First Metatarsophalangeal Joint Pathology in the Athlete

Movement of the first metatarsophalangeal joint is an essential function of many sports. Because of the high demand on this relatively small joint, it is prone to the development of several notable pathologic derangements that can prevent full and pain-free athletic performance. A complete understanding of the joint anatomy and a careful physical examination and history collection is crucial to identifying an accurate diagnosis. Treatment should be pathology specific and should keep in mind the career expectations of the athlete.

Stress Injuries in the Athlete

Stress fractures are a common injury that present in athletes because of the high intensity and repetitive nature of many sports. These injuries require a high index of suspicion in the treating clinician to allow for timely management. Though most low-risk fractures heal well with conservative management, high-risk stress fractures as well as any fracture in the elite athlete may warrant surgical intervention as well as an augmented treatment and rehabilitation regimen.

Orthobiologic Use in Sports Injuries

Orthobiologics have gained much popularity in recent years but there has not been a large amount of clinical evidence to support their use. In the limited research that has been published, they have been shown to be effective and safe. They can assist in earlier return to activity with the avoidance of surgery. They can also augment current surgical practice to aid in healing and return to sport with few complications. With new medical innovation, there is unfortunately a higher cost for these products. The use of orthobiologics will only grow and so will the need for high-level clinical evidence.

A retrospective analysis of joint salvage procedures for grades III and IV hallux rigidus

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcome of the use of a decompression osteotomy for the treatment of end-stage hallux rigidus. We conducted a retrospective analysis of 28 feet (23 patients) with grades III and IV hallux rigidus that underwent a first metatarsal head decompression osteotomy with preservation of the articular surfaces of the first metatarsophalangeal joint. We also devised a 9-item questionnaire to explore the patients' perceptions of preoperative and postoperative pain, limitations of activity, influence on shoe wear, and the total range of motion of the first metatarsophalangeal joint. Furthermore, we used a modified version of the AOFAS forefoot scoring system to compare the patients' foot-related health status in relative to the operative repair of hallux rigidus. Comparisons of the pre- and postoperative results revealed statistically significant improvements in pain (P< .001), functional limitation (P< .001), shoe restrictions (P= .0072), total range of motion (P= .0449), and the AOFAS forefoot score (P< .001). Overall patient satisfaction with the results of the surgery was more than 85%, and the patients' chief complaint was alleviated in more than 75% of the participants. The results of this investigation demonstrated that a decompression first metatarsal osteotomy is an acceptable alternative to joint destructive procedures for the treatment of end-stage hallux rigidus.

LEVEL OF CLINICAL EVIDENCE

4.

The Flexor Hallucis Longus: Tenographic Technique and Correlation of Imaging Findings with Surgery in 39 Ankles

PURPOSE

To examine the use of tenography for evaluation of the flexor hallucis longus (FHL) sheath.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Institutional review board approval was waived, patient consent was obtained, and the study was HIPAA compliant. Retrospective review of 192 FHL tenograms and associated surgical records identified 39 ankles in 37 patients (17 male, 20 female; mean age +/- standard deviation, 38 years +/- 13.8; range, 14-68 years) in which both tenography and surgery had been performed. Two radiologists reviewed tenographic findings, including contrast agent extravasation, synovial irregularity, stenosis, fibrous bands, sheath outpouching, extent of opacification, and communications with adjacent structures. Alterations in pain after anesthesia of the tendon sheath were also recorded. Surgical reports were reviewed.

RESULTS

Thirty-four of 39 tenograms were diagnostic. Some extravasation occurred in nine (45%) of 20 injections with an initial injection method and in two (11%) of 19 with a new injection technique. Synovial irregularity was present in all 34 studies (15 mild, 16 moderate, three severe). Stenoses were identified in 23 (68%) of 34 ankles, fibrous bands were seen in 16 (47%) of 34 ankles, and outpouching of the sheath above a stenosis was present in 13 (38%) of 34 ankles. Communication of the FHL sheath with the ankle, flexor digitorum longus, or subtalar joint occurred in half the cases. Most patients with pain reported relief; relief was complete (100% reduction from preprocedural pain) in eight of 27, moderate (50%-90% reduction) in nine of 27, and mild (<50% reduction) in eight of 27 patients.

