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Ultimate
Podiatry Interview Review Manual
© 2010 OZ
Ingredients:
AJM Prism Manual – 100 pages, the best one out there
Radiology Review notes (SCPM) – Some topics are over-detailed for the interviews
Mangold manual – Abx, Labs, Pain management, Surgery procedures, EKG (SCPM)
OZ manual
Residency Review manual – Good for some classic articles, lots of pages but a quick read
Classic Articles
<Additional resource you should have is the “Podiatric Medicine and Surgery Part II: Pearls of Wisdom
: that one you will have to buy ~ 50$ @ Amazon/Walmart>
The AJM
You should have a strategy going into the residency interview, just as your interviewers should have a strategy about
how to evaluate you. One of the most important ways to prepare is to think about the interview process from the other
side of the table. The interviewers only have a given amount of time to spend with you; no more than 30 minutes in most
cases. This is not a lot of time. What do they really want to know about you? What information can they get from you in 30
minutes that tells them about what kind of doctor you are going to be?
Remember that the attendings of a program are essentially hiring you to help handle their patients, and at the
interview they want to know if they can trust you with this responsibility. Asking inane, esoteric questions during the
academic interview doesn’t really give them this information. On the other hand, asking basic “work-up” based questions
does. These questions allow the interviewer to see how you will be approaching their patients in the future. It gives
them information about how your mind works when dealing with patients on an everyday level. If you were an attending on
the other side of the table, would you rather know if the student can take you through the clotting cascade, or how they are
going to handle your patient in the ED with a suspected post-operative infection?
Another thing to think about is that the interviewers need to compare your answers to the other people you are going
against for the program, and they don’t have a lot of time to do this. They should have some standardized way of
quantitatively grading your performance against the performance of others. I like to think of this as “check marks”. Think
of the interviewers asking the same exact questions to each student and then having a form or a list in front of them. There
are certain “buzz words” that they want you to say and certain questions that they want you to ask during the work-up. The
more things you get correct, the more “check marks” you get on their form. And at the end of the day, they add up all the
“check marks” and see who got the most. Your goal during a 30-minute interview should be to get as many “check marks”
as possible.
This manual was put together based on the way that I studied for interviews. There is certainly no shortage of
material to study, and this manual in no way can replace or even rival some of the other study guides that are out there. The
goal of the PRISM is simply to help you be as efficient as possible with the process and to think about the interview
from the other side of the table. My goal with coming up with the following sheets was to take a given topic and fit
everything that could be asked about that topic during an interview onto a single sheet of paper. Realize that it is not all the
information on a given topic, but all the information that is likely to be asked during an interview. There’s a big
difference there.
Your goal heading into the interview process should be to have a standardized way of handling every question or
situation that you are presented with, and to get as many “check marks” as possible. Think about it. The easiest way for the
interviewers to answer the questions they have about you is to present you with a clinical scenario, and see how you work-up
that situation. Therefore, the most efficient way to study for interviews is to take a given topic, and then “work-up” a patient
in that situation. I made all of the AJM Sheets with this thought in mind (see “Gout” example on next page).
Also included in this manual are AJM Lists. Studying is by nature a passive exercise, but the interview process
involves actively answering questions and talking out loud. The Lists allow you to actively think about a topic like you will
be expected to do during the interview. It takes a broad, clinical situation/subject and asks you to come up with as many
answers as possible. I hope that they help you realize that there is not always one answer to a question, but possibly many
different answers that can all be considered correct. The more answers that you can come up with for a given List, the
more “check marks” you get during the interview.
Again, this manual is far from complete and absolutely does not contain all of the information you will be asked
during an interview. It simply hopes to change the way that you think about the interview process and highlight some
of the information that you are most likely to be asked. I limited it to 100 pages of the most commonly asked information
and the kind of stuff that I’m going to ask if I’m a residency director someday. It is not in any way meant to be
overwhelming.
I also want this to be a “living” document. It is not intended to be commercial and should never be sold. I’m going
to take it with me when I graduate from residency, leave it with the Inova program, and distribute it electronically to anyone
who wants it. Feel free to change/update it in any way that you think would be helpful, but please keep it to exactly 100
pages. In other words, if you think something is important and should be included, you also have to decide what isn’t as
important and should be taken out. It will be interesting to see how it evolves over the years!
Good luck and please do not hesitate to contact me if there is any way that I can be of service to you.
AJMeyr@gmail.com
2
AJM Sheet Example: Gout
-Subjective
CC: Pt classically complains of a “red, hot, swollen joint”. Typical patient is a male in the 6th decade (as much as a 20:1 M:F ratio).
HPI: -Nature: Intense pain out of proportion with swelling/pressure.
-Location: Single or multiple joints. Unilateral or bilateral. Most common is 1st MPJ, but can occur in any joint.
-Acute, abrupt onset; more commonly at night.
-Aggravating Factors: Pressure, WB, diet (red wine, organ meat, lard, seafood).
-History: Recurrent gouty attacks are very common
PMH: -Genetic enzyme defects, obesity, lead poisoning, tumor, psoriasis, hemolytic anemia may all be underlying causes.
-Renal disease (renal disease is 2nd most common complication of gout).
-Kidney stones
Meds: -Diuretics, low dose ASA, TB meds, warfarin may exacerbate.
SH: -Diets high in red wine, organ meat, lard and seafood may exacerbate.
All/FH: -Usually non-contributory
ROS: -May be associated with fever.
-Objective
Physical Exam
-Derm: -Erythema, Calor, Edema present at affected joint
-May see tophi sticking out of skin
-Vasc: -Non-pitting edema at affected site
-Neuro: -Intense pain out of proportion
-Ortho: -Decreased PROM/AROM at affected joint with guarding.
Imaging
-Plain Film Radiograph: -Increased soft tissue density with joint effusion. Tophi may be visible in soft tissue.
-Fine striated pattern of periosteal reaction along the cortex adjacent to tophi
-Lace pattern of osseous erosion
-Round osseous erosion with a sclerotic margin (“rat bite erosion” or “punched-out lesion”).
-Martel’s sign: Expansile lesion with an overhanging osseous margin.
Laboratory
-Joint aspirate is mandatory for diagnosis of gout:
-Needle-shaped monosodium urate crystals
-Negatively birefringent (bright yellow) when viewed under polarizing light microscope parallel to axis of lens.
-Blue when perpendicular to axis of lens.
-Serum uric acid levels > 7.5mg/dl (non-diagnostic)
-Elevated ESR
-Synovial fluid analysis: Elevated leukocytes with a predomination of neutrophils
-Generalized increased white cell count
-General Information
-Definition: Metabolic disorder secondary to the build-up of monosodium urate crystals and supersaturated hyperuricemic extracellular fluids in and around
joints and tendons causing the clinical manifestations of a red, hot, swollen joint.
-It is the most common cause of inflammatory arthritis in men over the age of 30.
-Classification
-Primary: Elevated serum urate levels or urate deposition secondary to inherent disorders of uric acid metabolism.
-Uric Acid Overproduction (Metabolic Gout): 10% of patients
-Excessive amounts of uric acid excreted into the urine
-Occurs secondary to an enzyme defect, tumor, psoriasis, hemolytic anemia, etc.
-Dx: Uric Acid Level >600mg in a 24-hour urine collection
-Uric Acid Undersecretion (Renal Gout): 90% of patients
-Relative deficit in the renal excretion of uric acid.
-Secondary: A minor clinical feature secondary to some genetic or acquired process
-Treatment
-Symptomatic Pharmacology (relieves symptoms, but doesn’t attack underlying pathophysiology)
-Indomethacin: 50mg PO q8
-Colchicine: 0.5-1.0mg PO initially, then 0.5mg PO q1 hour until symptoms (GI) or pain relief
Then around 0.5mg PO qday as prophylaxis
-Active/Physiologic Pharmocology (attacks underlying pathophysiology and prevents recurrence)
-Allopurinol: 100-600mg PO qday as single or divided doses.
-Blocks uric acid production by inhibition of the enzyme xanthine oxidase.
-Probenecid: 250mg PO bid for one week; then 500mg PO bid
-Increases uric acid removal from urine (decreases reabsorption)
-Surgical Intervention (if you get rid of the joint, then you get rid of a potential site for gout to attack!)
-I&D/Washout
-Arthroplasty
-Arthrodesis
-Further Reading
-Roper RB. The perioperative management of the gouty patient. J Amer Podiatry Assoc. 1984 Apr;74(4):168-72.
-Schlesinger N. Management of acute and chronic gouty arthritis: present state-of-the-art. Drugs. 2004;64(21):2399-2416.
-Keith MP. Updates in the management of gout. Am J Med. 2007 Mar;120(3):221-4.
3
Table of Contents:
4
Lists Schedule:
AJM Lists were originally created to be done during an externship. Students often have a lot of
down time during the day while the residents are doing work that doesn’t need assistance. The lists give
the students something to do during this time and make it look like they’re busy instead of just standing
around doing nothing (in front of the attendings and residents). It also encourages students to collaborate,
and shows the residents/attendings that they can work well with each other and in groups.
When I was a resident, I would give the students one list and a related article each day, and then
we would try and get together once a week to go over them. It usually generated a great deal of good
discussion. If you are using these lists to study on your own, get together with a group of friends to go over
them and talk about your answers out loud. The way you know if you really understand a topic is if you
can intelligently discuss it and explain it to your peers.
Again, studying is by nature a passive exercise, but at the interview you will be expected to
actively answer questions out loud. Only about half of what the interviewers appreciate from your
answer is the actual content, the other half is how you say it. Remember that the interviewers are
probably asking the same question to every student that walks through the door, so they’ve probably heard
the same answer several times before you even sit down. What they haven’t heard is how you’ve said it!
In other words, you should also be studying “how to say it”.
See the following suggested schedule:
Mondays: Surgery
-HAV Procedures with Indications (page 6)
-Risks and Complications of Surgery (page 7)
-Measurement of Radiographic Angles (page 8)
-Radiographic Review (page 9)
-Surgical Layers of Dissection (page 10)
Tuesdays: Medicine
-Post-Op Fever Etiology (page 11)
-Lab Infection Diagnosis (page 12)
-Imaging Infection Diagnosis (page 13)
-Labs and Why they are Important (page 14)
-Vascular and Neurologic Assessment (page 15)
Wednesdays: Trauma
-Ankle Fx DDx (page 16)
-Synthes Fill-in Chart with Screw Anatomy (page 17)
-Methods of Fixation (page 18)
-Hardware Insertion (page 19)
-Classifications (page 20)
Thursdays: Anatomy
-Ossification of Lower Extremity Bones (page 21)
-5th Metatarsal Anatomy (page 22)
-Dorsal Arterial Anastomosis Variations (page 23)
-Lower Extremity Peripheral Nerve Blockade (page 24)
-Dermatomes with Spinal Levels (page 25)
5
AJM List: HAV Procedures and Indications
Clinical Scenario: You are a first year resident scheduled to be in a “bunion procedure” at a surgery center
tomorrow. You are working with the attending for the first time and want to appear as prepared as
possible. Name as many “bunion procedures” as you can.
Student Goal: Name 20 HAV procedures from distal to proximal. What are the specific clinical and
radiographic indications for each?
6
AJM List: Surgical Complications
Clinical Scenario: You are a first year resident at a surgery center. The attending isn’t there yet, and you
aren’t exactly sure of the specifics of the case, but you want to have all the paperwork filled out for when
the attending gets there (including the consent).
Student Goal: Name as many risks and complications of a generic foot and ankle surgery as possible.
What are some specific complications associated with some specific surgeries? How would you handle
these complications in the post-op period?
7
AJM List: Measurement of Radiographic Angles
Student Goal: Name as many foot and ankle radiographic measurements as possible. What are the normal
values? What clinical information is this giving you?
8
AJM List: Radiology Review
Clinical Scenario: There is a big difference between describing and diagnosing a radiograph. During an
interview, you need to be able to describe the findings you are seeing before you diagnose the pathology.
You also need to be able to do this out loud during the interview process.
Student Goal: Out loud, using as many terms as possible, and in a systematic manner, intelligently describe
the following radiographs before making a diagnosis.
Note: RC and I found it very helpful to practice for interviews by picking up random podiatry textbooks,
and alternating through the pictures describing the radiographs out loud.
9
AJM List: Surgical Layers of Dissection
Student Goal: Identify the 5 surgical planes and 3 surgical intervals of dissection. What structures will you
see in each plane/interval for a standard HAV procedure? For a standard digital procedure?
10
AJM List: Post-operative Fever
Clinical Scenario: On call, you are paged at 3am by a nurse to report a fever in a patient POD#2 of
101.6°F.
Student Goal: Name as many potential causes of fever as possible. How would you diagnose and work-up
each one?
11
AJM List: Laboratory Infection Diagnosis
Clinical Scenario: A patient enters the Emergency Department with a suspected lower extremity infection.
Student Goal: Name as many laboratory tests that you can order to help diagnose an infection. What
clinical information is each test really telling you about the situation?
12
AJM List: Imaging Infection Diagnosis
Clinical Scenario: A patient enters the Emergency Department with a suspected lower extremity infection.
Student Goal: Name as many imaging tests that you can order to help diagnose an infection. Exactly what
are you looking for with each test?
13
AJM List: Routine Lab List
Student Goal: Identify routine labs, their normal values, and what information they are giving you about
the patient. Which labs should be drawn when an infection is suspected and why? Which should be done
in the pre-operative work-up of a patient?
14
AJM List: Vascular and Neurologic Assessment
Student Goal: Name as many subjective and objective vascular and neurologic assessments as possible
while performing a lower extremity examination.
15
AJM List: Ankle Fracture
Clinical Scenario: A patient arrives in the ED exclaiming that they “broke their ankle”. Obviously you
will take an x-ray, but what exactly are you looking for on the radiograph?
Student Goal: Name as many possible fractures that can occur following an ankle sprain.
-Bonus: What do the “Ottawa Ankle Rules” say about getting a radiograph following an ankle sprain?
16
AJM List: Screw Games
2.0mm
2.7mm
4.0mm PT
4.0mm FT
4.5mm
Mall Screw
6.5mm PT
6.5mm FT
Hint: pg 76 McGlam’s
-Draw a screw labeled with as many anatomic landmarks identified as you can (eg. Head, major
diameter, pitch, etc):
17
AJM List: Methods of Fixation
18
AJM List: Hardware Insertion Technique
Student Goal: Describe standard AO lag screw insertion technique. What is the purpose of each step?
Why are they done in that particular order? What is compromised technique? Splintage?
19
AJM List: Classifications
Student Goal: Name as many different trauma classifications as you can that cover the foot and ankle from
distal to proximal.
20
AJM List: Ossification Dates
Student Goal: Name every bone in the lower extremity in order of ossification date.
21
AJM List: 5th Metatarsal Anatomy
Student Goal: Name as many structures as you can that attach to the 5th metatarsal.
22
AJM List: Dorsal Arterial Anastamosis Variations
Student Goal: Draw out as many different variations as possible for the arterial supply to the dorsum of the
foot.
How does this apply to the angiosome principles? (hint: read Dr. Attinger’s work)
23
AJM List: Local Anesthesia and Peripheral Nerve Blockade
Student Goal: Identify as many named foot and ankle peripheral nerve blocks as possible. Which specific
nerves are being anesthetized with each block?
-How and why does epinephrine influence the toxic dose of a local anesthetic?
24
AJM List: Dermatomes
Student Goal: Draw a lower extremity with all of the dermatomes illustrated with associated spinal levels
and landmarks.
25
AJM List: Social Questions
Part I: General Questions
Personal:
Strengths: Be prepared to give at least 3 personal strengths and why they will make you a good resident.
-Strength #1:
-Why it will make you a good resident:
-Strength #2:
-Strength #3:
Weaknesses: Be prepared to give at least 3 weaknesses, and more importantly, how you are remedying them.
-Weakness #1:
-Remedy:
-Weakness #2
-Weakness #3:
Goals: Be prepared to give professional and personal goals, and how you will go about accomplishing them. Another
form this question could take is where you see yourself in a given number of years.
-Professional Goals:
-Goal #1:
-Goal #2:
-Goal #3:
Program Specific: For each program that you apply to, you should have a list of strengths and weaknesses for that
program. Obviously be careful with weaknesses, and always have a way that you can improve the situation. You
should be able to answer why you personally are a good fit for that program. I found it helpful to have a list of
priorities that I was looking for in the different programs, and then described how that particular program fit into my
priorities.
-Program #1:
-Strength #1: -What you are able to bring to the program:
-Strength #2: -Favorite attending and why:
-Strength #3: -Least favorite attending and why:
-Weakness #1: -Favorite resident and why:
-Weakness #2: -Least favorite resident and why:
-Best case you saw at the program:
Here’s my list of priorities that I used based on what was important to me. Everyone’s list can (and really should) be
different, this is just to provide an example:
1. Surgery/Academics
-How is this program going to make you a better doctor? You’re going to learn surgery and do
some academic events at any program in the country, is there anything special about this particular
program that sets it apart? Do they really care about academics, or are they just done to meet a
requirement? (Hint: a good way to tell this is to see how often attendings are excited to show up to
and be involved in meetings). Although the quantity of surgery is important (you have be able to
get your “numbers”), also consider the quality and variety of the surgeries at a program.
2. Outside Rotations
-All programs have the same set of “core” rotations that everyone has to do. Is there anything
unique about this particular program that shows that they really care about your complete education
and want you to have outstanding quality and variety to your residency experience?
3. Location:
-This one kind of speaks for itself, but you should consider if you are going to be completely at one
hospital versus traveling to different hospitals and different surgery centers (there are pros and cons
to each). Also consider what the presence is of the program within the hospital. Is the podiatric
surgery department intricately involved in the hospital, or is it more of an afterthought?
4. Independence
-I’m an independent guy who likes to come up with and pursue my own projects and ideas. Other
people really like structure and would prefer to get an exact schedule for the next three years on day
1 of their residency. So this was something that I was really looking for, but someone else may
want exactly the opposite.
5. The Future
-How is this program going to help you accomplish your professional goals now and after you
graduate?
26
AJM List: Social Questions
Part II: Personal Questions
Personal Questions: These questions are hard to answer and often irrelevant, but you should have answers
ready to go (even if they are made up). Answer as specifically as possible to give the interviewer
something tangible to grab onto about yourself. Always answer “Why?” before they have the chance to ask
you. “Why?” may be the most important question you get during the interview process.
-Note: These questions are very easy to answer if you think about them, but you don’t have time to think
during the interview. You don’t want to show any hesitation during this process, especially questions about
yourself. The worst answer you can give to a specific personal question is “I don’t know.” What is that
saying about you?
***Practice answering all of these questions out loud to yourself in the time leading up to interviews! You
may feel silly talking to yourself, but it is undoubtedly the best way to prepare for this line of
questioning.***
27
AJM List: Social Questions
Part III: Academic and Ethical Social Questions
Academic Social Questions: These are hidden academic questions, but ones you can’t study for in any
book. Please plan these questions out because it is very easy to get trapped in your answer if you lie.
-What was the last good journal article you read? (be able to cite it!):
-What was the last thing you built with your hands?:
-What types of things does the field of podiatric surgery need to do to improve in the future?:
-What is something you learned about the field of podiatric surgery since you started school/externships?:
-Have you participated in any research projects? Why or why not? What was your role in this project?:
Ethical Questions: The key to answering an ethical question is to take a step back from the situation.
Pretend that someone else is in the situation and you are going to give that person advice. Don’t pretend
that you are in the situation; it actually makes it more difficult to think through the process. Remember the
concept of chain-of-command and also remember that there is a real patient involved.
Something else that really helped me out was having a clear order of my priorities. Everyone’s
can be different, but mine are:
1. Responsibility to the patient as a physician
2. Responsibility as an employee of a hospital
3. Responsibility as a resident of the residency program
4. Responsibility for my own education
5. Responsibility for the education of junior residents/students
So whatever ethical situation I was put into, I would make decisions based upon this order of
priorities. Remember that usually there is no right or wrong answer when it comes to ethical situations.
Like George Costanza said about beating a lie detector test: “It’s not a lie (wrong), if you believe it.”
The Semistructured Conversation: Many residency programs (and especially general medicine or general
surgery residency programs) have reevaluated the way that they have traditionally selected residents, and
have moved away from a structured academic interview. They have instead moved onto what’s called a
“semistructured conversation” that tries to evaluate if the applicants have the “knowledge, skills and
attitudes deemed necessary for the practice of medicine”. The questions are a kind of mix of academic and
ethical questions that can develop into more of a conversation. So while these are not purely academic
questions, they can lead into a conversation about specific academic topics. There’s actually a couple
articles about it (Neitzschman HR, Neitzchman LH, Dowling A. Key Component of Resident Selection: The
Semistructured Conversation. Acad Radio. 9: 1423-29; 2002.), and I’ve put together a long list of these
type questions on the next List.
28
AJM List: Social Questions
Part IV: The Semistructured Conversation Interview Questions
-Tell me about a patient care situation in which podiatric surgery altered the management of the patient.
-Describe a critical clinical situation and how you communicated with the family.
-Tell me about something you learned during one of your externships.
-How would you respond to a patient who asks, “Am I going to die?”
-Can you recall any time when you disagreed with a patient’s diagnosis or treatment?
-Tell us about the biggest argument/controversy you were involved with in podiatry school.
-Give us an example of a situation when you were pivotal in the resolution of a conflict between two other people.
-Suppose you’re in charge of the call schedule. You need to fill a slot with one of two people, one of whom has told you he
has to be out of town as best man in a wedding, and the other has to present a paper at a meeting. How would you resolve the
conflict?
-Describe a time when you were in a position to give someone a bad evaluation. How did you handle it?
-What features would you add to a medical school curriculum that you think might better prepare you for a podiatric career?
-Can you recall a time when you received an evaluation with which you disagreed?
-If a referring physician insists that you perform a study on a patient and you believe that study could be harmful to the
patient, how would you handle the situation?
-Describe a patient for whom you felt very little empathy but you knew you should.
-What would you do if you saw a senior resident make a mistake that might harm a patient if not corrected promptly?
-A patient acquires your pager number and home phone number and calls several times per day. How do you handle this
patient’s needs?
-A consulting physician asks you a question, and you are not sure of the answer. How do you handle it?
-Tell me about a negative interaction you had during medical school with anyone from a transporter to an attending and how
the two of you dealt with it at the moment and afterwards.
-What do you see as the most challenging aspects of a podiatric residency?
-How would you handle a situation when you know one of your fellow residents has a problem with drugs or alcohol?
-For what reasons do you want to come this particular geographic area?
-You are on call and someone else asks you a question on a subject you know nothing about. How do you gather information
about the topic expeditiously?
-What resources did you use for researching residency programs?
-Outside of the structured lecture, what other formats did you find most helpful as learning tools?
-Describe for me how you deal with a colleague who is exhibiting evidence of substance abuse.
-Describe your response to an episode of someone cheating on the Gross Anatomy final examination.
-How would you decide (and what factors would you consider), as an HMO executive, whether to immunize 2,500 children
at $100 each or provide one liver transplant at $250,000 each?
-In what ways do you maximize your own health and well-being?
-How would you deal with a fellow resident who is not “pulling their own weight” in their work?
-What personal questions most helped you during medical school?
-Tell me about a patient from whom you learned something.
-How would you like to see podiatric surgery develop over the next 5 years?
-How do you see yourself changing between now and the end of residency?
-Tell me about your experience in using online resources, library resources, and internet resources.
-Did you ever feel as a medical student that you were not part of the clinical team? How did you address the situation in
order to optimize your learning experience?
-Can you recall an experience that made you decide to choose podiatry as a profession?
-Describe one of your most challenging cases during your externships.
-Tell me about an experience in medical school where you felt particularly competent.
-What particular skill do you feel you have that makes podiatric surgery the best specialty for you.
-As you examine different programs, what characteristics are you looking for that we might offer you?
-What diseases or topics have fascinated you in medical school and why?
-What topics interest you that you haven’t had time to explore yet?
-Tell me about an experience when you took a risk that ended up being successful.
-Can you tell me about a patient who had an impact on you?
-Can you recall a time in medical school when you had some doubt about the professional path you have chosen? What did
you do?
-A number of residents (15-20%) leave general surgery residency. What do you think influences their choice?
-How would you rate yourself in terms of your ability to establish rapport and maintain healthy relationships with other
health professionals?
29
AJM Sheets: Diabetic Foot Infection Work-Up
The Diabetic Foot Infection work-up is arguably the most important concept that you can study
during the interview process because it is the one topic that you are almost guaranteed of being asked at
some point. My thought process during interviews was that if I’m certain that I will be asked about it, I’m
going to spend extra time and energy knowing everything possible on the subject. Every student at
interviews is going to get something along these lines; therefore it’s important to be the most prepared and
best able to “wow” the attendings when asked. So I put together a collection of AJM Sheets (totaling about
20 pages) that goes through an in-depth work-up of a diabetic foot infection.
This topic is also a classic example of hitting as many “check marks” as possible during the
interview by having a standardized way of going through a work-up. The way this situation is often
presented at interviews is for them to simply ask you:
“There is a diabetic patient in the ED with a suspected foot infection. What do you want to know
about the patient, and what do you want to do?”
By having a standardized way of going through this work-up (or any work-up), you will seem
more prepared during the interviews, hit more check marks, and won’t stumble about thinking what to ask
next. The basics of this work-up can be applied to any clinical situation.
This work-up also highlights taking an active approach and going on the offensive during the
interview process. Take control of the interview from the interviewers. Do not simply ask if the patient
has diabetes; ask specific questions about the patient’s knowledge, management and known complications
of diabetes. This will show that you really understand the concepts and pathogenesis of the disease
process.
This section has a lot of the same information presented in a number of different ways, giving you
a couple ways to study. While there is certainly no shortage of material to study this information from, my
favorite article on the topic is a must-read: Lipsky BA, et al. Diagnosis and Treatment of Diabetic Foot
Infections. IDSA Guidelines. CID 2004; 39: 885-910. You also certainly should read: Frykberg RG, et
al. Diabetic foot disorders. A clinical practice guideline (2006 revision). J Foot Ankle Surg. 2006 Sep-Oct;
45(5 Suppl): S1-66. And finally, the June 2006 Supplement of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery is a
fantastic resource covering a wide variety of diabetic foot issues, mostly from the Georgetown perspective.
Contents:
-Diabetic Foot Infection History (page 31)
-Diabetic Foot Infection Physical Exam (page 32)
-Wound Classification Systems (page 33)
-Diabetic Foot Infection Laboratory Results (pages 34-35)
-Common Infective Agents with Gram Stain Characteristics (page 36)
-Diabetic Foot Infection Imaging Studies (page 37)
-Diabetic Foot Infection Pathogenesis (page 38)
-Functional Diabetic Foot Infection Anatomy (page 39)
-Osteomyelitis (page 40)
-Osteomyelitis Classifications (page 41)
-Charcot Neuroarthropathy (page 42)
-Charcot Classifications (page 43)
-Differentiating Charcot vs. Osteomyelitis (page 44)
-Common Situational Bugs (page 45)
-Empiric Antibiotic Choices (page 46)
-IDSA Empiric Recommendations (page 47)
-Bugs with Drug of Choice (pages 48-49)
-Antibiotic Dosing Guide (page 50)
30
AJM Sheet: Diabetic Foot Infection Subjective History
Subjective
CC: Pt’s can present with a wide variety of complaints ranging from the systemic signs of infection to increased ulcer
drainage to a change in mental status. Infection should always be in your differential diagnosis dealing with any situation.
PMH: -DM: Complete DM history including length of disease, previous complications, glucose monitoring schedule,
normal glucose readings, HbA1c values, medications, last podiatric evaluation, last internal medicine evaluation,
implemented preventative measures, evaluation of patients level of understanding of pathogenesis of disease, evaluation of
patients role in self-treatment, etc.
-Any known complications of diabetes with interventions/treatment: cardiac disease, peripheral vascular disease,
hypertension, retinopathy.
-Specifically ask about renal disease and liver disease (antibiotic implications).
-Any other immuno-compromising conditions.
-Any other PMH issues.
PSH: -Specifically any previous amputations, foot/ankle surgeries and diabetes-related surgeries.
Meds: -Detailed list of drugs, dosages, and patient compliance to schedule.
All: -True allergies and reactions to drugs, food, products, etc.
***Diabetic foot infections are one of the most challenging aspects of podiatric surgery that will take up a lot of your time,
energy, and stress if you dedicate yourself to the side of limb salvage. Taking a complete history will give you an idea of
how compliant you can expect the patient to be and how actively involved you can expect the patient to be in their care.
31
AJM Sheet: Diabetic Infection Objective Physical Exam
Objective
-Vital Signs: -Temperature: Hyperthermia is a non-descript sign of infection. It is important to monitor temperature on a regular
basis, and follow both current and maximum temperatures. Keep in mind however that Armstrong has documented that 82% of patients
admitted for osteomyelitis were afebrile on admission (JFAS.1996 Jul-Aug; 35(4): 280-3). It has been suggested that diabetic patients,
particularly those with ESRD, are not able to mount an effective immunologic response to the invading pathogen.
-Blood Pressure: Hypotension is a sign of sepsis and non-descript measure of infection.
-Heart Rate: Tachycardia is a sign of sepsis and non-descript measure of infection.
-Respiratory Rate: Increased respiratory rate is a sign of sepsis and non-descript measure of infection.
-Pain Level: Important to document and follow. Has been deemed the “5th vital sign” by JCAHO.
-Glucose Levels: AJM considers blood glucose level the “6th vital sign” and can be one of the most important
quantitative measurements of infection and response to therapy. Research indicates that the immune system is significantly impaired and
essentially not working at levels as high as 150-175 ml/dL. (The Portland Diabetic Project is a good place to start reading about this. Also
see Inzucchi SE. Management of Hyperglycemia in the Hospital Setting. NEJM. Nov 2006. 355;18: 1903-11). Also see the Sheet on
“Glycemic Control” on page 72.
-Ins and Outs: Important in patients with renal compromise.
-Physical Exam
-Derm:
-Wound Characteristics: There are several classification systems you need to know for describing wounds including:
-Wagner Classification
-University of Texas Health System Classification
-PEDIS Classification used by the Infectious Disease Society of America
-Liverpool Classification used by the Musculoskeletal Infectious Disease Society
-Acronym 3D MOBB (depth, diameter, drainage, measure, odor, base, border)
-Regardless of classification, you absolutely must document certain wound characteristics:
-Base: -Exact length, width and depth; consistency (ranging from red/granular to yellow/fibrotic to
black/necrotic. Estimate percentages for mixed bases).
-Depth—Probe to bone? [Grayson JAMA 1995. 89% positive predictive value for OM]. Also…
-Lavery LA. Probe-to-Bone Test for Diagnosing Diabetic Foot Osteomyelitis. Reliable or relic? Diabetes Care. Feb 2007; 30(2): 270-274.
-Wound Edges: -Consider hyperkeratotic, macerated, necrotic, clean, bleeding, epithelial, etc.
