Comparative analysis of arthroscopic debridement in osseous versus soft tissue anterior ankle impingement

BackgroundArthroscopic debridement has been a gold standard procedure for anterior ankle impingement, both in cases of osseous and soft tissue impingement. There is sparse literature on comparative outcome with respect to functional results between the two types of impingement post-arthroscopic debridement.MethodsOur study included 14 patients diagnosed as cases of anterior ankle impingement on the basis of clinical and radiological examination. They were segregated into two groups (on the basis of cause of impingement (osseous versus soft tissue)). Both groups were treated by arthroscopic debridement. Primary outcome was patient satisfaction, which was assessed by Likert scale and clinical outcomes were measured using AOFAS ankle-hind foot scale, VAS score, range of motion and time to return to pre-injury activity level in both groups.ResultsMean follow-up was of 15 months where eleven patients reported an excellent recovery, two patients had good recovery while one patient reported poor outcome. Mean AOFAS ankle hind foot scale improved from 50.5 preoperatively to 85.71 postoperatively (statistically significant; p value – 0.0001). Mean Likert scale value post-operative was 4.21. VAS score showed significant improvement in patients of both the groups. Range of motion was slightly better in soft tissue impingement type with a relatively shorter time to return to sports or preinjury activity level as compared to osseous impingement group.ConclusionsThe patients in both the groups had comparable outcomes with no statistically significant difference with regard to patient satisfaction and clinical outcome.     

Surgical Correction of Haglund's Triad Using a Central Tendon-Splitting Approach: A Retrospective Outcomes Study

We evaluated the surgical outcomes of Haglund's triad using a central tendon-splitting approach, with Achilles tendon partial detachment and debridement, excision of the retrocalcaneal bursa, resection of Haglund's prominence, and reattachment of the Achilles tendon. The medical records of 22 patients (22 heels) who had undergone surgical correction of Haglund's triad from January 2010 to December 2015 were reviewed retrospectively. The visual analog scale pain score, American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle-Hindfoot scale score, and 36-item Short-Form Health Survey physical and mental component scores were prospectively collected preoperatively, 6 months postoperatively, and at the last visit. The scores of a subjective question involving satisfaction were prospectively collected at the last visit. Possible risk factors were also evaluated. We reviewed the data from 12 females and 10 males, with the mean age of 59.2 ± 7.3 years and a mean follow-up duration of 15.1 ± 4.6 months. Significant improvement was found in the mean visual analog scale pain score, average American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society Ankle-Hindfoot scale score, and 36-item Short-Form Health Survey physical component scale score. The overall satisfaction rate was 77.3% (17 of 22). Postoperative complications included 2 cases of delayed wound healing and 1 case of sensation loss over the heel wound. No Achilles tendon rupture or wound infection developed. Gender and body mass index did not affect the surgical outcomes. The surgical technique we used for Haglund's triad provided effective pain relief, function improvement, and overall enhancement of patients' health condition. More research is required to further evaluate the outcomes of our surgical approach to treat Haglund's triad and the possible risk factors.     

Endoscopic reconstruction for chronic Achilles tendon ruptures using a hamstring tendon autograft

BackgroundTo determine the safety and efficacy of endoscopic reconstruction of chronic Achilles tendon ruptures using a hamstring tendon autograft at mid-term follow-up.MethodsWe reviewed the medical records of patients with chronic Achilles tendon rupture treated surgically by endoscopic reconstruction using a hamstring tendon autograft at our institution between March 2010 and October 2015. Radiologic outcomes were assessed using pre- and postoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Functional outcomes were evaluated with the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle–Hindfoot Scale, the Plantar Flexion Strength (PFS), the Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment-Achilles (VISA-A) scale, the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) pain score, and the Arner-Lindholm standard. All patients achieved primary healing with no lengthening of the Achilles tendon, skin necrosis, infection, deep vein thrombosis or other complications.ResultsMean follow-up period was 15 ± 3 months (range, 12–18 months). There was no Achilles tendon re-rupture. MRI examination revealed that Achilles tendon continuity was restored. Patients’ mean AOFAS, PFS, and VISA-A scores were significantly higher and mean VAS pain score was significantly lower after surgery compared to before (P < 0.05). According to Arner-Lindholm standards, there were twenty (76.9%) excellent, six (23.1%) good, and zero bad outcomes.ConclusionEndoscopic reconstruction utilizing a hamstring tendon autograft is a safe and efficacious option for repair of chronic Achilles tendon ruptures. Studies with larger sample sizes and a longer follow-up are required to confirm the advantage of this technique compared to open surgery.     

