Mid-term follow-up of patients with hindfoot arthrodesis with retrograde compression intramedullary nail in Charcot neuroarthropathy of the hindfoot.

AIMS: 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. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We performed a retrospective analysis of 18 consecutive patients and 19 operated feet with Charcot arthropathy who underwent a hindfoot arthrodesis using a retrograde intramedullary compression nail. Patients were ten men and eight women with a mean age of 63.43 years (38.5 to 79.8). We report the rate of limb salvage, complications requiring additional surgery, and fusion rate in both groups. The mean duration of follow-up was 46.36 months (37 to 70). RESULTS: The limb salvage rate was 16 of 19 limbs. Three patients had to undergo below-knee amputation due to persistent infection followed by osteomyelitis resistant to parenteral antibiotic therapy and repeated debridement. Complications including infection, hardware removal, nonunion, and persistent ulcers requiring further intervention were also observed. Postoperative functional scores revealed significant improvement compared with preoperative scores on American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) - Hindfoot scale, Foot Function Index (FFI), visual analogue scale (VAS), and Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS). CONCLUSION: The use of retrograde intramedullary compression nail results in good rates of limb salvage when used for hindfoot reconstruction in patients with Charcot arthropathy. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2018;100-B:190-6.

[SCARF osteotomy]. / SCARF-Osteotomie.

Hallux valgus is one of the most common deformities of the lower extremity. Multiple etiologies have been discussed, and various techniques have been described. The SCARF osteotomy is indicated for moderate to severe hallux valgus deformities. The technique historically used by carpenters allows immediate postoperative weight bearing and also entails the possibility to correct the distal metatarsal articular angle by rotation of the osteotomy. The SCARF osteotomy has also been successfully used in revision surgeries.

[Surgical treatment of the Charcot foot : long-term results and systematic review]. / Operative Versorgung des Charcot-Fußes am Rückfuß : Langzeitergebnisse und systematischer Überblick.

BACKGROUND: Because of extensive bone loss and the associated complex instability and deformity of the feet, Charcot arthropathy or neuroosteoarthropathy is a challenge for the orthopedic surgeon. Ulcerations offer entry of various bacteria; thus, infections are a frequent serious issue and complication. The careful choice of treatment is not only very important for the correct alignment of the foot and the loading capacity, but also contributes significantly to the prevention of skin irritation or the healing of existing ulcers. Above all, chronic plantar ulcerations, caused by prominent exostoses or axial malalignments are almost untreatable without surgery. Because diagnosis requires an individual approach, no strict regimen of therapy has become established. OBJECTIVES: The major objective was to reduce the number of ulcerations and infections, and to minimize the risk of amputation. In addition, complications and comorbidities were determined. Tibio-calcaneal arthrodesis is a very frequently used surgical treatment option. Therefore, a special focus in the following article is on this method. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In a 12-year period (1999-2011), 43 patients (46 feet) suffering from Charcot foot were treated surgically. The following were used: triple, talo-navicular, subtalar, tibio-calcaneal arthrodesis and midfoot fusion bolts. The arthrodesis related to the hindfoot and tarsus and most commonly the tibio-calcaneal arthrodesis was applied. The reduction of load on the affected foot preoperatively and postoperatively by white-cast, Aircast walker shoe or other orthesis is essential in the treatment. For a long-term satisfactory outcome, an orthopedic custom-made shoe is indispensable after surgical treatment. RESULTS: After surgical treatment of 16 feet with ulcerations, 14 could be healed and only 2 suffered from complications, such as infections, nonunions, talus necrosis, and wound healing disorder. Revision was frequently necessary, although the majority of complications could be treated. In this population, three amputations could not be prevented. CONCLUSION: Even with strict aseptic techniques and years of experience in Charcot arthropathy, complications can occur, which can even lead to amputation. The early detection of the Charcot foot is the most important factor and helps to reduce morbidity and further complications. Co-morbid diseases (e.g., diabetes mellitus) need special care and optimal treatment, because they are often responsible for the poor surgical outcome. Finally, the ulceration rate and related complications, such as amputation, can be reduced by timely surgical treatment. Unfortunately, the progressive course of the disease often requires follow-up operations.

