Anterior ankle arthrodesis

Study of Surgical Costs Associated With Tibiotalar Fusion

Background

There is growing focus on surgical costs related to common orthopaedic procedures. In this investigation, we studied surgical costs associated with tibiotalar arthrodesis.

Methods

Patients were retrospectively identified who had undergone primary fusion of the tibiotalar joint based on Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes from 2014 to 2020. Using the Value Driven Outcome (VDO) tool, we conducted an evaluation of both total direct costs and facility-related expenses. The VDO tool encompasses a comprehensive item-level database capable of capturing detailed cost information, which is subsequently presented as relative mean data. Adjustments were made to cost variables to reflect 2022 US dollars, and comparative multivariable analysis of costs in relation to treatment groups adjusting for demographic variables was performed using generalized linear models to yield cost ratios along with 95% CIs.

Results

Our cohort consisted of 262 patients who underwent primary ankle fusion procedures done by one of 4 fellowship-trained orthopaedic foot and ankle surgeons. There were no differences in demographic data or total operating room (OR) time based on surgical construct (screws-alone n = 228 vs anterior plate-screws n = 34). Total direct costs for anterior plate-screw constructs were 78% higher than screws alone (ratio in cost = 1.78, 95% CI 1.55-2.08, P < .001), adjusting for other variables. For all fusion constructs, every 1-hour increase in total OR time increased total direct costs by 29% (ratio in cost = 1.29, 95% CI 1.18-1.40, P < .001).

Conclusion

Enhancing cost-effectiveness of orthopaedic care remains an important objective. Our investigation found that anterior plate-screw constructs for tibiotalar arthrodesis have notably higher total costs compared with screw-only constructs. Many variables are considered when selecting surgical constructs for ankle arthrodesis. When clinically appropriate, screw-only ankle arthrodesis constructs could be considered if there is a need to reduce costs.

Level of Evidence

Level III, retrospective comparative study.

Incidence of Vitamin D Deficiency in Foot and Ankle Arthrodesis Nonunions

Background Vitamin D has been found to be crucial in musculoskeletal health. The role of vitamin D levels in orthopedic patients has become a growing area of interest given its negative impact on fracture healing which can contribute to the development of nonunion following surgery. We sought to investigate the incidence of hypovitaminosis D in a cohort of patients who experienced a nonunion following a foot and ankle arthrodesis procedure. Methodology Patients who underwent a major elective foot and ankle arthrodesis procedure and developed a nonunion were given the opportunity to obtain serum vitamin D levels. All vitamin D levels were reported from percutaneous venous blood samples and compared to our institution's range of accepted normal values (25-80 ng/mL). Results A total of 13 patients who developed a nonunion agreed to have a vitamin D level obtained, and 11 of 13 patients had a low vitamin D level (average = 14.6 ng/mL, range = 9-24 ng/mL). Five patients underwent revision arthrodesis after normalization of vitamin D levels, and four out of five patients went on to successful union. Conclusions Hypovitaminosis D may be a modifiable risk factor for nonunion following a major foot and ankle arthrodesis procedure. Orthopedic surgeons should consider vitamin D screening and supplementation in patients undergoing elective arthrodesis procedures.

Simultaneous hybrid closed-wedge supramalleolar osteotomy and ankle arthrodesis for post-traumatic varus ankle arthritis with periarticular deformity: A case report

The treatment of end-stage ankle arthritis associated with extra-articular tibial deformity, especially for ankles deformed by previous traumatic injuries and/or surgical treatment, is extremely challenging but rewarding. Only one previous report describes simultaneous tibial deformity correction and ankle arthrodesis for tibial malalignment and ipsilateral ankle arthritis. Here, we describe a unique case of post-traumatic ankle osteoarthritis concomitant with extra-articular varus deformity in a 77-year-old female. We have combined medial opening-wedge supramalleolar osteotomy (SMO) and lateral closed-wedge SMO in this case, which we termed 'hybrid' closed-wedge SMO, to overcome the limitations of traditional closed-wedge SMO. The patient was successfully treated with simultaneous hybrid closed-wedge SMO and ankle arthrodesis using a single lateral locking plate. To our knowledge, this is the first report describing the successful introduction of a hybrid closed-wedge osteotomy procedure in the distal tibia. Three years after surgery, the patient could walk without assistance and swim normally. The patient experienced no discomfort or pain in the operated ankle and was satisfied with the results. Radiographs confirmed that the pre-existing ankle joint line was parallel to the ground and almost invisible. The hind foot alignment was slightly valgus. No progression of the subtalar joint arthritis was detected. The simultaneous hybrid closed-wedge SMO and ankle arthrodesis was technically difficult but effective. This technique preserves leg length and subtalar joint motion. Additionally, a single lateral incision minimises the risk of impaired blood supply. The one-stage surgical treatment reduces the recovery time, duration of hospitalisation, and surgical costs. Rigid locking fixation with careful postoperative weight-bearing is required for uneventful bone healing.

