Posterior Arthroscopic Subtalar Arthrodesis: Clinical and Radiologic Review of 19 Cases

Arthroscopic subtalar arthrodesis has recently gained popularity in the treatment of primary subtalar or post-traumatic arthritis, coalition, or inflammatory diseases with subtalar arthritis. The present study reports the clinical and radiologic results of 19 patients (19 feet) who underwent posterior arthroscopic subtalar arthrodesis using 2 posterior portals. A total of 19 posterior arthroscopic subtalar arthrodeses (minimum follow-up of 24 months) performed without a bone graft and with 2 parallel screws were prospectively evaluated. The fusion rate was 94% (mean time to fusion 9.8 weeks). Modified American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society ankle-hindfoot scale score (maximum 94 points) improved significantly from 43 to 80 points and the visual analog scale for pain score improved from 7.6 to 1.2. The 12-item short-form physical and mental scores at the last follow-up point were 52.5 and 56.4, respectively. One (5.3%) patient underwent open repeat fusion for nonunion, 2 (10.5%) patients required a second procedure for implant removal, and 1 (5.3%) experienced reversible neuropraxia. In conclusion, posterior arthroscopic subtalar arthrodesis is a safe technique with a good union rate and a small number of complications in patients with no or very little hindfoot deformity.     

Modified Dwyer Osteotomy with Rotation and Reinsertion of Autograft Bone Wedge for Residual Heel Deformity Despite Previous Delayed Subtalar Joint Arthrodesis After Calcaneal Fracture

Calcaneal fracture patterns vary widely, and many factors determine the type and timing of the treatment rendered. Severe calcaneus fractures involving joint damage, loss of heel height, and varus deformity of the tuberosity are ideally treated with open reduction and internal fixation to repair the joint surface and re-establish anatomic structure. This is not always possible owing to delayed presentation, soft tissue compromise, unrelated injuries, unstable medical condition, or lack of expertise by the treating physician. We present the case of a patient who had residual forefoot and rearfoot deformity despite undergoing delayed subtalar joint arthrodesis at an outside hospital 10 years before for a calcaneal fracture that was initially treated nonoperatively. At 4 years of follow-up after modified Dwyer calcaneal osteotomy with rotation and reinsertion of the autograft bone wedge and Cotton midfoot osteotomy, the postoperative gait was relatively normal, other than the expected lack of hindfoot mobility. The lateral column pain was resolved. The patient remained highly satisfied with the outcome at long-term follow-up of 48 months, with improved heel alignment, lack of a wide stance gait, a functional medial column, and a relatively normal gait. This case demonstrates the value of periarticular calcaneal osteotomies without the need to revise the subtalar joint arthrodesis for this challenging clinical situation.     

Distraction Arthrodesis of the Subtalar Joint Using Allogeneic Bone Graft: A Review of 15 Cases

Distraction arthrodesis of the subtalar joint is often used for the correction of neglected calcaneal fractures. Although different techniques have been advocated, there remains some debate as to the optimal type of bone graft for this purpose. This study retrospectively reviewed one surgeon's results for distraction arthrodesis of the talocalcaneal joint for 15 consecutive feet in 15 patients using 12 frozen femoral head and 3 freeze-dried iliac crest allografts. Indications for distraction arthrodesis in this series included neglected calcaneal fracture (n = 10), failed open reduction with internal fixation (n = 3), malunion after ankle fusion (n = 1), and subtalar joint arthritis with deformity (n = 1). The mean patient age was 47.5 (range 29 to 66) years, and the mean duration of follow-up was 20.6 (range 13 to 31) months. Complete union was achieved in 14 (93.33%) feet. Orthobiological agents were used in every case, including 7 (46.67%) platelet-rich plasma, 5 (33.33%) demineralized bone matrix combined with platelet-rich plasma, 2 (13.33%) platelet-rich plasma combined with an implantable electrical bone growth stimulator, and 1 (6.67%) demineralized bone matrix only. One (6.67%) patient developed a nonunion with collapse of the allogeneic graft, requiring revision with autogenous iliac crest bone graft. There were 8 (53.33%) minor complications, including 4 (26.66%) cases with inferior heel irritation, 2 (13.33%) with sural nerve paresthesia, and 2 (13.33%) with wound dehiscence. In conclusion, the use of allograft for subtalar joint distraction arthrodesis results in similar union rates as autogenous iliac crest grafting previously reported in the literature.     

