Outcomes of Tibiotalocalcaneal Arthrodesis vs Talar Body Prosthesis as Treatment of Collapsed Avascular Necrosis of the Talus: A 10- to 13-Year-Follow-up Retrospective Comparative Study.

BACKGROUND: Joint salvage surgeries such as tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis and talar prosthesis are commonly used in the surgical treatment of collapsed avascular necrosis of the talus (AVNT). However, differences in outcomes of these 2 surgical treatments are still inconclusive. This study compared the 10- to 13-year outcomes and 10-year survivorship rates of tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis and talar body prosthesis in the surgical treatment of collapsed AVNT. METHODS: A retrospective comparative study was conducted of patients who underwent either tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis or talar body prosthesis implantation between 2005 and 2012. The demographic matching process resulted in 24 patients per treatment group. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using a numeric rating scale (NRS) of 2 hours of activities of daily living (ADL) and Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) for ADL. Radiographic assessments included the incidence of nonunion, adjacent joint arthritis, and prosthesis loosening. The 10-year survivorship of both surgical treatments was calculated. A P value of less than .05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: The median NRS of 2 hours of ADL and FAAM score for ADL were statistically significantly better in the talar body prosthesis group, with P values of .001 and <.001, respectively. The statistically significant differences in FAAM score for ADL exceeded the minimum clinically important difference. In the tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis group, nonunion was observed in 7 of 24 patients (29.2%). No prosthesis loosening was reported in the talar body prosthesis group. The 10-year survivorship was statistically significantly higher in talar body prosthesis than tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis (95.8% vs 70.8%), P = .023. CONCLUSION: Talar body prosthesis implantation in selected eligible patients demonstrated statistically significantly better 10- to 13-year clinical outcomes and higher 10-year survivorship compared with tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis in the surgical treatment of collapsed AVNT. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, retrospective cohort comparative study.

Comparison of Foot Kinematics Between Normal Arch and Flexible Flatfoot Using the Oxford Foot Model: A Matched Case-Control Study.

Background: Symptomatic flexible flatfoot causes alterations in gait, but exactly how this condition affects the intersegmental motion of the foot during the gait cycle remains unclear. Previous studies have examined the kinematics, yielding inconsistent findings. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate how flexible flatfoot deformity, defined as Johnson and Strom classification staging II, affects the intersegmental motion of the foot during fast walking based on a comparison with the matched control group. Methods: Eleven participants with symptomatic flexible flatfoot and 11 healthy matched control participants were recruited using a foot screening protocol incorporated through a foot physical examinations and radiographic measurements. All demographic characteristics exhibited comparable profiles between the groups. During controlled walking, kinematic outcomes pertaining to the hallux, hindfoot, forefoot, and tibia were collected using the multisegmental Oxford Foot Model. Results: All spatiotemporal parameters were comparable between the groups. In comparison to the control group, individuals with symptomatic flexible flatfoot demonstrated increased hallux valgus and plantarflexion, increased forefoot abduction, heightened hindfoot eversion, and internal rotation. Notably, no significant major differences were observed in the tibia motion segment. Further, significant correlations were identified between static foot measurements and the extent of the maximum deviation observed during dynamic kinematic assessments. Conclusion: Compared with age- and gender-matched controls, participants with symptomatic flexible flatfoot exhibited significant gait pattern deviations. A significant correlation also exists between static foot deformity measurements and dynamic kinematic deviations. Collectively, these findings have implications for developing targeted therapeutic interventions to address flexible flatfoot. Level of evidence: Level III, diagnostic study.

A Novel Update on the Management of Müller-Weiss Disease: Presentation of a Treatment Algorithm.

OBJECTIVE: Müller-Weiss disease (MWD) is a challenging condition involving the perinavicular region in the initial stages and subsequently the entire foot in the later stages. The goal of this article is to describe the pathomechanics, clinical evaluation, and nonoperative and operative treatment, including a treatment algorithm, based on current evidence and the combined authors' experience. DESIGN: We review the related articles and summarize the information about this condition. RESULTS: A number of related articles reveal that the treatments should focus on the management of degenerative regions and deformity correction to restore normal foot alignment and provide pain relief. CONCLUSION: This systematic review proposes a treatment algorithm that is comprehensive and practical to apply for the management of MWD.

