Addressing Barriers to Timely Orthopaedic Follow-up for Foot and Ankle Fractures After Emergency Department Visits.

INTRODUCTION: Foot and ankle fractures present common challenges in emergency departments, warranting careful follow-up protocols for optimal patient outcomes. This study investigates the predictors of orthopaedic follow-up for these injuries after an emergency department (ED) visit. METHODS: A retrospective observational study of 1450 patients seen in the ED with foot or ankle fractures from July 2015 to February 2023 was conducted. All included patients were discharged with instructions to follow-up with an orthopaedic provider. Demographic data, fracture details, and follow-up patterns were extracted from medical records. Social vulnerability was assessed using the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Social Vulnerability Index. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify predictors of follow-up. A subgroup analysis comparing patients who followed up >7 days from ED presentation (ie, delayed follow-up) to those who followed up within 7 days of presentation was then performed. Statistical significance was assessed at P < .05. RESULTS: Overall, 974/1450 (67.2%) patients followed up with orthopaedics at an average time of 4.16 days. After risk adjustment, Medicaid coverage (odds ratio [OR] = 0.56, P = .018), increased overall social vulnerability (OR = 0.83, P = .032), and increased vulnerability across the dimensions of socioeconomic status (P = .002), household characteristics (P = .034), racial and ethnic minority status (P = .007), and household type and transportation (P = .032) were all associated with lower odds of follow-up. Phalangeal fractures were also associated with decreased odds of follow-up (OR = 0.039, P < .001), whereas ankle fractures were more likely to follow-up (OR = 1.52, P = .002). In the subgroup analysis, patients of older age (P = .008), non-white race (P = .024), motor vehicle accident (MVA) (P = .027) or non-private insurance (P = .027), those experiencing phalangeal fractures (P = .015), and those seen by an orthopaedic provider in the ED (P = .006) were more likely to present with delayed follow-up. CONCLUSION: Patients with increased social vulnerability and Medicaid insurance are less likely to seek follow-up care after presentation to the ED with foot and ankle fractures.

Tibialis Anterior Tendon Reconstruction Utilizing Split Tendon Turn-down: A Case Report and Technique Guide.

Tibialis anterior tendon (TAT) ruptures are rare, equating to less than 1% of all musculotendinous injuries. These injuries can be acute or atraumatic, with the latter often associated with chronic degenerative tendinopathy. Surgical repair is indicated when conservative measures fail in meeting functional demands. Direct end-to-end repair is the preferred method for TAT ruptures but may not be feasible with a large tendon defect. Various surgical techniques have been described to address this pathology, including allograft tendon interposition or extensor hallucis longus (EHL) transfer. The authors present a unique technique utilizing a minimal incision TAT turn-down with dermal matrix allograft augmentation, and, in addition, a case implementing this technique in a patient with a large insertional defect. The patient's postoperative course and outcomes were favorable, with improvements in pain, satisfaction, functional scores, and strength. The surgical technique offers versatility and can be adapted to different tendon defect sizes. It also allows for minimal-incision exposure, beneficial for patients with comorbidities or compromised skin integrity. In conclusion, the authors present a case report and surgical technique for the management of large-deficit, chronic TAT ruptures using split TAT turn-down. This technique provides a potential solution for cases where direct end-to-end repair is not feasible.Level of Evidence: Level V.

Treatment of External Fixator Pin Tract Deep Infections With an Antibiotic "Sparkler".

Pin tract infections are virtually universal complications with the use of external fixation. While most are superficial and respond to oral antibiotics and local care, septic loosening may occur at the bone-pin interface, which may lead to instability of the fixator, catastrophic failure, fracture, and long-term osteomyelitis. Classification systems and prevention protocols have been developed to address this ubiquitous complication. Treatment of severe pin tract infections often requires debridement, parenteral antibiotics, and removal of the offending pin or the entire external fixator. In cases of osteomyelitic pin tracks, a sizable cavity is often present. We describe a simple technique for treatment of deep bone pin tract infection through the use of debridement, irrigation, and an antibiotic "sparkler," which is a specially prepared percutaneous implant of antibiotic laden bone cement.Levels of Evidence: Level 5.

