Ankle Cartilage: Chondral and Osteochondral Lesions: A Further Dive into the Incidence, Terminology, and the Cartilage Cascade

The current concepts thoroughly highlight the ankle cartilage cascade focusing on the different stages and the different etiologic factors that can introduce a patient into the cascade. Moreover, the authors will provide the reader with a comprehensive overview of the types of lesions that may present as symptomatic, asymptomatic, and dangerous for progression into osteoarthritis, and the authors supply the reader with considerations and directions for future clinical implications and scientific endeavors.

Ten-Year Survival Rate of 82% in 262 Cases of Arthroscopic Bone Marrow Stimulation for Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus

BACKGROUND

The long-term sustainability of arthroscopic bone marrow stimulation (BMS) for osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLT) remains a matter of debate. The primary aim of the present study was to assess the 10-year survival free from revision in ankles that had undergone arthroscopic BMS for an OLT. The secondary aim was to evaluate the influence of baseline patient and lesion characteristics on survival.

METHODS

Patients who underwent arthroscopic BMS for a symptomatic OLT and had a minimum follow-up of 10 years were included to assess procedure survival. The primary outcome, the 10-year cumulative survival rate, was analyzed by the Kaplan-Meier survival method. Secondary outcomes were the median time to revision and the effects of baseline factors (lesion size, primary or non-primary lesion type, preoperative cysts, and obesity as defined by a body mass index [BMI] of ≥30 kg/m2) on survival, analyzed with a Cox regression model and reported using hazard ratios (HRs).

RESULTS

The 262 included patients had a mean follow-up of 15.3 ± 4.8 years. The 10-year cumulative survival rate of the arthroscopic BMS procedures was 82% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 77% to 87%). At 15 years of follow-up, the cumulative survival rate was 82% (95% CI: 76% to 86%). The median time to revision was 2.4 years (interquartile range: 1.3 to 5.1 years). Of the baseline factors, obesity (HR: 3.0 [95% CI: 1.44 to 6.43], p < 0.01) was associated with decreased survival. Lesion size (HR: 0.9 [95% CI: 0.5 to 1.8], p = 0.8), non-primary lesion type (HR: 1.8 [95% CI: 0.9 to 3.4], p = 0.1), and the presence of preoperative cysts (HR: 1.0 [95% CI: 0.6 to 1.9], p = 0.9) were not significantly associated with survival.

CONCLUSIONS

At a minimum follow-up of 10 years, the survival rate of arthroscopic BMS for OLT was 82%. At 15 and 20 years of follow-up, survival appeared to remain stable. Obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2) was associated with a higher likelihood of revision surgery. This risk factor should be incorporated into the treatment algorithm for OLT when counseling patients regarding surgery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Open lift-drill-fill-fix for medial osteochondral lesions of the talus: surgical technique

OBJECTIVE

Osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLT) with a fragment on the talar dome that fail conservative treatment and need surgical treatment can benefit from in situ fixation of the OLT. Advantages of fixation include the preservation of native cartilage, a high quality subchondral bone repair, and the restoration of the joint congruency by immediate fragment stabilization. To improve the chance of successful stabilization, adequate lesion exposure is critical, especially in difficult to reach lesions located on the posteromedial talar dome. In this study we describe the open Lift, Drill, Fill, Fix (LDFF) technique for medial osteochondral lesions of the talus with an osteochondral fragment. As such, the lesion can be seen as an intra-articular non-union that requires debridement, bone-grafting, stabilization, and compression. The LDFF procedure combines these needs with access through a medial distal tibial osteotomy.

INDICATIONS

Symptomatic osteochondral lesion of the talus with a fragment (≥ 10 mm diameter and ≥ 3 mm thick as per computed tomography [CT] scan) situated on the medial talar dome which failed 3-6 months conservative treatment.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Systemic disease, including active bacterial arthritis, hemophilic or other diffuse arthropathies, rheumatoid arthritis of the ankle joint, and malignancies. Neuropathic disease. End-stage ankle osteoarthritis or Kellgren and Lawrence score 3 or 4 [3]. Ipsilateral medial malleolus fracture less than 6 months prior. Relative contra-indication: posttraumatic stiffness with range of motion (ROM) < 5°. Children with open physis: do not perform an osteotomy as stabilization of the osteotomy may lead to early closure of the physis, potentially resulting in symptomatic varus angulation of the distal tibia. In these cases only arthrotomy can be considered.

SURGICAL TECHNIQUE

The OLT is approached through a medial distal tibial osteotomy, for which the screws are predrilled and the osteotomy is made with an oscillating saw and finished with a chisel in order to avoid thermal damage. Hereafter, the joint is inspected and the osteochondral fragment is identified. The cartilage is partially incised at the borders and the fragment is then lifted as a hood of a motor vehicle (lift). The subchondral bone is debrided and thereafter drilled to allow thorough bone marrow stimulation (drill) and filled with autologous cancellous bone graft from either the iliac crest or the distal tibia (fill). The fragment is then fixated (fix) in anatomical position, preferably with two screws to allow additional rotational stability. Finally, the osteotomy is reduced and fixated with two screws.

POSTOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT

Casting includes 5 weeks of short leg cast non-weightbearing and 5 weeks of short leg cast with weightbearing as tolerated. At 10-week follow-up, a CT scan is made to confirm fragment and osteotomy healing, and patients start personalized rehabilitation under the guidance of a physical therapist.

Bone Marrow Stimulation for Osteochondral Lesions of the Tibial Plafond Yields Good Patient-Reported Outcomes in Daily Living but Moderate Outcomes in Sports Activities at 2- to 22-Years Follow-Up

PURPOSE

To assess the patient-reported outcomes, as well as the revision and complication rates, of patients who underwent arthroscopic bone marrow stimulation (BMS) for an osteochondral lesion of the tibial plafond (OLTP).

METHODS

Patients with an OLTP treated with arthroscopic BMS at a minimum follow-up of 2-years were cross-sectionally included from a historical database. The primary outcome was the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) during walking. Secondary outcomes included the NRS in rest and during running, and the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score. Additionally, the association of baseline patient and lesion demographics with follow-up patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) was assessed with the Spearman rank correlation test. A subanalysis was performed for PROMs in patients with or without a coexisting talar (i.e., bipolar) lesion. Finally, the revision surgery (i.e., repeat surgery for the OLTP) and complication rates were assessed.

RESULTS

Fifty-one patients were included at a mean 8.8 (standard deviation [SD] = 5.7, range, 2-22) years follow-up. Seventy-three percent of patients had a solitary OLTP, and 27% had a coexisting talar (bipolar) lesion. Males had a significantly higher rate of bipolar lesions compared to females (P ≤ .01), and patients with a bipolar lesion had a significantly larger OLTP lesion diameter (P = .02) and volume (P = .04). At final follow-up, the mean NRS during walking was 1.9 (SD = 2.3) out of 10. Anterior-posterior OLTP size (r = 0.36; P ≤ .01) was significantly associated with a higher NRS pain score during walking, although the presence of bipolar lesions did not result in inferior clinical outcomes. At final follow-up, 6% of patients underwent revision surgery. Minor complications were observed in 12% of patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Arthroscopic BMS for OLTP results in favorable patient-reported outcomes at mid- to long-term follow-up, although moderate outcomes were observed in sports activities. Lesion size was associated with increased pain scores, although bipolar lesions did not result in inferior patient-reported outcomes. Six percent of patients required revision surgery, and 12% of patients had minor complications after surgery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, retrospective cohort study.

Reporting of Morphology, Location, and Size in the Treatment of Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus in 11,785 Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVE

Uniformity of reporting is a requisite to be able to compare results of clinical studies on the treatment of osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLT). The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency and quality of reporting of size, morphology, and location of OLTs.

DESIGN

A literature search was performed from 1996 to 2023 to identify clinical studies on surgical treatment of OLTs. Screening was performed by 2 reviewers, who subsequently graded the quality using the methodological index for non-randomized studies (MINORS). The primary outcome was the frequency and qualitative assessment of reporting of size, morphology, and location.

RESULTS

Of 3,074 articles, 262 articles were included. This comprised a total of 11,785 patients. Size was reported in 248 (95%) of the articles and was described with a measure for surface area in 83%, however, in 56%, definition of measurement is unknown. Intraclass coefficient (ICC) value for the reliability of size measurement was 0.94 for computed tomography (CT) scan and 0.87 for MRI scan. Morphology was reported in 172 (66%) of the articles and using a classification system in 23% of the studies. Location was reported in 220 (84%) of the studies.

CONCLUSION

No consensus was found on the reporting of morphology, with non-validated classification systems and different terminologies used. For location, reporting in 9 zones is underreported. Size was well reported and measurements are more reliable for CT compared with MRI. As these prognostic factors guide clinical decision-making, we advocate the development of a standardized and validated OLT classification to reach uniform reporting in literature.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, systematic review.

Second-Look Arthroscopy Shows Inferior Cartilage after Bone Marrow Stimulation Compared with Other Operative Techniques for Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVE

To compare cartilage quality after different surgical interventions for osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLT), evaluated by second-look arthroscopy. Secondary aims were to report concomitant diagnoses, and to correlate cartilage quality with clinical and radiological outcomes. This review hypothesizes that the cartilage repair after bone marrow stimulation (BMS) is inferior to the other available treatment options.

METHODS

PROSPERO ID: CRD42022311489. Studies were retrieved through PubMed, EMBASE (Ovid), and Cochrane Library. Studies were included if they reported cartilage quality after second-look investigation after surgical treatment of OLT. The primary outcome measure was the cartilage quality success and failure rates (%) per surgical intervention group. Correlations between the cartilage quality and clinical or radiological outcomes were calculated.