-Undermining? Tunneling?
-Drainage: -Consider serous, sanguinous, purulent (describe color), combination, etc.
-Mild, moderate, severe/heavy
-Describe any odor (This is probably Dr. Attinger’s most important variable in infection assessment!)
-Periwound skin: -Consider normal, erythematic (document/draw extent), streaking, stasis changes, trophic changes.
-Vascular:
-Describe extent (anatomic level) and nature (pitting vs. non-pitting) of any edema.
-Pulses (DP, PP, PT, Pop, and Fem every time)
-Always doppler if nonpalpable at each level
-CFT, Pedal Hair
-ABI: -Values >0.9 associated with good healing potential
-Values 0.5-0.9 associated with PVD and delayed healing
-Values <0.5 associated with ischemia and problematic healing
-Be wary of elevated values secondary to vessel calcification
-TcPO2: -Values >30mmHg associated with good healing potential [Mars M. Transcutaneous oxygen tension as a predictor of success
after an amputation. JBJS-Am. 1988; 70(9): 1429-30.]
-Values <20mmHg associated with microcirculatory problems and delayed/problematic healing.
-Absolute Pressures: -Should have 40mmHg at ankle and 20mmHg at the digits for healing potential.
-Absolute/Relative skin temperature: compare B/L (normal around 94° F).
-Any other relevant vascular testing.
-Neurologic:
-Include testing for sensory, motor and autonomic neuropathy
-Sensory testing:
-Posterior column: Vibratory, Proprioception
-Anterior column: Light touch (5.07 SWMF)
-Lateral column: Pain and temperature
-Motor testing:
-Expect intrinsic weakness with advanced neuropathy
-Manual Muscle Testing
-Spinal Reflexes (Achilles, Patellar, Babinski)
-Autonomic:
-Increase in skin temperature
-Lack of sweating leading to xerosis
-Any other relevant neurologic tests (you should have an awareness of Dellon’s work and the PSSD).
-Orthopedic:
-Document any/all foot deformities, especially osseous prominences.
-Expect intrinsic muscle weakness leading to digital deformities.
-Overall foot type
-Equinus
32
AJM Sheet: Specific Wound Classification Systems
-Wagner Classification: [Wagner FW: The dysvascular foot: a system of diagnosis and treatment. Foot Ankle 2: 64–122, 1981]
0: Pre-ulcerative area without open lesion
1: Superficial ulcer (partial/full thickness)
2: Ulcer deep to tendon, capsule, bone
3: Stage 2 with abscess, osteomyelitis or joint sepsis
4: Localized gangrene
5: Global foot gangrene
-So an infected ulcer with localized gangrene and bone exposure on a fully sensate, ischemic foot is: Wagner 4B.
-University of Texas: [Lavery LA, Armstrong DG, Harkless LB: Classification of diabetic foot wounds. J Foot Ankle Surg 35:528–531, 1996]
0: 1: 2: 3:
-So an infected ulcer with localized gangrene and bone exposure on a fully sensate, ischemic foot is: UT-3D.
-Primary: -Neuropathic
-Ischemic
-Neuroischemic
-PEDIS System: [Lipsky BA, et al. Diagnosis and Treatment of Diabetic Foot Infections. IDSA Guidelines. CID 2004; 39: 885-910].
-Recommended by the Infectious Disease Society of America.
-PEDIS is an acronym standing for perfusion (measure of vascular supply), extent/size, depth/tissue loss, infection,
and sensation.
-Each of the 5 categories is graded from 0 (minimal) to 2 (severe).
-Based on10-point scale with 10 being most serious ulcer with greatest difficulty in treatment.
33
AJM Sheet: Diabetic Infection Objective Laboratory Results: Basic
-Leukocytosis is an increased WBC. The absolute count tells you very little, but trending can be very
important. An increased leukocyte count indicates an increased level of inflammation, not necessarily
infection. Keep in mind that there are many other causes of leukocytosis besides infection.
-Drugs: Lithium, Corticosteroids
-Leukopenia is a decreased WBC. This could lead to a normal WBC in the presence of infection.
-Drugs: Methotrexate, Phenybutase, Dilantin, Salicylates
-[Armstrong DG. Leukocytosis is a poor indicator of acute osteomyelitis of the foot in DM. JFAS 1996 Jul-Aug; 35(4): 280-3.]
-Chem-7/Metabolic Panel
-Little information about specific infection, but insight into general health of patient.
-Generally:
-General increased concentrations: Dehydrated state
-Acidosis: Non-descript finding in infection
-Increased BUN: Dehydrated state
-BUN/Cr: Renal function which has antibiotic consequences
-Minerals (Ca, Mg, P)
-Abnormal in renal dysfunction with long term vascular consequences.
-Glucose, HbA1c
-Long-term effects of hyperglycemia discussed in pathogenesis section.
-HbA1C: Measure of glycosylated hemoglobin and long-term glucose control:
-1% equals approximately 20 glucose points (7% equals ~140ug/ul)
-Note that the stress of infection will probably cause a hyperglycemic state.
-H&H, Coags
-Essential to know if you are planning surgery.
34
AJM Sheet: Diabetic Infection Objective Laboratory Results: Advanced
-Nutrition Analysis
-Albumin:
-Normal Value: 3.6-5g/dl
-Value decreased with inflammation and malnutrition.
-Transport protein in liver with important functions in catabolism.
-Pre-albumin
-Normal Value: 19-36 mg/dL
-Not covered well in PRISM, but check out [Arnold M. Nutrition and Wound Healing. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2006 Jun; 117(7 Suppl):
42S-58S.]
-Blood Cultures
-Should be drawn from 2 sites; 20 minutes apart.
-Indicates bacteremia/septicemia
-Bone Biopsy
-Gold standard for diagnosis of osteomyelitis (discussed further later)
35
AJM Sheet: Gram Stain Results with Common Infective Agents:
-Spirochetes
Treponium pallidum
Borrelia burgdorferi
36
AJM Sheet: Imaging in Diabetic Foot Infections
-MRI
-Cellulitis: T1: Diffuse and infiltrative decreased signal intensity as inflammation replaces fat.
T2 and STIR: Increased signal intensity.
-OM: T1: Decreased signal intensity, cortical lysis and intramedullary changes.
-Increased signal intensity in known OM indicates healing as fat infiltrates.
T2: Increased signal intensity, cortical lysis, and intramedullary changes.
-Rim sign: thin layer of active infection surrounding normal bone.
-60% Specificity, 85% sensitivity per Termaat.
-Bone Scans
-A radio-isotope is injected into the patient and imaged at specific intervals.
-Phases: -Immediate Angiogram (1-3sec): Essentially an arteriogram.
-Blood Pool (3-5min): Demonstrates blood pooling in capillaries and veins.
-Delayed (2-4 hours): Increasingly specific to activity patterns and pathology.
-4th Phase: Increasingly specific to activity patterns and pathology.
-WBC Scans
-Same principles and phases as bone scan, but WBCs are tagged and followed instead.
-Gallium-67 Citrate
-Uptake by siderophore complex (direct bacteria) and lactoferrin (protein-released by bacteria)
-Scan taken 48-72 hours after injection or done in triphasic manner.
-Has longer half-life
-42% Specificity; 80% Sensitivity per Termaat.
-Indium-111 Oxime
-WBCs isolated from blood sample, labeled and re-injected.
-Scan at 24 hours. Half life: 67 hours.
-Predominantly uptaken by neutrophils, so it demonstrates acute infections better than chronic infections.
-Technetium-99m HMPAO
-WBCs isolated from blood samples, tagged and re-injected. Scan at 3 hours.
-Tagged molecule is HMPAO (hexamethylpropyleneamine oxime)
-Technically easier with less radiation than indium.
37
AJM Sheet: Diabetic Foot Ulcer Pathogenesis
-The pathogenesis of the diabetic foot ulcer can be described via three mechanisms: neuropathy, trauma and impaired
healing.
-Neuropathy
-30-50% of diabetics have some form of sensory, motor and/or autonomic neuropathy.
-Sorbitol accumulation in Schwann cells leads to hyperosmolarity of the nerve cells leading to swelling and
cellular lysis. This leads to decreased nerve signal conduction. Microvascular damage to the nerve (described later) also
impairs healing of the damaged nerve.
-Sensory Neuropathy
-Loss of light touch/protective sensation (anterior spinothalamic tract)
-Loss of vibratory/proprioception mechanisms (posterior tract)
-Loss of pain/temperature sensation (lateral tracts)
-The patient has no warning of current, developing or impending trauma.
-Motor Neuropathy
-“Intrinsic Minus” foot-type with wasting of the intrinsic muscles and extensor substitution.
-Undetected excess plantar pressures develop.
-Autonomic Neuropathy
-Damage occurs in the sympathetic ganglion
-AV shunting occurs with global LE edema not relieved by diuretics or elevation.
-Increased skin temperature predisposes to ulceration (Armstrong)
-Decreased sweating leads to xerosis and fissuring (portal for infection)
38
AJM Sheet: Diabetic Foot Infection Functional Anatomy
From: Essential Questions for Surgical Intervention of Diabetic Foot Infections (http://www.podiatrytoday.com/article/8134)
Dedicating yourself to the side of limb salvage in the fight against diabetic foot disease is a demanding and
personally challenging enterprise. In the face of infection, it often seems as though all variables are against the surgeon and
the patient as together, you struggle against proximal amputation and limb loss. In fact, it often appears as though the only
constant is the unpredictability of the disease progression. But one constant always on the side of the surgeon is anatomic
knowledge. The infection can only work with the anatomy that it is given, and this is certainly something that can be used to
your advantage. Your expert knowledge in lower extremity anatomy is one of the most valuable tools that you have in your
fight. It is a constant, and it is predictable.
There are different anatomic paradigms that must be considered in terms of the evaluation of the infection source.
Certainly depth is one of these paradigms. Absolute depth measurements offer very little clinical information when
compared to a functional view of depth from the surgical layers of dissection. An infection should be evaluated in terms of
whether it extends through the dermis, superficial fascia, deep fascia, musculotendinous structures or to the level of bone
(Table 1). From this general information, specific anatomic structures can then be identified as being within the path of the
infection.
Infections tend to develop and travel along the path of least resistance. This implies that an infection will stay
within the potential space of a given surgical layer or plantar compartment before extravasation into another layer or
compartment. Often, this involves proximal extension along the relatively avascular tendon sheaths or fascial planes between
muscular layers. The studies that have been used to define the number and boundaries of plantar foot compartments have
also given information about relatively consistent fascial clefts where communication between different layers and
compartments is likely. These have involved pressurized injection imaging studies where a known compartment is infiltrated
with a contrast medium and the extravasation into other compartments can be mapped. The findings of these studies are
summarized in Table 2. These communications are obviously numerous and complex. The important concept to realize is
that an infection is likely to initially develop within the potential space of a single layer or compartment. There is a tendency
for the infection to move proximally before communicating with another layer or compartment. Note however, that patterns
of communication are present along known anatomic structures such as tendons and neurovascular structures to each of the
other compartments, as well as the dorsum of the foot and plantar superficial fascia. Intra-operative investigation of an
infection should focus on these structures to trace the extent of plantar involvement. Also note the majority of these
communications are found in the forefoot around MPJ level, so distal infections have an increased likelihood of multi-
compartment involvement.
Table 1: Surgical Layers of Dissection Used for Diabetic Ulcer Depth Measurement
Skin
Superficial Fascia
-First Dissection Interval containing superficial neurovascular structures
Deep Fascia
-Second Dissection Interval containing muscular and deep neurovascular structures
Periosteum
-Third Dissection Interval
Bone
39
AJM Sheet: Osteomyelitis General
-Osteomyelitis is a complicated issue dealing with diabetic foot infections both in diagnosis and treatment. However, there
are several definitions, classification systems, diagnostic modalities and treatment tenets that you should be aware of.
-Others have done a little better job of differentiating acute vs. chronic OM:
-Weiland: Describes chronic OM as lasting > 6months.
-Schauwecker: Describes chronic OM as lasting > 6 weeks and one failed episode of tx.
-AJM has turned these definitions into a classification system that made more sense to him:
-Acute Osteomyelitis
-Contiguous/Direct Extension
-No PVD
-PVD
-Hematogenous Spread
-No PVD
-PVD
-Chronic Osteomyelitis
-Contiguous/Direct Extension
-No PVD
-PVD
-Hematogenous Spread
-No PVD
-PVD
-Cierny-Mader-Penninck Classification [A clinical staging system for adult osteomyelitis. CORR. 2003; (414): 7-24.]
-This is described as a classification, but doesn’t make much sense to AJM.
-Anatomic Stage
1: Medullary: infection of only the medullary canal (Stage 1)
2: Superficial: infection of only the superficial cortex (Stage 2)
3: Localized: infection of only the cortex (Stage 3)
4: Diffuse: infection of both the cortex and medullary canal (Stage 4)
-Physiologic Stage
A: Normal Host
Bs: Compromised Host with systemic risk factors (eg DM)
Bl: Compromised Host with local risk factors (eg smoking)
C: Treatment worse than the disease
-So a smoking DM patient with infection of only the superficial portion of the cortex is: 2Bs
-Obviously much more work needs to be done on the topic of osteomyelitis classification.
40
AJM Sheet: Osteomyelitis Diagnosis and Treatment
Treatment
-There is much controversy regarding long-term Abx (PO vs. IV vs. PMMA) vs. Surgical Debridement.
-The Cierny-Mader Classification makes some general recommendations:
-CM Stage 1: 2 weeks IV + 2-4 weeks PO Abx
-CM Stage 2: Surgical Debridement + 2 weeks IV
-CM Stage 3&4: Surgical Debridement + 4-6 weeks IV Abx
41
AJM Sheet: Charcot Neuroarthropathy
-Definition: Neuropathic osteoarthropathy first described by Musgrave in 1703 and named for JM Charcot in 1868.
-Pathogenesis:
-Neurovascular/French Theory/Theory of Charcot
-Trophic centers in the anterior horn of the spinal cord maintain nutrition to joints.
-Trauma to these trophic centers leads to increased blood flow and osteoclastic activity.
-Evidence for the Neurovascular Theory:
-Autonomic neuropathy in DM leads to increased AV shunting, edema and skin temperature.
-Boulton: Increased PO2 in venous system of Charcot pts (63mmHg vs. 46mmHg)
-Shows increased perfusion in neuropathic diabetics
-Edmonds: Increased blood velocity in neuropathic diabetics
-Young: Decreased bone density in patients with decreased nerve conduction velocities
-Cundy: Decreased bone density in Charcot patients
-Gough: Increased osteoclastic activity in Charcot patients
-Neurotraumatic/German Theory/Theory of Virchow and Volkmann
-Repeated trauma from biomechanical stresses during ambulation on an insensate foot.
-Evidence for the Neurotraumatic Theory:
-Eloesser and Johnson: Trauma is the necessary predisposing factor, and not underlying bone weakness, to
create Charcot changes in a neuropathic limb.
-Common sense
-Two opposing, fighting theories? Probably a little bit of both.
-DDx: OM, AVN, inflammatory arthritis, PVS, septic arthritis, CPPD, neoplasm, etc.
-Radiographic Findings:
-Atrophic: -With osteopenia, pencil&cup deformities, resorption of bone ends
-Without osteophytes, sclerosis, fragmentation, soft tissue debris
-Hypertrophic: -With joint space narrowing, fractures, fragmentation, ST debris, periosteal rxn, subluxation
-Without osteoporosis
-Be aware of both types.
-Treatment
-Acute: -Strict and immediate NWB and immobilization for 12-16 weeks.
-Edema control (Jones cast, ACE inhibitors, Diuretics, Posterior splint, Elevation, Ex Fix, etc.)
-Education and family support
-FXR every 4-6 weeks with relatively few cast changes
-Transition: -Transition to WB (CAM walker, CROW, Bracing, MAFO, Shoes, etc.)
-Permanent: -Surgical correction of underlying deformity
-Consider TAL, Arthrodesis, Wedging osteotomies, Amputation
-Adjunctive: -Bone stimulators
-Bisphosphonates: -Pamidronate (Aredia): 60-90mg over 24h. 3 doses in 2 weeks.
-Alendronate (Fosamax): 5mg PO q24h.
42
AJM Sheet: Charcot Classifications
-Schon Classification [Charcot neuroarthropathy of the foot and ankle. CORR. 1998; 349: 116-131.]
-Describes location and severity of condition
I: Lisfranc Pattern
-AC with increasing deformity to medial rockerbottom and ulceration.
II: Naviculocunieform Pattern
-AC with increasing deformity to lateral rockerbottom and ulceration.
III: Perinavicular Pattern
-AC with lateral rockerbottom, Talar AVN and ulceration.
IV: Transverse Tarsal Pattern
-AC with increasing deformity to central rockerbottom and ulceration.
43
AJM Sheet: Differentiating Osteomyelitis from Charcot
-Please keep in mind that these are not mutually exclusive and both can be present!
-These are just general guidelines and many people will vehemently argue them.
-The gold standard is a bone biopsy which would show infection in OM and not in Charcot.
Subjective
-OM: Constitutional signs and symptoms of infection, infectious risk factors, history of infection.
-Charcot: Uncontrolled DM, history of Charcot, history of recent trauma.
Objective
-OM: Necrosis, pustular drainage, elevated white count, cultures, positive bone biopsy.
-Charcot: Increased joint laxity, non-pitting edema, bounding pulses, rockerbottom deformity, negative bone biopsy.
Imaging
-Not enough evidence yet, but some believe that OM is positive on bone scans and WBC scans for greater than 24 hours
whereas Charcot neuroarthropathy is only positive during the first 24 hours.
-The Tc99 Sulfur Colloid scan would also theoretically be positive for infection, but not for Charcot.
-Not too much here, but check out some further reading:
-Soysal N, et al. Differential diagnosis of Charcot arthropathy and osteomyelitis. Neuro Endocrinol Lett. 2007 Oct; 28(5): 556-559.
-Shank CF, Feibel JB. Osteomyelitis in the diabetic foot: diagnosis and management. Foot Ankle Clin. 2006 Dec; 11(4): 775-89.
-Ledermann HP, Morrison WB. Differential diagnosis of pedal osteomyelitis and diabetic neuroarthropathy: MR Imaging. Semin Musculoskelet Radiol.
2005 Sep; 9(3): 272-83.
-Berendt AR, Lipsky B. Is this bone infected or not? Differentiating neuron-osteoarthropathy from osteomyelitis in the diabetic foot. Curr Diab Rep. 2004
Dec; 4(6): 424-9.
-Yu GV, Hudson JR. Evaluation and treatment of stage 0 Charcot’s neuroarthropathy of the foot and ankle. J Am Podiatr Med Assoc. 2002 Apr; 92(4): 210-
20.
-Schon LC, et al. Charcot neuroarthropathy of the foot and ankle. Clin Orthop Relat Res. 1998 Apr;(349): 116-31.
-Berendt AT, Peters EJ, et al. Diabetic foot osteomyelitis: a progress report on diagnosis and a systemic review of treatment. Diabetes Metab Res Rev. 2008;
24(S1): S145-S161.
44
AJM Sheet: Common Situational Bugs
-Fetid Foot with necrosis and gangrene: -Resistant Gram positive cocci
-Mixed GNR
-Anaerobes
-Polymicrobial
-Human mouth pathogens (HACEK): -Haemophilus, Actinobacillus, Cardiobacterium hominis, Eikenella corrodens, Kingella
kingae
-Cat bite: -Pasteurella multocida -Dog bite: -Strept viridans, Capnocytophaga canimorsus
45
AJM Sheet: Empiric Antibiotic Choices
-Vancomycin -Synercid
-Clindamycin -Bactrim/Rifampin
-Zyvox -Cubicin
Generalized Anaerobes:
46
AJM Sheet: IDSA Empiric Recommendations
-from Lipsky BA, et al. Diagnosis and Treatment of Diabetic Foot Infections. IDSA Guidelines. CID 2004; 39: 885-910.
-Uninfected Wound
-Definition: No purulence, inflammatory manifestations, or systemic manifestations
-Empiric Therapy: None
47
AJM Sheet: Common Infective Agents with DOC:
DOC Alternatives
-Aerobic Gram Positive Cocci
Staph aureus 1-Ceph Vanco, Clinda, Azithromycin
MRSA Vanco Bactrim, Cubicin, Zyvox, Clinda
Staph epi 2-PCN 4-PCN, 1,2-Ceph, Vanco
MRSE Vanco Zyvox, Cubicin, Synercid
Enterococcus 3-PCN Vanco, Tetracyclines, Quinolones
VRE Linezolid Macrobid, Cubicin, Chloramphenicol
Strept pyogenes (Group A) 3-PCN 4-PCN, 1,2-Ceph, Vanco, Clinda
Strept agalactiae (Group B) 3-PCN 4-PCN, 1,2-Ceph, Vanco, Clinda
Strept bovis (Group D) 3-PCN 4-PCN, 1,2-Ceph, Vanco, Clinda
Strept Viridans 3-PCN 4-PCN, 1,2-Ceph, Vanco, Clinda
-Spirochetes
Treponium pallidum 1-PCN Tetracyclines, Macrolides
Borrelia burgdorferi 1-PCN Amox, Macrolides
48
AJM Sheet: Antibiotics/Drugs of Choice
1. Staph Aureus
-PO: Keflex -500mg PO tid or 750mg PO bid
Clindamycin -300mg PO qid
Zithromycin -500mg PO day 1, 250mg PO days 2-5
-IV: Ancef -1g IV q8
Vancomycin -1g IV q12
Clindamycin -600mg IV q8
2. Streptococcus
-PO: Keflex -500mg PO tid or 750mg PO bid
Clindamycin -300mg PO qid
-IV: Ancef -1g IV q8
Vancomycin -1g IV q12
Clindamycin -600mg IV q8
3. MRSA
-IV: Vancomycin -1g IV q12
-PO: Bactrim -1 tablet PO bid
Rifampin 300mg + Minocycline 100mg PO bid
4. Enterococcus
-PO: Amoxicillin -250-500mg tid
Augmentin -875mg bid or 500mg tid (or bid)
Zyvox -600mg PO bid
-IV: Vancomycin -1g IV q12
Zyvox -600mg IVq12
5. VRA/VRE
-PO: Zyvox -600mg PO bid
-IV: Zyvox -600mg IV q12
Synercid -7.5mg/kg/hr over 1 hour q12
6. Pseudomonas
-PO: Ciprofloxacin -250-750mg PO bid
-IV: Ciprofloxacin -400mg IV q12
Fortaz -2g IV q12
Aztreonam -1g IV q8
7. E.coli, Proteus
-PO: Keflex -500mg PO tid or 750mg PO bid
Cipro -250-750mg PO bid
Levaquin -500mg PO qday
Tequin -400mg PO qday
-IV: Ancef -1g IV q8
Cipro -400mg IV q12
Levaquin -500mg IV qday
Tequin -400mg IV qday
49
AJM Sheet: Antibiotic Dosing Guide
Penicillins
1st Generation: -Pen V: 500mg q6 PO
-Pen G: 250,000 units/kg/day IV
2nd Generation: -Dicloxacillin: 250mg q6 PO
-Oxacillin: 1-2g q4 IV
-Nafcillin: 1-2g q4 IV
3rd Generation: -Amoxicillin: 500mg q8 PO
-Ampicillin: 1g q4-6 IV
4th Generation: -Augmentin: 875mg q12 PO
-Unasyn: 3g q6 IV
-Zosyn: 4.5g q6 IV
-Timentin: 3.1g q6 IV
Cephalosporins
1st Generation: -Keflex: 500mg q8 PO or 750mg PO bid
-Duricef : 2g q24 PO
-Ancef: 1g q8 IV
2nd Generation: -Ceftin: 500mg q12 PO
-Zinacef: 1.5g q8 IV
-Mefoxin: 1g q6 IV
3rd Generation: -Omnicef: 300mg q12 PO
-Vantin: 400mg q12 PO
-Rocephin: 1g q24 IV
-Fortaz: 1g q8 IV
-Cefobid: 2g q12 IV
4th Generation: -Maxipime: 2g q12 IV
Quinolones
2nd Generation: -Ciprofloxacin: 750mg q12 PO/400mg q12 IV
3rd Generation: -Levofloxacin: 500mg q24 PO/IV
4th Generation: -Tequin: 400 q12 PO/IV
-Avelox: 400 q24 PO
50
AJM Sheets: Trauma
Trauma is another area that is often highlighted during the interview process. This section first details a
trauma-specific work-up, and then goes through some specific traumatic conditions.
In terms of the interview, you generally will be expected to work-up, diagnose and classify based on
radiographs, CTs and MRIs. While you should certainly have an understanding of treatment interventions and
protocols, this will probably be less emphasized than diagnosis and classification.
A lot of these classifications are very visual (and I don’t have room for that in 100 pages), so I’ve tried to
include a lot of specific references with pictures of the classifications (mostly to McGlamry’s and Gumann’s texts).
I’ve also tried to include a lot of references to “classic” articles and review articles. Textbooks with good
trauma information for additional reading include specific ones (Gumann’s, Scurran’s, Rang’s, etc), but also general
ones (McGlamry’s, Myerson’s, Hansen’s, etc).
I said that while I was studying for the Diabetic Foot Infection work-up, I tried to learn as much as possible
on the topic and really tried to “wow” the attendings at the interview. However, my strategy was different when
dealing with trauma and the specific surgical work-ups. Here I tried to demonstrate “competence” as opposed to
“mastery” of the material. With specific surgeries, you’re really not supposed to have strong, pre-formed opinions
as a student or as an intern. That’s what your residency is for; developing surgical opinions. If you already know
what to do in every surgical situation, then what’s the point of doing a residency? So while on externships and at the
interview, you should really try to walk a fine line between:
1. Displaying competence in knowledge of the baseline material
2. Displaying that you still have a lot to learn, and that you are eager to learn it
Contents:
-The Trauma Work-Up (page 52)
-General Trauma Topics (pages 53-54)
-Digital Fractures (page 55)
-Sesamoid Trauma (page 56)
-Metatarsal Fractures (page 57)
-5th Metatarsal Fractures (page 58)
-Metatarsal Stress Fractures (page 59)
-LisFranc Trauma (page 60)
-Navicular Trauma (page 61)
-Talar Fractures (page 62)
-Calcaneal Fractures (page 63)
-Ankle Fractures (pages 64-65)
-General Tendon Trauma (page 66)
-Achilles Tendon Work-up (page 67)
-Achilles Tendon Treatment (page 68)
51
AJM Sheet: Trauma Work-up
-The Trauma Work-up is very similar to the regular patient work-up, but with a few things added. You still need to go
through the HPI, PMH, PSH, Meds, Allergies, SH, FH, ROS and complete physical exam in that order. In addition, there
are three other topics that you need to address on every trauma patient for every work-up:
-Secondary Survey: This is when you go through a normal history including HPI, PMH, etc. and a
comprehensive physical exam.
2. Tetanus Status
-Clostridium tetani is a racquet-shaped gram-positive bacillus. It releases an exotoxin causing a pre-sympathetic
blockade.
-Triad of tetanus symptoms: Trismus, Risus Sardonicus, and Aphagia.
-Characteristics of a tetanus-prone wound: greater than 6 hours old, clinical signs of infection, deep, devitalized
tissue, contamination, traumatic mechanism of injury, etc.
-Incomplete tetanus status: -Clean wound: Give the toxoid; Hold the TIG
(No booster within 5 years) -Tetanus-prone wound: Give the toxoid; Give the TIG
-Complete tetanus status: -Clean wound: Hold the toxoid; Hold the TIG
(Booster within 5 years) -Tetanus-prone wound: Hold the toxoid; Hold the TIG
3. NPO status
-All trauma patients are potential surgical candidates, so get this information for the weenie anesthesiologists.
-Traditional guidelines recommend:
-Nothing by mouth after midnight the night before elective surgery
-Nothing by mouth within 6-8 hours of any type of surgery
-These strict guidelines are in the process of changing however, particularly with regard to allowing the ingestion
of small amounts of clear liquids up to the time of surgery. If interested, please read:
-[Brady M, Kinn S, Stuart P. Preoperative fasting for adults to prevent perioperative complications. Cochrane
Database Syst Rev. 2003; (4): CD004423.]
-[Murphy GS, et al. The effect of a new NPO policy on operating room utilization. J Clin Anesth. 2000 Feb; 12(1):
48-51.]
52
AJM Sheet: General Trauma Topics
-In addition to having a good trauma work-up, there are a few other things that are helpful to know regarding foot and ankle
trauma.
3. Open Fractures
-Note that 30% of lower extremity open fractures are associated with polytrauma.
-Mainstays of treatment: Aggressive incision and drainage with copious lavage.
-It is generally recommended to never primarily close an open fracture until devitalized soft tissue has demarcated,
but this certainly isn’t always the case in practice. In fact, the Ortho Trauma service at INOVA routinely primarily closes
open fractures following I&D with ORIF.
-Gustilo-Anderson Classification of Open Fractures [Gustilo RB, Anderson JT. Prevention of infection in the treatment of one
thousand and twenty-five open fractures of long bones: retrospective and prospective analyses. JBJS-Am. 1976; 58(4): 453-8.]
I. Clean Wound <1cm in diameter
-Abx choice: 1st generation cephalosporin (Ancef)
II. Wound 1.0-5.0cm in diameter with minimal soft tissue damage
-Abx choice: Ancef, Clindamycin
III. Wound >5cm in diameter with extensive soft tissue damage
-Abx choice: Ancef (or high dose PCN), Clindamycin and Aminoglycoside
-IIIA: Adequate soft tissue coverage
-IIIB: Extensive soft tissue damage with periosteal stripping and massive contamination
-IIIC: Arterial damage requiring primary repair
4. Fracture Blisters
-Location: Subepidermal
-Note that the fluid is sterile. Fracture blisters are histologically similar to 2nd degree burns.
-Most common LE etiology? Secondary to high-energy trauma such as ankle fx, calcaneus fx or Lisfranc injury.
-2 Common Types of Fracture Blisters
-Clear fluid: Most common (75%). Very tense in appearance.
-Hemorrhagic: Most severe. Roof is flaccid. Takes longer to re-epithelialize.
-Treatment is controversial, but the conservative approach is to never incise through a fracture blister and to delay
surgery until re-epithelialization.
-[Strauss EJ, et al. Blisters associated with lower-extremity fracture: results of a prospective treatment protocol. J Orthop Trauma. 2006 Oct;
20(9): 618-22.]
5. Shock
-Signs/Symptoms of Shock: Tachycardia, Tachypnea, delayed capillary refill, decreased pulse pressure, change in
mental status, decreased systolic pressure, decreased urinary output and decreased H&H.
-Types of Shock:
-Hypovolemic: most common; defined as the acute loss of circulating blood. Treatment is aggressive fluid
replacement.
-Cardiogenic: induced by myocardial dysfunction.
-Neurogenic: secondary to decreased sympathetic tone from head and spinal cord injuries.