CONCLUSION

Tenography of the FHL sheath produced diagnostic images in almost all patients and effectively demonstrated abnormalities of the tendon sheath. Pain relief with anesthetic injection helped confirm the FHL sheath as the pain generator.

Flexor hallucis longus dysfunction: an overview

Whereas acute and chronic injuries of the tibialis posterior, peroneal and Achilles tendon are frequently encountered, disorders of the flexor hallucis longus tendon are often overlooked, which may contribute to chronic pain and disability. Patients with stenosing tenosynovitis of the flexor hallucis longus tendon frequently present with overlapping signs and symptoms of flexor hallucis longus tendinitis, plantar fasciitis and tarsal tunnel syndrome, which the authors collectively refer to as "flexor hallucis longus dysfunction." A keen awareness of the presenting signs and symptoms and use of ancillary MR imaging and FHL tenography will assist the practitioner in recognizing this commonly misdiagnosed condition.

Subtalar joint arthroscopy for sinus tarsi syndrome: a review of 29 cases

Twenty-nine consecutive patients who underwent diagnostic or therapeutic subtalar joint arthroscopy for sinus tarsi syndrome were retrospectively reviewed. The mean length of follow-up was 18 months. There was a history of trauma in 86% of the patients, with an inversion sprain being the most common predisposing injury (63%). All patients had a primary preoperative diagnosis of sinus tarsi syndrome. Magnetic resonance imaging was useful in identifying subtalar joint chronic synovitis and/or fibrosis in all 26 patients who were imaged. Subtalar joint synovectomy was the most common procedure performed. Twelve patients had 15 additional operative procedures. One patient required an arthrotomy secondary to arthrofibrosis. There were no postoperative complications. The mean return to full activity was 4 months. The mean postoperative AOFAS Ankle-Hindfoot Scale score was 85 points. Subtalar joint arthroscopy has proven to be a relatively safe and effective diagnostic and therapeutic technique in the management of sinus tarsi syndrome.

In situ tibialis posterior to flexor digitorum longus tendon transfer for tibialis posterior tendon dysfunction: a simplified surgical approach with outcome of 11 patients

Outcomes for 11 patients who underwent an in situ tibialis posterior tendon to flexor digitorum longus tendon side-to-side anastamosis as the sole procedure for stage 2 tibialis posterior tendon dysfunction were reviewed. The average follow-up was 34.4 months. Using the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society hindfoot rating scale, a mean improvement of 39.3 points was achieved, with preoperative scores of 38.8 improving to 78.1 postoperatively. Good to excellent results were achieved in nine patients. The in situ side-to-side anastamosis is technically easier to perform, has less tissue trauma, and compares favorably with other soft-tissue procedures and reconstructions for stage 2 tibialis posterior tendon dysfunction. Performing this transfer alone, while leaving the flexor digitorum longus tendon intact, theoretically provides a stronger transfer as the length-tension relationship of the flexor digitorum longus tendon is maintained near its physiologic level. The procedure can consistently restore inversion ability to the rearfoot and stop the progression of tibialis posterior tendon dysfunction.

Arthroscopic monopolar radiofrequency thermal stabilization for chronic lateral ankle instability: a preliminary report on 10 cases

This study represents a preliminary review of 10 patients having undergone arthroscopic monopolar thermal stabilization for ankle instability from October 1996 to June 1998. All patients in this study expressed mild to moderate chronic ankle instability complaints and were dissatisfied with their attempts at conservative care. Subjective clinical results were evaluated in all patients having undergone this procedure utilizing a modified version of the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle-Hindfoot Scale. In addition, eight of these patients underwent pre- and postoperative stress radiographs. The average age of the patient population in this study was 34.5 +/- 9.26 years. The preoperative AOFAS scores averaged 58.3 +/- 8.96 and the postoperative were 88.1 +/- 11.09 points. Patients returned to full activities on the average of 3 months. Postoperative ankle varus stress test reduced on the average of 2.8 degrees +/- 2.77 degrees, while the anterior drawer measurements reduced 4.8 +/- 1.83 mm. The reduction in anterior drawer test amounted to an approximate 60% decrease in talar excursion postoperatively. All patients who underwent this procedure achieved ankle stability and commented that they would undergo the procedure again.

