Use of patient-reported outcome measures in foot and ankle research

Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Physical Function Instruments Compare Favorably With Legacy Patient-Reported Outcome Measures in Upper- and Lower-Extremity Orthopaedic Patients: A Systematic Review of the Literature

PURPOSE

To compare Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Physical Function (PF) with traditional ("legacy") patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) in regard to correlations, ease of use, and quality criteria for upper (UE) and lower extremity (LE) orthopaedic conditions.

METHODS

A systematic search of the PubMed/MEDLINE database was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines to identify published articles that referenced the various PROMIS PF measures. Two authors independently reviewed selected studies. The search returned 857 studies, 85 of which were selected for independent review by 2 authors. Of these, 54 were selected for inclusion. Mixed linear models were performed to assess for differences between legacy PROMs and PROMIS measures.

RESULTS

The combined sample size of all included studies yielded 6,074 UE and 9,366 LE patients. Overall, PROMIS PF measures demonstrated strong correlations with legacy PROMs among UE (weighted Pearson correlation, 0.624, standard error [SE] = 0.042; weighted Spearman correlation, 0.566, SE = 0.042) and LE patients (weighted Pearson correlation, 0.645, SE = 0.062; weighted Spearman correlation, 0.631, SE = 0.041). PROMIS PF questionnaires completed by UE patients had fewer questions than legacy PROMs (5.9 vs 17.7, P = .0093) and were completed in less time (90.5 vs 223.8 seconds, P = .084). PROMIS PF questionnaires completed by LE patients had fewer questions than legacy PROMs (4.81 vs 15.33, P < .001) and were completed in less time (63.6 vs 203.2 seconds, P = .0063). The differences for the reliability measures were not significant.

CONCLUSIONS

PROMIS PF scores correlate strongly with commonly used legacy PROMs in orthopaedics, particularly in UE and LE patients. PROMIS PF forms can be administered efficiently and to a broad patient population while remaining highly reliable. Therefore, they can be justified for standardized use among orthopaedic patients with UE and LE conditions, improving the ability to aggregate and compare outcomes in orthopaedic research.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, systematic review of Level I-IV evidence.

Subjective and Objective Outcomes of Surgery for Rheumatoid Forefoot Deformities Under the Current Treatment Paradigm

We investigated the clinical outcomes of surgical procedures for the treatment of forefoot deformities in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Twenty feet in 16 women (mean age 62.1 years) underwent corrective osteotomy of the first metatarsal bone with shortening oblique osteotomy of the lesser metatarsophalangeal joints (joint-preservation group), while 13 feet in 12 women (mean age 67.4 years) underwent arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint with resection arthroplasty of the lesser metatarsophalangeal joints (joint-sacrifice group); mean follow-up for each group was 25.8 and 23.8 months, respectively. The mean total Japanese Society for Surgery of the Foot (JSSF) scale improved significantly from 64.2 to 89.2 in the joint-preservation group (p < .001), and from 54.2 to 74.2 in the joint-sacrifice group (p = .003). In the joint-preservation group, the postoperative range of motion (ROM) of the joint, walking ability, and activities of daily living scores of the JSSF scale were significantly higher than those in the joint-sacrifice group (p = .001, p = .001, and p = .019, respectively). There were no differences in the subscale scores of the self-administered foot evaluation questionnaire between 2 groups either pre- or postoperatively. No differences in the postoperative complications were found between 2 groups. Although the joint-sacrificing procedure resulted in lower objective outcomes than the joint-preserving procedure regarding the ROM of the joint, the walking ability, and the level of activities of daily living, both procedures resulted in similar treatment outcomes when evaluated by the subjective measures.

Longitudinal Validity and Minimal Important Change for the Modified Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS) in Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Patients

The lower extremity functional scale (LEFS) is a patient-reported outcome measure for lower extremity disorders. Aim of this study was to assess the longitudinal validity including responsiveness and test-retest reliability of the revised 15-item version, and to define the minimal important change (MIC) of the modified LEFS in a generic sample of orthopedic foot and ankle patients who underwent surgery. Responsiveness, effect size, and standardized response mean were measured by determining the score change between the baseline and 6 months administration of the LEFS from 156 patients. There was no significant difference between preoperative (median 78, interquartile range [IQR] 64.2-90.3) and postoperative (median 75.0, IQR 61.7-95.0) scores. Both effect size and standardized response mean were low (0.06 and 0.06, respectively). Test-retest reliability of the LEFS was satisfactory. Intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.85 (95% confidence interval 0.81-0.88). MIC value could not be estimated due to the lack of significant score change. The modified LEFS presented with relatively low longitudinal validity in a cohort of generic orthopedic foot and ankle patients. The findings of this study indicate that the modified LEFS might not be the optimal instrument in assessing the clinical change over time for these patients.

Minimal important change for Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS)

BACKGROUND

Although Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) is a widely used patient-reported outcome measure (PROM) for foot and ankle conditions, research on its longitudinal validity is still needed. Minimal important change (MIC) values for the FAOS were determined using predictive modeling.

METHODS

Overall, 134 patients that underwent operative treatment for foot and ankle conditions were included. An anchor based predictive logistic modeling method was used for estimating the MIC values for the FAOS subscales after surgery.

RESULTS

Mean score changes in the improved and the unimproved groups were 17.7 and 0.43 points for Pain, 3.9 and -3.3 points for Symptoms, 21.3 and 1.8 points for Activities and daily living (ADL), 8.7 and -2.8 points for Sport, and 12.5 and -3.3 points for quality of life subscale, respectively. MIC was successfully determined to four out of five subgroups as follows: Pain 9.5 (94% CI -6.4 to 24.6); ADL 11.7 (95% CI -19.6 to 46.6); Sport (95% CI -10.4 to 15.4); QoL 5.0 (95% CI -2.6 to 12.9). The Symptoms subgroup presented with low MIC of 0.3 (95% CI -11.7 to 13.4) fitting to the measurement error.

CONCLUSION

ADL, Sports, Pain, and QoL subscales of the FAOS presented logical MIC values. The MIC can be further evaluated for specific conditions.

Collection and Reporting of Patient-reported Outcome Measures in Arthroplasty Registries: Multinational Survey and Recommendations

BACKGROUND

Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) are validated questionnaires that are completed by patients. Arthroplasty registries vary in PROM collection and use. Current information about registry collection and use of PROMs is important to help improve methods of PROM data analysis, reporting, comparison, and use toward improving clinical practice.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

To characterize PROM collection and use by registries, we asked: (1) What is the current practice of PROM collection by arthroplasty registries that are current or former members of the International Society of Arthroplasty Registries, and are there sufficient similarities in PROM collection between registries to enable useful international comparisons that could inform the improvement of arthroplasty care? (2) How do registries differ in PROM administration and demographic, clinical, and comorbidity index variables collected for case-mix adjustment in data analysis and reporting? (3) What quality assurance methods are used for PROMs, and how are PROM results reported and used by registries? (4) What recommendations to arthroplasty registries may improve PROM reporting and facilitate international comparisons?

METHODS

An electronic survey was developed with questions about registry structure and collection, analysis, reporting, and use of PROM data and distributed to directors or senior administrators of 39 arthroplasty registries that were current or former members of the International Society of Arthroplasty Registries. In all, 64% (25 of 39) of registries responded and completed the survey. Missing responses from incomplete surveys were captured by contacting the registries, and up to three reminder emails were sent to nonresponding registries. Recommendations about PROM collection were drafted, revised, and approved by the International Society of Arthroplasty Registries PROMs Working Group members.

RESULTS

Of the 25 registries that completed the survey, 15 collected generic PROMs, most frequently the EuroQol-5 Dimension survey; 16 collected joint-specific PROMs, most frequently the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score and Hip Disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score; and 11 registries collected a satisfaction item. Most registries administered PROM questionnaires within 3 months before and 1 year after surgery. All 16 registries that collected PROM data collected patient age, sex or gender, BMI, indication for the primary arthroplasty, reason for revision arthroplasty, and a comorbidity index, most often the American Society of Anesthesiologists classification. All 16 registries performed regular auditing and reporting of data quality, and most registries reported PROM results to hospitals and linked PROM data to other data sets such as hospital, medication, billing, and emergency care databases. Recommendations for transparent reporting of PROMs were grouped into four categories: demographic and clinical, survey administration, data analysis, and results.

CONCLUSION

Although registries differed in PROM collection and use, there were sufficient similarities that may enable useful data comparisons. The International Society of Arthroplasty Registries PROMs Working Group recommendations identify issues that may be important to most registries such as the need to make decisions about survey times and collection methods, as well as how to select generic and joint-specific surveys, handle missing data and attrition, report data, and ensure representativeness of the sample.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

By collecting PROMs, registries can provide patient-centered data to surgeons, hospitals, and national entities to improve arthroplasty care.

Does the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Correlate to Legacy Scores in Measuring Physical Health in Young Total Hip Arthroplasty Patients?

BACKGROUND

The Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) was developed by the National Institutes of Health to collect outcome data in rapid dynamic fashion on electronic platforms. The potential role of PROMIS in monitoring pain and function in young total hip arthroplasty (THA) patients has been under-investigated. The purpose of this study is to investigate correlation between PROMIS Physical Function (PF) and PROMIS Pain Interference (PI) and legacy scores with similar considerations.

