Operative management of Charcot neuropathy of the foot and ankle: A retrospective cohort study of long-term outcomes.

Treatment of Charcot neuroarthropathy (CN) of the foot and ankle remains challenging for both patients and surgeons. Nonoperative treatment with cast/orthosis immobilization has long been the main treatment, but surgical intervention has gained interest to improve poor long-term outcomes. Few long-term outcome studies exist on operative management of CN. A retrospective chart review was performed to analyze demographics, comorbidities, complications, and outcomes of operative management of CN. Patients were divided into two cohorts for analysis: limited surgical intervention (LSI) and reconstructive surgery (RS). Fifty-eight patients with CN treated surgically over 11 years were identified. Average follow-up was 46 months (range, 1 to 173 months). The mean age was 60.2 (range, 29 to 81) years, and the average body mass index was 34.3. Diabetes caused CN in 72.4 % (42/58) of patients. The LSI cohort (n = 32) had significantly higher rates of presenting infection (59.4 %; 19/32) and ulceration (87.5 %; 28/32) compared with the RS cohort (n = 26; 23.1 % [6/26] and 50 % [13/26], respectively). Rates of postoperative infection and ulceration were lower in the LSI group (25 % [8/32] and 34.4 % [11/32], respectively) than the RS group (42.3 % [11/26] and 42.3 % [11/26], respectively). The amputation rate for the LSI cohort was 21.9 % (7/32) compared with 23.1 % (6/26) for RS. This large, single-center study of operatively treated CN patients showed no significant difference between LSI and RS. This study provides data to help surgeons counsel patients on expected outcomes.

The chevron bunionectomy for moderate to severe hallux valgus deformity: Effects of procedural factors on hallux valgus correction.

BACKGROUND: Effects of procedural factors on chevron bunionectomy outcomes were studied. METHODS: Included were 109 feet with distal chevron osteotomy and preoperative intermetatarsal angle (IMA) greater than 15 degrees. IMA and hallux valgus angles (HVA), release type, fixation, second-digit procedures, and risk factors were evaluated. RESULTS: Eighty-three percent (91/109 feet) had satisfactory outcomes; nine had moderate pain. From preoperative, IMA improved 7.2 and HVA 20.5 degrees. Risk factors or second-digit procedures had no effect. Lateral release improved IMA (p < 0.01), with no difference between open lateral and transarticular release; 86% percent (64/74) were satisfied with open lateral release compared with 83% (19/23) and 66% (8/12) with no release and transarticular release, respectively. Fixation did not affect outcomes. CONCLUSION: Chevron bunionectomy corrected IMA and HVA to normal with few complications. Lateral release increased IMA correction. Transarticular release had lower satisfaction than open lateral release or no release. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, retrospective.

Analysis of Wheeled Knee Walker Use following Foot and Ankle Surgery or Injury.

To determine patient satisfaction and safety with wheeled knee walkers, we performed a retrospective, observational, and descriptive study. Inclusion criteria were age ≥18 years, unilateral foot or ankle surgery, non-weightbearing status, and being given the option of using the knee walker. Surveys were sent to eligible patients, and chart review included only those patients who returned surveys. Primary endpoints were occurrence and frequency of falls. Secondary endpoints were patient demographics, comorbidities, knee walker characteristics, duration of use, and patient satisfaction. We also attempted to identify associations between falls and patient characteristics. Eighty participants, 51 females and 29 males, responded adequately to the survey. The mean age of respondents was 55.6 ± 13.0 years and their mean body mass index (BMI) was 30.2 ± 5.9 kg/m2. Most used a steerable, 4-wheeled knee walker. Almost half (46%) had no prior experience with any type of walking aids, and none had experience using a knee walker. Two thirds (66%) did not receive any instruction on usage of the knee walker. Thirty-four (43%) of the 80 respondents fell while using the knee walker; nearly two thirds (62%) of those who fell reported multiple falls. Sixteen (55%) of 29 males compared to 18 (36%) of 50 females reported falling (p = .097). There was no statistical association between falls and age, BMI, or number of comorbidities. Most respondents (91%) who fell still reported satisfaction with the knee walker. Nearly half (43%) experienced falling, and nearly two thirds (64%) of those who fell had multiple falls.