RESULTS

Twenty-nine studies were included, comprising 586 ankles that had undergone second-look arthroscopy on average 16 months after initial surgery. The success rate for BMS was 57% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 48%-65%), for fixation (FIX) 86% (95% CI = 70%-94%), for osteo(chondral) transplantation (OCT) 91% (95% CI = 80%-96%), for cartilage implementation techniques (CITs) 80% (95% CI = 69%-88%), and for retrograde drilling 100% (95% CI = 66%-100%). The success rate of BMS was significantly lower than FIX, OCT, and CIT (P < 0.01). There were no significant differences between other treatment groups. A moderate positive significant correlation between the Magnetic Resonance Observation of Cartilage Repair Tissue (MOCART) score and the International Cartilage Repair Society score (ICRS) was found (ρ = 0.51, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Successful restoration of cartilage quality was found in the majority of surgically treated OLTs. However, BMS yields inferior cartilage quality compared with FIX, OCT, and CIT. Study Design. Systematic review and meta-analysis. Level of evidence. Level IV, systematic review and meta-analysis.

Large variation in postoperative rehabilitation protocols following operative treatment of osteochondral lesions of the talus: A systematic review and meta-analysis on >200 studies

PURPOSE

A treatment-specific rehabilitation protocol and well-defined return-to-play criteria guide clinical decision-making on return to normal function, activity, sports and performance after surgical treatment for osteochondral lesion of the talus (OLT). The optimal rehabilitation protocols in the current literature remain unclear. The purpose of this study was to explore the existing literature on rehabilitation protocols from the early postoperative phase to return to sport onwards after different types of surgical treatment of OLTs.

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, CDSR, DARE and Central were searched systematically from inception to February 2023 according to the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. All clinical studies with a description of postoperative rehabilitation criteria after surgical treatment of OLTs were included. The primary outcome of this study is the extent of reportage for each rehabilitation parameter expressed in percentage. The secondary outcome is the reported median time for each parameter in rehabilitation protocols for all different treatment modalities (type of surgery). The median time, expressed as number of weeks, for each parameter was compared between different types of surgery.

RESULTS

A total of 227 articles were included reporting on 255 different rehabilitation protocols from seven different types of surgery. Weight-bearing instructions were reported in 84%-100% and the use of a cast or walker was prescribed in 27%-100%. Range of motion exercises were described in 54%-100% whereas physical therapy was advised in 21%-67% of the protocols. Any advice on return to sport was described in 0%-67% protocols. A nonparametric analysis of variance showed significant differences between the different surgical treatment modalities for the following parameters between the treatment groups: time to full weight-bearing (p < 0.0003) and return to high impact level of sports (p < 0.0003). Subjective or objective criteria for progression during rehabilitation were reported in only 24% of the studies.

CONCLUSION

An in-depth exploration of the current literature showed substantial variation in postoperative rehabilitation guidelines with an associated underreporting of the most important rehabilitation parameters in postoperative protocols after surgical treatment of OLTs. Furthermore, nearly all rehabilitation protocols were constructed according to a time-based approach. Only one out of four reported either objective or subjective criteria.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, systematic review.

Low annual revision rate in ankle distraction for ankle osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Ankle osteoarthritis severely impacts patients' mental and physical quality of life. Besides total ankle replacement and ankle arthrodesis, ankle distraction has been shown to be a promising alternative. The primary aim of the present study was to determine the annual revision rates (ARRs) after ankle distraction. The secondary aim was to obtain an overview of patient-reported outcome measures and functional outcomes.

METHODS

A literature search until November 2023 was performed. Methodological quality was assessed using the methodological index for non-randomised studies criteria. Primary outcome was the ARR which was log-transformed and pooled using a random effects model. Secondary outcomes were pooled using a simplified pooling technique and included the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society Ankle-Hindfoot Scale (AOFAS), range of motion (ROM) and post-operative complications.

RESULTS

The literature search resulted in 287 articles, of which 10 studies, comprising 602 patients, were included. The patients had a pooled mean age of 47 years (range of means: 40-68) and a mean follow-up of 35 months (range of means: 24-48). The overall methodological quality was moderate to fair. The pooled ARR after ankle distraction was 4% (95% confidence interval [CI], 3%-7%). Pooling of AOFAS showed mean 26-point improvement (from 54 to 80). Additionally, ROM dorsiflexion improved at 5°, and the plantarflexion remained at 31°. The overall complication rate was 41% (95% CI, 35%-48%), of which 77% (95% CI, 67%-85%) were pin-tract infections.

CONCLUSION

Ankle distraction results in an ARR of 4% (95% CI, 3%-7%) with clinically relevant improved AOFAS scores. The overall complication rate is 41% and is mainly attributable to treatable pin-tract infections (77% of recorded complications).

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Higher Age is Associated with Lower Likelihood of Conversion to Surgery after Primary Nonoperative Treatment for Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus

INTRODUCTION

The first line of treatment for osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLT) is nonoperative. To date, there is limited evidence on risk factors that may influence conversion to surgery after primary nonoperative treatment for symptomatic OLTs. The aim of this study was therefore to identify risk factors for conversion to surgery after initial nonoperative treatment of OLTs.

METHODS

For this cohort study, patients with a primary OLT who were nonoperatively treated for at least 6 months between 1990 and 2020 were included. Univariable Cox regression analysis, resulting in hazard ratios (HRs), on the primary outcome (i.e. conversion to surgery after initial nonoperative treatment) was performed for potential risk factors. The following risk factors were analyzed: gender, age, body mass index (BMI), numeric rating scale (NRS), lesion size (depth, sagittal length, coronal length, volume, surface), lesion morphology (presence of fragments and presence of cysts), lesion location (medial/central/lateral), congruency of the ankle joint and trauma in history. Data imputation was conducted according to the multiple data principle with pooling.

RESULTS

Forty-two patients with primary OLTs were included in this study: 23 (55%) males and 19 (45%) females with a mean age of 39.1 (SD: 14.2). The median overall follow-up time was 66 months (range: 7-188). Around 23% of the patients had a conversion to surgery at the median observation time. The Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed a survival rate of 93% (95% confidence interval [CI]:84-100), 90% (95% CI: 81-99), and 77% (95% CI: 63-91) at 1, 2, and 5 years after the initiation of treatment, respectively. After performing the COX regression analysis, age was the sole risk factor significantly associated with conversion to surgery with an HR of 0.93 (95% CI: 0.87-0.99). The different HRs for all other risk factors were as follows: gender: 0.33 (95% CI: 0.08-1.34), BMI: 0.87 (95% CI 0.76-1.01), depth: 0.97 (95% CI: 0.79-1.18), coronal length: 1.19 (95% CI: 0.97-1.44), sagittal length: 0.98 (95% CI: 0.87-1.12), surface area: 1.17 (95% CI: 0.41-3.31), volume: 0.96 (95% CI: 0.24-3.91), presence of fragments: 4.17 (95% CI: 0.84-20.61).

CONCLUSION

For primary OLTs, 77% of the patients were successfully treated nonoperatively at a median follow-up of 66 months without the need for a surgical intervention. Survival rates of 93%, 90%, and 77% were found at 1, 2, and 5 years after the initiation of treatment, respectively. We found that a higher age at the moment of diagnosis was significantly associated with a lower likelihood of conversion to surgery with a 7% decrease of likelihood each year the patient is older at the moment of diagnosis. The findings of this study are clinically relevant as it ameliorates the quality of the shared decision-making process between the patient and the treating team as we can advise OLT patients at a higher age with tolerable symptomatology that there is a relatively lower risk of conversion to surgery.

Cuboid Cobbles Hinder Elite Youth Football Player

We describe an elite youth football player who developed lateral foot pain of previously unknown origin. A thorough patient history and physical examination as well as an in-depth presentation of radiographic findings on Computed tomography (CT) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan were described. Through this combination, the puzzle was resolved and a rare peroneus longus tendinopathy due to bony spurs in the cuboid groove was diagnosed. A peroneus longus exploration, release and reduction of the cuboidal bone spurs was performed and intensive rehabilitation phase followed. The patient successfully returned to performance and set a career in professional football.

Sub-calcaneal plantar fat pad assessment using dual-energy computed tomography: First experience in the diabetic foot

BACKGROUND

This study assessed the use of dual-energy computed tomography (CT) to evaluate sub-calcaneal plantar fat pad changes in people with diabetic neuropathy.

METHODS

Dual-energy CT scans of people with diabetic neuropathy and non-diabetic controls were retrospectively included. Average CT values (in Hounsfield Units) and thickness (in centimeters) of the sub-calcaneal plantar fat pad were measured in mono-energetic images at two energy levels (40 keV and 70 keV). The CT values measured in patients with diabetic neuropathy were correlated to barefoot plantar pressure measurements performed during walking in a clinical setting.

FINDINGS

Forty-five dual-energy CT scans of people with diabetic neuropathy and eleven DECT scans of non-diabetic controls were included. Mean sub-calcaneal plantar fat pad thickness did not significantly differ between groups (diabetes group 1.20 ± 0.34 cm vs. control group 1.21 ± 0.28 cm, P = 0.585). CT values at both 40 keV (-34.7 ± 48.7 HU vs. -76.0 ± 42.8 HU, P = 0.013) and 70 keV (-11.2 ± 30.8 HU vs. -36.3 ± 27.2 HU, P = 0.017) were significantly higher in the diabetes group compared to controls, thus contained less fatty tissue. This elevation was most apparent in patients with Type 1 diabetes. CT values positively correlated with the mean peak plantar pressure.

INTERPRETATION

Dual-energy CT was able to detect changes in the plantar fat pad of people with diabetic neuropathy.

Watching a movie or listening to music is effective in managing perioperative anxiety and pain: a randomised controlled trial

PURPOSE

Despite the use of perioperative anxiolytics and pain medication, surgery can be a stressful and painful experience. Providing patients with distractions using video and/or audio tools in addition to medication may be helpful. To date, no studies have compared different distraction modalities in a same-day surgical setting in adults. This study aims to determine whether audio-visual distraction with video glasses (AVD) is more effective in reducing anxiety and pain compared to audio distraction (AD) in conscious patients undergoing orthopaedic surgery. It was hypothesised that AVD, being the more immersive modality, would be more effective than AD on the outcome parameters.