-Septic: shock secondary to infection.
-Goal of Treatment: restore organ perfusion.
53
AJM Sheet: General Trauma Topics
-Foreign Bodies/Puncture Wounds
-When should a foreign body be removed?
-Clinical signs of infection, known contaminated object, pain, object close to NV elements, intra-articular
-Recommended imaging studies for a foreign body?
-Plain film radiography (no oblique views!), fluoroscopy, CT, MRI, US
-How will wooden objects appear on US?
-hyperechoic with a hypoechoic dark shadow
-How large must a glass foreign body be to be visible on plain film radiography? Does leaden matter?
-A piece of glass, regardless of whether it is leaden, must be >5mm to be visible.
-Classification for foreign bodies?
-Resnick Classification [Resnick CD. Puncture wounds: therapeutic considerations and a new classification. J Foot Surg. 1990
Mar-Apr; 29(2): 147-53.]
-I. Superficial/cutaneous: usually visible without signs of infection.
-II. Subcutaneous or articular without signs of infection.
-IIIA. Subcutaneous or articular with signs of infection.
-IIIB. Bone penetration without signs of infection.
-IV. Bone penetration with known osteomyelitis.
-Patzakis Classification [Patzakis MJ. Wound site as a predictor of complications following deep nail punctures of the foot. West
J Med. 1989 May; 150(5): 545-7.]
-Zone 1: Toe to met head (50% incidence of osteomyelitis in this limited study.)
-Zone 2: Midfoot (17% incidence of osteomyelitis in this limited study.)
-Zone 3: Calcaneus (33% incidence of osteomyelitis in this limited study.)
-Puncture wound common bugs
-Most common? Staph Aureus
-2nd most common? Beta-hemolytic strept
-Puncture through shoe gear? Pseudomonas
-Puncture involving soil or a farm? Clostridia
-Human bites? Eikenella corrodens
-Cat bites? Pasteurella multocida
-Dog bites? Enterobacter, Pseudomonas, Staph, Bacillus
-Mainstays of foreign body/puncture wound treatment?
-Tetanus status, antibiotics, aggressive I&D with copious lavage
-Compartment Syndrome
-First described by Volkmann. Myerson has good articles/chapters on this topic.
-[Perry MD, Manoli A. Foot compartment syndrome. Orthop Clin North Am. 2001 Jan; 32(1): 103-11.]
-[Myerson M, Manoli A. Compartment syndromes of the foot after calcaneal fractures. Clin Orthop Relat Res. 1993 May: 142-50.]
-Results when interstitial pressure exceeds capillary hydrostatic pressure, so the microcirculation shuts down.
-The foot has anywhere from 3-11 compartments depending on who you read:
-Intermetatarsal Compartments X 4: contains the interossei muscles
-Medial Compartment: Abductor Hallucis
-Lateral Compartment: Abductor digiti minimi
-Superficial Central Compartment: FDB
-Deep Central Compartment: Adductor Hallucis
-Calcaneal Compartment: Quadratus Plantae and lateral plantar artery
-Dorsal Compartment: EHB and EDB
-P’s of Compartment Syndrome (These are very generalized.)
-Pain out of proportion and not controlled by analgesics -Paralysis
-Pain with passive dorsiflexion of the toes -Pulselessness
-Paresthesia -Pressure
-Pallor
-Diagnosis
-Normal compartment pressure? 0-5mm Hg
-When do you start getting worried? 20-30mm Hg
-When do you consider surgical intervention? >30-40mm Hg
-How is diagnosis made? Wick or slit catheter to measure compartment pressures
-Treatment
-Decompression via fasciotomy, debridement of necrotic tissue, copious lavage and delayed closure
-Incision approaches: Consider dorsal vs. medial approaches
-Complications: permanent loss of function with structural deformity (Volkmann contractures), myoneural necrosis, sensory
loss, chronic pain
54
AJM Sheet: Digital Fractures
-Even suspected digital fractures should be worked up according to a standard, full trauma work-up during the interview if
the case is presented as a trauma. The following describes unique subjective findings, objective findings, diagnostic
classifications and treatment.
Subjective
-History of trauma. “Bedpost” fracture describes stubbing your toe while walking at night. Also common are injuries from
dropping objects on the foot.
Objective
-Edema, erythema, ecchymosis, open lesions, subungual hematoma, and onycholysis should all be expected.
-Any rotational/angulation deformities should be identified on plain film radiograph.
Diagnostic Classifications
-Rosenthal Classification [Rosenthal EA. Treatment of fingertip and nail bed injuries. Orthop Clin North Am. 1983; 14: 675-697.]
-Zone I: Injury occurs with damaged tissue completely distal to the distal aspect of the phalanx.
-Zone II: Injury occurs with damaged tissue completely distal to the lunula.
-Zone III: Injury occurs with damaged tissue completely distal to the most distal joint (IPJ in hallux; DIPJ in
lesser).
Treatment
-Zone I Injuries
-If injury involves no exposed bone and a total tissue loss less than 1cm squared, then:
-Allow to heal in by secondary intention.
-If injury involves a total tissue loss greater than 1cm squared, then:
-A STSG or FTSG should be used depending on weight-bearing position.
-Zone II Injuries
-Flaps and Skin Grafts generally employed:
-Atasoy flap: plantar V Y advancement
-[Atasoy E. Reconstruction of the amputated fingertip with a triangular volar flap. JBJS-Am 1970; 52: 921-926.]
-Kutler flap: biaxial V Y advancement
-[Kutler W. A new method for fingertip amputation. JAMA 1947; 133: 29-30.]
-Zone III Injuries
-Usually requires distal amputation (Distal Symes amputation)
Miscellaneous Notes
-Hallux fracture is regarded as the most common forefoot fracture.
-Digital fractures without nail involvement and displacement/angulation/rotation can be treated conservatively with
immobilization.
-If a subungual hematoma is present, then there is a 25% incidence of underlying phalanx fracture.
-If a subungual hematoma covers >25% of the nail, then the nail should be removed.
-Only 1mm squared of free space from onycholysis is necessary for hematoma development.
-For proper nail function and adherence, there should be no onycholysis within 5mm of the lunula.
-A Beau’s line is a transverse groove often associated with nail trauma.
55
AJM Sheet: Sesamoid Trauma
-The following describes unique subjective findings, objective findings, diagnostic classifications and treatments.
Subjective
-History of trauma is very important in this case. You want to differentiate between acute and chronic conditions involving
the sesamoids. Be careful to elicit any neurologic complaints that could be present.
Objective
-Expect edema, erythema, ecchymosis and open lesions. Take the time for proper palpation.
-Joplin’s neuroma is irritation of the medial plantar proper digital nerve.
-Associated with rigidly plantarflexed first metatarsals, anterior cavus, etc.
-One of the most difficult things to differentiate is an acute sesamoid fracture from a bipartite sesamoid. There are
several generic plain film radiographic characteristics found in acute fractures:
-Jagged, irregular and uneven spacing
-Large space between fragments
-Abnormal anatomy
-Bone callus formation
-Comparison to a contra-lateral view
Diagnostic Classifications
-Jahss Classification [Jahss MH. Traumatic dislocations of the first metatarsophalangeal joint. Foot Ankle. 1980 Jul; 1(1): 15-21.]
-Type I
-Mechanism: Dorsal dislocation of the hallux
-Intersesamoid ligament: Intact
-Fracture?: No sesamoid fracture
-Treatment: Requires open reduction
-Type IIA
-Mechanism: Dorsal dislocation of the hallux
-Intersesamoid ligament: Ruptured
-Fracture?: No sesamoid fracture
-Treatment: Closed reduction/Conservative Care
-Type IIB
-Mechanism: Dorsal dislocation of the hallux
-Intersesamoid ligament: Ruptured
-Fracture?: Fracture of at least one sesamoid
-Treatment: Closed reduction/Conservative Care
-Type II Variant
-Mechanism: Dorsal dislocation of the hallux
-Intersesamoid ligament: Ruptured
-Fracture?: Separation of a bipartite sesamoid
-Treatment: Closed reduction/Conservative Care
Treatments
-Conservative
-Immobilization (NWB SLC, PWB SLC, Surgical Shoe, CAM Walker, etc.)
-Dancer’s Pad
-Surgical
-Excision of the fractured fragment or entire sesamoid
Miscellaneous Notes
-Ilfeld’s Disease: Agenesis of the fibular sesamoid
-[Ilfeld FW, Rosen V. Osteochondritis of the first metatarsal sesamoid. CORR 1972; 85: 38-41.]
-Incidence of Bipartite Sesamoid in Population:
-As much as Kewenter: 35.5%
-As few as Inge: 10.7% with 75% of cases being unilateral
56
AJM Sheet: Metatarsal Fractures
-The following describes unique subjective findings, objective findings, diagnostic classifications and treatments.
57
AJM Sheet: 5th Metatarsal Base Fractures
-The following describes unique subjective findings, objective findings, diagnostic classifications and treatments.
Diagnostic Classifications
Stewart Classification
-[Stewart IM. Jones fracture: Fracture of the base of the fifth metatarsal bone. Clin Orthop. 1960; 16: 190-8.]
-Type I: Extra-articular fx at metaphyseal-diaphyseal junction (True Jones Fracture)
-MOI: Internal rotation of the forefoot while the base of 5th met remains fixed
-Radiographic findings: -Usually oblique or transverse fx at metaphyseal-diaphyseal junction
-Treatment: -NWB SLC 4-6 weeks for non-displaced fractures
-ORIF with displacement >5mm
-Misc: -Fracture first described by Sir Robert Jones in 1902 from injuring himself while ballroom
dancing. [Jones R. Fracture of the base of the fifth metatarsal bone by indirect violence. Ann Surg. 1902; 35(6): 776-82.]
-Very unstable fracture with high incidence of non-union/delayed union secondary to variable
blood supply. Remember that the diaphysis and metaphysis are generally supplied by two different arterial sources.
-[Smith JW. The intraosseous blood supply of the fifth metatarsal: implications for proximal fracture healing. Foot Ankle.
1992 Mar-Apr; 13(3): 143-52.]
Torg Classification
[Torg JS, et al. Fractures of the base of the fifth metatarsal distal to the tuberosity. JBJS-Am. 1984; 66(2): 209-14.]
-Radiographic classification of Jones fractures describing potential for non-union development.
-Type I: Acute injuries
-Radiographic findings: Narrow fracture line without intra-medullary sclerosis
-Type II: Delayed Union
-Radiographic findings: Widened fracture intersurface with evidence of IM sclerosis
-Type III: Non-Union
-Radiographic findings: Complete sclerotic obliteration of the IM canal
58
AJM Sheet: Stress Fracture Work-up
Also called: March fx, Hairline fx, Fatigue fx, Insufficiency fx, Deutschlander’s dz, Bone exhaustion, etc.
-Subjective
-CC: Patient presents complaining of a diffuse foot and ankle pain. Classic patient is a military recruit or athlete.
-HPI: -Nature: Pain described as “sharp with WB” or “sore/aching.” May have element of “shooting” pain.
-Location: Described as diffuse, but can be localized with palpation. Common areas include dorsal metatarsal or
distal tib/fib.
-Course: Subacute onset. Usually related to an increase in patient’s physical activity.
-Aggravating factors: Activity
-Alleviating factors: PRICE
-PMH: -Look for things that would weaken bone (eg. Osteoporosis)
-SH: -Look for recent increases in physical activity or a generally active patient
-PSH/Meds/All/FH/ROS: Usually non-contributory
-Objective
Physical Exam
-Derm: -Generalized or localized edema
-Ecchymosis is rare
-Vasc/Neuro: Usually non-contributory
-Ortho: -Painful on localized palpation (positive pinpoint tenderness)
-Possible pain with tuning fork
-Imaging
-Plain Film Radiograph: -Localized loss of bone density and bone callus formation are hallmark signs
-Note that there must be a 30-50% loss of bone mineralization before radiographic presentation
of decreased bone density. This generally takes 10-21 days in a stress fracture.
-Bone Scan: -Increased uptake in all phases regardless of time of presentation
-Treatment
-Conservative treatment is mainstay:
-Immobilization and NWB for 4-6 weeks (SLC, Unna boot, surgical shoe, etc.)
-Be certain of anatomic position with no angulation/rotation/displacement (very uncommon)
59
AJM Sheet: Lisfranc Trauma
-History
-Dr. Jacques Lisfranc was a French gynecologist who was called into the service of Napoleon’s army where he served as a trauma surgeon in the 1820’s and
30’s. He also served under Dr. Dupuytren during this time.
-Del Sel first described Lisfranc dislocations following equine injuries (JBJS 1955).
-Anatomy
-Tarsometatarsal joint: 9 bones, ~13 joints, 7 weak dorsal ligaments, 7 strong plantar ligaments, the Lisfranc ligament
-Myerson described three functional columns of the Lisfranc joint. Ouzounian and Shereff described the sagittal plane motion of each of these columns.
-Medial Column: 1st met and medial cuneiform: 4mm of motion in the sagittal plane.
-Central Column: 2nd/3rd mets and central/lateral cuneiforms. 1mm of motion in sagittal plane.
-Lateral Column: 4th/5th mets and cuboid. 10mm of motion in the sagittal plane.
-Mechanism of Injury
-Accounts for 0.2% of all traumatic injuries. Most common in MVA and sports injuries.
-Occurs either by direct crushing (i.e. dropping something on the foot) or indirectly (usually a plantarflexed and abducted foot).
-Diagnosis
-Clinical
-Midfoot pain and tenderness. Possibly exacerbated with pronation, abduction or plantarflexion.
-Plantar ecchymosis
-Be wary of compartment syndrome! Always check neurovascular status.
-Imaging
-Plain Film Radiography
-Pathognomonic “fleck sign” representing an avulsion fx in the 1st IM space.
-Look for deviations from normal in the AP, MO and Lat views. Normal is:
-AP: Medial border of the 2nd met continuous with the medial border of the central cuneiform. Lateral border of the
medial cuneiform continuous with the medial border of the central cuneiform.
-MO: Medial border of the 4th met continuous with the medial border of the cuboid. Lateral border of the 3rd met
continuous with the lateral border of the lateral cuneiform.
-Lat: No sagittal displacement. Look for lateral column shortening with a “nutcracker fracture” of the cuboid.
-“Lisfranc variant” is fracture damage extending proximally into the cuboid-navicular region.
-Consider stress radiographs with the foot in plantarflexion or abduction.
-CT, Bone Scan, MRI could all be utilized.
-Classifications
-Classification originally described by Quenu and Kuss, then modified by Hardcastle, then modified by Myerson. The Myerson Classification is
listed with the Quenu and Kuss equivalent in parentheses.
-Type A: Total incongruity in any plane (QK: Homolateral)
-Type B: Partial incongruity (QK: Isolateral)
-B1: 1st met goes medial
-B2: Lesser mets go lateral
-Type C: Divergent (QK: Divergent)
-C1: Partial (only 1st and 2nd mets involved)
-C2: Total (all mets involved)
-Treatment
-Literature strongly favors ORIF with any displacement (>2mm between the 1st and 2nd mets). Exact anatomic reduction is the key to prognosis.
-Non-operative
-If plain film and stress radiographs show no displacement, then NWB SLC for 6 weeks with films q2 weeks looking specifically for
displacement.
-Operative
-Goal: Reduction and stabilization of the medial and central columns. You must reduce the lateral column, but it is usually left unfixed because
of the pronating mobile adapter mechanism. The medial and central columns do not have as much sagittal plane motion, but you still don’t want excess
compression with associated chondrolysis to develop.
-Fixation:
-1st met to medial cuneiform, 2nd met to central cuneiform, and 3rd met to lateral cuneiform with crossed 0.062” K-wires (removed at 8
weeks), cannulated cancellous screws (removed at ~12 weeks) or 3.5mm corticals. Consider putting a notch 1.5cm distal to the joint for screw to prevent
stress risers. Drill the hole for the screw in the superior aspect of the notch and not the base to prevent splitting the base.
-Consider 4th met to cuboid and 5th met to cuboid with a single 0.062” K-wire
-Lisfranc Screw: Medial cuneiform to 2nd met base, screw in a lag fashion
-Length of the lateral column must be restored following a “nutcracker fracture.” Consider using an H-plate or external fixation.
-Incisions:
-Longitudinal over the 1st IM space (provides access to 1,2,3) and longitudinal over the 4th IM space (provides access to 3,4,5).
-Longitudinal in the 1st IM space, 3rd IM space and lateral to the 5th met.
-Post-Operative
-NWB SLC for 8 weeks transitioned to PWB SLC for 4 weeks transitioned to rehab. High impact activity can usually be resumed at 6 months.
-Complications
-ARTHRITIS! Essentially everyone develops post-traumatic arthritis to some extent.
Additional Reading:
-[Myerson M. The diagnosis and treatment of injuries to the Lisfranc joint complex. Orthop Clin North Am. 1989; 20(4): 655-64.]
-[Hardcastle PH, et al. Injuries to the tarsometatarsal joint. Incidence, classification, and treatment. JBJS-Br. 1982; 64(3): 349-56.]
-[Desmond EA, Chou LB. Current concepts review: Lisfranc injuries. Foot Ankle Int. 2006; 27(8): 653-60.]
60
AJM Sheet: Navicular Trauma
-Suspected navicular trauma should be worked up with a primary and secondary survey. The following describes unique
subjective findings, objective findings, diagnostic classifications and treatments.
Subjective
-History of trauma ranges from contusions to ankle sprains to forced abduction/plantarflexion of the forefoot.
Objective
-MMT of the posterior tibialis tendon is important in these cases.
-Multiple view plain film radiographs are extremely important because of the possible obliquity of some fractures. CT scans
and MR images may also be necessary for complete visualization and analysis of stress fractures.
Relevant Anatomy
-The navicular is surrounded by a number of joints of varying stability. The TNJ proximally is very mobile, while the distal
NCJ and lateral NCJ are very stable. The navicular is also very stable medially because of the insertion of the PT tendon.
-Vascular anatomy to the navicular can be extremely important as described by Sarrafian:
-It has been demonstrated that the central 1/3 of the navicular is relatively avascular.
-The dorsalis pedis artery adequately supplies the dorsal and medial aspects.
-The medial plantar artery adequately supplies the plantar and lateral aspects.
-The central 1/3 has variable, radially-projecting branches from anastomosis of these arteries.
Diagnostic Classification
-Watson-Jones Classification
-Type I: Navicular Tuberosity Fractures
-Occur secondary to eversion and posterior tibialis contracture
-Watch for associated “nutcracker fracture” of cuboid and anterior calcaneal process fractures
-Must be differentiated from accessory navicular
-Treatment: -Displacement <5mm:
-Conservative immobilization
-Displacement >5mm consider:
-Excision of fragment with reattachment of tendon
-ORIF with a cancellous screw
-Type II: Dorsal Lip Avulsion Fractures
-Occur secondary to plantarflexion/frontal plane mechanisms.
-Must differentiate from os supranaviculare and os supratalare accessory ossicles.
-Generally intra-articular
-Generally treated with conservative immobilization
-Type III: Navicular Body Fractures. Described by Sangeorzan.
-[Sangeorzan BJ, et al. Displaced intra-articular fractures of the tarsal navicular. JBJS-Am. 1989; 71(10): 1504-10.]
-IIIA: Coronal Plane Fracture with no angulation
-~100% successful reduction usually achieved
-IIIB: Dorso-lateral to Plantar-medial fracture with adduction of the forefoot
-67% successful reduction usually achieved
-IIIC: Comminution with abduction of the forefoot
-50% successful reduction usually achieved
61
AJM Sheet: Talar Fractures
-Talar fractures are generally associated with high energy trauma, and a standard evaluation with primary and secondary surveys
should precede any specific talar evaluation. The following describes unique subjective findings, objective findings, diagnostic
classifications and treatment considerations.
Subjective
-History of trauma with a high incidence of MVC. The classic description of a talar neck fracture comes from a forced dorsiflexion
of the foot on the ankle (“aviator’s astragulus”). Talar fractures account for approximately 1% of all foot and ankle fractures.
Objective
-Important to verify neurovascular status, and rule out dislocations and compartment syndromes.
-Imaging: -Canale View: Plain film radiograph taken with the foot in a plantarflexed position. The foot is also pronated
15 degrees with the tube head orientated 75 degrees cephalad. This view allows for evaluation of angular
deformities of the talar neck.
-CT scan is essential for complete evaluation and surgical planning.
Relevant Anatomy
-An intimate knowledge of the vascular supply to the talus is essential with regard to avascular necrosis (AVN):
-Dorsalis Pedis: Supply the superior aspect of the head and neck (artery of the superior neck)
-Anastomoses with the peroneal and perforating peroneal arteries
-Artery to the sinus tarsi: supplies the lateral aspect of the talar body
-Forms an anastomotic sling with the artery of the tarsal canal
-Posterior Tibial Artery:
-Deltoid branch: medial aspect of the talar body
-Artery of the canalis tarsi: majority of the talar body
-Forms an anastomotic sling with the artery of the tarsal sinus
-Also sends branches to the posterior process
-Peroneal/Perforating Peroneal Artery: supplies posterior and lateral aspects of the talar body
-Anastomoses with the dorsalis pedis artery branches
Classifications/Named Fractures:
Hawkins Classification: Talar neck fractures Berndt and Harty: Talar dome fractures
Type I: Non-displaced (~13% incidence of AVN) Type 1: Chondral Depression
Type II: Displaced fracture with STJ dislocation (~50% incidence) Type 2: Partial chondral fracture, seen on MRI
Type III: Displaced fracture with STJ and ankle dislocation (~95%) Type 3: Nondisplaced complete osteochondral fracture
Type IV: Displaced fracture with STJ/ankle/TN dislocation (>95%) Type 4: Displaced complete osteochondral fracture
-(Type IV added by Canale and Kelly)
Treatment
-NWB in SLC 6-8 weeks versus ORIF depending on nature of fracture and degree of displacement.
-Titanium hardware may be used so that MRI evaluation may be used in post-operative period to evaluate for AVN!
-Hawkins sign: radiolucency of the talar body noted at 6-8 weeks after fracture. This sign is indicative of intact vascularity.
However, the absence of this sign does not indicate that osteonecrosis and talar collapse are eminent.
Additional Readings:
-Talar fractures are relatively uncommon in the medical literature. Most studies are case reports or small retrospective
reviews leading only to Level IV or V evidence.
-[Ahmad J, Raikin SM. Current concepts review: talar fractures. Foot Ankle Int. 2006 Jun; 27(6): 475-82.]
-[Golano P, et al. The anatomy of the navicular and periarticular structures. Foot Ankle Clin. 2004 Mar; 9(1): 1-23.]
-[Berndt A, Harty M. Transchondral fractures of the talus. JBJS-Am. 1959; 41: 988-1020.]
-[Canale ST, Kelly FB. Fractures of the neck of the talus. Long-term evaluation of seventy-one cases. JBJS-Am. 1978 Mar; 60(2): 143-56.]
62
AJM Sheet: Calcaneal Fractures
-The standard trauma work-up again applies with primary and secondary surveys. The following describes unique subjective
findings, objective findings, diagnostic classifications and treatment considerations.
Subjective
-Demographics: Men>Women; Age range generally 30-60; account for ~2% of all fractures; 2-10% are bilateral; 10% associated
with vertebral fracture (most commonly L1); 1% associated with pelvic fracture and urethral trauma.
-Common mechanisms of injury: Direct axial load, vertical shear force, MVC, gastroc contraction, stress fracture, ballistics,
iatrogenic surgical fracture
Objective
-Physical Exam: -Pain with palpation to heel -Mondor’s Sign: characteristic ecchymosis extending into plantar medial foot
-Short, wide heel -Hoffa’s sign: less taut Achilles tendon on involved side
-Inability to bear weight -Must rule out compartment syndrome
-Imaging: -Plain film Imaging: -Bohler’s Angle: normally 25-40 degrees (decreased with fracture)
-Critical Angle of Gissane: normally 125-140 degrees (increased with fracture)
-Both demonstrate loss of calcaneal height
-Broden’s View: 2 oblique views to view the middle and posterior facets
-Isherwood Views: 3 oblique views to highlight all facets
-Calcaneal Axial View: demonstrates lateral widening and varus orientation
-CT Scan: -Gold standard for evaluation and surgical planning
-The coronal view forms the basis of the Sanders Classification
Classifications
Sanders Classification: Uses widest view of posterior facet on semicoronal CT cut
-Type I: Non-displaced articular fx -A, B and C further describe the fx (lateralmedial)
-Type II: Two-part posterior facet fx -A/B: divide posterior facet into equal 1/3’s
-Type III: Three-part posterior facet fx -C: divides posterior facet from sus tali
-Type IV: Four-part/comminuted fx
Treatment
-Appreciate the debate in the literature between cast immobilization vs. percutaneous reduction vs. ORIF vs. primary arthrodesis.
[Barei DP, et al. Fractures of the calcaneus. Orthop Clin North Am. 2002 Jan; 33(1): 263-85.]
-Goals of therapy are to restore calcaneal height, decrease calcaneal body widening (reduce lateral wall blow-out), take it out of
varus, and articular reduction.
-Review the lateral extensile surgical approach [Benirschke SK, Sangeorzan BJ. Extensive intraarticular fractures of the foot. Surgical management
of calcaneal fractures. CORR. 1993 Jul; 292: 128-134.]
-Complications: Wound healing, arthritis, lateral ankle impingement, malunion, nonunion, etc.
-[Benirschke SK, Kramer PA. Wound healing complication in closed and open calc fractures. J Orthop Trauma. 2004; 18(1): 1-6.]
-[Cavadas PC, Landin L. Management of soft-tissue complications of the lateral approach for calcaneal fractures. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2007;
120(2): 459-466.]
63
AJM Sheet: Ankle Fracture Evaluation
-The standard trauma work-up again applies with primary and secondary surveys. The following describes unique subjective
findings, objective findings, diagnostic classifications and treatment considerations.
-Residents and attendings love to ask questions about ankle fractures for whatever reason, so this is certainly a subject where
you should know the classification systems cold, and do a lot of the additional readings. We’ll keep it brief here.
-Relevant Anatomy to Review (not just for this topic; think lateral ankle instability, peroneal tendonopathy, sprains, etc.):
-Ankle Ligaments: -Lateral: ATFL, CFL, PTFL
-Medial: Superficial Deltoid: superficial talotibial, naviculotibial, tibiocalcaneal
ligaments
Deep Deltoid: anterior talotibial and deep posterior ligaments
-Syndesmotic Ligaments: -AITFL, PITFL (and inferior transverse tibiofibular ligament), Interosseous ligament
-Classifications:
-Ottawa Ankle Rules
[Stiell IG, et al. A study to develop clinical decision rules for the use of radiology in acute ankle injuries. Ann Emerg Med. 1992; 21(4): 384-90.]
-Developed by ED docs to minimize unnecessary radiographs following ankle sprains. X-ray only required if:
-Bone tenderness along distal 6cm of posterior edge of fibula or tibia
-Bone tenderness at tip of fibula or tibia
-Bone tenderness at the base of the 5th met
-Bone tenderness on the navicular
-Inability to bear weight/walk 4 steps in the ED
-Lauge-Hansen Classification
-First submitted as a doctoral thesis [Lauge-Hansen N, Anklebrud I. 1942]. Co-authored with a guy named “Ankle”-brud!
-[Lauge-Hansen N. Fractures of the ankle: analytic, historic survey as the basis of new experimental roentgenologic and clinical investigations.
Arch Surg 1948; 56: 259.]
Stage I Stage II Stage III Stage IV
Supination Lateral collateral Near vertical medial NA NA
ligament tear/ avulsion malleolar fx (Muller D)
Adduction fibular fx (Weber A)
Pronation Transverse avulsion fx AITFL syndesmotic Short, oblique lateral NA
medial rupture or avulsion of malleolus fracture
Abduction malleolus/deltoid its insertion (Weber B)
rupture (Muller B) Transverse on lateral
radiograph
Supination AITFL syndesmotic Spiral lateral malleolus PITFL syndesmotic Transverse avulsion fx
rupture or avulsion of fracture (Weber B) rupture or avulsion of medial
External its insertion Long, posterior spike its insertion malleolus/deltoid
Rotation on lateral radiograph rupture (Muller B)
Pronation Transverse avulsion fx AITFL syndesmotic Oblique or spiral fibular PITFL syndesmotic
medial rupture or avulsion of fracture rupture or avulsion of
External malleolus/deltoid its insertion suprasyndesmotic its insertion
Rotation rupture (Muller B) (Weber C)
Pronation
Dorsiflexion
-The problem with the Lauge-Hansen classification: This was an experimental/laboratory study looking at the
result of forced talar movement on a fixed tibia-fibula. But most ankle fractures in real-life occur when a moving
tibia-fibular acts on a fixed foot.
64
AJM Sheet: Ankle Fracture Treatment
-Principles of Fixation:
-This is one area where there is a lot of controversy in the medical literature. There are certainly some things you want to
accomplish besides the generic concept of “anatomic reduction”. I can’t get too much into it in this limited space, but I will try
and give you a couple sides of the argument and some reading to do. The question you are really trying to answer is: “How
reduced is reduced enough?” Then we’ll briefly cover some specific aspects of the surgeries themselves. One thing to
appreciate is that most of these arguments are made about SER fractures (because they are the most common):
-Restore fibular length
-Most people agree that the fibular fracture is the dominant fracture. In other words, if you adequately reduce
the fibula, then the other fractures and dislocations more or less fall into line because of the soft tissues (poor
man’s definition of the Vassal Principle). It doesn’t mean that the other fractures don’t require fixation, but
it means there’s no real sense in fixating the other fractures unless you have the dominate fracture fixated (or
at least reduced).
-The other concept is that a fixed fibula is essentially acting as a buttress, keeping the talus within the ankle
mortise.
-The fibula is generally shortened in ankle fractures, so you want to get the full length back with your
reduction (generally visibly seen by reduction of the posterior spike on a lateral view).
-[Yablon IG, et al. The key role of the lateral malleolus in displaced fractures of the ankle. JBJS-Am. 1977; 59(2): 169-173.]
-Restore the ankle mortise (medial clear space and the syndesmotic gap)
-This goes back to the fibula keeping the talus in the ankle mortise. The classic article you need to know is
Ramsey and Hamilton that showed a 42% decrease in the tibiotalar contact area when the talus was displaced
1mm laterally. From this, people inferred that if the talus isn’t perfectly reduced back into the mortise, then
gross instability occurs.
-This is assessed by:
-Medial clear space (from the talar shoulder): Should be ~4mm or less after reduction
-Tib-Fib Overlap: Approximately >10mm on AP view at 1cm superior to the joint line
-Talar Tilt: <10 degrees absolute, or <5 degrees compared to other side
-[Ramsey PL, Hamilton W. Changes in tibiotalar area of contact caused by lateral talar shift. JBJS-Am. 1976; 58(3): 356-7.]
-[Park SS, et al. Stress radiographs after ankle fracture: the effect of ankle position and deltoid status on medial
clear space measurements. J Orthop Trauma. 2006; 20(1): 11-18.]