Nationally Representative Trends in Incidence of Procedures Done Concomitantly With Primary and Revision Total Ankle From 2012 to 2020.

BACKGROUND: As new literature emerges and practice patterns fluctuate, there is a significant potential for variation with regard to adjunctive procedures performed with primary total ankle arthroplasty (pTAA) and revision total ankle arthroplasty (rTAA). Our study aims to evaluate yearly trends in the incidence of concomitant procedures and compare the incidence of adjunctive procedures between pTAA and rTAA. METHODS: The 2012-2020 American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) database was queried for all pTAA and rTAA. The number of concurrent procedures was compared between pTAA and rTAA and compared across years available in the most current version of the NSQIP database (2012-2020). RESULTS: Patients undergoing pTAA had a higher mean age than patients undergoing rTAA (64 vs 61 years; P < .001), and patients undergoing rTAA had higher wound class (P < .001), indicating higher levels of contamination. Concurrent procedures were performed significantly less frequently with pTAA than rTAA (mean procedures 0.82 vs 1.30; P < .001). Removal of deep implants was more commonly coded with rTAA than pTAA (9.0% vs 17.7%; P < .001). Gastrocnemius recession was more frequently performed with pTAA than rTAA (10.4% vs 3.0%; P = .001). CONCLUSION: As pTAA and rTAA increase in incidence throughout the United States, there is increased importance on furthering our understanding of these procedures. This study provides a nationally representative analysis of adjunctive procedures with pTAA and rTAA from 2012 to 2020. Generally, more adjunctive procedures are performed with rTAA versus pTAA, confirming the high complexity of rTAA. LEVELS OF EVIDENCE: Level III.

How to Prevent Wound Complications After Total Ankle Arthroplasty Through Anterior Approach: A Systematic Review on Current Treatment Options.

INTRODUCTION: Total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) through anterior approaches is a common treatment for end-stage tibiotalar arthritis. The occurrence of wound healing problems can lead to severe consequences. The aim of this systematic review is to summarize the available methods to minimize postoperative wound complications after TAA through standard anterior approaches. METHODS: Three databases were searched for original articles concerning methods to reduce anterior wound complications after TAA. Eligible articles were examined to extract studies' characteristics, population data, type of intervention, and related wound complications. Study risk of bias assessment was conducted through the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. RESULTS: Thirteen articles were included for analysis, investigating 8 types of intervention, which were grouped into 3 classes: biological, mechanical, and pharmacological methods. A significant decrease in wound complications was reported for negative pressure wound therapy (3% vs 24%, P = .014), soft tissue expansion strips (2% vs 12%, P = .04), and tranexamic acid (TXA) administration (9% vs 22%, P = .002). CONCLUSION: Despite the limitations of the included studies, this review showed encouraging results for TXA administration. Good results were found for mechanical methods, despite each intervention being supported by only 1 comparative study. Careful selection of patients is recommended to identify potential benefits or contraindications to such interventions. Further prospective randomized studies would be helpful to confirm these results.Levels of Evidence: 3.

Rate of Infection and Causative Organisms in a Lateral Approach Total Ankle Replacement.

BACKGROUND: Although the rate of both superficial and deep infection in total ankle replacement (TAR) can reach up to 13% as reported in the literature, there is little information on the causative organisms, especially in laterally implanted prosthesis. This study aims to identify organisms causing infections to ultimately guide to better antibiotic prophylaxis. METHODS: Between September 2016 and April 2021, we retrospectively reviewed patients who had an infection after a lateral TAR. Cause of the infection, causative organisms, and implant survival were recorded. RESULTS: Out of 130 patients, 10 of 130 patients (7.6%) had a superficial infection whereas 3 of 130 patients (2.3%) had a deep infection. Staphylococcus and Pseudomonas species were found to be the most common. No significant difference was found between the type of plate used for fibula fixation regarding wound dehiscence. CONCLUSIONS: Infection after lateral TAR is generally polymicrobial in nature with Staphylococcus and Pseudomonas species being the most common. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV Case Series.