METHODS

Fifty patients undergoing orthopaedic surgery with local and/or regional anaesthesia in a clinical day-care setting were randomly assigned to receive either fixed-scenery AVD or patient-choice AD with music. Primary outcome was anxiety, as measured by the Dutch version of the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory-6 (STAI-6) prior to and 15 min after the intervention. Secondary outcomes were pain (Numeric Rating Scale Pain [NRS-P]), systolic and diastolic blood pressure, heart rate and patient satisfaction.

RESULTS

Within each group, there was a significant reduction in anxiety (p = 0.028 for AVD, p < 0.001 for AD). In contrast to our hypothesis, listening to music without watching a video (AD group) reduced anxiety significantly more than experiencing full AVD (p = 0.018). The mean pain score did not change significantly within either user group, nor did pain scores differ between user groups.

CONCLUSION

In conscious patients undergoing surgery, watching a movie (using video glasses and a headphone set) and listening to music (using only a headphone set) are able to significantly reduce anxiety. AVD, although believed to provide higher levels of distraction, did not prove to be superior to AD. The clinical relevance of this study highlights the potential benefits of AVD or AD modalities in improving the surgical experience for conscious patients. Further research is required to examine the influence of freedom of choice in content on the aforementioned outcomes. To estimate the true value of higher immersion levels, different distraction modalities (e.g. AVD versus virtual reality) featuring the exact same scenery or content need to be compared.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level I.

Talar OsteoPeriostic Grafting from the Iliac Crest (TOPIC): Two-Year Prospective Results of a Novel Press-Fit Surgical Technique for Large, Complex Osteochondral Lesions of the Medial Talus

BACKGROUND

Press-fit Talar OsteoPeriostic grafting from the Iliac Crest (TOPIC) is a novel technique for the treatment of large osteochondral lesions of the talus. The purpose of the present study was to prospectively evaluate the 2-year clinical outcomes for patients with medial osteochondral lesions of the talus that were treated with the TOPIC procedure.

METHODS

Forty-three patients were prospectively assessed before and 24 months after the TOPIC procedure. All procedures were performed through a medial distal tibial osteotomy. Clinical assessment preoperatively and at 24 months of follow-up included determination of the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) scores for pain during walking (primary outcome), at rest, during running, and during stair-climbing. The Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) and the Mental Component Summary (MCS) score and Physical Component Summary (PCS) score of the Short Form-36 (SF-36) were also assessed. A computed tomography (CT) scan was performed 12 weeks postoperatively to assess union of the distal tibial osteotomy site and at 1 and 2 years postoperatively to assess consolidation of the graft as well as cyst development in the graft.

RESULTS

All enrolled patients were available for follow-up. The median NRS score for pain during walking improved from 7 points preoperatively to 2 points at 2 years postoperatively (p < 0.001). All other NRS scores for pain improved significantly. All FAOS subscale scores improved significantly, including those for pain (from 53 to 75), symptoms (from 50 to 61), activities of daily living (from 68 to 88), sports (from 30 to 55), and quality of life (from 19 to 38). The SF-36 PCS score improved from 43 to 48 (p < 0.001), and the MCS score changed from 28 to 26 (p > 0.05). There was a 100% rate of union of the osteotomy site at the distal tibia and 100% of the grafts showed consolidation at 1 and 2 years postoperatively.

CONCLUSIONS

The TOPIC procedure for large osteochondral lesions of the medial talar dome is an effective technique that resulted in significant improvement exceeding the minimal clinically important difference in pain scores (primary outcome) as well as in other outcomes, with 100% consolidation of the grafts.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level IV . See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Non-operative management for osteochondral lesions of the talus: a systematic review of treatment modalities, clinical- and radiological outcomes

PURPOSE

The purpose of the present study was to assess the overall clinical success rate of non-operative management for osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLT).

METHODS

A literature search was conducted in the PubMed (MEDLINE), COCHRANE and EMBASE (Ovid) databases. Clinical success rates per separate study were calculated at the latest moment of follow-up and were defined as successful when a good or excellent clinical result at follow-up was reported in a qualitative manner or when a post-operative American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score at or above 80 was reached. When clinical outcomes were based on other clinical scoring systems, outcomes reported as good or excellent were considered as clinical success. Studies methodologically eligible for a simplified pooling method were combined to calculate an overall pooled clinical success rate. Radiological changes over the course of conservative treatment were assessed either considering local OLT changes and/or overall ankle joint changes.

RESULTS

Thirty articles were included, including an overall of 868 patients. The median follow-up of the included studies was 37 months (range: 3-288 months). A simplified pooling method was possible among 16 studies and yielded an overall pooled clinical success rate of 45% (95% CI 40-50%). As assessed with plain radiographs, progression of ankle joint osteoarthritis was observed in of 9% (95% CI 6-14%) of the patients. As assessed through a Computed Tomography (CT) scan, focal OLT deterioration was observed in 11% (95% CI 7-18%) of the patients. As assessed with a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan, focal OLT deterioration was observed in 12% (95% CI 6-24%) of the patients. An unchanged lesion was detected on plain radiographs in 53% (48/91; CI 43-63%), 76% (99/131; 95% CI 68-82%) on a CT scan and on MRI in 84% (42/50; 95% CI 71-92%) of the patients.

CONCLUSION

The current literature on non-operative management of OLTs is scarce and heterogeneous on indication and type of treatment. Promising clinical results are presented but need to interpreted with caution due to the heterogeneity in indication, duration and type of treatment. Further studies need to focus on specific types on conservative management, indications and its results.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Systematic review, Level IV.

8 out of 10 patients do well after surgery for tarsal coalitions: A systematic review on 1284 coalitions

BACKGROUND

The primary aim was to determine the clinical success rate after treatment for talocalcaneal (TCC) and calcaneonavicular coalitions (CNC). The secondary aim was to evaluate the complication, recurrence and revision rate.

METHODS

A search was carried out in MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane Library. Methodological quality was assessed using the Methodological Index for Non-Randomised Studies (MINORS) criteria. The primary outcome was the clinical success rate and was pooled per type of coalition and treatment modality. 95% Confidence Intervals (CI) of the success rates were calculated. Secondary outcomes included complication rates, coalition recurrence rates, revision rates and pain improvement using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). A sub-analysis on interposition material was performed.

RESULTS

43 articles comprising of 1284 coalitions were included, with a pooled mean follow-up of 51 months. Methodological quality was fair. The overall pooled success rate for TCCs was 79% (95% CI, 75%-83%). Conservative treatment, open resection and arthroscopic resection of TCCs resulted in success rates of 58% (95% CI, 42%-73%), 80% (95% CI, 76%-84%) and 86% (95% CI, 71%-94%), respectively. CNCs have an overall success rate of 81% (95% CI, 75%-85%), with 100% (95% CI, 34%-100%), 80% (95% CI, 74%-85%) and 100% (95% CI, 65%-100%) for conservative treatment, open resection and arthroscopic resection, respectively. Pooled complication rates of 4% (95% CI, 3%-7%) for TCCs and 6% (95% CI, 4%-11%) for CNCs were found. The success rates of resection with and without interposition material for TCCs were 83% (95% CI, 78%-87%) and 79% (95% CI, 65%-88%), and for CNCs 81% (95% CI, 76%-86%) and 69% (95% CI, 44%-85%), respectively.

CONCLUSION

Treatment of tarsal coalitions can be considered good to excellent as well as safe, with an overall clinical success rate of 79% for TCCs and 81% for CNCs. Arthroscopic resection of the coalition appears to be non-inferior to open resection of TCCs and CNCs.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, Systematic Review.

Paediatric ankle cartilage lesions: Proceedings of the International Consensus Meeting on Cartilage Repair of the Ankle

BACKGROUND

The evidence supporting best practice guidelines in the field of cartilage repair of the ankle are based on both low quality and low levels of evidence. Therefore, an international consensus group of experts was convened to collaboratively advance toward consensus opinions based on the best available evidence on key topics within cartilage repair of the ankle. The purpose of this article is to report the consensus statements on "Pediatric Ankle Cartilage Lesions" developed at the 2019 International Consensus Meeting on Cartilage Repair of the Ankle.

METHODS

Forty-three international experts in cartilage repair of the ankle representing 20 countries convened to participate in a process based on the Delphi method of achieving consensus. Questions and statements were drafted within four working groups focusing on specific topics within cartilage repair of the ankle, after which a comprehensive literature review was performed and the available evidence for each statement was graded. Discussion and debate occurred in cases where statements were not agreed upon in unanimous fashion within the working groups. A final vote was then held, and the strength of consensus was characterised as follows: consensus: 51-74%; strong consensus: 75-99%; unanimous: 100%.

RESULTS

A total of 12 statements on paediatric ankle cartilage lesions reached consensus during the 2019 International Consensus Meeting on Cartilage Repair of the Ankle. Five achieved unanimous support, and seven reached strong consensus (>75% agreement). All statements reached at least 84% agreement.

CONCLUSIONS

This international consensus derived from leaders in the field will assist clinicians with the management of paediatric ankle cartilage lesions.

15% of Talar Osteochondral Lesions Are Present Bilaterally While Only 1 in 3 Bilateral Lesions Are Bilaterally Symptomatic

BACKGROUND

The primary aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence of osteochondral lesions of the contralateral talus in patients with computed tomography (CT)-confirmed osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLT). The secondary aims were to determine if the contralateral lesions were symptomatic and to describe the demographic characteristics and radiographic presentation of patients with bilateral OLT.