-Fix the syndesmosis?
-Another area of controversy where there is no clear answer is when and how to fixate the syndesmosis with
internal fixation. One point is clear: the purpose of placing internal fixation across the syndesmosis is to
stabilize the fibula against the tibia to prevent lateral migration of the talus and instability. If the fibula is
stable against the tibia with all of your other fixation, then you don’t really need any additional fixation.
How can you tell? Radiographic findings and the Cotton hook test for instability intra-operatively.
-Other questions where people have opinions, but no clear answers are: What type of screws? How many
screws? How many cortices? How far above the ankle? Temporary vs. permanent fixation? Weight-
bearing? etc.
-Lateral Malleolus:
-Fracture is primarily reduced and fixated with a single 2.7mm cortical screw with interfrag compression.
-Then a generic 1/3 tubular plate or a specialized contoured plate is used for buttress stabilization.
-Attempt for 6 cortices proximal to fracture with 3.5 bicortical screws
-Get as many distal screws as you can. 3.5 bicortical if above the ankle joint. 4.0 unicortical if not.
-Proximal fibular fractures still amendable to 1/3 tubular plating, but may need to double-stack the plates.
-Should appreciate the concept of lateral vs. posterior anti-glide plating.
-Medial Malleolus:
-Several options including 4.0 cancellous, K-wires, plating, cerclage, etc.
-Additional Reading:
-[Mandi DM, et al. Ankle fractures. Clin Podiatr Med Surg. 2006 Apr; 23(2): 375-422.]
-[Mandracchia DM, et al. Malleolar fractures of the ankle. A comprehensive review. Clin Podiatr Med Surg. 1999 Oct; 16(4): 679-723.]
-[Kay RM, Matthys GA. Pediatric ankle fractures: evaluation and treatment. J Am Acad Orthop Surg. 2001; 9(4): 269-78.]
-[Jones KB, et al. Ankle fractures in patients with diabetes mellitus. JBJS-Br. 2005; 87(4): 489-95.]
-[Espinosa N, et al. Acute and chronic syndesmosis injuries: pathomechanics, diagnosis and management. Foot Ankle Clin. 2006 Sep; 11(3): 639-57.]
65
AJM Sheet: General Tendon Trauma
-Mechanism of Injury
-Tendon is actually the strongest part of the muscle-tendon-insertion system. It is much more likely for the complex
to fail at the myotendinous junction or at the tendinous insertion, but acute tendon injuries do occur. They are usually the
result of direct trauma, or overload on an intrinsically weakened tendon.
-Tension overload on a passive muscle
-Eccentric overload on an actively contracting muscle
-Laceration
-Blunt Trauma
-Tendon Healing
-As with most tissue, there is a generalized inflammation, reparative and remodeling phase.
-Week 1: Severed ends fill in with granulation tissue
-Weeks 2-3: Increased paratenon vascularity; collagen fibril alignment
-Week 4: Return to full activity without immobilization
-Tenograph: -Radiopaque dye injected into tendon sheath and viewed on plain film radiograph
-Technically difficult with many false positives and negatives
-CT: -Tendon normally appears as a homogenous, well-circumscribed oval surrounded by fat on CT. It
normally has a higher attenuation than muscle.
-Will be able to appreciate discontinuity on CT with injury.
-MRI: -T1: Tendons normally have a uniform low-intensity (very black). Will be uniform with variable
high-intensity signal with injury.
-T2: Tendons are normally relatively low-intensity. Will light up with high-intensity signal with
injury.
-Remember the magic angle phenomenon. Any MRI signal shot at 55 degrees to the course of
the tendon will show a false-positive damage signal. Very common in the peroneals.
-[Mengiardi B, et al. Magic angle effect in MR imaging of ankle tendons: influence of foot positioning on prevalence and
site in asymptomatic patients and cadaver tendons. Eur Radiol. 2006 Oct; 16(10): 2197-2206.]
-Principles of Repair
-It is possible, but rare to get acute tendon injury to any of the long tendons of the leg. An Achilles tendon work-up
will be featured in another AJM sheet, but realize there are some basic principles that apply to any tendon.
-One is generally able to primarily repair the tendon. Non-absorbable suture is preferred.
-Special attention should be paid to vascular supply. Remember that the majority of a tendon’s vascularity comes
from the mesotenon, and therefore should be preserved as much as possible.
-If primary repair is not possible, consider using lengthening tendon slides, tendon grafts, tendon transfers and
biomaterials such as Graft-Jacket (allograft dermal tissue matrix) or Pegasus (equine pericardium) to restore the
integrity of the tendon.
-The goal of treatment should be to allow early PROM without gapping of the tendon.
66
AJM Sheet: Achilles Tendon Rupture Work-Up
Subjective:
CC: Typical complaint is pain, weakness and swelling in the back of the leg following an acute injury. The typical patient is
the “weekend warrior” type. This is a 30-50 y/o male participating in a strenuous athletic activity after a generally inactive
lifestyle.
HPI: Nature: Pain, weakness and swelling. Pain is surprisingly non-intense allowing the patient to ambulate. The patient
may relate an audible “pop” or “snap”. They may also relate feeling like they were “kicked or shot” in the back of the leg.
Location: Distal posterior leg. The left leg is more affected. Some people theorize that this has to do with the
majority of people having right-handedness and a greater strength and proprioception of the RLE.
Duration, Onset, Course: Acute onset with gradually progressive increase in swelling and edema.
Mechanism of Action: -Three classic MOA are described:
-Unexpected dorsiflexion with triceps contraction
-Pushing off during WB with the leg extended (tennis lunge)
-Violent dorsiflexion on a plantarflexed ankle
-Also consider lacerations and blunt trauma
Previous History: obviously more likely to re-rupture
PMH: -Inflammatory conditions: RA, SLE, Gout
-Endocrine dysfunction: DM, Renal failure with hyperparathyroidism, hyperthyroidism, Xanthoma
(hyperbetalipoproteinemia)
-Infection: Syphilis
Meds: -Corticosteroid injection
-Fluoroquinolone use
SH: -Smoking
-Sedentary lifestyle with weekend activity
Objective:
Derm: -Posterior, Medial and Lateral Ecchymosis
-Open lesion associated with laceration
Vasc: -Posterior, Medial and Lateral edema
Neuro: -Sural Neuritis
Ortho: -Palpable gap (“hatchet strike defect”)
-Positive Thompson test
-Negative Jack’s test
-Pain in the area
-Increased PROM ankle dorsiflexion
-Decreased AROM ankle plantarflexion
-Retraction of proximal gastroc belly
-Apropulsive gait
Other specific tests: -Mattles test: Foot should be in plantarflexed position with patient prone and knee at 90°
-Simmonds’ test: Foot should be in plantarflexed position with patient prone
-Various needle tests (O’Brian, Cetti)
-Toygar’s skin angle: Normally 110-125 degrees. Increases to 130-150 degrees with rupture.
Imaging:
-Plain film: -r/o Rowe Type IIB avulsion fracture
-Radiodense gap
-Obliteration of Kager’s triangle
-Soft tissue edema
-US: -Alternating hyperechoic and hypoechoic bands
-Hyperechoic hematoma
-MRI: -TI: -Ill-defined low-intensity with mixed high-intensity signal
-T2: -High-intensity signal from hematoma
67
AJM Sheet: Achilles Tendon Rupture Treatment
-Anatomy Review
-Muscles of the Triceps Surae (origins, insertions, NV supply, action)
-Plantaris (origins, insertions, NV supply, action)
-Segmental Blood Supply of Tendon
-“Twisting” of tendon
-The podiatric surgeon is faced with three options: do nothing, cast immobilization and surgical repair. There’s a lot of information out about this in the
medical literature now, particularly with open repair vs. immobilization and when to start weight-bearing/PT.
-Do nothing
-Gap will eventually fill in with fibrotic scar tissue
-Usually requires later surgical intervention
-Cast Immobilization
-AK cast versus SLC
-Schuberth is proponent of AK casting
-Knee should be in a 20 degree flexed position
-General recommendations:
-Gravity equinus cast x 4 weeks
-Reduction of 5 degrees every 2 weeks to a neutral ankle position (~4-6 weeks)
-Heel lift and PT until normal ankle PROM
-Return to full activity at approximately 6 months
-Surgical Repair
-Surgical approach
-Midline to medial incision to avoid superficial neurovascular structures
-Pt in a prone or supine frog-legged position
-Use full-thickness flaps with emphasis on atraumatic technique
-Primary Open Repair
-Keith needles with non-absorbable suture (or fiberwire) with absorbable sutures to reinforce
-There are three common stitches used:
-Bunnell: Figure of 8 or weave stitch
-Krakow: Interlocking stitch
-Kessler: Box stitch
-Augmented Open Primary Repair
-Lynn: Plantaris is fanned out to reinforce
-Silverskoild: 1 strip of gastroc aponeurosis brought down and twisted 180 degrees
-Lindholm: Utilizes multiple strips of gastroc aponeurosis
-Bug and Boyd: Strips of fascia lata are used to reinforce
-V Y lengthening of the proximal segment with primary repair
-Reinforcement with FHL
-Graft Jacket, Pegasus, etc.
-Percutaneous Primary Repair
-Ma and Griffith described a percutaneous Bunnell-type approach
-May be associated with high re-rupture rates
-Post-Op Treatment
-SLC in gravity equinus with gradual reduction over 6-10 weeks
68
AJM Sheets: Peri-Operative Medicine and Surgery
Contents:
Peri-Operative Medicine
-Admission Orders (page 70)
-Electrolyte Basics (page 71)
-Glucose Control (page 72)
-Fluids (page 73)
-Post-Op Fever (page 74)
-DVT (page 75)
-Pain Management (page 76)
This particular section is intended to be more general, as opposed to a specific surgical study
guide. It is ridiculous to think that you could learn foot and ankle surgery in 100 pages, especially with
only 15 pages dedicated to specific deformities. In other words, you should absolutely not be doing all of
your specific surgical preparation for externships and interviews from the PRISM. Many of the Sheets
from the Specific Surgery Topics section are simply summarizations of the 3rd edition of McGlamry’s
chapters for example. This may be an area where you feel the PRISM could be updated in the future.
Again, I said that while I was studying for the Diabetic Foot Infection work-up, I tried to learn as
much as possible on the topic and really tried to “wow” the attendings at the interview. However, my
strategy was different when dealing with trauma and the specific surgical work-ups. Here I tried to
demonstrate “competence,” as opposed to “mastery” of the material. With specific surgeries, you’re really
not supposed to have strong, pre-formed opinions as a student or as an intern. That’s what your residency
is for, developing surgical opinions. If you already know what to do in every surgical situation, then what’s
the point of doing a residency? So while on externships and at the interview, you should really try to walk
a fine line between:
1. Displaying competence in knowledge of the baseline material
2. Displaying that you still have a lot to learn, and that you are eager to learn it.
Page 85’s “How to Work-Up a Surgical Patient” gets into this concept a little deeper.
69
AJM Sheet: Admission Orders/ADC VANDILMAX
(Note: If I wanted to be mean during an interview, I would have you write out a set of admission or post-op orders as I was asking you other questions.)
Admission: Pt is admitted to the general medical floor on the Podiatric Surgery Service under Dr. Attending.
Most patients on the podiatric surgery service are admitted to the general medical floor or a surgical floor. Any pts
admitted to a critical care unit or telemetry unit will probably be on a medicine service with a podiatric surgical consult.
Nursing Instructions: Consider: -Accuchecks (how often and when?) -Ice and elevation
-Bedside Commode -Dispense Post-op shoe/Crutches
-Wound Care -Dressing Instructions
-Drain management -Off-loading instructions
-Spirometry
Ins/Outs/IVs: Consider: -Measurement and recording of Ins and Outs (especially dialysis pts)
-Foley
-IV Fluids
Medications: Consider: -Write out all at-home medications in full -Pain medication
-Antibiotics -Insomnia
-Anti-emetics -DVT ppx
-Constipation -Diarrhea
-SSI -Fever
-Throat lozenges -Anti-pruritic
Be as specific as possible. SSI needs to be written out in full. Many medications require hold parameters. For example,
fever medications should not be given unless the temperature reaches 101.5° F. Anti-HTN agents should be held if the blood
pressure or heart rate drops too low.
-Sodium:
-Hyponatremia
-Manifestations: Primarily neurologic, lethargy, headache, confusion, obtundation
-Treatment: -Restrict water intake and promote water loss -Correct underlying disorder
-Replace Na+ deficits
-Hypernatremia
-Manifestations: Change in mental status, weakness, neuromuscular irritability, focal neurologic deficits, coma,
seizures
-Treatment: -Replace water loss and promote sodium excretion
-Water deficit = ([Na+]-140)/140 x Total Body Water in liters
-Rapid correction of either of these disorders is dangerous due to rapid shifts of water in and out of brain cells. It should
therefore be corrected slowly over 48-72 hours. Aim correction at 0.5 mEq/L/hr with no more than a 12 mEq/L correction over the first 24
hours.
-Potassium:
-An abnormal potassium level is a major reason a surgery will be cancelled and/or delayed. You should have a specific
understanding how to raise and lower potassium levels in the peri-operative setting.
-Hypokalemia
-Manifestations: Fatigue, myalgia, muscular weakness, cramps, arrhythmia’s, hypoventilation, paralysis, tetany
-Treatment: -Minimize outgoing losses -Treat underlying cause
-Correct K+ deficit via oral or IV means (K+ riders added to fluid, oral KCL, etc.)
-Hyperkalemia
-Manifestations: Cardiac toxicity (peaked T waves, prolonged PR, torsades de pointes), muscle weakness, paralysis,
hypoventilation
-Treatment: -Increase cellular uptake of K+
-Insulin (10-20 units) with 50 g IV glucose
-IV NaHCO3 (3 ampules in 1L of 5% dextrose)
-Albuterol (5-10mg nebulized over 30-60 minutes)
-Increase K+ excretion
-Loop diuretic, Thiazide diuretic
-Kayexalate (cation exchange resin) (25-50mg mixed with 100ml 20% sorbitol to prevent constipation)
-Dialysis
-Calcium Gluconate (10ml of 10% solution over 2-3 minutes emergently to reduce membrane excitability)
-The importance of in-patient management of blood glucose cannot be overstated. This is an area however
where medicine tends to be very passive with regard to intervention. Rigid control of blood glucose in the in-patient
setting has been definitively shown to:
-Reduce mortality -Reduce in-patient complications
-Reduce infection rates -Decrease length of stay
-Reduce hospital costs
-Specifically with regards to diabetic foot disease, a single blood glucose level higher than 150-175mg/dl
significantly limits the function of the immune system for a period of days, particularly cytokine activation and
recruitment.
-My favorite article of the 2006-7 academic year was Inzucchi SE. Management of Hyperglycemia in the Hospital Setting. NEJM.
Sep 2006; 355: 1903. It is a must-read on this topic. I also strongly recommend obtaining a FREE copy of the Yale Diabetes
Center Diabetes Facts and Guidelines 2006. They will mail it to you (FOR FREE!) by calling 203 737-1932 or emailing
silvio.inzucchi@yale.edu. An online version is also available at http://info.med.yale.edu/intmed/endocrin/yale_diab_ctr.html.
You are a complete sucker if you don’t take advantage of this resource. And if you are really interested in this topic, research
the work of the Portland Diabetic Project.
Oral Agents
-Sulfonylureas: Bind to β-cell receptors stimulating insulin release
-Glyburide (Micronase) -Glipizide (Glucotrol) -Glimepiride (Amaryl)
-Biguanides: Decrease production of glucose in the liver
-Metformin (Glucophage)
-Thiazolidinediones: Increase peripheral cellular response to insulin
-Rosiglitazone (Avandia) -Pioglitazone (Actos)
-α-glucosidase inhibitors: Reduce intestinal carbohydrate absorption
-Acarbose (Precose) -Miglitol (Glyset)
Insulins
Type Onset Peak Duration
Rapid Acting
Lispro (Humalog) 10-15 minutes 1-2 hours 3-5 hours
Aspart (Novolog) 10-15 minutes 1-2 hours 3-5 hours
Short Acting
Regular 0.5-1hr 2-4 hours 4-8 hours
Intermediate Acting
NPH 1-3 hours 4-10 hours 10-18 hours
Lente 2-4 hours 4-12 hours 12-20 hours
Long Acting
Glargine (Lantus) 2-3 hours None 24+ hours
Detemir (Levemir) 1 hour None 24 hours
Combinations
70/30 0.5-1 hour 2-10 hours 10-18 hours
(70% NPH/30% Regular)
In-patient Recommendations
-There is increasing data that sliding scales are completely inefficient at in-patient glucose management.
Sliding scales are passive, reactionary scales that compensate after a hyperglycemic incident occurs. Inzucchi
recommends the following, instead of a sliding scale:
-Basal Rate: Lantus or other long acting
-Start 0.2-0.3 Units/kg/day; then increase 10-20% q1-2 days prn
-Prandial Coverage: Novolog or other rapid acting
-Start 0.05-0.1 Units/kg/day; then adjust 1-2 Units/dose q1-2 days prn
72
AJM Sheet: Fluids
-Fluid management is a difficult topic to cover because it can be used for a variety of different problems/purposes. It can be
used to maintain fluid balance in a patient who is NPO, correct electrolyte disturbances, and/or provide glucose to name just a
few examples. This sheet will cover the basics of short-term maintenance therapy and show differences in electrolyte
concentrations between the most common fluids.
-Pediatric Considerations
-Pediatric patients should be aggressively rehydrated after a surgical procedure for two reasons:
-They will lose a higher percentage of their total fluid volume during a procedure.
-They have a tendency to “third space” and shift fluid balances in the perioperative period.
-To determine the total intravascular volume of a pediatric patient:
-The first 10kg of body weight account for about 80ml/kg.
-So a 7kg kid would be (7x80) = 560ml
-The next kg’s account for about 70ml/kg
-So a 25kg kid would be (10x80 + 15x70) = 1850ml
-General Recommendations:
-At the very least you should replace fluid to account for water loss. This is at least 1L/day, but you can
certainly increase this and lose the excess through the urine.
-It is also recommended to provide some electrolyte supplementation:
-Na+: 50-150 mEq/day
-K+: 20-60 mEq/day
-Glucose: 100-150g/day to minimize protein catabolism and ketoacidosis
D5W 278 50 0 0
D10W 556 100 0 0
D50W 2778 500 0 0
0.45% NaCl 154 (5% available) 77 77
0.9% NaCl 308 (5% available) 154 154
3% NaCl 1026 0 513 513
Lactated Ringer’s 274 (5% available) 130 109
-LR also contains 4 mEq/L K+, 1.5 mEq/L Ca2+, and 28 mEq/L lactate
-Common administrations:
-Normal adult: NS or 1/2 NS or LR at 75-120ml/hr +/- 20mEq KCl
-Diabetic patients: D5-1/2NS at 50-100ml/hr +/- 20mEq KCl while NPO
There usually isn’t a need to deliver extra glucose (D5) to diabetic patients while they are PO.
-The key to fluid management is an understanding and knowledge of exactly why you are giving fluids in the first place, what
you hope to accomplish, what substances you are giving in the fluid and how much you are giving.
-Obvious care needs to be taken with diabetic patients, those with renal pathology, and those with CHF.
Additional Reading:
-[Grocott MP, et al. Perioperative Fluid Management and Clinical Outcomes in Adults. Anesth Anal. 2005 Apr; 100(4):1093-106.]
-[Paut O. Recent developments in the perioperative fluid management for the paediatric patient. Curr Opin Anaesthesiol. 2006 Jun;19(3):268-77.]
73
AJM Sheet: Post-Op Fever
-General Information
-When dealing with a fever work-up, always note what the baseline temperature of the patient is and the method of
measurement.
-Fever in most institutions is defined as greater than 101.5° F.
-Temperatures between 98.6-101.5° are low-grade fevers.
-General Knowledge
-Usually only two infectious agents can cause a fever within a few hours of surgery:
-Group A Strep (GAS)
-Clostridium perfringens
-Dialysis patients typically run approximately 1 degree F cooler than the normal population, so a fever for HD
patients wound be defined as 100.5° F. This is hypothesized to be due to a resetting of the hypothalamic set point.
-The majority of causes of fever are non-infectious. AJM always carries with him a copy of the DDX of fever
copied from Harrison’s text (it’s 2 pages long!). Common non-infectious causes of post-op fever include:
-Surgical site inflammation
-Seroma
-Hematoma
-Pain
-The purpose of any fever work-up is to find the source!
-If you are thinking infection, then infection from where: Surgical site? Pulmonary? Urine? Blood? Does
the patient have any peripheral vascular access lines?
74
AJM Sheet: Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
-Risk Factors
-Virchow’s Triad: -History of DVT -Collagen Vascular Dz
-Hypercoagulable state -Family History of DVT -Trauma
-Immobilization -Pregnancy -Infection
-Vessel Wall Injury -Oral Contraceptives -Post-partum
-Age > 75 -Hormone Replacement Therapy
-Malignancy -Obesity -HIV/AIDS
-There is also the acronym I AM CLOTTED: Immobilization, Afib/CHF, Malignancy/MI, Coagulopathy, Longevity (age),
Obesity, Trauma, Tobacco, Estrogen/BCP/HRT, DVT/PE history.
-Diagnosis
-Compression Ultrasound: can actually visualize the clot
-D-Dimer > 500ng/ml: Not sufficient as a stand alone test
-Consider full coagulation work-up for hypercoagulable states
-Contrast venography
-Impedance plethysmography
-Treatment
-Goals of Treatment: 1. Prevent pulmonary embolism
2. Prevent clot extension
3. Prevent recurrence
-Immediate Anti-Coagulation
-IV Unfractionated Heparin
-Law of 8018
-Initial Dose 80mg/kg IV bolus and then 18mg/kg/hour
-PTT should be checked q6 until it stabilizes at 1.5-2.5X normal (46-70s)
-Goal is to get PTT in this range
-LMWH may also be used
-Enoxaparin (Lovenox): 1mg/kg subcutaneous q12
75
AJM Sheet: Pain Management
-Pain Management is a subject that you will be dealing with a lot during residency, but something that you
won’t receive much formal education on. Honestly, you probably won’t get many interview questions about it
either, but it’s something that I think is important. This is a shameful plug, but Clinics in Podiatric Med and Surg
had a whole edition to the subject (July 2008) that is worth reading. Specifically for the residency interview, read
Articles 1, 5 and 8. I also wrote the “Perioperative Pain Management” chapter in the 4th edition of McGlam’s.
-The “attack points” are a concept that AJM made up to promote an active approach to multimodal pain
management.
-Acute Operative Pain Physiology “Attack Points” (In Clinics: The Physiology of the Acute Pain Pathway)
Attack Point Physiology Intervention
Stimulus Stimulus: Noxious stimuli resulting in Resolution/Limitation of Stimulus
tissue damage to superficial and deep -Prevention of secondary aggravation
somatic structures.
Anti-Inflammatory Pharmacologics
Transduction: Nociceptor activation by -NSAIDs
chemical, mechanical or thermal means. Carboxylic Acid Derivatives
Proprionic Acid Derivatives
Post-Injury Inflammatory Response: Acetic Acid Derivatives
Normal response to cellular damage with Fenamates
the chance to develop into the Enolic Acid Derivatives
pathophysiologic mechanism of peripheral Naphthylkanones
sensitization. COXII Selectives
-Non-NSAIDs
-Anti-histamines
-Topical Agents
-Local Anesthetics
Anti-Inflammatory physiotherapeutics
Beta-adrenergics
Anti-Inflammatories
Patient Education
-Principles of AO
1. Accurate and precise anatomic reduction of fracture fragments (especially in joints).
2. Atraumatic surgical technique with emphasis on preservation of blood supply.
3. Rigid/Stable fixation
4. Early mobilization
-The “Guide to Internal Fixation” by the AO group is a great book that reads fairly quickly. You should also read the text
“Internal Fixation of Small Fractures” and “AO Principles of Fracture Management” from the AO group. General notes
from these books are included throughout the following sheets dealing with specific traumatic fractures.
-Orientation of the screw 90° to the fracture line obtains optimal compression.
->20° displacement from perpendicular is significant
-Weakest in translation from axial loading
-Orientation of the screw 90° to the long axis optimally prevents displacement with axial loading.
-Weak in compression
-Ideal screw placement for a long, oblique fracture:
-One central anchor screw 90° to the long axis
-One proximal and one distal compression screw 90° to the fracture line
-Principles of Insertion
-AO Recommendations: Overdrill, Underdrill, Countersink, Measure, Tap, Screw
-Some underdrill before overdrill
-Some don’t overdrill until after tapping
-Two finger tightness = 440-770lbs.
-To prevent thermal necrosis: -Sharp tip
-Fast advancement (2-3mm/sec)
-Slow drill speed (300-400rpm)
-Firm force (20-25lbs)
-Screw Pull-out
-Directly proportional to screw diameter, screw length and bone strength (cortical nature).
-Indirectly related to pilot hole diameter.
-To increase screw pull-out, maximize bone-screw contact.
77
AJM Sheet: Screws and Plates
Screws
-Screw Anatomy/Definitions
-Head: more efficient hexagonal vs. cruciate
-Land: underside of the head which contacts the near cortex. Want as much land-bone contact as possible to reduce
stress at any one location. This is the same principle as washers and countersinking.
-Shank: unthreaded portion of the screw
-Run-out: junction between the shank and the threads. Represents the weakest portion of the screw.
-Thread diameter: diameter of threads + core (major diameter)
-Core diameter: diameter without the threads (minor diameter)
-Pitch: distance between threads
-Tip: can be round, trocar or fluted
-Axis: central line of the screw
-Rake Angle: thread to axis angle
-Thread Angle: angle between the threads
-Self-Tapping Screws
-Fluted tip that clears debris as it is advanced
-Require larger pilot holes, have decreased thread-bone contact and have the ability to cut its own path different
from the underdrill
-Cannulated Screws
-Classically 3.0, 4.0, and 7.3mm, but really have just about any size available now
-Advantages: self-drilling, self-tapping, good for hard to visualize fractures, avoids skiving of cortical bone on
insertion and has definite co-axial nature with K-wire.
-Disadvantages: hollow core, decreased thread-core ratio, decreased pull-out strength
-Herbert Screws
-Proximal and distal threads separated by a smooth shaft. Headless.
-Leading threads have increased pitch, so it draws the trailing threads.
-Does generate interfragmental compression, but not a lot.
-Interference Screws
-FT, headless screw
-prevents axial displacement. Does not generate compression.
-Malleolar Screws
-Essentially a self-cutting, PT cortical screw.
Plates
-General:
-Quarter Tubular Plate: For use with screws from the mini fragment set
-One-Third Tubular Plate: For use with screws from the small fragment set
-Many other shapes and sizes of plates are available that specifically fit just about any bone/situation.
-AO Basic Stabilization Rule: Ideally you want 3 or 4 cortical threads in each main fragment distally, and 5 or 6 proximally.
78
AJM Sheet: Suture Sheet
-Suture materials are best classified as to whether they are absorbable vs. non-absorbable, synthetic vs. natural, and
monofilament vs. multifilament.
1. Absorbable (usually used for deep closure)
A. Natural
-Pig collagen, sheep intestine, cow intestine or cat gut
-May be chromic (treated with chromic salts to increase strength and decrease hydrolysis)
-Digested by lysosomal enzymes in 20 days
B. Synthetic
1. Vicryl (Polyglactin 910)
-Braided. May be coated (polyglactin 370 or calcium stearate)
-65% tensile strength at 14 days
-Hydrolyzed (to CO2 and H20) in 80-120 days
-Vicryl Rapid: Hydrolyzed in 42 days; loses strength in 7-10 days
-Vicryl Plus: Coated with broad spectrum antibiotic Triclosan (also found in toothpaste)
2. Dexon (Polyglycolic acid)
-Braided. May be coated (polycaprolate 188)
-Hydrolyzed in 100-200 days
3. PDS (Polydiaxonone)
-Monofilament
-70% tensile strength at 14 days
-Hydrolyzed in 90 days
4. Maxon (Polyglyconate)
-Monofilament
-Hydrolyzed in 180 days; Longest lasting absorbable (“Max”-imum)
5. Monocril (Poliglecaprone)
-Monofilament
-20-30% tensile strength at 14 days
-Hydrolyzed in 90-120 days
Other Notes:
-Sutures are also classified according to size. They can range from 0-0 (very thick) to 9-0 (extremely thin).
-Surgeon’s choice is extremely variable and you usually just work with what you are used to, but here are some safe bets:
-Capsule closure: 2-0 or 3-0 Vicryl
-Subcutaneous tissue closure: 3-0 or 4-0 Vicryl
-Skin: 4-0 Nylon or Prolene
-Skin sutures are removed at 10-14 days because at this point the tensile strength of the wound equals the tensile strength of the
suture.
-This was the very first AJM sheet!
79
AJM Sheet: Podiatric Surgery Instrumentation
This sheet is simply a summary of the first chapter of McGlamry’s text by Dr. Malay.
-General Information
-Surgical Instruments are composed of stainless steel which itself is composed of several different metals:
-Carbon: gives instrument “hardness”
-Chromium: chromium oxide layer prevents corrosion of instrument
-Tungsten Carbide: extreme “hardness” for grasping surfaces (teeth of needle drivers)
-Nickel
-Molybdenum
-There are two different series of stainless steel depending on how it is manufactured:
-300 series Austenitic: Implants and internal fixation. Resists corrosion with resilience.
-400 series Martenitic: Cutting instruments. Hardness maintains sharp edges and jaw alignments.
-Categories of Instruments
***Know how to appropriately handle each instrument if handed it during an interview.
***Be able to identify each instrument if handed it or shown a picture during an interview.
1. Surgical Blades
-Most common: 10, 15, 11, 62 on a minihandle
-Purpose: Sharp (blade) and blunt (handle) dissection
-Cutting edge width: 0.015”
2. Scissors
-Most common: Tissue: Metzenbaum, Mayo, Iris, Crown&Collar (Sistrunk)
Non Tissue: Suture, Utility, Bandage
-Purpose: Dissection
3. Hemostats
-Most common: Mosquito (Halsted), Kelly, Crile
-Purpose: Grasping and holding
4. Pick-ups
-Most common: 1-2 (Rat tooth), Adson-Brown, Atraumatic (Potts-Smith)
-Purpose: Grasping and Holding
5. Retractors
-Most Common: Hand Held: Skin Hooks, Senn, Ragnell, Malleable, Army-Navy, Volkmann Rake,
Meyerding
Self-retaining: Weitlaner, Holzheimer, Heiss
-Purpose: Retraction and exposure
6. Elevators
-Most Common: Freer, Sayre, Key, Crego, McGlamry, Langenbeck
-Purpose: Dissection
7. Rasps
-Most Common: Joseph, Maltz, Bell, Parkes
-Purpose: Cutting
8. Miscellaneous
-Osteotomes
-Chisels
-Gauges
-Mallets
-Bone-Cutting Forceps
-Rongeurs
-Trephine
-Curettes
-Bone Handling Clamps
-Reduction Forceps (Lewin, Lane, Lowman, Verbrugge)
-Needle Holders (Mayo-Heger, Sarot, Ryder, Halsey, Webster)
-Suction-Tip (Frazier)
80
AJM Sheet: Power Instrumentation General Information
This sheet is simply a review of McGlamry’s Chapter 2 by Dr. Alfred Phillips.
