Relationship of Cuboid Height to Plantar Ulceration and Other Radiographic Parameters in Midfoot Charcot Neuroarthropathy

The objective of the present investigation was to examine the effect of cuboid height on the presence of plantar midfoot ulceration and the relationship of cuboid height to other commonly performed radiographic parameters during evaluation of midfoot Charcot neuroarthropathy. A retrospective analysis was performed of 68 feet in 60 subjects who met the inclusion criteria. We did not observe statistically significant differences in the presence of a plantar midfoot ulceration when considering a cuboid height threshold of 0.0 mm, 2.0 mm, ?2.0 mm, or ?5.0 mm nor was the cuboid height a robust predictor for the presence of plantar midfoot ulceration when considering the positive predictive value, negative predictive value, sensitivity, or specificity. We observed a significant negative association between a negative cuboid height and the presence of Sanders Type 2 deformities (76.2% of those with negative height versus 50.0% of those with positive height had type 2 deformities; p = .0036), the absence of radiographic visualization of the lateral tarsometatarsal joint (71.4% of those with negative height versus 26.9% of those with positive height had an absence of radiographic visualization; p = .005), and lower calcaneal inclination angles (6.06° versus 15.08°; p < .001). We further observed significant positive correlations between the cuboid height and the calcaneal–fifth metatarsal angle (0.655; p < .000), calcaneal inclination angle (0.591; p < .001), calcaneal–cuboid angle (0.254; p = .038), medial column height (0.264; p = .029), and first metatarsal inclination angle (0.245; p = .047). We also observed negative correlations with Meary's angle (?0.475; p < .001) and the talar declination angle (?0.387; p < .001). These findings showed a general trend toward a decreasing cuboid height and increasing sagittal plane deformity involving both the medial and the lateral columns. The results of the present investigation provide evidence against a single radiographic parameter being associated with the presence of plantar midfoot ulceration.     

Medial Displacement Calcaneal Osteotomy with Posterior Tibial Tendon Reconstruction for the Flexible Flatfoot with Symptomatic Accessory Navicular

We investigated the clinical outcomes after medial displacement calcaneal osteotomy with reconstruction of the posterior tibial tendon insertion on the navicular, in patients with flexible flatfoot with accessory navicular symptoms. From December 2008 to July 2011, 16 patients (21 feet) with a flexible flatfoot, symptomatic accessory navicular, and obvious heel valgus underwent medial displacement calcaneal osteotomy and reconstruction with posterior tibial tendon insertion on the navicular bone. The patients were evaluated preoperatively, 6 weeks and 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively, and every 6 months thereafter. The clinical examination was undertaken using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society ankle and midfoot scores. The radiologic assessments included the arch height, calcaneus inclination angle, talocalcaneal angle, and talar first metatarsal angle on the lateral weightbearing radiograph. The talocalcaneal angle and talar first metatarsal angle was assessed on the anteroposterior view of the weightbearing foot. Heel valgus alignment was assessed on the axial hindfoot radiographs. The mean follow-up duration was 28.5 months (range 18 to 48). All patients were satisfied with the clinical results and were pain free 6 months postoperatively. No cases of wound infection or nerve injury developed. The mean American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society score improved from 53.3 ± 6.5 to 90.8 ± 1.4 at the last follow-up visit (p < .01). The improvements in all radiographic parameters were statistically significant between the preoperative and last follow-up examinations (p < .01). The heel valgus of all patients was corrected. Our results have shown that medial displacement calcaneal osteotomy with reconstruction of the posterior tibial tendon insertion on the navicular bone is an effective treatment of flexible flatfoot with symptomatic accessory navicular, associated with excellent clinical outcomes and correction of the deformity.     