[The Midfoot Fusion Bolt: a new perspective?]. / Der "Midfoot Fusion Bolt" - eine neue Perspektive?

BACKGROUND: There is no current guideline nor consensus regarding optimal surgical treatment of the midfoot Charcot. Due to the vast diversity of locations, it is difficult to make a general statement. Various different types of screws and plates are currently being used since they have been tested and declared to be most stable. The Midfoot Fusion Bolt is a new device which needs approval since long-term results are lacking. A short summary of currently published papers and results from our own institution are provided. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to investigate short-term results including complications and review published surveys. METHODS: The Midfoot Fusion Bolt is a solid, intramedullary screw. An antegrade as well as a retrograde technique are postulated for insertion. A total of 16 patients/17 feet in two specialized foot and ankle centers were included. BMI, HbA1c, satisfaction rates, complication rates, and expert opinions were recorded. RESULTS: The bolts were used an average of 21.17 months (range 3-55 months) in 16 patients/17 feet. Between 2009 and 2014, six bolts had to be removed. We encountered 4 cases of postoperative ulceration: 2 cases healed postoperatively, while the other 2 cases led to amputation. The average fusion rate was 92.35 %. CONCLUSION: The Midfoot Fusion Bolt is no longer advised for single-device use only since there have been issues in terms of insufficient stability. However, stable conditions could be achieved with additional screws or plates, respectively. Prospective studies and biomechanical testing for general conclusions are still required to make a meaningful assessment.

[Modified chevron osteotomy with lateral release and screw fixation for treatment of severe hallux deformity]. / Modifizierte Chevron-Osteotomie mit lateralem Release und Schraubenfixation zur Behandlung der schweren Hallux-valgus-Deformität.

BACKGROUND: This prospective study examined the clinical and radiological results of the Chevron osteotomy with screw fixation and distal soft tissue release up to an intermetatarsal angle of 19°. Furthermore, the results are presented for patients over the age of 70 years, and whether or not there is a higher complication rate. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 86 feet of patients between 23 and 81 years were included in the study. Apart from the overall group, a group with an intermetatarsal angle of 16° to 19° and a group of patients over 70 years old were eavaluated. They were evaluated preoperatively and at follow-up after an average of 3.3 years according to the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society score. RESULTS: The AOFAS score showed a significant improvement from 55 points preoperatively to 90 points at follow-up. The preoperative hallux valgus angle decreased significantly from 32° to 5° and the preoperative intermetatarsal angle decreased from 14° to 6°. Patient satisfaction in the overall group was rated in 92 % as excellent or good. Also, the patient group with 16° to 19° angles and the patients over 70 years showed a significant improvement of clinical and radiological parameters. The complication rate was very low in all groups. CONCLUSION: The results show that the Chevron osteotomy is a very good surgical technique with few complications for the correction of splay foot with hallux valgus deformity. We showed that by using the modified technique with a long plantar arm, an excessive soft tissue release and screw fixation, the indication can be extended up to an intermetatarsal angle of 19° when using screw fixation. Furthermore the patients over 70 years of age showed a significant improvement of clinical and radiological parameters without serious complications such as avascular necrosis or dislocation of the metatarsal head.

[Functional outcome of cheilectomy for the treatment of hallux rigidus]. / Funktionelles Outcome der Cheilektomie in der Behandlung des Hallux rigidus.