A Push-Pull Distraction Method for Arthroscopic Subtalar Joint Arthrodesis

Unlike ankle joint arthroscopy, distraction of the subtalar joint can be challenging. We introduce a powerful distraction method that can be used during an arthroscopic subtalar joint arthrodesis procedure using a “push-pull” technique. A fully threaded screw is used to push the talus while the calcaneus is pulled to distract the joint. The technique allows the surgeon to access the rather tight joint without disrupting a significant amount of the ligamentous and capsular structures. It also allows preservation of the vascular structures that supply the talus. The “push-pull” screw can also be converted to a second point of fixation at the end of the procedure.     

累及距下关节跟骨骨折并发症的防治

目的探讨累及距下关节的跟骨骨折并发症的防治。方法回顾性分析2003年1月至2008年7月我院收治累及距下关节的跟骨骨折52例63足,按Sanders分型,Ⅰ型6足,Ⅱ型13足,Ⅲ型26足,Ⅳ型18足。采用保守治疗6足,撬拨复位空心拉力螺钉固定、管型石膏托外固定8足,切开复位跟骨钢板内固定加自体髂骨植骨39足,钢板内固定未植骨10足。结果63足均获得随访,平均随访23个月。按M ary land足部功能评分系统进行疗效评定,优20足,良36足,可5足,差2足,优良率88.9%。出现皮肤坏死3例,浅表感染2例,腓肠神经损伤1例,腓骨肌腱炎2例,创伤性骨关节炎4例。结论累及距下关节的跟骨骨折应根据骨折类型选择恰当的治疗方案,可有效减少并发症,获得满意的疗效。     

Posterior Approach for Subtalar Joint Distraction Arthrodesis by Compact External Fixation: A Technique Guide

Subtalar joint arthrodesis is a commonly used surgical procedure for the management of rearfoot pathologic features. We present a technique guide for a posterior incisional approach to subtalar joint arthrodesis for correction of a calcaneal deformity secondary to calcaneal fracture malunion. This technique uses a monolateral external fixation device for controlled distraction and intercallary allograft placement. In contrast to a standard lateral approach, this incision provides better visualization of the joint space, and the use of a distractor enhances access to the joint surfaces for fusion preparation and maintains alignment while internal fixation is applied. A 44-year-old male underwent isolated subtalar joint arthrodesis to repair a malunion of a nonsurgically managed calcaneal fracture sustained 1 year before the surgical intervention. Controlled distraction was applied using a Hoffmann^® Compact? MRI external fixation device. This device maintained distraction and tibial–calcaneal alignment until placement of the allograft–bone marrow aspirate. The use of external fixation is a viable option for distraction arthrodesis in subtalar joint fusions. It facilitates frontal plane deformity correction. We have described the surgical technique and presented a case in which the posterior approach with distraction was successfully used in subtalar joint arthrodesis. At 12 weeks postoperatively, serial radiographs displayed incorporation of the graft, with distraction maintained at the subtalar joint arthrodesis site. At the 3-month follow-up visit, the patient had successfully transitioned to weightbearing in a CAM walker without any complications.     

Knee Joint Bone Defects: Reconstruction With Bone Transport and Arthrodesis

BackgroundThe increasing in primary total knee arthroplasty has led to an increase in infectious complications, revision surgery, and bone loss. Knee joint bone defects (KJBD) may be managed using bone transport and arthrodesis with Ilizarov or bone transport over nail (BTON) techniques. The aim of this study is to compare both techniques in the reconstruction of KJBDs.MethodsThis was a retrospective cohort study of 29 patients with extensive KJBD. All patients underwent reconstruction of the KJBD using bone transport (either Ilizarov or BTON techniques). The primary outcome variables for comparison between the two groups included time in frame (days), external fixation index (EFI, days/cm), residual limb length discrepancy (cm), and complications (Caton classification).ResultsGender and age profiles were comparable. Mean time spent in frame for bone transport was 566 days (σ = 236, 95% CI 429-702) for the Ilizarov cohort and 191 days (σ = 162, 95% CI 101-280) for BTON (P < .0001). EFI for the period of bone transport was 75.1 d/cm (σ = 41.5, 95% CI 51.1- 99.1) for the Ilizarov cohort and 24.7 d/cm (σ = 24.0, 95% CI 11.4-38) for BTON (P = .0004). Union, limb length discrepancy and complication rates were comparable between both groups.ConclusionFor the management of KJBD after failed total knee arthroplasty, BTON is preferred due to significantly less time spent in frame, lower EFI, and higher rates of normal mechanical alignment. The Ilizarov method may be useful when there is a contraindication to BTON.     