METHODS

We identified 298 hips who underwent primary THA over 40 months. Patients without preoperative PROMIS or legacy scores, or >50 years were excluded. Demographic data included age, gender, and body mass index. Outcome data included PF, PI, modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS), Western Ontario and McMasters Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) domains, and Short Form 12 components. Floor/ceiling effects were considered to be significant if ≥15% of patients responded with the lowest or highest possible score. Spearman correlation (R) was performed to investigate correlation between legacy scores and PROMIS domains.

RESULTS

Mean age was 40 years, mean body mass index was 30.1 kg/m², and 55% were female. None of the patient-reported outcome measures showed any floor/ceiling effects. PI showed moderate correlation to mHHS (R = -0.60), WOMAC Pain (R = -0.62), and WOMAC PF (R = -0.60). PF showed moderate correlation to mHHS (R = 0.66) and WOMAC PF (R = 0.55). Mean PF and PI scores differed significantly from the general population mean of 50 (36.7, 65.4, respectively; both P < .001).

CONCLUSION

PROMIS is an attractive alternative to legacy scoring measures, showing moderate correlations between PROMIS physical domains and legacy PROMs of WOMAC and mHHS in young patients undergoing THA.

Can patients with psychological distress achieve comparable functional outcomes and satisfaction after hallux valgus surgery? A 2-year follow-up study

BACKGROUND

This study assessed the influence of preoperative mental health on functional outcomes and satisfaction, and the change in mental health after hallux valgus surgery.

METHODS

383 patients who underwent scarf osteotomy were analyzed. Visual analogue scale (VAS), American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society score (AOFAS) and SF-36 were assessed at 6 months and 2 years. The cohort was stratified into patients with and without psychological distress (i.e. SF-36 Mental Component Summary [MCS] <50 vs ≥50).

RESULTS

After adjusting for demographics and baseline scores, VAS and AOFAS were poorer in the distressed group at 6 months. However, there was no difference in scores at 2 years and a similar proportion of patients were satisfied. SF-36 MCS in distressed patients significantly improved, but remained lower compared to non-distressed patients at follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with psychological distress undergoing hallux valgus surgery had poorer short-term outcomes, but these differences resolved at 2 years.

Chronic Syndesmotic Injury: Revision and Fixation With a Suture Button and a Quadricortical Screw

Background. Chronic syndesmotic injury may cause long-term pain and reduced ankle function. Today, there is no consensus about the best surgical treatment of these injuries. We present the technique and results of revision and fixation with a suture button and a quadricortical screw. Methods. Eleven patients treated for chronic syndesmotic injury were included. The patients completed questionnaires regarding ankle function, and computed tomography scans were obtained to evaluate tibiofibular distance and osteoarthritis. Complications were registered. Results. At mean 45 months follow-up, the mean American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society ankle-hindfoot score was 87 points. There were 5 complications, including 3 hardware-related pain. The tibiofibular distance was significantly reduced with surgery. Seven patients had progression of osteoarthritis. Conclusions. Even though the majority of the patients had progression of radiological signs of osteoarthritis, the functional outcome after revision and fixation with a suture button and a quadricortical screw in chronic syndesmotic ruptures is good and comparable to the results presented in other studies.Levels of Evidence: Level IV: Case series without control, technical note.

Influence of Complications and Revision Surgery on Fulfillment of Expectations in Foot and Ankle Surgery

BACKGROUND

Fulfillment of patients' expectations following foot and ankle surgery has been previously studied, and shown to be an effective modality in assessing patient-reported outcomes (PROs). Although this assessment has been shown to correlate well with patient satisfaction and other validated PROs, the impact of postoperative complications on fulfillment of expectations is unknown. The aim of this study is to therefore investigate the impact of postoperative complications on fulfillment of patients' expectations.

METHODS

Preoperatively, patients completed a validated Foot and Ankle Expectations Survey consisting of 23 questions encompassing domains including pain, ambulation, daily function, exercise, and shoe wear. At 2 years postoperatively, patients answered how much improvement they received for each item cited preoperatively. A fulfillment proportion (FP) was calculated as the amount of improvement received versus the amount of improvement expected. Chart review was performed to identify patient demographics, comorbidities, pain management, and postoperative complications, which were classified as minor (infection requiring antibiotics) or major (return to operating room for revision, deep infection). FP in patients with a complication was compared to patients who did not experience a complication. In addition, the Foot and Ankle Outcomes Score (FAOS), satisfaction, and Delighted-Terrible scale (how they would feel if asked to spend the rest of their life with their current foot/ankle symptom) were collected at final follow-up. Of the 271 patients (mean age 55.4 years, 65% female), 31 (11.4%, mean age 53.6, 58% female) had a postoperative complication: 25 major (19 revisions, 6 deep infections requiring irrigation and debridement), 4 minor (4 superficial infections requiring antibiotics), and 2 major and minor (revision and superficial infection). Average time from complication to completion of fulfillment survey was 15 (±3.6) months. The groups were similar in diagnoses.

RESULTS

Complications were associated with significantly worse FP (0.69 ± 0.45 vs 0.86 ± 0.40, P = .02). Having a complication significantly correlated with worse satisfaction, Delighted-Terrible scale, and FP (P < .001). FAOS domains were similar between groups preoperatively; postoperatively, patients without complications had significantly higher Activities of Daily Living and Quality of Life scores (P < .05). Demographically, there was no difference in age, sex, body mass index, Charlson Comorbidity Index, depression/anxiety, or pain management between the 2 groups.

CONCLUSION

Our data suggests that postoperative complications following foot and ankle surgery were associated with worse patient-reported fulfillment of their operative expectations even after recovery from the initial surgery and complication. This finding is independent of preoperative expectations, and correlates with patient satisfaction with their procedure. Therefore, while patient-perceived fulfillment following foot and ankle surgery is multifactorial, the incidence of a postoperative complication negatively impacts fulfillment as well as satisfaction following surgery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level II, prospective comparative series.

Defining the patient acceptable symptom state for the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society score following hallux valgus surgery

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to define the patient acceptable symptom state (PASS) for the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society score (AOFAS) following hallux valgus surgery.

METHODS

548 patients underwent hallux valgus surgery and had AOFAS assessed preoperatively, 6 months and 2 years postoperatively. Responses to an anchor question were used as external criterion in receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analyses to define PASS thresholds.

RESULTS

In total, 429 patients (78.3%) reported their current state as acceptable. Areas under the curve (AUC) for ROCs were 0.71-0.81 for all analyses. PASS threshold was 88.5 at 2 years (sensitivity 64%, specificity 85%). Sensitivity analyses revealed that the threshold was robust.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with an AOFAS of 88.5 consider their postoperative symptom state to be acceptable. This knowledge will enable clinicians to identify patients who have attained a satisfactory functional status after hallux valgus surgery.

Patient-Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs): Influence of Motor Tasks and Psychosocial Factors on FAAM Scores in Foot and Ankle Trauma Patients

Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMS) are being increasingly used as a quality of care metric. However, the validity and consistency of PROMS remain undefined. The study sought to determine whether Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) scores improve after patients complete motor tasks evaluated on the survey and to examine the relationship between depression and self-efficacy and FAAM scores or change in scores. We conducted a prospective comparison study of adults with isolated foot, ankle, or distal tibia fractures treated operatively at level I trauma center. Twenty-seven patients completed the FAAM survey at the first clinic visit after being made weightbearing as tolerated (mean 3 months). Patients then completed 6 motor tasks queried on FAAM (standing, walking without shoes, squatting, stairs, up to toes), followed by a repeat FAAM and General Self-Efficacy scale (GSE) and Patient Health Questionnaire-2 (PHQ-2) instruments. FAAM scores before and after intervention; GSE and PHQ-2 scores compared with baseline FAAM and change in FAAM scores. Performing motor tasks significantly improved postintervention scores for squatting (P = .044) and coming up to toes (P = .012), the 2 most strenuous tasks. No difference was found for the remaining tasks. Higher depression ratings correlated with worse FAAM scores overall (P < .05). Higher self-efficacy ratings correlated with increase in FAAM Sports subscale postintervention (P = .020). FAAM scores are influenced by performing motor tasks. Self-reported depression influences baseline FAAM scores and self-efficacy may influence change in FAAM scores. Context and patient factors (modifiable and nonmodifiable) affect PROM implementation, with implications for clinical care, reimbursement models, and use of quality measure.

Danish Language Version of the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society Ankle-Hindfoot Scale (AOFAS-AHS) in Patients with Ankle-Related Fractures

The American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society Ankle-Hindfoot Scale (AOFAS-AHS) is, to date, the most widely used scale for evaluating foot and ankle disorders. We translated it into Danish and evaluated the reliability, validity and responsiveness of the Danish version of the AOFAS-AHS (AOFAS-DK) in patients aged >18 years with isolated ankle-related fractures. Forward-backward translation, cross-cultural adaption, and validation study were performed. In total, 125 patients completed the AOFAS-DK and the Self-reported Foot and Ankle Score (SEFAS) at 3 time points after the date of fracture. The evaluation was performed according to the Consensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement Instruments guidelines. The intra-class correlation coefficient level of the AOFAS-DK total score was 0.87 (95% confidence interval: 0.80-0.91). Cronbach's alpha (CA) for the AOFAS-DK function subscale was 0.62, whereas the floor and ceiling effect of the function subscale was 32% (T1) and 19% (T2), respectively. Construct validity was correlated with the SEFAS, and >75% of the predefined hypotheses could be confirmed. Responsiveness was analyzed using longitudinal data, and showed that the AOFAS-DK can detect changes in scores. The Danish version of the self-administered section of the AOFAS-AHS showed overall good reliability, validity, and responsiveness. The low CA values and the presence of the floor effect might be due to the low number of items and response options available in the scale. The AOFAS-DK can be used to evaluate physical function in patients with ankle-related fractures.

