Foot pressure and radiographic outcome measures of lateral column lengthening for pes planovalgus deformity.

The purpose of this study was to establish and characterize the relationship between foot pressure analysis and radiographic measurements in children that underwent a lateral column lengthening procedure for pes planovalgus (PPV). Eight children (13 feet) with PPV that had failed non-operative treatment underwent a lateral column lengthening procedure. Pre-operative and post-operative standing AP and lateral radiographs and foot pressure data were obtained. The relationships between the radiographic and foot pressure measurements were investigated. The findings from this study demonstrated strong relationships between these parameters. The relationships seen in this study indicate that the addition of foot pressure analysis provides objective documentation of the improvement in foot pressure distribution following a lateral column lengthening. Also, there is a direct, positive relationship between the key radiographic and foot pressure measurements.

Ciprofloxacin, lomefloxacin, or levofloxacin as treatment for chronic osteomyelitis.

The efficacy and safety of three oral fluoroquinolones (lomefloxacin, levofloxacin, and ciprofloxacin) for the treatment of chronic osteomyelitis were analyzed. Twenty-seven patients had documented infections with quinolone-sensitive organisms and received either lomefloxacin, levofloxacin, or ciprofloxacin. Levofloxacin was effective therapy for 9 of 15 (60%) patients. Lomefloxacin was effective therapy for five of seven (71%) patients, and ciprofloxacin was effective therapy for two of five patients (40%). Average follow-up was 11.8 months for patients who completed the course of therapy, and the average duration of therapy was 60.6 days. Gram-positive bacteria were isolated from 18 patients, and 11 patients were cured. Oral fluoroquinolones can be safe, effective therapy if they are given for a prolonged course as treatment for infections caused by susceptible gram-positive as well as gram-negative organisms and in combination with adequate surgical debridement.