Changes in Rearfoot Alignment in Chronic Plantar Heel Pain

Plantar heel pain is a common disabling condition in adults. Biomechanical factors are important in the development of plantar heel pain. Quantitative changes in rearfoot alignment in patients with plantar heel pain have not been previously investigated. From April 2016 to March 2017, 100 patients with plantar heel pain and 100 healthy individuals were recruited. The foot posture index was used for the measurement of foot alignment. The generalized joint hypermobility condition was assessed using the Beighton scale. The transverse plane talocalcaneal angle, calcaneocuboid angle, talonavicular uncovering angle, calcaneal inclination angle (CIA), talar declination angle, talar–first metatarsal angle, and sagittal talocalcaneal angle were measured on standard weightbearing anteroposterior and lateral foot radiographs. The body mass index was recorded electronically. The distribution of sex, age, weight, body mass index, side, foot posture index score, and Beighton scale were comparable between groups (p?>?.05). The mean calcaneocuboid angle (p?=?.009), talonavicular uncovering angle (p?=?.000), CIA (p?=?.000), talar declination angle (p?=?.039), and talar–first metatarsal angle (p?=?.000) were significantly higher in the plantar heel pain group. In conclusion, our study has demonstrated a relationship between chronic plantar heel pain and the CIA.     

Observed Changes in Radiographic Measurements of the First Ray after Frontal Plane Rotation of the First Metatarsal in a Cadaveric Foot Model

We observed the changes in the angular measurements commonly used in the evaluation of the first metatarsal and first metatarsophalangeal joint in cadaveric specimens before and after frontal plane rotation of the first metatarsal. Measurements of the first and second intermetatarsal angle (IMA), hallux abductus angle, proximal articular set angle, and tibial sesamoid position (TSP) were taken after varying degrees of varus and valgus rotation of the first metatarsal. Standard dorsoplantar radiographs were taken at 0°, 10°, 20°, and 30° of valgus rotation of the first metatarsal and repeated at 10°, 20°, and 30° varus rotation of the first metatarsal. The data were analyzed using a mixed linear model to compare the change in each angle measurement over the range of valgus and varus rotation. The change in the TSP was significant in both valgus and varus rotations (p = .0004 and p = .028, respectively), an increase in valgus rotation causing an increase in the TSP and an increase in varus rotation causing a decrease in TSP. The change in the IMA was significant compared with valgus rotation (p = .028), showing that as the valgus rotation increased, the IMA also increased. However, compared with the varus rotation, the correlation was not significant (p = .18). The proximal articular set angle and hallux abductus angle measurements, compared with metatarsal rotation, showed positive trends but were not statistically significant. From our results and a review of the published data, we have hypothesized that frontal plane rotation of the first metatarsal is an integral component of hallux abducto valgus pathologic features, specifically in relation to the TSP and IMA.     

Management of Intra-Articular Calcaneal Fractures: Clinical Results of Reduction Technique Using a Bone Spreader

The purpose of the present study was to examine the clinical results of surgery for intra-articular calcaneal fractures using a calcaneal locking plate and a bone spreader as a reduction tool. Ten patients with intra-articular calcaneal fractures were treated. An extended lateral approach was used. The reduction of the intra-articular fragments of the posterior facet was temporarily held using a bone spreader and Kirschner wires. Internal fixation was achieved with a locking calcaneal plate. Böhler's angle and Preiss' angle were assessed on the day of injury and the day of the final follow-up examination. The step off and gap of the posterior facet were assessed on the day of injury and the first week after surgery. The functional outcome was evaluated using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society ankle hindfoot scale score. The mean Böhler's angle ranged from 2.1° ± 11.0° to 30.4° ± 5.0° (p < .0001), the mean Preiss' angle ranged from 23.5° ± 4.5° to 15.5° ± 2.9° (p < .0001), the mean step off ranged from 4.0 ± 1.9 mm to 0.1 ± 0.2 mm (p = .0002), and the mean gap ranged from 2.6 ± 1.0 mm to 1.2 ± 0.6 mm (p = .0035). The mean American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society Ankle-Hindfoot scale score was 89.2 (range 85 to 100) at a mean of 14.3 months after surgery. Our results suggest that a locking calcaneal plate can be used to restore and reduce an intra-articular calcaneal fracture and achieve good clinical results.     

