Comparison of Computed Tomography, Traction, and Inverted Grayscale Radiographs for Understanding Pilon Fracture Morphology

2021 ◽  
pp. 107110072110492
Author(s):  
Gokay Eken ◽  
Abdulhamit Misir

Background: There have been no studies evaluating the usefulness of grayscale radiographs in extremity fractures. We aimed to compare the ability and reliability of traction radiographs vs traction grayscale inversion radiographs to detect fracture fragment and comminution zones in comminuted tibia pilon fractures. Methods: Plain radiographs and grayscale inversion images of 60 patients with Orthopaedic Trauma Association/AO Foundation type C3 fracture were evaluated by 20 observers (15 orthopedic surgeons and 5 radiologists) after traction had been applied. The anterolateral, posterolateral, and medial malleolar fragments, as well as the lateral, central, and medial column comminution zones, were identified by all physicians. Computed tomography scan images were used as the “gold standard” against which plain radiographs and grayscale inversion image interpretation were measured. Intra- and interobserver reliability and correct identification of fracture fragments and comminution zones were evaluated. Results: The interobserver reliability for 3 of the fracture fragments and comminution zones on the traction plain radiographs was moderate, whereas it was substantial on traction grayscale inversion radiographs. The lateral comminution zones ( P = .001) and presence or absence of posterolateral fragments ( P < .001) were significantly better identified in grayscale inversion radiographs compared to standard radiographs. Conclusion: After traction was applied, we found grayscale inversion radiographs are superior to plain radiographs in the identification of posterolateral fragment and lateral zone of comminution in comminuted intraarticular pilon fractures. Level of Evidence: III, Retrospective Case Series.

2012 ◽  
Vol 33 (3) ◽  
pp. 220-225 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jorge Filippi ◽  
Mark S. Myerson ◽  
Mark W. Scioli ◽  
Bryan Dale Den Hartog ◽  
David B. Kay ◽  
...  

Background: Several methods for fixation have been described for midfoot arthrodesis. Multi-joint arthrodesis at this level can be challenging because of bone loss and deformity, making it difficult to obtain a stable construct. We present the results of a novel hybrid plating system that incorporates locked and non-locked compression screws for multi-joint arthrodesis of the midfoot. Method: A retrospective multicenter review of patients undergoing multi-joint arthrodesis with hybrid plating of the midfoot was performed to evaluate the time to radiographic arthrodesis. Hybrid plating was defined as a construct that incorporates locked and non-locked compression screws. Neuropathy was the only exclusion criteria. Radiographic arthrodesis was defined as bridging bone on one of the three standard foot radiographs in the absence of a joint gap on the other views, or by 50% or greater bridging bone on computed tomography. Etiology of the arthritis, presurgical comorbidities, body mass index, functional level and postoperative complications were evaluated. Results: Seventy-two patients were evaluated, and arthrodesis was obtained in 67 patients at 6 weeks in 27 patients, 9 weeks in 26, 12 weeks in 11, and at 16 weeks in three. In five patients at least one of the joints were not fused at 16 weeks and were considered a nonunion. Complications were present in 12 patients (17%). Conclusions: The healing rate and time to arthrodesis compared favorably to similar published studies. Based on these results, hybrid plating was a reliable and consistent alternative for fixation in midfoot arthrodesis, especially in multi-joint disease. Level of Evidence: IV; Retrospective Case Series


2021 ◽  
pp. 107110072110353
Author(s):  
Ali-Asgar Najefi ◽  
Mohammad Khalid Alsafi ◽  
Karan Malhotra ◽  
Shelain Patel ◽  
Nicholas Cullen ◽  
...  

Background: Weightbearing computed tomography (WBCT) can be used to assess alignment and rotation of the first metatarsal. It is unknown whether these measures remain consistent on sequential WBCTs in the same patient when a patient’s standing position may be different. The aim of this study was to establish the repeatability (test-retest) of measurements of first metatarsal alignment and rotation in patients without forefoot pathology on WBCT. Methods: We retrospectively identified 42 feet in 26 patients with sequential WBCT studies less than 12 months apart. Patients with surgery between scans, previous forefoot surgery or hallux rigidus were excluded. Hallux valgus angle (HVA) and intermetatarsal angle (IMA) were measured using digitally reconstructed radiographs. Two methods of calculating metatarsal rotation (metatarsal pronation angle [MPA] and alpha angle) were measured on standardized coronal CT slices. Interobserver agreement and test-retest repeatability were assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). Standard error of measurement (SEM) and minimally detectable change (MDC95) were calculated. Results: Interobserver agreement was excellent for HVA and IMA (ICC 0.96 and 0.90, respectively) and was good for MPA and alpha angle (ICC 0.81 and 0.80, respectively). There was excellent test-retest repeatability for HVA (ICC=0.90) and good test-retest repeatability for IMA (ICC=0.77). There was excellent test-retest repeatability for MPA (ICC=0.91) and good test-retest repeatability for alpha angle (ICC=0.87). The MDC95 was 4.6 degrees for MPA and 6.1 degrees for alpha angle. Five percent of patients had a difference outside of the MDC95 for the alpha angle, compared with 2% for the MPA. Conclusion: Measurements of first metatarsal alignment and rotation are reliable between assessors and repeatable between sequential WBCTs in patients without forefoot pathology. Subtle differences in patient positioning during image acquisition do not significantly affect measurements, supporting the validity of this method of assessment in longitudinal patient care. Level of Evidence: Level IV, retrospective case series.


