Evaluation of a surgical treatment algorithm for neglected clubfoot in low-resource settings

Purpose Idiopathic clubfoot affects approximately 1/1000 alive-born infants, of whom 80–91% are born in low- or middle-income countries (LMICs). This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the morphological, functional, and social outcomes in patients with neglected clubfoot in rural Bangladesh, after receiving surgical treatment. Methods Patients received a posteromedial release (PMR) with or without an additional soft tissue intervention (group 1), a PMR with an additional bony intervention (group 2), or a triple arthrodesis (group 3) according to our surgical algorithm. Patients were followed until two year post-intervention. Evaluation was done using a modified International Clubfoot Study Group Outcome evaluation score and the Laaveg-Ponseti score. Results Twenty-two patients with 32 neglected clubfeet (ages 2–24 years) received surgical treatment. Nineteen patients with 29 clubfeet attended follow-up. At two year follow-up an excellent, good, or fair Laaveg-Ponseti score was obtained in 81% (group 1), 80% (group 2), and 0% (group 3) of the patients (p value 0.0038). Age at intervention is inversely correlated with the Laaveg-Ponseti score at two year follow-up (p < 0.0001). All patients attended school or work and were able to wear normal shoes. Conclusion Our treatment algorithm is in line with other surgical algorithms used in LMICs. Our data reconfirms that excellent results can be obtained with a PMR regardless of age. Our algorithm follows a pragmatic approach that takes into account the reality on the ground in many LMICs. Good functional outcomes can be achieved with PMR for neglected clubfoot. Further research is needed to investigate the possible role of triple arthrodesis.

Peripheral talus fractures

Objective: To present the epidemiology and assess short-term clinical and radiological outcomes of peripheral talus fractures treated between 2013 and 2019 at a secondary hospital. Methods: This is a retrospective study based on a series of 21 cases of peripheral talus fractures. Out of these 21 cases, 11 underwent functional assessment using the ankle-hindfoot scale of the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) and radiological assessment after a mean period of 24.5 months. Results: Regarding the epidemiology of the 21 reported cases, the mean age was 28.7 years and 76.2% of the patients were male. The left foot was affected in 71.4% of the cases, and the most frequent type of trauma was motorcycle accident (47.6%); 23.8% of the cases had open fractures. Complete peritalar dislocation occurred in 38.0% of the cases and the most common fracture was that of the lateral process of the talus, in 42.8% of the cases. Eleven patients returned for reassessment and presented a mean AOFAS score of 80.9 points. All fractures were consolidated at the moment of assessment, and one of them progressed to subtalar and talonavicular osteoarthritis, requiring triple arthrodesis. Conclusion: The peripheral fractures studied here were caused by high-energy traumas with open fractures in one-quarter of the cases and were frequently associated with other fractures. The short-term functional outcome is good but has potential for severe complications such as stiffness and persistent pain. Level of Evidence IV, Therapeutic Studies; Case Series.

Double versus triple arthrodesis for adult-acquired flatfoot deformity due to stage III posterior tibial tendon insufficiency: a prospective comparative study of two cohorts