Surgical Outcomes in Charcot Arthropathy.

Treatment of Charcot neuroarthropathy (CN) of the foot and ankle remains challenging for both patients and surgeons. Nonoperative treatment with cast/orthosis immobilization has long been the mainstay of treatment, but surgical intervention has gained interest to improve poor long-term outcomes. A review of existing data on the operative management of CN demonstrates the potential benefits but also the continued risks associated with treatment. Additionally, a retrospective review of cohorts managed with limited surgical interventions (wound debridements, exostectomies, and other surgical procedures) compared to reconstructive procedures provides additional insight into the surgical management of CN.

Cost Analysis and Reimbursement of Weightbearing Computed Tomography.

Background: Weightbearing computed tomography (WBCT) is becoming a valuable tool in the evaluation of foot and ankle pathology. Currently, cost analyses of WBCT scanners in private practice are lacking in the literature. This study evaluated the costs of acquisition, utilization, and reimbursements for a WBCT at a tertiary referral center, information of particular interest to practices considering obtaining such equipment. Methods: All WBCT scans performed at a tertiary referral center over the 55-month period (August 2016 to February 2021) were retrospectively evaluated. Patient demographics, pathology location, etiology, subspecialty of the ordering provider, and whether the study was unilateral or bilateral were collected. Reimbursement was calculated based on payor source as a percentage of Medicare reimbursement for lower extremity CT. The number of total scans performed per month was evaluated to determine revenue generated per month. Results: Over the study period, 1903 scans were performed. An average of 34.6 scans were performed each month. Forty-one providers ordered WBCT scans over the study period. Foot and ankle fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeons ordered 75.5% of all scans. The most common location of pathology was the ankle, and the most common etiology was trauma. The device was cost neutral at 44.2 months, assuming reimbursement for each study was commensurate with Medicare rates. The device became cost neutral at approximately 29.9 months when calculating reimbursement according to mixed-payor source. Conclusion: As WBCT scan becomes more widely used for evaluation of foot and ankle pathology, practices may be interested in understanding the financial implications of such an investment. To the authors' knowledge, this study is the only cost-effectiveness analysis of WBCT based in the United States. We found that in a large, multispecialty orthopaedic group, WBCT can be a financially viable asset and a valuable diagnostic tool for a variety of pathologies. Level of Evidence: Level III, diagnostic.

Current concept review: vitamin D and stress fractures.

Critical review of the available evidence indicates that a relationship exists between sufficient vitamin D status and stress fractures, although genetic and environmental factors are involved as well. Patients at high risk for stress fracture should be educated on protective training techniques and the potential benefits of supplementation with combined calcium and vitamin D, particularly if increased exercise is planned during winter or spring months, when vitamin D stores are at their lowest. The amount of vitamin D intake required is highly variable depending on many factors including sun exposure, and therefore many recommendations have been made for daily vitamin D intake requirements. While the Institute of Medicine guidelines suggest that 600 to 800 IU of vitamin D are required for adequate bone health in most adults, we recommend that most patients receive 800 to 1,000 IU and perhaps as high as 2,000 IU of vitamin D3 as outlined by the previously mentioned review article since vitamin D is a safe treatment with a high therapeutic index. Also, at least 1,000 mg of calcium per day is required for optimal bone health and 1,200 mg may be needed in certain populations. Orthopaedists should consider prescribing vitamin D and calcium prophylactically in high-risk patients. In patients in whom deficiency is a concern, serum 25(OH)D level is the appropriate screening test, with therapeutic goals for bone health being at least 50 nmol/L (20 ng/mL) and may be as high as 90 to 100 nmol/L (36 to 40 ng/mL).

Understanding Penicillin Allergy, Cross-reactivity, and Antibiotic Selection in the Preoperative Setting.