2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lujie Xu ◽  
Wensong Ye ◽  
Haibing Li ◽  
Jingfang Xu ◽  
Weiwei Zhu ◽  
...  

Abstract Background Medial epicondyle fracture comprises a considerable proportion of pediatric elbow injury. The fracture fragment is typically pulled distally by the muscle and the ligament. This study aims to suggest proper recognition of a subset of the fracture that differs from its usual presentation. Methods A retrospective case study was conducted during 2011–2016. Of those cases, a subset was identified as proximally displaced (atypical) ones. Distinctive radiologic images, as well as the injury causes, demographic data, clinical signs, treatment ways, and final follow-ups regarding these atypical ones, were presented and discussed. The fracture mechanism was carefully inferred from former theories and the operative findings, and a tentative management strategy was suggested. Results Seven out of 112 cases were distinguished as the atypical, which represents 6.25% of the whole sample. Injury causes were all direct or combined direct/indirect force injuries instead of indirect force mostly seen in the typical. Five were operated while two nonoperatively treated. Operated cases revealed stripping of medial epicondyle from its surrounding periosteum/muscle origin or even cartilage. The fracture fragment was either pulled by proximal periosteum or even proximally dissociated. The outcomes of those atypical were mostly acceptable despite some minor defects. Conclusion The proximally displaced cases do constitute a portion of medial humeral epicondyle fracture in children. As well as its skeletal manifestation, awareness of its injury mechanism and soft tissue damage is required. Precise restoration of its anatomical structure might be vital for its treatment. Further scientific work is needed regarding its mechanism and management. Level of evidence: Level 4.


Author(s):  
Gabriele Colo’ ◽  
Mattia Alessio Mazzola ◽  
Giulio Pilone ◽  
Giacomo Dagnino ◽  
Lamberto Felli

Abstract The aim of this study is to evaluate the results of patients underwent lateral open wedge calcaneus osteotomy with bony allograft augmentation combined with tibialis posterior and tibialis anterior tenodesis. Twenty-two patients underwent adult-acquired flatfoot deformity were retrospectively evaluated with a minimum 2-year follow-up. Radiographic preoperative and final comparison of tibio-calcaneal angle, talo–first metatarsal and calcaneal pitch angles have been performed. The Visual Analog Scale, American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Score, the Foot and Ankle Disability Index and the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure were used for subjective and functional assessment. The instrumental range of motion has been also assessed at latest follow-up evaluation and compared with preoperative value. There was a significant improvement of final mean values of clinical scores (p < 0.001). Nineteen out of 22 (86.4%) patients resulted very satisfied or satisfied for the clinical result. There was a significant improvement of the radiographic parameters (p < 0.001). There were no differences between preoperative and final values of range of motion. One failure occurred 7 years after surgery. Adult-acquired flatfoot deformity correction demonstrated good mid-term results and low recurrence and complications rate. Level of evidence Level 4, retrospective case series.


2021 ◽  
pp. 107110072110060
Author(s):  
Michael F. Githens ◽  
Malcolm R. DeBaun ◽  
Kimberly A Jacobsen ◽  
Hunter Ross ◽  
Reza Firoozabadi ◽  
...  

Background: Supination-adduction (SAD) type II ankle fractures can have medial tibial plafond and talar body impaction. Factors associated with the development of posttraumatic arthritis can be intrinsic to the injury pattern or mitigated by the surgeon. We hypothesize that plafond malreducton and talar body impaction is associated with early posttraumatic arthrosis. Methods: A retrospective cohort of skeletally mature patients with SAD ankle fractures at 2 level 1 academic trauma centers who underwent operative fixation were identified. Patients with a minimum of 1-year follow-up were included. The presence of articular impaction identified on CT scan was recorded and the quality of reduction on final intraoperative radiographs was assessed. The primary outcome was radiographic ankle arthrosis (Kellgren-Lawrence 3 or 4), and postoperative complications were documented. Results: A total of 175 SAD ankle fractures were identified during a 10-year period; 79 patients with 1-year follow-up met inclusion criteria. The majority of injuries resulted from a high-energy mechanism. Articular impaction was present in 73% of injuries, and 23% of all patients had radiographic arthrosis (Kellgren-Lawrence 3 or 4) at final follow-up. Articular malreduction, defined by either a gap or step >2 mm, was significantly associated with development of arthrosis. Early treatment failure, infection, and nonunion was rare in this series. Conclusion: Malreduction of articular impaction in SAD ankle fractures is associated with early posttraumatic arthrosis. Recognition and anatomic restoration with stable fixation of articular impaction appears to mitigate risk of posttraumatic arthrosis. Investigations correlating postoperative and long-term radiographic findings to patient-reported outcomes after operative treatment of SAD ankle fractures are warranted. Level of Evidence: Level IV, retrospective case series.