A network meta-analysis of the efficacy of arthrodesis with various fixation methods in the treatment of advanced ankle osteoarthritis

This study aimed to compare the efficacy of arthrodesis with various fixation methods in the treatment of advanced ankle osteoarthritis. Thirty-two patients with osteoarthritis of the ankle (mean age 59.91±6.16 years) took part in the study. The patients were divided into 2 groups - Ilizarov apparatus (21 patients) and screw fixation (11 patients). Each group was also divided into subgroups based on etiology - posttraumatic and nontraumatic. The AOFAS and VAS scales were compared in the preoperative and postoperative periods. It was found that screw fixation was more effective in the treatment of late stages of osteoarthritis (OA) of the ankle during the postoperative period. Comparison of the AOFAS and VAS scales showed no significant differences between the groups in the preoperative period (p = 0.838; p = 0.937). After 6 months, the results were better in the screw fixation group (p = 0.042; p = 0.047). Complications were observed for a third of the patients (10 patients). 6 patients had pain in the operated limb (4 patients in the Ilizarov apparatus group). Three patients in the Ilizarov apparatus group developed a superficial infection, and one developed a deep infection. Different etiology did not affect the postoperative efficacy of arthrodesis. The choice of the type of should be related to a clear protocol for the presence of complications. When choosing the type of fixation for arthrodesis, a patient's condition as well as a surgeon's preferences should be taken into account.

Tibiotalar and Tibiotalocalcaneal Arthrodesis with Paragon28 SilverbackTM Plating System in Patients with Severe Ankle and Hindfoot Deformity

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

The treatment of end-stage ankle osteoarthritis (OA) and associated hindfoot deformities remains a major challenge for orthopedic surgeons. Numerous techniques and surgical approaches have been proposed for tibiotalar (TT) and tibiotalocalcaneal (TTC) arthrodesis, from arthroscopic to open, as well as numerous devices proposed for internal fixation (retrograde intramedullary nails, cannulated screws, and plating systems). The aim of this study was to retrospectively analyze the results, with at least 18 months of follow-up, with SilverbackTM TT/TTC Plating System Paragon28 in a group of 20 patients with severe OA and hindfoot deformities (mainly secondary post-traumatic OA).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The demographic characteristics and past medical history of the patients were collected and analyzed to identify the cause of the pathology. The degree of OA and deformity were quantified based on foot and ankle weight-bearing radiography and CT examination. Pre- and post-operative clinical and functional scores (ROM, VAS, AOFAS, FFI, and SF-36) and radiographic parameters (anterior distal tibial angle, tibiotalar angle, coronal tibiotalar angle, and hindfoot alignment angle) were evaluated.

RESULTS

All of the patients showed clinical and radiographic fusion at an average of 14 weeks (range 12-48), with improvement in pain and functional scores, without major surgical complications and/or infections.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the limitations of our study, the results with this new plating system showed good results in terms of bone consolidation, post-operative complications, and improvement of pain and quality of life in patients with severe OA and deformities of the ankle and hindfoot.

Subjective and Objective Outcomes of Ankle Joint Arthrodesis with Either Ilizarov or Internal Fixation

After arthroplasty, arthrodesis of the ankle joint is the most common method to treat advanced ankle osteoarthritis. The goal of the study was to assess the subjective and objective outcomes in 2 different types of fixation for ankle joint arthrodesis. We retrospectively assessed 47 patients who had undergone ankle joint arthrodesis with fixation either via an Ilizarov apparatus (group 1) (n = 21) or cannulated screws (group 2) (n = 26). The outcomes were measured by: (1) the quantity of analgesics administered, (2) the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot score, (3) general patient satisfaction, (4) the patients' decision to undergo the same procedure given another chance, and (5) the necessity of blood transfusion during hospitalization. Data was collected at the last postoperative follow-up visit. The AOFAS scores in group 1 and group 2 patients were 73.9   ± 13 and 72.7  ±  14.3, respectively. In group 1, 17 patients (81%) were very satisfied with the results, while in group 2, 19 patients (73%) were very satisfied with the results (p = .043). Two group 1 patients (10%) and four group 2 patients (15.3%) reported that they were satisfied with the outcomes (p = .035). Two patients (10%) from group 1 and three patients (11%) from group 2 were fairly satisfied. Seventeen patients (81%) after arthrodesis with Ilizarov fixation and 21 patients (81%) after arthrodesis with internal fixation would choose the same procedure given the opportunity to choose again. In group 1 there were no patients who required blood transfusion; in group 2 one patient (4%) required blood transfusion; the difference was statistically significant (p = .039). Nineteen group 1 patients (90%) were administered an analgesic preoperatively, while postoperatively only 6 (29%) required analgesics. In group 2, 24 patients (92%) were administered analgesics preoperatively, with 8 (31%) of them still requiring analgesics postoperatively. Ankle arthrodesis patients from both group 1 and group 2 achieved good subjective and objective results of treatment. We noted slightly better results in the Ilizarov apparatus group.

