Showing papers in "Foot & Ankle International in 1988"

The mechanical characteristics of the collateral ligaments of the human ankle joint.

Abstract: In the present study, the tensile mechanical properties of all of the collateral ligaments of the human ankle joint were determined, in vitro, from tensile tests conducted on 120 ligaments obtained from 20 fresh lower limbs. The ultimate load of the lateral collateral ligaments increased in an anteroposterior sequence, with the anterior fibulotalar ligament less than the fibulocalcaneal ligament and less than the posterior fibulotalar ligament. For the medial collateral ligaments, the increasing order of ultimate load was found to be tibiocalcaneal ligament, tibionavicular ligament, tibiospring ligament, posterior tibiotalar ligament. The posterior tibiotalar ligament and tibiospring ligament, so frequently neglected in the anatomical and orthopaedic literature, demonstrated the highest yield force and ultimate load of all of the collateral ligaments of the ankle. Additionally, the tibiospring ligament showed high yield and ultimate elongation properties probably related to its distal attachment to the spring ligament. The fibulocalcaneal ligament was found to have high linear elastic modulus suggesting some type of unique material properties or internal fiber organization. Knowledge of the mechanical characteristics of the ligaments of the ankle joint contributes to an understanding of their normal function, pathomechanics of injury, and their optimal surgical reparative procedure and reconstructive material. A knowledge of the normal mechanical properties of the ankle ligaments provides a data base to evaluate which of the multiplicity of present tendon graft materials has mechanical properties similar to those of the ligaments to be replaced. Those tendon grafts will be the most suitable for replacement of specific ligaments. Finally, data on the mechanical properties of these ligaments offer the possibility for evaluating any future biological or prosthetic grafts.

Subtalar Distraction Bone Block Fusion for Late Complications of Os Calcis Fractures

Abstract: The authors are presenting a new subtalar fusion technique for late complications of calcaneus fractures. These complications include pain, shoe wear difficulties, and foot deformity. The complex pathology includes incongruous subtalar joint, loss of calcaneal body height, and decreased lateral talocalcaneal angle. The latter two factors can result in tibiotalar neck impingement, a deformity that has received little attention in the literature. The subtalar fusion technique involves distraction of the subtalar joint, insertion of a bone block, and rigid screw fixation. The distraction allows correction of the talocalcaneal relationship and regains lost hindfoot height. The clinical series involved 16 feet with an average follow-up of 19 months. Results were satisfactory in 13 feet. Pre- and postoperative radiographic analysis for tibiotalar impingement, lateral talocalcaneal angle, and talonavicular subluxation was performed, with improvement to a normal range seen in the cases analyzed. The results are encouraging but should be considered preliminary based on the length of follow-up.

New Jersey Low Contact Stress Total Ankle Replacement: Biomechanical Rationale and Review of 23 Cementless Cases

Abstract: A congruent contact, unconstrained, multiaxial ankle replacement has been developed for use without cement. A talar onlay component with a trochlear surface and central fixation fin uses a cylindrical articulating axis that reproduces the lateral talar curvature. A tibial inlay component with a 7 degree anteriorly inclined short fixation stem uses a flat loading plate, recessed anatomically into the distal tibia to distribute tibial loads to the ankle joint. For both components, made of cast cobalt-chromium-molybdenum, a 275-micron pore-size, sintered-bead, porous coating is used to allow tissue ingrowth stabilization. A congruent ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene bearing is inserted between the metallic implants. Its upper surface is flat, whereas its lower surface conforms to the trochlear surface, thereby providing unconstrained, sliding cylindrical motion with low contact stress on the bearing surfaces. Contact pressure and collateral ligaments maintain ankle stability during both static and dynamic loading conditions. Clinically, 23 total ankle arthroplasties were performed in 21 patients. The follow-up period ranged from 24 months to 64 months with a mean of 35.3 months. Diagnoses included rheumatoid arthritis, 6 patients (26.1%); osteoarthritis, 4 patients (17.4%); post-traumatic arthritis, 10 patients (43.5%); avascular necrosis of the talus, 2 patients (8.7%), and painful ankle fusion, 1 patient (4.3%). Pain was the primary reason for surgery in all cases. Postoperatively, 87% of ankles had no pain or, at most, mild pain. Postoperative complications included poor wound healing in four ankles, reflex sympathetic dystrophy in two ankles, deep infection in one ankle, and one bearing subluxation. No ankle replacements were removed and no fusions were performed for failed implants, although one bearing was exchanged without disrupting the metallic elements. In this report, the suggestion is made that total ankle arthroplasty may have an improved application in various arthritis disorders when used with biologic fixation and unconstrained mobile bearings.