The popularity of outcome measures used in shoulder arthroplasty literature

INTRODUCTION

Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) are frequently utilized within orthopaedics to determine the extent of patient disease and the efficacy of surgical treatments. Shoulder arthroplasty is a common treatment option for a range of pathologies; however, substantial variety exists regarding the instruments used within the published literature, limiting their quality and generalizability. The purpose of the present systematic review is to evaluate the overall number and frequency of outcome measures used in all clinical studies evaluating outcomes following shoulder arthroplasty.

METHODS

This systematic review was performed following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Relevant studies that assessed patient reported outcomes following total shoulder arthroplasty, reverse shoulder arthroplasty, and shoulder hemiarthroplasty were obtained from PubMed, MEDLINE, and EMBASE databases. For each manuscript, the journal, authors, region of origin, level of evidence, and subject/pathology were recorded. The frequency of each reported outcome measure and category. Associations between study characteristics and measure categories were tested using Poisson regression with robust error variance.

RESULTS

A total of 682 articles were included in the analysis, reporting 42 different PROs. The most popular tools were the Constant-Murley score (49.7%), the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Evaluation Form (37.7%), and the Visual Analog Scale (34.3%). A generic outcome tool was used in 287 studies (42.1%), while 645 (94.6%) utilized a shoulder-specific measure and 49 (7.2%) used a disease-specific measure. The use of generic (p<0.001) and disease specific (p<0.001) measures were associated with higher level of evidence.

CONCLUSION

Studies assessing patient outcomes following shoulder arthroplasty employ a large range of PRO measuring tools, many of which are non-validated. Furthermore, only a small percentage of studies utilize a combination of tools from different categories despite current recommendations. Consensus on validated and clinically-meaningful tools from multiple categories is necessary to increase the generalizability and applicability of published studies in shoulder arthroplasty literature.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

1.

Treatment of Adolescent Hallux Valgus With Percutaneous Distal Metatarsal Osteotomy

Background. Hallux valgus is a complex deformity of the first ray of the foot, and a significant number of adolescents develop this deformity. More than 130 surgical procedures have been described to treat hallux valgus, but there is no compelling evidence to prefer one method over another. Minimal invasive techniques have been proposed and reported to be successful and cost-effective. The objective of this study was to describe the clinical course of adolescent patients treated with percutaneous distal metatarsal osteotomy. Methods. A retrospective study included patients who had a percutaneous hallux valgus correction during the years 2008 to 2015. The following measurements were compared before surgery up to last follow-up: AOFAS Hallux-Metatarsophalangeal-Interphalangeal questionnaire and radiological measurements (HVA, IMA, DMAA). Any postoperative complications were extracted from the medical records. Results. The procedure was performed on 32 feet (27 patients). All patients were <18 years of age. There were 10 male patients (12 feet) and 17 female patients (20 feet). Average age at surgery was 15.8 years (range = 13-18 years). Average follow-up time was 43 months (range= 24-94 months). The average AOFAS score before surgery was 66, and after surgery, at last follow-up was 96. This difference was significant (P value <.0001). Most patients were pain free after the procedure and returned to appropriate age functioning. Significant improvement was noted in all radiological criteria. Conclusions. Percutaneous distal metatarsal osteotomy is safe, reliable, and effective for the correction of mild to moderate symptomatic hallux valgus in adolescents.Levels of Evidence: Level IV.

Effect of Age on Clinical and Radiological Outcomes of Hallux Valgus Surgery

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of hallux valgus increases with age. However, no studies have compared the effectiveness of surgical correction among different age groups. This study investigated the influence of age on clinical and radiological outcomes following hallux valgus surgery.

METHODS

Patients who underwent correction for hallux valgus at an academic hospital were stratified into 3 age groups: younger (<50 years), middle-aged (50-59 years), and older (≥60 years). Functional outcomes and satisfaction questionnaires were collected preoperatively and at 6 months and 2 years postoperatively. Radiological recurrence and reoperations were recorded at follow-up. There were 193 patients (93% female): 34 younger, 74 middle-aged, and 85 older.

RESULTS

The preoperative hallux valgus angle was significantly greater in older patients (P < .001). The older group had 3 perioperative complications (P = .144) and showed a trend toward a longer hospital stay (P = .083). There was no difference in visual analog scale, American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society score, or SF-36 among the groups at 6 months or 2 years. Using multiple regression, age was not associated with any outcome score. The satisfaction rates were 82%, 78%, and 83% in the young, middle-aged, and older groups, respectively (P = .698). There was no difference in the number of reoperations at a mean follow-up of 9.2 ± 2.2 years (P = .778), and no patients underwent reoperation for recurrent hallux valgus. The risk of recurrence was 5 times higher in older patients compared with younger patients (OR, 5.15; 95% CI, 1.10-24.03; P = .037).

CONCLUSION

Age did not influence the perioperative, functional, or subjective outcomes following hallux valgus surgery. However, older patients should be counseled on the higher risk of recurrence following surgical correction.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic, level III, retrospective comparative series.

Intermediate-term Patient-Reported Outcomes and Radiographic Evaluation Following Intramedullary- vs Extramedullary-Referenced Total Ankle Replacement

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to report on the radiographic outcomes, clinical outcomes, and implant survivorship following extramedullary-referenced (EMr) vs intramedullary-referenced (IMr) total ankle replacement (TAR).

METHODS

From May 2007 to February 2018, a consecutive series of patients with end-stage tibiotalar osteoarthritis undergoing TAR was enrolled in this study. Analyses were performed comparing IMr vs EMr components for patient-reported outcomes data, pre- and postoperative radiographic ankle alignment, concomitant procedures, and complications. Kaplan-Meier survivorship analyses served to determine implant reoperation and revision surgery. A total of 340 TARs were included with 105 IMr TAR and 235 EMr TAR. The mean follow-up was 5.3 years (±2.5, range 2-12).

RESULTS

The absolute value for preoperative coronal alignment was significantly greater for IMr compared to EMr TAR (13.0 vs 6.4 degrees; P < .0001), but both groups achieved near neutral alignment postoperatively (1.4 vs 1.5 degrees; P = .6655). The odds of having a concomitant procedure was 2.7 times higher in patients with an IMr TAR (OR 2.7, CI 1.7-4.4; P < .0001). There were similar improvements in patient-reported outcome scores at 1 year and final follow-up (all P > .05). The 5-year implant survivorship was 98.6% for IMr vs 97.5% for EMr at final follow-up.

CONCLUSION

The IMr and EMr TAR components had comparable postoperative alignment, patient-reported outcome scores, and complications. The 5-year implant survivorship was similar between the IMr and EMr groups.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, retrospective comparative study.

Women after Bilateral Surgical Correction of Hallux Valgus Do Not Show Improvement in Spatiotemporal Gait Parameters at 18 Weeks Postoperatively

Background: Hallux valgus (HV) is a gait-altering orthopedic deformity, somewhat more prevalent in women, which often affects both limbs. Although surgery is a commonly applied treatment, there is no consensus in the literature on how invasive HV correction affects spatiotemporal gait parameters, or how quickly improvement can be expected. We investigated gait parameters in female HV patients who underwent bilateral surgical correction of hallux valgus, both preoperatively and 18 weeks following surgery (a timeframe relevant from the perspective of physical therapy), and also in relation to a non-HV control group. Methods: A total of 23 women aged 40–70 years, with moderate to severe HV deformity in both feet, were assessed preoperatively and 18 weeks postoperatively, and an age-matched control group of 76 healthy women was also assessed. A total of 22 spatiotemporal parameters were collected during 30 s walks over an electronic walkway (Zebris Medical System). Results: Of the 22 parameters analyzed, significant differences between the preoperative experimental and control groups were found only in 4 parameters (Velocity, Right step time, Total double support and Stride time), but in 16 parameters between the postoperative experimental and control groups (the greatest impact being found for: Left and Right Step time, Stride time, Cadence, Right Foot rotation, Left Step length (% leg length) and Stride length (% leg length)). Conclusions: Women after bilateral HV correction did not exhibit improved (i.e., more normal) gait parameters at 18 weeks postoperatively; rather, they showed more gait abnormalities than preoperatively. These findings urge longer-term planning of postoperative rehabilitation, involving continual evaluation of gait improvement.

Minimal important change for the visual analogue scale foot and ankle (VAS-FA)

BACKGROUND

Visual analogue scale foot and ankle (VAS-FA) is a patient-reported outcome measure for foot and ankle disorders. The VAS-FA is validated into several languages and well adopted into use. Nonetheless, minimal important change (MIC) for the VAS-FA has not been estimated thus far.

METHODS

The VAS-FA score was obtained from 106 patients undergoing surgery for various foot and ankle complaints. MIC was estimated using an anchor-based predictive method.