METHODS

To identify patients with bilateral OLT, we utilized a cross-sectional database of consecutive patients with a CT-proven OLT who had undergone bilateral CT scanning at our hospital between January 1989 and June 2021. The primary outcome was the prevalence of bilateral OLT. Patients with bilateral OLT were grouped into a unilaterally symptomatic group and a bilaterally symptomatic group. Patient and lesion characteristics were compared between these groups as well as between the symptomatic and asymptomatic ankles in the unilaterally symptomatic group. Radiographic examination included lesion volume, location, and morphology.

RESULTS

Of 1,062 patients with OLT, 161 (15%) had bilateral OLT. Of the patients with bilateral OLT, 53 (33%) were bilaterally symptomatic. Patients who were bilaterally symptomatic were younger (p = 0.03) and more likely to present with a non-traumatic etiology (p < 0.01) in comparison with those who were unilaterally symptomatic. No differences were observed between the unilaterally and bilaterally symptomatic groups in terms of lesion morphology, volume, or location. In the unilaterally symptomatic group, lesion volume was significantly larger in symptomatic ankles in comparison with the contralateral, asymptomatic ankles (p < 0.01), but no significant differences were observed in terms of lesion morphology or location.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients presenting with symptomatic OLT, the prevalence of bilateral OLT was 15%, and 1 in 3 patients with bilateral OLT were symptomatic on both sides. Larger lesion volume was associated with the presence of symptoms in patients with bilateral OLT. For patients with bilateral OLT, the treating team should be aware that younger patients and patients without a history of trauma are at a higher risk for having bilateral symptoms.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic Level III . See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Lower leg symmetry: a Q3D-CT analysis

PURPOSE

In fracture and realignment surgery, the contralateral unaffected side is often used as a model or template for the injured bone even though clinically valuable quantitative data of bilateral symmetry are often unavailable. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to quantify and present the bilateral symmetry of the tibia and fibula.

METHODS

Twenty bilateral lower-leg CT scans were acquired in healthy volunteers. The left and right tibia and fibula were segmented resulting in three-dimensional polygons for geometrical analyses (volume, surface and length). The distal and proximal segment of the right tibia of each individual was subsequently matched to the left tibia to quantify alignment differences (translation and rotation). Bone symmetry on group level was assessed using the Student's t test and intra-individual differences were assessed using mixed-models analyses.

RESULTS

Intra-individuals differences were found for tibia volume (5.2 ± 3.3 cm³), tibia surface (5.2 ± 3.3 cm²), translations in the lateral (X-axis; 9.3 ± 8.9 mm) and anterior direction (Y-axis; 7.1 ± 7.0 mm), for tibia length (translation along Z-axis: 3.1 ± 2.4 mm), varus/valgus (φ_z: 1.7^o ± 1.4°), and endotorsion/exotorsion (φ_z: 4.0^o ± 2.7°).

CONCLUSION

This study shows intra-individual tibia asymmetry in both geometric and alignment parameters of which the surgeon needs to be aware in pre-operative planning. The high correlation between tibia and fibula length allows the ipsilateral fibula to aid in estimating the original tibia length post-injury. Future studies need to establish whether the found asymmetry is clinically relevant when the contralateral side is used as reference in corrective surgery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III cohort study.

One in Three Patients With Chronic Lateral Ankle Instability Has a Cartilage Lesion

BACKGROUND

Chronic lateral ankle instability (CLAI) is associated with the presence or development of intra-articular pathologies such as chondral or osteochondral lesions, or (O)CLs. Currently, the incidence of (O)CLs in patients with CLAI is unknown.

PURPOSE

To determine the incidence of (O)CLs in patients with CLAI.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

A literature search was conducted in the PubMed (MEDLINE), Embase (Ovid), and Cochrane databases for articles published from January 2000 until December 2020. Two authors independently screened the search results and conducted the quality assessment using the methodological index for non-randomized studies (MINORS) criteria. Clinical studies were included that reported findings on the presence of ankle (O)CLs based on pre- or intraoperative diagnostic measures in patients with CLAI (>6 months of symptoms). Patient and lesion characteristics were pooled using a simplified method. Lesion characteristics included localization and chondral and osteochondral involvement. The primary outcome was the incidence of (O)CLs in ankles with CLAI. A random-effects model with 95% CIs was used to analyze the primary outcome. The distribution of (O)CLs in the ankle joint was reported according to talar or tibial involvement, with medial and lateral divisions for talar involvement.

RESULTS

Twelve studies were included with 2145 patients and 2170 ankles with CLAI. The pooled incidence of (O)CLs in ankles with CLAI was 32.2% (95% CI, 22.7%-41.7%). Among all lesions, 43% were chondral and 57% were osteochondral. Among all (O)CLs, 85% were located on the talus and 17% on the distal tibia. Of the talar (O)CLs, 68% were located medially and 32% laterally.

CONCLUSION

(O)CLs were found in up to 32% of ankles with CLAI. The most common location was the talus (85%). Furthermore, most lesions were located on the medial talar dome (68%). These findings will aid physicians in the early recognition and treatment of ankle (O)CLs in the context of CLAI.

Biomechanical and musculoskeletal changes after flexor tenotomy to reduce the risk of diabetic neuropathic toe ulcer recurrence

OBJECTIVE

To assess the effect of flexor tenotomy in patients with diabetes on barefoot plantar pressure, toe joint angles and ulcer recurrence during patient follow-up.

METHODS

Patients with a history of ulceration on the toe apex were included. They underwent minimally invasive needle flexor tenotomy by an experienced musculoskeletal surgeon. Dynamic barefoot plantar pressure measurements and static weight-bearing radiographs were taken before and 2-4 weeks after the procedure.

RESULTS

A total of 14 patients underwent flexor tenotomy on 50 toes in 19 feet. There was a mean follow-up time of 11.4 months. No ulcer recurrence occurred during follow-up. Mean barefoot plantar pressure was assessed on 34 toes and decreased significantly after the procedure by a mean 279 kPa (95% CI: 204-353; p < 0.001). Metatarsophalangeal, proximal interphalangeal and distal interphalangeal joint angles were assessed on nine toes and all decreased significantly (by 7° [95% CI: 4-9; p < 0.001], 19° [95% CI: 11-26; p < 0.001] and 28° [95% CI: 13-44; p = 0.003], respectively).

CONCLUSION

These observations show a beneficial effect of flexor tenotomy on biomechanical and musculoskeletal outcomes in the toes, without ulcer recurrence.

Difference in orientation of the talar articular facets between healthy ankle joints and ankle joints with chronic instability

Since both the talocrural and subtalar joints can be involved in chronic ankle instability, the present study assessed the talar morphology as this bone is the key player between both joint levels. The 3D orientation and curvature of the superior and the posteroinferior facet between subjects with chronic ankle instability and healthy controls were compared. Hereto, the talus was segmented in the computed tomography images of a control group and a chronic ankle instability group, after which they were reconstructed to 3D surface models. A cylinder was fitted to the subchondral articulating surfaces. The axis of a cylinder represented the facet orientation, which was expressed by an inclination and deviation angle in a coordinate system based on the cylinder of the superior talar facet and the geometric principal axes of the subject's talus. The curvature of the surface was expressed as the radius of the cylinder. The results demonstrated no significant differences in the radius or deviation angle. However, the inclination angle of the posteroinferior talar facet was significantly more plantarly orientated (by 3.5°) in the chronic instability group (14.7 ± 3.1°) compared to the control group (11.2 ± 4.9°) (p < 0.05). In the coronal plane this corresponds to a valgus orientation of the posteroinferior talar facet relative to the talar dome. In conclusion, a more plantarly and valgus orientated posteroinferior talar facet may be associated to chronic ankle instability.

Osteochondral Lesions of the Tibial Plafond and Ankle Instability With Ankle Cartilage Lesions: Proceedings of the International Consensus Meeting on Cartilage Repair of the Ankle

BACKGROUND

An international consensus group of experts was convened to collaboratively advance toward consensus opinions based on the best available evidence on key topics within cartilage repair of the ankle. The purpose of this article is to present the consensus statements on osteochondral lesions of the tibial plafond (OLTP) and on ankle instability with ankle cartilage lesions developed at the 2019 International Consensus Meeting on Cartilage Repair of the Ankle.

METHODS

Forty-three experts in cartilage repair of the ankle were convened and participated in a process based on the Delphi method of achieving consensus. Questions and statements were drafted within 4 working groups focusing on specific topics within cartilage repair of the ankle, after which a comprehensive literature review was performed and the available evidence for each statement was graded. Discussion and debate occurred in cases where statements were not agreed on in unanimous fashion within the working groups. A final vote was then held.

RESULTS

A total of 11 statements on OLTP reached consensus. Four achieved unanimous support and 7 reached strong consensus (greater than 75% agreement). A total of 8 statements on ankle instability with ankle cartilage lesions reached consensus during the 2019 International Consensus Meeting on Cartilage Repair of the Ankle. One achieved unanimous support, and seven reached strong consensus (greater than 75% agreement).

CONCLUSION

These consensus statements may assist clinicians in the management of these difficult clinical pathologies.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level V, mechanism-based reasoning.

Can bedside needle arthroscopy of the ankle be an accurate option for intra-articular delivery of injectable agents?

BACKGROUND

Bedside needle arthroscopy of the ankle under local anesthesia has been proposed for intra-articular delivery of injectable agents. Accuracy and tolerability of this approach in the clinical setting–including patients with end-stage ankle pathology and/or a history of prior surgery–is not known.

AIM

To assess clinical accuracy and tolerability of bedside needle arthroscopy as a delivery system for injectable agents into the tibiotalar joint.