-General Information
-Hardest material in the human body? Teeth Enamel
-Power instrumentation developed by which medical field? Dentistry
-Definitions
-Torque: Measurement of power and force. Units: Newtons/cm^2
-Cortical bone requires more torque to cut through than cancellous bone.
-Speed: Distance per time
-Pod procedures usually require 20,000 rpm.
-Decrease risk of thermal necrosis by decreasing torque and increasing speed.
-Collet: Distal end of a saw where the saw blade attaches
-Stroke: One arc of excursion for a saw blade
-Oscillation: One back and forth motion of a saw blade. (Two strokes equal one oscillation).
-Power Saws
-Types
-Sagittal Saw: Cuts in the same plane as the instrument
-Better for longer and deeper cuts
-4° arc of excursion
-Blade may be positioned anywhere within a 160-180° arc.
-Oscillating Saw: Cuts in plane perpendicular to instrument
-7° arc of excursion
-Blade may be positioned anywhere within a 360° circle.
-Blades
-Vary by cutting depth, width, thickness, shape and number of teeth
-Shapes: straight (most commonly used), inward flair, outward flair
-The angulation of the teeth and NOT the thickness of the blade determine the thickness of a cut.
-Blades may contain holes which collect debris, thereby decreasing heat and friction.
-Wire Drivers
-K-Wires (Kirshner wire)
-Sizes: 0.028”, 0.035”, 0.045”, 0.062”
-Threaded vs. Non-threaded. Note that the direction of the driver only matters with threaded wires.
-K-Wires provide splintage (stability, but no compression)
-Steinman Pins
-Sizes: 5/64”-3/16”
-Rotary Cutting
-Power Drill Bit Sizes: 1.1, 1.5, 2.0mm
-Burrs
-Shapes: Round, Barrel, Straight, Straight-tapered
-Definitions: -shank vs. shaft vs. head
-flute vs. blade
-edge angle vs. clearance angle vs. rake angle
-Surgical Skills Section
-Surgical skills are something best learned by practice, practice, practice. A few hints are listed below:
-The surgeon’s hands provide 3 functions when operating power instrumentation:
-Control of power of the instrument
-Control of direction of the instrument
-Stability between the instrument and the surgical site
-Review concepts of: -Axis guide
-Reciprocal planing
-With a saw or K-wire, always divot perpendicular to the cortex, and then redirect.
-The spin of a burr should be parallel to the grain of the cortex or parallel the ridge of bone to be removed.
-Poor man’s ways to practice handling and control of surgical instruments:
-K-wire through a Nerf ball
-Sagittal saw through a wine cork or wood blocks
81
AJM Sheet: Biomaterials
Summary of McGlamry’s Chapter 3 by Dr. Cicchinelli.
-Properties of the ideal implant material: clinically inert, no inflammatory or foreign body response, noncarcinogenic,
nonallergenic, structurally stable, capable of sterilization, capable of fabrication in desired forms, serve as a scaffold for new
bone growth and gradual biodegradation.
-Biomaterials
-PLLA (Polylactic-L-Acid: L is enantiomer)
-Degrades to lactic acid via hydrolysis
-Retains strength 36 weeks and degrades in 2-3 years
-Available in FT 2.0, 2.7, 3.5 and 4.5mm screws
-PGA (Polyglycolic Acid)
-Degrades to glycolic acid and glycine
-Elliptical. Provides compression secondary to shape.
-Brittle and rigid
-Highest likelihood of FB rxn or complication (<4%)
-PDS (Poly-para-dioxanone)
-Tapered form swaged on metallic wire. Provides compression secondary to shape.
-Flexible and malleable
-Increased degradation times are good because it decreases the load the body has to clear.
-These screws don’t “bite” like metal screws, but swell 2-4% in the first 48 hours.
-Advantages: decreased stress shielding, no second operation for removal.
-Disadvantages: more expensive than metallic screws, but are cheaper in the long run if you remove >31% of
metallic screws in your practice.
-Metallic Implants
-Surgical Stainless Steel
-316LVM (low carbon vacuum remelting)
-Iron, 17-25% chrome, 10-14% nickel, 2-4% molybdenium, 1% carbon
-Nickel most commonly causes reaction: allergic eczematous dermatitis.
-Titanium
-Very inert, integrates into surrounding bone, resists corrosion, decreased capsule formation
-Addition of 6% aluminum and 4% vanadium increases the strength similar to steel
-Nitrogen implantation forms a stable oxide layer
-Black metallic wear debris is often seen. No toxicity or malignancy associated with this.
-Cobalt Chrome and Alloys
-30% cobalt, 7% chromium, <0.034% moly/carbon
-Used in joint replacement prostheses
-Corrosion: breakdown of metallic alloys because of electrochemical interactions within the environment
82
AJM Sheet: General External Fixation
-Selected History
-377BC: Hippocrates with wood from a cornel tree
-1904: Codvilla (Italy) used unilateral fixator for limb lengthening
-1951-1991: Ilizarov (Siberia, Russia). Father of modern ex-fix and developer of external ring fixator for WWII vets from old bus parts.
-General Principles
-Tension-Stress Effect (Ilizarov)
-Distraction performed at proper rate and in the proper area leads to tissue growth similar to hormone-mediated growth at adolescent
growth plates.
-Too fast: Stretching and traction injuries
-Too slow: Bone callus consolidation preventing future distraction
-An important principle is that all tissues (bone, skin, muscle, NV structures, etc.) become mitogenically active and grow. They proliferate as
opposed to “stretching”. Much of this has to do with the distraction serving as a mechanical stimulus for growth factor release (such as osteoblastic growth
factor) and dramatic increases in vascularity.
-Tension-Stress Effect Influences:
-Stability: increased stability leads to increased osteoblastic activity
-Rate: Ideal is 1mm/day in 4 increments
-Bone Cut: Best to keep medullary canal and as much periosteum intact as possible. Best technique is a percutaneous subperiosteal
corticotomy with a Gigli saw or osteotome/mallet.
-Location of Bone Cut: Metaphysis found to be superior to other areas
-Brief Indications
-Limb Lengthening/Distraction
-Percutaneous metaphyseal subperiosteal corticotomy with Gigli saw or osteotome/mallet
-Apply fixation before corticotomy
-Distraction begins 7-14 days after corticotomy at 1mm/day
-Angular Deformities
-CORA principle (center of rotational angulation)
-Double Taylor spatial frame
-Dynamization: release of tension from wires and loosening of half-pins to allow bone a period of introductory WB
-Fracture
-Ligamentotaxis: pulling of fracture fragments into alignment with distraction
-Arthrodesis
83
AJM Sheet: Bone, Bone Healing and Wound Healing
-Bone Properties/Variables
-Bone is a two component system consisting of minerals (increases the yield and ultimate strength of bone) and collagen (mostly
Type II).
-Variables:
-Porosity. Increased porosity leads to increased compressive strength of bone. Cortical bone has <15% porosity and
cancellous bone has ~70% porosity.
-Strength. Strength is defined as the amount of force a material can handle before failure. Bone can handle a 2%
increase in length before failure. Bone is has the greatest strength in compression, followed by tension and is weakest in shear. Strength is
affected by collagen fiber orientation, trabecular orientation, age, presence of defects and osteoporosis.
-Stiffness. Cortical bone has 5-10 times the stiffness of cancellous bone.
-The literature has demonstrated that cyclic loading and dynamization have resulted in decreased healing times, decreased
stiffness, increased torque and increased energy absorption in rabbit and dog bones. A practical means to accomplish this in human
subjects hasn’t been perfected yet.
Wound Healing
Additional Readings:
-[Broughton G, Janis JE, Attinger CE. Wound healing: an overview. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2006 Jun; 117(7 Suppl): 1S-32S.]
-[Broughton G, Janis JE, Attinger CE. The basic science of wound healing. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2006 Jun; 117(7 Suppl): 12S-34S.]
-[Hunt TK, Hopf H, Hussain Z. Physiology of wound healing. Adv Skin Wound Care. 2000 May-Jun; 13(2 Suppl): 6-11.]
-[Lawrence WT. Physiology of the acute wound. Clin Plast Surg. 1998 Jul: 25(3): 321-40.]
-[Falanga V. Wound healing and its impairment in the diabetic foot. Lancet 2005; 366: 1736-43.]
84
AJM Sheet: How to “Work-Up” a Surgical Patient
With regard to specific surgery and the interviews, it’s always important to “know your program”. In other words, programs tend
to have favorite procedures that they routinely do. For a given bunion deformity, one program may primarily do Austin-Akins, whereas
other programs may never do an Akin, and still others may always do a Lapidus in the exact same situation. Some people may feel very
strongly in favor of the lateral release, while others may never do it for any situation. This could even happen between two attendings at
the same program in the same room during your interview! If you give a hard, definitive answer for a procedure choice, one attending may
completely agree with you while another may think it’s completely the wrong choice. So if you are asked what type of procedure you
would do for a given situation, be as general as possible, but always give the reason/specific indications why you are choosing that
procedure or group of procedures. Name a couple different similar procedures instead of sticking by your guns with one procedure.
Additionally, your interviewers may not expect you to know for sure what procedure to choose, but they will definitely expect you to be
able to completely work-up the patient and know which procedures are acceptable for which indications.
The two work-ups that you should have down cold are the HAV and flatfoot work-ups. Practice, practice, practice working
through these situations out loud, and practice, practice, practice going through the radiographic analyses of these deformities out loud.
Again, RC and I found it helpful while studying for interviews to pick up random podiatry textbooks and just flip through the pages,
alternating our description of the radiographs out loud.
There are of course many, many radiographic angles that you can use to describe during either of these work-ups, so focus the
majority of your energy on those that will have the most impact on your treatment choice. Here’s the way that I think about these
deformities. This certainly isn’t the “right” way; it’s just the way that helped me as I first started doing this out loud:
HAV:
I simply use the radiographic angles to define two aspects of the deformity:
-Where is the deformity?
-In which bone or bones, and/or which joint or joints is there deformity?
-Is the deformity mild, moderate or severe?
Once you have successfully answered these questions in your mind, then the remainder of the radiographic work-up
falls into place. For example, if you identify a deformity at the first metatarsal-phalangeal joint, then you can use your
radiographic angles to define it:
“In the area of the patient’s presenting complaint I see a (mild, moderate, or severe) hallux abductovalgus deformity at
the level of the metatarsal-phalangeal joint as defined by a (mildly, moderately, or severely) increased intermetatarsal angle,
(mildly, moderately, or severely) increased hallux abductus angle, and approximate tibial sesamoid position of (1-7). The PASA
and DASA of this joint appear (within normal limits or deviated). There (does or does not) appear to be a hallux interphalangeus
deformity as defined by the (increased or normal) hallux interphalangeus angle. The overall length of the first metatarsal appears
(normal, shortened, or long) compared to the remainder of the lesser metatarsal parabola on the AP view. On the lateral view the
first metatarsal appears (dorsiflexed, plantarflexed, or normal) compared to the second metatarsal using Seiberg’s index. There
(is or is not) an underlying metatarsus adductus as defined by the metatarsus adductus and Engle’s angles. Generally, the
rearfoot appears (rectus, pronated, or supinated) as defined by…”
Now that you have defined the location and severity of the deformity with your angles, suggest procedures based on
these specific abnormal findings. For every abnormality that you described, suggest a procedure (or group of procedures) to
correct it. “I would consider doing a distal metatarsal osteotomy in this case to laterally translate and plantarflex the capital
fragment of the first metatarsal to decrease the intermetatarsal and hallux abductus angles in addition to reducing the sesamoids.”
If you described the DASA and interphalangeus angles as normal, then don’t suggest an Akin procedure! If you described a mild
deformity, then don’t suggest procedures that are indicated for moderate to severe deformities!
I also use the above questions to classify each and every surgical procedure. For each surgical procedure I think: This
procedure will correct for a (mild, moderate, or severe) deformity of this bone or at that joint.
Flatfoot:
Here I use a similar approach, but think of it in terms of planal dominance:
-In which plane does the deformity present?
“Consistent with the patient’s presenting complaint we see a (mild, moderate, or severe) pes planovalgus deformity. In
the sagittal plane I see a (decreased or increased) calcaneal inclination angle, talar declination angle, talar-calcaneal angle, first
metatarsal inclination angle, Meary’s angle, and medial column fault on the lateral view. I would also evaluate the patient for
equinus using the Silfverskiold test to determine a sagittal plane deformity. In the transverse plane I see a (decreased or
increased) talar-calcaneal angle, cuboid abduction angle, talar head coverage, talar-first metatarsal angle, metatarsus adductus
angle on the AP view. In the frontal plane we can see the Cyma Line is (anteriorly displaced, posteriorly displaced or normal) on
the lateral view, and that the subtalar joint alignment, ankle joint alignment and calcaneal position are (normal or abnormal) on
the long leg calcaneal axial views.”
Now that you have defined the deformity on your own terms, you can now suggest how to fix it using the same tools.
“I would consider performing a (Gastroc recession, TAL, Cotton osteotomy, medial column arthrodesis, etc.) to correct for the
sagittal plane deformity, a (Evans osteotomy, CC joint distraction arthrodesis, etc.) to correct for the transverse plane deformity,
and a (medial calcaneal slide, STJ implant, etc.) to correct for the frontal plane deformity.
This is a little philosophic, but radiographic angles aren’t real. They only come into reality if you use them, so only
use them as tools to your advantage. You can use them to first define the deformity on your own terms, and then to show
that your intervention was successful.
85
AJM Sheet: Digital Deformity Work-Up
Subjective
-CC: Pt can complain of generalized “corns, calluses and hammertoes.”
-HPI: -Nature: “Sharp, aching and/or sore” type pain. May have a “tired feeling” in the feet.
-Location: Usually dorsal PIPJ/DIPJ of the toes or submetatarsal
-Course: Progressive onset and course.
-Aggravating factors: WB, shoe gear (especially tight shoes)
-Alleviating factors: NWB, wide shoebox, sandals
-PMH/PSH/Meds/Allergies/SH/FH/ROS: Usually non-contributory
Objective
Physical Exam
-Derm: -Hyperkeratotic lesions can be seen submetatarsal, dorsal PIPJ or DIPJ of the lesser digits, distal tuft of the lesser digits, or
interdigitally. All can have erythema, calor and associated bursitis.
-5th digit is usually dorsolateral at the PIPJ, DIPJ or lateral nail fold (Lister’s corn). Hyperkeratotic lesion of the adjuvant 4th
interspace may also be present (heloma molle).
-Vasc/Neuro: Usually non-contributory
-Ortho: -See discussion on pathomechanics
-Positive Coughlin test: Vertical shift of >50% of the proximal phalanx base on the met head. Also called the “draw sign” or
Lachman’s test.
-Kelikian push-up test: Differentiate between a soft-tissue and osseous deformity
-Specific to the 5th digit:
-Toe usually has a unique triplanar deformity (dorsiflexion, adduction and varus).
-Bunionette, splay foot and equinus may be present
-The 5th digit is in the most susceptible position in terms of a muscular imbalance deformity because the FDL has such
an oblique pull on the 5th digit as opposed to the relatively axial pull of the other digits.
Imaging
-Plain film radiograph: “Gun barrel” sign
Specific Deformities
-Hammertoe: Extension at MPJ level; flexion at PIPJ level, neutral/extended DIPJ
-Mallet toe: Neutral at MPJ and PIPJ level; flexion at DIPJ level
-Claw toe: Extension at MPJ level; flexion at PIPJ and DIPJ level
-Curly toe: Claw/hammertoe deformity with an additional frontal plane component
-Digitus Adductus: Digital deformity with adduction in the transverse plane
-Digitus Abductus: Digital deformity with abduction in the transverse plane
-Heloma Molle: Generally occurs in the 4th interspace with a curly toe deformity of the 5th digit. Using this example, the head of the
proximal phalanx of the 5th digit abuts the base of the proximal phalanx of the 4th digit causing a hyperkeratotic lesion in the proximal 4th
interspace.
Pathomechanics
-Digital deformities are thought to occur via one of three potential mechanisms. Each involves a muscular imbalance at the digital level.
-The way AJM thinks of digits is from distal to proximal. During weight-bearing, the toes cannot function in propulsive gait to aid in load
transfer if the most distal segment is not stabilized. The distal phalanx is stabilized by the long flexor tendons holding it solidly against the
weight-bearing surface. With the distal phalanx stabilized, the short flexor tendon can hold the middle phalanx against the weight-bearing
surface. With the middle phalanx stabilized, the lumbrical muscles hold the proximal phalanx against the ground. The lumbrical muscles
must work against the extensor tendon complex, but this complex is usually not actively firing to extend the MPJ during propulsion. The
interosseous muscles also stabilize the proximal phalanx in the transverse plane. When the proximal phalanx has been effectively
stabilized against the weight-bearing surface, the head of the metatarsal can effectively move through its range of motion and transfer load
across the metatarsal parabola. Any disruption in the stabilization process will lead to abnormal biomechanics and deformity.
-Flexor Stabilization: -Most common origin of hammertoe deformity
-Occurs when the PT muscle is unable to effectively resupinate the midtarsal and subtalar joints at
the beginning of propulsion. To compensate, the FHL and FDL fire earlier, longer and with
greater force to resupinate the foot. This puts too much force on the distal and middle phalanges
causing the toe to “buckle” in a dorsiflexed position at the MPJ. This retrograde buckling puts the
PIPJ in a vulnerable dorsal position and also pushes the metatarsal head plantarly.
-Flexor Substitution: -Occurs when the triceps surae muscle group is unable to effectively plantarflex the foot during
propulsion for whatever reason. To compensate, the muscles of the deep posterior compartment
(PT, FHL, and FDL) again fire earlier, longer and with greater force leading to the same type of
deformity.
-Extensor Substitution: -Can occur in two ways
-One way is when the TA is unable to dorsiflex the foot through the swing phase. In this case the
EDL and EHL fire earlier, longer and with greater force than normal and are actually actively
extending the MPJ. This easily overpowers the lumbricals and leads to retrograde buckling.
-The other way is in a situation with anterior cavus where the EDL is actually at a mechanical
advantage over the lumbricals. Passive stretch of the EDL, rather than active contraction,
overpowers the lumbricals and leads to deformity.
86
AJM Sheet: Digital Deformity Treatment
Conservative
-Do nothing: Digital deformities are not a life-threatening condition and can be ignored if the patient is willing to put up
with it.
-Palliative care: Periodic sharp debridement of hyperkeratotic lesions
-Splints/Supports: -Metatarsal sling pads
-Silicone devices
-Toe crests
-Orthotics: -Cut-outs of high pressure areas
-Metatarsal pads to elevate the metatarsal heads
-Correction of the underlying deformity
Surgical Options
-Two approaches to remembering digital surgical options are the acronym HEECAT, and an anatomic approach thinking of
procedures moving from superficial to deep.
-HEECAT
-Head arthroplasty: Post procedure (1882)
-Extensor hood and PIPJ capsule release
-Extensor tendon lengthening
-Capsulotomy (MPJ)
-Arthrodesis (PIPJ)
-Tendon transfer (flexor longus tendon transfer to function in MPJ plantarflexion)
-Anatomic Approach
-Percutaneous tenotomy
-Both the extensor and flexor tendons can be transected through a percutaneous approach
-Extensor Tendon lengthening
-Done proximal to MPJ level with a Z-lengthening
-Capsulotomy
-Of the PIPJ and MPJ
-Remember the “J” maneuver for release of the collateral ligaments
-Extensor hood release is also usually performed
-Some use the McGlamry elevator in this step to free plantar attachments
-PIPJ Arthroplasty
-Post procedure 1882
-Resection of the head of the proximal phalanx at the surgical neck
-PIPJ Arthrodesis
-Fusion of the PIPJ using a variety of techniques: table-top, V, peg-in-hole, etc.
-Fusion maintained with K-wire crossing the MPJ extending into the distal 1/3 of the metatarsal
-Flexor Tendon Transfer
-Transfer of the FHL tendon dorsally to act as a more effective plantarflexor of the proximal
phalanx
-Girdlestone-Taylor technique: Tendon is bisected, crossed and sutured on the dorsal aspect.
-Kuwada/Dockery technique: Tendon is re-routed through a distal drill hole
-Schuberth technique: Tendon is transferred through a proximal drill hole
-Syndactyly
-Soft tissue fusion of one digit to a normal adjacent digit to help “bring it down”
-Interposing skin is removed and the digits are sutured together
-You should be able to go through the steps of a Post procedure for an interview.
-Please also review the neurovascular elements for each digit and be able to recite which cutaneous nerves supply which
corner of each digit.
87
AJM Sheet: Lesser Metatarsal Deformity Work-up
Subjective
-CC: Pt presents complaining of “pain in the ball of my foot.”
-HPI: -Nature: Generalized pain (aching, sharp, sore, etc.)
-Location: Submetatarsal. Can usually be localized to an exact metatarsal.
-Course: Gradual and progressive onset. “Has bothered me for years.”
-Aggravating factors: WB for long periods, shoe gear, etc.
-PMH/PSH/Meds/All/SH/FH/ROS: Usually non-contributory
Objective: Imaging
-Plain film radiograph: -Look for irregularities of the metatarsal parabola
-Look for excessively plantarflexed or dorsiflexed position on lateral/sesamoid axial views
General Information
-Lesser metatarsalgia has several possible etiologies:
-Retrograde force from hammertoes. Please see AJM Sheet: Digital Deformities.
-An excessively long and/or plantarflexed metatarsal leads to increased load bearing under that particular metatarsal.
-An excessively short and/or dorsiflexed metatarsal can lead to increased load bearing on the adjacent metatarsals.
-Hypermobility of the first ray leads to increased load bearing under at least the second metatarsal.
-Hypermobility of the fifth ray leads to increased load bearing under at least the fourth metatarsal.
-Anterior cavus and equinus deformities lead to increased pressures across the forefoot.
-Before a surgical option is considered, it is extremely important to understand where the increased load is coming from. The goal of
treatment should be to restore a normal parabola and weight-bearing function to the foot. Failure to correct the underlying deformity will
dramatically increase the rate of recurrence and transfer lesions.
Treatment: Conservative
-Do nothing: Lesser metatarsal deformities are not a life-threatening condition.
-Palliative care: Periodic sharp debridement of hyperkeratotic lesions
-Splints/Supports: -Metatarsal sling pads -Toe crests
-Silicone devices
-Orthotics: -Cut-outs of high pressure areas
-Metatarsal pads to elevate the metatarsal heads
-Correction of the underlying deformity
Treatment: Surgical
-Structural correction of lesser metatarsals
-Distal metatarsal procedures
-Duvries: plantar condylectomy on both sides of the MPJ
-Jacoby: “V” shaped cut in the metatarsal neck to allow for dorsiflexion of the head
-Chevron: “V” shaped cut similar to a Jacoby, but with removal of a wedge of bone to obtain metatarsal shortening as
well.
-Dorsiflexory wedge osteotomy: similar to a Watermann of the first metatarsal
-Weil: Distal dorsal to proximal plantar oblique cut to allow for distal metatarsal dorsiflexion and shortening. Can be
made in several planes to obtain desired dorsiflexory/shortening effects.
-Osteoclasis: Through and through cut through the metatarsal neck allowing the distal head to find its own plane.
Subjective/Objective
-Very similar to work-ups for lesser metatarsal deformities and digital deformities. Pts may complain of pain related to the
lateral column in general, 5th digit, plantar 5th met head, lateral 5th met head or 4th interspace heloma molle.
Imaging
-Plain Film Radiograph: -4-5 Intermetatarsal Angle > 9 degrees (Normal is 6.47 degrees per Fallat and Buckholtz)
-Lateral Deviation Angle > 8 degrees (Normal is 2.64 degrees per Fallat and Buckholtz)
-[Fallat LM, Buckholtz J. J Am Podiatry Assoc. 1980 Dec; 70(12): 597-603.]
-Splay Foot Deformity
-Plantarflexed 5th metatarsal position
-Structural changes to 5th metatarsal head
General Information
-Etiology
-Numerous authors have chimed in on the etiology of the 5th Metatarsal Deformity:
-Davies: incomplete development of deep transverse metatarsal ligament
-Gray: malinsertion of adductor hallucis muscle
-Lelievre: forefoot splay
-Yancey: congenital bowing of metatarsal shaft
-Root: abnormal STJ pronation
-CMINT, etc, etc, etc.
Treatment
Conservative
-Do nothing: 5th metatarsal deformities are not a life-threatening condition.
-Palliative care: Periodic sharp debridement of hyperkeratotic lesions
-Splints/Supports: -Shoe gear modification with large toe box
-Derotational tapings
-Orthotics: -Cut-outs of high pressure areas
-Metatarsal pads to elevate the metatarsal heads
-Correction of the underlying deformity
Surgical
-Exostectomy: Removal of prominent lateral eminence from 5th met head
-Arthroplasty: Removal of part/whole of 5th met head
-Distal Metatarsal Osteotomies:
-Reverse Hohmann
-Reverse Wilson
-Reverse Austin
-Crawford: “L” shaped osteotomy allows for insertion of cortical screws
-LODO (Long Oblique Distal Osteotomy): similar to Crawford but simply oblique
-Read [London BP, Stern SF, et al. Long oblique distal osteotomy of the fifth metatarsal for correction of tailor's bunion: a
retrospective review. J Foot Ankle Surg. 2003 Jan-Feb;42(1):36-42.] Especially if externing at Inova!
-Medially-based wedge
-Proximal Osteotomies:
-Transverse cuts
-Oblique cuts
-Medially based wedges
89
AJM Sheet: HAV Work-up
Subjective
CC: “Bump pain,” “Big toe is moving over,” Typical patient is female although it is unclear whether there is a higher
incidence among females, or if there is a higher complaint incidence among females.
HPI: -Nature: Throbbing, aching-type pain
-Location: Dorsomedial 1st MPJ is most typical presentation. Pain could also be more medial (suggesting
underlying transverse plane deformity such as met adductus) or dorsal (suggesting OA of 1st MPJ).
-Course: Gradual and progressive
-Aggravating Factors: Shoe wear, WB
PMH: -Inflammatory conditions (SLE, RA, Gout, etc.)
-Ligamentous Laxity (Ehlers-Danlos, Marfan’s, Downs syndrome)
-Spastic conditions (40% incidence of HAV among those with CP)
PSH: -Previous F&A surgery
FH: -Hereditary component (63-68% family incidence among general population, 94% with juvenile HAV)
-Johnston reports an autosomal dominant component with incomplete penetrance
Meds/All: Usually non-contributory
ROS: Usually non-contributory
90
AJM List: HAV Procedures and Indications
Distal Phalanx
1. Medial Nail Bed Rotation: Corrects soft tissue mal-alignment
Hallux IPJ
2. Amputation of the distal phalanx: Permanent correction of abnormal Hallux Interphalangeus Angle (HIA)
3. IPJ Fusion: Corrects abnormal HAI
Proximal Phalanx
4. Distal Akin: Corrects abnormal HAI with a medially-based wedge osteotomy at distal proximal phalanx
5. Central Akin: Corrects for long proximal phalanx seen with concurrent HL/HR
6. Oblique Akin: Corrects for distal articular set angle (DASA) midshaft proximal phalanx
7. Proximal Akin: Corrects for DASA of the proximal phalanx
8. Keller Arthroplasty: Corrects for abnormal Hallux Abductus Angle (HAA) and with concurrent HL/HR
9. Keller-Brandis Arthroplasty: Same as the Keller, but with removal of 2/3 of the proximal phalanx
10. Bonney-Kessel: Dorsiflexory osteotomy with concurrent HL/HR with modified forms correcting for abnormal DASA
11. Distal Hemi-Implant: Corrects for abnormal HAA or DASA with concurrent HL/HR
12. Regnauld: Allows for correction of DASA and abnormal proximal phalanx length in presence of HL/HR
13. Sagittal Z: Corrects for DASA and abnormal proximal phalanx length in presence of HL/HR
MPJ
14. Total Implant: Correction of HAA in presence of HL/HR
15. McKeever arthrodesis: Allows for permanent correction of DASA, PASA and HAA
16. McBride: Soft tissue reconstruction for correction of HAA
17. Modified McBride: Bone and soft tissue reconstruction for correction of HAA and medial eminence
18. Silver: Correction of medial eminence
19. Hiss: Modified McBride with Abductor hallucis advancement
20. External Fixation: Double Taylor frame for gradual soft tissue realignment
21. Hallux Amputation: Permanent correction of abnormal HAA
1st Met-Cunieform
60. Lapidus with internal fixation
61. Lapidus with external fixation
62. Cotton: OBWO of the cuneiform to correct for transverse plane
63. Westman: OBWO of the cuneiform to correct for sagittal plane
64. Cotton-Westman: OBWO of the cuneiform to correct for transverse and frontal plane
Misc.
65. 2nd digit amputation
66. EHL lengthening
91
AJM Sheet: HAV Complications
-Recurrence
-Early (<1 year)
-Usually due to wrong procedure choice, surgical error, or a post-operative complication.
-As little as 1% and as much as 14% rate reported (Kitaoka on 49 feet).
-Late (>1 year)
-Usually due to an unrecognized underlying deformity (such as met adductus, Ehlers-Danlos, equinus, 1st
met hypermobility, etc.)
-Symptoms usually worse than initial presentation
-Treatment: Distal soft tissue procedures or a proximal osteotomy usually indicated
-Hallux Varus
-Defined as a purely transverse plane adduction
-Hallux Malleus: extension at MPJ with flexion at IPJ
-Etiology
-Underlying causes: -Long 1st metatarsal
-Round 1st metatarsal head
-1st MPJ hypermobility
-MalUnion/Delayed Union/Non-Union
-Malunion
-Consolidated osteotomy with an angular or rotational deformity
-Most common is sagittal plane abnormality (“dorsal tilting”)
-Must be corrected with an osteotomy
-AVN
92
AJM Sheet: HL/HR Work-up
Subjective
CC: Pt will generally complain of a “painful big toe.”
HPI: -Nature: Aching, Dull, Throbbing
-Location: Dorsal 1st MTPJ and within the joint
-Course: Usually gradual and progressive. May follow an acute traumatic event.