Acute effect of orthoses on foot orientation and perceived comfort in individuals with pes cavus during standing

BackgroundChanges in foot orientation due to orthoses and the relationship with perceived comfort are still unclear in pes cavus. The purpose of this study was to determine the acute changes of fore-foot angles due to the use of custom-made orthoses and their relationship with perceived comfort during standing.MethodsTwo photographs were taken using a color-coded camera-based system from the posterior and medial views of 20 subjects with bilateral pes cavus under barefoot and with orthoses conditions during standing. Djian–Annonier, calcaneal inclination, 1st metatarsal declination and rearfoot angles were measured and perceived comfort in the forefoot, midfoot and rearfoot was estimated using an adapted Visual Analogue Scale-type questionnaire.ResultsIn comparison with the barefoot condition, orthoses increased significantly the 1st metatarsal declination angle by 1.9° (p < 0.01), and the Djian–Annonier angle by 1.1° (p = 0.02). The calcaneal inclination angle decreased significantly by an average of 3.0° (p < 0.01). Wearing orthoses significantly improved perceived comfort in forefoot, midfoot and rearfoot when compared to barefoot condition (p < 0.01). A significant correlation was observed between variation of calcaneal inclination angle and the perceived comfort at the midfoot (r = ?0.44; p = 0.04).ConclusionFlattening of foot arch and improvement of midfoot perceived comfort in pes cavus could be attributed to the reduction of the calcaneal inclination angle in the sagittal plane by using orthoses during standing.     

Could Failure of the Spring Ligament Complex Be the Driving Force behind the Development of the Adult Flatfoot Deformity?

We conducted an investigation into the relative associations of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)–defined pathologic features of the spring ligament and/or tibialis posterior tendon with radiographic evidence of a planovalgus foot position. A total of 161 patient images (MRI and plain radiographs) obtained from the foot and ankle clinic (2008 to 2011) were retrospectively reviewed. All 161 patients (64 male and 97 female; mean age 45.9 years, range 18 to 86) were included in the analysis. Lateral weightbearing radiographs were analyzed for the talo–first metatarsal angle ≥ 5°, calcaneal pitch ≤ 20°, and talocalcaneal angle ≥ 45°. A positive finding for ≥ 1 measurements identified a radiographic planovalgus position of the foot. The radiographic deformity was analyzed against the MRI evidence of either spring ligament or tibialis posterior tendon pathologic features for significance (p < .05). Evidence of a spring ligament abnormality was strongly associated with a planovalgus foot position, reaching high levels of statistical significance in all 3 categories of radiographic deformity (odds ratio 9.2, p < .0001). Abnormalities of the tibialis posterior tendon failed to demonstrate significance, unless grade I changes were excluded, and grade II and III appearances were analyzed in isolation (odds ratio 2.9, p = .04). Although absolute causal relationships were not tested, this investigation has clearly demonstrated that MRI-defined abnormalities of the spring ligament complex are possibly of at least equal importance to tibialis posterior dysfunction for the presence of a moderate to severe radiographic planovalgus foot position.     

Radiographic Analysis of the Lateral Column Lengthening Procedure in Stage II Adult Acquired Flatfoot Deformity

Adult acquired flat foot deformity (AAFD) is a progressive, tri-planar deformity involving collapse of the medial longitudinal arch, valgus deformity of the rear foot, and abduction of the mid-foot on the rear foot. There are a wide variety of surgical treatment options for this deformity, including lateral column lengthening (LCL) which results in tri-planar correction of AAFD. We retrospectively reviewed weightbearing preoperative radiographs and weight-bearing 6-week postoperative radiographs of 34 patients with stage II AAFD who underwent LCL (with and without concurrent procedures) with a minimum of 1-year of follow up. Outcomes, including complications and postoperative differences in 6 types of angle measurements were evaluated. Radiographic evaluation showed statistically significant differences in preoperative and postoperative measures in the following angles: calcaneal inclination, Meary's, Simmons, talocalcaneal, and metatarsus adductus (each p ≤ .05). Postoperative Engel's angle difference did not reach statistical significance (p = .07). Paired t tests showed TN coverage angles increased greater with LCL plus a Cotton osteotomy as compared to isolated LCL. Additionally, there was no significant difference in TN coverage angle based on LCL graft size (p = .20). Furthermore, the distance of the osteotomy from the calcaneocuboid joint on anteroposterior and lateral radiographs did not significantly predict TN coverage angle change.Our study suggests that LCL corrects AAFD in three planes while decreasing the metatarsus adductus angle. LCL appears to be more effective when performed with a Cotton osteotomy. Wedge size (6 mm, 8 mm, 10 mm) and osteotomy location did not demonstrate a relationship with postoperative TN coverage angle or incidence of lateral column overload.     