Tibial nerve branching in the tarsal tunnel.

Abstract: Tarsal tunnel syndrome is an infrequent and probably underdiagnosed clinical condition. Diagnosis and treatment depend on understanding the tibial branching pattern within the tarsal tunnel. A total of 68 foot dissections were performed. Bifurcation into the medial and lateral plantar nerves occurred within the tunnel in 93% and proximal in 7%. Proximal bifurcation may predispose to tarsal tunnel syndrome, and its infrequent occurrence correlates with the infrequent clinical diagnosis. Nine different calcaneal branching patterns were noted; they provide an anatomical explanation for heel sparing. An understanding of anatomic variations should aid in providing complete surgical release and in avoiding accidental heel denervations.

Strain in the lateral ligaments of the ankle

Abstract: Strain was measured in the normal anterior talofibular ligament (ATF) and the calcaneofibular ligament (CF) using Hall effect strain transducers in five cadaveric ankles. These measurements were made in both ligaments with the ankle in neutral position and with the foot moving from 10 degrees dorsiflexion to 40 degrees plantarflexion in an apparatus that permits physiologic motion. The ankle ligaments were then tested with the foot placed in six different positions that combined supination, pronation, external rotation, and internal rotation. In the neutral position, through a range of motion of 10 degrees dorsiflexion to 40 degrees plantarflexion, the anterior talofibular ligament underwent an increasing strain of 3.3%. No significant strain increase was found with internal rotation. The only significant difference from the strains at the neutral position was in external rotation, which decreased strain 1.9%. In all positions, increased strain occurred with increased plantarflexion. The calcaneofibular ligament was essentially isometric in the neutral position throughout the flexion arc. The calcaneofibular ligament strain was significantly increased by supination and external rotation. However, with increasing plantarflexion in these positions, the strain in the calcaneofibular ligament decreased. Therefore, plantarflexion has a relaxing effect on the calcaneofibular ligament. Thus, the anterior talofibular and calcaneofibular ligaments are synergistic, such that when one ligament is relaxed, the other is strained and vice versa.

Treatment of Diabetic Foot Infections: Wagner Classification, Therapy, and Outcome

Abstract: A total of 850 cases of septic diabetic foot infections were reviewed in 355 patients. Age, sex, other chronic diseases, site, etiology, Wagner grade, treatment, and results were analyzed. One third of the patients were in their sixth decade of life. There were 180 women and 175 men. Chronic diseases included hypertension, congestive heart disease, and renal failure. Staphylococcus aureus was the most common bacteria. Treatment was considered to meet protocol standards if Wagner's algorithms and infectious disease principles were followed. Thirty-nine Wagner grade 0 infections were seen: only one was not treated appropriately. Eighty-eight percent treated per protocol healed and the one not treated appropriately failed. In grade 1, 79% of the 154 evaluable patients were treated appropriately with a 86% success rate versus a 53% success rate for those not treated per protocol. Of three quarters of the 64 patients with grade 2 infections treated according to protocol, 73% healed. One of those in grade 2 who was not treated according to protocol healed. In grade 3, 64% of the 251 patients were treated per protocol with a 79% success rate versus a 12% success rate for those who were not treated per protocol. Most of the 189 patients with grade 4 cases were treated according to protocol with 88% success; the 20 not treated per protocol had a 15% success rate. Thirty of the 32 grade 5 patients were treated per protocol and all but one healed. Protocol therapy had a statistically significant effect by chi 2 test in the treatment of all groups.

Total ankle arthroplasty in rheumatoid arthritis: a long-term follow-up study.