Biomechanical Comparison of Nonlocked Minimally Invasive and Locked Open Achilles Tendon Simulated Rupture Repairs.

BACKGROUND: Open repair of Achilles tendon ruptures is associated with a risk of infection and other wound complications. Although percutaneous repairs reduce these complications, they may increase the risk of nerve injury. This study was designed to determine whether a percutaneous nonlocking repair can approach the gapping resistance offered by a standard open repair under conditions approximating typical postoperative physiotherapy. METHODS: Ten pairs of cadavers Achilles tendons were transected in situ 5 cm above the insertion. One tendon from each pair was repaired using an open 4-strand Krackow locking loop, and the contralateral tendon was repaired with the Achillon system using the same suture material. Displacement transducers were attached to the medial, lateral, anterior, and posterior aspects of the tendon, spanning the repair. Each tendon underwent 1000 tensile loading cycles to 86.5 N, simulating passive ankle range-of-motion physiotherapy. Gapping was documented on the 1st, 50th, 100th, 500th, and 1000th cycles. The ultimate tensile strength of each repaired tendon was then measured by distracting until gross failure occurred. RESULTS: Gapping of the percutaneous repairs exceeded that of conventional open repairs on the first, 500th, and 1000th load cycles. All 10 conventionally repaired tendons withstood 1000 load cycles without gross failure, but 4 of 10 percutaneous minimally invasive repairs failed, one on the 9th load cycle and the others between the 100th and 500th cycles. On average, tendons repaired with the open technique withstood 66% greater tensile load in failure testing than those repaired with the percutaneous technique. CONCLUSION: Open Krackow Achilles tendon repairs may better withstand more aggressive postoperative physiotherapy than nonlocked percutaneous repairs. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The study suggests that surgeons should consider locking suture approaches to avoid loss of repair integrity with early motion.

Sport and Exercise Activity After Isolated Ankle Arthrodesis for Advanced-Stage Ankle Osteoarthritis: A Single-Center Retrospective Analysis.

Background: Ankle arthrodesis, a recognized operative treatment for advanced-stage ankle osteoarthritis (OA), is recommended when conservative treatment proves unsuccessful. This single-center retrospective analysis examined the change in functional outcomes and the type of sport/exercise activity performed by advanced-stage ankle OA patients after ankle arthrodesis treatment. Methods: A total of 61 advanced-stage ankle OA patients (age, 63.1 ± 12.6 years) who had undergone ankle arthrodesis were included in this single-center retrospective study. The patients had functional outcomes evaluated via American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society Score (AOFAS), Foot Function Index (FFI), Tegner Activity Level Scale (TAS), and High-Activity Arthroplasty Score (HAAS) questionnaires. Clinical status was compared across prearthritic, arthritic, and postarthrodesis periods, and satisfaction with return to sport/exercise activity was recorded. Results: Patients' tarsal sagittal ROM (mean [95% CI]: 22.7 degrees [21.4-24.0]); time to union (15.7 weeks [11.8-19.6]); time to walk without gait aid (14.4 weeks [11.0-17.7]); time to return to work (17.9 weeks [15.1-20.8]); and time to exercise activity (20.6 weeks [17.9-23.4]) were recorded postarthrodesis. Hindfoot alignment angle toward a neutral position (difference: 11.4 degrees [9.2-13.6], P < .001) and functional outcomes (P < .001) significantly improved after arthrodesis surgery; however, only the TAS questionnaire indicated patients returned to their prearthritic activity level (P > .99). Patients generally reported "good" satisfaction with their recovery from ankle arthrodesis surgery, with 64% of patients returning to high-impact-type activity. Conclusion: Advanced-stage ankle OA patients had improved functional outcomes at ~1 year postarthrodesis surgery, enabling the majority of patients to return to high-impact-type activity. Level of Evidence: Level III, retrospective cohort study.

How Adductor Hallucis Reattachment Affects Outcomes Following Scarf Osteotomy in Hallux Valgus Correction: A 4- to 8-Year Follow-Up Retrospective Comparative Study.