2019 ◽  
Vol 41 (2) ◽  
pp. 187-192
Author(s):  
Ricardo E. Colberg ◽  
Monte Ketchum ◽  
Avani Javer ◽  
Monika Drogosz ◽  
Melissa Gomez ◽  
...  

Background: Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain in adults. Multiple conservative treatment plans exist; however, some cases do not obtain significant clinical improvement with conservative treatment and require further intervention. This retrospective case study evaluated the success rate of percutaneous plantar fasciotomy and confounding comorbidities that negatively affect outcomes. Methods: A series of 41 patients treated with percutaneous plantar fasciotomy using the Topaz EZ microdebrider coblation wand were invited to participate in this retrospective follow-up study, and 88% ( N = 36) participated. A limited chart review was completed and the patients answered a survey with the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain and the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) questionnaire. Average outcomes were calculated and 45 variables were analyzed to determine if they were statistically significant confounders. Patients had symptoms for an average of 3 years before the procedure and were contacted for follow-up at an average of 14 months after the procedure. Results: The average VAS for pain score was 1.3 ± 1.8 and the average FAAM score was 92 ± 15. Eighty-nine percent of patients had a successful outcome, defined as FAAM greater than 75. In addition, patients at 18 months postprocedure reported complete or near-complete resolution of symptoms with an FAAM score greater than 97. Concurrent foot pathologies (eg, tarsal tunnel syndrome), oral steroid treatment prior to the procedure, and immobilization with a boot prior to the procedure were statistically significant negative confounders ( P < .05). Being an athlete was a positive confounder ( P = .02). Conclusion: Percutaneous plantar fasciotomy using a microdebrider coblation was an effective treatment for plantar fasciitis, particularly without concurrent foot pathology, with a low risk of complications. Level of Evidence: Level IV, retrospective case series.


2018 ◽  
Vol 40 (1) ◽  
pp. 98-104 ◽  
Author(s):  
Johanna Marie Richey ◽  
Miranda Lucia Ritterman Weintraub ◽  
John M. Schuberth

Background: The incidence rate of venous thrombotic events (VTEs) following foot and ankle surgery is low. Currently, there is no consensus regarding postoperative prophylaxis or evidence to support risk stratification. Methods: A 2-part study assessing the incidence and factors for the development of VTE was conducted: (1) a retrospective observational cohort study of 22 486 adults to calculate the overall incidence following foot and/or ankle surgery from January 2008 to May 2011 and (2) a retrospective matched case-control study to identify risk factors for development of VTE postsurgery. One control per VTE case matched on age and sex was randomly selected from the remaining patients. Results: The overall incidence of VTE was 0.9%. Predictive risk factors in bivariate analyses included obesity, history of VTE, history of trauma, use of hormonal replacement or oral contraception therapy, anatomic location of surgery, procedure duration 60 minutes or more, general anesthesia, postoperative nonweightbearing immobilization greater than 2 weeks, and use of anticoagulation. When significant variables from bivariate analyses were placed into the multivariable regression model, 4 remained statistically significant: adjusted odds ratio (aOR) for obesity, 6.1; history of VTE, 15.7; use of hormone replacement therapy, 8.9; and postoperative nonweightbearing immobilization greater than 2 weeks, 9.0. The risk of VTE increased significantly with 3 or more risk factors ( P = .001). Conclusion: The overall low incidence of VTE following foot and ankle surgery does not support routine prophylaxis for all patients. Among patients with 3 or more risk factors, the use of chemoprophylaxis may be warranted. Level of Evidence: Level III, retrospective case series.