Abstract: Patients with rheumatoid arthritis who had undergone total ankle arthroplasty and had a minimum of 2 yr follow-up were studied. Of the original 21 patients 17 were available for review. Twenty-three ankle replacements with an average follow-up of 5.6 yr were studied. On follow-up 2 ankles were rated excellent, 13 were rated good, 4 were rated fair, and 4 were rated poor. Thus, 83% were satisfactory on follow-up. Radiographic analysis revealed migration and settling of the talar component in 14 of 15 cases. Bone cement radiolucencies were found in 14 of 15 cases. Bone cement radiolucencies were found in 14 of 15 tibial components with tilting in 12 of these components. The postoperative position of the implant did not correlate with the development of radiolucencies or migration of the implant.

Relationship Between Adolescent Bunions and Flatfeet

Abstract: Pes planus has been suggested as a factor in the development of bunions in adolescents. This study objectively evaluated the radiographs of 36 adolescents with 66 hallux valgus deformities for the presence of associated flatfeet. The bunion deformity in these adolescents was also characterized. Only 26.6% of these adolescents had an increased intermetatarsal angle and 8.1% an abnormal metatarsus varus angle as compared with the published norms. Measurements of pes planus including talar pitch, calcaneal plantar angle, dorsoplantar talonavicular angle, and lateral talocalcaneal angle showed an incidence of flatfeet in adolescents with bunions that was 8 to 24 times greater than expected.

Experimental decompression of the fascial compartments of the foot--the basis for fasciotomy in acute compartment syndromes

Abstract: Surgical decompression of the foot by fasciotomy is the only effective means of preventing the late consequences of a compartment syndrome i.e., myoneural ischemia. In this study, a slit catheter system was used to monitor the compartment pressures in experimentally induced compartment syndromes of the foot. The ease and rate of decompressing the intracompartmental pressures via a double incision dorsal approach versus a medial longitudinal approach were compared in 40 paired fresh cadaver specimens. In both methods, intracompartmental pressure is satisfactorily decompressed. However, it takes longer after effective fasciotomies for pressures to normalize via the dorsal approach (11 min versus 1 min; P less than 0.01). The double incision dorsal approach is easier to perform and may be the method of choice for fasciotomy associated with fractures of the forefoot requiring internal fixation.

Silicone implant arthroplasty for second metatarsophalangeal joint disorders with and without hallux valgus deformities.

Abstract: Subluxation or dislocation of the second metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ) is usually associated with a hammertoe deformity and, frequently, with a significant hallux valgus deformity. Although the joint itself may be painful, there is also pain in the hammertoe deformity, especially when the patient is wearing closed shoes. A painful intractable plantar keratosis is usually present. We reviewed all of our patients with second MTPJ subluxation or dislocation, in whom a double-stem silicone implant had been used to relocate the joint. In 31 feet of 28 patients, 32 implants were used. All but six feet with advanced degenerative joint disease secondary to Freiberg's infraction had severe associated forefoot pathology that necessitated surgical correction. Several feet had previous bunion operations as well as operations on the second toe. In addition to the second toe, we performed hallux valgus corrections in 23 feet, seven of which were revision procedures. At an average follow-up time of 37 months, good results were seen in 20 feet (63%), good results with reservations in eight feet (25%), and failure in four feet (12%). Transfer metatarsalgia was the most frequent complication. The implants remained stable, and in only one was there a suspected fracture. More optimum results might have been achieved had there been better correction of the hallux valgus deformities, more frequent correction of the hammertoe deformity, and less resection of the second metatarsal head. These patients with pathology usually involving both the first and second MTPJ are difficult to treat, therefore. Their results are less predictable and not as favorable as those achieved for patients with isolated similar deformities.

Objective Evaluation of Insert Material for Diabetic and Athletic Footwear

Abstract: Five of the most commonly used materials for shoe inserts (soft Plastazote, medium Pelite, PPT, Spenco, and Sorbothane) were objectively evaluated in the laboratory to characterize their behavior in the following three specific functions that correspond to clinical use: (1) the effect on the materials of repeated compression. (2) the effect of a combination of repetitive shear and compression. (3) the force-distribution (force-attenuation) properties of these materials, both when new and after repeated compression. The last function represents a model for relief of pressure beneath plantar bony prominences, a topic of special concern for the insensitive foot. All materials were effective in reducing transmitted force over the simulated bony prominence with a rank order of effectiveness. Other factors considered were: amount and rate of permanent deformation offset by considerations of enhanced moldability when comparing the neoprene and urethane materials with the polyethylene foams. The ideal insert represents a combination of material to achieve both durability and moldability.