METHODS

This was a prospective study that included adult patients who were scheduled for an injection with hyaluronic acid to the tibiotalar joint. In our center, these injections are used as a last resort prior to extensive surgery. The primary outcome was injection accuracy, which was defined as injecting through the arthroscopic cannula with intra-articular positioning confirmed by a clear arthroscopic view of the joint space. Secondary outcome measures included a patient-reported numeric rating scale (NRS, 0-10) of pain during the procedure and willingness of patients to return for the same procedure. NRS of ankle pain at rest and during walking was collected at baseline and at 2-wk follow-up. Complications were monitored from inclusion up to a 2-wk control visit.

RESULTS

We performed 24 inspection-injections. Eleven (46%) participants were male, and mean age was 46.8 ± 14.5 years. Osteoarthritis was the indication for injection in 20 (83%) cases, of which 8 (33%) patients suffered from osteoarthritis Kellgren-Lawrence grade IV, and 10 (42%) patients from Kellgren-Lawrence grade III. An osteochondral defect was the indication for injection in 4 (17%) cases. A history of ankle surgery was present in 14 (58%) participants and a history of multiple ankle surgeries in 11 (46%) participants. It was possible to confirm accuracy in 21 (88%) procedures. The 3 (12%) participants where needle arthroscopy did not reach a clear view of the joint space all suffered from Kellgren-Lawrence grade IV osteoarthritis. Pain during the procedure was reported with a median of 1 [interquartile ranges (IQR): 0–2]. Willingness to return was 100%. Pain in rest decreased from a median NRS of 4 (IQR: 2–7) at baseline to a median of 3 (IQR: 1–5) at follow-up (P < 0.01). Pain during walking decreased from a median NRS of 8 (IQR: 6–9) to a median of 7 (IQR: 4–8) (P < 0.01). Infections or other complications were not encountered.

CONCLUSION

Clinical accuracy and tolerability of bedside needle arthroscopy of the ankle as a delivery system for injectable agents are excellent. Accuracy was 100% in patients without total ventral joint obliteration.

Outcomes of Bone Marrow Stimulation for Secondary Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus Equal Outcomes for Primary Lesions

OBJECTIVE

To compare clinical, sports, work, and radiological outcomes between primary and secondary osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLTs; <15 mm) treated with arthroscopic bone marrow stimulation (BMS).

DESIGN

Secondary OLTs were matched to primary OLTs in a 1:2 ratio to assess the primary outcome measure-the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) during activities. Secondary outcomes included the pre- and 1-year postoperative NRS at rest, American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society score, Foot and Ankle Outcome Score subscales, and the EQ-5D general health questionnaire. The rates and time to return to work and sports were collected. Radiological examinations were performed preoperatively and at final follow-up using computed tomography (CT).

RESULTS

After matching, 22 and 12 patients with small (<15 mm) OLTs were included in the primary and secondary groups, respectively. The NRS during activities was not different between primary cases (median: 2, interquartile range [IQR]: 1-4.5) and secondary cases (median: 3, IQR: 1-4), P = 0.5. Both groups showed a significant difference between all pre- and postoperative clinical outcome scores, but no significant difference between BMS groups postoperatively. The return to sport rate was 90% for primary cases and 83% for secondary cases (P = 0.6). All patients returned to work. Lesion filling on CT was complete (67% to 100%) in 59% of primary cases and 67% of secondary cases (P = 0.6).

CONCLUSION

No differences in outcomes were observed between arthroscopic bone marrow stimulation in primary and secondary OLTs at 1-year follow-up. Repeat BMS may therefore be a viable treatment option for failed OLTs in the short term.

Evidence-based Treatment of Failed Primary Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus: A Systematic Review on Clinical Outcomes of Bone Marrow Stimulation

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study is to systematically review the literature and to evaluate the outcomes following bone marrow stimulation (BMS) for nonprimary osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLT).

DESIGN

A literature search was performed to identify studies published using PubMed (MEDLINE), EMBASE, CDSR, DARE, and CENTRAL. The review was performed according to the PRISMA guidelines. Two authors separately and independently screened the search results and conducted the quality assessment using the Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies (MINORS). Studies were pooled on clinical, sports, work, and imaging outcomes, as well as revision rates and complications. The primary outcome was clinical success rate.

RESULTS

Five studies with 70 patients were included in whom nonprimary OLTs were treated with secondary BMS. The pooled clinical success rate was 61% (95% confidence interval [CI], 50-72). The rate of return to any level of sport was 83% (95% CI, 70-91), while the return to pre-injury level of sport was 55% (95% CI, 34-74). The rate of return to work was 92% (95% CI, 78-97), and the complication rate was assessed to be 10% (95% CI, 4-22). Imaging outcomes were heterogeneous in outcome assessment, though a depressed subchondral bone plate was observed in 91% of the patients. The revision rate was 27% (95% CI, 18-40).

CONCLUSIONS

The overall success rate of arthroscopic BMS for nonprimary osteochondral lesions of the talus was 61%, including a revision rate of 27%. Return to sports, work, and complication outcomes yielded fair to good results.

Effect of Platelet-Rich Plasma Injections vs Placebo on Ankle Symptoms and Function in Patients With Ankle Osteoarthritis: A Randomized Clinical Trial

IMPORTANCE

Approximately 3.4% of adults have ankle (tibiotalar) osteoarthritis and, among younger patients, ankle osteoarthritis is more common than knee and hip osteoarthritis. Few effective nonsurgical interventions exist, but platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections are widely used, with some evidence of efficacy in knee osteoarthritis.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effect of PRP injections on symptoms and function in patients with ankle osteoarthritis.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

A multicenter, block-randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial performed at 6 sites in the Netherlands that included 100 patients with pain greater than 40 on a visual analog scale (range, 0-100) and tibiotalar joint space narrowing. Enrollment began on August 24, 2018, and follow-up was completed on December 3, 2020.

INTERVENTIONS

Patients were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive 2 ultrasonography-guided intra-articular injections of either PRP (n = 48) or placebo (saline; n = 52).

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The primary outcome was the validated American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society score (range, 0-100; higher scores indicate less pain and better function; minimal clinically important difference, 12 points) over 26 weeks.

RESULTS

Among 100 randomized patients (mean age, 56 years; 45 [45%] women), no patients were lost to follow-up for the primary outcome. Compared with baseline values, the mean American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society score improved by 10 points in the PRP group (from 63 to 73 points [95% CI, 6-14]; P < .001) and 11 points in the placebo group (from 64 to 75 points [95% CI, 7-15]; P < .001). The adjusted between-group difference over 26 weeks was -1 ([95% CI, -6 to 3]; P = .56). One serious adverse event was reported in the placebo group, which was unrelated to the intervention; there were 13 other adverse events in the PRP group and 8 in the placebo group.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Among patients with ankle osteoarthritis, intra-articular PRP injections, compared with placebo injections, did not significantly improve ankle symptoms and function over 26 weeks. The results of this study do not support the use of PRP injections for ankle osteoarthritis.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Netherlands Trial Register: NTR7261.

Bacterial arthritis of native joints can be successfully managed with needle arthroscopy

PURPOSE

To assess the feasibility of needle arthroscopy for management of suspected bacterial arthritis in native joints.

METHODS

During a pilot period, patients presenting with symptoms suggestive of native joint bacterial arthritis were eligible for initial management with needle arthroscopy. Procedures were performed in the operating theatre or at the patient bedside in the emergency department or inpatient ward. As our primary outcome measure, it was assessed whether needle arthroscopic lavage resulted in a clear joint. In addition, the need for conversion to standard arthroscopy or arthrotomy, the need for conversion from local to general anaesthesia, complications and the need for additional surgical intervention at follow-up during admission were recorded.

RESULTS

Eleven joints in 10 patients (four males, age range 35 - 77) were managed with needle arthroscopy. Needle arthroscopic lavage resulted in a clear joint in all cases. Conversion to standard arthroscopy or arthrotomy was not needed. Seven procedures were performed at the patient bedside using local anaesthesia. These procedures were well tolerated and conversion to general or spinal anaesthesia was not required. There were no procedure complications. One patient received multiple needle arthroscopic lavages. No further surgical interventions beside the initial needle arthroscopic lavage were required for successful management in other cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Needle arthroscopy can be a feasible tool in the initial management of complaints suggestive for native joint bacterial arthritis, providing an effective, quick and well-tolerable intervention in the operating theatre or at the patient bedside, with the potential to relief health systems from need for scarce operating theatre time.

Surgical Treatment of Osteochondral Lesions of the Tibial Plafond: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

The literature on osteochondral lesions of the tibial plafond (OLTPs) is sparse. The aim of this study was therefore to provide an overview of clinical and radiological outcomes following treatment of OLTPs.

METHODS

We performed a systematic search of the MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane library databases. The review was performed in accordance with the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines and included all original articles on treatment outcomes for OLTPs. The methodological quality of the articles was assessed using the Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies (MINORS). Baseline patient and lesion characteristics were pooled and weighted according to the number of lesions per study. The primary outcome was any clinical or patient-reported outcome measure pooled by treatment method when separable data were available. Secondary outcomes were complications, reoperation rates, radiological outcomes, and sport outcomes.