Decompressive Medial Cuneiform Exostectomy for Resistant Tibialis Anterior Insertional Tendinopathy

Distal tibialis anterior tendinopathy, as a clinical entity, has only recently been documented in foot and ankle studies. We report our experience with medial cuneiform decompressive exostectomy and superficial tendon debridement in 14 cases of recalcitrant tibilalis anterior insertional pain. We reviewed 13 patients (14 feet; 12 females, 1 male; mean age 67.9 ± 7.5; range 55 to 80 years) in whom conservative treatment had failed who had undergone debridement of the insertional tibialis anterior tendon and decompressive exostectomy of the medial cuneiform. Pre- and postoperative American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) midfoot scale and visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores, local clinical findings, and dorsiflexion power at an average follow-up period of 28?±?17.9 (range 6 to 55) months were assessed. All patients had experienced burning, nocturnal, medial midfoot pain and disability. The symptom longevity preoperatively was 8.5?±?3.1 (range 6 to 17) months. Peritendinous or intrasubstance signal changes were noted on magnetic resonance imaging in 10 feet (71%). The mean preoperative VAS pain score was 8.7?±?1.3 (range 5 to10), whereas postoperative it was 0.4?±?0.5 (range 0 to1) (p?=?.001). The mean preoperative and postoperative AOFAS midfoot scale score was 54?±?14.5 (range 20 to 70) and 91?±?6.8 (range 79 to 100), respectively (p?=?.001). Postoperative ankle dorsiflexion power was normal and local tenderness had resolved in all patients. One patient (7.1%) stumbled at 2 weeks, resulting in avulsion of the tibialis anterior tendon, requiring transosseous fixation and gastrocnemius recession. All patients reported satisfaction with the surgical outcome and willingness to undergo the surgery again if necessary. A combination of medial cuneiform mechanical decompression and insertional tendon debridement can offer successful outcomes in resistant insertional tibialis anterior tendinopathy.     

内踝解剖型钩钢板治疗粉碎性内踝骨折的疗效分析

目的 评价内踝解剖型钩钢板治疗粉碎性内踝骨折的临床疗效。方法 对2015年3月至2017年6月采用内踝解剖型钩钢板治疗粉碎性内踝骨折的30例病人进行回顾性分析,其中男18例,女12例;年龄为21~50岁,平均34.5岁。受伤原因：扭伤10例,直接暴力骨折20例。左踝12例,右踝18例。30例病人均行切开复位内固定手术,内踝应用解剖型钩钢板固定,合并外踝及后踝骨折的病人,外踝应用解剖钢板固定,后踝应用空心螺钉或钢板固定。采用美国足踝外科医师协会（American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society, AOFAS）踝与后足功能评分系统、踝关节活动度和疼痛视觉模拟评分量表（visual analogue scale, VAS）评价术前及末次随访时病人的踝关节功能。结果 所有30例病人的随访时间为6~18个月,平均13.1个月。术后切口均一期甲级愈合,无感染、皮瓣坏死、骨折移位、内固定松动、骨不愈合等并发症出现。手术前后的AOFAS踝-后足评分分别为（12.0±10.0）分、（90.0±3.1）分,VAS评分分别为（5.4±1.0）分、（1.3±0.3）分,差异均有统计学意义（P均＜0.05）。末次随访时平均踝关节活动度为60.2°±6.2°。结论 采用内踝解剖型钩钢板治疗粉碎性内踝骨折,固定牢固,操作方便,病人术后功能恢复好,是治疗粉碎性内踝骨折有效的固定方法。     