Biomechanical Evaluation of Fourth Generation Minimally Invasive Distal First Metatarsal Osteotomy-Akin Osteotomy Technique on First Ray Articular Contact Properties.

BACKGROUND: Hallux valgus is a common deformity encountered but remains a complex clinical entity. Fourth-generation minimally invasive surgery (MIS) techniques consisting of a percutaneous distal metatarsal transverse osteotomy combined with an Akin osteotomy have been used to address mild to severe hallux valgus deformities. The benefits of an MIS approach include improved cosmesis, faster recovery, lower opiate requirement, immediate weightbearing, and favorable outcomes relative to a traditional, open procedure. An understudied area with respect to hallux valgus correction is the effect that osteotomies can have on the articular contact properties of the first ray following correction. METHODS: Sixteen paired cadaveric specimens were dissected to include the first ray and tested in a customized apparatus. Specimens were randomized to receive a distal transverse osteotomy translated either 50% or 100% of the width of the first metatarsal shaft. The osteotomy was performed with either a 0° or 20° distal angulation of the burr relative to the shaft in the axial plane. Specimens were tested in the intact state and following the distal first metatarsal osteotomy for peak pressure, contact area, contact force and center of pressure at the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) and first tarsometatarsal (TMT) joints. An Akin osteotomy was then performed on each specimen, and peak pressure, contact area, contact force, and center of pressure were recalculated. RESULTS: There was a notable decrease in peak pressure, contact area, and contact force across the TMT joint with greater shifts of the capital fragment. However, at 100% translation of the capital fragment, distal angulation of the osteotomy by 20° appears to improve loading across the TMT joint. Addition of the Akin osteotomy at 100% translation also aids in increasing the contact force across the TMT joint. The MTP joint is less sensitive to changes in shifts and angulation of the capital fragment. The Akin osteotomy also leads to increased contact force across the MTP joint when the capital fragment is translated 100%. CONCLUSION: While the clinical significance is unknown, larger shifts of the capital fragment lead to greater load alterations at the level of the TMT joint than the MTP joint. Distal angulation of the capital fragment and the addition of an Akin osteotomy can aid in reducing the size of those changes. The Akin can lead to increased contact forces at the MTP joint with 100% translation of the capital fragment. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Not applicable, Biomechanical study.

The joint effect of female sex and food insecurity on self-reported mood disorder among Canadian adults: the Canadian community health survey.

BACKGROUND: Food insecurity is prevalent in Canada and may influence mental health, particularly among females. The present study examined the joint effect of female sex and food insecurity on mood disorders. METHODS: The study used data from 104,420 adults aged 18 years or older who participated in the 2017/2018 Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS). Log-binomial models explored the independent and joint associations of female sex and food insecurity with the prevalence of self-reported mood disorder. Prevalence ratios (PRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated. Relative excess risk due to interaction (RERI), attributable proportion (AP), and synergy index (S) were used to assess the additive interaction of female sex and food insecurity. The complex survey design was taken into consideration. RESULTS: The prevalence of mood disorder was 6.7% for males and 11.4% for females, with an adjusted prevalence ratio being 1.59 (95% CI 1.51, 1.68) for females versus males. Mood disorder was associated with moderate food insecurity (PR 2.06, 95% CI 1.91, 2.23) and severe food insecurity (PR 3.29, 95% CI 3.06, 3.55). There was a significant additive interaction between female sex and food insecurity in association with the prevalence of mood disorders among females aged 18 to 39 years (RERI 1.19, 95% CI 0.27,2.08). CONCLUSION: Food insecurity was associated with an increased prevalence of mood disorders, especially in younger females. Interventions that facilitate access to food while being cognizant of the socioeconomic vulnerabilities of females may have substantial benefits for the prevention and management of mood disorders.