RESULTS

The search yielded 2,079 articles, of which 10 studies (1 prospective case series, 1 retrospective comparative study, and 8 retrospective case series) with a total of 175 patients were included. The overall methodological quality of the studies was low. All patients were treated surgically; 96% of the lesions were primary cases (i.e., first-time surgery) and 58% were solitary tibial lesions (i.e., no opposing talar lesion). Arthroscopic bone marrow stimulation was the most frequently used treatment strategy (51%), followed by cartilage transplantation (17%), chondrogenesis-inducing techniques (11%), osteochondral transplantation (3%), retrograde drilling (3%), and mixed (i.e., inseparable) treatments (15%). The clinical outcomes of the different surgical therapies were considered to be moderate to good. The pooled postoperative AOFAS (American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society) score for bone marrow stimulation and osteochondral transplantation was 54.8 (95% confidence interval [CI], 49.5 to 85.0) (n = 14) and 85.3 (95% CI, 56 to 100) (n = 3), respectively. Overall, complications and reoperations were rarely reported. The pooled complication and reoperation rates could only be calculated for bone marrow stimulation and were 5% and 7%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgical interventions for OLTPs appear to yield moderate to good clinical outcomes. Bone marrow stimulation resulted in a moderate AOFAS score. Complications and reintervention rates were found to be low. The current evidence in the literature is limited because of the underreporting of clinical, radiological, and sport data and the heterogenous outcome scores reported.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

High incidence of (osteo)chondral lesions in ankle fractures

PURPOSE

To determine the incidence and location of osteochondral lesions (OCLs) following ankle fractures as well as to determine the association between fracture type and the presence of OCLs. Up to 50% of patients with ankle fractures that receive surgical treatment show suboptimal functional results with residual complaints at a long-term follow-up. This might be due to the presence of intra-articular osteochondral lesions (OCL).

METHODS

A literature search was carried out in PubMed (MEDLINE), EMBASE, CDSR, DARE and CENTRAL to identify relevant studies. Two authors separately and independently screened the search results and conducted the quality assessment using the MINORS criteria. Available full-text clinical articles on ankle fractures published in English, Dutch and German were eligible for inclusion. Per fracture classification, the OCL incidence and location were extracted from the included articles. Where possible, OCL incidence per fracture classification (Danis-Weber and/or Lauge-Hansen classification) was calculated and pooled. Two-sided p values of less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Twenty articles were included with a total of 1707 ankle fractures in 1707 patients. When focusing on ankle fractures that were assessed directly after the trauma, the OCL incidence was 45% (n = 1404). Furthermore, the most common location of an OCL following an ankle fractures was the talus (43% of all OCLs). A significant difference in OCL incidence was observed among Lauge-Hansen categories (p = 0.049). Post hoc pairwise comparisons between Lauge-Hansen categories (with adjusted significance level of 0.01) revealed no significant difference (n.s.).

CONCLUSION

OCLs are frequently seen in patients with ankle fractures when assessed both directly after and at least 12 months after initial trauma (45-47%, respectively). Moreover, the vast majority of post-traumatic OCLs were located in the talus (42.7% of all OCLs). A higher incidence of OCLs was observed with rotational type fractures. The clinical relevance of the present systematic review is that it provides an overview of the incidence and location of OCLs in ankle fractures, hereby raising awareness to surgeons of these treatable concomitant injuries. As a result, this may improve the clinical outcomes when directly addressed during index surgery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

Satisfactory long-term clinical outcomes after bone marrow stimulation of osteochondral lesions of the talus

PURPOSE

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes of arthroscopic bone marrow stimulation (BMS) for the treatment of osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLTs) at long-term follow-up.

METHODS

A literature search was conducted from the earliest record until March 2021 to identify studies published using the PubMed, EMBASE (Ovid), and Cochrane Library databases. Clinical studies reporting on arthroscopic BMS for OLTs at a minimum of 8-year follow-up were included. The review was performed according to the PRISMA guidelines. Two authors independently conducted the article selection and conducted the quality assessment using the Methodological index for Non-randomized Studies (MINORS). The primary outcome was defined as clinical outcomes consisting of pain scores and patient-reported outcome measures. Secondary outcomes concerned the return to sport rate, reoperation rate, complication rate, and the rate of progression of degenerative changes within the tibiotalar joint as a measure of ankle osteoarthritis. Associated 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were calculated based on the primary and secondary outcome measures.

RESULTS

Six studies with a total of 323 ankles (310 patients) were included at a mean pooled follow-up of 13.0 (9.5-13.9) years. The mean MINORS score of the included studies was 7.7 out of 16 points (range 6-9), indicating a low to moderate quality. The mean postoperative pooled American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score was 83.8 (95% CI 83.6-84.1). 78% (95% CI 69.5-86.8) participated in sports (at any level) at final follow-up. Return to preinjury level of sports was not reported. Reoperations were performed in 6.9% (95% CI 4.1-9.7) of ankles and complications related to the BMS procedure were observed in 2% (95% CI 0.4-3.0) of ankles. Progression of degenerative changes was observed in 28% (95% CI 22.3-33.2) of ankles.

CONCLUSION

Long-term clinical outcomes following arthroscopic BMS can be considered satisfactory even though one in three patients show progression of degenerative changes from a radiological perspective. These findings indicate that OLTs treated with BMS may be at risk of progressing towards end-stage ankle osteoarthritis over time in light of the incremental cartilage damage cascade. The findings of this study can aid clinicians and patients with the shared decision-making process when considering the long-term outcomes of BMS.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV.

High union rates following surgical treatment of proximal fifth metatarsal stress fractures

PURPOSE

The primary purpose of this study was to determine the union rate and time for surgical- and non-surgical treatment of stress fractures of the proximal fifth metatarsal (MT5). The secondary purpose was to assess the rate of adverse bone healing events (delayed union, non-union, and refractures) as well as the return to sports time and rate.

METHODS

A literature search of the EMBASE (Ovid), MEDLINE (PubMed), CINAHL, Web of Science and Google Scholar databases until March 2020 was conducted. Methodological quality was assessed by two independent reviewers using the methodological index for non-randomized studies (MINORS) criteria. The primary outcomes were the union time and rate. Secondary outcomes included the delayed union rate, non-union rate, refracture rate, and return to sport time and rate. A simplified pooling technique was used to analyse the different outcomes (i.e. union rate, time to union, adverse bone healing rates, return to sport rate, and return to sport time) per treatment modality. Additionally, 95% confidence intervals were calculated for the union rate, adverse bone healing rates, and the return to sport rate.

RESULTS

The literature search resulted in 2753 articles, of which thirteen studies were included. A total of 393 fractures, with a pooled mean follow-up of 52.5 months, were assessed. Overall, the methodological quality of the included articles was low. The pooled bone union rate was 87% (95% CI 83-90%) and 56% (95% CI 41-70%) for surgically and non-surgically treated fractures, respectively. The pooled radiological union time was 13.1 weeks for surgical treatment and 20.9 weeks for non-surgical treatment. Surgical treatment resulted in a delayed union rate of 3% (95% CI 1-5%), non-union rate of 4% (95% CI 2-6%) and refracture rate of 7% (95% CI 4-10%). Non-surgical treatment resulted in a delayed union rate of 0% (95% CI 0-8%), a non-union rate of 33% (95% CI 20-47%) and a refracture rate of 12% (95% CI 5-24%), respectively. The return to sport rate (at any level) was 100% for both treatment modalities. Return to pre-injury level of sport time was 14.5 weeks (117 fractures) for surgical treatment and 9.9 weeks (6 fractures) for non-surgical treatment.

CONCLUSION

Surgical treatment of stress fractures of the proximal fifth metatarsal results in a higher bone union rate and a shorter union time than non-surgical treatment. Additionally, surgical and non-surgical treatment both showed a high return to sport rate (at any level), albeit with limited clinical evidence for non-surgical treatment due to the underreporting of data.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, systematic review.

2-Mm Diameter Operative Tendoscopy of the Tibialis Posterior, Peroneal, and Achilles Tendons: A Cadaveric Study

BACKGROUND

Technical innovation now offers the possibility of 2-mm-diameter operative tendoscopy with disposable arthroscopes and tablet-like control units. The promises of new technology should be critically scrutinized. Therefore, this study assessed whether 2-mm-diameter operative tendoscopy of the tibialis posterior, peroneal, and Achilles tendons was safe and effective in a cadaveric model.

METHODS

A 2-mm-diameter arthroscopic system was used to perform a tendoscopic procedure in 10 nonpaired, fresh-frozen, human ankles. Standard tendoscopic portals were utilized. Visual examination and operative reach with tailored tendoscopic instruments within the tendon sheaths were recorded and documented. Adhesiolysis and vincula resections were performed. After dissection, distances between portal tracts and neurovascular structures were measured and the tendons were inspected for signs of iatrogenic damage.

RESULTS

The entire tendon sheath and tendon of the tibialis posterior, peroneus brevis, and Achilles tendons were visualized and reached with tailored operative instruments. The proximal part of the peroneus longus tendon was visible and reachable from proximally up to the cuboid bone distally. Adhesiolysis and vincula resections were successfully performed in all specimens. The mean distances between portal tracts and local neurovascular structures ranged between 9.4 and 19.2 mm and there were no cases of contact. None of the tendons showed signs of iatrogenic damage.

CONCLUSION

Two-millimeter-diameter operative tendoscopy provided safe and effective visualization and operative reach of the tibialis posterior, peroneal, and Achilles tendons.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Compared with current practice, 2-mm-diameter operative tendoscopy has the potential to make tendoscopy around the ankle less invasive and more accessible. Diagnostic, interventional, and second-look procedures might be performed at substantially reduced risk, time, and costs.

Two-millimetre diameter operative arthroscopy of the ankle is safe and effective

PURPOSE

Technical innovation now offers the possibility of 2-mm diameter operative arthroscopy: an alternative to conventional arthroscopy that no longer uses inner rod-lenses. The purpose of this study was to assess whether all significant structures in the ankle could be visualized and surgically reached during 2-mm diameter operative arthroscopy, without inflicting iatrogenic damage.

METHODS

A novel, 2-mm diameter arthroscopic system was used to perform a protocolled arthroscopic procedure in 10 fresh-frozen, human donor ankles. Standard anteromedial and anterolateral portals were utilized. Visualization and reach with tailored arthroscopic instruments of a protocolled list of articular structures were recorded and documented. A line was etched on the most posterior border of the talar and tibial cartilage that was safely reachable. The specimens were dissected and distances between portal tracts and neurovascular structures were measured. The articular surfaces of talus and tibia were photographed and inspected for iatrogenic damage. The reachable area on the articular surface was calculated and analysed.