Penicillin allergies are reported by 8% to 15% of the US population, but up to 95% of these allergies do not correspond to a true allergy when tested. Recent studies have demonstrated that having a penicillin allergy label (PAL) results in a 50% increased odds of surgical site infection among patients reporting a penicillin allergy entirely attributable to the use of a beta-lactam alternative antibiotic (primarily clindamycin or vancomycin). This study provides a review of the prevalence of PAL, the cross-reactivity with cefazolin, immunogenic components of cefazolin and penicillin, and current guidelines for preoperative antibiotic selection in patients with PALs. On understanding these principles, a new set of guidelines and a risk stratification tool are proposed for assessing allergies and determining appropriate antibiotic choice, dosage, and timing in the orthopaedic preoperative setting.

Volume and Variability of Foot and Ankle Case Exposure During Orthopaedic Residency: 2014-2019.

BACKGROUND: Exposure to a comprehensive breadth and volume of surgical cases is a fundamental component of orthopaedic education, though standardization of case exposures across residency programs is limited to a small amount of required case minimums. Significant variability in exposure to subspecialty cases, such as foot and ankle surgeries, can create distinctly different residency experiences. METHODS: Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) surgical case logs from 2014 to 2019 for leg/ankle and foot/toes were examined following the 2013 implementation of case minimums. Average surgical case volume across subcategories and the average volume of different residency percentiles were analyzed to assess variability. RESULTS: The mean total volume of case exposure for graduating orthopaedic residents has increased significantly since 2014 for both leg/ankle cases (28.6%) and foot/toes (27.8%), though totals were still down compared with when ACGME reporting began in 2007. Arthrodesis exposures have increased significantly for leg/ankle (69.2%) and foot/toes (93.8%) cases since 2014, and ankle arthroscopy has increased 20.7%. Disparities in total cases between 10th and 90th percentile programs have shown a nonsignificant decrease over time, with significant differences between leg/ankle arthrodesis (8-fold), leg/ankle arthroscopy (13-fold), and foot/toe arthrodesis (3.5-fold) in 2019. CONCLUSION: The mean volume of foot and ankle case exposures among graduating residents has continued to rise since the implementation of case minimums in 2013 but disparities in volume are present, most notably concerning arthrodesis and arthroscopy. Recognition and future attention toward addressing this variability can be meaningful in promoting a more comprehensive, standardized orthopaedics education. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III: Retrospective comparative study.

Efficacy of Postoperative Oral Antibiotics in Foot and Ankle Surgery.

BACKGROUND: Preoperative oral antibiotic use in patients undergoing foot and ankle surgery is standard practice, but no consensus has been reached regarding the efficacy of postoperative oral antibiotics. The purpose of this study was to determine whether postoperative oral antibiotics reduce the rate of surgical site infections (SSIs) in patients, with and without comorbidities, undergoing foot and ankle surgery. METHODS: A retrospective chart review was conducted identifying patients who underwent foot and ankle surgery by 4 fellowship-trained, foot and ankle orthopaedic surgeons between January 1, 2015, and January 1, 2019. Patients were divided into 2 groups: those who received postoperative oral antibiotics (group 1) and those who did not (group 2). Two surgeons routinely prescribed postoperative oral antibiotics, and 2 did not. Demographics, comorbidities, and procedure complexity based on surgical site and Current Procedural Terminology code were recorded from the charts. The primary outcome was postoperative infection (superficial or deep) within 6 months after surgery. Patients with antibiotic use prior to surgery, preoperative infection, or lack of follow-up >6 weeks were excluded. Multivariate logistic regression modeling was used to analyze differences in infection rate and severity. RESULTS: Chart review identified 3631 patients, 1227 of whom did not receive postoperative oral antibiotics whereas 2394 patients did. Routine postoperative oral antibiotic use did not significantly affect postoperative infection rates or severity. However, all covariates studied (diabetes, hypertension, obesity, tobacco use, alcohol use, rheumatoid conditions, and age) influenced postoperative infection rates and severity. CONCLUSION: The results of this study indicate that postoperative oral antibiotics are not associated with differences in infection rates or severity. We do not recommend routine use in foot and ankle surgery.

The Weekend Warrior: Common Foot and Ankle Injuries in Recreational Athletes.

