[Arthrodesis of the First Metatarsophalangeal Joint by Locking Plate]. / Artrodéza I. metatarzofalangeálního kloubu úhlove stabilní dlahou.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY The authors in their paper evaluate a group of patients who underwent arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint using a locking plate. MATERIAL AND METHODS In the period 2010-2015, we performed surgery in 51 patients (56 forefeet), of which in 5 cases bilaterally and in 46 cases unilaterally, in 38 women and 13 men. The mean age was 57.8 years, the mean follow-up was 3.1 years. The indications for surgery were hallux rigidus in 23 patients, hallux valgus in 15 patients, hallux varus in 3 patients, and hallux erectus in 2 patients. In 4 patients the surgery was performed for valgus deformity associated with rheumatoid arthritis, 9 patients were indicated for a failure of the prior surgical intervention. In all 56 forefeet, the anatomic, low-profile titanium plate Variable Angle LCP 1st MTP Fusion Plate 2.4/2.7 was used. RESULTS According to Gainor s score the surgical outcomes were assessed as excellent in 46 patients who underwent surgery (90%), good in 4 patients (8%), fair in 1 patient (2%), and poor in 0 patient (0%). In 53 forefeet, the control radiographs showed solid bone union. In 2 patients and 3 forefeet, non-union of the arthrodesis occurred. In 2 forefeet, revision arthrodesis was performed, after which solid bone union followed. Malpositioned union was reported in 5 forefeet, of which in 4 cases into valgosity and in 1 case into dorsiflexion. DISCUSSION Numerous fixation materials can be used for arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint. The use of the least stable Kirschner wires (cerclage) is being abandoned and substituted with a more stable fixation by screws, memory staples and locking plates. The achievement of excellent results requires proper positioning of the arthrodesis. Impingement syndrome between the big toe and the second toe can result in painful callosities formation, too large dorsiflexion can lead to a hallux hammertoe, with reduced big toe support function, to metatarsalgia. CONCLUSIONS The arthrodesis is indicated in patients with Grade III and IV hallux rigidus, with severe hallux valgus, hallux varus, and in patients in whom the previous surgeries failed. We tend to prefer stable arthrodesis. Fixation by anatomic LCP plate facilitates early rehabilitation, loading and early return to work and sports activities. Key words: arthrodesis, metatarsophalangeal joint, hallux rigidus, hallux valgus.

A Multicenter, Retrospective Study of Early Weightbearing for Modified Lapidus Arthrodesis.

The modified Lapidus arthrodesis is a long-established surgical technique for management of hallux valgus that provides reproducible results and quality patient outcomes. The data from 367 consecutive patients undergoing unilateral modified Lapidus arthrodesis from January 1, 2007 to December 31, 2008 at participating centers were retrospectively evaluated. The included patients were categorized into early weightbearing (≤ 21 days) and delayed weightbearing (> 21 days) groups. A total of 24 nonunions (6.5%) were identified, with 13 (7.1%) in the early weightbearing group and 11 (6.0%) in the delayed weightbearing group. To date, the present study is the largest multicenter investigation to evaluate early weightbearing after modified Lapidus arthrodesis and the only large study to directly compare early and delayed weightbearing. The findings of the present study have shown that early weightbearing for modified Lapidus arthrodesis does not increase the risk of nonunion when evaluating various fixation constructs.

Update on the surgical treatment for rheumatoid arthritis of the wrist and hand.

Surgical procedures for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis are aimed at restoring function and decreasing pain. Over the past four decades multiple procedures have been described in the management of early and late disease. This article will review the most common forms of surgery used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.

Total ankle arthroplasty versus ankle arthrodesis. Comparison of sports, recreational activities and functional outcome.

