Orthopaedic knee scooter-related injury: prevalence and patient safety perception in a prospective cohort with exploratory risk factor analysis.

BACKGROUND: There is a paucity of research investigating the harms associated with orthopaedic knee scooter (OKS) use and patient safety perceptions. This prospective study aimed to define the prevalence of OKS-related injuries, describe the patient perceptions of OKS safety, and identify potential risk factors. METHODS: This study was conducted at a single foot and ankle fellowship-trained surgeon's community-based clinic from 6/2020 to 4/2021 and enrolled 134 patients. Our primary outcome was an OKS-related event (injury or fall) and informed an a priori power analysis. Point estimate of association magnitude was calculated as an odds ratio (OR) for statistically and clinically significant associations. RESULTS: There were 118 (88%) patients eligible for analysis; fourteen enrolled patients did not use OKS, and two withdrew. The prevalence of patient falls was 37% (44/118), and the prevalence of patient injury was 15% (18/118). Four percent of patients would not recommend OKS and 8% would not use an OKS again. Sedentary lifestyle increased risk (OR = 4.67, 1.52-14.35 95 CI) for OKS-related injury. CONCLUSIONS: Despite a high prevalence of patient falls (37%), there is a low prevalence of injury (15%) and a favorable perception of OKS safety. Sedentary lifestyles may be a risk factor for OKS-related injury and should be considered in the development of a risk model.

Conversion of First Metatarsal-Phalangeal Joint Arthrodesis to Arthroplasty: A Case Report.

Introduction: Arthrodesis remains the gold standard for most first metatarsal-phalangeal joint (1MTPJ) pathologic conditions due to its high patient satisfaction, low complication rates, and consistent data. 1MTPJ arthroplasty remains a pursued procedure given the advantages described above, but the literature remains complicated and controversial as a primary surgical treatment. To the authors' knowledge, there is no prior report describing utilization of arthroplasty as an approach to managing clinical failure of a successful fusion in the setting of a technically successful procedure without a post-operative complication. Case Report: We present a case report of a 70-year-old female patient who underwent a successful 1MTPJ arthrodesis for hallux valgus and hallux rigidus and extensive tarsometatarsal arthrodesis for midfoot arthritis. Although the patient had radiographic evidence of successful fusion and had no surgical complications, she presented with dissatisfaction and pain due to functional limitations imposed by the procedure sequelae. The patient was diagnosed with right foot hallux interphalangeus with painful retained hardware. Conservative management failed to improve dissatisfaction or symptoms, and the patient opted for surgical takedown of her fusion with conversion to metatarsal-phalangeal joint arthroplasty, removal of hardware, and second toe proximal phalanx exostectomy. A stepwise surgical technique is described for the procedure, which was successful in addressing the patient's perceived clinical failure. Conclusion: Our case report describes a rare example of a patient who did not tolerate successful arthrodesis of the 1MTPJ, which was successfully revised to recreate the joint using a decellularized dermal allograft. The procedure resulted in fantastic patient satisfaction and long-term outcomes. This case report highlights a potential salvage option for patients who do not tolerate a 1MTPJ arthrodesis.

Clinical outcomes in the surgical management of ankle fractures: A systematic review and meta-analysis of fibular intramedullary nail fixation vs. open reduction and internal fixation in randomized controlled trials.