Preoperative Planning and Intraoperative Technique for Accurate Realignment of the Dwyer Calcaneal Osteotomy

The Dwyer calcaneal osteotomy is an effective procedure for the correction of calcaneal varus deformity. However, no intraoperative method has been described to determine the amount of bone resection. We describe a simple intraoperative method for assuring accurate bone resection and measure the realignment effects of the Dwyer calcaneal osteotomy. We also review radiographic outcomes associated with 20 Dwyer calcaneal osteotomies (in 17 patients) using the intraoperative realignment technique described in this report. Preoperative and postoperative radiographs at a mean of 2.5 (range 1.5 to 5) years taken after Dwyer osteotomy were measured and compared, which revealed a mean reduction in calcaneal varus of 18° (range 2° to 36°) (p < .001), a mean decrease in the calcaneal inclination angle of 5° (range –40° to 7°) (p < .05), a mean decrease in medial calcaneal translation of 10 (range 0 to 18) mm (p < .001) relative to the tibia, and a mean dorsal translation of 2 (range 0 to 7) mm (p = .002). In an effort to attempt to structurally realign the calcaneus to a more rectus alignment, by means of Dwyer osteotomy, we recommend the use of the intraoperative bone wedge resection technique described in this report. Our experience with the patients described in this report demonstrates the usefulness of the intraoperative method that we describe in order to accurately restore the axial tibial and calcaneal relationship.     

Can 3-Dimensional Printing for Calcaneal Fracture Surgery Decrease Operation Time and Improve Quality of Fracture Reduction?

We investigated whether 3-dimensional (3D) printed models can decrease operation time and improve the quality of reduction for calcaneal fractures. The study involved 48 patients with unilateral intra-articular calcaneal fractures, who were retrospectively case-matched according to Sander's classification, age, and sex. Group A (24 patients) was operated using 3D printed models as a preoperative and intraoperative tool, and group B (24 patients) was operated using standard techniques without 3D printed model. Operation time was significantly shorter for group A, compared to group B (82.3 ± 13.2 vs 91.4 ± 16.0, p = .036). The differences between the radiological parameters of operated calcaneus, compared to the normal side was similar between the 2 groups (Böhler angle, 5.3° ± 3.9° vs 4.2° ± 4.7°, p = .45, Gissane angle, 5.9° ± 12.5° vs 8.4° ± 11.0°, p = .54). The number of screws projecting more than 5 mm from the cortex was lower in group A than in group B (7/187, 4% vs 16/208, 8%, p = .11). The number of screw holes of the plate cut intraoperatively was significantly lower for group A compared to group B (1 vs 138). Although group A started weightbearing 3 to 4 weeks earlier than group B, the radiological parameters were similar between groups that early weightbearing was possible for group A using the 3D printed models (Böhler angle, - 1.5° ± 0.8° vs - 1.8° ± 1.2°, p = .28, Gissane angle, 2.5° ± 2.6° vs 3.5° ± 4.3°, p = .39). The operation time was shorter while using the 3D printed models, compared to that of the standard technique without using the 3D printed model. The radiological parameters were not statistically different, and the quality of fracture reduction seemed similar. However, with the use of 3D printed models, early weightbearing was possible without significant subsidence of reduced fragments or failure of fracture reduction, comparable to non-weightbearing cases.     