2009 ◽  
Vol 30 (9) ◽  
pp. 873-876 ◽  
Author(s):  
J. Thaddeus Leaseburg ◽  
James K. DeOrio ◽  
Shane A. Shapiro

Background: This study assessed the variability of plate bend in regard to final metatarsophalangeal (MP) fusion angles and toe-to-floor distance. We hypothesized that the final MP angle, the angle of the proximal phalanx to the floor, and the weightbearing toe-to-floor distance would be dictated solely by the magnitude of the bend in the plate. Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective analysis of 35 sequential patients who underwent MP fusion with a low-contour titanium plate. Postoperative weightbearing radiographs were analyzed for plate angle, MP fusion angle, the angle of the proximal phalanx to the floor, and the weightbearing toe-to-floor distance. Results: We found statistical correlation between plate angle and MP angle and between plate angle and the angle of the proximal phalanx to the floor. However, there was low correlation between plate angle and with toe-to-floor distance. In addition, we noted many outliers, which resulted in higher or lower correlation of the MP angle to the expected plate angle and, thus, a relationship between angles that was far from linear. Conclusion: Care needs to be taken when relying solely on the bend in the plate to determine the final position of the toe in MP fusions. Although the association between plate bend and MP angle and proximal phalanx to floor angle was strong, the association between the bend in the plate and weight bearing toe-to-floor distance was variable. This could result in the toe hitting the shoe or the need to vault over the toe. Therefore, the surgeon must match the plate to each patient's anatomy to ensure proper weight bearing toe-to-floor distance and not rely on plate angle exclusively. Level of Evidence: IV, Retrospective Case Series


2021 ◽  
Vol 6 (2) ◽  
pp. 247301142110085
Author(s):  
Christopher Traynor ◽  
James Jastifer

Background: Instability of the first-tarsometatarsal (TMT) joint has been proposed as a cause of hallux valgus. Although there is literature demonstrating how first-TMT arthrodesis affects hallux valgus, there is little published on how correction of hallux valgus affects the first-TMT joint alignment. The purpose of this study was to determine if correction of hallux valgus impacts the first-TMT alignment and congruency. Improvement in alignment would provide evidence that hallux valgus contributes to first-TMT instability. Our hypothesis was that correcting hallux valgus angle (HVA) would have no effect on the first-TMT alignment and congruency. Methods: Radiographs of patients who underwent first-MTP joint arthrodesis for hallux valgus were retrospectively reviewed. The HVA, 1-2 intermetatarsal angle (IMA), first metatarsal–medial cuneiform angle (1MCA), medial cuneiform–first metatarsal angle (MC1A), relative cuneiform slope (RCS), and distal medial cuneiform angle (DMCA) were measured and recorded for all patients preoperatively and postoperatively. Results: Of the 76 feet that met inclusion criteria, radiographic improvements were noted in HVA (23.6 degrees, P < .0001), 1-2 IMA (6.2 degrees, P < .0001), 1MCA (6.4 degrees, P < .0001), MC1A (6.5 degrees, P < .0001), and RCS (3.3 degrees, P = .001) comparing preoperative and postoperative radiographs. There was no difference noted with DMCA measurements (0.5 degrees, P = .53). Conclusion: Our findings indicate that the radiographic alignment and subluxation of the first-TMT joint will reduce with isolated treatment of the first-MTP joint. Evidence suggests that change in the HVA can affect radiographic alignment and subluxation of the first-TMT joint. Level of Evidence: Level IV, retrospective case series.


2020 ◽  
Vol 8 (12) ◽  
pp. 232596712096708
Author(s):  
Avinesh Agarwalla ◽  
Kaisen Yao ◽  
Anirudh K. Gowd ◽  
Nirav H. Amin ◽  
J. Martin Leland ◽  
...  

Background: Citation counts have often been used as a surrogate for the scholarly impact of a particular study, but they do not necessarily correlate with higher-quality investigations. In recent decades, much of the literature regarding shoulder instability is focused on surgical techniques to correct bone loss and prevent recurrence. Purpose: To determine (1) the top 50 most cited articles in shoulder instability and (2) if there is a correlation between the number of citations and level of evidence or methodological quality. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Methods: A literature search was performed on both the Scopus and the Web of Science databases to determine the top 50 most cited articles in shoulder instability between 1985 and 2019. The search terms used included “shoulder instability,” “humeral defect,” and “glenoid bone loss.” Methodological scores were calculated using the Modified Coleman Methodology Score (MCMS), Jadad scale, and Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies (MINORS) score. Results: The mean number of citations and mean citation density were 222.7 ± 123.5 (range, 124-881.5) and 16.0 ± 7.9 (range, 6.9-49.0), respectively. The most common type of study represented was the retrospective case series (evidence level, 4; n = 16; 32%) The overall mean MCMS, Jadad score, and MINORS score were 61.1 ± 10.1, 1.4 ± 0.9, and 16.0 ± 3.0, respectively. There were also no correlations found between mean citations or citation density versus each of the methodological quality scores. Conclusion: The list of top 50 most cited articles in shoulder instability comprised studies with low-level evidence and low methodological quality. Higher-quality study methodology does not appear to be a significant factor in whether studies are frequently cited in the literature.


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