Peroneus longus tendon transfer; prospective study of treatment outcome of recurrent fixed clubfoot deformities in children after failed surgical treatment

BackgroundIn childhood, for flexible clubfoot deformity, the transfer of the tendon of the tibialis anterior muscle is widely used. In contrast, extensive surgical procedures are required for fixed clubfoot deformities.MethodsWe describe the peroneus longus tendon transfer to the peroneus brevis tendon, additionally to full surgical release, in cases of recurrent fixed clubfoot deformities. The purpose of this surgical technique was to restore and maintain the dynamic balance of foot inversion-eversion during the gait cycle by augmenting the muscular strength of the weak peroneus brevis tendon. We report the prospective study of treatment outcome of twenty recurrent fixed clubfoot deformities in twelve children (20 feet) after failed surgical treatment they had. Anteroposterior and lateral radiographs under full-body weight-bearing and the AOFAS score pre-and postoperatively were used in all patients. For the estimation of the severity of the recurrent clubfoot deformity in each child and to increase the credibility of the AOFAS rating scale, we additionally used a clubfoot sheet score preoperatively and postoperatively (maximum score 100 points for normal foot appearance clinically and radiologically).ResultsThe mean age at surgery was 6,85 (±1,81; 5–11) years. The mean follow-up time was 5,4 (±1,7; 2–8) years. The mean AOFAS ankle-hindfoot rating score increased from 69,85 (±9,51; 53–82) points preoperatively to 94,4 (±2,43; 91–97) points postoperatively. The mean clubfoot sheet rating score increased from 43,00 (±12,18; 15–55) points, preoperatively to 90,0 (±4,58; 80–95) points postoperatively. The two-tailed p-value was < 0,0001.ConclusionsThe transfer of the peroneus longus tendon to the peroneus brevis tendon is a minimal surgical procedure that acts collaboratively in maintaining the correction of foot deformity, achieved by the complete surgical release. Level of Evidence: IV.     

Correlation of the AOFAS scores with a generic health QUALY score in foot and ankle surgery

BACKGROUND: The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Score (AOFAS) is one scoring system used to assess and monitor the progress of patients after foot and ankle surgery. The aim of this study was to evaluate the trend of the AOFAS score over a period of time and correlate it with the QUALY score, which is a valid and reliable scoring system. METHODS: All patients undergoing surgery by one foot and ankle surgeon between January, 2001, and July, 2003, were reviewed. The preoperative AOFAS and QUALY and postoperative scores at 3, 6 and 12 months, and yearly were collected prospectively. RESULTS: This study includes 204 operative procedures in 159 patients. The mean age of the patients was 51.9 (range 12 to 89) years. The AOFAS scores increased from a mean of 45.5 preoperatively to 76.5 at 3 months and reached a peak of 81.5 at 6 months and then started to decrease to 79.2 at 12 months. This fall, though seemingly marginal, was significant (p < 0. 01). This trend seems to be consistent for all the procedures. The 6-month AOFAS score was found to have a higher correlation with the final QUALY score (r(2) = 0.423) than the 12-month AOFAS score (r(2) = 0.326). CONCLUSIONS: The AOFAS score has low levels of correlation with the validated generic health QUALY score. Our study suggests that scores collected preoperatively, at 6 and 12 months after surgery, and annually there after may be best. The 3-month score may not be necessary. We recommend that a generic health score such as the QUALY score be used in conjunction with the AOFAS score to reflect outcome.     