Keller Arthroplasty in Combination with Resection Arthroplasty of the Lesser Metatarsophalangeal Joints in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Abstract: We reviewed the results of the Keller arthroplasty in combination with resection arthroplasty of the forefoot in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Of the 29 patients (49 feet) in the series, 20 had involvement of both feet and nine had involvement of a single foot. The average age of the patients was 55.4 years, and the average follow-up period was 4.9 years. All feet had resection of the lesser metatarsal heads, resection of the base of the proximal phalanges of the lesser toe, and a Keller arthroplasty of the first metatarsophalangeal joint. The results were satisfactory in 16 feet, satisfactory with some reservations in 21 feet, satisfactory with major reservations in seven feet, and unsatisfactory in five feet. For 40 of the 49 feet (82%), the patients stated that they would repeat the procedure, knowing the results achieved. The major causes of patient reservations and lack of satisfaction were return of the hallux valgus deformity and pain (53%), forefoot instability (27%), and continuing metatarsalgia (20%). Resection arthroplasty of the lesser metatarsophalangeal joints of the forefoot in rheumatoid disease is a satisfactory procedure. When used in combination with Keller resection arthroplasty of the first metatarsophalangeal joint, however, an increased number of unsatisfactory results occur, attributable to returning pain and deformity of that joint.

Ankle Dislocation without Fracture

Abstract: Dislocation of the ankle without accompanying malleolar fracture has been regarded as a rare lesion, with few cases reported in the literature. To date, there has been no precedent for accurate descriptions of the mechanisms, optimum treatment, and long-term prognosis of this injury. Our goal was to evaluate these variables by a retrospective review of cases from our institution. We identified eight patients who had sustained ankle dislocation without fracture and were treated at the University of Iowa during the period 1958 to 1986. We interviewed and examined each patient and obtained ankle radiographs at an average of 11.5 years postinjury (range 2 to 24 years). After analyzing our cases and other reported in the literature, we have found that this injury is most common in young people (average age 31 years, range 10 to 73 years) and males (72%), and occurs most frequently in falls, motor vehicle accidents, and sports (86%). Medial displacement occurs most frequently (27%). Disruption of the mortise occurs variably. The most likely mechanism appears to be anterior or posterior extrusion of the talus from the mortise secondary to a force applied to the plantarflexed foot. Final displacement is then determined by the position of the foot and the direction of the force applied. Physical findings are commensurate with the deformity. Neurovascular compromise is uncommon (10%). Closed reduction is almost invariably accomplished easily unless the deformity is accompanied by posterior tibiofibular dislocation. Optimum treatment appears to be immobilization in a short leg cast for 6 weeks with no weightbearing for the first 3 weeks. Long-term follow-up revealed the following. Results were all good to excellent considering the following variables: return to work and sports activities, pain, instability, swelling, and ankle and subtalar joint motion. No patient reported instability and all returned to work and sports participation. We noted mild pain and swelling that was not severe enough to require medication in 25% of patients. Range of motion was normal in all but four patients; none of these lacked more than 10 degrees of motion in any plane. Radiographic abnormalities consisted of minor ligamentous or capsular calcification in all patients, small osteophytes in four patients, and minimal joint space narrowing in one patient. No patient had normal radiographs.

Basal osteotomy of the first metatarsal for the correction of metatarsus primus varus associated with hallux valgus.

Abstract: At the University of Vienna Department of Orthopaedics, 26 feet in 21 patients were treated with a basal osteotomy for hallux valgus associated with metatarsus primus varus. In 85% of the cases, a satisfactory result was achieved. Critical analysis revealed shortening of the first metatarsal and elevation of its head, which resulted in excess lateral straining of the foot and metatarsalgia. In 15 cases, osteoarthritis in the metatarsocuneiform joint was also increased. Given these results, an osteotomy that prevents shortening of the first metatarsal and elevation of the head of the first metatarsal, or one that takes these facts into account, seems ideal.

