Rate and Location of Reulceration and Reamputation After Partial First-Ray Amputation versus Hallux Amputation in Diabetic and Nondiabetic Populations.

BACKGROUND: We sought to determine the rates of reulceration and reamputation in individuals who underwent partial first-ray amputations versus hallux amputations in diabetic and nondiabetic populations. METHODS: Eighty-four amputations were reviewed in a retrospective fashion. A retrospective medical record review was performed to determine patients who underwent a hallux amputation, both partial and complete, and patients who underwent a partial first-ray amputation. Only patients from 2007 to 2019 were reviewed. The reulceration rate of hallux amputations was 61% compared with a partial first-ray amputation reulceration rate of 74%. RESULTS: The reamputation rate of hallux amputation versus partial first-ray amputation was 43% versus 51%. At final follow-up, it was statistically significant that patients who underwent hallux amputation were more likely to be healed than those who underwent partial first-ray amputation, regardless of reulceration or reamputation. In addition, patients who underwent hallux amputation went on to digital amputation, and those who underwent partial first-ray amputation went on to transmetatarsal amputation. CONCLUSIONS: Comparing partial first-ray amputation to hallux amputation, hallux amputation patients are more prone to subsequent digital ulceration. Patients who initially undergo hallux amputation have variable subsequent amputations, often digital. Reulceration primarily occurs at the incision site for partial first-ray amputations, with a higher likelihood of subsequent transmetatarsal amputation. Patients with a medical history of diabetes and staged procedures are more likely to receive partial first-ray amputations. However, hallux amputation patients have a lower risk of reulceration and reamputation, regardless of subsequent events. These findings underscore the importance of discussing risks and preventive measures with patients undergoing such amputations, emphasizing postoperative examinations for specific areas of concern. Hallux amputation appears to offer greater protection against reulceration and reamputation for both diabetic and nondiabetic populations.

Morbidity Associated With Distal Tibial Autograft Harvest.

Distal tibial autograft harvesting has been studied in the past, but morbidity at the level of the donor site is unclear. The purpose of this retrospective review is to assess morbidity in distal tibial autograft harvesting associated with foot and ankle arthrodesis procedures. A retrospective analysis was performed utilizing patients treated in the last 13 years at a large, multicenter, academic, tertiary referral, research institution. Included patients were between the ages of 18 and 80 years old. One-hundred and seven patients (39 male; 68 female) underwent ipsilateral distal tibial bone graft (n = 110) harvesting to augment the index procedure. Patients were followed for an average of 11.2 months after surgery (Range: 1-73 months). The incidence rate of distal tibial stress fractures was 4.5%, with an overall postoperative complication rate of 8.2%. Overall, low complication rates associated with distal tibial autograft harvesting were found, supporting the use of the distal tibia as an appropriate site for autograft harvesting in foot and ankle surgery.

Double versus Triple Arthrodesis for Flatfoot Deformity: When, Why, and How?

Different types of arthrodesis for flatfoot deformity have a long history in foot and ankle surgery. Arthrodesis of the rearfoot can be a useful tool in helping correct deformity and maintaining that correction with good long-term results. Questions have risen recently however about the necessity of including the calcaneocuboid joint in the traditional rearfoot arthrodesis or triple arthrodesis. The double arthrodesis of the talonavicular and subtalar joints has grown in popularity and this review helps the reader choose with a review of the biomechanics, surgical approaches, fixation techniques and recent literature outcomes of both procedures.

Short- to Intermediate-Term Radiographic Outcomes Following Cotton Osteotomy.

