Quo vadis, foot & ankle research? A review.

Over the last two decades, there has been a growing emphasis on the publication quality in Foot & Ankle research. A level-of-evidence rating system for clinical scientific papers has been proposed by the Centre for Evidence-based medicine in Oxford, United Kingdom. As opposed to other subspecialities, foot & ankle surgery deals with a wide variety of clinical problems and surgical solutions, which in turn leads to a generally low number of patients available for study groups. However, level III and IV studies still have a valuable place in orthopaedic research, given the challenges in running high-level studies.The measurement of outcomes in medicine from the patients' perspective (PROMS:(patient reported outcome measures) has grown almost exponentially in all surgical specialties including foot & ankle surgery. There are many PROMs available to foot & ankle surgeons, but there is little consensus on which assessment is most appropriate for a given procedure or diagnosis. Their use in research and clinical practice offers many advantages in clinical practice and research, however, besides the advantages there are also some downsides.

Effect of joint pathology, surface preparation and fixation methods on union frequency after first metatarsophalangeal joint arthrodesis: A systematic review of the English literature.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this systematic review was to perform a qualitative synthesis of the current literature to determine the union frequencies for first metatarsophalangeal joint arthrodesis as well as the influence of pathology, joint preparation and fixation methods on union. METHODS: MEDLINE and EMBASE were searched to identify relevant studies reporting on first metatarsophalangeal joint union frequencies. RESULTS: 26 studies with 2059 feet met our inclusion criteria. The mean age was 60 years (range 18-84) and the mean follow-up was 32.6 months (range 1.5-156). The union frequency was 93.5% (1923/2059). The union frequencies were significantly higher when low velocity joint preparation methods were used (P<0.0001, Chi Square 22.5) and the pathology was hallux rigidus (P=0.002, Chi square 9.3). There were similarly high union frequencies with crossed screws, locking plate and non-locking plates. CONCLUSIONS: High union frequency can be expected following first metatarsophalangeal arthrodesis, especially when low velocity joint preparation methods are used in patients with hallux rigidus.

Extended plantar limb (modified) chevron osteotomy versus scarf osteotomy for hallux valgus correction: A randomised controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this RCT was to compare the extended plantar limb (modified) chevron osteotomy with the scarf osteotomy in correcting hallux valgus deformity and improving functional scores and patient satisfaction. METHODS: Patients were randomly assigned and kept blind to surgical allocation. Cases requiring additional procedures including the Akin osteotomy were excluded. Outcomes were measured at 1 year following surgery. RESULTS: 84 patients (109 feet) were analysed (60 modified chevron; 49 Scarf). The mean age was 50.7 years (75F: 9M). Post-operative intermetatarsal angle (IMA) was significantly lower in the modified chevron group (5.8° versus 6.9°, p=0.045). Hallux valgus angle and distal metatarsal articular angle were similar. The magnitude of IMA correction with the modified chevron was also significantly greater (9.1° versus 7.1°, p=0.007). Both osteotomies produced comparable MOxFQ scores and satisfaction ratings. CONCLUSION: The modified chevron was superior to the scarf osteotomy in correcting IMA in hallux valgus deformity.

What factors predict the need for further intervention following corticosteroid injection of Morton's neuroma?

BACKGROUND: This study investigated factors that may predict the need for Morton's neuroma (MN) to undergo further treatment within 2 years of a single ultrasound-guided corticosteroid injection. METHODS: A retrospective study was undertaken over a three-year period. The data was stratified into two groups: Group A - did not receive further intervention and Group B - received further treatment. We investigated age, gender, neuroma size and presence of other forefoot pathology or ipsilateral neuromas. RESULTS: 54 patients (57 feet) were reviewed. 29 feet (51%) required further treatment within 2 years (11 repeat injections, 18 surgical excisions). Binary logistic regression showed that larger neuromas (p=0.011) and younger patients (p=0.007) predicted the need for further intervention but not gender (p=0.272). The distribution of concomitant forefoot pathology and ipsilateral neuromas were similar between the two groups. CONCLUSION: Size and age appear to be predictors for further treatment of MN within 2 years of corticosteroid injection.

Diagnostic Accuracy of Clinical Tests for Morton's Neuroma Compared With Ultrasonography.

The aim of the present study was to assess the diagnostic accuracy of 7 clinical tests for Morton's neuroma (MN) compared with ultrasonography (US). Forty patients (54 feet) were diagnosed with MN using predetermined clinical criteria. These patients were subsequently referred for US, which was performed by a single, experienced musculoskeletal radiologist. The clinical test results were compared against the US findings. MN was confirmed on US at the site of clinical diagnosis in 53 feet (98%). The operational characteristics of the clinical tests performed were as follows: thumb index finger squeeze (96% sensitivity, 96% accuracy), Mulder's click (61% sensitivity, 62% accuracy), foot squeeze (41% sensitivity, 41% accuracy), plantar percussion (37% sensitivity, 36% accuracy), dorsal percussion (33% sensitivity, 26% accuracy), and light touch and pin prick (26% sensitivity, 25% accuracy). No correlation was found between the size of MN on US and the positive clinical tests, except for Mulder's click. The size of MN was significantly larger in patients with a positive Mulder's click (10.9 versus 8.5 mm, p = .016). The clinical assessment was comparable to US in diagnosing MN. The thumb index finger squeeze test was the most sensitive screening test for the clinical diagnosis of MN.