BACKGROUND: What level I evidence exists to support the use of FNF for surgical management of ankle fractures in high risk patients? The purpose of this study was to compare clinical outcomes following fibular intramedullary nail fixation (FNF) and open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of ankle fractures. METHODS: A systematic review of the current literature was performed according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Certainty of evidence reported according to GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation). Our primary hypothesis was that patients undergoing FNF procedures to manage an ankle fracture would have significantly higher patient reported outcome scores (PROs) than patients undergoing ORIF. Primary study outcome measures were validated PROs. Secondary outcome measures included complication rate, secondary surgery rate, and bony union. RESULTS: The primary outcome analysis revealed no evidence of a significant effect difference on Olerud and Molander Ankle Score (OMAS) PRO and no evidence of statistical heterogeneity. Secondary outcome analysis revealed a significant 0.30 (0.12-0.74 95CI) relative risk reduction for complications in FNF (P = 0.008). No evidence of an effect difference for bony union. The GRADE certainty of the evidence was rated as low for bone union. No evidence of reporting bias was appreciated. Sensitivity analyses did not significantly alter effect estimates. CONCLUSION: This systematic review and meta-analysis restricted to evidence derived from RCTs revealed that the quality of evidence is reasonably strong and likely sufficient to conclude: (1) there is likely no clinically important difference between FNF and ORIF up to 12 months post-operatively, as defined by OMS (moderate certainty); (2) surgeons may reasonably expect reduced complications in 14 out of every 100 patients treated with FNF (moderate certainty); (3) there is likely no difference in bony union (low certainty). Future studies should investigate more patient-centered outcomes and if short-term findings are durable over time if these findings apply to lower risk populations. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Systematic review and meta-analysis of level I evidence.

Identifying Intra-Articular Pathology With Arthroscopy Prior to Open Ankle Fracture Fixation.

PURPOSE: To assess the prevalence of intra-articular findings with ankle arthroscopy in patients undergoing operative fixation for ankle fractures. METHODS: This is a retrospective review of ankle fractures that were treated with arthroscopy and open reduction and internal fixation by a single surgeon. Between August 2016 and July 2018, operative reports, office notes, and images were reviewed to identify intra-articular pathology and fracture type. An analysis was performed with regard to fracture type, presence and location of osteochondral lesions, loose-bodies, syndesmotic injury, and deltoid injury. RESULTS: Fifty-seven ankle fractures were identified that met inclusion criteria. In total, 84.2% of the fractures had intra-articular pathology, most commonly a syndesmotic injury followed by presence of intra-articular loose bodies and osteochondral defects. CONCLUSIONS: In our study, use of arthroscopy before open ankle fracture fixation identified intra-articular pathology in 84.2% of subjects. The most common pathology was syndesmotic injury. The addition of an arthroscopic assessment in patients with operatively treated ankle fractures may help improve treatment provided to patients during ankle fracture surgery. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level 4 Therapeutic Case Series.

Traditional Modified Broström vs Suture Tape Ligament Augmentation.

BACKGROUND: The modified Broström (MB) procedure has long been the mainstay for the treatment of chronic lateral ankle instability (CLAI). Recently, suture tape (ST) has emerged as augmentation for this repair. The clinical benefit of such augmentation has yet to be fully established. The purpose of this study was to determine if ST augmentation provides an advantage over the traditional MB. METHODS: Adult patients were identified for inclusion in the study based on indications for primary lateral ligament reconstruction for CLAI. The primary outcome measure was time to return to preinjury level of activity (RTPAL). Secondary outcome measures included complications, ability to participate in an accelerated rehabilitation protocol (ARP), patient-reported outcomes (PROs), and visual analog pain scale (VAS). A total of 119 patients with CLAI were enrolled and randomized to the MB (59 patients) or ST (60 patients) treatment arm. RESULTS: Average RTPAL was 17.5 weeks after MB and 13.3 weeks after ST (P < .001). At 26 weeks, 12.5% of patients in the MB group and 3.6% of patients in the ST group had not managed RTPAL (P = .14). The complication rate was 8.5% in the MB group vs 1.7% in the ST group (P = .12). Four patients in the MB group failed to complete the ARP vs 1 in the ST group (P = .144). CONCLUSION: Results from this multicenter, prospective, randomized trial suggest that ST augmentation allows for earlier RTPAL than MB alone. ST augmentation may support successful accelerated rehabilitation and did not result in increased complications or morbidity. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level II, prospective comparative study.