RESULTS

The adjusted MIC was 6.8 for total VAS-FA score, and 9.3 for the Pain, 5.8 for the Function, and 5.7 for the Other complaints subscales. The VAS-FA score was found to separate improvement and deterioration in patients' foot and ankle condition.

CONCLUSIONS

MIC was successfully defined for the VAS-FA in the current study. The VAS-FA can be used to evaluate foot and ankle patients' clinical foot and ankle status and its change. Further research on estimating disease-specific MICs is recommended.

Validity of five foot and ankle specific electronic patient-reported outcome (ePRO) instruments in patients undergoing elective orthopedic foot or ankle surgery

BACKGROUND

Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) are widely accepted measures for evaluating outcomes of surgical interventions. As patient-reported information is stored in electronic health records, it is essential that there are valid electronic PRO (ePRO) instruments available for clinicians and researchers. The aim of this study was to evaluate the validity of electronic versions of five widely used foot and ankle specific PRO instruments.

METHODS

Altogether 111 consecutive elective foot/ankle surgery patients were invited face-to-face to participate in this study. Patients completed electronic versions of the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM), the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS), the modified Lower Extremity Function Scale (LEFS), the Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire (MOXFQ), and the Visual Analogue Scale Foot and Ankle (VAS-FA) on the day of elective foot and/or ankle surgery. Construct validity, coverage, and targeting of the scales were assessed.

RESULTS

Based on general and predefined thresholds, construct validity, coverage, and targeting of the ePRO versions of the FAAM, the FAOS, the MOXFQ, and the VAS-FA were acceptable. Major issues arose with score distribution and convergent validity of the modified LEFS instrument.

CONCLUSIONS

The ePRO versions of the FAAM, the FAOS, the MOXFQ, and the VAS-FA provide valid scores for foot and ankle patients. However, our findings do not support the use of the modified LEFS as an electronic outcome measure for patients with orthopedic foot and/or ankle pathologies.

Structural validity of the Finnish Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire (MOXFQ) using the Rasch model

BACKGROUND

The 16-item patient-reported Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire (MOXFQ) with subscales of pain, social interactions, and walking/standing has been claimed for strongest scientific evidence in measuring foot and ankle complaints. This study tests the validity of the Finnish MOXFQ for orthopaedic foot and ankle population using the Rasch analysis.

METHODS

We translated the MOXFQ into Finnish and used that translation in our study. MOXFQ scores were obtained from 183 patients. Response category distribution, item fit, coverage, targeting, item dependency, ability to measure latent trait (unidimensionality), internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha), and person separation index (PSI) were analyzed.

RESULTS

Fifteen of the items had ordered response categories and/or sufficient fit statistics. The subscales provided coverage and targeting. Some residual correlation was noted. Removing one item in the pain subscale led to a unidimensional structure. Alphas and PSIs ranged between 0.68-0.90 and 0.67-0.92, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite some infractions of the Rasch model, the instrument functioned well. The subscales of the MOXFQ are meaningful for assessing patient-reported complaints and outcomes in orthopaedic foot and ankle population.

Application of Computerized Adaptive Testing to the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure

BACKGROUND

Patient-reported outcome measures are an increasingly important tool for assessing the impact of treatments orthopedic surgeons render. Despite their importance, they can present a burden. We examined the validity and utility of a computerized adaptive testing (CAT) method to reduce the number of questions on the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM), a validated anatomy-specific outcome measure.

METHODS

A previously developed FAAM CAT system was applied to the responses of patients undergoing foot and ankle evaluation and treatment over a 3-year period (2017-2019). A total of 15 902 responses for the Activities of Daily Living (ADL) subscale and a total of 14 344 responses for the Sports subscale were analyzed. The accuracy of the CAT to replicate the full-form score was assessed.

RESULTS

The CAT system required 11 questions to be answered for the ADL subscale in 85.1% of cases (range, 11-12). The number of questions answered on the Sports subscale was 6 (range, 5-6) in 66.4% of cases. The mean difference between the full FAAM ADL subscale and CAT was 0.63 of a point. The mean difference between the FAAM Sports subscale and CAT was 0.65 of a point.

CONCLUSION

The FAAM CAT was able to reduce the number of responses a patient would need to answer by nearly 50%, while still providing a valid outcome score. This measure can therefore be directly correlated with previously obtained full FAAM scores in addition to providing a foot/ankle-specific measure, which previously reported CAT systems are not able to do.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, case series.

Is the Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement Information System Feasible in Bundled Payment for Care Improvement Total Knee Arthroplasty Patients?

BACKGROUND

Several bundled payment plans, like the Bundled Payment for Care Improvement (BPCI) initiative for total joint arthroplasty, have been introduced to decrease costs and improve clinical care. Measuring clinical outcomes with efficient, standardized methodologies is essential to determine the relative value of total joint arthroplasty care. We investigated feasibility and responsiveness of the recently developed Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) patients.

METHODS

We included patients with preoperative and 1-year PROMIS Physical Function (PF), Pain Interference (PI), and Depression (DEP) scores who received unilateral primary TKA. Burden was assessed using the number of questions and time required for PROMIS completion. The minimum clinically important difference was defined as 5. Floor/ceiling effects were noted if more than 15% of patients responded with the lowest/highest possible score, respectively. Wilcoxon rank-sum test was used to compare categorical data. Analysis of variance was used for PROMIS comparisons.

RESULTS

In total, 172 knees (54 BPCI) were included. Floor effects were identified for DEP at baseline (non-BPCI) and follow-up (both groups), and for PI at follow-up only (BPCI). Patients required 140 seconds and 16 questions to answer all 3 PROMIS domains. Sixty-seven percent, 60%, and 44% of knees achieved minimum clinically important difference in PI, PF, and DEP scores respectively, with no significant difference between groups. The BPCI cohort was older (P < .001) with a higher American Society of Anesthesiologists score (P = .028). There were no significant differences in scores between BPCI and non-BPCI patients.

CONCLUSION

PROMIS is feasible and time-efficient in BPCI patients undergoing primary TKA. There were no significant differences in outcomes between BPCI and non-BPCI knees.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Economic Analysis and Clinical Outcomes of Short-Stay Versus Inpatient Total Ankle Replacement Surgery

BACKGROUND

We aimed to perform an economic analysis and compare the clinical outcomes between inpatient and short-stay designation total ankle replacement (TAR).

METHODS

We performed a retrospective study on 178 consecutive patients undergoing primary inpatient versus short-stay designation TAR during the 2016 and 2017 fiscal years. Patient demographics, concomitant procedures, perioperative complications, patient-reported outcomes, and perioperative costs were collected.

RESULTS

The mean age of our cohort was 62.5 ± 9.6 years (range, 30-88 years), with a significant difference in age (64.1 vs 58.5 years) (P = .005) and Charlson Comorbidity Index (3.3 ± 1.9 vs 2.3 ± 1.4; P = .002) for the inpatient and short-stay designation groups, respectively. At a mean follow-up of 29.6 ± 11.8 months (range, 12-52.3 months), there was no difference in complications between groups (P = .97). The inpatient designation TAR group had a worse baseline Short Musculoskeletal Functional Assessment (SMFA) function score (76.1; 95% CI, 70.5-81.6) than the short-stay designation TAR group (63.9; 95% CI, 52.5-75.3) while achieving similar final postoperative SMFA function scores for the inpatient (55.2; 95% CI, 51.1-59.2) and short-stay (56.2; 95% CI, 48.2-64.2) designation TAR groups (P > .05). However, the inpatient designation TAR group showed a significantly greater mean improvement in SMFA function score (20.9; 95% CI, 19.4-22.4) compared with the short-stay designation TAR group (7.7; 95% CI, 3.7-11.1) (P = .0442). The total direct cost was significantly higher for the inpatient designation group ($15 340) than the short-stay designation group ($13 002) (P < .001).

CONCLUSION

While inpatient designation TARs were more comorbid, short-stay designation TARs were associated with a 15.5% reduction in perioperative costs, comparable complication rates, and similar final postoperative patient-reported outcome scores compared with inpatient TARs.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, retrospective comparative study.

Sagittal Tibiotalar Alignment May Not Affect Functional Outcomes in Fixed-Bearing Total Ankle Replacement: A Retrospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

In total ankle replacement (TAR), correct positioning of the implant is crucial. Malposition of the components may increase contact pressures and diminish prosthesis survival. The effect of sagittal tibiotalar alignment on functional outcomes after fixed-bearing TAR remains unclear, however, and no studies have compared fixed-bearing implants with respect to the anteroposterior (AP) position of the talar component.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSE

The purposes of this study were (1) to evaluate the effect of sagittal tibiotalar alignment on functional outcomes in fixed-bearing TAR and (2) to compare post-operative sagittal tibiotalar alignment in two types of fixed-bearing implants.

METHODS

In a retrospective analysis of 71 primary TARs performed at a single center, we studied the INBONE™ II Total Ankle System and the Salto Talaris^® Ankle. Radiographic measurements of the tibial axis-talus (T-T) ratio and the AP offset ratio were performed before and after surgery, respectively, and we evaluated Foot and Ankle Outcome Scores (FAOSs) and the 12-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-12) mental component summary (MCS) and physical component summary (PCS) scales pre-operatively and at 2 years after surgery. The Pearson correlation and independent-samples t test were used to evaluate differences in FAOSs, SF-12 MCS scores, and SF-12 PCS scores regarding post-operative sagittal alignment.