Computer-assisted navigation in knee arthroplasty: a critical appraisal.

The purpose of this review was to appraise the use of computer-assisted navigation in total knee arthroplasty and to assess whether this technology has improved clinical outcomes. Studies were identified through searches in MEDLINE, Embase, and PubMed. Numerous studies have shown improved leg and component alignment using navigation systems. However, the better alignment achieved in navigated knee arthroplasty has not been shown to lead to better clinical outcomes. Navigated knee arthroplasty had lower calculated blood loss and lower incidence of fat embolism compared with conventional knee arthroplasty using intramedullary jigs. It may be most valued when dealing with complex knee deformities, revision surgery, or minimally invasive surgery. Navigated knee arthroplasty, however, is only cost-effective in centers with a high volume of joint replacements. Overall, computer-assisted navigated knee arthroplasty provides some advantages over conventional surgery, but its clinical benefits to date are unclear and remain to be defined on a larger scale.

Combined femoral and sciatic nerve block vs combined femoral and periarticular infiltration in total knee arthroplasty: a randomized controlled trial.

This study tests the null hypothesis that there is no difference between sciatic nerve block (SNB) and periarticular anesthetic infiltration (PI) as adjuncts to femoral nerve blockade (FNB) in total knee arthroplasty in terms of postoperative opioid requirements. Fifty-two patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty were randomized to receive either (a) combined FNB-SNB or (b) combined FNB-PI. Average morphine consumption in the first 24 (20 vs 23 mg) and 48 hours (26 vs 33 mg) showed no significant difference. Visual Analogue Scale scores, knee flexion (60° vs 67.5°) and extension lag (0° vs 5°) were comparable. Anesthetic time, surgical time, and length of hospital stay (5.5 vs 6 days) were similar. This study showed no significant difference between the 2 groups. The PI offers a practical and potentially safer alternative to SNB.

Maximum surgical blood ordering schedules for revision lower limb arthroplasty.

BACKGROUND: Effective utilisation of blood products is fundamental. The introduction of maximum surgical blood ordering schedules (MSBOS) for operations has been shown to improve transfusion services. A retrospective analysis was undertaken to establish an evidence-based MSBOS for revision total hip replacement (THR) and total knee revision (TKR). The impact of this schedule on blood conservation was analysed. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was undertaken on 397 patients who underwent revision THR and TKR over a 4-year period. The cross-match-to-transfusion ratio (CTR) and transfusion index (TI) were calculated. A MSBOS protocol was created based on the TIs and its' impact on transfusion services was assessed prospectively on 125 patients by comparing CTRs. RESULTS: In revision THR, TI was 1.19 for elective cases, 1.55 for emergency cases and 2.35 for infected cases. There was no difference in TI for revisions of cemented and uncemented components. Single component THR revision required less transfusion. In revision TKR, TI was 0.31 for elective cases, 2.0 for emergency cases and 1.23 for cases with infection. The introduction of the MSBOS protocol had resulted in a considerable improvement in blood ordering. Reductions in the CTR were seen for all types of revision surgery, but most evident in elective revision THR (3.24-2.18) and elective revision TKR (7.95-1.2). CONCLUSIONS: Analysis confirmed that excessive cross-matching occurred for revision lower limb arthroplasty. The introduction of our MSBOS protocol promoted blood conservation and compliance with established national guidelines.

Patient reported outcomes and satisfaction following single incision Flexor Hallucis Longus (FHL) augmentation for chronic Achilles tendon pathologies.

BACKGROUND: Various procedures exist to augment or reconstruct the Achilles tendon (AT) in patients suffering from chronic pathologies. The aim of this study is to assess patient reported outcomes and satisfaction following single incision FHL augmentation using a short tendon harvest with interference screw fixation. METHODS: This is a multicentre case series where postoperative patient reported outcome and satisfaction scores were collected on 30 patients. Outcome measures included EQ-5D, EQ-VAS, Achilles Tendon Rupture Scores (ATRS), and satisfaction scores. Scores were also collected on the unaffected limbs for comparison. RESULTS: Mean patient age was 61 years (range 40-79, SD 11). Mean EQ-5D index value was 0.750 (0.100-1.00, SD 0.238), and mean EQ-VAS score was 74 (36-99, SD 15), at a mean follow-up of 57 months (4-118, SD 32). For patients with ≥24 months' follow-up, a mean deficit of 16 ATRS points was found between the operated and unaffected limb. Overall satisfaction was over 86%. In cases of chronic AT rupture, younger age and increasing time from initial injury to surgery were predictors of greater residual deficit. No serious complications or failures occurred. CONCLUSIONS: FHL augmentation using short tendon harvest and interference screw fixation is a safe treatment option. It appears to take at least 24 months to functionally recover following this procedure, and despite a residual function deficit, there is a high level of patient satisfaction. Further studies are required to determine optimal patient selection and timing of surgery.