INTRODUCTION: Cheilectomy is performed as treatment for hallux rigidus. Its aim is the relief of pain and improvement of function. Previous pedobarograhic studies have revealed that osteoarthritis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint leads to a lateralisation of peak forces during the stance phase of gait. This occurs since the big toe does not participate in push-off in a sufficient way. The results concerning functional outcome as well as subjective patient satisfaction were assessed in the present study. Plantar pressure distribution analysis was used in order to investigate functional outcome in a biomechanically objective way. PATIENTS AND METHOD: In this retrospective study 44 patients (52 feet) who underwent cheilectomy for the treatment of hallux rigidus were examined. There were 30 women and 14 men with a mean age of 60.1 years (range: 41-79). The average follow-up was 14.9 months (range: 6-40). The assessment included a four-stage subjective satisfaction rating scale, the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) metatarsophalangeal-interphalangeal score and first metatarsophalangeal joint (MTP) range of motion (ROM) measurements. In addition, dynamic plantar pressure distribution measurements were performed using the EMED system (Novel GmbH, Munich). The parameters maximum force (N), peak pressure (kPa), contact area (cm (2)), contact time (msec) and impulse (N × sec) were calculated for the geometric regions of interest great toe, second toe, first metatarsal head, second metatarsal head and total object. Statistical analysis was performed using paired student's t-test and level of significance was set at alpha < 0.05. RESULTS: 27 patients have been very satisfied with the operation, for 10 patients the result of the operation has been satisfactory. The mean AOFAS score increased statistically significant from 35 points presurgery to 88 points postsurgery. First MTP ROM increased from 18.1 ° before surgery to 49.1 ° at follow-up. Isolated dorsiflexion increased from 21.4 ° to 34.1 ° (p = 0.0009) and isolated plantar flexion was 15.8 ° presurgery and 16.9 ° at follow-up (p = 0.214). Plantar pressure analysis revealed no significant difference between the foot that was operated and the non-operated foot for any region of interest or pedobarographic parameter CONCLUSION: Cheilectomy represents a reliable technique for hallux rigidus that can achieve good results in patient satisfaction and functional outcome. Since the resection of osteophytes improves kinematics of the first MTP joint the technique of cheilectomy may help to restore physiological gait patterns. This is represented by the pedobarographic results of the present study. In fact, they revealed a plantar pressure distribution that is reconstructed to a satisfactory extent, showing that the big toe is reintegrated into a physiological gait pattern.

[Deformity-associated treatment of the hallux valgus complex]. / Deformitätsassoziierte Behandlung des Hallux-valgus-Komplexes.

Hallux valgus represents a combined deformity with malpositioning of the big toe in the metatarsophalangeal joint and metatarsal splaying due to metatarsus primus varus formation. It is defined on the basis of joint condition of the metatarsophalangeal and tarsometatarsal (TMT) joints, the extent and congruence or incongruence of malposition, mobility of the metatarsophalangeal joint and TMT stability. Basic resection appears to be indicated only in exceptional cases. Depending on the degree of severity, deformities can be corrected by means of distal, diaphyseal or proximal osteotomies and TMT arthrodeses. Any correction requires the use of subtle soft tissue surgery with recentering of the tendon, tightening of the medial capsule and abductor hallucis and releasing the lateral capsule. A check-list-like analysis of hallux valgus deformity helps determine the ideal procedure and avoid over- or under-treatment.

[Triple arthrodesis in treatment of degenerative hindfoot deformities: clinical, radiological and pedobarographic results]. / Die Triple-Arthrodese in der Therapie degenerativer Rückfussfehlstellungen: Klinische, radiologische und pedobarografische Resultate.

INTRODUCTION: Triple arthrodesis is performed to reconstruct a painless plantigrad foot in cases of fixed and painful hindfoot deformity. Mid-term results of our patients after triple arthrodesis concerning clinical and functional as well as radiological outcome were assessed in this examination. PATIENTS AND METHOD: In the retrospective study, 24 feet in 20 patients with triple arthrodesis after degenerative hindfoot malposition were examined. Sampling was done consecutively. The average age of the patients was 62.8 years (40-79), mean follow-up-period was 21.5 months. The patients were examined using the AOFAS score, assessment of subjective satisfaction and X-rays. In addition, the position of the foot was analysed using dynamic pedobarography and gait analysis. RESULTS: In the examined population, the mean AOFAS score was 74 (+/- 12.41) out of 94 points, the improvement averaged 51 (+/- 14.72) points. 75 % of the patients had no or only slight pain, 8 % reported limitations in everyday life. Mobility of the ankle was more than 30 degrees for 9 patients (38 %) and between 15 and 30 degrees for 13 patients (54 %). 23 patients out of 24 were satisfied with the result of the surgery. In most cases, dynamic pedobarography showed a rather physiological pattern of plantar pressure distribution with increased pressure remaining in the midfoot area. Valgus position of the hindfoot was 2.8 degrees (+/- 2.9 degrees), gait analysis showed very good results in 11 cases and good results in 13 cases. Among the examined patients, two cases of wound healing disorders appeared, and one non-union of the talonavicular joint which had to be reoperated. In two cases, clinically relevant degenerative changes of the ankle were diagnosed. CONCLUSION: Triple arthrodesis using internal fixation followed by sufficient immobilisation is a good and reliable technique for the correction of fixed hindfoot deformities. A very high level of patient satisfaction and a good clinical outcome can be achieved. Plantar pressure distribution can be reconstructed to a satisfactory extent. Due to the relatively high rate of degenerative arthritis in adjacent joints, the decision upon performing a triple arthrodesis should be considered carefully. Clinical and radiological integrity of these joints are required.