RESULTS

Post-operative sagittal tibiotalar alignment was neutral in 39 ankles and anterior in 32 ankles. We observed no significant between-group differences in clinical outcome scores. Patients with a Salto Talaris Ankle prosthesis had a greater AP offset ratio (0.12) than patients with an INBONE II implant (0.05). However, the greater translation did not correlate with outcome scores.

CONCLUSION

At the 2-year follow-up, no correlation between the post-operative AP offset ratio and functional outcome scores was observed between the two fixed-bearing-implant groups. Further studies with longer follow-up are needed to determine whether the difference in sagittal alignment has an effect on functional outcomes in the long term.

Publishing Characteristics of Foot and Ankle Research Over a 15-Year Time Interval: A Review of The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery from 2004 to 2018

BACKGROUND

As the foot and ankle subspecialty continues to grow in orthopaedics, trends in published literature provide valuable insights to help understand and strengthen the field. The current study evaluates the changes in the characteristics of foot and ankle articles in The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery (American Volume) (JBJS-A) from 2004 to 2018.

METHODS

Foot and ankle-related articles in JBJS-A from 2004 to 2018 were identified and categorized by type of study, level of evidence, number of authors, academic degree(s) of the first and last authors, male and female authorship, number of citations, number of references, region of publication, and use of patient-reported outcomes (PROs).

RESULTS

A total of 336 foot and ankle articles from 2004 to 2018 were reviewed. The type of study published has changed over time, with more clinical therapeutic evidence and less case reports. The level of evidence grades, as rated by JBJS-A and objective evaluators, have increased over the past 15 years. The total number of authors per article has increased, and female authorship has increased significantly. The number of references per article has increased, and the number of citations per year has decreased. The field of foot and ankle surgery has seen an increase in global publications.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study suggest that the foot and ankle literature that has been published in JBJS-A has continued to increase in quality and diversity over the past 15 years.

Operative Treatment of Ankle Fractures: Predictive Factors Affecting Outcome

Purpose

Surgical management of ankle fractures has been extensively studied in literature but studies investigating validated clinical results are lacking and controversial. The purpose of this study was to evaluate functional and health-related quality of life (HRQL) outcomes after surgically treated ankle fractures and to detect some of their predictors.

Methods

Two hundred sixty-six skeletally mature patients who underwent surgery for an isolated ankle fracture from 2006 to 2017 were retrospectively identified from our hospital records and included in the study. All patients were evaluated at one, three, six and 12 months post-injury with clinical and radiographic examination. Outcome measures recorded at final two years minimum follow-up included patient-reported pain, patient satisfaction, functional (American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot score) and quality of life (Short Form (SF) 36 score) status.

Results

Patient satisfaction score was 8.4 out of 10, Visual Analogue Scale mean score was 2.3, complication rate was 36.5% and mean AOFAS ankle-hindfoot score was 87.3. Mean SF36-physical summary score was 77.9 and SF36-mental summary score was 81.1. The injury demonstrated a significant effect on physical function, role-physical, bodily pain and social functioning SF-36 subdomains. Functional outcome was significantly related to occupation, syndesmotic lesion, number of fractured malleoli and delay to surgery. Main predictors of quality of life were age, occupation, cause of injury, syndesmotic lesion, number of fractured malleoli and waiting time to surgery.

Conclusions

Ankle fractures have a considerable impact on functional and quality of life status of patients. Occupation, presence of syndesmotic injury, Pott's classification and surgery delay must be considered as predictors of final outcome.

Comparison of Patient-Reported Outcomes for Major Pathologies of the Forefoot, Midfoot, Hindfoot, and Achilles Using PROMIS

Background:

Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) is a newly developed patient-reported outcome that has been validated for the general foot and ankle population and has been applied to a variety of specific foot and ankle procedures. However, there is little data regarding clinical outcomes of patients at a more intermediate subgroup level. Thus, our study utilized PROMIS to provide normative data on pathologic conditions of the foot and ankle and assess postoperative outcomes based on anatomical location.

Methods:

Preoperative and 1-year postoperative PROMIS Physical Function (PF) and Pain Interference (PI) surveys were prospectively collected from a cohort of patients undergoing a foot and ankle procedure at a tertiary medical center. The cohort was split into forefoot (n = 136), midfoot (n = 44), hindfoot (n = 109), and Achilles (n = 62) procedure groups. Paired-t tests were used to compare preoperative versus postoperative outcomes within operative groups, while a 1-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to detect differences in PROMIS scores between anatomic subgroups.

Results:

Paired t tests indicated that all 4 operative groups had significantly improved PROMIS PF and PI scores preoperatively versus 1 year postoperatively (all P < .001). One-way ANOVA demonstrated that there were no differences in postoperative PROMIS PF and PI scores between anatomic subgroups. A majority of patients achieved the minimal clinically important difference level of improvement in PROMIS PF and PI scores following surgery.

Conclusions:

All 4 operative groups had improvement in physical function and pain outcomes. Additionally, there were no differences in physical function and pain outcomes between operative groups.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective cohort study.

Efficacy of electroacupuncture plus warm needling therapy for plantar heel pain: a randomised waitlist-controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the therapeutic effects of electroacupuncture plus warm needling (EAWN) therapy on pain and foot function in adults with plantar heel pain (PHP).

METHODS

This prospective, randomised, parallel-group, waitlist-controlled trial was conducted at a Chinese medicine centre in Hong Kong between May 2018 and February 2019. Eighty eligible community-dwelling subjects with PHP (mean age 59.7 years; 85% female) were equally randomised to receive EAWN therapy or remain on a waitlist. The treatment group received six 30-min sessions of standardised EAWN therapy over 4 weeks; the control group received no treatment. The outcome measures were the visual analogue scale (VAS) score for first-step pain, foot function index (FFI) scores and global rating of change (GRC) scale scores. Assessments were made at baseline, week 2 and week 4 (primary endpoint). The treatment group underwent additional assessments at week 8. Outcomes were evaluated by intention-to-treat analysis.

RESULTS

Patients who received EAWN therapy exhibited greater improvements in the mean first-step pain VAS and all FFI scores than did those in the control group at weeks 2 and 4, with significant between-group differences (all P < 0.001). Compared with baseline, there were significant decreases in mean first-step pain VAS scores at weeks 2 and 4, and FFI scores at week 4, in the treatment group but not in the control group. The improvements in the treatment group continued until week 8. GRC scores at week 4 indicated improvement in all treated patients and only 22.5% of the control group patients (P < 0.001). There were no study-related adverse events.

CONCLUSION

EAWN therapy could be an effective treatment for PHP in middle-aged and older adults.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ChiCTR1800014906 (Chinese Clinical Trials Registry).

Temporary Bridge Plating vs Primary Arthrodesis of the First Tarsometatarsal Joint in Lisfranc Injuries: Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Unstable Lisfranc injuries are best treated with anatomic reduction and stable fixation. There are controversies regarding which type of stabilization is best. In the present study, we compared primary arthrodesis of the first tarsometatarsal (TMT) joint to temporary bridge plating in unstable Lisfranc injuries.

METHODS

Forty-eight patients with Lisfranc injuries were included and followed for 2 years. Twenty-four patients were randomized to primary arthrodesis (PA) of the medial 3 TMT joints, whereas 24 patients were randomized to temporary bridge plate (BP) over the first TMT joint and primary arthrodesis of the second and third TMT joints. The main outcome parameter was the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) midfoot scale and the secondary outcome parameters were the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) and visual analog scale for pain (VAS pain). Computed tomography (CT) scans pre- and postoperatively were obtained. Radiographs were obtained at follow-ups. Pedobarographic examination was performed at the 2-year follow-up. Twenty-two of 24 patients in the PA and 23/24 in the BP group completed the 2-year follow-up.

RESULTS

The mean AOFAS midfoot score 2 years postoperatively was 89 (SD 9) in the PA group and 85 (SD 15) in the BP group (P = .32). There were no significant differences between the groups with regard to SF-36 or VAS pain scores. The alignment of the first metatarsal was better in the BP group than in the PA group measured by the anteroposterior Meary angle (P = .04). The PA group had a reduced peak pressure under the fifth metatarsal (P = .047). In the BP group, 11/24 patients had radiologic signs of osteoarthritis in the first TMT joint.

CONCLUSION

Both treatment groups had good outcome scores. The first metatarsal was better aligned in the BP group; however, there was a high incidence of radiographic osteoarthritis in this group.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic level I, prospective randomized controlled study.

Effectiveness of hallux valgus surgery on patient quality of life: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background and purpose - The quality of life (QoL) of patients with hallux valgus (HV) usually improves postoperatively. Evidence regarding the effect of HV surgery on different domains of patient QoL remains inconclusive. This systematic review and meta-analysis estimates the effect of HV surgery on patient QoL through distinguishing effects on physical domains (comprising physical function and body pain domains) using the EuroQol-5D, short form (SF) health survey-12, and SF-36 QoL scales and a visual analogue scale (VAS) score and mental and social domains using QoL scales.Patients and methods - MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases were systematically searched from inception to March 2019 for studies on the effect of HV surgery on patient QoL. A standardized mean difference score was calculated for each specific QoL domain (mental, social, pain, physical, and VAS) using Cohen's d index. The pooled effect size (ES) was estimated using a random-effects model based on the DerSimonian and Laird method.Results - From 12 published studies selected, the estimated pooled ES for QoL was 1.01 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.52-1.51; I² = 87%) for body pain and 0.43 (CI 0.31-0.55, I² = 35%) for physical function. Regarding the composite mental and social domains of QoL, the pooled ES estimates were 0.24 (CI 0.00-0.47, I² = 80%) and 0.42 (CI 0.21-0.63, I² = 6.4%), respectively. The pooled difference in means for the VAS score was -4.1 (CI -4.5 to -3.6, I² = 90%).Interpretation - Our data showed that HV surgery decreased patients' perceptions regarding pain. Furthermore, the data confirmed that HV surgery increased patients' QoL, particularly concerning physical and social domains.