-Aggravating Factors: Shoe gear, WB
-Alleviating Factors: Ice, NSAIDs, Rest
PMH: -Inflammatory Condition: RA, SLE, Gout
PSH: -Past 1st MTPJ surgery
Meds/Allergies/SH/FH: Non-contributory
ROS: Non-contributory
Objective: Imaging
Plain Film Radiographs: -Osteophytes at 1st MTPJ -Long 1st met
-Irregular Joint Space Narrowing -Long hallux proximal phalanx
-Lateral view: dorsal flag sign, dorsal lipping -Elevated 1st met
-Loose bodies (joint mice) -Osteophytes at hallux IPJ, 1st met-cun
-Square-shaped 1st met head
-HL/HR Etiology
-Many people have reported potential causes of HL/HR including Root, Lapidus and Nilsonne:
-Acute Trauma -Chronic degenerative trauma
-Pes planus with 1st met hypermobility -Long first metatarsal
-Short first metatarsal with hallux gripping -Long hallux proximal phalanx
-Iatrogenic -Compensated varus deformity
-Neuromuscular imbalance -Plantar contracture
-Spastic conditions -Square first metatarsal head shape
-Met primus elevatus
-No single characteristic has been shown to reliably lead to HL/HR except acute trauma
-Coughlin (FAI 2003) performed a retrospective analysis and seemed to demonstrate that there are no reliable underlying indicators for
development of HL/HR.
-Classification Systems
-Numerous exist; usually in the mild, moderate, severe format:
-Mild: Mild pain; Normal PROM; Radiographic evidence of osteophytes
-Moderate: Increasing pain; Decreasing PROM; Osteophytes and irregular joint space narrowing on radiograph
-Severe: Increasing pain; Decreasing PROM; Osteophytes, irregular joint space narrowing, subchondral sclerosis on radiograph.
-Rigidus: Increasing pain; Absent PROM; Sesamoid immobility
-Examples of classifications include the Regnauld, Hanft and KLL.
93
AJM Sheet: HL/HR Treatment
-Conservative
-Do nothing
-Activity modification
-Orthotics: First ray cut-out, Morton’s extension, rocker-bottom sole
-Meds: PO NSAIDs, Intra-articular corticosteroid injections
-Surgical
-Surgical options are always divided into joint-sparing and joint-destructive procedures, and further divided into
whether the correction occurs at the proximal phalanx, at the MTPJ, or at the first metatarsal.
-Joint Sparing
-Proximal Phalanx
-Bonney-Kessell
-Regnauld
-Vanore
-Sagittal “Z”
-Central Akin
-1st MTPJ
-Cheilectomy
-1st Metatarsal
-Youngswick
-Watermann
-Watermann-Green
-Jacoby
-Hohmann
-Derner
-Dorsal OBWO
-Lambrinudi
-Westman
-Joint Destructive
-Proximal Phalanx
-Keller
-Keller-Brandis
-Distal Hemi-Implant
-1st MTPJ
-Total Implant
-McKeever arthrodesis
-Valenti
-1st Metatarsal
-Mayo
-Stone
-Lapidus
94
AJM Sheet: Flatfoot Work-up
-This is a lot of information to cover in 2 pages, so these sheets will focus on clinical and radiographic signs, as well as
indications for specific surgeries. Also, will try and include a good amount of additional readings.
Subjective
-Wide range of presenting ages and complaints.
-Always think about posterior tibialis tendon dysfunction when someone complains of “medial ankle pain.”
Objective
-Underlying Orthopedic Etiologies: -Compensated forefoot varus -Forefoot valgus
-Rearfoot valgus -Equinus
-Compensated and uncompensated ab/adduction deformities
-Muscle imbalances (PTTD) -Ligamentous laxity
-Tarsal coalitions
-Planal dominance
-Normal STJ axis: 42° from transverse/16° from sagittal
-Normal MTJ-O: 52° from transverse/57°from sagittal
-Normal MTJ-L: 15° from transverse/9° from sagittal
-Clinical findings: -“Too many toes” sign (forefoot abduction) -Hubscher maneuver
-Evaluation for flexible versus rigid deformity -RCSP
-Single and double heel raise -Subjective gait analysis
-Radiographic evaluation:
-Lateral: -Decreased calcaneal inclination angle -Anterior break in Cyma line
-Increased talar declination angle -Meary’s Angle
-Increased first metatarsal declination angle -Midfoot “breaks” or “incongruity”
-Calcaneal-cuboid “break”
Classifications
-Johnson and Strom [Johnson KA, Strom DE. Tibialis posterior tendon dysfunction. CORR. 1989; 239: 196-206.]
-Later modified by Myerson who added Stage IV (he does that a lot):
-[Myerson MS. Adult acquired flatfoot deformity: treatment of dysfunction of the posterior tibial tendon. JBJS-Am. 1996;
78: 780-92.]
-[Bluman EM, et al. Posterior tibial tendon rupture: a refined classification system. Foot Ankle Clin. 2007 Jun; 12(2):
233-49.]
-Stage I: Tenosynovitis with mild tendon degeneration; flexible rearfoot; Mild weakness of single heel raise and
negative “too many toes” sign
-Stage II: Elongated tendon with tendon degeneration; flexible rearfoot; Marked weakness of single heel raise and
positive “too many toes” sign
-Stage III: Elongated and ruptured tendon; Rigid valgus rearfoot; Marked weakness of single heel raise and positive
“too many toes” sign
-Stage IV: Same as Stage III with a rigid ankle valgus
-Funk: Classification based on gross intra-operative appearance
-[Funk DA, et al. Acquired adult flatfoot secondary to posterior tibial tendon pathology. JBJS-Am. 1986; 68: 95-102.]
-Type I: Tendon Avulsions -Type III: In-continuity tears
-Type II: Complete midsubstance rupture -Type IV: Tenosynovitis
-Jahss or Janis Classifications: There are several MRI classifications generally along the lines of:
-[Conti S, Michelson J, Jahss M. Clinical significance of MRI in preoperative planning for reconstruction of posterior tibial tendon ruptures.
Foot Ankle. 1192; 13(4): 208-214.]
-[Janis LR, et al. Posterior tibial tendon rupture: classification, modified surgical repair, and retrospective study. JFAS. 1993; 31(1): 2-13.]
Additional Reading:
-[Mendicino RW, et al. A systemic approach to evaluation of the rearfoot, ankle and leg in reconstructive surgery. JAPMA. 2005; 95: 2-12.]
-[Lamm BM, Paley D. Deformity correction planning for hindfoot, ankle and lower limb. Clin Podiatr Med Surg. 2004 Jul; 21(3): 305-26.]
-[Greisberg J, Hansen, Sangeorzan. Deformity and degeneration in the hindfoot and midfoot joints of the adult acquired flatfoot. Foot Ankle Int.
2003 Jul; 24(7): 530-4.]
-[Weinraub GM, Saraiya MJ. Adult flatfoot/posterior tibial tendon dysfunction: classification and treatment. Clin Podiatr Med Surg. 2002 Jul;
19(3): 345-70.]
95
AJM Sheet: Flatfoot Treatment
-Again, this is a lot of information to cover, so we’ll just focus on organizing general procedures and indications, but supplement
it with some additional reading.
-Conservative Treatments
-Not going to be discussed here, but try reading:
-[Elftman NW. Nonsurgical treatment of adult acquired flatfoot deformity. Foot Ankle Clin. 2002 Mar; 7(1): 95-106.]
-[Marzano R. Functional bracing of the adult acquired flatfoot. Clin Podiatr Med Surg. 2007 Oct; 24(4): 645-56.]
-Additional Reading:
-[Hix J, et al. Calcaneal osteotomies for the treatment of adult-acquired flatfoot. Clin Podiatr Med Surg. 2007 Oct; 24(4): 699-719.]
-[Mosier-LaClair S, et al. Operative treatment of the difficult stage 2 adult acquired flatfoot deformity. Foot Ankle Clin. 2001 Mar; 6(1): 95-
119.]
-[Roye DP, Raimondo RA. Surgical treatment of the child’s and adolescent’s flexible flatfoot. Clin Podiatr Med Surg. 2000 Jul; 17(3): 515-30.]
-[Toolan BC, Sangeorzan, Hansen. Complex reconstruction for the treatment of dorsolateral peritalar subluxation of the foot. JBJS-Am. 1999
Nov; 81(11): 1545-60.]
-[Weinraub GM, Heilala MA. Adult flatfoot/posterior tibial tendon dysfunction: outcomes analysis of surgical treatment utilizing an algorithmic
approach. J Foot Ankle Surg. 2001 Jan-Feb; 40(1): 54-7.]
96
AJM Sheet: Cavus Foot Work-up
-The cavus foot work-up is one of the most feared in the residency interview process because of its complex nature. The most important
technique during this work-up is to use a standardized system to identify several specific variables which will let you best identify the
deformity and decide on a treatment course:
-Underlying Etiology of the Deformity (Spastic vs. Progressive vs. Stable)
-Forefoot vs. Rearfoot driven deformity (Anterior Cavus vs. Posterior Cavus)
-Plane of the Deformity (Sagittal vs. Frontal vs. Transverse vs. Combination)
-Rigid vs. Flexible
-An anterior cavus and a posterior cavus can be defined based on radiographic evidence and a physical exam measure called the
Coleman Block Test. In this test the forefoot, or the medial and lateral portions of the forefoot, are suspended off of a block. If the
calcaneus returns from a varus to a normal position, the deformity is forefoot driven. A deformity is rearfoot driven only if the varus
positioning of the calcaneus remains after all forefoot elements are removed.
97
AJM Sheet: Cavus Foot Treatment
-Soft Tissue Releases: Reduces contracture of the plantar fascia seen with long standing disease.
-Subcutaneous Fasciotomy: Cuts the plantar fascia at its insertion.
-Steindler Stripping: Removes all soft tissue from the plantar surface of the calcaneus.
-Plantar Medial Release: Releases plantar musculature and ligaments from the plantar-medial foot.
-Tendon Transfers: Used to treat flexible conditions based upon plane of the deformity.
-Jones Suspension: Transfer of EHL through the first metatarsal head.
-Heyman Procedure: Transfer of EHL and EDL tendons through each of the respective metatarsal heads.
-Hibbs Procedure: Transfer of EDL into lateral cuneiform; EHL into first metatarsal; EDB into sectioned tendons.
-STATT: Tibialis anterior is split and sutured into peroneus tertius.
-Peroneus Longus Transfer: Peroneus longus is split and anastomosed to the TA and peroneus tertius tendons.
-Peroneal Anastomosis: Increases the eversion power of the foot.
-PL/PT transfer to calcaneus: Tendons are attached into the calcaneus via bone anchors to aid weak Achilles
tendon.
-Osseous Procedures: Reduction of rigid deformities. Can be used to correct multi-planar deformities.
-Cole Procedure: Dorsiflexory wedge is removed from Chopart’s joint.
-Japas Procedure: “V” shaped osteotomy through the midfoot (apex proximal) to dorsiflex forefoot.
-Jahss Procedure: Essentially a Cole procedure performed at Lisfranc’s joint.
-Dorsiflexory Metatarsal Osteotomies
-Dwyer Osteotomy: Closing wedge osteotomy out of lateral calcaneus to reduce rigid rearfoot varus.
-Dorsiflexory Calcaneal Osteotomy: Must be used with caution
-Arthrodesis Procedures: Used as last resort to correct rigid deformities in the face of progressive disease.
-Hoke: STJ and TNJ arthrodesis
-Ryerson (1923): Triple arthrodesis
-Additional Reading:
-[Younger AS, Hansen. Adult cavovarus foot. J Am Acad Orthop Surg. 2005 Sep; 13(5): 302-25.]
-[Statler TK, Tullis BL. Pes Cavus. JAPMA. 2005; 95: 34-41.]
98
AJM Sheet: Ankle Equinus
-This sheet is not a work-up because equinus rarely presents as a chief concern, but rather as a concomitant and underlying deformity. It
may be seen and deemed correctable in the following deformities:
-Charcot arthropathy -Digital deformities
-Pes plano valgus -Met primus elevatus
-HAV -Plantar fasciitis
-Medial column hypermobility -Diabetic foot ulcerations -Etc.
-History
-First TAL: Paris on Achilles in the “Iliad”
-First medically documented procedure: Stromeyer on Dr. Charles Little. Dr. Little was a prominent physician suffering from
cerebral palsy (CP) who then became an advocate for surgical correction of equinus.
-Anatomy
-Review the origins/insertions/course/action/NV supply of the gastroc and soleus.
-Review the concept of the “twisting” fibers within the Achilles tendon.
-[White JW. Torsion of the Achilles tendon: its surgical significance. Arch Surg 1943; 46: 784-7.]
-Definitions
-Muscular Equinus
-Spastic vs. Non-Spastic
-Gastroc Equinus
-Gastroc-Soleal Equinus
-Osseous Equinus
-Tibio-talar exostosis
-Pseudoequinus
-Combination equinus
Treatment
-Conservative Treatment
-Stretching -Heel Lifts (?) -Casting
-Physical Therapy -Neuromuscular blockage injections (Botox)
-Surgical Correction
-Gastroc Equinus
-Neurectomy of motor branches of tibial nerve
-Proximal recession (Silfverskiold procedure)
-Release of muscular heads of gastroc +/- reattachment to tibia +/- neurectomy
-Distal aponeurotic recession
-Vulpius&Stoffel (1913): Inverted “V” shaped incision without suture reapproximation
-Strayer (1950): Transverse incision with proximal dissection and suturing (absorbable)
-Baker (1956): Tongue and groove with suturing (two incisions distal)
-Fulp&McGlamry: Inverted tongue and groove with suturing (two incisions proximal)
-Endoscopic recession
-Gastroc-Soleal Equinus
-Sagittal plane “Z” lengthening: equal medial and lateral portions
-Frontal plane “Z” lengthening: equal anterior and posterior portions
-Hoke Triple Hemisection (1931): 2 medial cuts/1 lateral cut
-White slide technique
-Percutaneous
-Similar to the Hoke procedure
-1cm 3cm 3 cm
Additional Reading:
-[Pinney SJ, Hansen, Sangeorzan. The effect on ankle dorsiflexion of gastrocnemius recession. Foot Ankle Int. 2002 Jan; 23(1): 26-9.]
-[Pinney SJ, Hansen, Sangeorzan. Surgical anatomy of the gastrocnemius recession. Foot Ankle Int. 2004 Apr; 25(4): 247-50.]
-[Lamm BM, Paley, Herzenberg. Gastrocnemius soleus recession: a simpler, more limited approach. JAPMA. 2005; 95: 18-25.]
-[Graham HK, Fixsen JA. Lengthening of the calcaneal tendon in spastic hemiplegia by the White slide technique. A long term review. JBJB-Br. 1988 May;
70(3): 472-75.]
99
AJM Sheet: Page 100
One of the most frequent questions asked by students and externs is “Can you give me some good articles to read?”
-I tried to do this by incorporating current and historical articles throughout this edition. All referenced articles (as well as
other suggested readings) can be found on the Inova Pubmed page:
-www.pubmed.com
-My NCBI link on the left
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In conclusion, this PRISM was not designed to help you pass the boards or even to directly
make you a better physician; it simply hopes to make you better prepared and more efficient as
you approach externships and the residency interview. Use, change, and pass this guide along as
you see fit, keeping in mind the general goal of selfless education of the next generation. Good
luck, and please don’t hesitate to contact me if there is any way that I can be of service to you.
AJMeyr@gmail.com
100
CROZER-KEYSTONE
RESIDENCY MANUAL
SECOND EDITION
Original Author
Brett Chicko, DPM
Second Edition
Sandi Pollard, DPM
Hubert Lee, DPM
Table of Contents
Introduction William Urbas, DPM ................................................................................. i
Brett Chicko, DPM ................................................................................... ii
Chapter 9 Trauma......................................................................................................85
Chapter 12 Classifications
Forefoot ..........................................................................................99
Rearfoot........................................................................................106
Other Classifications ....................................................................121
Dear Student:
In the pages that follow is useful information that will help make your externships, interviews
and transition from student to resident a little bit easier. This information contained within is not
the end all on the subject, but the tidbits that need to be on your “Mind’s Fingertips”.
This booklet is a useful guide on the need-to-know, need-to-keep information. Please use it as it
was intended--a guide on the ever-changing world of medical information. My thanks go out to
the Podiatric Surgical Residents at Crozer-Keystone Health System for the formation of this
manual.
Sincerely,
i
Author’s Introduction
This manual is NOT meant to replace “McGlamry’s”, the “Presbyterian Manual”, the “Podiatry
Institute Manual” or any other reference source. Those manuals are excellent resources and
should be used to continue to learn the information. To this day, I still use those texts for
information and reference.
This manual is based on questions I came across as an extern or a resident, either from my own
questions or questions from a superior. I would write these questions down and after I looked up
the answers, I would keep the questions with their answers in a log.
Later, as a resident, I was quizzing a student in order to get her ready for her interviews. The
student asked me, “Why can’t there be a book of these questions?” After that I started to put
together the manual. I also added some additional items to complete the manual.
In no way, shape or form do I claim that the answers written here are the only answers possible,
nor do I even claim that they are all 100% correct. These answers are the ones that I came up
with when I researched the questions. It is up to you to go to the true references--not only to
make sure that the answers are correct, but also to make sure that you understand why.
Therefore, the purpose of this manual is so that the reader can have some questions and answers
so that he or she can go to the sources and really learn podiatry.
I am not able to provide all of my sources because when I started writing down the answers, I
had no idea of turning it into a manual. However, my major sources are, “The Comprehensive
Textbook of Foot Surgery”, “The Presbyterian Manual” and “The Podiatry Institute Manual”. A
special thank you to my attendings and co-residents at the Crozer-Keystone Health Systems in
Springfield, PA, especially Dr. Urbas our residency director, mentor and friend.
ii
Anatomy
How many bones are in the foot?
26 (not including sesamoids)
What is the only bone in the foot without any muscle origin or tendon insertion?
Talus
What are the plantar muscle layers of the foot from superficial to deep?
1. Abductor hallucis, flexor digitorum brevis, abductor digiti minimi
2. Quadratus plantae, 4 lumbricals
3. Flexor hallucis brevis, adductor hallucis, flexor digiti minimi
4. 3 plantar interossei, 4 dorsal interossei
What is a fabella?
Sesamoid bone occasionally found in tendon of lateral head of gastrocnemius
Does a neuroma lie dorsal or plantar to the deep transverse intermetatarsal ligament?
Plantar
Where do these muscles run in relation to the deep transverse intermetatarsal ligament?
Interossei – dorsal
Lumbricals – plantar
What is the innervation to the plantar muscles of the foot? Blood supply?
(Never LAFF at A FAD)
N – medial plantar Nerve
L – 1st Lumbrical
A – ABH
F – FHB
F – FDB (innervated by both medial and lateral plantar nerves)
A – medial plantar Artery
F – FDB
A – ABH
D – 1st Dorsal interossei
Augmentin
What is the dose?
500 or 875 mg PO BID
How much clavulonic acid is in Augmentin 500 mg? Augmentin 875 mg?
Both have 125 mg
Zosyn
What is the dose?
3.375 g IV q6h
Renal dose – 2.25 g IV q6h
Alternate dose – 4.5 g IV q6h
Unasyn
What is the dose?
3.0 IV q6h
Renal dose – 1.5 g IV q6h
Timentin
What is the dose?
3.1 g IV q4-6h
Penicillins
Which cover Pseudomonas?
(4th and 5th generations)
piperacillin, Zosyn
ticarcillin, Timentin
carbenicillin, mezlocillin, azlocillin
Cephalosporins
What is the cross-reactivity of cephalosporins and PCN?
1-10% (depending on whom you talk to)
Vancomycin
What is the main indication?
MRSA
Does the duration a patient has been on vancomycin increase the risks of side effects?
Yes. Vancomycin has a reservoir effect: the more often a patient receives vancomycin, the
higher the chance of getting either ototoxicity or nephrotoxicity. Therefore, use vancomycin
carefully; it is a powerful drug with severe side effects.
Bactrim
What is the dose?
One tab PO BID
Zithromax
What is the dose?
250 mg PO, two tabs on the first day then one tab for the next four days
Primaxin
What is the dose?
500 mg IV q6-8h (most common) or 1 gm IV q6-8h
Invanz
What is the dose?
1 g IV q24h
Zyvox
What is the dose?
400-600 mg PO/IV q12h
What is an indication?
Oral Zyvox may be used for outpatient treatment of MRSA infections
Quinolones
What are some common quinolones?
ciprofloxacin (Cipro), levofloxacin (Levaquin), moxifloxacin (Avelox)
Aztreonam
What is the dose?
1-2 g IV q8h
Aminoglycosides
What are some major aminoglycosides?
Gentamycin, Tobramycin, Amikacin
Flagyl
What is the dose?
500 mg PO TID
MRSA
What antibiotics cover MRSA?
PO – linezolid, Minocycline, Cipro/rifampin, Bactrim/rifampin
IV – vancomycin, linezolid, minocycline, Cipro/rifampin, Bactrim/rifampin, Synercid,
tigecyclin, telavancin
Topical – Bactroban
VRE
How do you treat VRE?
linezolid or dalfopristin-quinupristin
Polymicrobial Infections
What are some empiric therapies for polymicrobial foot infections?
Vanco/Zosyn, Clinda/Cipro, Vanco/Invanz
What are the only FDA-approved drugs for treating diabetic foot infections?
(The 3 Z’s)
Zosyn
Zyvox
Invanz
Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea
What are two main causes of antibiotic-associated diarrhea?
Pseudomembranous colitis – Clostridium difficile
Non-specific colitis – Staph aureus
Miscellaneous
What antibiotics are metabolized by the liver?
(3 C’s and 1 E)
Clindamycin
Cefoperazone
Chloramphenicol
Erythromycin
What are Gram positive, catalase negative cocci that are in pairs or chains?
Streptococcus
Gram Negatives
What is a short, Gram negative rod?
Escherichia coli
What is a small Gram negative rod with pili and polar flagella?
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Anaerobes
DOC for Bacteroides?
Augmentin, Zosyn, Unasyn, Timentin
What is a large, Gram positive, anaerobic, ―racquet-shaped‖ rod that forms spores?
Clostridium perfringens
Miscellaneous
What organisms may form gas in soft tissue?
Gram positive – Clostridium perfringens, Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Peptostreptococcus
Gram negative – Bacteroides, E. coli, Klebsiella, Serratia
What is the drug of choice (DOC) for a patient with diabetes and a PCN allergy?
clindamycin
What is the most common organism that causes acute hematogenous osteomyelitis?
Staphylococcus aureus (adults), Gram negative rods (elderly)
What is the most common organism that causes osteomyelitis following a puncture wound?
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
With an infection, what is expected to happen to the WBC count after surgery?
Eventually it should go down, but in post-op days 1-2, the WBC may actually increase a bit.
This is may occur because surgery activates the body's reaction to the infection.
What are the minimum levels for hemoglobin and hematocrit for elective surgery?
Hemoglobin 10 gm/dL and Hct 30%
BMP
What is in a BMP?
Sodium, potassium, chloride, carbon dioxide, BUN, creatinine, glucose
What is in a CMP?
BMP with ALP (alkaline phosphatase), ALT (alanine amino transferase, also called SGPT),
AST (aspartate amino transferase, also called SGOT), bilirubin, albumin, total protein, calcium
PT/PTT/INR
What do PT/PTT/INR tell you?
The coagulable state of the patient. If the levels are high, it will take longer for the patient to
develop a clot and stop bleeding. It requires blockage of only one pathway to anticoagulate the
patient.
If the patient is on Coumadin for anticoagulation, what should the INR be?
Intense anticoagulation 2-3
Anesthetics
What is the mechanism of action for local anesthetics?
Block Na+ channels and conduction of action potentials along sensory nerves
What are the side effects of lidocaine and bupivacaine associated with systemic exposure?
CNS effects – initial excitation (dizziness, blurred vision, tremor, seizures) followed by
depression (respiratory depression, loss of consciousness)
Cardiovascular effects – hypotension, bradycardia, arrhythmias, cardiac arrest
For anesthesia, what cannot be given to a patient with an egg shell injury?
propofol (Diprivan)
Pain Medications
Pain management with a codeine allergy?
(STUD or STTUUDDD-N)
S – Stadol
T – Toradol
T – Talwin
U – Ultram
D – Darvon
D – Darvocet
D – Demerol
N – Nubain
Percocet 5/325?
oxycodone/acetaminophen (5 mg/325 mg)
1-2 tabs PO q4-6h prn pain
Roxicet?
oxycodone/acetaminophen (5 mg/325 mg/5 mL)
Essentially a liquid form of Percocet that is good for pediatric patients
Vicodin 5/500?
hydrocodone/acetaminophen (5 mg/500 mg)
1-2 tabs PO q4-6h prn pain
Tylenol #3?
codeine/acetaminophen (30 mg/300 mg)
1-2 tabs PO q4-6h
Darvocet-N 100?
propoxyphene/acetaminophen (100 mg/650 mg)
1 tab PO q4h prn pain
Ultram?
tramadol 50 mg
1-2 tabs PO q4-6° prn pain
Toradol?
ketorolac 10 mg
30 mg IV q6h
1 tab PO q4-6h prn pain
An NSAID not to be used more than 5 days due to possible significant side effects
Darvon?
propoxyphene
1 tab PO q4h prn pain
OxyContin?
oxycodone extended release
MS Contin?
morphine sulfate extended release (15-30 mg)
1 tab PO q8-12h prn pain
Dilaudid?
hydromorphone
2-8 mg PO q3-4h prn severe pain
1-4 mg IV q4-6h prn severe pain
This drug is very strong
Demerol?
meperidine
Our hospitals do not use this due to its side effects
Acetaminophen
What therapeutic effects are seen with acetaminophen?
Analgesic and anti-pyretic
NSAIDs
What therapeutic effects are seen with most NSAIDs?
Analgesic, anti-pyretic, and anti-inflammatory
Which NSAID is often given during surgery or immediately post-op to decrease pain and
inflammation?
Toradol 30 mg IV
What is Arthrotec?
diclofenac/misoprostol – an NSAID with protection for the stomach
What drugs do NSAIDs interact with and what are the effects?
Coumadin – increases action of Coumadin
Sulfonylureas – increases action of sulfonylureas
Corticosteroids – increases GI risk
Anti-epileptics – increases anti-epileptic toxicity
Antihypertensives – antagonizes antihypertensive meds
Digoxin – increases digoxin’s effect
Methotrexate – decreases methotrexate’s clearance
Lithium – decreases lithium’s clearance
Probenecid – increases concentration of NSADs
Anticoagulation
What are causes of acute arterial occlusion?
Embolism – detached thrombus, air, fat, or tumor
Thrombus – occlusion of vessel by plaque or thickened wall
Extrinsic occlusion – traumatic, blunt, penetrating
For long term DVT prophylaxis, what drugs can be ordered? Why?
Heparin – works right away
Coumadin – takes 3-5 days and causes an initial transient hypercoagulable state
What are the advantages of using Lovenox vs. regular Heparin? Disadvantages?
Advantages – Lovenox has longer plasma half-life with significant anticoagulation in trough
Disadvantages – increased post-op complications when used with spinal/epidural anesthesia
What is a surgical treatment for a patient with prior DVTs or recurrent PEs?
Greenfield filter
What is Pletal?
cilostazol
What is Trental?
pentoxifylline
CRPS
What is CRPS?
Complex regional pain syndrome (previously known as RSD – reflex sympathetic dystrophy) is
a progressive disease of the autonomic nervous system causing constant, extreme pain that is out
of proportion to the original injury
Diabetes
For diabetic patients, who gets diabetic ketoacidosis and who gets diabetic coma?
Type I (IDDM) – DKA
Type II (NIDDM) – coma
What are the only FDA-approved drugs for treating diabetic neuropathy?
duloxetine (Cymbalta)
pregabalin (Lyrica)
Osteoarthritis
What are clinical findings of OA?
Pain relieved with rest
Stiffness aggravated with activity
Crepitus with motion
Asymmetric joint swelling
Gout
What is the most common inflammatory arthritis in men over 30?
Gout
Rheumatoid Arthritis
What are clinical findings of RA?
Symmetric, progressive, polyarticular, and degenerative inflammatory arthritis
Age of onset between 3-4th decades
Females > males
Pain first thing in morning
Stiffness after rest and reduced with activity
Rheumatoid nodules (25%)
Nail fold infarcts, splinter hemorrhages
Swan neck deformities – flexed DIPJ and extended PIPJ
Boutonniere deformities – extended DIPJ and flexed PIPJ
Other – bullous dermatosis, Raynaud phenomenon, vasculitis
What is pannus?
Granulation tissue that secretes chondrolytic enzymes which break down articular cartilage
Psoriatic Arthritis
What are clinical findings of PA?
Polyarthritis including DIPJ involvement
Sausage digits
Psoriatic skin changes
Nail lesions
Ankylosing Spondylitis
What are clinical findings of AS?
Mostly males affected
Bilateral sacroiliitis – low back pain and stiffness
Heel pain
Peripheral joint pain
Other Diseases
What is brachymetatarsia?
Premature closure of epiphyseal plate of metatarsal resulting in a short metatarsal
Usually the 4th metatarsal is affected
What is achondroplasia?
Dwarfism – all bones short with tibia undergrowth and fibular overgrowth causing genu varum
What is DISH?
Diffuse Ideopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis – characterized by multiple ossifications at tendinous
or ligamentous insertions
What is erythrasma?
Chronic, superficial infection of intertriginous skin caused by Corynebacterium minutissimum.
Interdigital lesions appear as maceration.
What is ecthyma?
Ulcerative pyoderma of the skin often caused by Streptococci. Infection extends into dermis and
is characterized by ulcers with overlying crusts.
What is cellulitis?
Acute spreading infection of dermal and subcutaneous tissue commonly caused by group A Strep
or Staph aureus. Affected area is erythematous, warm, edematous, and tender.
What is erysipelas?
Superficial infection that extends into the lymphatics. Lesions are erythematous, indurated with
sharply-demarcated margins, and have erythematous, ascending streaks.
What is lymphangitis?
Inflammation of the lymphatics as a result of a distal infection
What is psoriasis?
Hereditary disorder with chronic scaling papules and plaques in areas of body related to repeated
minor trauma. Positive Koebner phenomenon and Auspitz sign. Also present are joint pain and
nail changes including pitting, beau lines, oil spot, subungual hyperkeratosis, and discoloration.
Miscellaneous Drugs
What are some effects of steroids?
Anti-inflammatory
Decreases production of prostaglandins, cytokines, and interleukins
Decreases proliferation and migration of lymphocytes and macrophages
Metabolic
Decreases osteoblast activity
What is diazepam?
Valium, a benzodiazepine, is an anxiolytic/anticonvulsant/muscle relaxant
What is chloramphenicol?
An antimicrobial
What are the clinical patterns of onychomycosis? What are common infecting organisms?
Distal subungual onychomycosis (DSO) ~ 90%
Most common
Trichophyton rubrum
Proximal subungual onychomycosis (PSO) ~ 1%
Seen in immunocompromised patients
Trichophyton rubrum
Superficial white onychomycosis (SWO) ~ 10%
Trichophyton mentagrophytes
Candidal onychomycosis
Candida albicans
What is phenol?