副舟骨切除胫后肌腱止点重建跟骨内移截骨术治疗与副舟骨相关的平足症

 目的 探讨副舟骨切除胫后肌腱止点重建跟骨内移截骨术治疗与副舟骨相关的平足症的临床疗效。方法 2009年3月至2011年10月,采用副舟骨切除胫后肌腱止点重建跟骨内移截骨术治疗与副舟骨相关的平足症13例(16足),男4例,女9例;年龄18～64 岁,平均41.3岁。单足10例,双足3例;均有明显的跟骨外翻。术后以美国足踝外科协会(American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society,AOFAS)踝与后足评分评估后足功能,于X线片上测量足弓高度、跟骨倾斜角(CI)、距跟角(TC)、距骨-第一跖骨角(TMT)。结果 13例均获得随访,随访时间12~31个月,平均16.8个月。术后6个月时11例(13足)无任何疼痛,2例(3足)有长距离行走后足部疼痛。术后随访时AOFAS评分从术前(52.4±6.4)分提高至(88.1±2.8)分;负重侧位X线片上足弓高度从(3.8±0.3) mm提高至(12.0±1.1) mm,CI从9.5°±1.1°提高至20.1°±1.5°,TC从47.3°±2.5°改善至32.3°±2.5°,TMT从17.6°±1.6°改善至6.8°±1.0°;负重正位X线片上TC从39.5°±2.3°改善至26.2°±2.0°,TMT从15.2°±1.7°改善至6.3°±1.0°;轴位X线片上跟骨外翻角从11.3°±1.4°改善至4.2°±2.0°。结论 对与副舟骨相关的平足症的治疗,当存在后足外翻畸形时,副舟骨切除胫后肌腱止点重建跟骨内移截骨术可以明显缓解疼痛,有效矫正畸形,近期疗效良好。     

Three-dimensional displacement after a medializing calcaneal osteotomy in relation to the osteotomy angle and hindfoot alignment

BackgroundA medializing calcaneal osteotomy is frequently performed to correct adult-acquired flatfoot deformities, but there is lack of data on the associated three-dimensional variables defining the final correction. The aim of this study was to assess the correlation between the pre-operative hindfoot valgus deformity and calcaneal osteotomy angles and the post-operative calcaneal displacement.MethodsWeight-bearing CT scans obtained pre- and post-operatively were retrospectively analyzed for sixteen patients. Corresponding three-dimensional bone models were used to measure valgus deformity pre- and post-operatively, inclination of the osteotomy and displacement of the calcaneus. Linear regression was conducted to assess the relationship between these measurements.ResultsOn average, the hindfoot valgus changed from 13.1° (±4.6) pre-operatively to 5.7° (±4.3) post-operatively. A mean inferior displacement of 3.2 mm (±1.3) was observed along the osteotomy with a mean inclination of 54.6° (±5.6), 80.5° (±10.7), −13.7° (±15.7) in the axial, sagittal and coronal planes, respectively. A statistically significant positive relationship (p < .05, R² = 0.6) was found between the pre-operative valgus, the axial osteotomy inclination, and the inferior displacement.ConclusionsThis study shows that the degree of pre-operative hindfoot valgus and the axial osteotomy angle are predictive factors for the amount of post-operative inferior displacement of the calcaneus. These findings demonstrate the added value of a computer-based pre-operative planning in clinical practice.Level of evidence II Prospective comparative study.     

Lateral column lengthening (LCL) using a rectangular shape graft for managing symptomatic flexible flatfoot showed acceptable early functional and radiological outcomes