This study observed the differences between 2 adductor hallucis release techniques (nonreattachment vs reattachment) in 4- to 8-year follow-up outcomes of scarf osteotomy combined with distal soft tissue release (DSTR) in moderate to severe hallux valgus correction. A retrospective review of moderate to severe hallux valgus patients treated with scarf osteotomy with DSTR was conducted. The patients were divided into 2 groups based on adductor hallucis release techniques (without and with reattachment to the metatarsophalangeal joint capsule). The demographic-matching process divided the samples into 27 patients per group. A comparison of last follow-up of clinical foot ankle ability measure (FAAM) for activity of daily living (ADL) and numerical rating scale for pain during 2 hours of ADL and radiographic outcomes (hallux valgus angle (HVA) and intermetatarsal angle (IMA) was analyzed. A p < .05 was considered a statistically significant difference. The final follow-up of FAAM for ADL was statistically better in the reattachment group as the median was 79.0 (IQR = 4.00) versus 76.0 (IQR = 4.00), p = .047. However, this difference did not achieve minimal clinical importance difference (MCID). The last follow-up of IMA was also statistically better in the reattachment group as the mean was 7.67 (SD = 3.10) versus 10.5 (SD = 3.59), p = .003. DSTR with adductor hallucis reattachment has statistically better IMA correction and maintenance than nonreattachment for moderate to severe hallux valgus correction using scarf osteotomy at 4- to 8-years follow-up. However, the better clinical outcomes did not achieve MCID.

Effect of Age and BMI on Sonographic Findings of Plantar Fascia.

Biomechanical dysfunction of the foot is most common cause of plantar fascia disorder and obesity and increasing age are well-known risk factors. Due to being inexpensive and quick, ultrasound imaging techniques are considered the modality of choice to assess plantar fascia. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of age and body mass index (BMI) on sonographic findings of plantar fascia in normal population. Ultrasonography was used to measure the plantar fascia thickness of 148 healthy adults (54 males, 36.5% and 94 females, 63.5%) during a period of one year. The age, BMI, and walking distance of each participant were recorded and statistically analyzed. The mean plantar fascia thicknesses at 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 cm distal to the insertion of the plantar fascia were 1.76 ± 0.32 mm, 2.50 ± 0.50 mm and 2.11 ± 0.41 mm respectively. The mean plantar fascia thickness for individuals ≥45 years and BMI ≥25 were significantly higher (p < .001) compared to individuals <45 years and BMI <25. In a normal population, the thickness of the plantar fascia determined by ultrasound measurement was less than 3 mm. We recommend using the position 1.0 cm distal to the calcaneal insertion of the plantar fascia as the reference point for diagnosing plantar fasciitis. The thickness of plantar fascia was significantly increased with age and BMI whereas gender, walking activity, exercise and running did not seem to affect the plantar fascia thickness.

The talar body prosthesis treated end-stage ankle arthritis with talar body deficient: a 6-13 years of follow-up outcomes and 6-year survivorship.

INTRODUCTION: Talar body deficient provides a unique challenge for ankle arthritis treatment. We studied the clinical-radiographic outcomes at 6 to 13 years and 6 year prosthesis survivorship of patients treated for ankle arthritis with poor talar body bone stock using a talar body prosthesis (TBP). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between 2008 and 2015, we treated 32 consecutive end-stage ankle arthritis patients with talar body deficiency by TBP implantation and fascia interposition. One patient was excluded with a diagnosis of inflammatory arthritis. We assessed visual analogue scale (VAS) of ankle pain, sagittal range of motion, American Orthopaedics Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot score, Foot Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) of activity daily living (ADL), prosthesis tibiotalar surface angle, radiographic prosthesis loosening, adjacent joint arthritis and complication. Pre-operative to last follow-up outcomes (at 6-13 years) were compared. Prosthesis survivorship was analyzed at 6 year follow-up. p < 0.05 was considered a significant difference. RESULTS: There was statistically significant improvement of median VAS ankle pain, as 8.0 (IQR 1.0) to 1.0 (IQR 2.0), AOFAS ankle-hindfoot score from 48 (IQR 21) to 80 (IQR 7.0), FAAM of ADL from50.0 (28.0) to 88.0 (IQR 15.0), and sagittal ROM from 20o (IQR 19°) to 33° (IQR 14°), p < 0.05. The median tibiotalar surface angle was statistically significant improved from 85.0° (IQR 8.0°) to 89.0° (IQR 3.0°), p < 0.001. No radiographic prosthesis loosening or adjacent talonavicular-calcaneocuboid joint arthritis. The 6 year prosthesis survivorship was 93.5% (95% CI 84.9-100.0%). End of survivorship was observed in 2 patients due to progressive valgus tilting at 16° and 18°, respectively. No prosthesis was revised. CONCLUSIONS: TBP implantation with fascia replacing the articular end of distal tibia provided significant better pre- to post-operative clinical outcomes and had 6 year survivorship as 93.5% for the treatment of ankle arthritis with talar body deficient. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