The cotton osteotomy or the medial cuneiform opening wedge osteotomy has been a common adjunct procedure in flatfoot reconstruction to correct for forefoot varus or a dorsiflexed first ray. The main goal of the study is to retrospectively review outcomes specifically in the short-intermediate term for the cotton osteotomy. The medical records of a single foot and ankle surgeon (PRB) were reviewed for patients who met inclusion and exclusion criteria. The study period was from January 2006 to October 2018. The analysis was performed using information obtained from chart-review to examine union and complication rates, as well as changes in the cuneiform articular angle based on graft size and type. A total of 71 feet in 61 patients underwent cotton osteotomies for flatfoot reconstruction. Overall complication rate was 5.6% (4/71) with 2 nonunions (2/47) in those that had radiographic follow-up of greater than 9 months. Change in cuneiform articular angle (CAA) showed 0.91° of correction per 1-millimeter increase in graft wedge size from preoperative to 3 weeks. Change for anterior-posterior medial cuneiform bisection dorsal length (AP length) was 0.70 mm per 1 mm of graft used from preoperative to 3 weeks. 6 weeks to 10 weeks showed statistically significant changes in the CAA (p = .01) and the AP length (p = .002). The cotton osteotomy showed statistically significant radiographic loss of correction between the 6- and 10-week time points when patients were allowed to begin weightbearing. Metal grafts may provide maintenance of correction which warrants future studies on their efficacy.

Reulceration and Reoperation Incidence After Isolated Partial Fifth Ray Amputations: A Multicenter Study.

Ulceration or reulceration is a common complication following partial or total fifth ray amputations. The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence of reulceration following partial fifth ray amputations. This was a multicenter review of 117 consecutive limbs that underwent partial fifth ray amputations at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and Wake Forest Baptist Medical Centers. Procedures were performed at various levels along the fifth metatarsal. Incidence of postoperative ulceration was evaluated on the ipsilateral foot. We hypothesized there would be an association between location of resection and development of reulceration. Seventy-one of 117 patients (60.7%) experienced repeat ulceration following a partial fifth ray amputation. Median follow-up time was 19 months. There was no statistical difference based on location of amputation (proximal, middle, distal, isolated base) with regards to reulceration (p = .166), further amputation (p = .271), transmetatarsal amputation (p = .160), or below knee amputation (p = .769). There was statistical significance in the follow up time between study sites (p = .013), fifth ray amputation reoperation rate between study sites (p = .001), and reulceration rates between study sites (p = .017). Partial fifth ray amputations can be a good initial salvage procedure to clear infection and prolong bipedal ambulatory status. The results of the present study put forward that there is not an association between location of amputations of the fifth ray and development of reulceration, transfer lesions or more proximal amputations.

Reoperation, reamputation, and new ulceration following complete or partial toe amputation among diabetic and non-diabetic patients.

AIMS: To compare the number of reoperations, reamputations, and new ulcers following toe amputation in diabetic and non-diabetic patients with sub-group analysis on index amputation level. METHODS: One-hundred sixteen patients with a complete (CTA) or partial (PTA) toe amputation and minimum of 12-month (12 M) follow-up were identified in electronic medical records. The number of reoperations and reamputations, number and location of new ulcers, and final amputation level of the ipsilateral extremity were compared between diabetic and non-diabetic patients and between those with CTA and PTA at 12 M and final follow-up (FFU). RESULTS: Diabetic patients had significantly more reoperations, reamputations, and new ulcers than non-diabetic patients at 12 M and FFU. There were no differences in reoperations, reamputations, or new ulcer location between CTA and PTA; however, patients with PTA developed more new ulcers at 12 M and FFU and were more likely to have a distal final amputation level compared to those with CTA. CONCLUSIONS: Diabetic patients required significantly more reoperations and reamputations following a toe amputation and developed more new ulcers than non-diabetic patients regardless of index amputation level. These high rates among diabetic patients highlight the complications encountered following toe amputation and emphasize the need for close, multi-disciplinary care.

Outcomes of Tibiotalocalcaneal Arthrodesis with a Femoral Nail.