Purpose The study aims to prospectively compare double and triple arthrodesis in terms of functional outcomes and deformity correction. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first prospective comparative study in the literature to date. Methods This is a prospective comparative cohort study carried out between May 2017 and May 2019. The study was approved by the IRB at Assiut University and done according to the Helsinki declaration. Patients with AAFD stage III aged between 15 and 40 years old were assigned to double arthrodesis or triple arthrodesis. The groups were prospectively followed for one year. Primary outcomes were union rates, AOFAS scores, and radiological parameters of deformity correction on AP and lateral plain radiographs. Secondary outcomes were operative time, time to union, and complications. The double arthrodesis was done through the medial approach, while the triple arthrodesis was done through dual medial and lateral approaches. The post-operative protocol was standardized for both groups. Results A total of twenty-three patients matched the inclusion criteria and provided their consent to participate in the study. Thirteen (all males) patients underwent double arthrodesis, while ten (nine males and one female) patients underwent triple arthrodesis. The mean age for double and triple arthrodesis was 20.15 ± 5.63 and 25.10 ± 8.36 years, respectively, and the mean follow-up lengths were 12.46 and 12.9 months, respectively. There were no statistically significant differences between both groups in age, gender, laterality, or duration of follow-up. There were no statistically significant differences between both groups in AOFAS hindfoot scores or radiographic parameters. All patients were available for the final follow-up evaluation. All patients in both groups achieved union by four months post-operatively. The mean time to union in the double and triple arthrodesis groups was 3.39 ± 0.65 vs. 3.31 ± 0.6 months, respectively, with no statistically significant differences (p = 0.77). The mean operative time was significantly shorter in the double arthrodesis group than the triple arthrodesis group, 55.77 ± 15.18 vs. 91.6 ± 24.14 min (p < 0.001), respectively. Both double and triple arthrodesis groups had a statistically significant improvement of the mean AOFAS hindfoot score post-operatively (71.46 ± 7.77 vs. 88.38 ± 3.66, p < 0.001) and (66.9 ± 7.69 vs. 85 ± 5.83, p < 0.001), respectively. In the double arthrodesis group, the mean calcaneal pitch angle increased from 11.46° pre-operatively to 19.34° (MD = 8.45°, p < 0.001). The mean Meary’s angle improved from − 4.19 to 2.9° (MD = 7.32°, p < 0.001). Hibbs angle had a mean reduction of 6.45° post-operatively (p = 0.069). In the triple arthrodesis group, the mean calcaneal pitch angle improved from 10.06° pre-operatively to 17.49° post-operatively (MD = 7.12°, p < 0.001). The mean Meary’s angle improved from − 4.72 to 2.29° (MD = 7.09°, p < 0.001). The mean Hibbs angle decreased from 153.07 to 142.32° (MD = 10.54°, p < 0.001). The double vs. triple arthrodesis groups had no statistically significant differences in AOFAS hindfoot score improvement (16.92 vs. 19.1, p = 0.44), respectively. The two groups had no statistically significant differences in the magnitude of correction of all the radiographic parameters. Conclusion Double arthrodesis is an equally reliable surgical option for AAFD stage III for achieving union, improving the functional outcomes, and deformity correction as triple arthrodesis with a significantly shorter operative time in the former. The authors recommend double arthrodesis if the calcaneocuboid joint is unaffected.

Triple Arthrodesis for Equinovarus Foot using Ilizarov Technique: A Retrospective Study

Introduction: Equinovarus foot deformity is a significant problem in adolescents and its treatment remains challenging. Triple arthrodesis, even though an effective palliative tool in management of complex foot deformity, has its own limitations if it is done for acute deformity correction. Ilizarov technique offers gradual deformity correction, fusion and takes care of many known complications of acute correction. However, there are very few studies about effectiveness and functional outcome of triple arthrodesis for equinovarus deformity when done gradually with an Ilizarov fixator. Aim: To study the effectiveness of triple arthrodesis, performed with Ilizarov technique for equinovarus foot deformity in adolescents and adults and to evaluate the early functional outcome and patient satisfaction rate for this procedure. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis of 22 feet in 20 patients with equinovarus foot deformity between January 2015 and December 2018 was done. Patients underwent gradual deformity correction and triple fusion with Ilizarov fixator. Foot was assessed for any residual deformity and shortening. Functional outcome and patient satisfaction were assessed by Ankle Hind Foot Scale (AHFS) and Likert scale, respectively using paired t-test. Final analysis was done with Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 21.0. Results: Twelve males and eight females with mean age of 15.9±3.4 years fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were included for final analysis of results. Fusion rate was 86.1% with mean union time of 12.5 weeks. Mean AHFS improved from 61.27 before surgery to 76.9 which was statistically significant (p<0.0001). One or more complications were seen in 15 (68.1%) feet but were managed satisfactorily without any significant impact on final outcome. Patient satisfaction rate for the procedure was 80%. After a mean follow-up of 18.1 months, plantigrade foot with equal foot length was obtained in all patients. Conclusion: Triple arthrodesis with gradual deformity correction by Ilizarov technique effectively corrects equinovarus foot deformity and foot length discrepancy. Known complications of acute deformity correction can be avoided with equally good results. It corrects deformity and restores alignment of foot more accurately leading to a high patient satisfaction rate.