A novel approach for simultaneous tibiofibular synostosis takedown and peroneus longus ligamentoplasty for posttraumatic tibiofibular synostosis: a case report and review of the literature

Introduction

A singular procedure involving both a distal tibiofibular synostosis resection with syndesmosis repair by peroneus longus ligamentoplasty has not been reported in the English literature. We report a case of simultaneous distal tibiofibular synostosis resection and syndesmosis stabilization by peroneus longus ligamentoplasty for the treatment of symptomatic distal tibiofibular synostosis formation, following neglected syndesmosis injury.

Case presentation

A 42-year-old Caucasian man presented with ankle pain and painful range of motion 20 months following ankle trauma. Distal tibiofibular synostosis was identified, and our patient was successfully treated by simultaneous synostosis takedown and peroneus longus ligamentoplasty for distal tibiofibular syndesmosis repair.

Conclusions

Our experience illustrates that in cases of painful posttraumatic distal tibiofibular synostosis, simultaneous synostosis resection with peroneus longus ligamentoplasty may show good clinical results.

Level of evidence

5

Validity and internal consistency of the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society Midfoot Scale in patients with Lisfranc injury

BACKGROUND

The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Midfoot Scale is an extensively used outcome measure instrument for evaluating outcomes after foot and ankle surgery or trauma.

METHODS

In total, 117 patients with Lisfranc injury completed the AOFAS Midfoot Scale and the Visual Analogue Scale Foot and Ankle (VAS-FA) instruments. Internal consistency (correlation between different items), floor and ceiling values, convergent validity, item threshold distribution, and the coverage (item difficulty) of the AOFAS Midfoot scale were tested.

RESULTS

AOFAS Midfoot Scale had high convergent validity and acceptable internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha >0.70). The ceiling effect was confirmed. The person-item distribution indicated that the scale had a lack of coverage and targeting in our sample.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggests that the AOFAS Midfoot Scale has acceptable validity and internal consistency. However, due to the lack of coverage and targeting, it should not be the primary outcome measure to be used to evaluate the outcomes after Lisfranc injury in the future studies.

Symptom and Disability Measurement by Common Foot and Ankle-Specific Outcome Rating Scales

BACKGROUND

Well-designed foot and ankle clinical outcomes research requires region-specific subjective outcome measures. Many foot and ankle-specific instruments are now available. Determining which instruments to choose is daunting. We present a patient survey to determine the most relevant questions pertaining to them.

METHODS

Sixteen foot and ankle-specific outcome instruments were chosen based on popularity, emphasizing valid, reliable, responsive scores. Subjective portions were consolidated and given to 109 patients with osteochondral lesion of the talus (OLT) (39), ankle instability (35), and ankle arthritis (35). Outcome instruments were measured according to 4 criteria: number of questions endorsed by 51%, number with high mean importance, number with low mean importance, and number with the highest-ranking frequency importance product. Instruments were then ranked based on relative score, with the highest scores indicating the instrument was the most useful for that sample.

RESULTS

The Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) achieved the highest score in all 4 categories for OLT, followed by Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) and American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) Foot and Ankle Score. The FAOS achieved the highest score in all 4 categories for ankle instability, followed by FAAM and AAOS. For osteoarthritis, the FAOS achieved the highest relative score followed by FAAM and AAOS. The AOF, Ankle Osteoarthritis Score, and AAS are instruments commonly used that had lower relative scores.

CONCLUSION

The FAOS, FAAM, and AAOS Foot and Ankle Score contain several items important to patients with osteochondral lesions of the talus, ankle instability, and ankle osteoarthritis.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level II, prospective comparative study.

Outcomes of Operative Management of Insertional Achilles Tendinopathy in the Young vs Elderly

Background:

Insertional Achilles tendinopathy (IAT) is a common cause of chronic posterior heel pain. Surgical intervention reproducibly improves patients’ pain and functional status. We hypothesized that patients older than 60 years would have similar improvements in pain and function and low rates of complications after surgery for IAT when compared to a younger cohort.

Methods:

Retrospective review of adult case series in patients undergoing surgical management of IAT. Patients were stratified into those 60 years and younger and those older than 60 years. Patients with prior or concomitant surgical procedures and revisions were excluded. Visual analog scale (VAS), Short Form–36 Physical Component Summary and Mental Component Summary (SF-36 PCS/MCS) scores, wound infection, and recurrence, defined as a redevelopment of heel pain in the operative extremity within 6 months, were assessed with a minimum follow-up of 12 months. Statistical analysis was performed using linear regression mixed models and χ2 analysis. Thirty-seven patients were enrolled, with 38 operative heels. The younger cohort had an average age of 49.1 (range, 26-60) years. The older group had an average age of 66.8 (range, 61-76) years.

Results:

VAS and SF-36 PCS scores for the entire cohort significantly improved at 6 and 12 months postoperatively ( P < .001). Postoperative SF-36 MCS scores for the cohort significantly improved only at 12 months ( P < .001). No significant differences between the young and elderly were seen with regard to improvements in VAS and SF-36 PCS/MCS at 6 or 12 months postoperatively. Multiple linear regression models showed no significant difference between age groups and VAS score, SF-36 PCS/MCS, or change in pain scores after controlling for comorbidities. No significant difference in overall complication rates was seen between the 2 groups (4.9% vs 29.4%, P = .104). There was 1 recurrence of heel pain in the younger group and 4 recurrences of pain in the older group (23.5%) at 6 months, of which 2 resolved at 1 year. There was 1 case of a superficial wound infection requiring antibiotics in the older cohort (5.9%). No patients required surgical revision.

Conclusion:

Surgical management of IAT in an older population produced similar improvements in clinical results when compared to a younger cohort, with no significant increase in postoperative complications.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective comparative series.

Is the Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement Information System Feasible in Bundled Payment for Care Improvement in Total Hip Arthroplasty Patients?

BACKGROUND

The Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) is increasingly used to assess patient health. The Bundled Payment for Care Improvement (BPCI) initiative for total hip arthroplasty (THA) was introduced to decrease costs and improve clinical care. We investigated differences between BPCI and non-BPCI THA patients and their PROMIS scores, along with its feasibility and responsiveness in these populations.

METHODS

We included all consecutive patients receiving unilateral primary THA who also had preoperative and one-year postoperative PROMIS physical function (PF), PROMIS pain interference (PI), and PROMIS depression (DEP) scores. Demographics and PROMIS scores were compared. Test burden was assessed using the number of questions and time required for PROMIS completion. The minimum clinically important difference was defined as 5. Floor and ceiling effects were noted if more than 15% of patients responded with the lowest or highest possible score, respectively. Wilcoxon rank-sum test was used to compare categorical data. ANOVA was used for PROMIS comparisons.

RESULTS

290 hips (86 BPCI, 30%) were included. The BPCI cohort was older (P < .001) with a higher American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status classification system (P = .0045). There were significant differences in baseline scores of PF and DEP between BPCI and non-BPCI (P = .046 and P = .048, respectively). Both groups showed significant improvement at follow-up in all scores (all P < .001). Significantly more non-BPCI patients achieved minimum clinically important difference at follow-up in PI and PF (P = .047 and P = .023, respectively). Floor effects were identified for DEP at baseline and follow-up and for PI at follow-up only.

CONCLUSION

PROMIS is feasible and time-efficient in BPCI patients undergoing primary THA. There were significant differences between BPCI and non-BPCI hips.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Mobility Limitation After Surgery for Degenerative Pathology of the Ankle, Hindfoot, and Midfoot vs Total Hip Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Surgery for degenerative foot and ankle conditions often results in a lengthy recovery. Current outcome measures do not accurately assess postoperative mobility, especially in older patients. The Life-Space Assessment (LSA), a questionnaire quantifying patients' mobility after a medical event, was used in this study to assess perioperative mobility in total hip arthroplasty (THA) and foot and ankle surgery patients. We hypothesized that patients undergoing elective foot and ankle surgery would have greater postoperative mobility limitation than THA patients.

METHODS

Preoperative, 3-month, and 6-month postoperative LSA data were collected from THA and foot and ankle cohorts. Twelve-month postoperative data were obtained for the foot and ankle group as well. Patient demographics were recorded, and data were analyzed using a Mann-Whitney U test.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight degenerative foot and ankle operative patients and 38 THA patients met inclusion criteria. Only patients aged ≥60 years were included in this study. The mean preoperative LSA score was lower in the foot and ankle group (68.8) compared with THA (74.0), although the difference was not statistically significant (P = .602). THA patients showed a significant increase in LSA score from preoperative (74) to 6 months postoperation (95.9) (P = .003); however, foot and ankle patients showed no significant difference between preoperative (68.8) and 6-month (61.2) scores (P = .468). Twelve months postoperatively, foot and ankle patients showed improvement in LSA score (88.3) compared with preoperation (P = .065).