Hallux valgus correction with a new percutaneous distal osteotomy: Surgical technique and medium term outcomes

BackgroundMany procedures and different osteotomies have been described for percutaneous hallux valgus correction. Percutaneous techniques may lead to reduced morbidity, surgery, and recovery time. The aim of this study is to evaluate the clinical and radiographic outcome of a new percutaneous procedure (PBS-Percutaneous Bianchi System).MethodsFifty-eight cases were treated with Percutaneous Bianchi System procedure for correction of mild, moderate or severe hallux valgus deformity. All patients were clinically assessed preoperatively and then followed up by weight-bearing x-rays, AOFAS (American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Score), VAS (Visual Analog Scale) pain score, and patient satisfaction.ResultsAOFAS scores improved from 28.6 at the preoperative assessment to 91.7 at the latest follow-up. The VAS pain score improved from 6.7 before surgery to 0.6 at the latest follow-up. The mean Hallux valgus angle (HVA), Intermetatarsal angle (IMA) and Distal metatarsal articular angle (DMAA) significatively decreased from the preoperative assessment to the latest follow-up.ConclusionsThe PBS technique is a safe, reliable, and effective procedure for the correction of symptomatic mild-to-severe hallux valgus.     

Postoperative results of distal tibialis anterior tendinosis

IntroductionAlthough distal tibialis anterior tendinopathy is a common condition, it has rarely been described in literature. It is often a condition in overweight women around 50–70 years old with pain that worsens at night. The purpose of this retrospective study is to describe the specific clinical signs and postoperative results of distal tibialis anterior tendinopathy.Material and methodsBetween 2013 and 2017 we operated 9 patients (10 ft) who failed a conservative treatment of distal tibialis anterior tendinopathy. Surgery consisted of debridement of the diseased tendon and reinsertion with a bone anchor. There was a minimum follow-up of 12 months. All patients were clinically evaluated postoperative (range 14–57 months after surgery) with the use of the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score and Visual Analog Scale (VAS)ResultsThe mean AOFAS score postoperative was 99 (range 94–100). The mean VAS score postoperative was 1 (range 0–3). In all 10 cases the patient was completely satisfied with the result following surgery. There was no recurrence or rupture of tendon after debridement.ConclusionDistal tibialis anterior tendinopathy is mainly a clinical diagnosis where conservative treatment should always be the first choice. However, our results show that when conservative treatment fails, surgical treatment can lead to very good long term results with a high level of patient satisfaction.     

Transfibular ankle arthrodesis with use of sagitally split fibula as a biological plate leads to excellent outcome: A retrospective analysis

BackgroundWe studied ankle arthrodesis with a transfibular approach using sagitally spilitted fibula as a biological plate (onlay grafting) as well as other half of fibula as morcellised local interpositional graft (inlay grafting) to achieve bony union.Material and methodsRetrospective clinico-radiological evaluation of 36 operated cases was done at 3, 6, 12 and 30 months follow-ups. Clinically union was considered once ankle became pain free on full weight bearing. Pain assessment was done by using VAS (visual analogue scale) score and functional evaluation was done by AOFAS (American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society) hind foot score preoperatively and at different follow ups. Radiologically, sagittal plane ankle alignment and fusion status was determined at each follow up.ResultsMean age of patients was 40.36 ± 10.56 years (range 18–55), who were evaluated for mean duration of 33.32 ± 11.25 months (range 24–65). Thirty-three (91.7%) ankles were fused adequately and mean duration to achieve bony union was 5.09 ± 1.3 months (range 4–9 months). Mean post-operative AOFAS score at final follow up was 76.65 ± 4.87 in comparison to 45.76 ± 3.38, preoperatively. VAS score improved significantly from 7.8 (pre-operative) to 2.3 (final follow-up). Non-union in three patients (8.3%) and ankle malalignment in one patient was observed.ConclusionTransfibular ankle arthrodesis achieves excellent bony unions and functional outcomes in severe ankle arthritis. Biologically incompetent fibula that to be judged individually by the operating surgeon to use it as a graft. Patients having inflammatory arthritis have more dissatisfaction than other aetiologies.     