BACKGROUND: Retrograde intramedullary nailing for tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis (TTCA) is used for severe hindfoot deformities, end-stage arthritis, and limb salvage. The procedure is technically demanding, with complications such as infection, hardware failure, nonunion, osteomyelitis, and possible limb loss or death. This study reports the outcomes and complications of patients undergoing TTCA with a femoral nail, which is widely available and offers an extensive range of lengths and diameters. METHODS: We performed a retrospective review of 104 patients who underwent 109 TTCAs using a femoral nail as the primary procedure (January 2006 through December 2016). Demographic data, risk factors, and outcomes were evaluated. RESULTS: At final follow-up, the overall clinical union rate was 89 of 109 (81.7%). Diabetes mellitus was negatively associated with limb salvage (P = .03), and peripheral neuropathy (P = .02) and Charcot's neuroarthropathy (P = .03) were negatively associated with clinical union. Only four patients (3.8%) underwent proximal amputation, at an average of 6.1 months, and 11 patients (10.6%) died, at a mean of 38.0 months. The most common complication was ulceration in 27 of 109 limbs (24.8%), followed by infection in 25 (22.9%). Twenty-three patients (22.1%) underwent revision procedures, at a mean of 9.4 months. Thirteen of these 23 patients (56.5%) had antibiotic cement rod spacers/rods for deep infection-related complications. CONCLUSIONS: Use of a femoral nail has been shown to provide similar outcomes and limb salvage rates compared with other methods of TTCA reported for similar indications in the literature.

Tibia Fracture in Staged Limb Salvage Using External Ring Fixation and Intramedullary Nailing: A Report of Two Cases.

Limb salvage for Charcot's neuroarthropathy has been shown to have high complication and failure rates. The aim of our report of two cases it to present a unique complication encountered with staged limb salvage for Charcot's neuroarthropathy. In two cases, patients developed delayed tibial shaft fracture associated with previous wire placement despite insertion of locked intramedullary nail fixation that spanned the delayed fracture. Both patients experienced fractures following advancement of weight after definitive fixation. In both patients, there was noted complication with the sites of the pins and revision of external fixation before fracture. In each case, the fracture was within the construct of the intramedullary fixation and successfully treated with an extended course of nonweightbearing. Complications of external fixation and intramedullary fixation are well reported within the literature; however, tibia fracture is rare. Based on these cases, it would seem prudent to recognize the risk of delayed pin-site complications and ensure adequate length of intramedullary fixation to span the potential areas of stress.

Common Pitfalls in Subtalar Joint Preparation for Arthrodesis via Sinus Tarsi Approach.

This cadaveric study assessed factors that could lead to nonunions in subtalar joint arthrodesis. The purpose of this study was to assist surgeons in achieving sufficient joint preparation in hopes to achieve more frequent arthrodesis of the subtalar joint. We evaluated the influence of experience in regard to cartilage preparation of the joint. We also assessed which quadrants of the subtalar joint were more likely to have unprepared cartilage. The subtalar joints in 17 cadaveric limbs were prepared by 17 participants with differing levels of experience. After the cartilage was denuded, the percentage of unprepared cartilage in each subtalar joint was calculated. The medial quadrants were more likely to have unprepared surfaces. There was also a learning curve present with subtalar joint preparation, as seen by the significantly larger percentage of unprepared cartilage in cadavers prepared by first year residents.

Surgical Treatment and Management for Chronic Dislocated Subtalar Joint.

Lateral dislocation of the subtalar joint is a relatively uncommon pathology. It has previously been described in the literature secondary to acute trauma. This form of dislocation can also be acquired and seen in severe long-standing cases of flatfoot and Charcot neuroarthropathy. This study aims to describe this "sidecar" deformity, etiologies of the deformity, and the surgical options for correction. This study was performed by reviewing medical records of a single foot and ankle surgeon for patients who met inclusion criteria and underwent surgical correction. The study period was from October 2010 to July 2017. Statistical analysis was performed using chart-review information to examine variables affecting selected outcome measures. The outcome measures evaluated were minor and major complications, as well as functional limb status. A total of 16 patients were included in the study. Etiology included 10 severe flatfoot deformities and 6 Charcot deformities. Seven patients underwent staged reconstruction, and 9 underwent a single-stage reconstruction. Seven patients (44%) had complications; all were major and required unplanned reoperation. In all 16 patients (100%), limb salvage and a functional limb resulted. We conclude that patients with a limb-threatening sidecar deformity can be successfully treated with reconstruction. This is challenging and associated with a high complication rate. Patients with a history of infection should be counseled on the possibility of requiring a staged reconstruction with multiple surgeries as well as the possibility of amputation.

Outcomes and Management of Infected Intramedullary Nails After Tibiotalocalcaneal Arthrodesis in Limb Salvage: A Retrospective Case Series.