Carbolic acid
For a nail avulsion, what can be done for anesthesia if the patient is allergic to all local
anesthetics?
Saline block (pressure induced block)
Pressure cuff
Benadryl block (blocks histamine release)
What is Q angle?
Angle between the axis of the femur and the line between the patella and tibial tuberosity
What is an ABI?
Ankle Brachial Index – compares ankle to arm pressures
Normal 1
Intermittent claudication 0.6-0.8
Rest pain 0.4-0.6
Ischemic ulcerations <0.4
Most malignant?
Nodular melanoma – may be misdiagnosed as pyogenic granuloma
Most benign?
Lentigo melanoma – typically found on back, arms, neck, and scalp
What vascular malignancy appears as red-blue plaques or nodules and has a high
incidence in AIDS?
Kaposi sarcoma
What additional radiographic study should be obtained for neonates with CCPV?
Lumbosacral films
Coalitions
What are three coalitions of the rearfoot?
Talocalcaneal, calcaneonavicular, and talonavicular
Asymptomatic?
T-N
The middle and posterior facets are best seen by which radiographic view?
Harris Beath
Clubfoot
What are the 3 components of clubfoot?
FF adductus, RF varus, ankle equinus
Metatarsals/MPJ
Metatarsal length
Longest 2 > 3 > 5 > 4 > 1 shortest
Metatarsal protrusion
Longest 2 > 3 > 1 > 4 > 5 shortest
Splayfoot
IM angle of 1st and 2nd metatarsals
Pathologic >12°
Splayfoot
1st IM angle >12° and 4th IM angle >8°
With metatarsus primus adductus, there is a high predilection of splayfoot
Talus
Talar neck angle
Long axis of head and neck with long axis of the body
Birth 130-140°
Adult 150-165°
Talo-navicular joint
Normal 75° coverage
Pronation – decreases coverage
Supination – increases coverage
Forefoot abductus
Normal 8° (0-15°)
Calcaneus
Calcaneal inclination angle
Normal 21°
Pronation – decreases
Supination – increases
Calcaneal-cuboid abduction
Normal 0-5°
Increases with pronation
STJ ROM
From neutral, 2/3 motion in inversion (20°) and 1/3 in eversion (10°)
Bohler angle
Angle formed by the intersection of a line from the superior aspect of the anterior process to
superior aspect of the posterior facet and another line from the superior aspect of the posterior
facet to superior point of the calcaneal process
Normal 25-40°
Decreases with intra-articular calcaneal fracture
Gissane angle
Angle formed by the intersection of a line along the posterior facet and another line along the
middle and anterior facets
Normal is 125-140°
Increases with intra-articular calcaneal fracture
Toyger angle
Line drawn down posterior aspect
Normal should be a straight line (180°)
Decreases with Achilles rupture
Axis
Lateral, posterior, plantar → medial, anterior, dorsal
Tibia
Tibial torsion
Birth 0°
6 years 13-18°
Adult 18-23°
Tibial varum/valgum
Compare distal 1/3 of tibia to ground
Birth 5-10° varum
>2 years 2-3° valgum
Femur
Angle of inclination
1 year 146°
4 years 137°
Adult 120-136° (avg 127°)
Angle of anteversion
Birth 60°
Adult 10-12°
Rotation of hip
Adults Children
Internal rotation 35-40° 20-25°
External rotation 35-40° 45-50°
Knee flexion/extension
Flexion 130-150°
Extension 5-10°
Clinical Tests
What is the Ortolani test?
Test for congenital hip dislocation in newborns. With newborn supine and hip and knees flexed,
the hips are adducted while pressing downward and abducted while lifting upward. An unstable
hip will dislocate when adducted and reduce when abducted.
Barlow test?
Test for a hip that is dislocatable but not dislocated in infants. With infant supine and hip and
knees flexed, push posteriorly in line with the shaft of femur. An unstable femoral head will
dislocate posteriorly from acetabulum.
Trendelenberg test?
Test for weak hip abductors. As patient stands on affected limb, pelvis drops to opposite side.
Peri-operative Management
What pre-op orders are needed for an in-house patient?
NPO after midnight, except AM meds with sips of water
Hold all AM hypoglycemics and cover with SSI (if patient with DM)
Accu-Check on call to OR (if patient with DM)
Begin ½NSS @ 60 mL/h at 0600 (D5W½NSS if patient with DM)
Labs – CBC with diff, PT/PTT/INR, BMP
Chest X-ray, EKG (if necessary)
Consult medicine for medical clearance (if not already done)
Anesthesia to see patient (if necessary)
If a patient with a high INR undergoes surgery, what labs should be carefully monitored?
Hgb and Hct
Plastic Surgery
How are relaxed skin tension lines (RSTL) oriented?
Perpendicular to the long axis of the leg and foot
To close a lesion with minimal tension, what should the ratio of length to width be?
3:1 length:width
To correct a 5th digit adductovarus rotation, how should the skin incision be oriented?
Distal medial to proximal lateral
Fixation Devices
AO principles of internal fixation (2002)
Anatomic articular reduction, adequate shaft reduction
Stable/biologic fixation
Preservation of blood supply
Early ROM
AO principles (1958)
Anatomic reduction
Rigid internal fixation
Preservation of blood supply
Early ROM
What are the screw sizes? What are their underdrill sizes? Overdrill? Countersink?
Mini Fragment
Small Fragment
Large Fragment
Sizes 4.5 4.5 malleolar 6.5 partially threaded 6.5 fully threaded
Overdrill 4.5 4.5 6.5 6.5
Underdrill 3.2 3.2 3.2 3.2
Countersink 4.5 4.5 6.5 6.5
What is orthofix?
Polyglycolic acid (same as dexon)
What is orthosorb?
PDS (PDS=orthosorb)
What are the two sutures that are the least reactive to tissue?
Stainless steel (least reactive), Prolene
What is Vicryl?
Polyglactin 910 (a copolymer of 90% glycolide and 10% lactide)
Arthroscopy
Who first describe arthroscopy?
Takagi
Who were the first podiatrists to describe a podiatric use for arthroscopy?
Heller & Vogel (1982)
What are treatments for blue toe due to sluggish venous outflow?
D/C ice (but not elevation)
Loosen bandages
Avoid dependency
Don’t attempt to increase vascular perfusion
Consult vascular surgery
What is an arthroereisis?
A surgical procedure to limit joint mobility (i.e. MBA implant in sinus tarsi)
Typically want 2-4° of STJ eversion with implant
What order do you resect and what order do you fixate the joints in a triple arthrodesis?
Resection
1. Midtarsal joints (T-N, CCJ)
2. Subtalar joint (T-C)
Fixation (opposite order)
1. Subtalar joint
2. Midtarsal joints
What is a pseudoarthrosis?
Type of non-union in which fibrocartilaginous tissue forms between fracture fragments
Bone Grafts
What are the different types of bone grafts?
Osteogenic – able to synthesize new bone
Mesenchymal stem cells from autologous bone or bone marrow aspirate
Osteoinductive – contains factors that induce host tissue to form new bone
Demineralized bone matrix
Bone morphogenic protein
Platelet-derived growth factors
Osteoconductive – provides scaffold for host tissue to propagate new bone
Allografts
Hydroxyapatite
Calcium phosphate
Calcium sulfate
Miscellaneous
What is the ASA classification for general anesthesia?
Class 1 – healthy
Class 2 – mild systemic disease
Class 3 – severe systemic disease
Class 4 – incapacitating systemic disease that is a threat to life
Class 5 – moribund patient who is not expected to live without surgery
Emergency
What is the direction of the cut for reverse Wilson of the 5th metatarsal?
Distal lateral to proximal medial
Talar Fractures
What is the classification for talar dome lesions?
Berndt & Hardy
What stages of Berndt & Hardy are often associated with lateral ankle ligament ruptures?
II, III, IV
Calcaneal Fractures
What is a Mondor sign?
Plantar, rearfoot ecchymosis that is pathognomonic for calcaneal fractures
Ligamentous Ruptures
What are tests for ankle ligament pathology?
Anterior drawer test
Calcaneofibular-stress inversion
Abduction stress
Ankle arthrogram
Peroneal tenography
Where is the most common location for the Achilles tendon to rupture?
1.5-4 cm proximal to the calcaneal insertion
Ankle Fractures
Name the fractures
Pott Bimalleolar fracture
Cotton Trimalleolar fracture
Tillaux-Chaput Avulsion fracture of anterior, lateral tibia from AITFL
Wagstaff Avulsion fracture of anterior, medial fibula from AITFL
Volkman Posterior tibial malleolar fracture from PITFL
Cedell Fracture of posterior medial process
Shepard Fracture of posterior lateral process
Foster Entire posterior process
Bosworth Lateral malleolar fracture with ankle displacement
Maisonneuve Proximal fibular fracture
What is the MOI causing a short, oblique lateral malleolar fracture (AP view)?
PAB III
What is the MOI causing a spiral, lateral malleolar fracture with a posterior spike (AP and
Lateral views)?
SER II
What is the MOI to the ankle with a high fibular fracture? What is this fracture called?
PER III
Maisonneuve fracture
Centrally located
Enchondroma
Unicameral bone cyst
Eccentrically located within medullary canal
Giant cell tumor
Chondrosarcoma
Osteosarcoma
Cortical
Osteoid osteoma
Nonossifying fibroma
What is the most common bone tumor associated with Paget disease?
Osteosarcoma
What is Santyl?
collagenase – an enzymatic debrider that digests collagen in necrotic tissue
What is Regranex?
PDGF-1 (platelet derived growth factor)
Using transcutaneous oximetry, what minimum pressure is necessary for wound healing?
Non-diabetic patient – 30 mm Hg
Diabetic patient – 40 mm Hg
Bioengineered Tissue
What is Integra?
Bilayer graft composed of bovine tendon collagen with chondroitin-6-sulfate and a silicone layer
to control moisture loss
Oasis?
Extracellular graft matrix derived from porcine, small intestine submucosa
Apligraf?
Bilayer graft derived from neonatal foreskin with dermal and epidermal layers
GraftJacket?
Extracellular graft matrix derived from human tissue with intact vascular channels
TissueMend?
Acellular collagen matrix derived from fetal bovine dermis
Forefoot
Hallux Valgus
Stage 1
Excess pronation causes hypermobility of 1st ray. Tibial sesamoid ligament gets stretched
& fibular sesamoid ligament contracts.
Lateral subluxation of proximal phalanx occurs
Stage 2
Hallux abductus progresses, touches against 2nd digit
FHL & FHB gain lateral mechanical advantage
Crista starts to erode
Stage 3
Further subluxation at 1st MPJ, formation of IMA
IMA increases secondary to retrograde forces from abductor hallucis
Stage 4
Hallux subluxes & dislocates on 1st metatarsal
Increased crista erosion
Hallux Limitus
REGNAULD (Foot, 1986)
Grade 1 – functional hallux limitus with dorsal spurring
Intact sesamoids with no associated disease
Joint enlargement but joint space narrowing and arthrosis
<40° dorsiflexion and <20° plantarflexion
Grade 2 – broad flat metatarsal head with structural elevatus and significant spurring
Pain at rest
Osteochondral defects in metatarsal head and sesamoidal hypertrophy
Joint space hypertrophy and narrowing
75% decrease in total ROM
Grade 3 – ankylosis and articular hypertrophy with extensive peri-articular osteophytes
Osteochondral defect with joint mice and extensive 1st metatarsal-sesamoid disease
Severe loss of joint space or collapse of joint → bone on bone
FDL contracture
Stewart (Clin Ortho, 1960) – Stewart described only the first 4 types
Type 1 – transverse fracture at the metaphyseal-diaphyseal junction of 5th metatarsal base
approximately 1 cm from the articular cartilage. This is due to rotation of the forefoot
with the base of the 5th metatarsal remaining fixed.
True Jones fracture (Sir Robert Jones 1902-4 fractures his own)
This type of injury has a high propensity for non-union
MOI: internal rotation, PF ankle, and adduction of forefoot
Tx if non-displaced: BK NWB cast for 4-6 weeks
Tx if displaced: ORIF
Champman
Type 1A – Jones fracture
Type 1B – displaced Jones fracture with possible comminution
Type 2 – delayed or non-union of a Jones fracture
Type 3A – avulsion fracture of the styloid
Type 3B – intra-articular fracture of the styloid
Metatarsal Head
Freiberg Infarction
Type 1 – metatarsal head dies but heals by replacement. Articular surface preserved.
Type 2 – head collapses but articular surface remains. Peripheral osteophytes (dorsal).
Type 3 – head collapses with articular cartilage loosening. Joint is destroyed.
Type 4 – multiple heads involved
Lisfranc Dislocations
QUENU & KUSS (Rev Chir, 39:281-336,720-91,1093-134, 1909)
Convergent homolateral
All metatarsals subluxed laterally
All 5 metatarsals displaced laterally in the transverse plane
Isolateral
1st metatarsal subluxed medially or metatarsals 2-5 subluxed laterally
1 or 2 metatarsals displaced laterally in the transverse plane
Divergent
1st metatarsal subluxed medially and metatarsals 2-5 subluxed laterally
Displacement in both sagittal and transverse planes
Reduction Sequence
1. First realign 2nd metatarsal on middle cuneiform. Once stabilized, lesser metatarsals will
follow.
2. Next stabilize 1st metatarsal and then lateral metatarsals
Post-op Care
BK casting for 6 to 12 weeks
Initial NWB for 6-8 weeks
Partial WB approximately 6 weeks
Begin ambulation in stiff-soled shoe
PT ASAP
Accommodative orthotics
Complications
Majority – post-op DJD
Serious – circulatory compromise
Navicular Fractures
WATSON-JONES (condensed)
Type 1 – navicular tuberosity fracture
Type 2 – dorsal lip fracture
Type 3 – transverse body fracture
3A – fracture of body without displacement
3B – fracture of body with displacement
Type 4 – stress fracture
WATSON-JONES (Fracture and Joint Injuries, Watson & Jones, 5th ed, p 1200)
Type 1 – navicular tuberosity fracture
Usually an avulsion fracture by tibialis posterior tendon
24% of navicular fractures
Nutcracker fracture – displaced fracture with compression fracture of the cuboid between
4th and 5th metatarsal bases and calcaneus
MOI: forceful eversion w/medial avulsion of the PT off the tuberosity or
Navicular Classifications
Wilson
Chip, comminuted, and crush
Watson Jones
Tuberosity, dorsal lip, and transverse
DePalma
Dorsal lip, avulsion, tuberosity, and fracture dislocation
Goldman
Chip, tuberosity, body, displaced, and osteochondral fracture
Closed reduction
Used if <2 mm displacement
ORIF
Incisional Approaches
Medial Approach: Burdeaux
Combined Approach: Stephenson
Extended Lateral Approach: Benirschke
Procedure
Goal is to restore the STJ and C-C articulation
Perform surgery within 6-8 hours of the injury or wait until the swelling is reduced
Reduction is performed by placing a Steinmann pin through the tuberosity fragment to
restore the STJ posterior facet. Once aligned, the tuberosity fragment is fixated to the
constant fragment (sustentaculum fragment). Various plates can be used as a buttress.
Before arthrodesis is performed, CR or ORIF should be attempted
Rates of osteonecrosis
Type 1 (0-13%)
Type 2 (20-50%)
Types 3, 4 (83-100%)
MRI can define the presence and extent of osteonecrosis in the talar body as early as 3 weeks
Hawkin sign – presence of subchondral talar dome osteopenia seen 6-8 weeks after talar fracture
signifying intact vascularity. Absence of the sign implies AVN.
Up to 36 months are required for complete creeping substitution of the body after union has
occurred. Protect the patient from WB until complete revascularization occurs. A patellar
tendon brace may partially relieve the load on the talar dome once WB is initiated.
23% of open talar fractures go on to osteomyelitis and may result in future talectomy
Treatments
Tx of Stages 1, 2, and medial 3: NWB Short leg cast for 6-12 wks
Tx of lateral stage 3 and 4: surgical excision of the fragment, saucerize the crater, and
STJ Dislocations
Buckingham
Type 1 – medial STJ dislocation (FF moves medially and talar head moves laterally)
Type 2 – lateral STJ dislocation
Type 3 – anterior and posterior STJ dislocation
Tarsal Coalitions
DOWNEY (JAPMA, 81:187-197, 1991)
Juvenile (Osseous Immature)
Type 1 – extra-articular coalition
A – no secondary arthritis
Tx: Badgley procedure
B – secondary arthritis
Tx: resection or triple
Type 2 – intra-articular
A – no secondary arthritis
Tx: resection, isolated arthrodesis, or triple
B – secondary arthritis
Tx: triple
Chopart Fractures
Main & Jowett (JBJS, 57B:89, 1975)
Classification based on direction of deforming force and resulting displacement
Medial force
Type A – flake fracture of dorsal talus or navicular and of the lateral calcaneus or cuboid
Type B – medial displacement of forefoot with medial disassociation of T-N and C-C
joints
Type C – forefoot rotates medially around interosseous talocalcaneal ligament, with T-N
disassociation and intact C-C joint
Longitudinal force
Type A – maximally plantarflexed ankle giving a characteristic pattern of through and
through navicular compression fracture
Al – force through the 1st ray crushes medial 3rd with tuberosity displaced
medially
A2 – force through the 2nd ray crushes middle 3rd with middle 3rd and tuberosity
displaced medially
A3 – force through the 3rd ray crushes lateral 3rd with medial 2/3rd and tuberosity
displaced medially
Type B – submaximally plantarflexed ankle resulting in dorsal displacement of the
superior navicular and crush of the inferior portion
Lateral forces
Type A – forefoot forced into valgus with resulting fracture of the navicular tuberosity or
dorsal talus and a compression fracture of the C-C joint (Nutcracker Fracture)
Type B – T-N joint displaces laterally with comminution of the C-C joint
Plantar forces
Type A – avulsion fracture of the dorsal navicular to talus and the anterior process
Type B – impaction fracture of the inferior C-C joint
Ankle Fractures
LAUGE-HANSEN
1st word – position of the foot with respect to the leg
2nd word – motion that causes fracture pattern (how talus moves with respect to tibia/fibula)
* indicates hallmark sign
Pilon Fractures
Lauge-Hansen
Pronation-Dorsiflexion (Arch Surg 67:813-820, 1953)
Stage 1 – deltoid ligament rupture or medial malleolar fracture (oblique or transverse)
Stage 2 – fracture of the anterior lip of the tibial plafond
Stage 3 – fibular fracture above the level of the syndesmosis
Stage 4 – transverse fracture of distal tibia at level of proximal margin of the large tibial fracture
Destot System
Subgroup 1 – posterior marginal tibial fracture
Subgroup 2 – anterior marginal tibial fracture
Subgroup 3 – explosive tibial fracture
Subgroup 4 – supra-articular tibial fracture with extension into the ankle joint
O'Donoghue (condensed)
Grade 1 – partial ATF tear
Grade 2 – complete ATF tear
Grade 3 – complete ATF and CFL tear
Physeal Injuries
Salter-Harris Classification of Fractures
Site – epiphysis, metaphysis, diaphysis
Extent – complete vs. incomplete
Configuration – transverse, oblique, spiral, comminuted
Position – rotated, angulated, distracted, impacted, overriding, lateral shift
Environment – open, closed
Rang
Type 6 – perichondral injury produced by shearing force resulting in a cup-shaped fragment of
epiphyseal, physeal, and metaphyseal bone with possible degloving
Tear of the ―ring of Lacroix‖
Ogden
Type 7 – intra-epiphyseal fracture not involving the physis
Type 8 – transverse fracture of the metaphysis only
Type 9 – diaphyseal growth injury resulting in periosteal elevation and possible degloving of the
periosteum
Poland
Type 1 – separation of the epiphysis from the metaphysis
Type 2 – partial separation of the epiphysis from the metaphysis with fracture of the diaphysis
Thurston-Holland sign
Type 3 – partial separation of epiphysis from the metaphysis with fracture of the epiphysis
Type 4 – complete separation of the epiphysis from metaphysis with fracture of the epiphysis
Weber
Type A – extra-articular
Al – separation of the epiphysis and metaphysis
A2 – fragments in the epiphysis or metaphysis
Type B – intra-articular
Bl – fracture within the physis extending into the epiphysis
B2 – fracture through the epiphysis, physis, and metaphysis
MRI Rupture
CONTI
Stage 1 – 1-2 fine, longitudinal tears
Stage 2 – intramural degeneration, variable diameter
Stage 3 – diffuse swelling
Eversion Injury
Stage 1 – medial dislocation of 1st metatarsal
Stage 2 – dorsolateral dislocation of lesser 4 metatarsals with divergent diastasis
Non-Union of Fractures
WEBER & CECH
Hypertrophic – hypervascular (90%)
Elephant foot
Horse hoof
Oligotrophic
Atrophic – avascular (10%)
Torsion wedge
Comminuted
Defect
Atrophic
Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society (formerly I.A.E.T., Standards of Care, 1987)
Stage 1 – nonblanchable erythema of intact skin
Stage 2 – partial thickness loss of skin involving epidermis, dermis, or both.
Ulcer is superficial and presents clinically as a blister or shallow crater with erythema and
induration
Stage 3 – full-thickness tissue loss involving damage to or necrosis of subcutaneous tissue that
many extend down to, but not through underlying fascia
Ulcer presents clinically as deep crater often with undermining, erythema, and drainage
Stage 4 – full-thickness tissue loss with extensive destruction, tissue necrosis, or damage to
muscle, bone or supporting structures (e.g. tendon, joint capsule)
Undermining and sinus tracts often associated
University of Texas at San Antonio – UTSA (J Foot Ankle Surg, 35:528-531, 1996)
Grade 0 – completely epithelialized pre- or post-ulcerative lesion
Grade 1 – superficial wound not involving tendon, capsule, or bone
Grade 2 – wound penetrating to tendon or capsule
Grade 3 – wound penetrating to bone or joint
Within each grade, there are 4 subtypes:
A – non-ischemic, clean wound
B – infected wound
C – ischemic wound
D – infected and ischemic wound
Charcot
Sanders & Freykberg
1 – IPJ, phalanx, MPJ, and metatarsals
2 – Lisfranc
3 – C-N, T-N, and C-C
4 – ankle
5 – calcaneus
Malignant Melanoma
Clark (Cancer Res, 29:705-727, 1969)
Based on histological level of invasion
Level 1 – located within epidermis or epidermal-dermal junction
Level 2 – located within papillary dermis
Level 3 – located within papillary-reticular junction
Level 4 – located down into reticular dermis
Level 5 – located within subcutaneous tissue
Syndactyly
Davis & German
Type 1 – Incomplete webbing between two digits
Type 2 – Complete webbing to ends of digits
Type 3 – Simple with no phalangeal involvement
Type 4 – Complex with abnormal phalangeal bones
What does it mean if the bone scan lights up in Phases 1-2 but not in 3?
Cellulitis most likely
MRI
What causes increased signal intensity on a T1 image?
Fat
For MRI, what are the main indications for STIR imaging?
It is useful for evaluation of edema in high lipid regions, such as bone marrow.
It is also useful for evaluating cartilage.
Miscellaneous
What must you D/C before an A-gram?
Glucophage because patient may develop metabolic acidosis
* Cheilectomy
Indications: Hallux limitus
Procedure: Removal of the dorsal bone spur and dorsal ⅓ of the 1st metatarsal head
OPTIONAL – Removal of bony prominences from proximal phalanx base
DRATO
Indications: Large 1st IMA + Abnormal PASA + Valgus rotation of 1st metatarsal
Procedure: Derotational osteotomy of the 1st metatarsal head (vertical cut through metatarsal
head, cartilage is rotated for realignment, very unstable)
* Juvara
Indications: HAV (IMA >15°)
Procedure: Oblique CBWO (apex prox-med, wedge laterally with the base ending in mid ⅓
of the metatarsal, direction allows for better fixation)
* Kalish
Indications: HAV (IMA ≤15°)
Procedure: Similar to Austin but with a long dorsal arm for screw fixation (angle reduced to
55° between arms)
* Keller
Note: Used in patients >50-55 years old
Indications: HAV (IMA 16° or less) + Hallux limitus/rigidus
Procedure: Resection of the proximal ¼ to ⅓ base proximal phalanx (⅓ more commonly, cut
perpendicular to long axis of bone), and cheilectomy with capsular tissue sewn
into 1st MPJ space
Kessel-Bonney
Indication: Hallux limitus
Procedure: Removal of a pie-shaped dorsiflexory wedge of bone from proximal phalanx
Lambrinudi
Indication: Hallux limitus
Procedure: Plantarflexory wedge osteotomy of 1st metatarsal base
* Lapidus
Indication: HAV + 1st ray hypermobility
Procedure: Fusion of 1st metatarsal base to medial cuneiform (with the resections of bone
angled to correct the deformity)
Logroscino
Indications: HAV (IMA ≥15° in rectus foot, 13° with adductus) + Abnormal PASA
Procedure:
1. CBWO (or Crescentic) → to correct HAV
2. Reverdin (or Peabody) → to correct cartilage orientation
Loison
Indications: HAV
Procedure: Transverse CBWO
Mau
Note: Opposite orientation to Ludloff
Indication: HAV
Procedure: Oblique bone cut diagonally (dorsal-dist to plantar-prox) through the 1st
metatarsal. Rotational osteotomy.
* McBride
Indication: Mild HAV (does not truly correct the HAV deformity)
Procedure: Silver plus soft tissue, capsular releases/tightening
Mitchell
Indication: HAV
Procedure: Distal metaphyseal osteotomy with rectangular block of bone removed and
preservation of lateral cortical ―spur‖ (width of spur varied depending on amount
of correction needed) that hangs over shaft when transposed.
Peabody
Indication: Abnormal PASA
Procedure: Reverdin done in the 1st metatarsal neck
* Reverdin
Indications: Mild HAV + Abnormal PASA
Procedure: Medially based wedge (proximal cut perpendicular to long axis 1st metatarsal and
distal cut parallel to articular cartilage surface) resection in 1st metatarsal head
* Reverdin-Laird
Indications: Moderate HAV + Abnormal PASA
Procedure: Reverdin-Green with lateral shift of capital fragment to correct IMA
Reverdin-Green-Laird-Todd
Indication: Hallux limitus + HAV
Allows for correction in 3 planes
Procedure: Triangle-shaped wedge removed from both the top and side of the distal 1st
metatarsal
* Scarf
Indication: HAV (IMA 12°-18°)
Procedure: Z-type osteotomy through the shaft of the 1st metatarsal
Silver
Indications: Medial 1st MPJ pain
Mild HAV (but does not correct the true HAV deformity)
Procedure: Isolated resection of medial eminence of 1st metatarsal head
Stamm
Indication: HAV
Procedure: OBWO in medial cuneiform (wedge of graft inserted into medial cuneiform)
Valenti
Indication: Hallux limitus
Procedure: Removal of angled (usually 45°) dorsal wedges from the 1st metatarsal and
proximal phalanx to increase ROM
Watermann
Indication: Hallux limitus
Procedure: Removal of closing wedge of bone from 1st metatarsal head to DF capital
fragment
Watermann-Green
Indications: Hallux limitus
Procedure: Watermann osteotomy but with a plantar shelf to preserve sesamoid articulation
* Youngswick
Indications: HAV + DF 1st metatarsal
HAV + Hallux limitus
Procedure: Austin but with an extra slice taken out on the dorsal arm to allow the head to
drop plantarly and decompress the 1st MPJ
Gerbert
Indication: Tailor’s bunion
Procedure: Wedge osteotomy (transverse or oblique) at 5th metatarsal base. K-wire or screw
fixation.
Mercado
Indication: Tailor’s bunion
Procedure: Oblique wedge osteotomy at 5th metatarsal neck
Reverse Hohmann
Indication: Tailor’s bunion
Procedure: Transverse osteotomy in distal metaphysis of 5th metatarsal with medial
transposition of capital fragment. Fixation not usually used.
Reverse Wilson
Indication: Tailor’s bunion
Procedure: Osteotomy from dist-lat to prox-med to shorten the 5th metatarsal and medial
transposition of metatarsal head. Fixation not usually used.
Yancey
Indication: Tailor’s bunion
Procedure: Oblique or transverse (most stable) wedge osteotomy at 5th metatarsal prox mid-
diaphyseal area. Fixation used.
Brown
Indications: Met adductus + Ages 2-6 years old
Procedure:
1. Transfer TP into navicular
2. Medial capsulotomy of nav-cun joint
Chondrotomy by Johnson
Indications: Met adductus + Ages 6-8 years old
Procedure:
1. Resect 2.5 mm lateral based wedges (apex medial) of cartilage in metatarsals 2-5, enlarge
bases medially
2. Lateral base wedge osteotomy distal to epiphysis of 1st metatarsal
3. Lengthen ABductor hallucis
Fowler
See Clubfoot Procedure section
Ghali
Indications: Met adductus + Ages 2-6 years old
Procedure:
1. Heyman, Herndon & Strong procedure
2. PLUS ant-medial release of naviculocuneiform joint
Lange
Indications: Met adductus + Ages 2-6 years old
Procedure: Capsulotomy of 1st metatarsal-cuneiform, followed by serial casting
Lepird
Indications: Met adductus + Age 8 years or older
Procedure:
1. 3 dorsal incisions
2. Transverse plane osteotomies in bases of metatarsals 2-4 from dorsal-dist to plantar-prox,
parallel to WB surface of foot, fixated with compression screws
3. Oblique base wedge osteotomies of 1st and 5th metatarsals, fixed with compression screws
Lichtblau
Note: Same name as procedure for clubfoot
Indications: Met adductus + Ages 2-6 years old
To release abductor hallucis
Procedure: Sectioning of abductor hallucis through a small medial incision
Bauman
Indication: Gastroc equinus
Procedure: Isolated gastroc recession in the deep interval between soleus and gastroc muscles
Hoke
Indication: Achilles tendon lengthening
Procedure:
1. Incision 5 cm in length over medial aspect of tendon
2. Triple hemisection of Achilles tendon
a. Cut Achilles in half in 3 sections: posteriorly in proximal and distal aspects of
incision and anteriorly in central portion of incision
b. Modification – cuts med/lat instead of ant/post, can be percutaneous
3. Forcibly DF the foot to allow for sliding into lengthened position
Lindholm
Indication: Achilles tendon ruptures
Procedure: Two flaps taken proximally from Achilles and reflected distally to fill defect
Lynn
Indication: Achilles tendon ruptures
Procedure: End-to-end reapproximation of ruptured Achilles (may reinforce with plantaris)
Silfverskiöld
Note: Makes a 3 joint muscle into a 2 joint muscle
Indication: Achilles tendon lengthening
Procedure:
1. Release the gastroc heads at their attachments to the femoral condyles (above knee joint)
2. Reinsertion into the posterior proximal tibia area (below knee joint)
Strayer
Indication: Gastroc equinus
Procedure:
1. Distal recession with the complete transverse cutting of gastroc aponeurosis
2. Proximal retracted portion of gastroc is sutured into the deeper soleus
White
Indication: Achilles tendon lengthening
Procedure:
1. Section anterior ⅔ of distal Achilles and medial ⅔ of Achilles (5-7.5 cm proximal to this
point)
2. This lengthens the gastroc in relation to its twisting before its insertion
Chambers
Indication: Flexible pes planus (more often in children, <8 years old)
Rarely performed anymore
Procedure:
1. TAL
2. Bone graft under sinus tarsi (similar to location of arthroereisis to block translocation of
talus on the calcaneus)
Cobb
Note: Good procedure because FDL preserved
Indications: PTTD
Pes valgus
Procedure:
1. Hemi-section of TA (more medial portion released, other half left intact at insertion near
ankle level)
2. Lay released portion of TA along TP tendon and suture together
* Cotton
Indications: Pes planus
PTTD
Medial column repair (to get structural PF of medial column)
Procedure:
1. Medial (and sometimes intermediate cuneiforms) osteotomy dorsal to plantar
(maintaining plantar cortex intact)
2. Triangular shaped bone graft (base measuring 4-7mm) inserted in osteotomy. No
fixation necessary.