Full thickness open tear of the tendoachilles - Functional outcomes following a stable,single stage repair

ObjectiveOpen injuries of the Tendoachilles present a challenge to the treating surgeon. Although, common in our setting, there is a paucity of literature regarding management of the same. The purpose of this retrospective study was to analyse the functional outcomes following debridement and primary repair of open tears of the Tendoachilles.Materials and methodsPatients with open tears of the tendoachilles, between January 2012 to January 2017. After obtaining demographic data, including mechanism of injury, all patients were managed by adequate debridement and primary repair, by Pennington’s modification of Kessler’s technique in a single sitting, paratenon closed circumferentially, plantaris reinforcement used when end to end repair couldn’t be achieved. Below knee cast for 2 months. Weight bearing started at three months. Statistical analysis using paired t-test for calf circumference, ankle range of motion comparing with uninjured limb. Functional outcome assessment by AOFAS hindfoot score and Achilles tendon rupture score.Results23 male patients, mean age 35, were analysed. Field injury was the most common mechanism, with slip in Indian lavatory pans accounting for four patients. Average time to surgery from injury was 22 hours. Plantaris reinforcement in one case. No case of wound dehiscence, scar adherence, tendon rerupture or infection. One patient had serous discharge at three weeks which settled with oral antibiotics. 21 patients performed single heel raise. There was no significant difference in calf circumference and ankle range of motion compared to uninjured limb. Mean AOFAS score was 92, mean Achilles tendon rupture score 77.ConclusionThough open injuries of the tendoachilles is fraught with complications, early debridement, adequate repair of the tendon edges with circumferential closure of the paratenon, yields adequate functional outcomes with minimal complications.     

Percutaneous fixation of displaced intraarticular fractures of the calcaneus. A retrospective case series study and a review of the literature

PurposeTo evaluate the outcome of displaced intraarticular calcaneal fractures (DIACFs) of a case series of patients who were treated with a percutaneous fixation technique.Materials and methodsEight patients were operated for DIACFs and they were evaluated for the outcome and complications in a mean follow up of 9 months (range: 6 – 12 months). At the last follow up the AOFAS score, the Boehlers’ angle and the presence of any complication were noted. The time from injury to surgery was also reported. The correlation of the AOFAS score and the development of post traumatic subtalar arthritis to the type of fracture, to the post operative Boehler's angle and to the time from injury to surgery were investigated.ResultsThe overall mean AOFAS (Americal Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society) score was 84,625 (Range: 73 – 96). The mean AOFAS score of type II and type III fractures was 87,667 and 75,500 respectively. The mean AOFAS score for fractures with a postoperative Boehler's angle of less than 10° and more or equal to 10° was 76,750 and 92,500 respectively. This difference was found to be statistically significant. The mean AOFAS score for fractures who were treated less or equal to six days and more than six days post injury was 91,250 and 78 respectively. Two out of four patients with a post operative Boehler's angle less than 10° developed post traumatic subtalar arthritis. No patient out of four for whom a Boehler's angle of more than 10° has been achieved, developed subtalar arthritis. No infection occurred in any of the patients.ConclusionPercutaneous fixation is a safe and effective way of treating DIACFs. The outcome is directly related to the quality of reduction, which is significantly dependent to the timing of surgery. The earlier the fracture is operated the better the reduction by closed means is.     