Complications Associated with Triple Arthrodesis Versus Non-Fusion Flatfoot Reconstruction: A Matched Cohort Study

Category: Hindfoot; Midfoot/Forefoot; Other Introduction/Purpose: Pes planovalgus is a very common deformity of the foot, often resulting from adult acquired flatfoot disorder (AAFD). This deformity in its early stages is treated conservatively with non-operatively modalities such as bracing, however in its later stages often requires surgical correction of the deformity in order to improve the pain and function of the extremity. Two commonly performed procedures in the correction of this type of deformity are a triple arthrodesis or joint sparing flatfoot reconstruction. The objective of this study was to identify whether differences existed in the financial burden or complication rates of non-fusion flatfoot reconstruction versus triple arthrodesis. Methods: The PearlDiver Database was queried from 2006-2013 to identify all Medicare patients who were admitted for a triple arthrodesis or non-fusion flatfoot reconstruction. 2308 patients were identified in each cohort and statistically matched in a 1:1 manner to control for influence of demographics and/or comorbidities. Postoperative complication rates (within 30 days) were evaluated and broken down into major (PE/DVT, MI, CVA, sepsis, mortality, nerve injury) and minor (UTI, PNA, hardware failure, transfusion, wound complications) categories. Additionally, total cost of care including cost of readmissions, and readmission within 30 days were evaluated. Results: No significant differences were noted in the postoperative complication rates between the two procedures within the first 30 days post-operatively in the initial univariate regression. There was a significant difference in the rate of 30 day readmission with 2.3% of triple arthrodeses being readmitted vs. 1.08% in the non-fusion joint reconstruction group (p=.002). Adjusted multivariate regression yielded similar results, with no significant differences in postoperative complication rates. The difference in readmission rate remained significant in the multivariate regression (OR 2.13, 95% CI 1.33-3.51, p=.002). Significant differences were also noted for mean total cost of care, with a higher mean total cost identified for the fusion group (x=7,868.0) compared to the reconstruction group (x=4,064.49, p<.001, Adjusted 𝛽𝛽 3,836.71, 95% CI 3,525.23 to 4,148.19, p<.001). Conclusion: This study compared triple arthrodesis versus joint-sparing flatfoot reconstruction. Within this study group there was no difference in complications between the two procedures. There was a significantly higher incidence of 30-day readmission in the triple arthrodesis group by about 2-fold. When comparing the total cost of care, there was a significantly higher cost associated with the triple arthrodesis, which cost on average about $3800 more than joint sparing flatfoot reconstruction. While revealing with regard to the aforementioned variables within the first 30 days post-operatively, further research needs to be conducted on the long term outcomes of these procedures. [Table: see text][Table: see text][Table: see text]

Is there a Difference in Outcomes between Patients who Received a Double or Triple Arthrodesis for Hindfoot Arthritis?

Category: Hindfoot Introduction/Purpose: Triple arthrodesis has historically been considered the standard of treatment for arthritis of the hindfoot with or without deformity. The complications of this surgery including non-union, malunion, nerve injury, infection and wound healing problems can occur at any of the three joints. Double arthrodesis is capable of producing a similar reduction in degrees of motion and correction of foot deformity but may also cause less patient morbidity in regard to these complications due to one less joint being incorporated into the fusion procedure. What is unknown is the patient reported outcomes, specifically physical function (PF) and pain interference (PI) between these two procedures. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the clinical outcomes for hindfoot deformity using a triple compared to a double arthrodesis. Methods: A retrospective medical record review was performed (February 2015-December 2019), of 96 identified cases, 54 had complete data over 4 months post operation for either a double (Age = 58 (11); Body Mass Index (BMI) = 34.4 (6.0); n=24) or triple arthrodesis (Age= 55 (13); BMI = 33.0 (10.0); n = 30). Patient Reported Outcome Measurement Information System (PROMIS) physical function and pain interference were assessed at last available pre-operation and last follow up time points. Medical records were reviewed for complications (yes/no). ANOVA models were used to assess differences pre to post surgery (covariates included age, BMI, and length of follow up). Chi Square analysis was used to assess proportions of patients achieving a minimal clinically important difference (34.5) and complications by group. Results: There were no differences between groups in terms of age (p = 0.51), BMI (p = 0.44), or length of follow up (triple = 540 (334) days versus double = 390 (336) days; p=0.12). There were no significant differences in PROMIS PF (pre-post change 95% CI: triple= 1.2 (-4.1 to 1.6) versus double = 0.2 (-2.5 to 2.0)). The for PROMIS PI both groups experienced lower pain (average 5.1 (1.0) with the greater decrease in pain in the triple group (Figure 1; pre-post change 95% CI: triple= 7.1 (-10.2 to -4.0) versus double = 3 (-5.5 to -0.6)). Chi square analysis showed that a greater proportion of patients undergoing a triple (triple 61.9 % versus double 33.3 %) experienced MCID improvement in PROMIS PI (X2=4.4, p=0.04). There were 4 complications in the double group, and 6 in the triple group. Conclusion: Double arthrodesis can allow for similar correction of foot deformities without the increased risk of wound complication, infection or nonunion/malunion. However, we found that patients who underwent a triple arthrodesis were more likely to have an improvement in minimally important clinical difference (MCID) in the PROMIS pain interference scores than those who underwent a double arthrodesis.