PURPOSE: Ankle arthrodesis (AAD) and total ankle replacement (TAR) are the major surgical treatment options for severe ankle arthritis. There is an ongoing discussion in the orthopaedic community whether ankle arthrodesis or ankle fusion should be the treatment of choice for end stage osteoarthritis. The purpose of this study was to compare the participation in sports and recreational activities in patients who underwent either AAD or TAR for end-stage osteoarthritis of the ankle. METHODS: A total of 41 patients (21 ankle arthrodesis /20 TAR) were examined at 34.5 (SD18.0) months after surgery. At follow-up, pre- and postoperative participation in sports and recreational activities has been assessed. Activity levels were determined using the ankle activity score according to Halasi et al. and the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) activity scale. Clinical and functional outcome was assessed using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot score. The percentage of patients participating in sports and recreational activities, UCLA score and AOFAS score were compared between both treatment groups. RESULTS: In the AAD group 86% were active in sports preoperatively and in the TAR group this number was 76%. Postoperatively in both groups 76% were active in sports (AAD, p = 0.08). The UCLA score was 7.0 (± 1.9) in the AAD group and 6.8 (± 1.8) in the TAR group (p = 0.78). The AOFAS score reached 75.6 (± 14) in the AAD group and 75.6 (± 16) in the TAR group (p = 0.97). The ankle activity score decrease was statistically significant for both groups (p = 0.047). CONCLUSIONS: Our study revealed no significant difference between the groups concerning activity levels, participation in sports activities, UCLA and AOFAS score. After AAD the number of patients participating in sports decreased. However, this change was not statistically significant.

In-hospital rehabilitation after multiple joint procedures of the lower extremities in haemophilia patients: clinical guidelines for physical therapists.

This project aimed to develop guidelines for use during in-hospital rehabilitation after combinations of multiple joint procedures (MJP) of the lower extremities in persons with haemophilia (PWH). MJP are defined as surgical procedures on the ankles, knees and hips, performed in any combination, staged, or during a single session. MJP that we studied included total knee arthroplasty, total hip arthroplasty and ankle arthrodesis. Literature on rheumatoid arthritis demonstrated promising functional results, fewer hospitalization days and days lost from work. However, the complication rate is higher and rehabilitation needs optimal conditions. Since 1995, at the Van Creveldkliniek, 54 PWH have undergone MJP. During the rehabilitation in our hospital performed by experienced physical therapists, regular guidelines seemed useless. Guidelines will guarantee an optimal physical recovery and maximum benefit from this enormous investment. This will lead to an optimal functional capability and optimal quality of life for this elderly group of PWH. There are no existing guidelines for MJP, in haemophilia, revealed through a review of the literature. Therefore, a working group was formed to develop and implement such guidelines and the procedure is explained. The total group of PWH who underwent MJP is described, subdivided into combinations of joints. For these subgroups, the number of days in hospital, complications and profile at discharge, as well as a guideline on the clinical rehabilitation, are given. It contains a general part and a part for each specific subgroup.

High fusion rates with circular plate fixation for four-corner arthrodesis of the wrist.

BACKGROUND: Scaphoid excision and four-corner fusion is commonly performed to reconstruct advanced scapholunate collapse and scaphoid nonunion with collapse. Metallic plates were introduced for achieving fixation of the four carpal bones. Although the developer reported high rates of fusion, several other early reports of circular plate fixation suggest higher complication rates and inferior outcomes compared with traditional fixation techniques. QUESTIONS/PURPOSES: To clarify the controversy in the literature we determined the fusion rates, complications, and functional outcomes of patients having circular plate fixation for four-corner fusion. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed 15 patients treated for radioscaphoid arthritis with four-corner fusion using circular plate fixation. The minimum followup was 11 months (mean, 22 months; range, 11-39 months). RESULTS: Radiographic union was achieved by all 15 patients. There was only one postoperative complication. ROM was 71% and grip strength was 78% of the opposite normal side. CONCLUSIONS: Our results compare favorably with those using traditional fixation techniques. ROM measurements seem superior to those reported in the literature. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, therapeutic study. See Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Clinical evaluation of tibiocalcaneal arthrodesis with retrograde intramedullary nail fixation in diabetic patients.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate clinical and functional outcomes in diabetic patients undergoing tibiocalcaneal arthrodesis using a retrograde nail. METHODS: A total of 12 diabetic patients [8 men and 4 women; mean age at intervention: 56.8 years (range: 27-76 years)] who underwent tibiocalcaneal arthrodesis by a retrograde nail were enrolled in this study. The indication for surgery was massive talar osteonecrosis in four patients, Charcot arthropathy in another four patients, and various severe ankle/hindfoot derangements in four patients. All surgeries were performed by the same surgeon. All patients were evaluated by their American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Score (AOFAS) score, and radiographic follow-up was performed. RESULTS: The mean follow-up time was 59.5 months (range: 27-121 months). Ten patients (83.3%) healed and were able to walk with full weight bearing without crutches. Among them, nine patients (75%) achieved union with solid bone healing. The mean overall improvement in the AOFAS score was 72.5% (preoperatively: 40 points vs postoperatively: 69 points; p<0.001). We observe a complication in 50% of our patients. Minor complications included two cases of dehiscence of the surgical wound, one case of soft tissue irritation owing to hardware protrusion, and one cause of lymphedema. Two patients had deep infection and underwent surgical removal of hardware, debridement, and antibiotic treatment: one healed after the treatment but never recovered full weight bearing and the other one died from other complications. These two deep infections occurred after 23 months of follow-up. CONCLUSION: Tibiocalcaneal arthrodesis using retrograde nails is a salvage technique extremely effective in ankle and hindfoot disorders in a diabetic patient. This procedure allows good functional outcomes and pain relief. When correctly indicated, it is a safe procedure with good clinical outcomes and low risk of below-knee amputation. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, Therapeutic study.