Application of distal metaphyseal osteotomy for treatment of high intermetatarsal angle bunion deformities

This is a retrospective study of 10 patients (13 feet) with moderate to severe hallux valgus who underwent a chevron or modified chevron osteotomy with multiple adjunctive soft-tissue releases for surgical treatment. Radiographic and subjective results were evaluated with an average follow-up of 24 months (range, 10-41). Preoperative criteria included an intermetatarsal (IM) angle of greater than 16 degrees (average of 18.4 degrees) and painful hallux valgus deformity. Average preop hallux abductus was 35.4 degrees (range, 25 degrees-48 degrees). The average reduction in the actual IM angle was (-) 5.2 degrees with a relative IM correction of (-) 11.6 degrees. Average postoperative hallux abductus angle was 7.0 degrees (range, 0 degree-22 degrees). Subjectively, all patients were satisfied with their results and stated they would have the procedure again. No complications were noted in this patient population, including, infection, avascular necrosis, hallux varus, and recurrence of deformity. The chevron osteotomy was found to be successful in this population with high intermetatarsal angles when appropriate consideration was given to correction of soft-tissue-deforming forces and contractures.

Flexor hallucis longus dysfunction

Nineteen consecutive cases of flexor hallucis longus stenosing tenosynovitis that underwent operative tenolysis from September 1994 to December 1996 were retrospectively reviewed. This is classically a disorder of ballet dancers, and to a much lesser extent, running athletes. The patients were primarily nonathletic, male, and middle-aged. The mean symptom duration was 20 months, multiple physicians had been encountered, and misdiagnosis was common. Patients presented with overlapping signs and symptoms of flexor hallucis longus tendinitis, plantar fasciitis, and tarsal tunnel syndrome. A cross-reference of patients with posteromedial ankle pain, medial arch pain, and/or a positive Tinel's sign revealed that 14 (74%) and 6 (32%) feet had two of three, or all three signs, respectively. Magnetic resonance imaging and tenography proved valuable in establishing the correct primary diagnosis. Nonoperative protocols were unsuccessful. Flexor hallucis longus tenolysis was successful in each case with a mean return to regular activity at 9 weeks. Flexor hallucis longus stenosing tenosynovitis may be more prevalent than reported and should be a diagnosis of inclusion among all patient populations who present with posterior ankle, medial arch, and/or tarsal tunnel symptoms.

PMMA bead versus parenteral treatment of Staphylococcus aureus osteomyelitis

A. rabbit model of Staphylococcus aureus osteomyelitis was used to compare 3 weeks of clindamycin-impregnated polymethylmethacralate (PMMA) bead treatment with 3 weeks of gentamicin-impregnated polymethylmethacralate bead treatment, 4 weeks of parenteral clindamycin treatment, and surgical debridement without any antibiotic treatment. The animals were weighed throughout the course of the experiment and cortical bone and marrow flush specimens were obtained for bacterial culture at the end of therapy. The cortical specimens were bacteria free in 100% (6/6) of the animals receiving parenteral clindamycin, 83% (5/6) of the animals in the clindamycin PMMA group and, none of the animals in the gentamicin PMMA group. The marrow flush specimens were bacteria free in 83% (5/6) of the animals in the parenteral clindamycin group, 67% (4/6) of the animals in the clindamycin PMMA group, and 40% (2/5) of the animals in the gentamicin PMMA group. While these findings are preliminary and further studies with larger numbers of animals are needed, the authors suggest that when PMMA bead therapy is being contemplated, serious consideration should be given to replacing gentamicin with clindamycin in treatment of gram-positive osteomyelitis. Furthermore, incorporation of clindamycin with gentamicin (or tobramycin) should be considered when treating mixed gram-positive and gram-negative osteomyelitis.

Iliac crest donor site morbidity in foot and ankle surgery

The authors retrospectively reviewed anterior iliac crest donor site morbidity in 40 consecutive patients (42 donor sites) who underwent graft harvesting for reconstructive foot or ankle surgery. The mean time to follow-up was 22 months (range, 1 to 48 months). The overall complication rate was 2.4%, with one early minor complication and no major complications. The authors conclude that anterior iliac crest-harvesting techniques that rely on minimal soft tissue dissection and the removal of small-to-moderate volumes of bone have reduced frequencies of minor and major donor site complications.