Clinical results of distal anterior tibial tendon decompression

BackgroundDistal tibialis anterior tendinopathy (DTAT) is condition which is infrequently described in literature and is usually treated with conservative means. If resistant to a rehabilitation protocol and unloading, a surgical treatment could be proposed. The aim of this research is to report on the history and clinical image of DTAT and present the clinical results of a simple surgical decompression of the tendon with local debridement and release of the distal extensor retinaculum.MethodsSeventeen patients diagnosed with DTAT in 18 feet underwent surgery between 2008 and 2018. Upon initial presentation, all patients reported a persistent history of pain over the tibialis anterior (TA) insertion. Ultrasound was routinely performed to confirm the diagnosis. In patients with confirmed diagnosis of DTAT, persistent despite conservative treatment, we proceeded with surgical intervention during which we released the tendon by opening the distal extensor retinaculum. Retrospective chart review was performed, and functional outcomes were assessed using the AOFAS midfoot score. AOFAS score results were collected postoperatively with at least one-year follow-up.ResultsAll patients experienced pain on palpation of the distal aspect of the TA tendon. Most patients experienced pain at night and were frequent hikers. Our study population consisted of mostly female and overweight patients. All patients reported pain relief with a significant improvement of VAS for pain from 6.7 ± 1.1 preoperatively to 1.1 ± 1.2 postoperatively (p < 0.05). The postoperative AOFAS midfoot score was 97 ± 3.7. Fifteen patients were completely satisfied, two satisfied with minor reservations.ConclusionSimple distal TA tendon release by division of a consistently present constricting distal extensor retinaculum represents a surgical alternative in the treatment of chronic DTAT. Our study shows good clinical outcomes with low complications.Level of EvidenceLevel IV – retrospective case series.     

Comparison between Pin Fixation and Combined Screw Fixation in Proximal Chevron Metatarsal Osteotomy for Hallux Valgus Deformity Correction

BackgroundProblems associated with hallux valgus deformity correction using Kirschner-wire (K-wire) fixation include pin pullout and loss of stability. These complications are pronounced in the osteopenic bone, and few reports have focused on pin versus screw fixation. We examined the use of additional screw fixation to avoid these problems. The aim of this study was to compare outcomes of K-wire fixation (KW) and a combined K-wire and screw fixation (KWS).MethodsTwo groups with hallux valgus deformity, who were treated with a proximal chevron metatarsal osteotomy (PCMO), were compared based on the fixation method used. The KW group included 117 feet of 98 patients, and the KWS group included 56 feet of 40 patients. Clinically, the preoperative and final follow-up visual analog scale (VAS) pain score, American Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) hallux score, and patient satisfaction score were evaluated. Radiographically, hallux valgus angle (HVA) and intermetatarsal angle (IMA) were measured.ResultsThe mean VAS score decreased from 6.3 preoperatively to 1.6 postoperatively in the KW group and from 5.7 preoperatively to 0.5 postoperatively in the KWS group (p < 0.001). The mean AOFAS scores of the KW and KWS groups improved from 59.4 and 58.2, respectively, to 88.9 and 95.3, respectively (p < 0.001). Eighty-five percent in the KW group and 93% in the KWS group were satisfied with surgery. Clinical differences were not significant. The mean HVAs decreased from 34.7° to 9.1° in the KW group and from 38.5° to 9.2° in the KWS group (p < 0.001). The mean IMA decreased from 14.5° (range, 11.8°–17.2°) to 6.4° (range, 2.7°–10.1°) in the KW group and from 18.0° (range, 14.8°–21.2°) to 5.3° (range, 2.5°–8.1°) in the KWS group (p < 0.001). When IMA values at the 3-month postoperative and the final follow-up were compared, the IMA was significantly increased only in the KW group (p < 0.001) and no difference was found in the KWS group (p = 0.280).ConclusionsWe found a statistically significant difference in the decrease in IMA between the 2 groups. We recommend the combined pin and screw fixation in PCMO to enhance fixation stability and prevent potential hallux valgus correction loss.     

Non-irradiated frozen structural allograft in reconstructive surgeries of the hindfoot and midfoot

BackgroundA few studies investigating the use of structural allograft in foot and ankle surgery are available. The purpose of this study is to analyze the clinical, functional and radiological results of patients treated with non-irradiated frozen structural bone allograft.MethodsWe analyzed 20 reconstructive surgeries of the hindfoot and midfoot performed between April 2004 and April 2010. The mean follow up period was 45.4 months. The results were evaluated according to AOFAS score, X-ray (allograft consolidation, alignment preservation, and allograft collapse or re-absorption), and complications.ResultsWe observed a 48-point mean improvement of AOFAS ankle and hindfoot score (17 cases), and a 53-point mean improvement of AOFAS midfoot score (3 cases). The mean bone consolidation time was 75 days. No graft fracture and no cases of non-union were seen.ConclusionThis treatment is a good option to treat severe defects or fill sequelae deformities.     