Postoperative weightbearing following ankle arthrodesis: a systematic review.

AIMS: Postoperative rehabilitation regimens following ankle arthrodesis vary considerably. A systematic review was conducted to determine the evidence for weightbearing recommendations following ankle arthrodesis, and to compare outcomes between different regimens. PATIENTS AND METHODS: MEDLINE, Web of Science, Embase, and Scopus databases were searched for studies reporting outcomes following ankle arthrodesis, in which standardized postoperative rehabilitation regimens were employed. Eligible studies were grouped according to duration of postoperative nonweightbearing: zero to one weeks (group A), two to three weeks (group B), four to five weeks (group C), or six weeks or more (group D). Outcome data were pooled and compared between groups. Outcomes analyzed included union rates, time to union, clinical scores, and complication rates. RESULTS: A total of 60 studies (2426 ankles) were included. Mean union rates for groups A to D were 93.2%, 95.5%, 93.0%, and 93.0%, respectively. Mean time to union was 10.4 weeks, 14.5 weeks, 12.4 weeks, and 14.4 weeks for groups A to D, respectively. Mean complication rates were 22.3%, 23.0%, 27.1%, and 28.7% for groups A to D, respectively. Reporting of outcome scores was insufficient to conduct meaningful analysis. CONCLUSION: Outcomes following ankle arthrodesis appear to be similar regardless of the duration of postoperative nonweightbearing, although the existing literature is insufficient to make definitive conclusions. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2019;101-B:1256-1262.

Minimally Invasive Tibiotalocalcaneal Arthrodesis with Blocked Retrograde Intramedullary Nail - Report of Three Cases / Artrodese tibiotalocalcaneana minimamente invasiva com haste intramedular retrógrada bloqueada - Relato de três casos

Abstract Ankle osteoarthritis (AOA) is associated with pain and variable functional limitation, demanding clinical treatment and possible surgical indication when conservative measures are ineffective - arthrodesis has been the procedure of choice, because it reduces pain, restores joint alignment and makes the segment stable, preserving gait. The present study reports 3 cases (3 ankles) of male patients between 49 and 63 years old, with secondary AOA, preoperative American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society Ankle-Hindfoot Scale (AOFAS AHS) of 27 to 39 points, treated by minimally invasive tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis using blocked retrograde intramedullary nail. Hospital stay was of 1 day, and the patients were authorized for immediate loading with removable ambulation orthotics, as tolerated. The physical therapy treatment, introduced since hospitalization, was maintained, prioritizing gait training, strength gain, and proprioception. Clinical and radiographic follow-up was performed at weeks 1, 2, 6, 12 and 24. After evidence of consolidation (between the 6th and 10th weeks), the orthotics were removed. One patient complained of pain in the immediate postoperative period and, at the end of the 1st year, only one patient presented pain during rehabilitation, which was completely resolved with analgesics. Currently, the patients do not present complaints, returning to activities without restrictions - one of them, to the practice of soccer and rappelling. The postoperative AOFAS AHS was from 68 to 86 points.

Resumo A osteoartrite do tornozelo (OAT) está associada a quadro álgico e limitação funcional variável, demandando tratamento clínico e eventual indicação cirúrgica quando as medidas conservadoras são inefetivas - a artrodese tem sido o procedimento de escolha, por reduzir a dor, restaurar o alinhamento articular e tornar o segmento estável, preservando a marcha. O presente estudo relata 3 casos (3 tornozelos) de pacientes do sexo masculino, com entre 49 e 63 anos de idade, portadores de OAT secundária, American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society Ankle-Hindfoot Scale (AOFAS AHS, na sigla em inglês) pré-operatória de 27 a 39 pontos, tratados mediante artrodese tibiotalocalcaneana minimamente invasiva utilizando haste intramedular retrógrada bloqueada. A permanência hospitalar foi de 1 dia, e os pacientes foram autorizados para carga imediata com órteses removíveis para deambulação, conforme tolerado. O tratamento fisioterápico, introduzido desde o internamento, foi mantido, priorizando-se treino de marcha, ganho de força e propriocepção. Foi realizado acompanhamento clínico e radiográfico nas semanas 1, 2, 6, 12 e 24. Após evidências de consolidação (entre a 6ª e a 10ª semanas), as órteses foram retiradas. Um paciente queixou-se de dor no pós-operatório imediato e, ao final do 1° ano, apenas 1 paciente apresentou dor durante a reabilitação, resolvida completamente com analgésicos. Atualmente, os pacientes não apresentam queixas, retornando às atividades sem restrições - um deles, à prática de futebol e rapel. A AOFAS AHS pós-operatória foi de 68 a 86 pontos.

