usually lost leading to progressive wear of the medial tibiotalar joint. Recent studies have shown that balancing the hindfoot with the aid of supramalleolar osteotomy (SMOT) is an effective method to decrease symptoms and to delay progression of osteoarthritis of the ankle joint. Resurfacing the articular surfaces with total ankle replacement (TAR), in contrast, may compensate for the lost joint congruency and lost stability of the talus at the peritalar joint. However, no literature exists with regard to the overall correction of talar position in all 3 planes when using these 2 treatment modalities. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of SMOT and TAR on talar position in all 3 planes, and to compare the efficiency of both procedures in restoring overall hindfoot geometry. METHODS: Out of 104 ankles with a varus-tilted ankle, 52 patients were treated with SMOT and 52 with TAR. Weight-bearing radiographs were analyzed to measure the talar position in all 3 planes, including the talar tilt angle (TT), the sagittal talocalcaneal inclination angle (TCI), and the talometatarsal 1 angle (TMT1) pre- and postoperatively. RESULTS: Although after TAR the talar position was corrected in all the 3 planes, SMOT on the other hand did not fully correct the TT, and furthermore TMT1 remained unchanged. CONCLUSIONS: Resurfacing of the worn-out articular surface and tensioning of ligaments, as is the case in TAR, radiographically restores the hindfoot geometry in the neutral position better than SMOT does. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, retrospective comparative study.

Surgical Treatment of Overcorrected Clubfoot Deformity.

INTRODUCTION: In our experience, a supramalleolar osteotomy with or without calcaneal osteotomy and midfoot osteotomy has been an effective treatment for sequelae resulting from overcorrected clubfoot deformity. STEP 1 PREOPERATIVE ASSESSMENT AND PLANNING: Determine the treatment using the decisional algorithm in Figure 3. STEP 2 PATIENT POSITIONING: Use spinal or general anesthesia, administer intravenous antibiotics, position the patient supine, apply a tourniquet. STEP 3 MEDIAL APPROACH TO THE DISTAL PART OF THE TIBIA: Use a medial approach to expose the distal part of the tibia. STEP 4 SUPRAMALLEOLAR OSTEOTOMY: Remove the bone wedge, close the osteotomy, and use rigid plate fixation to secure the correction. STEP 5 ADDITIONAL PROCEDURES IF NECESSARY: If necessary, perform fibular osteotomy, calcaneal osteotomy, and/or plantar flexion osteotomy of the first cuneiform. STEP 6 CLOSURE OF ALL INCISIONS AND POSTOPERATIVE CARE: A short leg splint is worn for two days, followed by partial weight-bearing with the ankle protected in a splint at night and a walking boot during the day for eight weeks. RESULTS: Between 2002 and 2009, fourteen adult patients (mean age, thirty-seven years; range, nineteen to sixty-six years) who presented with a symptomatic overcorrected clubfoot deformity were treated with a supramalleolar osteotomy. WHAT TO WATCH FOR: IndicationsContraindicationsPitfalls & Challenges.

Long-term survival and radiological results of the Duracon™ total knee arthroplasty.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to analyse the long-term (>ten years) survival rate and radiological results of the Duracon TKA. METHODS: Between 1992 and 1999 159 Duracon TKA were implanted at our institution. A Kaplan-Meier survival analysis for the endpoints exchange, addition or removal of any component for any reason, revision due to aseptic loosening and mechanical failure was performed. Radiological long-term (>ten years) follow-up (FU) analysis was performed according to the Knee Society Radiographic Evaluation and Scoring System. RESULTS: Mean age at surgery was 74.3 years, 28% were male, and 89% had primary osteoarthritis as diagnosis. Mean FU for survival analysis was 10.9 years (SD 4.2). A total of 58% of the patients died during follow-up. Three patients (2.1%) were lost to follow-up and five TKA (3.1%) were revised. After ten years the mean survival was 97.7%, 99.4% and 98.3% for the aforementioned endpoints, respectively. Mean radiological FU was 11.8 years (SD 2.3). We found no significant change in alignment of the components or axis over time. Progressive radiolucencies were found in nine TKA (17%), mainly around the tibial component (95%). CONCLUSION: The Duracon TKA showed excellent long-term survival comparable to data from national registers and to other successful designs. Radiological changes found on plain radiographs were scarce after almost 12 years of radiological follow-up indicating good implant stability.