Metastatic Tumors of the Foot and Ankle

Abstract: In a review of the Mayo Clinic files, 17 biopsy-proven cases of metastatic tumors of the foot and ankle were found; 4 additional cases were considered to have metastatic disease on the basis of clinical and radiographic evidence but no histological confirmation was available. Lung, kidney, and colon were the most common sites of the primary tumors. The patients survived as long as 28 months after discovery of the metastasis. Treatment consisted of individualized combinations of orthotics, surgery, and radiotherapy to maintain mobility. In 9 of these 17 cases, no primary lesion was identified at the time the metastasis was diagnosed. Metastatic tumors of the foot present special problems in diagnosis and management.

Painful heel syndrome: radiographic and treatment assessment.

Abstract: From July 1980 to January 1986, 170 patients who had unilateral heel pain were examined, x-ray filmed, and treated in a similar fashion. Radiographs of painful and nonpainful heels were measured. There was a statistically significant increased thickness of the heel fat pad and subfascial area compared with that of the control subject (the nonpainful side). A tightness of the Achilles tendon and a new sign, which the authors are designating as the “saddle” sign, were other prominent features. A treatment program of stretching exercises and walking seemed to be effective in relief of symptoms.

Recurrent pain following interdigital neurectomy--a plantar approach.

Abstract: Thirty patients with 39 recurrent interdigital neuromas were evaluated to determine the success of subsequent surgery. Two surgical techniques were used to resect the nerve over a 2.5-year period and their results were compared. One consisted of exposure through the previous dorsal incision and the other of exposure through a transverse plantar incision proximal to the metatarsal heads. Overall results revealed significant improvement for greater than 80% of patients after their final operation. Less than 50% gained complete relief, however, and 58% experienced persistent discomfort in certain types of shoes. The plantar approach offers a simplified, less traumatic exposure of the nerve in a more proximal location. No healing problems were encountered with the proximal plantar incision.

Arthroscopic Treatment of Sports-Related Anterior Osteophytes in the Ankle

Abstract: Osteophytes on the anterior aspect of the tibia and anterior talus are common in athletes such as dancers, runners, and high jumpers who impact with quick and forceful dorsiflexion to this area. This pathology is often confirmed easily on lateral x-ray films. Excision, debridement, and/or abrasion arthroplasty can be performed arthroscopically to remove osteophytic bone. The joint space is easily approached and managed using small joint or even regular-sized arthroscopic instruments. Care is taken to reshape the anterior tibia and/or talus to its original contour, thus avoiding impingement of the joint space and scuffing of adjacent articular cartilage. Proper abrasion depths and punch lesions may be needed to expose bleeding capillary bone. This allows a regeneration of a fibrocartilage covering that not only decreases pain but also permits a return to functional and athletic activities. Postoperative treatment, including physical therapy, is described. Three case studies are presented that adequately demonstrate this problem, along with the corrective measures taken. Each case concludes with a brief summary of follow-up.

Hypermobility in Hallux Valgus

Abstract: Hypermobility has been implicated as one of the etiological components in common foot problems such as hallux valgus but has not been substantiated by experimental data. Twenty patients with symptomatic untreated hallux valgus and 20 controls were evaluated with a simple hypermobility scoring system. A statistically significant correlation was found to reveal that female patients aged 20 to 40 yr with symptomatic hallux valgus have a mild generalized hypermobility when compared to a similar group of control patients. The presence of such ligamentous laxity would seem to support the need for bony correction in such patients as soft tissue procedures would have a greater propensity for malalignment due to the underlying hypermobility in combination with everyday environmental stresses of trauma and overuse.

Computed tomography scan and magnetic resonance imaging of ankle tendons: an overview.

Abstract: CT and MRI are both effective in the diagnosis of ankle tendon injuries. MRI is the preferred study, however, because of its superior soft tissue contrast resolution, multiplanar capabilities, lack of beam hardening artifacts, and lack of ionizing radiation. CT can serve as an excellent substitute when financial considerations and availability preclude the use of MRI. CT is also superior in evaluating bony abnormalities associated with tendon injuries.

