Radiographic Parameters to Predict Union After Volar Percutaneous Fixation of Herbert Type B1 and B2 Scaphoid Fractures.

PURPOSE: To study the angle of screw placement in relation to the scaphoid fracture plane and its effect on union after percutaneous fixation of scaphoid waist fractures. METHODS: Twenty-four consecutive scaphoid waist fractures were retrospectively evaluated for the orientation of screws in relation to the fracture plane using a method in which the sum-of-smaller angles (SSA) in 3 different radiographs were used to correlate with time to fracture union. RESULTS: All but one patient achieved union after percutaneous fixation of the scaphoid. Another patient required revision surgery within the study period for inadequate fixation. A shortened time to union was significantly correlated to larger SSA. CONCLUSIONS: SSA may be a reasonable predictor of union after percutaneous fixation of scaphoid waist fracture. It can be reliably calculated using plain radiographs. An SSA of 190° or more correlated with union by 8 weeks postoperatively.

Combined arthroscopic management of concurrent posterior and anterior ankle pathologies.

PURPOSE: To determine the technical feasibility and preliminary clinical efficacy of performing simultaneous arthroscopic management in cases with combined posterior and anterior ankle pathologies utilizing previously described standard arthroscopic procedures within a single surgical sitting. METHODS: Nineteen consecutive patients with combined anterior and posterior ankle pathologies were included in the current study, after at least 6 months of failed conservative managements. Combined standard posterior and anterior ankle arthroscopy was performed in all patients within the same surgical session; first with the patient in the prone position, then with the patient turned onto the supine position to perform the anterior procedure. RESULTS: All patients were available for the follow-up; the median follow-up period was 33 months (range 22-61 months). No persistent neurological deficits or infections were recorded. The American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society Ankle and Hind foot Scale score significantly improved from 70.2 ± 15.2 points preoperatively to reach 93.0 ± 5.4 points at 1 year post-operatively (p < 0.001). Sixteen patients (84.2 %) returned to their previous activity levels. CONCLUSIONS: Combined arthroscopic management of concurrent posterior and anterior ankle pathologies within the same surgical session is initially clinically encouraging; it allows for an earlier return to activities of daily living without a significantly added morbidity. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Case series, Level IV.

Acute foot and ankle injuries and time return to sport.

Foot and ankle sports injuries encompass a wide spectrum of conditions from simple contusions or sprains that resolve within days to more severe injuries that change the trajectory of an athlete's sporting career. If missed, severe injuries could lead to prolonged absence from the sport and therefore a catastrophic impact on future performance. In this article, we discuss the presentation of the commonest foot and ankle sports injuries and share recent evidence to support an accurate diagnosis and best management practice.