The Role of Epigenomics in Mapping Potential Precursors for Foot and Ankle Tendinopathy: A Systematic Review.

Tendinopathy of the foot and ankle is a common clinical problem for which the exact etiology is poorly understood. The field of epigenetics has been a recent focus of this investigation. The purpose of this article was to review the genomic advances in foot and ankle tendinopathy that could potentially be used to stratify disease risk and create preventative or therapeutic agents. A multi-database search of PubMed, Cochrane, Google Scholar, and clinicaltrials.gov from January 1, 2000 to July 1, 2022 was performed. A total of 18 articles met inclusion and exclusion criteria for this review. The majority of such research utilized case-control candidate gene association to identify different genetic risk factors associated with chronic tendinopathy. Polymorphisms in collagen genes COL5A1, COL27A1, and COL1A1 were noted at a significantly higher frequency in Achilles tendinopathy versus control groups. Other allelic variations that were observed at an increased incidence in Achilles tendinopathy were TNC and CASP8. The extracellular matrix (ECM) demonstrated macroscopic changes in Achilles tendinopathy, including an increase in aggrecan and biglycan mRNA expression, and increased expression of multiple matrix metalloproteinases. Cytokine expression was also influenced in pathology and aberrantly demonstrated dynamic response to mechanical load. The pathologic accumulation of ECM proteins and cytokine expression alters the adaptive response normal tendon has to physiologic stress, further propagating the risk for tendinopathy. By identifying and understanding the epigenetic mediators that lead to tendinopathy, therapeutic agents can be developed to target the exact underlying etiology and minimize side effects.Level of Evidence: Level IV: Systematic Review of Level II-IV Studies.

Fibular Rod Osteosynthesis in Ankle Fractures With Compromised Soft Tissue.

BACKGROUND: Complications after plate and screw fixation of ankle fractures are frequently reported in the literature, with a higher rate in patients with advanced age, comorbidities, and poor skin conditions. A reduced complication rate has been reported with intramedullary nailing (IMN) of the fibula; however, the indication has been based on the surgeon's preferences. We report the results after IMN in patients with compromised soft tissue exclusively. METHODS: A total of 71 patients with 72 distal fibula fractures were included in this retrospective study. Information about medical history, the ankle injury, treatment, and complications were collected from the medical records. Additionally, the preinjury and 6-week follow-up radiographs were evaluated. RESULTS: Postoperative information was available for a minimum of 4.3 years postoperatively or until death. In all, 10 patients had complications related to the nail and required secondary surgery. These included 6 symptomatic hardware issues, 2 construct failures, 1 deep infection, and 1 combined deep infection and construct failure. CONCLUSIONS: After IMN of the fibula, 14% of the patients required reoperation. Our results support the previous literature suggesting IMN as an acceptable surgical alternative where the risk of complications with plate and screw fixation is considered too high. Compromised soft tissue is one important indication. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV: Case series without control.

Early Results of a Novel Intramedullary Fixation Device for Proximal Fifth Metatarsal Fractures.

BACKGROUND: Proximal fifth metatarsal fractures are commonly treated surgically due to their poor healing capacity. While intramedullary screws may be the most popular operative treatment choice, newer fixation methods continue to develop. We present a case series utilizing a novel intramedullary fixation device for proximal fifth metatarsal fractures. To our knowledge, no other study in the literature has assessed the safety and efficacy of this fixation method. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was performed for 16 patients with proximal fifth metatarsal fractures who underwent fixation with the same novel intramedullary device. Patient charts were reviewed for fracture union, plantar fracture gapping, time to weight-bearing, refracture, perioperative complications, and secondary surgeries. RESULTS: Sixteen patients with an average age of 43.3 years underwent fixation with this novel device from 2015 to 2020. Mean follow-up was 32.4 weeks. Fifteen of the 16 patients achieved radiographic union at a mean of 8.9 weeks. One patient suffered a nonunion. Mean time to full weight-bearing in, and out of, a walking boot was 6.4 and 9.8 weeks, respectively, for healed fractures. Mean plantar fracture gap improved from 1.22 mm to 0.88 mm following surgery. There were zero infections, refractures, or hardware complications. Three patients suffered iatrogenic fracture during implant insertion. CONCLUSION: To our knowledge, this is the first report of early results for this novel intramedullary device. Excellent union rates, acceptable time to weight-bearing, and a low complication profile can be achieved. Based on our findings, we propose a safe and effective treatment option for proximal fifth metatarsal fractures. LEVELS OF EVIDENCE: Level IV: Clinical case series.