Arthrodesis of the ankle in the presence of a large deformity in the coronal plane.

A consecutive series of 23 patients (25 ankles) with osteoarthritis of the ankle and severe varus or valgus deformity were treated by open arthrodesis using compression screws. Primary union was achieved in 24 ankles one required further surgery to obtain a solid fusion. The high level of satisfaction in this group of patients reinforces the view that open arthrodesis, as opposed to ankle replacement or arthroscopic arthrodesis, continues to be the treatment of choice when there is severe varus or valgus deformity associated with the arthritis.

Individual headless compression screws fixed with three-dimensional image processing technology improves fusion rates of isolated talonavicular arthrodesis.

BACKGROUND: Screw fixation is a typical technique for isolated talonavicular arthrodesis (TNA), however, no consensus has been reached on how to select most suitable inserted position and direction. The study aimed to present a new fixation technique and to evaluate the clinical outcome of individual headless compression screws (HCSs) applied with three-dimensional (3D) image processing technology to isolated TNA. METHODS: From 2007 to 2014, 69 patients underwent isolated TNA by using double Acutrak HCSs. The preoperative three-dimensional (3D) insertion model of double HCSs was applied by Mimics, Catia, and SolidWorks reconstruction software. One HCS oriented antegradely from the edge of dorsal navicular tail where intersected interspace between the first and the second cuneiform into the talus body along the talus axis, and the other one paralleled the first screw oriented from the dorsal-medial navicular where intersected at the medial plane of the first cuneiform. The anteroposterior and lateral X-ray examinations certified that the double HCSs were placed along the longitudinal axis of the talus. Postoperative assessment included the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society hindfoot (AOFAS), the visual analogue scale (VAS) score, satisfaction score, imaging assessments, and complications. RESULTS: At the mean 44-months follow-up, all patients exhibited good articular congruity and solid bone fusion at an average of 11.26 ± 0.85 weeks (range, 10 ~ 13 weeks) without screw loosening, shifting, or breakage. The overall fusion rates were 100%. The average AOFAS score increased from 46.62 ± 4.6 (range, 37 ~ 56) preoperatively to 74.77 ± 5.4 (range, 64-88) at the final follow-up (95% CI: -30.86 ~ -27.34; p < 0.001). The mean VAS score decreased from 7.01 ± 1.2 (range, 4 ~ 9) to 1.93 ± 1.3 (range, 0 ~ 4) (95% CI: 4.69 ~ 5.48; p < 0.001). One cases (1.45%) and three cases (4.35%) experienced wound infection and adjacent arthritis respectively. The postoperative satisfaction score including pain relief, activities of daily living, and return to recreational activities were good to excellent in 62 (89.9%) cases. CONCLUSIONS: Individual 3D reconstruction of HCSs insertion model can be designed with three-dimensional image processing technology in TNA. The technology is safe, effective, and reliable to isolated TNA method with high bone fusion rates, low incidences of complications.

The Use of Allostem in Subtalar Fusions.

Subtalar arthrodesis is the mainstay for treatment of a variety of hindfoot problems associated with arthritis, however with an unpredictable if not high rate of nonunion. This article covers the use of adipose-derived stem cells as an adjunct or alternative to autologous or other bone grafting materials. Promising development and encouraging data exist with respect to the use of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells for bone arthrodesis, which is discussed in more detail in the article.

Reliability of the Radiographic Sagittal and Frontal Tibiotalar Alignment after Ankle Arthrodesis.