Percutaneous Zadek osteotomy for the treatment of insertional Achilles tendinopathy

BackgroundInsertional Achilles tendinopathy (IAT) is a challenging common lower extremity disorder, despite several treatment options described in literature. Open dorsal closing wedge calcaneal osteotomy or Zadek Osteotomy (ZO), for the treatment of the IAT has good clinical results but a high rate of postoperative complications. The purpose of this study is to describe percutaneous ZO for the treatment of the IAT and to evaluate its impact on the clinical and functional postoperative outcomes.MethodsTwenty-six consecutive patients presenting with unilateral IAT refractory to nonoperative measures were treated with percutaneous ZO. Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Foot Function Index Score (FFI) were recorded preoperatively and at final follow-up visit (12 ± 3) months. Postoperative complications, satisfaction, and relief of the pain were also recorded.ResultsThe percutaneous ZO showed a significant improvement (p < 0.0001) in preoperative to postoperative FFI (from 65 ± 9 to 8 ± 12) and VAS (from 9 ± 1 to 1 ± 2). Two postoperative complications (8%) were observed: a case of symptomatic non-union and hardware pain, both in healthy patients. The overall rate of satisfaction after surgery was (92%). The relief from pain was achieved after an average period of 12 weeks.ConclusionsZO is a safe and effective procedure for the treatment of IAT. The use of a minimally invasive surgical approach is associated with excellent pain reduction (VAS score) and improved clinical function (FFI score). When compared to the open surgical approach, the percutaneous ZO may decrease recovery time and postoperative complications.Level of evidence: III, retrospective case series.     

Endoscopic bony and soft-tissue decompression of the retrocalcaneal space for the treatment of Haglund deformity and retrocalcaneal bursitis

BACKGROUND: The traditional operative management of Haglund deformity and retrocalcaneal bursitis consists of an open excision of the inflamed bursa, resection of the posterosuperior calcaneal tuberosity, and debridement of the Achilles tendinopathy. In an effort to reduce morbidity and recovery time, an endoscopic technique was used for the management of this condition. METHODS: Thirty consecutive patients (32 heels) who had retrocalcaneal bursitis unrelieved by nonoperative measures were treated with the endoscopic technique. Two portals were created, one laterally and one medially, over the posterosuperior portion of the calcaneus to gain access to the retrocalcaneal space. The inflamed bursal tissue was removed, and the prominent bone was resected. Patients were evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively with the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle-Hindfoot Scale. RESULTS: The mean followup was 35 months. Twenty-eight patients (30 heels) were available for followup. The AOFAS scores averaged 62 preoperatively and 97 postoperatively. There were 26 excellent results, three good results and one poor result. One major and one minor complication occurred: an Achilles tendon rupture three weeks after surgery and residual pain and swelling that required reoperation through an open procedure. There were no wound complications or postoperative infections. CONCLUSIONS: The endoscopic technique can be done outpatient and has a low morbidity and high patient satisfaction. The time to return to normal activity level is short. Sufficient exposure of the Achilles tendon and removal of the calcaneal prominence and retrocalcaneal bursa can be done effectively using an endoscopic technique.     

关节镜监视下踝关节植骨融合术的疗效分析

目的：探讨关节镜辅助下踝关节清理、植骨融合术的手术方法和临床疗效。方法：2001年1月至2009年5月,采用关节镜辅助踝关节植骨融合术治疗踝关节病变25例,男18例,女7例;年龄32～70岁,平均47.5岁;左踝10例,右踝15例;其中创伤后骨关节炎13例,地方性大骨节病10例,类风湿性关节炎2例。手术前后采用疼痛视觉模拟评分（VAS）对踝关节疼痛进行评定,根据美国足踝关节协会评分系统（AOFAS）从疼痛、自主活动、最大步行距离、地面步行、步态、活动度、稳定性及踝关节对线等方面进行评价。结果：25例均获随访,时间20～35个月,平均27.5个月。术后踝关节无疼痛,步态明显改善,无神经血管损伤、感染和固定失败等并发症,平均骨性融合时间为11.7周（8～15周）。术后VAS评分为（1.20±0.82）分,较术前的（8.60±0.96）分明显降低（t=27.326,P=0.000）;术后AOFAS评分中客观项目均较术前改善,术后AOFAS评分为（82.44±4.96）分,较术前的（36.44±9.90）分明显增加（t=-19.178,P=0.000）。结论：关节镜监视下踝关节植骨融合术操作简单,术中创伤小,术后恢复快、并发症少,是踝关节融合的理想方法。     