Minimal invasive surgery in the management of intra-articular calcaneal fractures: A retrospective comparison of screw fixation alone versus screw with small locking plate fixation techniques.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to compare clinical and radiological outcomes of screw fixation alone versus screw with small locking plate fixation techniques in the management of intra-articular calcaneal fractures by minimal invasive surgery. METHODS: A total of 42 patients treated with minimally invasive surgery because of an intra-articular calcaneal fracture were retrospectively reviewed and included in the study. The patient were then divided into two groups based on the implemented surgical technique: Group A, 20 patients (16 male, 4 female; mean age = 43.41 ± 15.50) receiving screw fixation alone and group B, 22 patients (17 male, 5 female; mean age = 43.38 ± 14.00) receiving screw with small locking plate fixation. The radiographic assessment included Bohler's, Gissane, joint line parallel, and calcaneal varus angles at immediate post-operative and 2-year follow up period through the calcaneal axial and lateral foot radiographs. RESULTS: There was a significant increase in joint line parallel angle from post-operative period to 2-year follow up in Group A compared to Group B, mean (SD) 3.27 (2.15) degrees versus (vs) 0.44 (3.00) degrees, P = 0.025. No statistical significant difference of the immediate, 2-year post-operative period and the change in Bohler's-Gissane angle, calcaneal varus, and FAAM of ADL between groups were observed, P > 0.05. For time-point comparisons in each group, there was a significant loss of calcaneal varus and increase in joint line parallel angle from post-operative period to 2-year follow up in Group A, from mean (SD) 1.82 (11.22) to 4.41 (9.73) degrees and 4.09 (5.32) to 7.36 (5.24) degrees, P = 0.047 and <0.0001, respectively. Group A had statistical significant less complications as zero vs 5, P = 0.049. CONCLUSION: The screw fixation alone seems to provide inferior stability of posterior facet fixation and calcaneal varus reduction with lower complication rates compared to screw with small-locking plate fixation. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, Therapeutic Study.

Müller-Weiss Disease: The Descriptive Factors of Failure Conservative Treatment.

BACKGROUND: Conservative treatment is the first-line approach for Müller-Weiss disease (MWD). However, factors associated with the failure of conservative treatment have never been reported. Our objectives were to compare the differences in demographic and radiographic parameters between "successful" and "failure" conservative treatment in patients with MWD and identify descriptive factors associated with failure conservative treatment. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed 68 patients with MWD divided into 29 "failure" and 39 "successful" conservative treatment groups. Demographic characteristics, Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS), visual analog scale (VAS) scores for pain and walking disability, and radiographic parameters such as calcaneal pitch, lateral Meary, anteroposterior (AP) Meary angle, and talonavicular-naviculocuneiform arthritis were compared. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify descriptive factors of failure conservative treatment. A P value <.05 was considered a statistically significant difference. RESULTS: We found more severe VAS pain and walking disability scores and FAOS for the pain, activities of daily living, and quality of life subscales in the failure group (P < .05). Regression analysis demonstrated 2 significant descriptive factors associated with failure conservative treatment: abducted AP Meary angle >13.0 degrees and radiographic talonavicular arthritis. No demographic characteristics were found to be associated with failure conservative treatment. CONCLUSION: Midfoot abduction (AP Meary angle, >13 degrees) and radiographic talonavicular arthritis were factors associated with failure conservative treatment in MWD and should be determined concurrently with the clinical severity. Classification systems for MWD should include these factors. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, retrospective comparative study.

Local Ketorolac Injection vs Popliteal Sciatic Nerve Blockade as an Adjuvant to a Spinal Block in Hindfoot Arthrodesis.