Management of Elderly Traumatic Ankle Arthritis with Ilizarov External Fixation

Objective

To evaluate the clinical curative effect of Ilizarov external fixation and ankle arthrodesis in the treatment of elderly traumatic ankle arthritis.

Methods

From June 2013 to August 2019, 72 patients with elderly traumatic ankle arthritis were treated with arthrodesis through Ilizarov external fixation technique in our institution. Conventional double‐feet standing X‐ray films were taken before and after operation. The tibiotalar angle on X‐ray image was measured to evaluate the degree of talipes varus and valgus. The Foot and Ankle pain score of American Orthopaedics Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) were compared by using paired t‐test to evaluate the functional recovery.

Results

All of the patients acquired effective postoperative 18–49 months follow‐up, with an average of 31.5 months. All patients were included in the analysis, among which 38 cases were males and 34 cases were females, with an average of 65.4 years (ranging from 60 to 74). All ankles achieved bony fusion; the clinical healing time was 12.7 weeks on average (11–18 weeks). The AOFAS score was 45.36 ± 6.43 preoperatively and 80.25 ± 9.16 at 12 months post‐operation, with a statistically significant difference (p < 0.0001). The VAS score was 8.56 ± 1.85 on average preoperatively and 2.72 ± 0.83 at 12 months post‐operation, with a statistically significant difference (p < 0.0001). The tibiotalar angle was 101.93° ± 4.12° preoperatively and 94.45° ± 2.37° at 12 months post‐operation, with a statistically significant difference (p < 0.0001). The results of the functional evaluation indicated that 44 patients (61.1%) had excellent results, 18 (25%) had good results, and 10 (13.9%) had fair results.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated that it is possible to obtain satisfactory outcome with Ilizarov external fixation and ankle arthrodesis in the treatment of elderly traumatic ankle arthritis.

Open Ankle Arthrodesis: a Systematic Review of Approaches and Fixation Methods

BACKGROUND

Open ankle arthrodesis (OAA) remains the most widely used operation in end-stage ankle osteoarthritis. However, there is a large variation in terms of approach and fixation methods. The aim of this systematic review was to assess the effect of different approaches and fixation methods on the union rate, complication rate and functional outcome in OAA.

METHODS

A search of the online databases PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane library was performed to identify patients who underwent OAA with screw- and/or plate-fixation.

RESULTS

We identified 38 studies, including 1250 patients (1290 ankles). The union rate was 98% (95% CI 0.95-0.99) for the anterior, 96% (95% CI 0.92-0.98) for the lateral and 96% (95% CI 0.68-1.00) for the combined medial/lateral approach. Screw-fixation achieved an overall union rate of 96% (95% CI 0.93-0.98) and plate-fixation 99% (95% CI 0.96-0.99). The overall complication rate was 14%, 16% and 31% for the anterior, lateral and combined medial/lateral approaches respectively. It stood at 18% for screw-fixation and 9% for plate-fixation. The infection rate was 4%, 6% and 8% for the anterior, lateral and combined approaches respectively. Screw-fixation had an infection rate of 6% and plate-fixation 3%. The postoperative AOFAS scores were 76.8, 76.5 and 67.6 for the anterior, lateral and combined approaches respectively and 74.9 for screw- compared to 78.5 for plate-fixation. These differences did not reach statistical significance.

CONCLUSION

This study, the first of its kind, found little difference in terms of results between approach and fixation method used in OAA.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IIa.

Clinical evaluation of arthrodesis with Ilizarov external fixator for the treatment of end-stage ankle osteoarthritis: A retrospective study