Intramedullary Fixation of Distal Fibula Fractures.

BACKGROUND: Ankle fractures pose a unique challenge to the treating orthopedic surgeon. Intramedullary (IM) distal fibula fixation is a relatively newer entity offering a viable option to minimize wound complications while providing similar outcomes. Our study utilizes an IM nail featuring proximal fixation via IM talons ensuring maintenance of fracture reduction this is the largest case series utilizing this novel device assessing time to weight-bearing (WB) and fracture union in addition to the safety and reproducibility of percutaneous reduction. METHODS: A retrospective case series was conducted on 51 ankle fractures treated with a single IM device for lateral malleolar fixation. Postoperative radiographs were assessed, qualifying reductions as good, fair, or poor based on a reduction classification. Patient charts were reviewed for fracture characteristics, reduction method, fracture union, time to WB, and complications. RESULTS: Mean follow-up time was 32.2 weeks; 47 fracture reductions (92%) were classified as good, and 4 (8%) were fair. All but 1 fracture (98%) went onto union. Average time to union was 10.3 weeks. Average time to WB with and without a walking boot was 6.8 and 11.2 weeks, respectively. Two patients experienced painful hardware. One patient had a superficial wound infection. CONCLUSION: When evaluating this novel IM device, fracture union and time to union were found to be acceptable, with minimal wound or other complications. Percutaneous reduction permitted good fracture reduction quality. Consistent time to WB for a variety of fractures was reliably demonstrated following operative fixation with this device, including those in the elderly population. LEVELS OF EVIDENCE: Level IV: Clinical case series.

Short-Term Complications Following Total Ankle Arthroplasty and Associated Risk Factors: A NSQIP Database Analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) has become increasingly utilized over the past 20 years to treat osteoarthritis of the ankle. The efficacy and safety of this procedure has been previously reported, but relatively few studies have documented the risk of postoperative complications associated with TAA over the past 10 years. Thus, the aim of this study is to provide a current report on the safety of TAA, particularly in association with a number of preoperative risk factors. METHODS: A retrospective review of all patients in the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database who underwent TAA between 2012 and 2018 was performed. A total of 1333 patients were included in this analysis. Penalized logistic regression to consider small numbers of the postoperative complications was used to identify factors associated with incidence of the complications. RESULTS: The rate of readmission and superficial wound infection were found to be 1.4% and 0.6%, respectively. Risk factors associated with a prolonged hospital stay were black race, Hispanic race, and smoking. Diabetes was associated with a significantly increased risk of readmission. Age, sex, body mass index, and steroid use were not associated with increased risk of postoperative complications. CONCLUSION: In this study, the rate of surgical site infection and readmission in TAA was found to be relatively low, compared to published data on total knee arthroplasty and total hip arthroplasty. Both race and smoking increase the risk of prolonged hospital stay, while diabetes increases the risk of readmission. LEVELS OF EVIDENCE: Level III, retrospective comparative trial.

Inadequate Purchase in the Proximal Tendon Stump Using the Percutaneous Achilles Repair System: A Technical Tip.

Minimally invasive approaches for the Achilles tendon have emerged as viable alternatives for acute Achilles ruptures, with several potential benefits in comparison to the open approach. Occasionally, proper purchase in the proximal tendon stump is not achieved due to severe degenerative disease of the tendon. In this article, we present a technique in which a small accessory incision is used during percutaneous Achilles repair in order to pass the sutures in a more proximal and healthy area of the tendon. This technique is useful for situations in which adequate tendon grasp is not obtained, avoiding the need of conversion to an open approach.Level of Evidence: Level V: Expert opinion.