Mini-open sinus tarsi approach with percutaneous screw fixation of displaced calcaneal fractures: a prospective computed tomography-based study.

BACKGROUND: Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of calcaneal fractures using an extended lateral approach results in soft tissue disruption and theoretically subtalar joint stiffness. A minimally invasive sinus tarsi approach for posterior facet exposure and percutaneous screw fixation of the calcaneal body has been implemented. This report details the reduction and stability of the internal fixation resulting from this approach. METHODS: Twenty-one consecutive patients (18 male, 3 female, 45 ± 16 years) with 22 calcaneal fractures underwent ORIF with minimal exposure through the sinus tarsi for reduction, lateral plate fixation, and percutaneous screw fixation. There were nine Sanders type II fractures and 13 type III fractures. Sixteen fractures had calcaneocuboid joint involvement. Nineteen patients (19 fractures) were available for follow-up (mean, 32 ± 14 months). Two computed tomography scans were obtained on each patient, one immediately postoperatively and one after a minimum of 1 year, to evaluate reduction and fixation stability, respectively. The posterior facet and calcaneocuboid joint were graded excellent, good, fair, or poor, according to articular step, defect, and angulation. Any change was considered loss of stability. Similarly, on a conventional two-dimensional radiograph, more than 5° of Bohler's angle difference was defined as loss of calcaneal height. RESULTS: Postoperative posterior facet and calcaneocuboid joint reduction was good (step < 1 mm, defect < 5 mm, angulation < 5°) or excellent (no step, defect, angulation) in 14/22 (64%) and 11/16 fractures, respectively. At follow-up, no loss of reduction at the posterior facet and calcaneocuboid joint was noted. More than 5° of Bohler's angle decrease was found in three patients. CONCLUSION: Even complex calcaneal fractures can be sufficiently exposed by a minimally invasive sinus tarsi approach for anatomic reduction and stable fixation. Most patients had good or excellent functional results, which may have resulted from minimal soft tissue disruption.

Reconstructive surgery for overcorrected clubfoot in adults.

BACKGROUND: A known complication of the surgical treatment of clubfoot deformity is hindfoot valgus deformity of the ankle and/or the subtalar joint leading to calcaneofibular and/or anterior ankle impingement and flatfoot deformity. The purpose of this prospective study was to assess the radiographic outcome, pain relief, and functional improvement in patients with symptomatic overcorrected clubfoot deformity who were managed with a supramalleolar osteotomy. METHODS: Fourteen patients with an overcorrected clubfoot deformity and a mean age of 36.9 ± 14.0 years were managed with a supramalleolar osteotomy. The mean duration of follow-up was 50.6 months. Radiographic assessment included comparison of the preoperative and postoperative distal tibial joint surface angle, tibiotalar angle, and amount of calcaneal offset on the hindfoot alignment view. Clinical outcomes were quantified with use of a visual analog score for pain and the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot score. RESULTS: No perioperative complications occurred. Radiographically, all osteotomy sites healed within eight weeks and the orientation of the distal tibial articular surfaces was normalized in all cases. Clinically, calcaneofibular and anterior ankle impingement resolved in all patients and the mean visual analog score for pain decreased significantly from 4.1 ± 1.7 to 2.2 ± 1.5 (p < 0.05). The mean AOFAS hindfoot score increased significantly from 51.6 ± 12.3 preoperatively to 77.8 ± 11.8 postoperatively (p < 0.05). The ankle motion increased significantly from 25° ± 12° preoperatively to 29° ± 9° postoperatively (p < 0.05). All patients walked in normal shoes. CONCLUSIONS: Supramalleolar osteotomy is an effective surgical procedure for the treatment of ankle impingement in patients with an overcorrected congenital clubfoot deformity. The correction is associated with a low risk of perioperative complications and leads to significant reduction of pain, increased ankle motion, and improved clinical outcome (p < 0.05).