Allograft Tendon Interposition Arthroplasty of the Hallux Metatarsophalangeal Joint: A Technique Guide and Literature Review.

The "anchovy" interpositional arthroplasty technique can be used as a salvage option for failed hallux rigidus procedures. The operative technique utilized by the senior author is described. Careful soft-tissue handling, meticulous joint space and graft preparation, and interposition graft stabilization using a bone tunnel and suture anchors are unique aspects of this technique, which in the authors' experience have contributed to improved outcomes. Current literature regarding indications and outcomes is limited and controversial. The proposed benefits of soft-tissue interposition arthroplasty of the hallux metatarsophalangeal joint for patients with prior failed implant arthroplasty are improved pain scores and preservation of range of motion. Level of Evidence: Level V, technique guide.

Correction of moderate to severe hallux valgus with isometric first metatarsal double osteotomy.

BACKGROUND: The operative treatment for the moderate to severe bunion continues to present challenges. The indications for a single, double, or triple first ray osteotomy remain controversial. In addition, it is not clear whether an opening wedge osteotomy leads to clinically relevant arthritis at the first metatarsophalangeal joint. However, it is this theoretical concern that has led the authors to develop an isometric correction of the first ray. METHODS: Thirty-two patients underwent operative correction of hallux valgus with a double osteotomy of the first metatarsal using an opening wedge proximally and a closing wedge distally. The mean follow-up period was 59.3 months with a range of 55 to 65 months. RESULTS: The 1-2 intermetatarsal angle preoperatively was a mean of 18.9 degrees (range 17-23), correcting postoperatively to a mean angle of 8.6 degrees (range 5-12), for an average correction of 10.4 degrees (range 6-16). The postoperative AOFAS scores were 39.4 out of 40 points for pain, 42.4 out of 45 points for function, and 15 points for alignment. The total score was excellent with 94.2 out of 100 possible points. Radiographic union occurred in all cases. There was one case of painful edema of the foot and two cases of early avascular necrosis (AVN) diagnosed by residual pain at the hallux metatarsophalangeal joint and transient osteopenia of the metatarsal head on radiographs. No late sequelae associated with AVN such as arthritis or metatarsal head collapse were noted with long-term follow-up. These healed within months without specific treatment. CONCLUSION: A double osteotomy of the first metatarsal with a nonlocking, low-profile plate was an effective procedure for correcting severe hallux valgus that carried a low complication rate and high patient satisfaction. It has clear advantages over isolated opening wedge procedures, including potentially better correction especially in those bunions associated with an increased distal metatarsal articular angle. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, retrospective case series.

Dorsal Approach for Plantar Plate Repair With Weil Osteotomy: Operative Technique.

UNLABELLED: In recent years, the role of the plantar plate in lesser metatarsophalangeal joint stability has increasingly been recognized. Tearing or attenuation of the plantar plate often will result in crossover or hammertoe deformity with hyperextension of the MTP joint. Some patients are able to have resolution of painful symptoms with conservative treatment but for those that fail these measures, surgical fixation of the plantar plate is indicated. While, there have been some described techniques for direct repair of the plantar plate, we present a surgical technique through a dorsal approach with a Weil osteotomy which accomplishes great clinical correction of the plantar plate tear and associated toe deformity as well as relief of patient's pain. Additionally, we believe this technique is safe, efficient and reproducible. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level V, expert opinion.

Treatment of Lisfranc joint injury: current concepts.

Injuries to the tarsometatarsal joint complex, also known as the Lisfranc joint, are relatively uncommon. However, the importance of an accurate diagnosis cannot be overstated. These injuries, especially when missed, may result in considerable long-term disability as the result of posttraumatic arthritis. A high level of suspicion, recognition of the clinical signs of injury, and appropriate radiographic studies are needed for correct diagnosis. When surgery is indicated, closed reduction with percutaneous screw fixation should be attempted. If reduction is questionable, open reduction should be performed. Screw fixation remains the traditional fixation technique.