Weekend warriors are recreational athletes who compress their physical activity into 1-2 weekly exercise sessions. The characteristic combination of general deconditioning and excessive activity can predispose these individuals to a multitude of foot and ankle injuries. The purpose of this review is to highlight the etiology and management of common foot and ankle injuries in recreational athletes.

Race and Insurance Status Association With Receiving Orthopedic Surgeon-Prescribed Foot Orthoses.

BACKGROUND: This study looked at the effect of patient demographics, insurance status, education, and patient opinion on whether various orthotic footwear prescribed for a variety of diagnoses were received by the patient. The study also assessed the effect of the orthoses on relief of symptoms. METHODS: Chart review documented patient demographics, diagnoses, and medical comorbidities. Eligible patients completed a survey either while in the clinic or by phone after their clinic visit. RESULTS: Of the 382 patients prescribed orthoses, 235 (61.5%) received their orthoses; 186 (48.7%) filled out the survey. Race and whether or not the patient received the orthosis were found to be significant predictors of survey completion. Race, type of insurance, and amount of orthotic cost covered by insurance were significant predictors of whether or not patients received their prescribed orthoses. Type of orthosis, diabetes as a comorbidity, education, income, sex, and diagnosis were not significant predictors of whether the patient received the orthosis. Qualitative results from the survey revealed that among those receiving their orthoses, 87% experienced improvement in symptoms: 21% felt completely relieved, 66% felt better, 10% felt no different, and 3% felt worse. CONCLUSION: We found that white patients had almost 3 times the odds of receiving prescribed orthoses as black patients, even after controlling for type of insurance, suggesting race to be the primary driver of discrepancies, raising the question of what can be done to address these inequalities. While large, systematic change will be necessary, some strategies can be employed by those working directly in patient care, such as informing primary care practices of their ability to see patients with limited insurance, limiting blanket refusal policies for government insurance, and educating office staff on how to efficiently work with Medicare and Medicaid. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, comparative study.

"Locked-Lateral" Calcaneal Fracture-Dislocation Treated with Primary Subtalar Fusion: A Case Report.

CASE REPORT: A 65-year-old man presented with pain in his left ankle. After a delay, he presented to the orthopaedic clinic where computed tomography scan revealed an intra-articular, locked-lateral calcaneal fracture with dislocation of the peroneal tendons. CONCLUSIONS: This combination of injuries can produce subtle signs, such as an atypical double-density sign and varus talar tilt, on plain radiographs; however, the consequences of delayed treatment can be catastrophic. Early recognition and treatment are essential to avoid chronic pain and limited function.

Evaluation of the hallux morbidity of single-incision flexor hallucis longus tendon transfer.

BACKGROUND: Achilles tendinosis and chronic Achilles tendon ruptures are relatively frequently encountered by orthopaedic surgeons. One treatment for patients who fail to respond to conservative management involves augmentation of the repair with transfer of the flexor hallucis longus (FHL), using either a single-incision or double-incision technique. Despite the frequency of this procedure, little is known about the associated donor morbidity. We report the effects of the single-incision technique on hallux function. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed 48 patients who underwent a single-incision FHL tendon transfer for chronic Achilles tendon rupture or Achilles tendinosis. Twenty-two patients (mean followup, 28 months) completed the study. The average age was 56 years. Outcome measures included the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hallux metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint and interphalangeal (IP) joint scores, the Health Related Quality of Life Measures Short Form (SF-36). Also, the average of two pedobarographic measurements of both feet and strength testing of the FHL of both feet were recorded. RESULTS: Decreased distal phalangeal pressure and FHL weakness were demonstrated (p < 0.05). No difference was noted in plantar pressure of the first or second metatarsal head. The high score on the AOFAS hallux MTP-IP scale demonstrated improved patient forefoot function after FHL transfer through a single-incision technique. CONCLUSION: Flexor hallucis longus tendon transfer using a single-incision technique results in decreased flexion power at the IP joint as demonstrated by decreased distal phalangeal pulp pressure; however, this appears to be a laboratory finding as patient function remains high.