Purpose: We aimed to report the results of performing lateral column lengthening (LCL) using a rectangular-shaped graft to correct the flat foot deformity. Methods: A total of 28 feet of 19 patients (10 males, 9 females) having an average age of 10 ± 3.2 years who were unresponsive to conservative management underwent flat foot deformity correction through LCL procedure supplemented with rectangular-shaped graft harvested from the fibula. Functional assessment was performed according to the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scale. The radiographic assessment consisted of four parameters, Meary’s angle in both anteroposterior (AP) and lateral (Lat.) views, calcaneal inclination angle (CIA), and calcaneocuboid angle (CCA). Results: After an average of 30.2 ± 8.1 months, the AOFAS improved significantly from 46.7 ± 10.2 preoperatively to 86.7 ± 9.5 at the last follow up (P < 0.05). All the osteotomies showed healing at an average of 10.3 ± 2.7 weeks. All the radiological parameters showed significant improvement at the last follow up compared to the preoperative measurements, CIA from 6.3 ± 2.8–19.3 ± 3.5, Lat. Meary's angle from 19.3 ± 4.9–5.8 ± 2.5, AP Meary’s Angle from 19.3 ± 5.8–6.1 ± 3.1, and CCA from 23.9 ± 8.2–6.8 ± 4.5, (P < 0.05). No pain at the site of the fibular osteotomy was reported in any of the patients. Conclusion: Lateral column lengthening using a rectangular graft effectively restores bony alignment with good radiological and clinical results, high patient satisfaction, and acceptable complications.     

Evans Calcaneal Osteotomy: Assessment of Multiplanar Correction

Flatfoot deformity consists of collapse of the medial arch, forefoot abduction, increased talonavicular uncoverage, and hindfoot valgus. Although numerous soft tissue and bony procedures have been proposed to correct each plane of deformity, there is a lack of objective data in the literature quantifying the amount of structural correction. The purpose of this study was to quantify the multiplanar deformity correction of the lateral column lengthening osteotomy (Evans) on hindfoot alignment through objective, reproducible, radiographic measurements. We retrospectively reviewed 45 Evans calcaneal osteotomy procedures in 24 female (53%) and 21 male (47%) feet performed on 40 patients (5 bilateral). The mean follow-up was 53 weeks (range, 32-116). The mean age at the time of surgery was 35 years (range, 11-73). Statistically significant improvement in radiographic alignment was found in the calcaneal inclination angle, tibial-calcaneal angle, tibial-calcaneal position, and the anteroposterior talo-first metatarsal angle (p < .0001 for all). Although a direct correlation between graft size and degree of angular correction was not observed, it should be noted the calcaneal graft size (mean, 11.8 mm) and the amount of hindfoot valgus correction (mean, 12.6°) appear to be clinically related. The results of this study support that the Evans calcaneal osteotomy corrects the hindfoot alignment in 3 planes as evidenced by our multiplanar radiographic measurements.     

Predicting Postoperative Sagittal Plane Alignment of the Foot Using Intraoperative Simulated Weightbearing Lateral Imaging During Flatfoot Reconstructive Surgery: A Short-Term Retrospective Analysis

The sagittal plane relationship of the hindfoot and midfoot joints is a primary determinant of proper alignment in flatfoot reconstructive surgery as assessed both clinically and on postoperative weightbearing (WB) lateral radiographs. The traditional approach to intraoperative radiographic imaging allows for accurate assessment of fixation placement but only a crude evaluation of final sagittal plane alignment. Surgeons employ various methods in an attempt to load the foot during lateral imaging. Skepticism exists regarding the ability of simulated WB fluoroscopy to predict the final outcome, and evidence is lacking to support this practice. A retrospective investigation was performed assessing the correlation of Meary's angle, calcaneal inclination angle, and calcaneal-1^st metatarsal angle as demonstrated on intraoperative simulated WB lateral foot imaging to 10- week postoperative full WB lateral radiographs. A consistent simulated WB imaging protocol was used with 46 consecutive cases of flatfoot reconstruction in this analysis of secular trends. The average change in Meary's angle between intraoperative simulated WB and postoperative full WB was -1.09° with 89% of cases within ±5°. The average change in calcaneal–1^st metatarsal angle between intraoperative simulated WB and full WB was -2.61° with 85% of cases within ±5°. The average change in calcaneal inclination angle between intraoperative simulated WB and full WB was -2.62° with 88% of cases within ±5°. These findings confirm the clinical utility of intraoperative simulated WB lateral imaging as a useful tool in predicting the postoperative sagittal plane alignment of the midfoot and rearfoot in patients undergoing flatfoot reconstructive surgery.     