Proximal first metatarsal opening wedge osteotomy with a low profile plate.

BACKGROUND: Many surgical procedures have been described for the correction of metatarsus primus varus associated with hallux valgus deformity. The purpose of this study was to present the results of the proximal metatarsal opening wedge (PMOW) osteotomy using the Arthrex LPS(R) first metatarsal system. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eighty-four patients (90 feet) underwent PMOW osteotomy with distal bunionectomy. There were 78 patients (93%) and 84 (93%) feet available for followup. Mean followup was 2.4 (range, 2.0 to 3.2) years from the time of the index surgery. Pre- and postoperative clinical examination, level of activity, patient derived subjective satisfaction score, radiographic measurements, and visual analogue scale (VAS) score for pain were obtained and evaluated retrospectively. RESULTS: The mean preoperative VAS score was 5.9 (+/- 2.2), compared with a mean postoperative score of 0.5 (+/- 0.8). The mean 1-2 IMA preoperatively was 14.5 (+/-3.3) degrees, compared with postoperative measurements of 4.6 (+/- 2.8) degrees. The mean hallux valgus angle (HVA) improved from a mean of 30 (range, 22 to 64) degrees preoperatively to 10 (range, -15 to +18) degrees. The mean time to radiographic union was 5.9 (range, 4 to 14) weeks. There was one nonunion, one delayed union, mild hallux varus in two patients, severe hallux varus in two patients, recurrent hallux valgus in three patients (including the nonunion) and no instances of plate failure there was no significant difference in mean preoperative (74.8 degrees +/- 11) compared to postoperative (67.9 degrees +/- 10) total MTP joint range of motion. Ninety percent of patients reported good to excellent subjective results after the index surgery. CONCLUSION: We believe PMOW osteotomy was near ideal in terms of reliable, predictable correction and healing. Length of the first metatarsal was maintained and patients ambulated safely in a CAM walking boot immediately after surgery. We believe a first web space release may result in hallux varus and increased distal metatarsal articular angle (DMAA) was associated with hallux valgus recurrence.

Soft tissue complications following calcaneal fractures.

Soft tissue complications following calcaneal fractures can be frustrating to the patient and present reconstructive challenges for the surgeon. Preoperative patient assessment may define a group of patients who are best treated nonoperatively in an effort to avoid disastrous soft tissue complications. Late sequelae will continue to be seen and through the use of differential injections, physical exam, and appropriate intervention, the practitioner can usually decrease symptoms and improve a patient's function. Further studies in the treatment of open calcaneal fractures are necessary to better define treatment algorithms. A working knowledge of these complications and their management is necessary for the surgeon treating calcaneal fractures.

Distal tarsal tunnel release with partial plantar fasciotomy for chronic heel pain: an outcome analysis.

This study evaluated the effectiveness of distal tarsal tunnel release with a partial plantar fasciotomy for chronic subcalcaneal pain syndrome in patients who failed nonoperative management through a retrospective review of all patients undergoing this procedure between 1994 and 1999. Distal tarsal tunnel release and a partial plantar fasciotomy were offered only to those patients with disabling heel pain and were performed under general anesthesia or ankle block. Seventy-five patients (80 heels), averaging 20 months of nonoperative treatment, were identified (group I). Postoperative outcome questionnaires (SF-36 and Foot Function Index [FFI]) were sent to these patients and 44 (46 heels) responded (group II). In group I, 88% of patients had a good to excellent result. Many continued with mild to moderate residual symptoms, which typically did not limit their activity. In group II, 91% of patients were somewhat to very satisfied with their outcome. Visual analogue scale scores for pain were reduced by a mean of 55. SF-36 scores, matched against a control group of patients receiving just nonoperative treatment, showed a statistically significant improvement in all pain and functioning subcategories. We conclude that a distal tarsal tunnel release with a partial plantar fasciotomy may successfully increase function and decrease pain in patients who fail nonoperative treatment.