Reconstructive Surgery for Complete Talus Extrusion Using the Sandwich Block Arthrodesis: A Report of 2 Cases

Total extrusion of the talus is a rare and severe injury of the foot. If the talus is viable and can be repositioned, the outcome is unpredictable and mainly depends on whether infection and/or avascular necrosis ensues. If the talus is actually missing, the surgeon is faced with extensive bone loss and destruction of the ankle. In this report, we present 2 cases of total talus extrusion treated with the sandwich block tibiocalcaneal arthrodesis with structural autografts harvested from iliac crest. The surgical technique is reviewed in detail, and its application in 2 male patients who had a complete talus fracture-dislocation and a dislocation, respectively, is described. Follow-up after 18 years and 1 year, respectively, showed favorable clinical outcomes and only minor restrictions in daily activities. In light of these case reports, we believe that the sandwich block arthrodesis offers a useful alternative for the treatment of these serious lower extremity injuries.     

Medial Double Arthrodesis: Technique Guide and Tips

The triple arthrodesis procedure remains the historical standard to treat complex hindfoot pathology. However, in recent data, the medial double arthrodesis has been documented to provide similar benefit with decreased complication rates compared with the triple arthrodesis. Therefore, increased interest in this procedure for the treatment of complex hindfoot pathologies has ensued. We describe the technical components of the medial double arthrodesis.     

Primary subtalar arthrodesis for the treatment of comminuted intra-articular calcaneal fractures

We report the short- and mid-term results in six patients (seven feet) affected by markedly comminuted intra-articular calcaneal fractures (Sanders type IV), treated by primary subtalar arthrodesis. The average age at surgery was 40 years. In all patients, arthrodesis of the subtalar joint was performed using a limited lateral approach to the calcaneus; it was stabilised with two or three cannulated screws. No patient had a preliminary reduction and internal fixation of the fracture. The time from injury to surgery averaged 20 days because all of the patients had associated visceral and/or other skeletal injuries. All of the patients were followed up clinically and radiographically 2 times, at an average of 12 months and 53 months after surgery. At the short-term follow-up, the mean AOFAS score was 70 points; the X-rays showed a complete fusion of the subtalar joint in all seven feet, without any sign of osteoarthritis of the calcaneo-cuboid and the talo-navicular joints. In all cases, an altered shape of the calcaneus was present. At the mid-term follow-up, the mean AOFAS score increased to 85 points; in one patient, radiographic signs of osteoarthritis of the calcaneo-cuboid and the talo-navicular joints were present and, in another patient, only talo-navicular joint was present, although both patients were free from pain. The difference between the two AOFAS scores was statistically significant. We believe that primary subtalar arthrodesis performed for markedly comminuted Sanders type IV calcaneal fractures yielded good mid-term results, and it is especially indicated when surgical treatment is delayed for whatever reason. A preliminary open reduction and internal fixation to restore the normal height of the calcaneus before performing the subtalar arthrodesis, as suggested by several authors, does not seem indispensable to obtain good clinical results.     

距下关节塌陷性跟骨骨折的手术治疗

目的探讨距下关节塌陷性跟骨骨折的手术治疗效果。方法自2006年5月至2010年10月我院收治72例77足距下关节塌陷性跟骨骨折患者,按照Sanders分型,Ⅱ型44例49足,Ⅲ型24例24足,Ⅳ型4例4足。骨折均行切开复位植骨内固定,内固定材料选用Y形跟骨钛板,植骨材料均为自体骨。结果术后随访4～48个月,骨折全部愈合,愈合时问为8-20周;74足切口获I期愈合,切口皮肤部分坏死2例2足,换药后自行愈合。1足切口感染,形成溃疡,皮肤软组织缺损,钢板外露,于术后5个月取除内固定,腓肠神经营养血管逆行皮瓣移植,治愈。按美国足踝创伤协会的足部评分标准评定,优52足,良12足,中10足,差3足,优良率为83．12％。结论距下关节塌陷性跟骨骨折应采取手术治疗,植骨使关节面解剖复位,可减少并发症,提高生活质量。     