Analysis of the efficacy of a modified posteromedial approach for Klammer III posterior Pilon fractures

PurposeTo analyze the curative effect and technical points of a modified posteromedial approach in the treatment of Klammer III posterior Pilon fracture.MethodsA retrospective analysis of patients with Klammer III posterior Pilon fractures were conducted in our department from January 2018 to December 2019. Before the surgery, the patients were fully relieved of swelling and pain, and a comprehensive examination was carried out. The posteromedial approach exposed the posterior and medial fracture block of the distal tibia. According to the fracture of external malleolus, it is determined whether to combine a lateral incision and protect tendons and vascular nerves by a retractor, and then perform a fracture reduction and internal fixation. Postoperatively, the patients were treated with analgesia, detumescence, anticoagulation and rehabilitation exercise. The American orthopaedic foot and ankle society (AOFAS) score and visual analogue score were recorded at regular follow-up after surgery. A t-test was used for the comparison of the preoperative and final AOFAS score.ResultsThere were 7 male and 13 female (n = 20) included in the study, aged 22 to 88 years (average age 54.2 years). The injury mechanisms were falling from a height (n = 7), traffic accident (n = 6), walking injury (n = 2) and heavy injury (n = 5). The postoperative follow-up duration was 12–24 months (mean 16.95 months). The AOFAS score of the 20 patients before and after surgery were compared. The preoperative AOFAS score was 38.90 ± 3.91, and the final AOFAS score was 80.55 ± 4.20, (p < 0.001). The mean final visual analogue scores at rest, active and weight-bearing walking were 0.30, 0.85 and 1.70, respectively. One patient reported poor postoperative wound healing and required a return to hospital for debridement and anti-infection treatment.ConclusionIn the treatment of Klammer III posterior Pilon fractures, the modified posteromedial approach can fully expose the fracture block and the collapsed articular surface of the medial malleolus, achieve good reduction and internal fixation with limited injury of the tendon and vascular nerves, and have a better prognosis.     

Use of the modified Stainsby procedure in correcting severe claw toe deformity in the rheumatoid foot: A retrospective review

IntroductionIn claw toe deformity, the plantar plate of the metarsophalangeal joint becomes displaced onto the dorsal aspect of the metatarsal head. The Stainsby procedure replaces the displaced plantar plate to its correct position beneath the metatarsal head.ObjectiveIn this study we assess the efficacy of a modified Stainsby procedure for the treatment of claw toe deformity.MethodsThirteen patients were operated on between 2002 and 2008. Eleven patients (13 feet) were available for review with the average follow-up period being 16 months. Clinical examination was performed and AOFAS forefoot scores were measured.ResultsAll 13 (100%) of the feet operated on had severe or moderate pain preoperatively. None had significant pain at review. Plantar callosities were reduced from 13 (100%) feet preoperatively to 1 (9%) foot postoperatively. The AOFAS forefoot score in the eleven patients improved significantly by 40.7 points from a preoperative mean of 20.1 to a mean of 50.2 at review (p < 0.001). Ten (91%) of the 11 patients were completely satisfied with the procedure, 1 patient was satisfied with some reservations.ConclusionThis study demonstrates the modified Stainsby procedure to be effective in correcting claw toe deformity in the rheumatoid patient. It relieves pain, skin callosities and improves overall forefoot function.