Sesamoid complex disorders

Disorders of the hallux sesamoids and associated soft-tissue structures are commonly seen. With a differential diagnosis consisting of no fewer than 30 conditions, establishing an accurate diagnosis can be challenging but is important to appropriate treatment implementation. An understanding of first metatarsophalangeal joint anatomy, function, and current diagnostic technology aids the practitioner in the diagnosis and successful treatment of these often overlooked and anecdotally managed disorders.

CCPM and podiatric medical education. Preparing for the 21st century

There are many changes on the horizon that will affect how we teach the future practitioners of podiatric medicine. The author describes the processes undertaken to date at the California College of Podiatric Medicine (CCPM), as well as the vision of tomorrow, for podiatric medical education. The educational system that will result from these changes will be more efficient; it will better meet the needs of students; and, it will broaden their base of knowledge, all to improve care given to the patient.

Magnetic resonance imaging of traumatized ligaments of the ankle

The clinical examination of acute soft tissue injuries of the ankle does not necessarily help to delineate the extent of injury. Ankle stress radiographs and arthrography have been applied for a more accurate assessment of the actual degree of ligamentous damage. However, these studies do not define the level of the ligament tear of the relationship of torn ligament ends to one another. This information would seem to be valuable in deciding whether a conservative or surgical approach would be advisable. The following study evaluated the possible role of magnetic resonance imaging in assessment of these injuries. The ability to assess ankle ligaments was first undertaken. Once this was successfully performed, magnetic resonance imaging was used to assess the degree of ligament damage in 15 patients. Magnetic resonance imaging proved to be comparable to arthrography. It also provided additional valuable information.

Antibiotic-impregnated bone cement: an in vitro comparative analysis

This manuscript examines the in vitro antibacterial activity of eight different antibiotics when mixed with polymethyl methacrylate. Two different parameters are presented as being important considerations in the choice of antibiotic. One parameter is the bacterial inhibition created by the direct contact of the antibiotic-impregnated bone cement. The second parameter is the bacterial inhibition produced by diffusion of antibiotic from the bone cement into the surrounding liquid medium. These two experimental models were created to establish the contiguous and remote antimicrobial effects of antibiotic-impregnated bone cement.

Radiographic evaluation of inflammatory arthritis of the foot

This article provides a brief overview of the radiographic appearance of the more commonly encountered arthridities in the foot. Also reviewed is a stepwise approach to interpreting radiographs in a patient suspected of having a synovial-based disease.

Implant arthroplasty in the rheumatoid arthritic patient

Implant arthroplasty was introduced with the intention that it would relieve pain, provide stability, provide motion, and allow the part to be mobilized. It is a relatively recent phenomenon and long-term results remain difficult to predict.

Perioperative considerations in the arthritic patient

It should become clear that the surgeon's responsibility to the patient does not end with knowledge of the surgical procedure. The arthritis patient poses a vexing problem in a variety of ways. The surgeon not only has to understand the particulars of surgery, but also should have a working knowledge of the disease process so that the chance for complications is lessened. Because discussion of each articular disorder is beyond the scope of this article, readers should continually try to review these areas, especially in light of the everchanging attitudes in rheumatology. The arthritis patient is prone to many potential problems, some avoidable and others inevitable. It is obviously the avoidable ones that we most concern ourselves with. Because the patient with arthritis very commonly undergoes multiple reconstructive surgeries, the risks of complications are naturally greatly increased. To any patient with chronic disease, any misfortunes from surgery are all the more discouraging. The team approach will go a long way in providing the most appropriate care. This has been aptly stated as: "The combination of a radical rheumatologist, a conservative surgeon, a cooperative physiatrist and physical therapist, and an informed motivated patient should lead to the best combination of results obtainable in the present state of the art, and reduce the incidence of complications.

Complications of subtalar arthroereisis

Arthroereisis procedures involving the subtalar joint in the pediatric flatfoot have had great success in limiting/preventing abnormal or destructive pronating forces transmitted into the foot. This report presents actual and potential complications of these procedures.

Opening base wedge osteotomy of the first metatarsal utilizing rigid external fixation

The authors describe their operative approach to metatarsus primus adductus deformity when present in conjunction with a congenitally short first metatarsal. Hallux abducto valgus correction in this clinical setting has traditionally advocated use of a crescentic or opening wedge osteotomy in order to prevent further shortening of the first metatarsal. Fixation of opening base wedge osteotomies has been fraught with problems in the past, with possibilities for displacement or eventual loss of initial correction. The authors have found the mini-Hoffmann external fixation device useful for this purpose.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in podiatric medicine and surgery

This paper presents a review of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in podiatric medicine and surgery. Although these agents possess a high degree of safety and efficacy, proper patient selection, monitoring, and early detection of side effects are emphasized. A discussion of prostaglandin biochemistry and physiology is included.