Impact of Hardware Choice on Talonavicular Arthrodesis Non-Union Rate

Category: Midfoot/Forefoot; Ankle Arthritis; Hindfoot Introduction/Purpose: Talonavicular arthrodesis is a commonly performed procedure in orthopedic foot and ankle surgery, for conditions including osteoarthritis, instability, and others. The surgery is frequently performed as part of a double or triple arthrodesis. Multiple surgical constructs have been described, including screws, plate/screw constructs, and staple/screw constructs. Few studies exist that specifically focus on the talonavicular joint, and those that do are often limited by low patient volumes. Studies that do study non-union of the talonavicular joint do not offer comparative data on non-union rates between the different methods of fixation. The purpose of this study was to determine the rate of arthrodesis in talonavicular fusion surgery among different fixation techniques and determine if hardware has a significant effect on union rate. Methods: This study is a retrospective single institution, multi-surgeon study evaluating arthrodesis rates in the talonavicular joint. Adult patients undergoing primary talonavicular fusion (isolated or as part of double/triple arthrodesis) from 2015-2018 with a minimum of 3 month radiographic follow-up were studied. Patients undergoing revision talonavicular fusion or fusion as part of Charcot reconstruction were excluded. Patient radiographic and chart notes were reviewed to assess fixation type (single screw, 2-hole compression plate, screw + staple, or 4-hole plate), the status of the arthrodesis at >=3 months and any hardware complications or reoperations following the index procedure. Descriptive statistics were generated for standard patient demographics and co-morbidities. Non-union rates were calculated for the cohort as a whole and for each fixation technique utilized along with the frequency of hardware complications/removal. Univariate analysis was performed to determine risk factors for increased non-union rate, including patient demographics, co-morbidities, and fixation technique. Results: A total of 101 patients were included. Hardware included 69 single screws, 27 two-hole compression plates, and 4 screw + staple constructs. Four patients (3.96%) went on to develop a nonunion of the talonavicular joint, while 10 patients (9.9%) required a removal of hardware procedure following the initial arthrodesis. Of nonunion cases, 3 patients had single screw hardware while 1 had a two-hole plate. Removal of hardware was necessary in 5/69 patients with single screws (7.2%) and 4/27 patients with 2-hole plates (14.8%). Statistical significance could not be concluded when comparing union vs. nonunion patients due to the success of union across hardware groups that resulted in a scarce nonunion patient population (4 patients). Conclusion: This study demonstrates that there are multiple types of hardware appropriate for achieving and maintaining talonavicular fusion. One limitation of this report is that the majority of non-single screw cases utilized a 2-hole plate, with significantly fewer patients utilizing screw + staple and 4-hole plate constructs. Single screw and 2-hole plate hardware techniques achieve excellent rate of union, and physicians can make decisions of which to utilize based on patient factors. Further study is indcated on even larger patient cohorts with increased population of nonunion cases so that significant patient risk factors for nonunion of the joint can be identified. [Table: see text]