BACKGROUND: Accurate measurement of the tibiotalar alignment is important in radiographic outcome assessment of ankle arthrodesis (AA). In studies, various radiological methods have been used to measure the tibiotalar alignment leading to facultative misinterpretation of results. However, to our knowledge, no previous study has investigated the reliability of tibiotalar alignment measurement in AA. We aimed to investigate the reliability of four different methods of measurement of the frontal and sagittal tibiotalar alignment after AA, and to further clarify the most reliable method for determining the longitudinal axis of the tibia. METHODS: Thirty-eight weight bearing anterior to posterior and lateral ankle radiographs of thirty-seven patients who had undergone AA with a two screw fixation technique were selected. Three observers measured the frontal tibiotalar angle (FTTA) and the sagittal tibiotalar angle (STTA) using four different methods. The methods differed by the definition of the longitudinal tibial axis. Method A was defined by a line drawn along the lateral tibial border in anterior to posterior radiographs and along the posterior tibial border in lateral radiographs. Method B was defined by a line connecting two points in the middle of the proximal and the distal tibial shaft. Method C was drawn "freestyle"along the longitudinal axis of the tibia, and method D was defined by a line connecting the center of the tibial articular surface and a point in the middle of the proximal tibial shaft. Intra- and interobserver correlation coefficients (ICC) and repeated measurement ANOVA were calculated to assess measurement reliability and accuracy. RESULTS: All four methods showed excellent inter- and intraobserver reliability for the FTTA and the STTA. When the longitudinal tibial axis is defined by connecting two points in the middle of the proximal and the distal tibial shaft, the highest interobserver reliability for the FTTA (ICC: 0.980; CI 95%: 0.966-0.989) and for the STTA (ICC: 0.997; CI 95%: 0.996-0.999) is provided. Intergroup analysis for FTTA measurements revealed a statistically significant difference between the method in which the lateral border of the tibia was used to determine the longitudinal axis of the tibia, and the other methods in which the longitudinal axis was defined by bisecting the tibia. CONCLUSIONS: When the longitudinal axis of the tibia is defined by connecting two points in the middle of the proximal and the distal tibial shaft for measuring the FTTA and STTA, the most favorable interobserver reliability is provided. Therefore, this method can be recommended for evaluating the frontal and the sagittal alignment on anterior to posterior and lateral radiographs after ankle arthrodesis.

[Subtalar arthrodesis]. / Die Arthrodese des Subtalargelenks.

OBJECTIVE: Realignment and stabilization of the hindfoot by subtalar joint arthrodesis. INDICATIONS: Idiopathic/posttraumatic arthritis, inflammatory arthritis of the subtalar joint with/without hindfoot malalignment. Optional flatfoot/cavovarus foot reconstruction. CONTRAINDICATIONS: Inflammation, vascular disturbances, nicotine abuse. SURGICAL TECHNIQUE: Approach dependent on assessment. Lateral approach: Supine position. Incision above the sinus tarsi. Exposure of subtalar joint. Removal of cartilage and breakage of the subchondral sclerosis. In valgus malalignment, interposition of corticocancellous bone segment; in varus malalignment resection of bone segment from the calcaneus. Reposition and temporarily stabilization with Kirschner wires. Imaging of hindfoot alignment. Stabilization with cannulated screws. Posterolateral approach: Prone position. Incision parallel to the lateral Achilles tendon border. Removal of cartilage and breakage of subchondral sclerosis. Medial approach: Supine position. Incision just above and parallel to the posterior tibial tendon. Removal of cartilage and breakage of subchondral sclerosis. Stabilization with screws. POSTOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT: Lower leg walker with partial weightbearing. Active exercises of the ankle. After a 6­week X­ray, increase of weightbearing. Full weightbearing not before 8 weeks; with interpositioning bone grafts not before 10-12 weeks. Stable walking shoes. Active mobilization of the ankle. RESULTS: Of 43 isolated subtalar arthrodesis procedures, 5 wound healing disorders and no infections developed. Significantly improved AOFAS hindfood score. Well-aligned heel observed in 34 patients; 5 varus and 2 valgus malalignments. Sensory disturbances in 8 patients; minor ankle flexion limitations. Full bone healing in 36 subtalar joints, pseudarthrosis in 4 patients.

[Aims of hand therapy in treatment of rheumatoid hand]. / Die Aufgaben der Handtherapie bei der Behandlung der rheumatischen Hand.