Surgical Treatment of Hyperpronation Using an Extraosseous Talotarsal Stabilization Device: Radiographic Outcomes in 70 Adult Patients

The purpose of this study was to determine radiographic correction achieved in adult patients treated with an extraosseous talotarsal stabilization (EOTTS) procedure. Patients diagnosed with flexible/reducible talotarsal joint dislocation (partial) underwent surgical correction with the HyProCure^® EOTTS device. Preoperative and postoperative weightbearing radiographs taken in the anteroposterior (AP) and lateral views for a total 95 feet (in 70 patients) were analyzed to determine standardized radiographic angles, and to quantify the correction obtained after the EOTTS procedure. Postoperative radiographs were taken at an average follow-up of 17 days from the surgery date. The mean preoperative and postoperative talar second metatarsal angles (measured from the AP radiographs) were 24.8° ± 1.0° and 5.8° ± 0.9°, respectively, that is, mean decrease by 19°. The mean preoperative and postoperative talar declination angles (measured from the lateral radiographs) were 25.1° ± 0.7° and 19.4° ± 0.5°, respectively, that is, mean decrease by 5.7°. The mean preoperative and postoperative calcaneal inclination angles (measured from the lateral radiographs) were 21° ± 0.7° and 21.8° ± 0.7°, respectively, that is, mean increase by 0.8°. Postoperatively, the talar second metatarsal and talar declination angles were reduced to average values reported in the literature for normal feet. This study shows the efficacy of a minimally invasive EOTTS procedure in restoring the normal angular relationships between hindfoot and forefoot osseous structures on weightbearing, in both the transverse and sagittal planes. This indicates stabilization of the talotarsal joint complex and elimination of hyperpronation, which may lead to reduced pain, improved foot functional abilities, and patient satisfaction.     

A Modified Ponseti Method for the Treatment of Rigid Idiopathic Congenital Clubfoot

This study reviewed the efficacy of a modified Ponseti method (MP) for treating rigid clubfeet insufficiently corrected by the classic Ponseti method. Briefly, the MP consisted of 3 procedures. First, Achilles tenotomy, abductor hallucis tenotomy, and plantar fasciotomy were conducted through 3 small incisions. Second, the talocalcaneal and talonavicular joints were manually reduced. Third, plaster immobilization was introduced to maintain the initial correction. Dimeglio scores, radiographs, and pain evaluations were used to analyze outcomes. All 38 patients with 56 clubfeet enrolled in the present study achieved initial correction after the MP, followed by a mean of 3.68 ± 0.77 (range 3 to 5) cast immobilizations, which were changed each week. The average duration of treatment was 30.63 ± 6.45 days (range 23 to 47), and 6 (10.71%) clubfeet exhibited cast-related pressure injury. After a mean follow-up period of 19.71 ± 4.83 months (range 12.47 to 31.33), no child presented foot pain, and except for 1 patient with relapse, all patients received correction, with Dimeglio scores of 0.55 ± 1.06 points (range 0 to 7). The recurrence rate was 1.79% (1 of 56) at the first year. The anteroposterior talocalcaneal angle was 34.83° ± 10.65°, and the lateral talocalcaneal angle was 31.38° ± 9.86° at the last follow-up period, and both were significantly improved compared with the corresponding preoperative angles (p < .001). The anteroposterior talus-first metatarsal angle was 12.33° ± 10.04°, and the lateral calcaneal tibial angle was 74.15° ± 14.12°, which were significantly decreased compared with the preoperative values (p < .001). In conclusion, the present short-term evaluation of this minimally invasive soft-tissue release method showed promising results for treating rigid clubfoot that was not responsive to the traditional Ponseti method.     