BACKGROUND: Popliteal nerve blocks reduce pain and markedly improve postoperative outcomes during foot and ankle surgery; however, several potential complications may arise from nerve block procedures. The purpose of this study was to investigate local infiltration analgesia with ketorolac as a convenient alternative for pain relief. METHODS: A total of 80 patients scheduled for hindfoot arthrodesis were randomly allocated to one of 2 anesthetic groups: a spinal block augmented with either a popliteal nerve block (n = 40) or local ketorolac and Marcaine infiltration (n = 40). Clinical assessment included postoperative visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores at 4, 8, 12, 24, and 48 hours, total morphine consumption, time to incision (time in operating room to incision), operative time, length of hospital stay, and complications. RESULTS: Despite similar morphine consumption between groups (P = .28), VAS scores were significantly lower at 24 hours (1.6 ± 2.2 cm vs 2.7 ± 3.0 cm, P = .01) and 48 hours (0.2 ± 0.7 cm vs 1.0 ± 1.5 cm, P < .01) after surgery using local ketorolac injection. Although time from entry into the operating room to incision was also reduced after local ketorolac injection (19.0 ± 5.3 minutes vs 31.4 ± 14.6 minutes, P < .001), the length of operative time (P = .38), hospital stay (P = .43), and number of complications (P = .24) were similar between groups. CONCLUSION: Ketorolac local injection provided effective pain control in hindfoot arthrodesis and markedly reduced VAS pain scores up to 48 hours after surgery compared with popliteal nerve block. In addition, ketorolac local injection also reduced time in the operating room compared with popliteal nerve blockade. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level 1, randomized controlled trial.

Three-dimensional printed, proximal phalangeal prosthesis with metatarsophalangeal joint arthroplasty for the treatment of a giant cell tumor of the fifth toe: The first case report.

INTRODUCTION: The majority of patients with bone sarcoma or an aggressive benign tumor of the toe can be successfully treated by amputation. However, limb-salvage surgery for toe tumors remains challenging. PRESENTATION OF CASE: A 26-year-old female presented with an enlarging mass on her right 5th toe. Imaging studies revealed an expansile osteolytic, destructive lesion of the proximal phalanx of the 5th toe with metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint invasion. A biopsy specimen confirmed a grade 1, giant cell tumor of the bone. An en bloc resection of the proximal phalanx was performed, and the defect was reconstructed with a patient-matched, three-dimensional, printed titanium proximal phalanx endoprosthesis with an MTP joint extension. The postoperative course was uneventful. The patient has walked with full weight-bearing since early postoperatively. No local recurrence or metastases were evident. However, scar formation occurred after two years, causing an overriding toe deformity. DISCUSSION: This case represents the first use of a toe prosthesis with MTP joint reconstruction. The complex MTP structure with a preserved metatarsal head facilitates the effort to mimic normal weight-bearing. CONCLUSION: A three-dimensional printed prosthesis of the 5th toe is a viable alternative to a bone graft or amputation. However, to avoid stiffness and complications, further study is needed to improve the prosthesis design.

Müller-Weiss Disease: Three- to Eight-Year Follow-Up Outcomes of Isolated Talonavicular Arthrodesis.

Numerous surgical techniques for the treatment of Müller-Weiss disease (MWD) have been reported. However, no extensive clinical and radiographic studies of isolated talonavicular arthrodesis and MWD have been reported. The present retrospective cohort study examined the outcomes of isolated talonavicular arthrodesis at 3 to 8 years of follow-up in 16 MWD patients with a collapsed longitudinal arch and at least Maceira stage III. Demographic data, pre- and postoperative visual analog scale (VAS) scores for pain on walking and walking disability, foot and ankle outcome scores (FAOSs), and radiographic parameters were analyzed, with statistical significance at p < .05. A survival analysis was used to determine the median time to union. The mean ± standard deviation pre- and postoperative VAS scores for pain on walking were 7.69 ± 1.62 and 2.19 ± 1.52 and the walking disability scores were 7.06 ± 2.11 and 2.31 ± 1.92, respectively. The pre- and postoperative FAOSs were 48.07 ± 21.50 and 82.27 ± 13.86 for activities of daily living, 30.86 ± 19.70 and 76.17 ± 22.39 for quality of life, and 20.93 ± 22.89 and 51.88 ± 23.66 for sports/recreation, respectively. The median pre- and postoperative FAOSs for the symptoms subscale were 73.22 (range 42.88 to 100.00) and 87.50 (35.71 to 100.00) and for pain were 34.72 (range 8.33 to 72.22) and 88.89 (54.41 to 100.00), respectively. Significant improvements occurred from preoperatively to postoperatively for VAS scores and FAOSs (p < .05). The mean pre- and postoperative calcaneal pitch angles were 11.31° ± 4.35° and 13.81o ± 5.60o, significant improvement (p = .016). Improvement was also seen midfoot abduction, with a mean pre- and postoperative anteroposterior Meary's angle of 14.38° ± 10.07° and 9.38° ± 12.21°. The survival analysis showed union was achieved in all patients, with a median time to union of 2 (95% confidence interval 1.03 to 3.00) months. Our data indicate that talonavicular arthrodesis provides satisfactory functional outcomes for MWD patients with a collapsed longitudinal arch.