When dealing with rheumatoid arthritis, the main issues of hand therapy are the treatment of hand and finger joints. We emphasize mobilisation of joints, muscle strengthening, correcting deformities by low temperature splints and joint protection. Further tasks of occupational therapy are: Informing patients about adaptive devices and training their use as well as educational programs for patients with reduced mobility of the upper limb. The most common surgery on the rheumatoid hand, that need postoperative treatment by a hand therapist are complete and limited arthrodesis of the wrist, surgical reconstruction of tendons, arthroplasty and arthrodeses of and for finger joints, and so on. At the Nordwestdeutsches Rheumazentrum St. Josef-Stift Sendenhorst we have designed a standard postoperative management for treating arthroplasty with a "Silikonspacer" in the metacarpophalangeal joints.

Forefoot Deformity in Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Comparison of Shod and Unshod Populations.

UNLABELLED: All reported rheumatoid arthritis (RA) forefoot deformities in the literature thus far have arisen from shoe wearing populations. Our aim in this study was to compare hallucal deformities seen in a shod population with an unshod population. A population comparison was undertaken in 2 specialized foot and ankle units, one in India and one in the United Kingdom. In the shod population, there was 1 hallux varus deformity, 10 without hallucal deformity, and 90 hallux valgus deformities. In contrast, in the unshod population, there were 19 hallux varus deformities and 6 hallux valgus deformities. There was great variability in the lesser toe deformity seen. In the shod population, it was most common to see dorsal subluxation or dislocation, with the fifth toe in a varus position. In the unshod population, the most common lesser toe deformity seen was varus deviation or dislocation. Instability of the metatarsophalangeal joint in the rheumatoid foot predisposes it to significant deformity. In the non-shoe wearing population, intrinsic muscle forces and weight bearing forces are the most likely determinants of the deformity, with hallux varus being a more common presenting problem. In the shod population, the external forces of shoe wear dictate the direction of deformity. LEVELS OF EVIDENCE: Prognostic, Level III: Case control study.

Implications of elbow arthrodesis for individuals with paraplegia.

A 38-year-old woman who had a recent injury resulting in T-3 Frankel Class C paraplegia and a comminuted fracture of the right elbow is described in this case report. The elbow required an arthrodesis, but the position in which the elbow should be fused was not initially known. To illustrate to the rehabilitation team and the patient the advantages and disadvantages of each of two elbow positions under consideration for the arthrodesis, the author recruited an individual with paraplegia to demonstrate some activities of daily living with two elbow splints that stimulated the two positions of fusion being considered. The patient and the rehabilitation team concluded that the 30-degree flexion fusion offered more functional mobility than the 90-degree flexion fusion. At the completion of her initial rehabilitation, the patient was a full-time manual wheelchair user. She was independent in all self-care and transfers, including uneven transfers to heights of 22.9 cm (9 in) over and 45.7 (18 in) lower than the wheelchair seat. She drives a four-wheel-drive vehicle and is independent in stowing her wheelchair.

Quality of life 20 years after arthrodesis of the ankle. A study of adjacent joints.

biotalar fusion is considered to be the standard treatment for end-stage post-traumatic arthritis of the ankle. We report a retrospective, objective long-term study of the quality of life of 17 patients with 18 arthrodeses of the ankle, over a period of more than 20 years. We looked particularly for correlation between clinical and radiological signs of osteoarthritis in adjoining joints. At serial physical examinations, clinical grades were awarded according to the Olerud Molander Ankle (OMA) score. Any degree of degenerative change in the adjoining joints was recorded on standing radiographs. Patients filled out a SF-36 Health Survey form. Subjectively, 50% of patients were not handicapped in the performance of daily activities and 44% were in the same job as at the time of injury. At follow-up the mean OMA score was 59.4 points, the visual analogue scale was 1.99 and the radiological score was 2.7. The SF-36 for physical function, emotional disturbance and bodily pain revealed significant deficits. There was a significant correlation between the OMA and the radiological score (p = 0.05), and between the clinical and the SF-36 score (p = 0.01), but no significant correlation between the radiological score and the SF-36 score. Arthrodesis of the ankle leads to deficits in the functional outcome, to limitations in the activities of daily living and to radiological changes in the adjoining joints. The clinical outcome score correlates closely with the SF-36 score.

Arthrodesis of the wrist for osteoarthritis: outcome with a minimum follow-up of 4 years.

The outcome of total wrist arthrodesis was reviewed in 36 patients with osteoarthritis after a minimum follow-up of 4 years. Pain relief was not complete, and although 20 were pain free at rest, only six were pain-free during manual activity. Grip strength was 63% of the contralateral side and the DASH score remained high. Only 21 of the 34 could be re-employed. The mean time off work was 14 months. Complications were numerous and additional surgery was required in 21 patients.