Treatment of Metatarsalgia by Sliding Distal Metatarsal Osteotomy

Abstract: A consecutive series of 113 patients who had distal sliding metatarsal osteotomy performed between 1976 and 1983 at Winford Orthopaedic Hospital were reviewed. All patients originally had symptoms and signs of pressure metatarsalgia. A total of 124 feet in 94 patients were available for assessment. Review was performed using a symptomatic scoring system, clinical examination, AP and lateral standing radiographs, and walking foot pressure studies obtained from a Harris-Beath mat. The mean follow-up period was 3 years and 4 months (range nine to 102 months). Symptomatically, 58 feet (47%) were rated as good, 43 (34%) as fair, and 23 (19%) as poor. Eighteen feet (14%) had required revision procedures prior to the time of review because of persistent symptoms. Persistent tender prominence of one or more metatarsal heads associated with plantar callosities was seen in 49 feet (40%). Results were significantly worse in patients older than 65 years of age, when first and fifth metatarsal osteotomies were perform...

Calcaneal Fractures: Three-dimensional Treatment*

Abstract: A series of 22 calcaneal fractures operated over 4 yr is presented. Radiographic evaluation of these fractures using axial, lateral, anteroposterior, and oblique medial projection (Broden's view) with varying tube angulation toward the head and computerized axial tomography in two planes, coronal and transverse, were done. This repeatedly demonstrated intra-articular splitting fractures along the axis of the os calcis through the posterior facet, extending to the calcaneocuboid joint. These fractures were surgically reduced as described by McReynolds with sequential medial and lateral approaches. Intraoperative X-rays demonstrate the three-dimensional nature of this injury. Bohler's angle may be reconstituted with apparent reduction of the posterior facet when projected laterally; however, Broden's and axial views show persistent widening and split of the posterior facet. The 22 patients have been followed from 12 to 46 mo. All have heels of normal width and wear standard shoes. The first two cases, done only medially, have less than anatomic reconstruction of the subtalar joint. Functional results have been encouraging. Of six active duty members so treated, three returned to full duty, a second who was medically retired as a result of other injuries had minimal heel problems, and fifth had a contralateral open pilon fracture which hampers him, and the sixth patient is now 4 mo postbilateral calcaneal fractures with return to duty anticipated. Most of the 22 have some decrease in subtalar motion without apparent gait abnormality. No cases of medial or lateral impingement or tendinitis are present. Fractures of the calcaneus are amendable to open reduction and internal fixation. Sequential medial and anterolateral exposure allow anatomic reconstruction in three dimensions, avoiding pitfalls of two-dimensional analysis and treatment.

Tarsal coalition: a review of the literature and presentation of 13 cases.

Abstract: Tarsal coalition refers to the condition that exists when there is absent or restricted movement between two or more of the bones of the hindfoot. The usual cause of the restricted movement is a congenital abnormality with a fibrous (syndesmosis), cartilagenous (synchondrosis), or bony (synostosis) union between the adjoining involved bones. The commonest site of these congenital anomalous attachments are reported in the literature as being located at the calcaneonavicular, the talocalcaneal, and, less commonly, the talonavicular areas. Limited movement in the hindfoot can also result from trauma, arthritis, tumor, or injury involving those joints in the foot. The congenital form may often go unrecognized until such time as a twist or sprain of the ankle or foot leads to its diagnosis. On the other hand, the condition may go unrecognized as a cause for chronic pain or discomfort in the hindfoot or ankle. In this article, a series of 13 feet in 11 patients with this condition that have been noted in the sports medicine clinic at the University of Arizona Health Sciences Center during the past 8 years is described. A detailed historical, clinical, and biomechanical account is also included.

Ingrown Toenail: Results of Surgical Treatment*:

Abstract: When an ingrown toenail is unresponsive to simple treatment methods, surgical treatment options are available. At our institution, 100 patients with 142 affected toes were surgically treated by one...

Soft tissue tumors of the foot and ankle.