Biomechanical Evaluation of a Cadaveric Flatfoot Model and Lateral Column Lengthening Technique

Patients with adult acquired flatfoot have progressive worsening of bony alignment with many being unable to perform a heel rise. Following reconstruction, pathologic skeletal alignment is corrected and the ability to perform a heel rise is often restored. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between forefoot liftoff forces and skeletal alignment in a cadaveric flatfoot model by assessing the effect of sequential lengthening of the lateral column using an Evans-type calcaneal osteotomy. Bony alignment was measured in 8 cadaveric specimens with the use of a 3-dimensional digitizing system. Transection of the spring ligament, pie-crusting of the plantar fascia, and cyclic axial loading of the foot was performed to create an anatomic and functional flatfoot model. An Evans-type calcaneal osteotomy using 6, 8, 10, and 12 mm wedges was performed. Specimens were mounted to a custom jig that applies tensile loads to the Achilles, peroneus brevis, peroneus longus, and tibialis posterior tendons. Creation of a flatfoot reduced the lateral talo-first metatarsal angle (Meary's angle) by 13° (23.6° ± 2.8° vs 10.6° ± 3.8°, p < .05) and forefoot force by 7% (199.3 N ± 7.3 N vs 185.4 N ± 9 N, p < .05). Sequential lengthening of the lateral column restored skeletal alignment and force transfer to the forefoot (12 mm wedge: Meary's angle 22.7° ± 3.9°, liftoff force 206.8 N ± 7.5 N). The cadaveric flatfoot model demonstrated decreased forefoot forces that were restored with an Evans-type calcaneal osteotomy wedge. This highlights the importance of restoring skeletal alignment when correcting advanced adult acquired flatfoot.     

Sinus Tarsi Approach With Percutaneous Screw Fixation for Intra-Articular Calcaneal Fractures

The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of surgical treatment of intra-articular calcaneal fractures by using the sinus tarsi approach combined with percutaneous medial reduction by leverage technique and percutaneous screw fixation. We assessed the outcomes of 29 patients treated using sinus tarsi approach with percutaneous screw fixation. All patients were evaluated both clinically and radiologically. The Böhler and Gissane angle were evaluated postoperatively using radiographs. During the median follow-up period of 27.0 ± 10.3 months, no cases with failure to reduce or displace hardware were detected. All cases achieved the restoration of a normal Böhler and Gissane angle. The median preoperative Böhler angle was 12.3° ± 2.5° while postoperatively it was 30.5° ± 5.7° (p < .01). The median preoperative Gissane angle was 98.1° ± 7.5°, which was 125.9° ± 3.6° postoperatively (p < .01). At the last follow-up, the median American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society hindfoot score was 87.7 ± 5.9, and the median Maryland foot score was 88.6 ± 5.9. Our technique for intra-articular calcaneal fractures can effectively correct calcaneal tuberosity outward displacement, medial wall overlapping, and the hindfoot varus deformity with less soft tissue damage. This technique is a good alternative for the treatment of calcaneal fractures, resulting in minimal soft tissue damage, few wound complications, and excellent radiological and clinical outcomes.     

Effectiveness of a Locking Plate in Preserving Midcalcaneal Length and Positional Outcome after Evans Calcaneal Osteotomy: A Retrospective Pilot Study

When using the Evans calcaneal osteotomy for repair of a calcaneovalgus deformity, lengthening of the lateral column of the foot is the method by which the procedure acts to correct the deformity. Therefore, maintaining the length is a priority. In our experience, substantial length is lost soon after surgery using the traditional nonfixated procedure. To test this hypothesis, a retrospective study was undertaken in which we compared the calcaneal length before and after the Evans procedures in 22 patients treated without fixation and 13 patients in whom the graft was fixated with a small locking plate to bridge the osteotomy and reduce the compressive forces on the graft. Within the first 10 days after surgery, the increase in calcaneal length from the preoperative length was 6.3 mm in the nonfixated group and 6.8 mm in the fixated group (p = .54 for the 0.5-mm difference). At 12 weeks after surgery, the mean amount of shortening from the value observed at 1 week was 2.45 (range 0 to 6) mm in the nonfixated group and 1.0 (range 0 to 3) mm in the internal fixation group (p = .48). Also, at 12 weeks, distal calcaneal migration or dorsal anterior calcaneal displacement of more than 3 mm occurred in 5 patients (23%) in the nonfixated group and 1 patient (8%) in the fixated group (p = .04). Our results suggest that locking plates do preserve the correction obtained with the Evans calcaneal osteotomy.