To analyze the efficacy of arthrodesis with Ilizarov external fixator for the treatment of end-stage ankle osteoarthritis.This retrospective study included 88 patients with end-stage (stage-3) ankle osteoarthritis according to Morrey-Wiedeman classification who underwent arthrodesis with Ilizarov external fixator from January 2016 to January 2019. There were 47 males and 41 females with a mean age of (57.21 ± 7.12) years old (range 49-76). Outcomes were measured by the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle society (AOFAS) Ankle Hindfoot Scale, Visual Analog Scale (VAS) pain scores, complications, subjective satisfaction, ankle function, correction of deformity, and complications.With an average follow-up of (13.50 ± 5.41) months (range 10-21), all 88 patients returned for final follow-up. All patients achieved bony healing with a success rate of 100%. Mean postoperative healing time (3.56 ± 1.04) months (range 3-6). Two patients developed sinus tract infection, delayed healing in 1 patient, and 2 patients had pain and swelling again in the ankle joint. No serious complications occurred in other patients. All the patients evaluated with the VAS scores and AOFAS scores at final follow-up showed significant improvement (P < .05). Through imaging analysis, medical tibial talar angle (MTTA) improved from (85.76 ± 6.01) degrees to (88.98 ± 1.35) degrees postoperative. Lateral talar station (LTS) decreased from (5.32 ± 3.81) mm to (2.71 ± 2.62) mm after operation (P < .05). The overall satisfaction of patients is 88.64%.In the treatment of end-stage ankle osteoarthritis, arthrodesis with Ilizarov external fixator can achieve good radiological and clinical outcomes with low prevalence of ankle joint malalignment and high fusion rates and satisfaction.

Potential problems in the use of patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) and reporting of PROM data in sports science

To use an inadequate patient reported outcome measure (PROM) or use a PROM in an inappropriate way potentially influences the quality of measurement. The objectives of this study were to define potential inadequate uses of PROMs in sports research studies and estimate how often they occur. A consensus group consisting of medical researchers, statisticians, and psychometricians identified and defined potentially irregular applications of PROMs. Occurrence of these in 349 consecutive articles in sports medicine in which PROMs were used as primary outcomes was reviewed. In all, 14 different potential problems were defined, and one or several occurred in 172 of the articles (49%). These were as follows: using a PROM that was developed for a different patient group (100 cases), using two or more PROMs with identical questions (94), aggregation of domain sum scores (82), combinations of subjective and objective measures (27), using a PROM to diagnose or evaluate the individual patient (7), using a PROM for a single limb (3), recall bias (3), exclusion of domains or items (3), construction of a PROM for a specific occasion (2), categorization of the scale (2), and mixing different versions of a PROM (1). Adaption of scale scores (e. g., to percentage) when results are reported (144) carries a risk of miscalculation and distorted impression of results. Data related to uncertainty about completing the PROM and the handling of missing data were not provided in the manuscripts. In conclusion, potential problems in the use and reporting of PROMs are common in sports research, and this can influence the validity of reported results.

A Comparison of Talar Surface Area Occupied by 2- Versus 3-Screw Fixation for Ankle Arthrodesis

Background. Ankle arthrodesis is a procedure utilized in the treatment of end-stage ankle arthritis. Internal fixation with screws is traditionally relied on to achieve union. Although the use of screw fixation alone has produced satisfactory outcomes, nonunion rates can range from 9% to as high as 35%. Adding an additional screw to the traditional 2-screw fixation construct may improve the likelihood of union by adding strength and stiffness; however, this addition may counteract the theoretical fusion enhancement benefit by reducing the joint surface area (SA) available for fusion. Methods. A cadaver study was performed to compare the amount of SA lost from a standard 2-screw (group 1) versus the 3-screw ankle fusion construct (group 2). A total of 10 fresh cadaveric below-knee specimens were used. Cannulated 7.0-mm partially threaded screws were placed across the ankle joint. Each talus was examined to precisely determine joint SA loss following each procedure. Results. The mean total talus SA in group 1 was 1833.71 mm² compared with 2125.76 mm² in group 2. The mean SA lost by the 2-screw construct was 5.91%, versus 9.51% in the 3-screw construct group. The talus SA loss percentage difference between groups reached statistical significance (P = .0220). Conclusion. The addition of a third 7.0-mm screw to a 2-screw ankle fusion construct raised the percentage of joint surface lost from 5.91% to 9.5%. Clinical Relevance. Surgeons may consider using extra-articular plates with 1 or 2 intra-articular screws instead of the traditional 3-screw construct if there is an elevated concern for nonunion. Levels of Evidence: Level IV: Cadaveric case series.

Ankle fusion after failed ankle replacement in rheumatic and non-rheumatic patients

BACKGROUND

With longer follow-up, survival rate of total ankle replacements (TAR) diminishes. It is therefore important to have a reliable fall-back option in case of failed TAR. Revision arthroplasty is often impossible because of loss of bonestock or infection. Conversion to ankle fusion is then indicated. We investigated the clinical, radiographic and patient reported results for fusion after failed TAR in a consecutive group of patients. We concentrated on the influence of inflammatory joint disease (IJD) on union rate.