Retrograde intramedullary nails are often used for tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis to correct severe hindfoot deformities in high-risk patient populations. The purposes of the current study are to report outcomes of patients undergoing staged management of infection after intramedullary nail fixation for tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis and to review the surgical approach to management of this limb-threatening complication. The authors reviewed patients who underwent hindfoot intramedullary nailing with subsequent revision for infection between January 2006 and December 2016. Staged protocol with antibiotic nail for the management of deep infection was used in 19 patients. The mean follow-up was 115.87 ± 92.80 (range 2.29 to 341.86) weeks. Twelve of the patients had diabetes, 10 had Charcot neuroarthropathy, and 7 had arthrodesis for equinovarus deformity. Sixteen had peripheral neuropathy and 13 had history of ulceration on the operated extremity. Limb salvage with the use of this protocol was achieved in 14 (73.68%) of 19 patients. Five (26.32%) patients had proximal amputation with 3 (15.79%) deaths within the follow-up period. Amputation was more likely in the nonsmoking (p = .01) and insulin-dependent (odds ratio = 22, p = .02) patient cohorts, whereas death was associated only with higher body mass index (p = .03). Time to revision was greater in patients with external bracing postoperatively as well (p = .004). Outcomes, including total number of procedures and retained antibiotic rods, were not associated with any of the preoperative variables or indications. In high-risk patient populations, the presented staged management of infected intramedullary hindfoot nails showed promising outcomes for limb preservation.

Plantar Approach for Midfoot Wedge Resection to Reconstruct the Rocker Bottom Foot.

Chronic deformity of the foot can lead to ulceration, infection, and amputation. Midfoot wedge osteotomy for deformity correction has been described in the literature; however, most reports are case review or small series. Wedge osteotomy can be performed from a medial or plantar approach, but there are limited data on outcomes regarding these relatively uncommon procedures. This study aims to review a population of patients with a rocker bottom foot deformity that underwent a midfoot wedge resection performed from the plantar surface for deformity correction, wound healing, and limb salvage. A review of medical records from a single foot and ankle surgeon was undertaken. Patients who had a midfoot wedge performed from the plantar surface to address rocker bottom deformity resulting from Charcot neuroarthropathy or severe flatfoot were included. Thirty patients met inclusion criteria. The outcome measures evaluated were minor and major complications, wound healing, and functional limb status. Statistical analysis was performed to evaluate factors that influenced outcomes. At time of final follow up, 17 of 20 (85%) preoperative wounds had healed. Mean preoperative talo-first metatarsal angle was -25° and improved to -5° postoperatively. An 87% limb salvage rate (26/30) was demonstrated. Body mass index was the only statistically significant factor that influenced functional limb status. Maintaining a functional limb can have profound effects on a patient's quality of life. Generally, patients with this severe rocker bottom foot deformity have multiple comorbidities and are at an increased risk of major amputation and early death. The current study has shown that patients with a rocker bottom foot deformity can benefit from midfoot wedge resection from a plantar approach to achieve a plantigrade foot.

Special Considerations in the Management of Diabetic Ankle Fractures.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Ankle fractures and diabetes mellitus are both increasing in prevalence. Patients with both diabetes and an ankle fracture have been shown to have an increased rate of complications which can be catastrophic. The purposes of this review are to identify factors placing patients at an increased risk and offer guidance on the management of these injuries, in order to reduce potential complications. RECENT FINDINGS: Non-operative management of unstable ankle fractures in patients with diabetes results in an unacceptably high rate of complications. Operatively managed patients with uncomplicated diabetes seem to fair as well as patients without diabetes. Thus, it is important to recognize patients as either complicated or uncomplicated at the onset of their treatment based on comorbidities. There is limited evidence to guide the management of ankle fractures in patients with diabetes, in particular those deemed complicated. Non-operative management of unstable fractures in diabetic patients should be avoided.

Prognostic Scoring System for Patients Undergoing Reconstructive Foot and Ankle Surgery for Charcot Neuroarthropathy: The Charcot Reconstruction Preoperative Prognostic Score.