Smoking Effects in Foot and Ankle Surgery: An Evidence-Based Review.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this article was to review the basic science pertaining to the harmful effects of cigarette smoke, summarize recent clinical outcome studies, and examine the benefits of smoking cessation and the efficacy of current smoking cessation strategies. METHODS: The literature concerning basic science, clinical outcomes, and smoking cessation was reviewed; over half (56%) of the 52 articles reviewed were published in the last 5 years. RESULTS: Smoking is associated with low bone mineral density, delayed fracture union, peri-implant bone loss, and implant failure. Orthopedic surgical patients who smoke have increased pain and lower overall patient satisfaction, along with significantly increased rates of wound healing complications. DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION: Active smoking is a significant modifiable risk factor and should be discontinued before foot and ankle surgery whenever possible. Orthopedic surgeons play an important role in educating patients on the effects of smoking and facilitating access to smoking cessation resources. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level V, expert opinion.

Long-term evaluation of interdigital neuroma treated by surgical excision.

BACKGROUND: We examined a large cohort of patients who had interdigital neurectomy and evaluated their clinical outcomes by using a previously developed scoring system as well as a visual analog scale (VAS). In addition, we wanted to identify risk factors that may lead to poorer outcomes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective review identified 232 patients who had neuroma excision between 1994 and 2004, after failure of conservative treatment. Each patient was contacted via mail and given a Neuroma Clinical Evaluation Score survey as well as a visual analog score. Each patient received a unique identification number, allowing the evaluation process to be single-blinded. RESULTS: Of the 232 patients contacted, 120 (52%) returned their completed surveys. The average Giannini neuroma score was 53: 61 feet (51%) had good or excellent results, 12 (10%) had fair results, and 48 (40%) had poor results. The average VAS score was 2.5. The only significant (p = 0.027) difference in outcome was the location of the neuroma: second webspace had worse outcomes than third webspace neuromas on both the VAS and neuroma score. CONCLUSION: This retrospective review identified location in the second webspace as a possible prognostic indicator of poor outcome, but the more important finding may be that outcomes of neuroma excision do not appear to be as successful at long-term followup as previously reported.

Preoperative Risk Factors for Complications in Elective Ankle and Hindfoot Reconstruction.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to examine medical, social, and psychological factors associated with complications and reoperation after foot and ankle reconstruction. METHODS: A retrospective chart review was conducted of 132 patients (135 feet; 139 operative cases) who had elective foot and ankle reconstruction. Medical, social, and psychological variables were documented. Primary outcomes included complications and reoperations. RESULTS: The overall complication rate was 28% (39/139), and the reoperation rate was 17% (24/139). Alcohol use (P = .03) and preoperative narcotic use (P = .02) were risk factors for complications, with delayed wound healing more frequent in alcohol users (P = .03) and deep infection (P = .045) and nonunion (P = .046) more frequent preoperative narcotic use. Deep infection also was more frequent in tobacco users (P < .01). Older patients were less likely to undergo reoperation (risk of reoperation increased with age). Other variables were not associated with increased complications. CONCLUSION: Patients who consumed alcohol or had been prescribed any amount of narcotic within 3 months preoperatively were at increased risk for complications. Patients who smoked were more likely to have a wound infection. Surgeons should be aware of these factors and counsel patients before surgery. LEVELS OF EVIDENCE: Level III: Retrospective comparative study.

Orthopedic Surgical Options for Joint Cartilage Repair and Restoration.

The limited natural capacity for articular cartilage to regenerate has led to a continuously broadening array of surgical interventions. Used once patients' symptoms are not relieved by nonoperative management, these share the goals of joint preservation and restoration. Techniques include bone marrow stimulation, whole-tissue transplantation, and cell-based strategies, each with its own variations. Many of these interventions are performed arthroscopically or with extended-portal techniques. Indications, operative techniques, unique benefits, and limitations are presented.

Effect of Obesity on Outcomes of Forefoot Surgery.