METHODS

Patient files and radiographic images of 46 consecutive patients (47 ankles) were reviewed. There were 22 patients with IJD. Fixation methods included; anterior plating, blade plate fixation, intramedullary nailing, compression screws and external fixation. Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) and Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) were used to determine patient related outcomes.

RESULTS

Forty out of 47 ankles (85%) Fused. Union rate in the non-IJD group (96%) was significantly higher compared to the IJD-group (73%, p=0.04). Revisions and complications were more frequent in the IJD group, but numbers were too small to detect a significant difference. Mean PROM scores were: FAOS-symptoms; 68.5, FAOS-pain; 70.3, FAOS-QoL; 43.7, FAOS-ADL; 68.1 and FAAM-ADL; 52.1, with no significant difference between IJD and non-IJD patients.

CONCLUSIONS

IJD-patients have a higher nonunion rate after ankle fusion for failed TAR. However, patient reported outcome is not significantly different between the two groups.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV, retrospective cohort.

Clinical evaluation of ankle arthrodesis with Ilizarov fixation and internal fixation

Background

Ankle arthrodesis may have internal or external stabilization.

We assessed whether the type of stabilization after ankle arthrodesis will affect: (1) functional outcome in Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) scale, (2) pain level, (3) period of hospitalization, (4) rate of complications.

Methods

We retrospectively studied 47 individuals after ankle arthrodesis with Ilizarov fixation (group 1, n = 21) and internal stabilization (group 2, n = 26) at our institution in years 2007–2015. Clinical outcomes were measure by: (1) functional outcome in FAAM scale, (2) pain level, (3) period of hospitalization, (4) rate of complications.

Results

Total number of complications in Ilizarov group was 13, which corresponded to 0.62 complications per patient on average. In group 2 there were 15 complications, which corresponded to 0.58 complications per patient on average. The intergroup difference in rate of complications was not statistically significant (p = 0.066). In group 1 the mean VAS pain level before treatment was 4.69 and after treatment was 1.5 (p = 0.037). In group with internal stabilization the mean VAS pain level before treatment was 4.71 and after treatment was 2.9 (p = 0.044). In group 1 the mean period of hospitalization was 5.29 days, in group 2 was 5.71 days (p = 0.517). In group 1 the mean functional outcome in FAAM scale was 79.38, in group 2 was 70.11 (p = 0.458).

Conclusions

Ankle arthrodesis with Ilizarov stabilization is associated with lower prevalence of VAS pain level after surgery than after internal screws stabilization. Rate of complications, FAAM functional score and period of hospitalization were not statistically significant between group 1 and 2. Clinical outcome was satisfactory in group 1 and 2, but outcomes in Ilizarov group were slightly better than after internal stabilization.

Pedobarographic analysis of body weight distribution on the lower limbs and balance after ankle arthrodesis with Ilizarov fixation and internal fixation

BACKGROUND

A number of various techniques were proposed to stabilized ankle arthrodesis, among them external and internal fixation. Appropriate balance and adequate distribution of lower limb loads determine normal biomechanics of the locomotor system. We hypothesized that various techniques used to stabilize ankle arthrodesis may exert different effects on (1) balance and (2) distribution of lower limb loads.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis included 47 patients who underwent ankle arthrodesis with external stabilization with Ilizarov fixator (group 1, n = 21) or internal stabilization with screws (group 2, n = 26) between 2007 and 2015. Balance and distribution of lower limb loads were determined with a pedobarographic platform.

RESULTS

In group 1, average load of the operated and non-operated limb amounted to 48.8% and 51.2%, respectively, and in group subjected to internal stabilization to 48.4% and 51.6%, respectively. Neither the intragroup nor the intergroup differences in the distribution of lower limb loads were statistically significant. Mean length of the center of gravity (COG) path was 137.9 cm for group 1 and 134 cm for group 2, and mean COG area amounted to 7.41 cm2 and 6.16 cm2, respectively. The latter intergroup difference was statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

Balance after ankle arthrodesis with Ilizarov fixation is worse than after the same procedure with internal stabilization. Despite correction of ankle deformity, musculoskeletal biomechanics still remains impaired. While ankle fusion with either Ilizarov or internal fixation provide appropriate distribution of lower limb loads, none of these procedures normalize patients' balance.

Ankle Arthrodesis using Ilizarov Ring Fixator: A Primary or Salvage Procedure? An Analysis of Twenty Cases

Introduction: Ankle arthrodesis using the Ilizarov technique provides high union rate with the added benefits of early weight-bearing, and the unique advantage of its ability to promote regeneration of soft tissue around the bone, including skin, muscle and neuro-vascular structures, and its versatility to allow correction of the position of the foot by adjusting the frame post-operatively as needed. We describe our experience with this technique and the functional outcomes in our patients.