RESULTS

All significant structures were successfully visualized and reached in all specimens. The anteromedial portal was not in contact with neurovascular structures in any specimen. The anterolateral portal collided with a branch of the superficial peroneal nerve in one case but did not cause macroscopically apparent harm. On average, 96% and 85% of the talar and tibial surfaces was reachable respectively, without causing iatrogenic damage.

CONCLUSION

2-mm diameter operative arthroscopy provides safe and effective visualization and surgical reach of the anterior ankle joint. It may hold the potential to make ankle arthroscopy less invasive and more accessible.

Arthroscopic lift, drill, fill and fix (LDFF) is an effective treatment option for primary talar osteochondral defects

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to describe the mid-term clinical and radiological results of a novel arthroscopic fixation technique for primary osteochondral defects (OCD) of the talus, named the lift, drill, fill and fix (LDFF) technique.

METHODS

Twenty-seven ankles (25 patients) underwent an arthroscopic LDFF procedure for primary fixable talar OCDs. The mean follow-up was 27 months (SD 5). Pre- and post-operative clinical assessments were prospectively performed by measuring the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) of pain in/at rest, walking and when running. Additionally, the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) and the Short Form-36 (SF-36) were used to assess clinical outcome. The patients were radiologically assessed by means of computed tomography (CT) scans pre-operatively and 1 year post-operatively.

RESULTS

The mean NRS during running significantly improved from 7.8 pre-operatively to 2.9 post-operatively (p = 0.006), the NRS during walking from 5.7 to 2.0 (p < 0.001) and the NRS in rest from 2.3 to 1.2 (p = 0.015). The median FAOS at final follow-up was 86 for pain, 63 for other symptoms, 95 for activities of daily living, 70 for sport and 53 for quality of life. A pre- and post-operative score comparison was available for 16 patients, and improved significantly in most subscores. The SF-36 physical component scale significantly improved from 42.9 to 50.1. Of the CT scans at 1 year after surgery, 81% showed a flush subchondral bone plate and 92% of OCDs showed union.

CONCLUSION

Arthroscopic LDFF of a fixable primary talar OCD results in excellent improvement of clinical outcomes. The radiological follow-up confirms that fusion of the fragment is feasible in 92%. This technique could be regarded as the new gold standard for the orthopedic surgeon comfortable with arthroscopic procedures.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prospective case series, therapeutic level IV.

Bilateral symmetry of the subtalar joint facets and the relationship between the morphology and osteoarthritic changes

There is a paucity in the literature regarding bilateral symmetry between the facets of the subtalar joint. Often surgeons use the contralateral side as a reference when dealing with a fracture or other joint pathology. Moreover, the presence of osteoarthritic (OA) changes in the subtalar joint is suggested to have a relation with its morphology. In this study, we addressed both these issues. Forty pairs of cadaveric tali and calcanei were analyzed by dissection and measurement. Twenty pairs of asymptomatic calcanei were morphologically analyzed by computer tomography imaging. In the cadaveric feet, the length and width of the facets, the number and interfacet connections, the intersection angle, and the presence of OA changes were registered. In the healthy feet, the orientation and curvature of the posterior facet were analyzed based on cylinder fittings. Bilateral symmetry was tested with paired Student's t tests. Significant associations between morphometric parameters and the presence of OA changes were tested with generalized estimating equation logistic regression models. The morphometric data demonstrated a high degree of bilateral symmetry. The types of tali and calcanei between left and right differed in about one-fifth of the individuals. No significant interactions were found between morphological parameters and the presence of OA changes. Only age had a significant association. There was a high degree of symmetry in the subtalar joints facets. No significant associations were found between OA changes and morphological features, whereas other studies did. Further research is needed to explore this relationship in further detail. Clin. Anat., 33:997-1006, 2020. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Posterior malleolar fracture morphology determines outcome in rotational type ankle fractures

INTRODUCTION

Rotational type ankle fractures with a concomitant fracture of the posterior malleolus are associated with a poorer clinical outcome as compared to ankle fractures without. However, clinical implications of posterior malleolar (PM) fracture morphology and pattern have yet to be established. Many studies on this subject report on fragment size, rather than fracture morphology based on computed tomography (CT). The overall purpose of the current study was to elucidate the correlation of PM fracture morphology and functional outcome, assessed with CT imaging and not with -unreliable- plain radiographs.

METHODS

Between January 2010 and May 2014, 194 patients with an operatively (ORIF) treated ankle fracture, were prospectively included in the randomized clinical EF3X-trial at our Level-I trauma center. The current study retrospectively included 73 patients with rotational type ankle fractures and concomitant fractures of the posterior malleolus. According to the CT-based Haraguchi fracture morphology, all patients were divided into three groups: 20 Type I (large posterolateral-oblique), 21 Type II (transverse medial-extension) and 32 Type III (small-shell fragment). At 12 weeks, 1 year and 2 years postoperatively the Foot and Ankle Outcome Scores (FAOS) and SF-36 scores were obtained, with the FAOS domain scores at two years postoperative as primary study outcome. Statistical analysis included a multivariate regression and secondary a mixed model analysis.

RESULTS

Haraguchi Type II PM ankle fractures demonstrated significantly poorer outcome scores at two years follow-up compared to Haraguchi Types I and III. Mean FAOS domain scores at two years follow-up showed to be significantly worse in Haraguchi Type II as compared to Type III, respectively: Symptoms 48.2 versus 61.7 (p = 0.03), Pain 58.5 versus 84.4 (p < 0.01), Activities of Daily Living (ADL) 64.1 versus 90.5 (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Posterior malleolar ankle fractures with medial extension of the fracture line (i.e. Haraguchi Type II) are associated with significantly poorer functional outcomes. The current dogma to fix PM fractures that involve at least 25-33% of the tibial plafond may be challenged, as posterior malleolar fracture pattern and morphology - rather than fragment size - seem to determine outcome.

Prevalence of Osteochondral Lesions in Rotational Type Ankle Fractures With Syndesmotic Injury

BACKGROUND:

The aim of this study was to report the incidence of associated osteochondral lesions (OCLs) on postop CTs, which may benefit from arthroscopic treatment, in patients with rotational type ankle fractures with syndesmotic injury. The diagnosis and treatment of associated OCLs may be an additional benefit of the use of arthroscopy in the management of rotational type ankle fractures with syndesmotic injury.

METHODS:

We retrospectively reviewed data of a prospective cohort study of patients who underwent open reduction and surgical fixation of an ankle fracture with syndesmotic injury. These patients underwent routine bilateral postoperative CT assessment. Two independent observers classified ankle fractures according to Weber and OCLs according to the classification system by Berndt and Harty. Fifty-nine patients were included. There were 19 (32%) Weber B type ankle fractures and 39 (66%) Weber C type fractures. One patient (2%) had fixation for a medial malleolus fracture and syndesmotic rupture without fibula fracture.

RESULTS:

Talar OCLs were present in 8 patients (14%). In one patient, 2 OCLs were found, which resulted in a total of 9 lesions. Two lesions were found on the medial side, both anterior. The other 7 were located laterally, of which 1 was anterior, 3 central, and 3 posterior on the talus. According to the Berndt and Harty classification, 1 was classified as stage I, 4 as stage III, and 4 as stage IV.

CONCLUSION:

The prevalence of OCLs in ankle fractures with syndesmotic instability was 14%. We believe that lesions were arthroscopically accessible in 6 patients (10%). Moreover, most lesions were located on the lateral dome, and thus also potentially approachable through an anterolateral arthrotomy during open reduction and internal fixation. The majority of OCLs found in this series were Berndt and Harty type III or IV, and so likely would preferably have been addressed during the index procedure.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:

Level III, diagnostic cohort study.

Study on the three-dimensional orientation of the posterior facet of the subtalar joint using simulated weight-bearing CT

The purpose of this study was to describe the normal 3D orientation and shape of the subtalar calcaneal posterior facet. This is not adequately described in current literature. In a supine position both feet of 20 healthy subjects were imaged in a simulated weight-bearing CT. A cylinder and plane were fitted to the posterior facet of the surface model. The orientation of both shapes was expressed by two angles in (1) the CT-based coordinate system with the axis of the foot aligned with the sagittal axis and (2) a coordinate system based on the geometric principal axes of the subject's calcaneus. The subtalar vertical angle was determined in the intersection in three different coronal planes of the cylinder. The cylinder's axis oriented from supero-postero-laterally to infero-antero-medially. The plane's normal directed supero-antero-medially in the CT-based coordinate system, and supero-antero-laterally in the other coordinate system. The subtalar vertical angle was significantly different (p < 0.001) between the three defined coronal planes and increased from anterior to posterior. The mean diameter of the fitted cylinder was 42.0 ± 7.7 mm and the root mean square error was 0.5 ± 0.1 mm. The posterior facet can be modelled as a segment of a cylinder with a supero-postero-lateral to infero-antero-medial orientation. The morphometry of the posterior facet in a healthy population serves as a reference in identifying abnormal subtalar joint morphology. More generally this study shows the need to include the full 3D morphology in assessing the orientation of the subtalar posterior facet. © 2018 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 9999:1-8, 2018.

Diagnosis, treatment and prevention of ankle sprains: update of an evidence-based clinical guideline

This guideline aimed to advance current understandings regarding the diagnosis, prevention and therapeutic interventions for ankle sprains by updating the existing guideline and incorporate new research. A secondary objective was to provide an update related to the cost-effectiveness of diagnostic procedures, therapeutic interventions and prevention strategies. It was posited that subsequent interaction of clinicians with this guideline could help reduce health impairments and patient burden associated with this prevalent musculoskeletal injury. The previous guideline provided evidence that the severity of ligament damage can be assessed most reliably by delayed physical examination (4-5 days post trauma). After correct diagnosis, it can be stated that even though a short time of immobilisation may be helpful in relieving pain and swelling, the patient with an acute lateral ankle ligament rupture benefits most from use of tape or a brace in combination with an exercise programme.New in this update: Participation in certain sports is associated with a heightened risk of sustaining a lateral ankle sprain. Care should be taken with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) usage after an ankle sprain. They may be used to reduce pain and swelling, but usage is not without complications and NSAIDs may suppress the natural healing process. Concerning treatment, supervised exercise-based programmes preferred over passive modalities as it stimulates the recovery of functional joint stability. Surgery should be reserved for cases that do not respond to thorough and comprehensive exercise-based treatment. For the prevention of recurrent lateral ankle sprains, ankle braces should be considered as an efficacious option.