BACKGROUND: Forefoot surgery typically is elective, so it is important to define risk factors to educate patients on potential complications. The purpose of this study was to determine if obesity is an independent risk factor that contributes to increased complication rates after forefoot surgery. METHODS: Through a retrospective review of records, 633 patients were identified who had forefoot surgery at one institution between 2008 and 2010. All patients who currently smoked or smoked in the past were excluded to eliminate a confounding factor, as smoking is known to increase complication rates, leaving 427 patients for inclusion, 299 nonobese (BMI less than 30) and 128 obese (BMI more than 30). Medical records were reviewed for the occurrence of complications, including nonunion, delayed union, delayed wound healing, infection, and persistent pain. RESULTS: The overall complication rate was 9%, with similar rates between obese (10%) and nonobese patients (9%). The only specific complication approaching significance (P = .13) was a higher rate of infection in obese patients (4 % compared to 1%), which could be attributed to the higher percentage of diabetic patients in the obese group. Diabetic patients, regardless of weight, had significantly higher rates of infection (P = .03), with a trend toward higher rates of overall complications and delayed wound healing (P = .08 and P < .06, respectively). CONCLUSION: Obesity was not shown to lead to more frequent complications after forefoot surgery. Diabetes was associated with significantly higher rates of infection, regardless of weight. Though not significant, there was a trend toward higher rates of overall complications and delayed wound healing in diabetic patients as well. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, retrospective comparative study.

Psychosocial Risk Factors for Postoperative Pain in Ankle and Hindfoot Reconstruction.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to examine factors associated with pain after elective ankle and hindfoot reconstruction. METHODS: Patients who underwent major ankle or hindfoot reconstruction over a 3-year period were identified. Retrospective chart review determined patient demographics, comorbidities, surgeries, tobacco, alcohol, and narcotic use, chronic pain, and mood disorders. Primary outcomes were cumulative amount of narcotic prescribed (morphine milligram equivalent dose) in the initial 90-day postoperative period, beyond 90 days, and visual analog pain score (VAS) at a minimum of 1-year follow-up. One hundred thirty-two patients (139 operations) met the inclusion criteria. RESULTS: The average narcotic amount prescribed in the initial 90 days after surgery was 1711 mg (morphine equivalent), and narcotic prescriptions were required after 52 surgeries (35%) past 90 days. Preoperative narcotic use (P < .01), chronic pain disorder (P = .02), and mood disorder (P < .01) were significant risk factors for continued narcotic use past 90 days. Tobacco use (P = .01) and chronic pain disorder (P < .01) also were significant risk factors for increased initial postoperative narcotic use. The average VAS score in 91 patients at an average of 2.7-year follow-up was 2.1. Mood disorder was a risk factor for increased VAS (P < .01). No other associations were noted. CONCLUSION: Patients being treated for chronic pain, diagnosed with a mood disorder, taking any amount of narcotics preoperatively, or using tobacco products had a statistically significant increased risk for pain postoperatively. The presence of risk factors should prompt physicians to discuss pain management strategies before surgery. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, comparative series.

Business and Practice Management Knowledge Deficiencies in Graduating Orthopedic Residents.

We conducted a study to determine the general level of knowledge that orthopedic residents have on business and practice management topics at graduation and to evaluate the level of knowledge that practicing orthopedic surgeons need in order to function effectively in a medical practice. Residency graduates from a single training program were asked to complete a survey that gathered demographic information and had surgeons rate their understanding of 9 general business and practice management skills and the importance of these skills in their current practice situation. The amount of necessary business knowledge they lacked at graduation was defined as a functional knowledge deficiency (FKD) and was calculated as the difference between the reported importance of a topic in current practice and the level of understanding of that topic at graduation (larger FKD indicates greater deficiency). Those in physician-managed practices reported significantly higher levels of understanding of economic analytical tools than those in nonphysician-managed practices. There were no other statistically significant differences among groups. Hospital-employed physicians had the lowest overall FKD (4.0), followed by those in academic practices (5.1) and private practices (5.9). Graduating orthopedic surgeons appear to be inadequately prepared to effectively manage business issues in their practices, as evidenced by the low overall knowledge levels and high FKDs.