Intermediate-term results of the Ludloff osteotomy in one hundred and eleven feet. Surgical technique.

BACKGROUND: The modified Ludloff proximal first metatarsal osteotomy is indicated for the surgical correction of moderate-to-severe hallux valgus deformity associated with metatarsus primus varus. We report the intermediate-term results of this procedure. METHODS: Ninety-nine patients (111 feet) with a mean age of fifty-six years underwent a modified Ludloff proximal first metatarsal osteotomy and a distal soft-tissue procedure at two institutions for the treatment of a moderate-to-severe hallux valgus deformity. The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society score and weight-bearing radiographs of the foot were assessed preoperatively and after a mean duration of follow-up of thirty-four months. Clinical and radiographic outcome was also compared between younger and older patients, with the arbitrarily chosen age of sixty years dividing the two groups. RESULTS: The mean American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society score improved significantly (p < 0.0001) from 53 points preoperatively to 88 points at the time of the most recent follow-up. The mean American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society score for patients who were sixty years of age or less was significantly higher than that for patients who were more than sixty years of age (91 compared with 83 points; p = 0.0057). The mean hallux valgus angle decreased significantly from 35 degrees preoperatively to 9 degrees at the time of the most recent follow-up (p < 0.0001), and the mean intermetatarsal angle decreased significantly from 17 degrees to 8 degrees (p < 0.0001). All osteotomy sites united without dorsiflexion malunion but with a mean first metatarsal shortening of 2.2 mm. CONCLUSIONS: To our knowledge, the present report describes the largest cohort of patients undergoing a modified Ludloff osteotomy for the correction of hallux valgus deformity that has been reported in the literature. Our intermediate-term results demonstrate that the procedure achieves significant correction of moderate-to-severe hallux valgus deformity, significant reduction in forefoot pain, and significant improvement in functional outcome. Patients with an age of sixty years or less appear to have a more favorable outcome.

[Effect of physiotherapy on the functional improvement after hallux valgus surgery - a prospective pedobarographic study]. / Einfluss von Physiotherapie auf die Funktionsverbesserung nach Hallux-valgus-Operationen - eine prospektive pedobarografische Studie.

AIM: Recent pedobarographic analyses have shown that in spite of acceptable clinical and radiological results after hallux valgus surgery, there is decreased function of the big toe and the first ray, respectively. The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate if physiotherapy can help to increase big toe function and to restore physiological gait patterns after hallux valgus surgery. METHODS: 33 patients (31 females, 2 males, 34 feet) with a mild to moderate hallux valgus deformity have been included in this study. 22 patients underwent Austin osteotomy and 11 patients underwent Scarf osteotomy, respectively. Postsurgically, the patients wore the Rathgeber postop shoe for 4 weeks. After this period they received physiotherapy. Pedobarographic examinations were performed with the EMED-at platform 4 weeks, 8 weeks and 6 months after surgery. The AOFAS score and ROM of the first MTP joint were evaluated prior to surgery and 6 months after surgery. Also, patient's satisfaction has been evaluated 6 months after surgery. RESULTS: In the big toe region peak pressure increased from 80.7 kPa 4 weeks after surgery to 171.9 kPa 8 weeks after surgery (p < 0.0001) and 336.1 kPa 6 months after surgery. In the same period maximum force increased from 18.6 N to 47.6 N and 90.9 N, respectively. In the first metatarsal head region peak pressure increased from 141.4 kPa 4 weeks postoperatively to 215.8 kPa 8 weeks postoperatively and 292.7 kPa 6 months after surgery (p < 0.0001). The AOFAS score increased from 60.8 presurgically to 94.0 at 6 months after surgery and ROM of the first MTP joint increased during the same period from 66 degrees to 70 degrees . CONCLUSIONS: The authors conclude that postoperative physiotherapy improves big toe function and pressure distribution in the region of the first metatarsal head. This helps to restore physiological gait patterns after hallux valgus surgery.