Revision total hip replacement: predictors of blood loss, transfusion requirements, and length of hospitalisation.

BACKGROUND: Revision total hip replacement (THR) is associated with increased blood loss and extended hospitalization. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We reviewed 146 patients who underwent revision THR to identify predictors of blood loss, transfusion requirements, and length of hospitalization. RESULTS: Blood loss was greater with increasing age and in men. Femoral and dual-component revision and revision of cemented hip components were also associated with greater blood loss. Transfusion requirements were greater in patients who had lower preoperative hemoglobin concentration and in patients undergoing dual-component revision. Length of hospitalization was significantly increased in patients who received transfusion but less in patients who underwent isolated acetabular-component hip revision. CONCLUSIONS: This study shows significantly greater blood loss in men, older patients, revision surgery of cemented implants, and dual-component revisions. More complex revision surgery and preoperative anemia are clearly associated with increased transfusion requirements and length of hospitalization. Identification and treatment of patients at higher risk of transfusion may guide likely transfusion requirements, shorten the length of hospitalization, and reduce the overall cost of treatment.

Does size of tendon gap affect patient-reported outcome following Achilles tendon rupture treated with functional rehabilitation?

AIMS: Functional rehabilitation has become an increasingly popular treatment for Achilles tendon rupture (ATR), providing comparably low re-rupture rates to surgery, while avoiding risks of surgical complications. Limited evidence exists on whether gap size should affect patient selection for this treatment option. The aim of this study was to assess if size of gap between ruptured tendon ends affects patient-reported outcome following ATR treated with functional rehabilitation. METHODS: Analysis of prospectively collected data on all 131 patients diagnosed with ATR at Royal Berkshire Hospital, UK, from August 2016 to January 2019 and managed non-operatively was performed. Diagnosis was confirmed on all patients by dynamic ultrasound scanning and gap size measured with ankle in full plantarflexion. Functional rehabilitation using an established protocol was the preferred treatment. All non-operatively treated patients with completed Achilles Tendon Rupture Scores (ATRS) at a minimum of 12 months following injury were included. RESULTS: In all, 82 patients with completed ATRS were included in the analysis. Their mean age was 51 years (standard deviation (SD) 14). The mean ATRS was 76 (SD 19) at a mean follow-up of 20 months (SD 11) following injury. Gap inversely affected ATRS with a Pearson's correlation of -0.30 (p = 0.008). Mean ATRS was lower with gaps > 5 mm compared with ≤ 5 mm (73 (SD 21) vs 82 (SD 16); p = 0.031). Mean ATRS was lowest (70 (SD 23)) with gaps > 10 mm, with significant differences in perceived strength and pain. The overall re-rupture rate was two out of 131 (1.5%). CONCLUSION: Increasing gap size predicts lower patient-reported outcome, as measured by ATRS. Tendon gap > 5 mm may be a useful predictor in physically demanding individuals, and tendon gap > 10 mm for those with low physical demand. Further studies that control for gap size when comparing non-operative and operative treatment are required to assess if these patients may benefit from surgery, particularly when balanced against the surgical risks. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(11):1535-1541.

Cement extrusion during hip arthroplasty causing pain and obturator nerve impingement.

Cement extrusion during total hip arthroplasty is a common finding and is usually harmless. A rare case of obturator nerve impingement causing pain and atrophy of the adductor muscles of the hip is described. The computed tomographic images revealed an atrophied thigh adductor compartment. Injection of local anesthetic/steroid around the cement mass under computed tomographic guidance relieved the symptoms briefly. The cement mass was excised, and complete recovery was achieved. Persistent pain and muscle weakness after total hip arthroplasty with evidence of extruded cement may indicate this complication. Injection of local anesthetic/steroid under image guidance can help elucidate this diagnosis and provide a pain-relieving effect.

Iatrogenic full-thickness chemical burns from monochloracetic acid.

A case of iatrogenic full-thickness chemical burns from monochloroacetic acid (MCA) crystal application is described, followed by a brief review of the relevant literature and discussion of both local and systemic problems that may be encountered with absorption of this chemical. We believe this to be the first reported case of full-thickness burns in association with MCA. The degree of injury and systemic side effects encountered as a procedure complication highlights the importance of using this chemical with care in any clinical setting. In addition, an apparent predilection of MCA for the germinal matrix as found in this case may further complicate reconstructive options for associated injuries.