Materials and Methods: This retrospective study was conducted in 20 ankle fusion cases using the Ilizarov method between the years 2007 and 2017. We defined success in treatment by loss of preoperative symptoms and radiological union on plain radiographs of the ankle.

Results: Fusion was achieved in all patients (100%). Immediate post-operative ambulation was with full weight bearing (FWB) in 16 (83%) of the participants and non-weight bearing (NWB) in 3 patients (17%). Post-procedure 11 patients (67%) of the participants who were full weight bearing required some form of support for walking for 2-3 weeks. Post-operatively three patients had pin tract infection requiring intravenous antibiotics. Radiological union took range of 6-12 weeks, mean union time was 8 weeks. Only one patient required bone grafting due to bone loss. Average follow-up period was 10-45 months.

Conclusion: The Ilizarov technique has a high union rate and leads to general favourable clinical outcome and may be considered for any ankle arthrodesis but is especially useful in complex cases such as for revisions, soft-tissue compromise, infection and in patients with risk for non-union. Early weight bearing is an extra benefit.

Ilizarov external fixation versus plate internal fixation in the treatment of end-stage ankle arthritis: decision analysis of clinical parameters

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of Ilizarov external fixation (IEF) and plate internal fixation (PIF) in the treatment of end-stage ankle arthritis on pain relieving and function improvement. The study cohort consisted of 59 patients with end-stage ankle arthritis underwent ankle arthrodesis with IEF or PIF between June 2011 and June 2015. Standard radiographs and computed tomography (CT) scans were obtained before surgery and during the follow-up. Functional assessments were performed using Foot and Ankle pain score of American Orthopedics Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). The average AOFAS scores in both IEF group and PIF groups increased significantly after operation, from 45.5 ± 6.3 to 84.8 ± 4.9 and from 45.9 ± 6.6 to 86.6 ± 5.4, respectively. The average VAS scores in both groups decreased significantly after operation, from 8.4 ± 1.9 to 2.5 ± 0.6 and from 8.2 ± 1.5 to 2.3 ± 0.7, respectively. Nevertheless, there was no significant difference for preoperative or postoperative AOFAS and VAS scores between the two groups. The IEF would result in comparable postoperative functional recovery and pain relieving to PIF and may be an effective substitute to PIF in the treatment of end-stage ankle arthritis.

Anatomically Contoured Anterior Plating for Isolated Tibiotalar Arthrodesis: A Systematic Review

INTRODUCTION

We performed a systematic review of the published literature to characterize patient demographic, surgical techniques, and functional outcomes to elucidate the complication and revision rates following isolated tibiotalar arthrodesis with anatomically contoured anterior plating.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was performed. Inclusion criteria were peer-reviewed studies in English, after 1990, at least 10 patients, and reporting clinical outcomes following contoured anterior plating and with follow-up of at least 80% and 1 year. Primary outcomes were fusion rate, time to fusion, return to activities, satisfaction, and functional outcome scores. Complication rates, reoperation, and revision were also extracted.

RESULTS

Eight primary studies with 164 patients met the inclusion criteria. The average sample size was 21 ± 10.0 patients and average age was 49.2 years with 61.6% male. Posttraumatic arthritis (49.4%) was the most common operative indication, followed by primary osteoarthrosis (18.9%). The average follow-up was 21.1 months. At this time, 97.6% of patients went on to uneventful union at a weighted average time of 18.7 weeks postoperatively. AOFAS scores improved significantly ( P < .05). 25% complication rate was reported with wound complication (7.9%) and hardware irritation (6.7%) most common. Overall, 21.3% of patients underwent reoperation; 4 for revision arthrodesis following nonunion.

CONCLUSION

Isolated tibiotalar arthrodesis utilizing anatomically contoured anterior plating demonstrates excellent clinical and functional outcomes at short-term follow-up. Overall, 97.6% of patients went on to fusion and functional outcomes consistently improved following surgery. Furthermore, while one-quarter of patients experienced complications, wound complications were relatively uncommon and less than one-quarter of these required surgical intervention.

LEVELS OF EVIDENCE

Level IV: Systematic Review.

Role of Surgery in Management of Osteo-Articular Tuberculosis of the Foot and Ankle

Background:

Tuberculosis of the foot and ankle still remains to be a significant problem, especially in the developing countries, and with an increase in incidence in immunosuppressed patients. Treatment is mainly medical using multidrug chemotherapy; surgical interventions range from biopsy, synovectomy and debridement, to joint preserving procedures like distraction in early cases, and arthrodesis of hindfoot joints and the ankle in advanced disease with joint destruction.