Appropriate Area for Operative Procedures Near Tibialis Anterior Tendon Insertion: A Cadaveric Study.

BACKGROUND: The tibialis anterior tendon has its insertion sites on both the medial and plantar surfaces of the medial cuneiform and the base of the first metatarsal. Operative procedures near those areas, especially at the first metatarsocuneiform joint, may disturb tendon insertions and cause irritation or functional impairment of the tendon. METHODS: Tibialis anterior tendons and their insertion sites were dissected and examined from 46 cadaveric feet (19 female and 27 male cadavers, aged between 33 and 86 years, with a mean of 68.5 ± 14.3 years). The greatest lengths and widths of the tendon attachments on the bony surface of the medial cuneiform and base of the first metatarsal, on both the medial and plantar surfaces, were measured and analyzed. The measurement reliability was evaluated by using the intraclass correlation coefficient. RESULTS: Most of the tibialis anterior tendon insertions were found to be longer at the medial cuneiform than at the base of the first metatarsal (mean, 8.3 and 5.4 mm; P < .001), but the widths were almost similar (mean, 11.0 and 10.4 mm; P = .079). When focusing on each bone, the widths of the tendon attachments on the medial and plantar surfaces of the medial cuneiform were equivalent (mean, 5.4 and 5.6 mm; P = .584). At the base of the first metatarsal, the tendon attachment on the plantar surface was found to be wider than on the medial surface (mean, 7.0 and 3.4 mm; P < .001). CONCLUSION: The widths of the tibialis anterior tendon insertions on the medial and plantar surfaces of the medial cuneiform were equal, as were the total widths of insertions on the medial cuneiform and on the base of the first metatarsal. However, the width of insertions on the medial surface of the first metatarsal was significantly smaller than on the plantar surface, and the total length of insertions at the medial cuneiform was longer than at the first metatarsal. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This study provides information about characteristics of the tibialis anterior tendon insertions, particularly details of the dimensions on each surface of the bones. This knowledge enables surgeons to minimize the risk of irritation or tendon injuries during operations near the base of the first metatarsal and medial cuneiform area.

How to harvest the greatest length of tibialis posterior tendon for tendon transfer: A cadaveric study.

In anterior transfer of the tibialis posterior tendon, the tendon was harvested using two incisions, the first at its attachment point on the navicular bone and second on the medial side of the leg above the medial malleolus. To provide the maximum tendon length, the second incision needs to be as proximal as possible but injury to the muscle origin must be avoided. The purpose of this study is to establish the location of the second incision that yields the greatest tendon length. Forty-five unpaired embalmed cadaveric legs were dissected. Demographic data, gender, age, and side of specimen were recorded. The distance between the tip of the medial malleolus and the muscle origin was measured. Mobile tendon length, muscle origin, foot length, tibial length, and position of ankle were also noted. The mean mobile tendon length was 11.1 (range 10.7-11.4) cm and the distance between the tip of the medial malleolus and the muscle origin was 6.8 (range 6.5-7.0) cm. The mean foot length was 22.2 cm (range 21.7-22.7), tibial length was 31.5 cm (range 30.8-32.2), and muscle origin was 23.7 cm (range 21.0-26.3). The mean angle position was 46 degrees plantar flexion (range 43-49). In subgroup analysis by gender, the mobile tendon length, distance between the tip of the medial malleolus and the muscle origin, and tibial length, were significantly greater in males than females. In conclusion, for anterior transfer of the tibialis posterior tendon, an incision 7.1 cm above the medial malleolus in the male and 6.4 cm above it in the female provides the longest mobile tendon without injury to its origin. Clin. Anat. 30:1083-1086, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: V, Cadaveric descriptive study.