Acrometastasis of the Lower Limb Carries a Poorer Prognosis: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND: Bony metastasis distal to the knee is rare and often reported alongside metastasis distal to the elbow. We sought to provide empirical evidence of the epidemiology, presentation, and prognosis of lower limb acrometastasis, alongside investigation of the distribution of metastases present while lower limb acrometastases form. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study identified 44 radiologically confirmed cases of lower limb acrometastasis from a single region. Case note review facilitated the extraction of data relating to the stated aims. Patients were grouped by extent of metastasis at primary diagnosis. Mann-Whitney U test compared metastatic burden, and Kaplan-Meier analysis compared survival. RESULTS: Prostate and breast carcinoma were the most commonly diagnosed primary tumors. Sixty-eight acrometastatic lesions were identified, of which 70% presented asymptomatically. Lower limb acrometastasis was associated with metastatic disease at a significantly greater number of sites than those presenting with metastasis proximal to the knee only (P = .007) and conveyed a significantly worse survival than metastasis proximal to the knee or nil metastasis (P < .001). Median survival from diagnosis of lower limb acrometastasis was 1.0 year. CONCLUSION: Lower limb acrometastasis is associated with a large metastatic burden and occurs in the terminal year of disease. Radiological identification of cases reveals a distinct cohort of acrometastatic lesions, more likely to present asymptomatically, and arises from alternate primary carcinomas than those in previous literature. LEVELS OF EVIDENCE: Level IV: Case series.

The Medial Gastrocnemius Recession, an Alternative Surgical Treatment for Isolated Gastrocnemius Contracture: A Cadaver Study With Discussion Emphasizing Variable Conjoint Tendon Anatomy.

BACKGROUND: Gastrocnemius recession is a popular procedure utilized to treat chronic conditions related to isolated gastrocnemius contracture (IGC). Recent anatomical research detailing variable gastrocsoleus tendon morphology has raised important questions regarding the safety of some traditional recession procedures. Alternative gastrocnemius recession strategies may produce comparable dorsiflexion improvement results while avoiding the surgical risk related to conjoint tendon anatomical variability. METHODS: Ten matched cadaver pairs were randomized to receive either a medial gastrocnemius recession (MGR) procedure or a gastrocnemius intramuscular recession "Baumann" procedure. Postoperative dorsiflexion improvement was measured and then compared between groups. Detailed postoperative surgical dissections were performed to assess structures at risk, conjoint tendon morphology, and anatomical symmetry. RESULTS: Medial gastrocnemius recession and Baumann procedures were equally effective at producing significant increases in passive ankle dorsiflexion. No sural nerve injuries were observed. Thirty-five percent of specimens showed direct muscular fusion of at least a portion of the distal gastrocnemius muscular tissue to the adjacent soleus. CONCLUSION: The MGR procedure produced comparable dorsiflexion improvement results to the Baumann procedure in our cadaver model. Surgeons must account for certain conjoint tendon anatomical variants when surgically treating IGC as traditional recession methods risk tendo-Achilles overlengthening. LEVELS OF EVIDENCE: Level V: Cadaver Study.

Projections and Epidemiology of Total Ankle and Revision Total Ankle Arthroplasty in the United States to 2030.

Background: Total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) utilization is increasing in the United States. As the incidence of this procedure grows, it is important for providers to understand the future projections for ankle arthroplasty and more importantly revision total ankle arthroplasty (rTAA). Methods: The National Inpatient Sample (USA) was queried from 2005 to 2017 for all TAA and rTAA. Poisson and linear regression analysis was performed to project annual incidence of TAA and rTAA to 2030, with subgroup analyses on septic rTAA. Results: There were 5315 TAAs performed in 2017, a 564% (P < .001) increase when compared with the TAAs performed in 2005. From 2017 to 2030, the incidence of TAAs is projected to increase from 110% to 796% (P < .001). There were 1170 rTAAs performed in 2017, a 155% (P < .001) increase when compared with rTAAs performed in 2005. There was a 256% increase in the incidence of septic rTAAs from 2005 to 2017 with a projected increase between 22% and 120% by 2030. Conclusions: The incidence of both TAAs and rTAAs is projected to significantly increase over the next decade. Given the known risk factors of TAA and rTAA, these findings reinforce the need for thoughtful consideration when selecting patients for TAA.