Surgical Options: All procedures should be done after initiating appropriate medical management. The ankle is the commonest joint needing intervention, followed by the subtalar and talo-navicular joint. Forefoot TB limited to the bone rarely needs surgical intervention except when the infective focus is threatening to invade a joint. Articular disease can spread rapidly, so early diagnosis and treatment can influence the outcome. Surgical interventions may need to be modified in the presence of sinuses and active disease; fusions need compression, and implants have to be chosen wisely. External fixators are the commonest devices used for compression in active disease, but intramedullary nails better stabilize pantalar arthrodesis. Arthroscopy has become a valuable tool for visualizing the ankle and hindfoot joints, and is an excellent adjunct for arthrodesis by minimally invasive methods.

Conclusion:

Although Osteoarticular Tb involving the foot and ankle is largely managed with chemotherapy, specific indications for surgical intervention exist. Timely done procedures could limit joint destruction, or prevent spread to adjacent joints. Fusions are the commonest procedure for sequelae of disease or for correcting residual deformity.

Anterior Approach for Ankle Arthrodesis

End-stage ankle arthritis may be treated successfully with either an ankle arthrodesis or arthroplasty. Both surgical interventions have demonstrated success with regard to pain relief and function. Ankle arthrodesis is indicated for patients with recalcitrant ankle pain despite appropriate nonoperative intervention. Patients who have a history of posttraumatic arthritis from a high-energy injury, soft-tissue compromise, limited range of motion, or deformity may be superior candidates for arthrodesis. The surgical technique can be undertaken with either an open or an arthroscopic approach. An open anterior approach with an anatomic precontoured locking plate is ideal for patients with deformity and/or bone loss. Additionally, the use of a precontoured plate assists with achieving a neutral alignment in both the coronal and the sagittal plane, which is critical to the long-term success of the procedure. No hardware, however, substitutes for appropriate surgical technique, which is the focus of this video article. The procedure includes the following steps:An anterior extensile incision is made immediately lateral to the anterior tibial tendon, extending to the level of the talonavicular joint.Dissection is taken with care to avoid the superficial peroneal nerve in the distal aspect of the incision. The extensor retinaculum is incised either longitudinally or in a z-shaped fashion to facilitate closure.Deep dissection may be taken through the sheath of the anterior tibial tendon, which substantially decreases the risk of injury to the deep neurovascular bundle. Alternatively, dissection may be taken through the extensor hallucis longus (EHL) to avoid violation of the anterior tibial tendon sheath. The neurovascular bundle is directly posterior to the EHL at the level of the ankle joint.The ankle joint is exposed, with the removal of tibial and talar osteophytes.The joint surfaces are prepared.The precontoured ankle arthrodesis plate, which is used to improve alignment, is positioned and placed.Compression is achieved using the "Achilles tension band technique," which furthers compression through the ankle.An additional transarticular screw is placed. The expected outcome of the procedure, based on recent clinical outcomes, is osseous union, and the rate of union has been reported to range from 91% to 96%. Improvement in function and pain relief are associated with a successful arthrodesis. Despite a slow deterioration of functional outcomes and radiographic progression of arthritis, clinical improvement with a high rate of patient satisfaction has been noted at a mean of 9 years postoperatively.

Ankle Arthrodesis Using an Anterior Titanium Dual Locked Plating Construct

Ankle arthrodesis is currently the reference standard treatment for end-stage tibiotalar arthrosis. The fusion rates have varied in the published data from 59% to 100%. We reviewed 60 cases of consecutive anterior ankle arthrodesis using an anterior dual locked plating construct with respect to the fusion rate, time to fusion, pain relief, and complications. The patients were followed up for a mean of 1.1 years (range 16 weeks to 4 years). We found that our fusion rate was 97% for ankles not requiring structural allograft. The mean interval to fusion was 11.7 weeks, excluding those with a structural allograft. The mean visual analog scale pain scores decreased from 7 preoperatively to 2 at the final follow-up visit. Anterior ankle arthrodesis with dual locked plating provides excellent results with respect to the fusion rate with a low complication rate.

Arthroscopic arthrodesis for ankle arthritis without bone graft

Background

Ankle arthrodesis is considered by many to be the standard operative treatment for end-stage ankle arthritis. The purpose of this study was to perform a new technique for ankle joint surface and determine the outcome for the union rates of ankle arthroscopic arthrodesis.

Methods

A total of 68 patients with posttraumatic arthritis, primary osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis were treated by ankle arthroscopic arthrodesis between May 2007 and December 2012. Our surgical indication was deformity less than 15° measured by weight-bearing radiographs. Firstly, the remaining articular cartilage was removed with different curettes and shavers. Then, the new technique (microfracture) was done at tibiotalar surfaces. Finally, the ankle was fixed with two cannulated percutaneous screws. The wound healing, complications, postoperative radiographs, and American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score were evaluated.