Benefit of Adding Fibular Osteotomy to Open-Wedge, Valgus, Distal Tibial Osteotomy for Correcting Varus Ankle Arthritis: An In Vitro Study.

Early-stage varus ankle arthritis can usually be treated with a medial, open-wedge, valgus, distal tibial osteotomy; however, the value of adding a fibular osteotomy has been debated. We sought to determine the increase in the maximum medial osteotomy gap and correction angle provided by fibular osteotomy. In 3 sequential experiments on 12 fresh cadaveric legs, we first performed a medial open-wedge, valgus, distal tibial osteotomy alone. Second, we added a transverse fibular osteotomy. Finally, we added a blocked fibular osteotomy. In each experiment, we measured the maximum corrected osteotomy gap and the maximum correction angle. Correction was defined as the absence of lateral cortex diastasis and talocrural joint incongruity. The mean ± standard deviation maximum osteotomy gaps and correction angles were 8.40 ± 1.6 mm and 10.70° ± 3.3° for the tibial osteotomy alone, 15.70 ± 4.6 mm and 20.20° ± 5.6° for the tibial plus transverse fibular osteotomy, and 16.67 ± 3.7 mm and 20.56° ± 4.6° for the tibial plus transverse plus blocked fibular osteotomies, respectively. The corresponding median maximum correction angles were 10° (range 8° to 18°), 19.5° (range 14° to 30°), and 20° (range 14° to 28°). The osteotomy gap and correction angle in the distal tibial and transverse fibular osteotomy were significantly greater than those in the distal tibial osteotomy alone (p < .001 for both) but not in the distal tibial and blocked fibular osteotomy (p = .62 for the gap and p = .88 for the correction angle). Our data support the clinical use of adjunct transverse fibular osteotomies. The blocked fibular osteotomy provided no additional benefit.

Is the Arthroscopic Transillumination Test Effective in Localizing the Superficial Peroneal Nerve?

PURPOSE: To evaluate the transillumination test in showing the position of the superficial peroneal nerve (SPN) to quantify the effectiveness of this test. METHODS: Prospectively, we selected 53 ankle arthroscopy patients (71 patients were excluded because of the invisible SPN). Demographic data including gender, weight, height, and body mass index were recorded. The intraoperative transillumination test was performed during portal establishment and recorded as positive if the SPN was visible via transillumination. The data were analyzed as mean, standard deviation, and percentage. Wilson's method was used as 95% confidence interval for proportion of the positive transillumination test. RESULTS: The intraoperative transillumination test was positive in 0 of 53 patients (0%) with 95% confidence interval ranging from 0% to 6.7%. CONCLUSIONS: The transillumination test has no value for showing the SPN. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level II, prospective diagnostic study.

Frequency and Characteristics of Extensor Hallucis Capsularis: A Cadaveric Study.

Background: Extensor hallucis capsularis is an accessory extensor tendon that is sporadically observed at the medial side of the extensor hallucis longus tendon. Knowledge regarding frequency of occurrence and size of the tendon may help surgeons decide whether to use this tendon or not when tendon graft is needed during foot surgery. Conclusion: Extensor hallucis capsularis tendon was found in the vast majority of cadavers evaluated in this study. Most originated from the extensor hallucis longus tendon and inserted into the first metatarsophalangeal joint capsule. Application of this tendon as a tendon graft should be carefully considered due to variations of the length and the narrow width which may limited strength of this tendon graft. Objective: To evaluate the frequency, size, origin, and insertion of the extensor hallucis capsularis tendon in cadaveric study subjects. Material and Method: Extensor hallucis capsularis tendon was examined via dissection of 55 cadaveric feet. Thirty-six male and 19 female cadavers were included, with an age range of 33 to 90 years (mean 67.3±14.0). One foot from each study subject was dissected and evaluated (29 left feet and 26 right feet). Demographic data (gender, age, and height) and outcome data (frequency, origin, insertion, length, and width of the tendon) were recorded. Tendon measurement reliability was evaluated by intraclass correlation coefficient. Results: Extensor hallucis capsularis tendon was found in 90.9% of cadaveric subjects. Mean tendon length and width was 11.3±4.0 cm and 1.6±0.6 mm, respectively. Most tendons branched from the extensor hallucis longus tendon and attached to the first metatarsophalangeal joint capsule. Conclusion: Extensor hallucis capsularis tendon was found in the vast majority of cadavers evaluated in this study. Most originated from the extensor hallucis longus tendon and inserted into the first metatarsophalangeal joint capsule. Application of this tendon as a tendon graft should be carefully considered due to variations of the length and the narrow width which may limited strength of this tendon graft.