No superior surgical treatment for secondary osteochondral defects of the talus

PURPOSE

The purpose of this systematic review was to identify the most effective surgical treatment for talar osteochondral defects after failed primary surgery.

METHODS

A literature search was conducted to find studies published from January 1996 till July 2016 using PubMed (MEDLINE), EMBASE, CDSR, DARE and CENTRAL. Two authors screened the search results separately and conducted quality assessment independently using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. Weighted success rates were calculated. Studies eligible for pooling were combined.

RESULTS

Twenty-one studies with a total of 299 patients with 301 talar OCDs that failed primary surgery were investigated. Eight studies were retrospective case series, twelve were prospective case series and there was one randomized controlled trial. Calculated success percentages varied widely and ranged from 17 to 100%. Because of the low level of evidence and the scarce number of patients, no methodologically proper meta-analysis could be performed. A simplified pooling method resulted in a calculated mean success rate of 90% [CI 82-95%] for the osteochondral autograft transfer procedure, 65% [CI 46-81%] for mosaicplasty and 55% [CI 40-70%] for the osteochondral allograft transfer procedure. There was no significant difference between classic autologous chondrocyte implantation (success rate of 59% [CI 39-77%]) and matrix-associated chondrocyte implantation (success rate of 73% [CI 56-85%]).

CONCLUSIONS

Multiple surgical treatments are used for talar OCDs after primary surgical failure. More invasive methods are administered in comparison with primary treatment. No methodologically proper meta-analysis could be performed because of the low level of evidence and the limited number of patients. It is therefore inappropriate to draw firm conclusions from the collected results. Besides an expected difference in outcome between the autograft transfer procedure and the more extensive procedures of mosaicplasty and the use of an allograft, neither a clear nor a significant difference between treatment options could be demonstrated. The need for sufficiently powered prospective investigations in a randomized comparative clinical setting remains high. This present systematic review can be used in order to inform patients about expected outcome of the different treatment methods used after failed primary surgery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

The Peroneus Quartus Muscle in a Locking Phenomenon of the Ankle: A Case Report

We present the case of a 64-year-old female who was referred to us with an unexplained clicking and locking phenomenon of the right ankle. The magnetic resonance imaging findings suggested a longitudinal tear of the peroneus brevis tendon. During tendoscopy, not only was a Raikin type B intrasheath tendon subluxation visible, but also a peroneus quartus muscle. The peroneus brevis tear was tubularized and the peroneus quartus muscle resected, which resolved the patient's complaints.

Long-term outcome of pronation-external rotation ankle fractures treated with syndesmotic screws only

BACKGROUND

There is sparse information in the literature on the outcome of Maisonneuve-type pronation-external rotation ankle fractures treated with syndesmotic screws. The primary aim of this study was to determine the long-term results of such treatment of these fractures as indicated by standardized patient-based and physician-based outcome measures. The secondary aim was to identify predictors of the outcome with use of bivariate and multivariate statistical analysis.

METHODS

Fifty patients with pronation-external rotation (predominantly Maisonneuve) fractures were treated with open reduction and internal fixation of the syndesmosis utilizing only one or two screws. The results were evaluated at a mean of twenty-one years after the fracture utilizing three standardized outcomes instruments: (1) the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM), (2) the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot scale, and (3) the Center for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression (CES-D) Scale. Osteoarthritis was graded according to the van Dijk and revised Takakura radiographic scoring systems. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify predictors of long-term outcome.

RESULTS

Forty-four (92%) of forty-eighty patients had good or excellent AOFAS scores, and forty-four (90%) of forty-nine had good or excellent FAAM scores. Arthrodesis for severe osteoarthritis was performed in two patients. Radiographic evidence of osteoarthritis was observed in twenty-four (49%) of forty-nine patients. Multivariate analysis identified pain as the most important independent predictor of long-term ankle function as indicated by the AOFAS and FAAM scores, explaining 91% and 53% of the variation in scores, respectively. Analysis of pain as the dependent variable in bivariate analyses revealed that depression, ankle range of motion, and a subsequent surgery were significantly correlated with higher pain scores. No firm conclusions could be drawn after multivariate analysis of predictors of pain.

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term functional outcomes at a mean of twenty-one years after pronation-external rotation ankle fractures treated with one or two syndesmotic screws were good to excellent in the great majority of patients despite substantial radiographic evidence of osteoarthritis in one-half of the patients. The most important predictor of long-term functional outcome was patient-reported pain rather than physician-reported function or posttraumatic osteoarthritis. There was no significant association between radiographic signs of posttraumatic osteoarthritis and perceived pain in the present series.

Long-term outcomes of 1,730 calcaneal fractures: systematic review of the literature

The objective of the present study was to review the current data on the long-term outcomes of calcaneal fractures, with special emphasis on the role of the type of treatment, surgical approach, and reduction and internal fixation. The search was limited to skeletally mature patients. Major databases were searched from 1978 to 2011 to identify studies relating to functional outcome, subjective outcome, and radiographic evaluation at least 2 years after either surgical or conservative treatment of calcaneal fractures. Of 59 initially relevant studies, 25 met our inclusion criteria. A total of 1,730 fractures were identified in 1,557 patients. The mean sample size-weighted follow-up period was 4.6 years. The findings from the present review support current clinical practice that displaced calcaneal fractures are treated surgically from 1 level I evidence study, 1 level II, and multiple studies with less than level II evidence, with open reduction and internal fixation as the method of choice. If the fracture is less complex, percutaneous treatment can be a good alternative according to current level 3 and 4 retrospective data.

The diagnosis and treatment of deltoid ligament lesions in supination-external rotation ankle fractures: a review

The supination–external rotation or Weber B type fracture exists as a stable and an unstable type. The unstable type has a medial malleolus fracture or deltoid ligament lesion in addition to a fibular fracture. The consensus is the unstable type and best treated by open reduction and internal fixation. The diagnostic process for a medial ligament lesion has been well investigated but there is no consensus as to the best method of assessment. The number of deltoid ruptures as a result of an external rotation mechanism is higher than previously believed. The derivation of the injury mechanism could provide information of the likely ligamentous lesion in several fracture patterns. The use of the Lauge-Hansen classification system in the assessment of the initial X-ray images can be helpful in predicting the involvement of the deltoid ligament but the reliability in terms of sensitivity and specificity is unknown. Clinical examination, stress radiography, magnetic resonance imaging, arthroscopy, and ultrasonography have been used to investigate medial collateral integrity in cases of ankle fractures. None of these has shown to possess the combination of being cost-effective, reliable and easy to use; currently gravity stress radiography is favoured and, in cases of doubt, arthroscopy could be of value. There is a disagreement as to the benefit of repair by suture of the deltoid ligament in cases of an acute rupture in combination with a lateral malleolar fracture. There is no evidence found for suturing but exploration is thought to be beneficial in case of interposition of medial structures.

Classification and treatment of supramalleolar deformities

BACKGROUND

Supramalleolar osteotomies are increasingly popular for addressing asymmetric arthritis of the ankle joint. Still, recommendations for the indication and the use of additional procedures remain arbitrary. We preoperatively grouped different types of asymmetric arthritis into several classes and assessed the usefulness of an algorithm based on these classifications for determining the choice of supramalleolar operative procedure and the risk factors for treatment failure.

METHODS

Ninety-two patients (94 ankles) were followed prospectively and assessed clinically and radiographically 43 months after a supramalleolar osteotomy for asymmetric arthritis of the ankle joint.

RESULTS

Significant improvement of the clinical scores was found. Postoperative reduction of radiological signs of arthritis was observed in mid-stage arthritis. Age and gender did not affect the outcome. Ten ankles failed to respond to the treatment and were converted to total ankle replacements or fused.

CONCLUSIONS

Supramalleolar osteotomies can be effective for the treatment of early and midstage asymmetric arthritis of the ankle joint. However, certain subgroups have a tendency towards a worse outcome and may require additional surgery. Therefore preoperative distinction of different subgroups is helpful for determination of additional procedures.

Effect of supramalleolar varus and valgus deformities on the tibiotalar joint: a cadaveric study

BACKGROUND

Distal tibia coronal plane malalignment predisposes the ankle joint to asymmetric load. The purpose of this cadaveric study was to quantify changes in pressure and force transfer in an ankle with a supramalleolar deformity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Seventeen cadaveric lower legs were loaded with 700 N after creating supramalleolar varus and valgus deformities. The fibula was left intact in 11 specimens and osteotomized in six. Tekscan© sensors were used to measure the tibiotalar pressure characteristics.

RESULTS

In isolated supramalleolar deformity, the center of force and peak pressure moved in an anteromedial direction for valgus and posterolateral direction for varus deformities. The change was in an anteromedial direction for varus and in a posterolateral direction for valgus deformities in specimens with an osteotomized fibula.

CONCLUSION

Two essentially different groups of varus and valgus deformities of the ankle joint need to be distinguished. The first group is an isolated frontal plane deformity and the second group is a frontal plane deformity with associated incongruency of the ankle mortise.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Our findings underline the complexity of asymmetric osteoarthritis of the ankle joint. In addition, results from this study provide useful information for future basic research on coronal plane deformity of the hindfoot and for determining appropriate surgical approaches.