CONCLUSION

Compared with THA, recovery of mobility after foot and ankle surgery was slower. THA patients exhibited improved mobility as early as 3 months after surgery, whereas foot and ankle patients did not show full improvement until 12 months. This work will assist the foot and ankle specialist in educating patients about challenges in mobility during their recovery from surgery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level II, prospective cohort study.

Assessment of the structural validity of three foot and ankle specific patient-reported outcome measures

BACKGROUND

The structural validity of the Lower extremity functional scale (LEFS), the Visual analogue scale foot and ankle (VAS-FA), and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities osteoarthritis index (WOMAC) has not been compared earlier in patients after foot and ankle surgery.

METHODS

Altogether 165 previously operated patients completed the foot and ankle specific instruments, the 15D health-related quality of life (HRQoL) instrument, and general health (VAS).

RESULTS

The LEFS, the VAS-FA and the WOMAC had slight differences in their measurement properties. The VAS-FA had the best targeting and coverage. All three foot and ankle measures accounted for mobility and usual activities when compared to the different aspects of generic HRQoL.

CONCLUSIONS

The LEFS, the VAS-FA and the WOMAC have relatively similar psychometric properties among foot and ankle patients, yet the VAS-FA provides the best targeting and coverage.

Trends and Characteristics of Spine Research From 2006 to 2015: A Review of Spine Articles in a High Impact General Orthopedic Journal

STUDY DESIGN

Literature review.

OBJECTIVE

To determine characteristics and trends in published spine research over a recent decade in a high impact, general orthopedic surgery journal.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Recent trends in published spine research in a high-impact orthopedic surgery journal are unknown. Such knowledge could guide future research in the field.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature review of clinical and basic science spine articles published in The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery from 2006 to 2015 was conducted. Articles were assessed for: title, year of publication, authorship, academic degrees of the authors, number of citations, institution of origin, and spine topic. Clinical articles were evaluated for: sex and race/ethnicity of the human subjects, level of evidence, and inclusion of patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). Basic science articles were evaluated for: type of study (animal, cadaver, cell-based), sex of the animals, cadavers or cells studied (male, female, or male and female), and presence of sex-based reporting (defined as reporting of results by sex).

RESULTS

A total of 203 spine articles were evaluated from the 10-year study period. At least 35 validated or nonvalidated patient-reported outcome measures were utilized in clinical spine research. The most commonly reported PROMs were the Oswestry Disability Index (24.4%), Short Form-36 Health Survey (23.7%), and Visual Analog Scale for Pain (19.3%). The average level of evidence improved from 3.25 in 2006 to 2.60 in 2015. Only 13.2% of clinical spine articles reported the race/ethnicity of the subjects.

CONCLUSION

A consensus regarding validated PROMs in spine research would be valuable. From 2006 to 2015, the level of evidence of spine articles in The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery improved. Accurate and complete reporting of patient demographics is an area for improvement in spine research in light of studies demonstrating sex and race/ethnicity-related differences in clinical outcome after spine surgery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

5.

Effectiveness of subtalar arthroereisis with endorthesis for pediatric flexible flat foot: a retrospective cross-sectional study with final follow up at skeletal maturity

BACKGROUND

Pediatric flexible flatfoot is sometimes asymptomatic but it can rarely cause physical impairment, pain, and difficulty walking. We evaluated the radiographic effectiveness of intervention of subtalar arthroereisis with endorthesis for pediatric flexible flatfoot with final follow-up at skeletal maturity.

METHODS

This is a retrospective cross-sectional study. 56 consecutive patients (112 feet) who underwent surgical treatment with subtalar arthroereisis for pediatric flexible flatfoot (mean age at final follow-up 15.5±1.2 years, 39.3% female) were enrolled. All the radiographic studies were performed in the hospital. Radiographs (standard weight-bearing radiographs of the foot with anteroposterior and lateral view) were used to measure lateral talocalcaneal angle (LTC), calcaneal pitch angle (CP), Meary's angle (MA), anteroposterior talonavicular angle (APTN), talonavicular uncoverage percent (TNU). Minimum follow-up was 18 months. Measures were assessed pre-operatively and at the final follow-up. Clinical and functional parameters were assessed at the final follow-up.

RESULTS

Children who underwent surgical treatment with subtalar arthroereisis for pediatric flexible flatfoot exhibited a statistically significant improvement in all radiographic measurement parameters at the last follow-up at skeletal maturity (all, p<0.004). Mean follow-up was 40.1±23.6months. Clinical parameters were not correlated with the foot radiographic parameters at follow up period.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that endorthesis in pediatric flexible flatfoot was effective for improving radiographic parameters at skeletal maturity. The amount of the morphologic correction at the end of the skeletal growth should be expected mainly for lateral tarso-metatarsal alignment and talo-navicular congruency (MA, APTN, TNU).

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, retrospective study.

Systematic review of measurement instruments for patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis in the foot and ankle

INTRODUCTION

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common rheumatic disease in childhood. The part of the body most commonly affected, and where cysts are most likely to form, is in the small joints of the foot. The aim of this review was to identify self-reported outcome measures specific to the foot and ankle in patients with JIA and to investigate the methodological quality and psychometric properties of these measures.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

A search was conducted for JIA in the PubMed, SCOPUS, CINAHL, PEDro and Google Scholar databases. The systematic review performed was based on the following inclusion criteria: population (with JIA) aged under 16 years; validation studies of patient-reported outcomes specific to the foot and ankle, in various languages, with no time limit. Two authors independently evaluated and assessed the quality of the studies, and extracted data using Terwee's criteria and the COSMIN checklist. No meta-analysis was carried out, due to the heterogeneity of the dimensions and outcomes included in each study.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Of the initial 67 studies considered, only five met the inclusion criteria for this review. Many of these studies presented significant methodological flaws, in areas such as construct validity, responsiveness, floor/ceiling effect and interpretability.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the very low quality of the available evidence, the Italian-language adaptation of the Oxford Ankle Foot Questionnaire presents acceptable methodological quality. However, further studies, with greater methodological rigor, are required. A review of psychometric properties and methodological quality of evidence for each Patient Reported Outcome Measures specific for the foot and ankle affected by juvenile idiopathic arthritis is provided.

Fulfillment of Expectations After Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Surgery

BACKGROUND

To date, no study has assessed fulfillment of patients' expectations after foot and ankle surgery. This study aimed to validate a method of assessing expectation fulfillment in foot/ankle patients postoperatively.

METHODS

Preoperatively, patients completed the expectations survey, consisting of 23 questions for domains including pain, ambulation, daily function, exercise, and shoe wear. At 2 years postoperatively, patients answered how much improvement they received for each item cited preoperatively. A fulfillment proportion (FP) was calculated as the amount of improvement received versus the amount of improvement expected. The FP ranges from 0 (no expectations fulfilled), to between 0 and 1 (expectations partially fulfilled), to 1 (expectations met), to greater than 1 (expectations surpassed). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and areas under the curve (AUCs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to compare the expectations survey to other outcome surveys, including Foot and Ankle Outcome Score, improvement, overall fulfillment, Delighted-Terrible scale, and satisfaction.

RESULTS

Of the 271 patients (mean age 55.4 years, mean BMI 27.5, 65% female), 34% had expectations surpassed (FP >1), 4% had expectations met, 58% had expectations partially fulfilled (FP between 0 and 1), and 5% had no expectations met. The mean FP was 0.84 ± 0.41 (range 0-3.13), indicating partially fulfilled expectations. FP correlated significantly with all outcome measures (P ≤ .007). FP was associated most closely with satisfaction (r = 0.66 [95% CI 0.57-0.75]; AUC = 0.92 [95% CI 0.88-0.96]; P < .001) and improvement (r = 0.73 [95% CI 0.64-0.81]; AUC = 0.94 [95% CI 0.91-0.96]; P < .001). Based on the associations with satisfaction and improvement outcomes, a clinically important proportion of expectations fulfilled is 0.68, with sensitivity 0.85-0.90 and specificity 0.84-0.86.

CONCLUSION

The proportion of expectations fulfilled is a novel patient-centered outcome that correlated with validated outcome measures. The expectations survey may be used by surgeons to counsel patients preoperatively and also to assess patients' results postoperatively.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level II, prospective comparative series.

Return to Sport After Arthroscopic Autologous Matrix-Induced Chondrogenesis for Patients With Osteochondral Lesion of the Talus

OBJECTIVE

To determine the rate of return of patients to sport after arthroscopic autologous matrix-induced chondrogenesis (AT-AMIC) for outcomes 2 years after surgery.

DESIGN

Retrospective observational cross-sectional study.

SETTING

C.A.S.C.O.-Foot and Ankle Unit, Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, Milan, Italy.