Intermediate-term results of the Ludloff osteotomy in one hundred and eleven feet.

BACKGROUND: The modified Ludloff proximal first metatarsal osteotomy is indicated for the surgical correction of moderate-to-severe hallux valgus deformity associated with metatarsus primus varus. We report the intermediate-term results of this procedure. METHODS: Ninety-nine patients (111 feet) with a mean age of fifty-six years underwent a modified Ludloff proximal first metatarsal osteotomy and a distal soft-tissue procedure at two institutions for the treatment of a moderate-to-severe hallux valgus deformity. The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society score and weight-bearing radiographs of the foot were assessed preoperatively and after a mean duration of follow-up of thirty-four months. Clinical and radiographic outcome was also compared between younger and older patients, with the arbitrarily chosen age of sixty years dividing the two groups. RESULTS: The mean American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society score improved significantly (p < 0.0001) from 53 points preoperatively to 88 points at the time of the most recent follow-up. The mean American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society score for patients who were sixty years of age or less was significantly higher than that for patients who were more than sixty years of age (91 compared with 83 points; p = 0.0057). The mean hallux valgus angle decreased significantly from 35 degrees preoperatively to 9 degrees at the time of the most recent follow-up (p < 0.0001), and the mean intermetatarsal angle decreased significantly from 17 degrees to 8 degrees (p < 0.0001). All osteotomy sites united without dorsiflexion malunion but with a mean first metatarsal shortening of 2.2 mm. CONCLUSIONS: To our knowledge, the present report describes the largest cohort of patients undergoing a modified Ludloff osteotomy for the correction of hallux valgus deformity that has been reported in the literature. Our intermediate-term results demonstrate that the procedure achieves significant correction of moderate-to-severe hallux valgus deformity, significant reduction in forefoot pain, and significant improvement in functional outcome. Patients with an age of sixty years or less appear to have a more favorable outcome.

[The acquired flatfoot: mid-term results of the medial displacement calcaneal-osteotomy with flexor digitorum longus transfer]. / Der erworbene Plattfuss: mittelfristige Ergebnisse der medialisierenden Kalkaneusosteotomie mit Flexor digitorum longus-Sehnentransfer.

AIM: The present retrospective study investigates the mid-term results after medial displacement calcaneal osteotomy combined with flexor digitorum longus transfer for the treatment of acquired flatfoot deformity due to posterior tibial tendon insufficiency at stage II (Johnson and Strom Classification). METHOD: 30 feet in 29 patients (6 male, 23 female) with an average age of 58 years (from 43 to 68 years) had surgery between 1995 and 2001. All feet were examined at an average follow-up of 58.5 months (range 35-97 months) and were evaluated with the American-Orthopaedic-Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Hindfoot-Score. RESULTS: The average AOFAS-Score was 88.8+/-10.7 points (range 48 to 100) at final follow-up. The AOFAS-pain-subscale score was 34+/-6.2 points. At the latest follow-up were 14 feet (47%) painfree, 14 feet (47%) noted mild pain and 2 feet (6%) had daily pain. One foot (3%) had pain due to subluxation of the musculus flexor digitorum longus tendon, in another one pain was caused by a contract Chopart joint (3%). Further complications were painful prominent hardware (17%) and neuralgia of the sural nerve (7%). CONCLUSION: The authors conclude that the combination of the medial calcaneal displacement osteotomy with flexor digitorum longus transfer may provide optimal results in patients with adult acquired flatfoot deformity and posterior tibialis tendon dysfunction.