Avascular Necrosis of the Talus Following Subchondroplasty: A Case Report and Review of Literature.

CASE: Avascular necrosis (AVN) of the talus in a 45-year-old female following subchondroplasty with calcium phosphate bone filler for treatment of anterolateral and posteromedial talar dome bone marrow lesions (BMLs). The patient subsequently presented as consultation, 18 months postoperatively, with AVN of the talus. After failing conservative management, the patient underwent a total ankle arthroplasty at 46 months after subchondroplasty with resolution of pain. CONCLUSION: There are few studies that have reported on the safety of subchondroplasty of the talus. Given the tenuous blood supply to the talar body and poor patient outcomes associated with AVN, caution should be taken before extrapolating the generally positive results of subchondroplasty in the knee. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV.

Radiographic and Cadaveric Analysis of Minimally Invasive Bunionectomy Osteotomy Position-"MIS Bunion Sweet Spot".

Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) is a growing technique that favors faster recovery and cosmetic results. We propose a recommended osteotomy position or "MIS Sweet Spot" to make the procedure more reproducible and lessen the learning curve to improve outcomes. A total of 211 patients from 3 surgeons between 2 different study centers were included in a retrospective radiograph measurement analysis and a cadaveric dissection to confirm the safety of nearby anatomical structures. An average distance of 2.2 cm proximal from the first metatarsophalangeal joint was found as the "Sweet Spot" to perform the transverse osteotomy. At this distance, neurovascular and tendinous structures were unharmed and the osteotomy remained extracapsular. Furthermore, an average of 10.7° of intermetatarsal angle reduction and a reduction of tibial sesamoid position of 3 points were achieved. A predictable and measurable distance for osteotomy placement will help to provide more confidence in producing the bunionectomy osteotomy with the specialized tools used in MIS and can help to reduce operative time and improve results.Level of Clinical Evidence (LOCE): 3.

Prospective Comparison of Subtalar Arthroereisis With Calcaneal Lengthening in the Management of Planovalgus Feet of Ambulatory Children With Spastic Cerebral Palsy?

BACKGROUND: Pes planovalgus (PPV) deformity is common among cerebral palsy (CP) patients. There is no true consensus about the best way of treating this common deformity, especially when surgical interference is required. Treatment options range from orthotics to complex surgical procedures. The purpose of this prospective study was to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of 2 different procedures in the correction of symptomatic flexible PPV in ambulatory CP patients. METHODS: A total of 57 feet in 35 patients were divided into 2 groups: group 1, subtalar arthroereisis group, using the calcaneostop technique; group 2, lateral column lengthening group, using Evans osteotomy. Patients were assessed clinically by the clinical score proposed by Yoo et al and radiologically by measuring 7 weight-bearing angles, both preoperatively and 12 months postoperatively. Patients' (or parents') satisfaction and their tolerance to braces or shoes were assessed 12 months after surgery as secondary outcome parameters. RESULTS: There was a statistically significant improvement in both primary and secondary outcome parameters after both procedures in comparison to the preoperative parameters. No statistically significant differences were observed between the 2 groups regarding the outcomes of both procedures except for the greater power of arthroereisis in the correction of hindfoot valgus, which was statistically significant both clinically and radiographically. CONCLUSION: Both procedures are valid options for the surgical management of PPV in ambulatory children with spastic CP. The less-invasive nature and lower potential morbidity suggest that judicious use of arthroereisis is appropriate for some patients, especially in the context of single-event multilevel surgery. LEVELS OF EVIDENCE: Level II: Prospective, comparative study.