A statistical analysis on the reliability of the proximal articular set angle

The authors investigated the statistical relationship and significance between the transverse and sagittal plane proximal articular set angles both radiographically and intraoperatively. The analysis revealed a highly significant difference between the means of the respective measurements. Although the radiographic and intraoperative findings were found to be related for the transverse plane proximal articular set angle, the transverse plane PASA was approximately 7 degrees greater when measured intraoperatively. The concept of a sagittal plane PASA was also introduced. The significance of accurate measurements in the surgical correction of hallux valgus was also examined.

Fracture nonunion

The management of nonunion represents a complex clinical situation requiring an understanding of the pathophysiology. Before initiating treatment, the nonunion must be assessed radiographically. Further evaluation by radionuclide imaging and CT may be applicable. Only then can proper treatment, whether by immobilization, internal fixation with or without incorporation of bone grafts, or electrostimulation, be instituted.

Podiatric metallurgy and the effects of implanted metals on living tissues

The selection of metals and their alloys for implants and fixation devices represents a composite of desirable properties. The search for appropriate implantable materials began following the acceptance of internal fixation. Advances in the control of septic complications, together with recent metallurgical developments, have resulted in the safe application of metallic implants.

Adolescent hallux valgus: its etiology and surgical management

Although most patients who seek relief are adults, the problem of hallux valgus frequently begins at an earlier age. In the juvenile patient, except for congenital anomalies or inflammatory juvenile rheumatic disease, hallux abducto valgus appears to be related to the biochemical malfunction. It requires not only surgical management, but also the use of orthotics or surgical stabilization.

Rheumatoid nodulosis in the foot: a variant of rheumatoid disease

Rheumatoid nodulosis is a relatively benign variant of rheumatoid disease. This entity has been previously ignored in the medical literature. Confusion with other diseases that can produce nodules is not infrequent. A discussion of this entity, as well as a case report, will be presented.

Surgical management of forefoot supinatus in flexible flatfoot deformity

In the past, many surgical procedures have been advocated for correction of painful flexible flatfoot deformity. More recent opinions advocate the concept that no one procedure is appropriate to all flatfoot deformities. Individual assessment is now necessary to determine the predominant component deformities. One such component deformity frequently encountered is forefoot supinatus. The authors review the more commonly performed procedures for this problem, as well as their preferred approach of the modified Hoke arthrodesis or Cotton osteotomy. The choice of procedure is dictated by whether the first metatarsal or longitudinal axis subluxation predominates.

Ankle tenography: a key to unexplained symptomatology. Part I: Normal tenographic anatomy

Fifty cadaver ankles were examined with ankle tenography. The normal tenographic appearance of the peroneus longus and brevis, posterior tibial, flexor digitorum longus, flexor hallucis longus, anterior tibialis, extensor hallucis longus, and extensor digitorum longus tendons and sheaths are described and illustrated for clinical reference. The baseline measurements and demonstration of the normal radiographic appearance of these tendons should assist in the evaluation of hindfoot foot disability and ankle pain.

Atypical fibrous histiocytoma of the great toe

Fibrous histiocytomas are benign but aggressive tumors of histiocytic origin. The authors describe and discuss an example of an atypical fibrous histiocytoma that involved the soft tissue of the great toe. These tumors sometimes recur after local excision.

Sickle cell anemia in podiatric surgery

A review of sickle cell anemia is presented, with attention to clinical manifestations, surgery, and lower extremity complications.

The use of radionuclide bone and joint imaging in arthritic and related diseases

Patients with arthritic complaints are seen frequently by podiatrists, who must establish a differential diagnosis. When combined with the patient's history, physical examination, joint aspiration, laboratory data, and radiographs, bone and joint scans provide a sensitive and objective means of arriving at an accurate diagnosis.

Elevated temperature in the postoperative patient

In this paper, the authors discuss postoperative fever--the patterns, pathophysiology, thermoregulation, intraoperative and postoperative changes, and etiology of postoperative fevers. They stress the need for a thorough history and physical examination and the importance of determining the cause.