[The modified Ludloff osteotomy for correction of severe metatarsus primus varus with hallux valgus deformity]. / Die modifizierte Ludloff-Osteotomie zur Korrektur der schweren Spreizfussdeformität mit Hallux valgus-Fehlstellung.

AIM: The present study investigates the clinical and radiological mid-term results of the modified Ludloff osteotomy, a proximal metatarsal osteotomy for surgical correction of severe metatarsus primus varus with hallux valgus deformity. METHOD: 70 feet in 67 patients from 25 to 78 years (average age 56 years) were included in this prospective study. The patients were evaluated with the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) forefoot metatarsophalangeal interphalangeal score, which was used preoperatively and at an average follow-up of 37 +/- 6 months. Weight-bearing foot radiographs were analysed according to AOFAS guidelines and statistical evaluation was made with the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. RESULTS: The average AOFAS score improved significantly (p < 0.0001) from 55.2 +/- 15.2 points preoperatively to 86.6 +/- 15.2 points at follow-up. Preoperatively, all patients complained of pain (20.2 +/- 9.6 points) which had improved significantly (p < 0.0001) at the latest follow-up (37.3 +/- 5.7 points). The average hallux valgus angle (HVA) was 37 +/- 8 degrees preoperatively and improved significantly to 12 +/- 11 degrees at follow-up (p = 0.0001). The intermetatarsal angle (IMA) improved significantly from 18 +/- 2 degrees preoperatively to 8 degrees +/- 4 degrees after 37 +/- 6 months (p = 0.0002). The sesamoid position improved significantly from preoperative to follow-up (p = 0.0003). Radiographic evaluation of the patients indicated that all examined osteotomies had healed after 37 +/- 6 months. CONCLUSION: This prospective investigation at intermediate follow-up using currently available outcome measures suggests that the Ludloff osteotomy is a suitable procedure for the surgical correction of severe metatarsus primus varus (IMA > 15 degrees ) with hallux valgus deformity.

The Weil osteotomy: a seven-year follow-up.

We prospectively evaluated the one- and seven-year results of the Weil osteotomy for the treatment of metatarsalgia with subluxed or dislocated metatarsophalangeal joints in 25 feet of 24 patients. Good to excellent results were achieved in 21 feet (84%) after one year and in 22 (88%) after seven years. The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society score significantly improved from 48 (SD 15) points before surgery to 75 (SD 24) at one year, and 83 (SD 18) at seven years. The procedure significantly reduced pain, diminished isolated plantar callus formation and increased the patient's capacity for walking. Redislocation of the metatarsophalangeal joint was seen in two feet (8%) after one year and in three (12%) after seven years. Although floating toes and restricted movement of the metatarsophalangeal joint may occur, the Weil osteotomy is safe and effective.

[The modified Lapidus arthrodesis]. / Die modifizierte Lapidus-Arthrodese.

For the correction of hallux valgus, as one of the most common deformities of the lower limbs, a modified Lapidus arthrodesis is applied at the base of the hallux. After using a lateral tissue technique with medial capsular reefing, a general arthrodesis of the tarsometatarsal 1 joint is carried out. An unstable hallux is the indication for a classic Lapidus arthrodesis. Before determination of the indication, an exact clinical x-ray examination should be made in the dorsoplanar position as well as laterally standing. Complications associated with the Lapidus arthrodesis are postoperative metatarsalgia and pseudoarthrosis. Advantages of this technique are, for example, a high correction potential and better healing, although the surgical technique and post-operative care are more time consuming than for other methods.

[Stress fractures of the tarsal navicular bone. Causality, diagnosis, therapy, prophylaxis]. / Die Stressfraktur des tarsalen Os naviculare. Ursache - Diagnostik - Therapie - Prophylaxe.

Stress fractures of the tarsal navicular bone are a challenge in diagnosis and therapy. First and foremost you have to think about this fracture. The origin of the injury can be detected in a wrong or too heavy strain of the bone especially in long distance runners and recruits. The MRI is the diagnostic tool of first choice. Therapy of displaced or comminuted fractures as well as pseudarthrosis is best done with surgical procedures like direct screw fixation or interposition of autologous bone depending on the circumstances and the age of injury. Conservative treatment with a plaster of Paris is useful in non-displaced and non-comminuted fractures. Prophylaxis with technical aids and a changing habits is recommended.