Charcot neuroarthropathy is a destructive process that occurs in patients with peripheral neuropathy, often due to poorly controlled diabetes mellitus. Surgical reconstruction can be necessary to provide a plantigrade foot that is wound free. A risk of major amputation exists after a Charcot event and after attempted reconstruction. We retrospectively reviewed the data from 34 patients (36 reconstructions) who had undergone reconstructive surgery for Charcot neuroarthropathy. The mean patient age was 56.44 years. The mean follow-up period was 56 months. We collected patient age, body mass index, presence of wound or osteomyelitis, anatomic location, activity of disease, and hemoglobin A1c. Using these data, each patient was given a score using our novel prognostic scoring system, the Charcot Reconstruction Preoperative Prognostic Score (CRPPS). Our primary outcome measure was no wound and no major amputation at the final follow-up visit. The limb salvage rate was 89% (32 of 36), and 78% (28 of 36) had no wound at the final follow-up examination. For patients without a wound or major amputation at the final follow-up visit, the mean CRPPS was 2.96 ± 1.23. The mean CRPPS for those with a wound or major amputation at the final follow-up visit was 4.33 ± 1.07 (p = .0024). Univariate logistic regression revealed 2 statistically significant predictors of wound and/or amputation: anatomic location (odds ratio [OR] 5.0, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.051 to 23.789; p = .043) and CRPPS (OR 2.724, 95% CI 1.274 to 5.823, p = .01). A CRPPS of ≥4 was also predictive of a negative outcome (OR 7.286, 95% CI 1.508 to 35.211; p = .013). This scoring system, with a sensitivity of 75%, specificity of 71%, and negative predictive value of 85%, is a potential starting point when educating patients and making treatment decisions in this exceptionally challenging group.

Acute Compartment Syndrome of the Foot Due To Frostbite: Literature Review and Case Report.

Acute compartment syndrome of the foot and ankle is a relatively rare clinical finding. Lower extremity compartment syndrome is customarily due to vascular or orthopedic traumatic limb-threatening pathologic issues. Clinical correlation and measurement of intracompartmental pressure are paramount to efficient diagnosis and treatment. Delayed treatment can lead to local and systemically adverse consequences. Frostbite, a comparatively more common pathologic entity of the distal extremities, occurs when tissues are exposed to freezing temperatures. Previously found in military populations, frostbite has become increasingly prevalent in the general population, leading to more clinical presentations to foot and ankle specialists. We present a review of the published data of acute foot compartment syndrome and pedal frostbite, with pathogenesis, treatment, and subsequent sequelae. A case report illustrating 1 example of bilateral foot, atraumatic compartment syndrome, is highlighted in the present report. The patient presented with changes consistent with distal bilateral forefoot frostbite, along with gangrenous changes to the distal tuft of each hallux. At admission and evaluation, the patient had increasing rhabdomyolysis with no other clear etiology. Compartment pressures were measured in the emergency room and were >100 mm Hg in the medial compartment and 50 mm Hg dorsally. The patient was taken to the operating room urgently for bilateral pedal compartment release. Both pathologic entities have detrimental outcomes if not treated in a timely and appropriate manner, with amputation rates increasing with increasing delay.

The Effect of Testosterone Topical Solution in Hypogonadal Men With Suboptimal Response to a Topical Testosterone Gel.

This study evaluated the effect of axillary administration of a 2% testosterone solution (Axiron®) in hypogonadal (HGN) men who had had a suboptimal response to treatment with a commercially available topical testosterone gel. HGN men averaging 57 years old, with a mean body mass index of 31.9 kg/m2 and median baseline testosterone level (T-level) of 185.2 ng/dL, who had failed to reach normal T-levels with a topical testosterone gel (Androgel 1.62%, Androgel, Testim, or Fortesta) were treated with a 2% testosterone solution until T-levels reached a normal range (from ≥300 to ≤1,050 ng/dL) or for up to 9 weeks. Outcomes included the cumulative percentage of men with a serum T-level in the normal range during treatment with Axiron and improvement in symptoms of low energy level and low sexual drive. During the study, 95% of HGN men (72/78) attained a T-level in the normal range. The median T-level at endpoint was 495.7 ng/dL, a threefold increase over baseline, p < .001, 70% achieving normal T-levels within the first 2 weeks of treatment. In a post hoc analysis, all subjects with baseline body mass indexes >35 kg/m2 ( n = 19) achieved T-levels in the normal range. Prior to treatment, over 61% of subjects (48/78) reported impairment in either energy level or sexual drive. After treatment (or testosterone normalization), energy level improved in 75% of subjects and sexual drive improved in 70%. Topical 2% testosterone solution is a safe and effective treatment for HGN men who have had a suboptimal response to previous treatment with topical testosterone gels.

