Anatomical reconstruction of first ray instability hallux valgus with a medial anatomical TMTJ1 plate.

BACKGROUND: First tarsometatarsal joint (TMTJ1) arthrodesis is a powerful tool for hallux valgus correction. Past criticism of the TMTJ1 arthrodesis has focused on high non-union rates, and consequent need for delayed weightbearing as prevention. In this study we present a selection and treatment protocol to minimise non-union while allowing early weightbearing. METHODS: All TMTJ1 arthrodesis procedures for hallux valgus performed by the senior surgeon over the period June, 2016 to July, 2019 were included. An anatomically-designed, medial TMTJ1 plate and screw compression was utilised for TMTJ1 arthrodesis. The construct was augmented with synthetic intermetatarsal stabilisation. All patients were kept non-weightbearing for 2 weeks, followed by progressive weightbearing as tolerated for 4 weeks. Minimum follow-up was 1 year. RESULTS: 300 modified Lapidus procedures were performed for hallux valgus with mean IMA 17° (Range: 14-29). Mean age was 58 years, with 93% female. 284 (94%) had an Akin osteotomy, while 222 cases (74%) were associated with another forefoot procedure. Patients began progressive weight bearing as tolerated from 2 weeks. All were fully weight bearing by 8 weeks post-operatively. There was a 100% union rate in this group. Mean AOFAS Hallux MTP-IP scores rose from 59 pre-operatively to 97 post-operatively. One plate was removed due to tibialis anterior impingement. There were no recurrences at final follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: We describe a selection and treatment protocol for TMTJ1 arthrodesis for hallux valgus. This yields high union rates while allowing early weight bearing. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4.

Diathermy awareness among surgeons-An analysis in Ireland.

INTRODUCTION: Diathermy is an integral part of many modern surgical procedures. While diathermy is generally accepted as 'safe', electrosurgery-induced injuries are among the more common causes for malpractice litigation. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the awareness among surgeons of the principles, risks, precautions and appropriate use of diathermy. METHODS: All surgeons employed from Senior House Officer (SHO) to Consultant grade in two teaching hospitals were surveyed. Sixty-three surgeons were asked to complete an anonymous questionnaire, which recorded level of training and addressed competence in principles, hazards, and precautions to be taken with diathermy. RESULTS: Eight Consultants, 5 Specialist Registrars, 19 Registrars and 13 SHO's responded (71% response). All but three subspecialties were represented. Eighty-two percent (37/45) had no formal diathermy training. Despite 89% (40/45) of surgeons regarding diathermy as a safe instrument, 56% felt they had inadequate understanding of the principles and failed to demonstrate an appropriate awareness of the potential risks. Fifty seven percent exhibited a dangerous lack of awareness in managing equipment not yielding the desired effect and 22% were unaware of any patient groups requiring special caution. Only 42% wanted formal training. CONCLUSION: Our results show a dearth of awareness among surgeons regarding diathermy. Given our findings, we urge a shift in attitude towards diathermy, with surgeons adopting a more cautious and safe approach to diathermy use. We recommend that formal training be introduced as a hospital based initiative.

Propofol anaesthesia in electroconvulsive therapy. Reduced seizure duration may not be relevant.

BACKGROUND: The induction agent propofol is known to reduce electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) seizure duration. It is assumed that outcome from depression is adversely affected by this agent. This study compares propofol and methohexitone as induction agents for ECT. METHOD: In a prospective, randomised, double-blind study 20 subjects with major depressive disorder (DSM-III-R criteria) received propofol or methohexitone anaesthesia. The Hamilton Depression Rating Scale and Beck Depression Inventory were used to assess depression before therapy, at every third treatment, and at the end of therapy. Seizure duration was measured using the cuff technique. RESULTS: Mean seizure durations (P < 0.01) and mean total seizure duration (P < 0.01) were shorter in the propofol group. There was no difference in outcome. CONCLUSIONS: Use of propofol may not adversely affect outcome from depression and it is not necessarily contraindicated as an induction agent for ECT. Our results should be interpreted cautiously, and larger studies are needed.