[Airlimb. Initial experiences with a new immediate early management prosthesis with individually adjustable air chambers]. / Airlimb. Erste Erfahrungen mit einer neuen Sofort-Frühversorgungsprothese mit einzeln ansteuerbaren Luftkammern.

Amputations of the lower extremity are still a common problem in diabetic feet and peripheral vasculopathies. The presented paper introduces a new device for an easier and faster mobilization of below-the-knee amputees. It is based on a new modular prostheses with individual inflatable air bladders. The compliance rate is higher with this device and it could be used from the day of surgery until the definitive prostheses is made. A biomechanical cadaver study with the prostheses will also be presented.

[Short-term results of modified chevron osteotomy with soft tissue technique and guide wire fixation--a prospective study]. / Kurzfristige Ergebnisse der modifizierten Chevron-Osteotomie mit Weichteiltechnik und Bohrdrahtfixation--eine prospektive Studie.

AIM: A Chevron osteotomy with lateral soft-tissue release was performed at our department in 1993. In 1994 a prospective study to evaluate the temporary Kirschner wire fixation was started. Aim of this prospective study was to analyse the short-term clinical and radiological results with special attention to stability, necroses, and luxation of the first metatarsal head. METHOD: Between February 1994 and October 1995 45 patients (55 feet) were treated with a Chevron osteotomy combined with a lateral soft-tissue release and temporary Kirschner wire fixation. The average follow-up was 33.9 months. All patients were seen and evaluated preoperatively and at a minimum follow-up of 24 months using a standardized questionnaire based on the Hallux metatarsophalangeal interphalangeal Scale (HMIS) of the American Foot and Ankle Society. RESULTS: Results of the survey of patient satisfaction revealed excellent and good results in 83%, fair in 8%, and poor in 9%. The median HMIS at final follow-up was 86.9 pints of 100 points. The average hallux valgus angle correction was 19.8 (from 28.7 to 8.9) and the average first intermetatarsal angel correction was, 8.2 (from 14.4 to 6.2). No avascular necrosis of the first metatarsal head and no loss of correction were noted. In one case a luxation of the metatarsal head was observed. CONCLUSION: Combining the Chevron osteotomy with an excessive lateral soft-tissue release increases the likelihood of instability of the metatarsal head and consecutive loss of correction. The temporary Kirschner wire fixation increases the stability of the Chevron osteotomy and prevents the loss of correction. The disadvantage of this method is, that the wire has to be removed after 6 weeks.

Surgical treatment of chronic lower extremity neuropathic pain.

The current authors retrospectively reviewed 147 lower extremity peripheral nerve procedures in 114 patients (average age, 42 years) with chronic lower extremity neuropathic pain to determine whether surgical treatment based on an empirically derived algorithm could reduce pain and improve function. This algorithm assigns crush, stretch, and chronic transection injuries to treatment with transection and containment. Peripheral nerve stimulation was used in conjunction with transection and containment for patients with more chronic presentations for whom previous transections had been unsuccessful. Patients with adhesive neuralgia underwent revision neurolysis with vein wrapping. Patients with repetitive nerve trauma (overuse) underwent primary or revision neurolysis. Duration of symptoms averaged 37 months, and mechanisms of nerve injury included chronic transection, crush, adhesive neuralgia, stretch, repetitive trauma, and idiopathic etiology. Time to followup averaged 38 months. Pain and dysfunction were ranked from 0 points (no pain or dysfunction) to 10 points (pain prompting request for amputation or functional deficit warranting wheelchair use); preoperative and followup work status were documented. Average pain and dysfunction scores improved: 8.8 to 5.6 points and 7.6 to 5.0 points, respectively. Of the 114 patients, 52 (46%) patients improved their work status, including 35 of 87 (40%) involved in workers' compensation. There were no statistically significant differences in outcome based on mechanism of nerve injury or type of procedure. The consistent average improvement suggests this algorithm assigns the appropriate procedure to a given mechanism of injury.