Multiplanar Correction of the Lesser Digital Deviation and Indirect Plantar Plate Rupture Repair Using a Braided Polyethylene Nylon Suture: A Technique Guide.

Forefoot and lesser digital pathology continues to be a challenging area of surgical correction for foot and ankle surgeons. Many techniques for the correction of digital deformities secondary to plantar plate rupture, regardless of planal dominance, have been described including direct repair and metatarsal shortening osteotomies for repair. The authors present a new technique for multiplanar correction of deformed lesser digits without direct repair of the plantar plate rupture utilizing a specialty suture. The technique utilizes a braided synthetic polyethylene Nylon suture, which has been traditionally used for open or arthroscopic shoulder labrum repair, for the stabilization of the lesser metatarsophalangeal joint. This novel technique guide for the correction of transverse and sagittal plane deformities of the digit at the metatarsophalangeal joint negates the need for a plantar incisional approach for plantar plate repair or metatarsal head osteotomy from a dorsal approach with augmented stabilization. LEVELS OF EVIDENCE: Level V: Expert opinion.

Tibiotalocalcaneal Arthrodesis for Foot and Ankle Deformities.

Tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis is a safe and viable option to treat patients with arthridities affecting ankle and subtalar joints, neuromuscular disorders, avascular necrosis of the talus, failed ankle arthrodesis, instability, and Charcot neuroarthropathy. Choice of incision and fixation is based on deformity, pathology, prior surgery and hardware, and surgeon comfort and preference. Intramedullary nails offer high primary stability, reduce sustained soft tissue damage, and may allow for earlier return to activities than traditional plate or screw constructs. Peri- and postoperative fractures, malunion, nonunion, and infections are potential complications. Postoperative recovery is a vital component for an overall successful outcome.

Revisional Surgery of the Diabetic Charcot Foot and Ankle.

Charcot neuroarthropathy (CN) is a difficult problem for the foot and ankle surgeon. If surgery is required, little is known or available regarding the best methods and timing. When the initial attempt of reconstruction fails, revision of CN is even more demanding. One must take in to account all aspects, including nutrition, vascular status, infection control, short- and long-term blood glucose management, as well as other factors requiring laboratory monitoring and consult services. Once optimized, the biomechanics of the deformity can be addressed and decisions can be made on fixation devices.

Subtalar Distraction Arthrodesis with Fresh Frozen Femoral Neck Allograft: A Retrospective Case Series.

UNLABELLED: Subtalar joint distraction arthrodesis has been well reported with use of structural iliac crest or local autologous bone graft for malunited calcaneal fractures. Early reports for structural allograft did not yield good, consistent results, leading to a subsequent lack of recommendation in previous literature. Newer studies have had promising results utilizing femoral allograft as an alternative to autogenous bone graft. We performed a retrospective chart review on 10 patients (12 feet) undergoing subtalar joint distraction arthrodesis with femoral neck allograft for malunited calcaneal fractures. The primary aim of this study was to report on successful union rates and, in addition, outline any consistent complications. Twelve of the 12 procedures (100%) yielded successful fusion with a mean final follow-up of 7.7 months (range = 2.2-35.1 months). The mean increase in talocalcaneal height was 4 mm (range = 2-6 mm). The overall complication rate was 16.6%, including one superficial wound complication that healed uneventfully and one hardware removal. In conclusion, the current study reports a 100% successful fusion rate with interpositional structural femoral neck allograft in treatment for malunited calcaneal fractures. LEVELS OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, Level IV: Case series.