PATIENTS AND INTERVENTION

Twenty-six consecutive patients, 65.4% male (mean ± SD age: 33.7 ± 11.0 years), that underwent AT-AMIC procedure between 2012 and 2015 were selected retrospectively. From this population, only sporting patients at amateur's level were included. Arthroscopic autologous matrix-induced chondrogenesis was proposed in patients with pain and persistent disability.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

All patients were assessed with the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Score (AOFAS), physical component score of the 12-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-12), Halasi ankle activity score, and University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) activity scale preoperatively and at 24 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

Overall, 80.8% of the patient group returned to the same preinjury sport. The mean follow-up was 42.6 ± 10.9 months (range from 25 to 62 months). Significant differences were observed with reference to AOFAS, SF-12, Halasi, and UCLA scores at the last follow-up in patients who had undergone AT-AMIC (all, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

A high percentage of patients return to their preinjury sport after AT-AMIC surgery.

Validation of the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index in Patients Having Undergone Ankle Fracture Surgery

The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) is a patient-reported outcome measure (PROM) that is widely used to evaluate the pain, stiffness, and physical function of patients with osteoarthritis of the hip and knee. Although the WOMAC has also been used for patients after foot and ankle surgery, it has not been validated for this purpose. A total of 130 patients with surgically treated ankle fractures completed the WOMAC, Visual Analogue Scale Foot and Ankle (VAS FA), Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS), 15D Health-Related Quality-of-Life Questionnaire (15D), and Visual Analog Scale for General Health (VAS general health) after foot and ankle surgery. The structural validity of the WOMAC was assessed by using Cronbach's α, and convergent validity was tested between the WOMAC and reference outcome measures. Cronbach's α for the index score was 0.98 and 0.95, 0.86, and 0.98 for the Pain, Stiffness, and Physical Function subscales, respectively. The Spearman correlation coefficients were ‒0.84, ‒0.74, ‒0.58, and 0.55 for the VAS-FA, LEFS, 15D, and VAS general health, respectively. The relationships with the VAS-FA, LEFS, 15D, and VAS general health were strong. All relationships were statistically significant (p < .001). The WOMAC provides valid scores for assessing pain, stiffness, and physical function in patients having undergone ankle fracture surgery.

Safety and efficacy of surgical fixation of fibula fractures using an intramedullary nail: a retrospective observational cohort study in 30 patients

Background

Open reduction and internal fixation remains the standard treatment for displaced unstable ankle fractures. Plate fixation represents the most frequently used instrumentation option in fibula fractures and favourable outcomes have been reported. Recently, intramedullary nailing techniques have been suggested as a viable alternative resulting in less soft tissue disruption. The objectives of this study are to describe the surgical technique and to evaluate the safety and efficacy of using an intramedullary nail in patients undergoing surgical fixation of their fibula fracture.

Methods

A total of 30 skeletally mature patients with unstable ankle fracture who underwent intramedullary fixation of their fibula fractures from February 2016 to July 2017 were included in this retrospective study. Patients were evaluated using the Short Form-36 (SF-36) and the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) at 18 months after surgery.

Results

All patients went on to fracture union. Two patients required a secondary surgical procedure. No patient included in this series developed any wound complications. The mean Physical Component Summary (PCS) of the SF-36 was 53.90 ± 13.3 and the mean Mental Component Summary Score (MCS) was 52.63 ± 11.12. The AOFAS subscale scores were 34.67 ± 1.03 for pain, 42.40 ± 0.2997 for function and 9.50 ± 0.2785 for alignment.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates promising outcomes associated with intramedullary nail fixation of unstable fibula fractures. We recommend intramedullary nail fixation of fibula fractures to be a safe procedure with a low complication rate.

Level of evidence

Level 4 retrospective case series.

The effect of gender in hallux valgus surgery. A propensity score matched study

BACKGROUND

Males and females who undergo hallux valgus (HV) surgery have different expectations.

METHODS

Data from 439 patients, with 26 males, were prospectively collected between 2007-2015. Propensity score matching (PSM) of one male to two females was performed using logistic regression of six variables to minimize selection bias. Hallux visual analogue scale (VAS) scores, AOFAS scores, SF-36, satisfaction and expectation scores were analysed at two years.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in patient demographics after PSM. At two years, males and females attained similar VAS and AOFAS scores but males had significantly lower SF-36 general health score (males 68.7, females 79.3). 26.9% of males and 21.2% of females were not satisfied after surgery. Higher proportion of males did not have their expectations fulfilled (males 19.2%, females 5.8%) although this was not statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

Both genders attain similar outcome at two years. There is a trend towards lower expectation fulfilment in males after surgery.

A Systematic Review of the Outcome Evaluation Tools for the Foot and Ankle

Background. The goal of this systematic review is to determine the most commonly used outcome measurement tools used by foot and ankle specialists and determine their limitations, such as whether they are validated, have floor/ceiling effects, and so on. Methods. A literature search was conducted to identify primary publications between January 1, 2012 and July 1, 2017 that concern care of the foot and ankle and use any established grading criteria to evaluate patients. Results. In 669 publications, 76 scoring systems were used. The 10 most common were American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Score (AOFAS), visual analog scale (VAS), Short Form-36 (SF-36), Foot Function Index (FFI), Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS), Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM), SF-12, Short Musculoskeletal Function Assessment (SMFA), Ankle Osteoarthritis Scale (AOS), and Foot and Ankle Disability Index (FADI). AOFAS was used in 393 articles, VAS in 308, and SF-36 in 133 publications. AOFAS, VAS, and SF-36 were used to evaluate 23,352, 20,759, and 13,184 patients respectively. AOFAS and VAS were used simultaneously in 172 publications. Conclusion. While there are many different scoring systems available for foot and ankle specialists to use to assess or demonstrate the effectiveness of treatments, the AOFAS, while it is an unvalidated scoring system, is the most commonly used scoring system in this review. Clinical Relevance. This review presents data about commonly used patient reported outcomes systems in foot and ankle surgery. Levels of Evidence: Level III: Systematic review.

Primary outcome measures used in interventional trials for ankle fractures: a systematic review

Background

Ankle fractures cause considerable pain, loss of function and healthcare resource use. High quality randomised controlled trials are required to evaluate the optimal management protocols for ankle fracture. However, there is debate regarding the most appropriate outcome measure to use when assessing patients with ankle fractures. The aim of this systematic review is to identify and summarise primary outcome measure use in clinical trials of non-pharmacological interventions for adults with an ankle fracture.

Methods

We performed comprehensive searches of the Medline, Embase, CINAHL, AMED and Cochrane CENTRAL databases, as well as ISRCTN and ClinicalTrials.gov online clinical trial registries on 19/06/2019 with no date limits applied. The titles and abstracts were initially screened to identify randomised or quasi-randomised clinical trials of non-pharmacological interventions for ankle fracture in adults. Two authors independently screened the full text of any articles which could potentially be eligible. Descriptive statistics we used to summarise the outcome measures collected in these articles including an assessment of trends over time. Secondary analysis included a descriptive summary of the multi-item patient reported outcome measures used in this study type.

Results

The searches returned a total of 3380 records. Following application of the eligibility criteria, 121 records were eligible for inclusion in this review. The most frequently collected primary outcome measures in this type of publication was the Olerud Molander Ankle Score, followed by radiographic and range of movement assessments. There was a total of 28 different outcome measures collected and five different multi-item, patient reported outcome measures collected as the primary outcome measure. There was a sequential increase in the number of this type of study published per decade since the 1980’s.

Conclusion

This review demonstrates the wide range of measurement methods used to assess outcome in adults with an ankle fracture. Future research should focus on establishing the validity and reliability of the outcome measures used in this patient population. Formulation of a consensus based core outcome set for adults with an ankle fracture would be advantageous for ensuring homogeneity across studies in order to meta-analyse trial results.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12891-019-2770-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Efficacy and safety of electroacupuncture plus warm needling therapy for heel pain: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Heel pain is a common foot disorder that causes pain and functional limitations. The prevalence of disabling foot pain will increase as the population ages. Previous studies have reported the positive therapeutic effects of electroacupuncture, warm needling, or the combination of both for heel pain but with limitations in the study methodologies. The current study is a rigorously designed randomized controlled trial that aims to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of electroacupuncture plus warm needling therapy in patients with heel pain.

METHODS/DESIGN

The study protocol describes a prospective, open-label, parallel-group, randomized controlled trial to be conducted in Hong Kong. Eighty patients aged 50-80 years who have reported heel pain and first-step pain equal to or exceeding 50 mm on the 100-mm visual analog scale (VAS) will be recruited. They will be randomly assigned (1:1 ratio) to the electroacupuncture plus warm needling therapy (i.e., treatment) group or the waitlist (i.e., control) group. The treatment group will undergo six treatment sessions in 4 weeks. The control group will receive no treatment during the study period. The primary outcome measure is a mean change in the first-step pain VAS score from the baseline to week 4. Secondary outcome measures include a mean change in first-step pain VAS score from the baseline to week 2, a mean change in Foot Function Index (FFI) subscale scores and the total score from the baseline to week 2 and week 4, and patients' self-reported level of improvement at week 4. Additional week 8 follow-up assessments with first-step pain VAS and FFI measurements will be arranged for the treatment group. Any adverse events will be recorded throughout the study to evaluate safety. An intention-to-treat approach will be used to analyze the study results.

DISCUSSION

This study will provide evidence on the efficacy and safety of electroacupuncture plus warm needling therapy as an alternative treatment method for heel pain. The findings will determine whether the treatment protocol is efficacious in relieving pain and improving foot function among older adults with heel pain. The study will also provide information for subsequent large-scale randomized controlled trials in the future.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR1800014906 . Registered on 12 February 2018.