Results

The average follow-up time was 32 months (range 25–58 months). There was no bone grafting, and a fusion rate of 100% was achieved. The average fusion time was 12.1 weeks. One patient developed superficial infection at 2 weeks postoperatively and was cured by nonsurgical treatment. No deep infections, deep venous thrombosis, or revision surgery were observed. Screws had been removed in four patients because of prominence. One patient had fusion in the subtalar joint because of arthritis at 5 years postoperatively. At the last follow-up, radiographic signs of developed or progressing arthritis were observed in nine patients at subtalar joint and in four patients at talonavicular joint. At 1-year follow-up, the mean AOFAS ankle/hindfoot score had increased to 84 from a mean preoperative value of 38 (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Arthroscopic arthrodesis provides surgeons with an alternative to traditional open techniques for the management of severe ankle arthritis. Our data show that preparation of the joint surface with microfracture is an effective technique to increase the union rate of arthroscopic ankle arthrodesis, while bone graft and other promoting substances are not necessary to be routinely used.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13018-016-0490-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

The Biology of Bone and Ligament Healing

This review describes the normal healing process for bone, ligaments, and tendons, including primary and secondary healing as well as bone-to-bone fusion. It depicts the important mediators and cell types involved in the inflammatory, reparative, and remodeling stages of each healing process. It also describes the main challenges for clinicians when trying to repair bone, ligaments, and tendons with a specific emphasis on Charcot neuropathy, fifth metatarsal fractures, arthrodesis, and tendon sheath and adhesions. Current treatment options and research areas are also reviewed.

Evaluation of Minimally Invasive, Ultrasound-guided Synovial Biopsy Techniques by the OMERACT Filter--Determining Validation Requirements

OBJECTIVE

Because limited data currently support the clinical utility of peripherally expressed biomarkers in guiding treatment decisions for patients with rheumatoid arthritis, the search has turned to the disease tissue. The strategic aim of the Outcome Measures in Rheumatology (OMERACT) synovitis working group over the years has been to develop novel diagnostic and prognostic synovial biomarkers. A critical step in this process is to refine and validate minimally invasive, technically simple, robust techniques to sample synovial tissue, for use both in clinical trials and routine clinical practice. The objective of the synovitis working group (SWG) at OMERACT 12 (2014) was to examine whether recently developed ultrasound (US)-guided synovial biopsy techniques could be validated according to the OMERACT filter for future clinical use recommendation.

METHODS

The SWG examined whether current data reporting US-guided synovial biopsy of both large and small joints addressed the OMERACT filters of truth, discrimination, and feasibility.

RESULTS

There are currently limited data examining the performance of US-guided synovial biopsy, mainly from observational studies. Thus, it remains critical to evaluate its performance, within the clinical trials context, against the current gold standard of arthroscopic biopsy, with particular reference to: (1) synovial tissue yield, (2) capacity to determine treatment response as measured by a validated synovial biomarker, and (3) tolerability of the procedure.

CONCLUSION

We summarize the discrete work packages agreed to as requirements to validate US-guided synovial biopsy and therefore lead to a global consensus on the use of synovial biopsy for research and clinical practice.

Anterior ankle arthrodesis with molded plate: technique and outcomes

BACKGROUND

There is still controversy regarding the best technique for ankle arthrodesis to acheive stable rigid fixation along with reconstructing a functional plantigrade foot. Moreover, existing techniques have complictions related to stability, soft tissue covering, fusion rate, and exposure.

METHODS

With the anterior approach exactly on the tibialis anterior sheath, the joint was exposed and previous hardware, if any, was removed and with the safe direct approach, the ankle, hindfoot, and indirectly the subtalar joints were accessed. Then fresh cancellous bone was obtained and complete denudation was preformed. Lastly, a narrow 4.5 millimeter plate was carefully placed on what was determined to be the best final position.In this prospective study, 12 patients with severe ankle pain and arthritis enrolled from February 2010 to January 2012. Eight of them had posttraumatic arthritis and deformity with hardware, two had rheumatoid arthritis, one had poliomyelitis with severe deformity of the foot and knee, and another had chronic ulcerative synovitis of the ankle joint. The patients were assessed clinically and radiographically for an average of two years (range: 13 months to 4 years) for functional recovery, range of motion, stability of the ankle, and imaging evidence of union.

RESULTS

Ankle deformities and pain in all 12 cases were corrected. With a short healing time and rapid recovery period, after six weeks all of the patients could walk independently. Also, scores of the Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire (MOXFQ) improved significantly from 69 preoperatively to 33 postoperatively).

CONCLUSIONS

Anterior ankle arthrodesis with molded plating can be an easy and safe way to manage deformities and it has excellent fusion rate and sufficient rigid fixation.