Abstract: Seven patients with malignant soft tissue tumors of the foot and ankle were retrospectively reviewed. Emphasis was placed on the value of various diagnostic modalities used preoperatively for staging and the adequacy of treatment rendered using current tumor surgery principles. The malignant tumors included synovial cell sarcoma (four), clear cell sarcoma (one), fibrosarcoma (one), and melanoma (one). Surgical management of the malignant lesions included intracapsular excision, marginal excision, wide excision, and radical amputation. Preoperative diagnostic and staging studies that were found to be helpful include ultrasonography, xeroradiography, triple-phase bone scan, and CT and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. Surgical guidelines include the use of longitudinal skin incisions to obtain excisional biopsies of smaller lesions, keeping the tourniquet inflated until either a benign diagnosis is made or until the definitive procedure is performed. Wide excision or partial foot versus radical amputation may be required depending on the size, location, and extent of malignant soft tissue sarcomas.

Plantar Excision of Primary Interdigital Neuromas

Abstract: A retrospective study was done of 51 patients (6 males and 45 females) who had 57 primary interdigital neurectomies performed through a plantar incision. The surgical technique is described. The results were divided into three categories, in which 26 feet were judged excellent, 27 feet rated good, and 4 feet were classed as poor. The author concludes that the plantar approach is technically simple and results in a comfortable scar. Poor results occurred in 4 of 57 feet. This failure rate compares favorably with those failure rates in reported series done through a dorsal incision. In the author's opinion, the ability to do a more proximal resection of the nerve--as compared with the dorsal approach--is responsible for the higher rate of success with this method.

Combined anteroposterior tibial tendon transfer in post-traumatic peroneal palsy.

Abstract: Posterior tibial tendon transfer to the dorsum of the foot for correction of traumatic paralytic peroneal palsy is a well-accepted treatment option. A careful review of the literature reveals that the results of treatment in this specific patient group are not always encouraging. This paper reports the results of a combined anteroposterior tibial tendon transfer in nine patients with traumatic paralytic peroneal palsy who initially used an ankle-foot orthosis to ambulate. Percutaneous tendo achillis lengthening to correct fixed ankle equinus was performed in six of the patients. At a minimal 24-mo follow-up (range, 24–56), all nine patients were brace free and subjectively felt that the surgery was successful. While the surgery was initially planned to provide an active “tenodesis” of the ankle to resist passive ankle equinus during swing phase of gait, walking electromyography revealed “retraining” of the transferred posterior tibial muscle to function as an active swing-phase ankle dorsiflexor muscle in...

Unrecognized laceration of tibialis anterior tendon: a case report.

Abstract: Surgical exploration of the traumatic wound is always important to allow full definition of the extent of injury. The authors report a case of a lacerated tibialis anterior tendon that was initially overlooked 8 years prior to presentation.

Musculoskeletal Demands on Flamenco Dancers: A Clinical and Biomechanical Study

Abstract: The flamenco dancer acts on the floor like a drummer. The percussive footwork and vibration patterns created during dancing impose unusual demands on the musculoskeletal system. This study investigated the clinical and biomechanical aspects of this task. Using the electrodynogram and skin-mounted accelerometers, foot pressures as well as hip and knee vibrations were recorded in 10 female dancers after a thorough clinical evaluation. A health questionnaire was also distributed to 29 dancers. Foot pressures and acceleration data reveal the percussive nature of the dance. Some clinical findings, like calluses, are related to pressure distribution. Urogenital disorders, as well as back and neck pain, may be related to the vibrations generated by the flamenco dance form. The hip joint seems to absorb most of the impacts. "Vibration-pressure" diagrams are suggested as a useful tool for evaluating a dancer's biomechanical behavior, as well as the effect of floors and footwear on this behavior.

The influence of dorsiflexion in the treatment of severe ankle sprains: an anatomical study.

Abstract: Cadaver studies were performed to examine the applicability of ankle position to the treatment of ruptured fibulo-collateral ligaments. Nonembalmed cadaver specimens were studied with anterior drawer and talar tilt stresses before and after division of the ligaments to simulate the sprained ankle. Dorsiflexion completely reduced the anteriorly subluxed talus and apposed the ends of the anterior talofibular ligament in specimens with divided lateral collateral ligaments. The dorsiflexion angle required to reduce the unstable ankle varied from 5° to 15°. These studies suggest that positioning the ankle in dorsiflexion instead of neutral or plantar flexion may have advantages in promoting a stable ankle if immobilization is chosen for treating a grade III sprain.