The reliability and validity of radiographic measurements for determining the three-dimensional position of the talus in varus and valgus osteoarthritic ankles.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the most accurate radiographic method to determine talar three-dimensional position in varus and valgus osteoarthritic ankles, we evaluated the reliability and validity of different radiographic measurements. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Nine radiographic measurements were performed blindly on weight-bearing mortise, sagittal, and horizontal radiographs of 33 varus and 33 valgus feet (63 patients). Intra- and interobserver reliability was determined with the intraclass coefficient (ICC). Discriminant validity of measurements between varus and valgus feet was assessed with effect size (ES). Convergent validity (Pearson's r) was evaluated by correlating measurements to the dichotomized varus and valgus groups. Obtained measurements in both groups were finally compared with each other and with 30 control feet. RESULTS: Reliability was excellent (ICC > 0.80) in all but two measurements. Whereas frontal plane validity was excellent (ES and r > 0.80), horizontal and sagittal measurements showed poor to moderate validity (ES and r between 0.00 and 0.60). Four measurements were significantly different among all groups (p < 0.05). Talar positional tendency was found towards dorsiflexion or endorotation in the varus group and towards plantarflexion or exorotation in the valgus group. The frontal tibiotalar surface angle, sagittal talocalcaneal inclination angle, and horizontal talometatarsal I angle showed the best reliability, validity, and difference among the groups. CONCLUSION: The frontal tibiotalar surface angle, sagittal talocalcaneal inclination angle, and horizontal talometatarsal I angle accurately determine talar three-dimensional radiographic position in weight-bearing varus and valgus osteoarthritic ankles. Careful radiographic evaluation is important, as these deformities affect talar position in all three planes.

Treatment of posttraumatic varus ankle deformity with supramalleolar osteotomy.

Supramalleolar osteotomies for correction of posttraumatic varus arthritis in early and mid-stages provide good functional and clinical outcomes. However, the biomechanical behavior of the ankle joint differs from the knee, and therefore correction of the distal TAS angle alone may not provide a physiologic load transfer across the ankle joint. Osseous balancing of an arthritic varus ankle joint may require not only correction of the articular surface angle in the frontal plane but may include a biplanar correction to improve the talar coverage and a fibular osteotomy to restore ankle joint congruency.

Effect of supramalleolar varus and valgus deformities on the tibiotalar joint: a cadaveric study.

BACKGROUND: Distal tibia coronal plane malalignment predisposes the ankle joint to asymmetric load. The purpose of this cadaveric study was to quantify changes in pressure and force transfer in an ankle with a supramalleolar deformity. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Seventeen cadaveric lower legs were loaded with 700 N after creating supramalleolar varus and valgus deformities. The fibula was left intact in 11 specimens and osteotomized in six. Tekscan© sensors were used to measure the tibiotalar pressure characteristics. RESULTS: In isolated supramalleolar deformity, the center of force and peak pressure moved in an anteromedial direction for valgus and posterolateral direction for varus deformities. The change was in an anteromedial direction for varus and in a posterolateral direction for valgus deformities in specimens with an osteotomized fibula. CONCLUSION: Two essentially different groups of varus and valgus deformities of the ankle joint need to be distinguished. The first group is an isolated frontal plane deformity and the second group is a frontal plane deformity with associated incongruency of the ankle mortise. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Our findings underline the complexity of asymmetric osteoarthritis of the ankle joint. In addition, results from this study provide useful information for future basic research on coronal plane deformity of the hindfoot and for determining appropriate surgical approaches.