Relationship of the dorsalis pedis artery to the tarsal navicular.

When undertaking surgical maneuvers about the midfoot, caution must be used to avoid injury to the dorsalis pedis artery, which courses along the dorsum of the foot on the dorsolateral aspect of the tarsal navicular. In an effort to better understand the relationship of the course of the dorsalis pedis artery relative to the tarsal navicular, 128 embalmed feet (31 [48.4%] female and 33 [51.6%] male cadavers aged 15 to 91 years) were measured. The dorsalis pedis artery was dissected from its origin to its termination (i.e., the first dorsal metatarsal artery and the deep plantar perforating artery), and the distance from the medial cortex of the navicular tuberosity to the medial margin of the artery and the location of the artery as a percentage of the medial-to-lateral width of the navicular were measured. In the male cadaver specimens, the distance from the navicular tuberosity to the dorsalis pedis was 23.75 ± 3.1 mm, the width of the navicular was 37.41 ± 5.0 mm, and the location of the artery as a percentage of the width of the navicular was 64.34% ± 13.1%. In the female cadaver specimens, the distance from the navicular tuberosity to the dorsalis pedis was 22.81 ± 5.5 mm, the width of the navicular was 36.11 ± 4.0 mm, and the location of the artery as a percentage of the width of the navicular was 63.29% ± 9.9%. For the right foot specimens, the distance from the navicular tuberosity to the dorsalis pedis artery was 20.29 ± 3.3 mm, and the width of the navicular was 37.21 ± 4.4 mm. For the left foot specimens, the distance from the navicular tuberosity to the dorsalis pedis was 21.40 ± 2.5 mm, and the width of the navicular was 35.92 ± 4.4 mm. The statistical comparisons between the males and females showed no statistically significant differences. In contrast, those between the right and left feet showed significant differences in the distance from the navicular tuberosity to the dorsalis pedis artery and the location of the dorsalis pedis artery as a percentage of the width of the navicular. Knowledge of these distances and the location of the dorsalis pedis artery relative to the width of the tarsal navicular should aid surgeons in preparation for, and during, dissection of the midfoot.

Success rates of first-line antibiotics for culture-negative sub-acute and chronic septic arthritis.

A combination of surgical and medical treatment is normally required for patients with septic arthritis. Antibiotics selected for use on these patients are normally based on tissue culture results. However, in sub-acute and chronic septic arthritis cases, the results of the culture are usually negative as a result of prior treatment. The present study will investigate the incidence of culture-negative septic arthritis and the outcomes based on the use of first-line drug antibiotics for the treatment of sub-acute and chronic septic arthritis. For the present study, the authors retrospectively reviewed medical records of surgically treated septic arthritis cases over the past 10 years at Siriraj Hospital. The patient culture results, the antibiotics used, and the results of treatment were all recorded and analyzed. One hundredfifty-three septic arthritis patients were reviewed. Sixty-two patients were classified as having been diagnosed with either sub-acute or chronic septic arthritis. Thirty-six of 62 patients (58.1%) had a negative culture result. In the culture-positive patients, 42.3% had Streptococcus, 26.9% had Staphylococcus aureus, 11.5% had other gram positive bacteria, 15.4% had gram-negative bacteria, and 3.8% had tuberculus infection. In the culture-negative sub-acute and chronic group (36 of 62), 23 patients received Cefazolin, nine patients received Cloxacillin, and four patients received Clindamycin. Successful results were 69.9%, 66.7% and 75%, respectively. The present study reflects that the incidence ofculture-negative, sub-acute and chronic septic arthritis is approximately 58.1%. The first-line class of antibiotics remains the appropriate antibiotic choice for these patients because they are still effective for treatment of septic arthritis in up to 70% of all cases.