Subtalar Joint Distraction Arthrodesis Utilizing a Titanium Truss: A Case Series

Subtalar joint distraction arthrodesis has been recommended for the treatment of conditions such as nonunion or malunion of subtalar joint arthrodesis posttraumatic arthritis. Both conditions are difficult to treat, because the deformities created in the frontal and sagittal planes of these conditions are complex. If these malalignments are not addressed, ankle joint instability and wear occur over time. In general, either autograft or allograft bone has been used to perform distraction arthrodesis of the subtalar joint. Although studies have shown successful use, there have been complications. Autografts have resulted in donor site morbidity and limitations on graft size, and allografts have shown high nonunion rates. Both autografts and allografts have shown graft collapse over time. Recent literature has discussed the use of tantalum technology to span large defects in bone healing. Studies have shown that tantalum provides superior strength and bone incorporation compared with autografts and allografts. This case series presents 2 cases in which tantalum truss technology was used for distraction arthrodesis. Although this series is limited in patient numbers, both cases show effective graft incorporation with no loss in height over time and earlier return to activity compared with previous studies that used autograft and allograft wedges.     

Comparison of Initial Compression Force Across the Subtalar Joint by Two Different Screw Fixation Techniques

The purpose of this study was to compare the magnitude of compressive force across the posterior facet of the subtalar joint between 2 different screw orientations in a simulated subtalar fusion model fixated with cannulated 7.3-mm screws. Eight paired fresh, frozen cadaver feet were used. Before testing, the bone mineral density of the calcanei and tali was measured with dual energy x-ray absorptiometry to ensure comparable bone mineral density. The paired cadaver calcanei and tali were noted to have less than .05 g/cm(2) difference in bone mineral density. The paired specimens were each randomly assigned to 1 of 2 methods of fixation across the subtalar joint: a plantar approach, where the screw was oriented vertically from the plantar aspect of the calcaneus, distal to the tuberosity; and a posterior approach, where the screw was oriented obliquely from the posterior calcaneal tuberosity. A load-sensing washer was placed under the cancellous screw head before insertion of the screw to measure the magnitude of the compression force across the simulated fusion site. The mean compression force for the posterior-to-anterior approach was 581 N, with a standard deviation of 242 N. The mean force for the plantar-to-superior approach was 604 N, with a standard deviation of 276 N. The compression force obtained by the 2 approaches was not significantly different (P = .74). The plantar-to-superior fixation technique represents an alternative subtalar arthrodesis technique to the posterior-to-anterior approach, potentially allowing one to revise a previously failed arthrodesis when the standard fixation techniques cannot be applied.     

The Mini-Arthrotomy Ankle Arthrodesis: A Review of Nine Cases

The authors report on the retrospective follow-up of 9 patients (6 women and 3 men) who underwent a mini-arthrotomy ankle arthrodesis by means of small incisions for exposure, cartilage resection, and internal fixation with crossed interfragmental compression screws. Patients were kept non-weight-bearing in a short leg cast for 12 weeks postoperative. At a mean follow-up of 55 months, outcomes were assessed by clinical examination, radiographs, and patient satisfaction questionnaires. Fusion was obtained in all patients, and there were no cases of delayed union, infection, or cutaneous compromise. Modified American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society ankle and hindfoot rating scale scores significantly improved (P < .001) from a mean of 38 points preoperatively to 72 points at follow-up. A categorical assessment of functional ability in the postoperative period revealed 6 patients graded as excellent, 2 as good, and 1 as fair. In regard to a categorical assessment of clinical outcome in the postoperative period, 7 patients were graded as excellent and 2 as good. All of the patients stated that they were satisfied with their results and would undergo the procedure again. The mini-arthrotomy ankle arthrodesis with crossed interfragmental compression screw fixation appears to be a useful alternative to traditional open arthrodesis for selected patients with ankle arthritis.