* Dwyer
Indication: Pes planus
To produce calcaneal varus
Procedure: Closing wedge osteotomy from medial side (difficult due to possible nerve
entrapment)
Gleich
Indication: Pes valgus foot deformity (especially frontal plane dominant)
Procedure: Oblique calc osteotomy (posterior calc osteotomy) displaced anteriorly (to
―restore the normal angle of the long axis of the calc to the floor‖)
* Kidner
Indications: Pes planus
Kidner foot type (accessory navicular and/or enlarged navicular)
Medial column repair
Procedure:
1. Detach TP from navicular medially
2. Resect accessory navicular and/or bump from navicular
3. Reattach TP to navicular more plantarly (tendon bone anchors commonly used)
Lord
Indication: Pes planus
Procedure: A Gleich (oblique calcaneal osteotomy) displaced anteriorly, medially, and
inferiorly
Lowman
Indications: Pes planus
Medial column repair
Procedure:
1. TAL
2. Talo-navicular wedge arthrodesis
3. Reroute TA under navicular and suture into spring ligament
4. Tenodesis of medial arch by taking slip of TA and reflect downward (leave its insertion
to the calcaneus intact) along medial arch
Selakovich
Indication: Flexible pes planus + Ages 5-9 years old
Congenital vertical talus (flexible/supple deformity) + Ages 5-9 years old
Procedure:
1. Osteotomy and grafting of sustentaculum tali
a. Osteotomy performed midway between interosseous talocalcaneal ligament and
post margin of sustentaculum tali
b. Wedge bone graft inserted to redirect the middle and anterior facets
2. Tightening of medial structures (tightening redundant spring ligament and repositioning
of the TP)
3. Reroute half or all of TA into navicular
* STJ Arthroereisis
Indication: Flexible pes valgus + patient not yet at skeletal maturity (or if arthrodesis not
appropriate in older patient)
Procedure:
1. Incision 2-4 cm long parallel to relaxed skin tension lines over sinus tarsi. Incise deep
fascia to expose lateral talar process, post facet and sinus tarsi floor.
2. Further steps of dissection depend on the specific device you are using
a. MBA (Maxwell-Brancheau Arthroereisis) implant, STA-peg device
Elmslie
Indication: Lateral ankle instability
To reinforce ATFL and CFL
Procedure: Tensor fascia lata routed through calcaneus, then lateral malleolus, then talus,
back through lateral malleolus and back through calcaneus
Evans
Note: Same name as osteotomies indicated for pes planus and clubfoot. Similar to Nilsonne but
with an osseous tunnel instead of subperiosteal tunnel.
Indication: Lateral ankle instability
Reinforces ATFL only (this does not reconstruct ATFL or CFL anatomically)
Hambly
Indication: Lateral ankle instability
Reinforces ATFL and CFL
Procedure:
1. Split PL
2. Reroute into talus (or attached through it), through a lateral malleolus drill hole (anterior
to posterior), through calcaneus and attached to the other half of the PL
Kelikian
Indication: Lateral ankle instability
Reinforces ATFL and CFL
Procedure:
1. Isolate the plantaris tendon
2. Reroute it from the calcaneus into lateral malleolus through a drill hole (posterior to
anterior), back through the calcaneus then sutured on itself
Lee
Indication: Lateral ankle instability
Reinforces ATFL only
Procedure:
1. PB detached proximally
2. Reroute it through lateral malleolus drill hole (post → ant) and sutured upon itself
(peroneal anastomosis)
3. Periosteal flap from dist fibula reinforces new ligament
4. Prox PB attached to PL
Nilsonne
Indication: Lateral ankle instability
Reinforces ATFL only
Procedure:
1. PB detached proximally at musculotendon junction
2. Reroute it through subperiosteal groove through fibula (post-superior → ant-inferior),
CFL primarily repaired if necessary
3. PB secured in subperiosteal tunnel (this approximates ATFL course)
4. Prox PB attached to PL
Seeburger
Indication: Lateral ankle instability
Reinforces ATFL and CFL
Watson-Jones
Indication: Lateral ankle instability
Reinforces ATFL only
Procedure:
1. PB detached proximally
2. Reroute it through lateral malleolus (drill hole posterior to anterior ~2 cm from distal tip
of fibula) into talar neck (vertical drill hole dorsal to plantar), then back through lateral
malleolus (along ATFL course) and sutured on itself posterior to fibula
3. Proximal PB attached to PL
Whinfield
Indication: Lateral ankle instability
Reinforces ATFL and CFL
Procedure:
1. PB detached proximally while maintaining distal attachment
2. The detached portion is rerouted through a lateral malleolus drill hole (anterior to
posterior) and inserted into calcaneus
Clubfoot Procedures
Baja Project
Indication: Clubfoot
Procedure:
1. Cuboid decancellation procedure
2. Laterally based triangular wedge of bone removed from cuboid and lateral cuneiform
* Dwyer
Note: Indicated also for pes planus but wedge done laterally instead of medially (calcaneus goes
into varus)
Indication: Clubfoot
Cavus foot deformity
Procedure: Opening wedge medial calcaneal osteotomy
Calcaneus goes into a more valgus position
* Evans
Note: Same name as procedures indicated for pes planus and lateral ankle instability
Indication: Clubfoot
Procedure: Shorten lateral column by calcaneal-cuboid fusion
Lichtblau
Note: Same name as a procedure for met adductus
Indication: Clubfoot
Procedure: Closing base wedge osteotomy of anterior calcaneus (base of wedge lateral,
shortens lateral column)
Lund
Indication: Clubfoot (neglected or arthrogryphotic neuromuscular type) + Ages 2-5 years old
(ideally, occasionally in adults)
Procedure:
Talectomy (foot posteriorly displaced allowing for correction in sagittal and frontal planes)
Optional – portions of navicular and fibula may need to be resected. Also may use
midfoot wedges adjunctively. Often multistaged.
Fixation with Steinmann pin from calc to tibia for pseudojoint space. Long leg casting for 1
month to BK cast for 4 months.
Miscellaneous Procedures
Hibbs
Indication: To decrease MPJ buckling and increase DF
Procedure:
1. EDL is detached from insertion and reattached to lateral cuneiform or 3rd metatarsal
2. Distal stubs of EDL are attached to EDB at metatarsal head area
* Hoffman
Note: Often done with Keller arthroplasty
Indications: MPJ subluxation secondary to rheumatoid arthritis and fat pad atrophy
Procedure: Resection of metatarsal heads 2-5
Hoffman-Clayton
Indications: MPJ subluxation secondary to rheumatoid arthritis and fat pad atrophy
Procedure: Resection of metatarsal heads 2-5 and bases of proximal phalanxes
Murphy
Indication: Spastic equinus
Procedure: Anterior transfer of TA into calcaneus
Modification – route under FHL
Stoffel
Indication: Correction of spastic muscular forms of ankle equinus
Procedure: Selective denervation of tibial nerve
I have included my notes here as a quick outline reference. As always, it is up to the reader to go
to the original sources to learn the material.
--Brett
We also used McGlamry and Coughlin & Mann to prepare for cases. We have included a few
additional notes that we found helpful.
Procedure
o Patient set-up
Prone
General or spinal
Thigh tourniquet
1. Incision: medial aspect of the Achilles tendon from just above the myotendinous
junction to insertion on calcaneus. Incision is down to paratenon.
a. Use very careful dissection as this area is very avascular
b. Watch out for:
i. Plantaris medially
ii. Sural nerve perforates the Achilles tendon centrally at the myotendinous
junction and then courses laterally
iii. Lesser saphenous vein may also run with the sural nerve
2. Incise the paratenon. The paratenon should be opened as part of the full thickness
flap. Get good exposure to the tendon.
For End-to-end or mid-tendon ruptures
3. Irrigate, debride the mop-top ends of tendon
4. Reapproximate using Bunnel, Kessler or Krackow type of suture using 3-0 or 2-0
Ethibond or other non-absorbable polyester suture
5. Reinforce site with 1-0 or 2-0 Vicryl in a circumferential stitch. Irrigate again.
6. Close paratenon with 3-0 Vicryl, subcutaneous, then skin
Post-op
o Jones compression dressing for 7-10 days
o NWB BK cast for 2-3 weeks
Cast in 20° PF for avulsion and mid-tendon ruptures
Cast in neutral for myotendinous ruptures
o After the PF cast, cast in neutral position (have the patient rest foot on a footrest for 15-
20 min to gently allow the foot to go to neutral or close). WB BK cast for 2-4 weeks or
CAM boot (removable walking cast) here instead. Pt may also start passive ROM.
o After casts, return to regular shoes with a 1‖ heel lift
o Aggressive walking may begin around 10 weeks post-op
o Return to sports at 14-16 weeks post-op
o Note: Pt may not be able to get full DF of foot for 3-6 months
Procedure
o Patient set-up
Prone
General or spinal
Thigh tourniquet
o For mid-tendon tear
1. Posterior medial incision over Achilles from just above myotendinous junction to
past calcaneal insertion. Make full thickness incision to paratenon.
2. Incise paratenon, reflect with full thickness flap
3. Irrigate, clean up mop-handle like edges
o If >3 cm tear
4. Kessel, Bunnel or Krackow type suture with 3-0 Ethibond
5. Reinforce ends circumferentially with 2-0 or 3-0 Vicryl
o If gap is approx 3 cm → inverted V-Y advancement is done
4. Inverted V-Y – leaving underlying muscle attached to the paratenon
5. Advance the distal flap distally
6. Close the defect via Kessel, Bunnel, or Krackow with 3-0 Ethibond
7. Reinforce ends circumferentially with 2-0 or 3-0 Vicryl
o If gap is much greater than 3 cm → V-Y advancement, close end-to-end, reinforce
with FHL
Inverted V-Y will have to be done at an acute angle and will make the tendon
very thin…which is why you have to reinforce with FHL
FHL Transfer
1. Incision is on medial border of midfoot, from the navicular to head of 1st
metatarsal, just above the level of the abductor muscle (approximately
where plantar skin meets regular skin)
Post-op
o Jones compression dressing and plaster splints with foot in 15° PF until first post-op
visit (7-10 days)
o BK cast with foot in 15° PF for 4 weeks
o Cast foot in neutral with BK walking cast or removable cast boot for 4 weeks
Put foot on footrest with hip flexed. Allow foot to passively go to neutral.
o At 8 weeks post-op, begin strength training and ROM exercises
o Patient remains in removable cast boot until the 10° of DF and 4/5 PF strength is
achieved
o Half-inch heel lift is added to their shoe. Home exercises are performed at this period.
o Athletic activity restricted for 6 months
Post-op
o 3-6 weeks NWB in cast (if necessary)
o 3-6 weeks in a WB boot
Procedure
1. Incision 5 cm slightly medial to midline of Achilles tendon
2. Dissect down to deep fascia and paratenon. Incise and tag the paratenon. Do not
dissect in layers because this will lead to soft tissue necrosis.
3. Detach TAL from its insertion to the calcaneus
a. If child, careful not to disturb the calcaneal apophysitis
4. Reroute the TAL under the FHL (if desired)
5. Divide the fat over the calcaneus, then resect a 0.5 cm wedge of bone from calcaneus
just posterior to posterior facet
6. From that wedge, make 2 drill holes, one exiting medially, one exiting laterally
7. Use a Bunnell technique to the distal end of the TAL with either an absorbable (1-0
Vicryl) or non-absorbable (1-0 Ethibond) suture
8. Bring one of the loose end strands through the medial drill hole, and bring the other
strand laterally
9. With the foot in neutral, guide the tendon into the wedge and tie the sutures over the
dorsal surface of the calcaneus, anterior to Achilles tendon
10. Close, cast in AK cast with knee slightly flexed, foot in neutral
Procedure
o Patient set-up
Prone with sandbags
Thigh tourniquet
General or spinal
Lateral approach
1. Incision is curved starting approx 10 cm proximal to fibula to base of 4th metatarsal
a. Avoid sural and intermediate dorsal cutaneous nerves
2. Create skin flaps
3. Strip periosteum from fibula (reflect anteriorly and posteriorly)
4. Incision is carried down to expose posterior facet of STJ and sinus tarsi
5. Use a periosteal elevator to strip the tibia, ankle joint and prox talar neck (med →
lat)
a. Do NOT dissect talar neck except for prox portion. You don’t want to strip off
the blood supply to the talus!
6. Osteotomize the fibula approx 2 cm prox from ankle joint
a. Bevel the cut proximal-lateral to distal-medial so you don’t leave a sharp edge
b. Remove distal portion of the fibula
c. Reflect peroneal tendons posteriorly
7. Make incision through deep fascia at post tibia. With a periosteal elevator, strip the soft
tissues off the tibia.
a. This is visualized after fibula is removed
8. The initial cut in the tibia is with the short wide blade, then complete with the long
wide blade
a. Cut is perpendicular to long axis of bone
b. Remove as little bone as possible
c. Stop cut where the tibia curves for the medial malleolus
Medial approach
1. Incision is 4 cm over the anteromedial aspect of the medial malleolus and directed
slightly inferior so that the medial tip of the medial malleolus can be exposed
2. Strip soft tissue anteriorly
a. Do as little damage to deltoid ligament as possible
3. With a size 10 osteotome, cut along the medial malleolus to finish the initial tibial cut
while freeing up the initial portion
Fixation
1. Temporary fix with 0.062 K-wire
a. Check position relative to patella
b. Place two 3.2 drill bits, one in sinus tarsi and one just above lateral process
c. Check position
2. Insert two 6.5 mm screws from lat-distal → med-prox
a. Note: There are multiple specialty plates available specifically for this procedure
that may change the way you do your fixation
3. Be sure to engage medial cortex of tibia
4. If soft bone, use a washer
a. Check rigidity of arthrodesis site
b. Optional – Can put 3rd screw through medial incision
c. Optional – Fixation of fibula with 4.0/4.5 mm cancellous screw
5. Closure
a. Use a drain
b. Deep closure, etc.
c. Administer marcaine block
d. Compression dressing and splint
Post-op
1. Leave post-op dressing in place for 10-12 days, change and remove stitches
2. Put patient in BK cast, NWB
3. Do not use removable cast because they don’t provide enough support
4. At 6 weeks, X-ray. If healing begins to appear, use BK WB cast.
5. At 12 weeks, if satisfactory healing, can WB
6. Avg fusion time: 14 weeks
7. Avg shortening: 9 mm
Medial approach
1. Incision over the anteromedial aspect of the joint and carry it out distally past the tip of
the medial malleolus for about 2cm to the TN joint
2. Strip the periosteum from the medial malleolus (the portion uncut from the
osteotomy)
3. Remove this portion of the medial malleolus, usually by osteotome
a. Be careful of the neurovascular bundle at the posterior medial portion of tibia
Post-op
o First 48˚ Jones compression dressing with splint
o Then BK cast NWB for 6 weeks (remove stitches at 3 weeks)
o BK WB cast for 4-5 weeks until radiographic evidence of healing
o Eventually rehab with or without PT
Procedure
o Ideal position of foot
5° valgus
TNJ in neutral
Forefoot 0-5° varus
o Patient set-up
General or spinal
Thigh tourniquet
Patient supine
1. Incision just distal to medial malleolus to 1 cm beyond the navicular-cuneiform joint,
curved slightly dorsal (especially if large dorsal osteophyte is present)
2. Strip joint capsule with periosteal elevator or sharp osteotome
3. Remove osteophytes with rongeur or osteotome
4. Identify articular surfaces, remove with curette or osteotome
a. Can use towel clip in medial navicular for exposure
b. Visualization can be improved with lamina spreader if bone is hard
c. Difficult to see laterally, but this must be exposed and debrided
5. Joint surfaces are heavily feathered and foot is manipulated into anatomic alignment
6. Stabilize calcaneus and place STJ in 5° valgus
a. Manipulate midtarsal joint into a few degrees abduction
b. Forefoot into a plantigrade position that is perpendicular to long axis of tibia
c. Forefoot should not have a residual of more than 7-10° varus or valgus
7. Internal fixation—can use two 4.0 or 4.5 mm canulated cancellous screws. For large
person, can use 7.0 mm screw. If bone is soft, can use multiple staples.
8. Hold foot in corrected alignment, drive guide pin into navicular starting at navicular-
cuneiform joint and drill obliquely across navicular into head and neck of talus
9. Check alignment of foot, C-arm
10. Add second guide wire, C-arm
11. Overdrill navicular, insert 40 to 50 mm long threaded cancellous screw. Screw threads
must pass the intended fusion site. If soft bone, use washer. C-arm
12. Check stability of foot
13. If bone is soft or the fusion is not stable, use staples. This is also useful if there is a
fracture of the navicular.
14. Close
15. Marcaine at the end
Complications
o Non-union—Rate is higher than in CCJ or STJ probably because of inadequate exposure
to joint. Also because navicular is avascular.
o Flatfoot—Results from placing the STJ in too much valgus and forefoot in too much
abduction
Correct with a triple arthrodesis
Procedure
o Patient set-up
General or spinal
Supine
Thigh tourniquet
Bump hip
1. Incision is1 cm posterior to fibula and 2 cm proximal to superior aspect of calcaneous
(behind peroneal tendons and anterior to Achilles tendon). Stay posterior to peroneal
tendons. Ends at junction of plantar and lateral skin at level of peroneal sulcus.
2. Sharp dissection down to bone, careful of peroneal tendons and sural nerve.
3. Bone cut: perpendicular to calcaneous. From the midpoint of tuberosity to 1 cm past
the plantar weight bearing portion of the calcaneous. ***Careful about cutting too far
medial because your nerves and arteries are over there.
a. Score your cut first
b. Get a wider, longer blade than usual.
c. May have to finish with osteotome.
4. Displace tuberosity:
a. If laterally so that midaxis of tibia is slightly medial to the midpoint of the
calcaneus. The lateral wall of calc should be just lateral to the lateral malleolus.
b. If medially, displace approx 1 cm.
c. Can displace with an osteotome or lamina spreader without teeth.
5. If needed, can use a Dwyer wedge for added valgus. A Dwyer wedge is generally 1 cm
laterally.
6. Fixation: angled plate, one (or two) 6.0 or 7.0 partially threaded cannulated screws, or
two 4.0 partially threaded screws.
a. For the screws: insert just off the heel pad posteriorly (about 1.5 cm above
plantar surface). If sliding medially, insert screw just laterally. If sliding laterally,
insert just medially.
b. C-Arm for position.
7. Marcaine post-op block
8. Close.
Post-op
o Posterior splint in OR, compression dressing
o Cast application after 1st visit for 5 weeks.
o Removable cast: ROM exercises until osteotomy site is healed.
Procedure
o Patient set-up
General or spinal
Supine
Thigh tourniquet
1. Get bone graft in saline and starting to reconstitute.
2. Incision is oblique over distal half of calcaneous (cut will be 1-1.5 cm from CCJ)
3. Dissect to bone. Careful of Intermediate Dorsal Cutaneous Nerve (Dorsal) Sural N
and Peroneal Tendons (Plantar)
4. Expose to osteotomy site 1-1.5 cm from CCJ
5. Free up EDB
6. Pass a probe thru the anterior and middle facets.
7. Make cut with sagital saw parallel to CCJ, aimed slightly distal to emerge in between
the anterior and middle facets. Don’t go too far medially or you may damage vital
soft tissues medially. Can use osteotome to finish the medial cut
8. Lamina spreader is put in place of the osteotomy site.
9. The osteotomy site is opened by loading the fifth met and putting foot in adduction.
Load until the hind foot valgus is corrected as well as the forefoot varus.
10. Insert bone graft. Bone graft is probably going to be twice as wide on the outside as
the medial side. Most likely the graft will be about 1cm in width at the widest side
(maximum). Don’t forget to keep the cortical sides with the other cortical sides.
11. Can fixate with staple, or screw. Screw is placed distal dorsal to proximal plantar.
a. Very often no fixation is used.
Post-op
o NWB BK cast. For adults 6-8 weeks, for adolescents 5-6 weeks.
Procedure
o Pt supine
o Sandbag under hip or lateral decubitous.
o General or spinal
o Thigh tourniquet
1. Incision-curvilinear, approx 5-7 cm behind the fibula, inline with the peroneal tendons.
Half of incision above malleolus, half below.
2. Full thickness flaps, identify superior peroneal retinaculum
3. Inspect peroneal tendons for subluxations, partial or complete tears and tenosynovitis
4. Retract PL anteriorly to visualize PB and often reveals a central split and subluxation
over posterior ridge of fibula
a. If PB tear is found and degenerative tissue is <50% of tendondebride
degenerative tissue. Then tubularize the remaining tissue using a running,
absorbable suture.
b. If peroneus tertius or low-lying muscle belly is presentexcise it.
c. If lateral ligament instabilityuse Brostrom or Chrisman-Snook
d. If PB tear is >50% then resect the whole tendon (not sure about this personally)
and attach to PL.
5. Inspect floor of peroneal groove. If too shallow make larger groove (pg 303)
6. Use rongeur to prepare fresh-bleeding fibular bed, then reattach the superior peroneal
retinaculum through drill holes in lateral ridge. Go from deep thru holes to dorsal.
Suture the rest of superior peroneal retinaculum with pants over vest style.
Post-op
o NWB splint for 1 week
o BK walking cast for 4-6 weeks
Procedure
o Almost always done with an osseous procedure
1. Incision is 10 cm proximal to tip of tibial malleolus and 1 cm posterior down behind the
medial malleolus to the navicular tuberosity’s plantar portion. (Follows the TP tendon)
2. At the upper end of the incision, the deep fascia is incised and the TP is exposed.
a. The TP lies very close to the posterior margin. Trace the tendon distally to its
insertion while leaving a 2 cm pulley just posterior to medial malleolus at the
level of the tibial plafond.
3. Determine the length of the TP tendon.
a. If TP is normal length, it’s stage Ithen do tendon debridement,
tenosynovectomy and sheath resections are done and close wound
b. If tendon is elongated, it’s stage II and FDL transfer is needed.
4. For debridement of tendon:
a. If fraying—smooth edges leaving major portion of tendon intact
b. If bulbous enlargement just tip of medial malleolus-an ellipse is removed from
bulb and tendon is sutured burying the knot
c. If longitudinal split exists-clear inner side of tendon of scars and approximate
scars
2. Tenosynovectomy—the outer portion of the tendon sheath distal to the pulley is
removed to prevent a possible reformation of stenotic tendon sheath
3. Inspect tendon for area of tear. Proximal to the region involved, the tendon will be
dull and white if the tear is old. Sometimes there is a transverse tear.
4. Transfer of the FDL: Detach FDL distal to the crossover area of FDL and FHL. Cut
the FDL under direct vision.
a. Optional: Suturing of distal end of FDL to FHL
5. Tag FDL with strong, non-absorbable suture in zigzag suture
6. Identify tuberosity of navicular and expose the inferior and superior surfaces of the
tuberosity
7. With 0.25 or 0.375 inch drill bit, a drill hole is done from superior to inferior. The drill
hole should come out inferior to the main surface of the PT
8. Leave FDL in its own sheath. Bring FDL into navicular drill hole from inferior to
superior. Pull through as tightly as possible with foot PF and supinated.
Post-op
o Without FDL transfer
Jones compression cast with foot in PF and inversion for 1-2 days
BK WB cast for 3 weeks
Post op shoe and gradually move into shoe. May take months
o With FDL transfer
Jones compression cast with foot in PF and inversion for 1-2 days
NWB BK with foot in adduction and inversion for 3 wks.
Remove sutures, NWB BK with foot in neutral for 3 more weeks
Progress to WB as tolerated, PT
TATT
Procedure
o Patient set-up same
o Note: Usually with TATT, the 3rd incision is over the lateral cuneif-3rd metatarsal and
the TA is transferred to this bone. However, it is possible to transfer the TA all the way
to the peroneus tertius sheath.
1. Three incisions
a. One over TA insertion of medial cuneiform-1st metatarsal
b. One over anterior surface of leg just proximal to transverse cruciate ligament.
c. One over lateral cuneiform
2. Tendon is separated from its insertion
3. Tendon is drawn up through insertion onto leg incision
4. With a tendon passer, bring tendon up through peroneus tertius sheath (same as the
EDL tendon sheath)
a. Be sure to be under extensor retinaculum
5. Insert TA into lateral cuneiform via hole and button
-Brett
o Procedure
1. Incision is made slightly anterior to midline of fibula
a. Incision is down to bone without too much layered dissection
2. Irrigate and clean up wound edges
3. Restore fibular length
a. Hold with reduction clamps
b. Check with C-arm
4. Insert two 3.5 screws (or 2.7 if small pt) from ant → post using AO lag
techniques
a. C-arm to confirm position
5. Close
o Procedure
Patient set-up
Supine with lateral bean bag/bump
Thigh tourniquet
General or spinal
1. Incision is made along the most posterior border of the fibula at fracture level
a. The plate often lies slightly posterolaterally (rather than directly post), thus
the incision will be away from the plate
b. Incision is carried down to peroneals, but does not violate the peroneal
sheath
c. Incision proceeds over the lateral edge of peroneals which are usually
retracted posteriorly
2. Some of proximal retinaculum may need to be released to expose distal fibula
a. Clear periosteum off fibula
3. Fracture reduction – Ideally, anatomic reduction should be achieved prior to
plate application
a. Reduction can be held with a single K-wire or lag screw
b. Apply lag screw from ant → post so not interfere with plate application
4. Plate application – ⅓ tubular plate is applied to posterior surface of the fibula
a. 4-hole plate – Classically
b. 6-hole plate – More recently
c. Because posterior surface of fibula is straight, contouring of the plate is
usually not necessary
d. Due to the lateral bow of fibula, the plate sits best posterolaterally
5. Proximal screw insertion
a. 1st 3.5 mm cortical screw is placed proximally, through the plate, 2 mm
above posterior fracture line
b. Plate helps prevent proximal gliding of the distal fragment
c. If anatomic reduction is achieved, the proximal screw can be tightened
down
Procedure
o Patient set-up
Use a posterior lateral approach (similar to the one used for a fibular antiglide
plate)
Lateral or prone
General or spinal
Thigh tourniquet
1. Incision is at posterior border of fibula, if fibula needs to be reduced, do that first
a. Hold with temporary fixation
b. Brett Chicko Note: According to Coughlin – Do the definitive fixation of fibula
after the post malleolus because of lack of exposure after fibula is fixated.
However, I have seen the fibula fixated first and then the post malleolus was
addressed.
2. Bluntly dissect between the PB/PL and the FHL (muscular at this level) to the
posterior surface of the tibia. Must get exposure of entire fracture fragment.
3. Reduce fracture
a. The fracture reduction is determined by palpation and visualization of extra-
articular fracture line and C-arm. Cannot directly visualize the intra-articular joint
because talus is in the way.
b. Note: Reduction of fibular fracture most likely will reduce the posterior malleolus
because of firm attachment of post tibiofibular ligament. Ligamentotaxis!
c. If difficulty reducing fracture, DF foot may give slack to ligaments and posterior
capsule
4. Hold reduction with large reduction clamp
5. Insert 2 K-wires to the fragment in place (for 4.0 mm partially threaded cancellous lag
cannulated screws)
6. Insert screws post → ant
a. Insert at right angles to the fracture
7. Alternate fixation: Stab incision anteriorly, insert 4.0mm cortical screw ant → post
a. Check C-arm for position
8. Let the 1st year close
Post-op
o NWB until union is solid. This may take up until 3-4 months.
Procedure
o Patient set-up
Prone with hip bump
General or spinal
Thigh tourniquet
1. Stabilize the fibular fracture before the syndesmosis
a. Use a plate on the fibula
b. Fibula should be reduced posteriorly into the tibial sulcus
c. The syndesmosis should be reduced before the screw(s) are inserted
2. Dorsiflex foot 5°
3. Stab incision on fibula
a. Use C-arm to find correct level: 1cm proximal to syndesmosis and/or 4 cm prox
to ankle joint
4. Insertion of screw (4.5 mm cortical fully-threaded)
a. Because fibula is posterior to tibia, aim screw through posterior-lateral fibula
to anterior-medial tibia at an angle of 25-30° anteriorly
b. Perpendicular to long axis of bones, parallel to the ankle joint
c. Engage 3 cortices or 4 (depending on doctor preference)
d. Do not lag! Do not over-tighten!
Procedure
o Patient set-up
Lateral decubitus position
General or spinal
Thigh tourniquet
o General order of reduction
Anterior process
Medial wall
Posterior facet
Lateral wall
1. Incision is curved behind the lateral malleolus. The proximal portion is halfway
between the anterior portion of the Achilles and the peroneal tendons. The line
progresses distally, around the lateral malleolus, and then runs parallel to the bottom of
the foot, ending up roughly at the C-C joint.
a. Watch out for sural nerve and peroneal tendons
2. Sharply dissect down to bone, create a flap with the CFL and the peroneals and flap that
anterior-superiorly
3. Insert two 0.062 K-wires into the talus and bend K-wires upward to hold this flap up
4. Expose STJ, remove hematoma and small fracture fragments via irrigation and rongeur
5. Identify the fracture lines in the anterior calcaneus that extend medially
a. Determine if the fracture line progresses to the C-C joint
6. The anterior process is typically elevated. Therefore, the anterior process needs to be
retracted plantarly. Use a retractor or lamina spreader between the talus and the
anterior process. Fix with K-wire.
7. Identify the fracture line progressing from ant-lat → post-med (the primary fracture
lines), separating the posterior facets from the anterior and middle facets
Post-op
o Course depends on the amount of damage
o If minimal displacement, 6-8 weeks ROM exercises and NWB
o If severe displacement, >12 weeks ROM exercises and NWB
Complications
o Relatively common
o Infection
o Delayed wound healing
o Sural nerve
o Tibial nerve problems (more likely from injury rather than surgery)
Talar neck fracture is displaced (as in Hawkin’s Type III – STJ and Ankle joint)
o Procedure
1. Anterior-medial incision – extend the incision over the medial malleolus and the
distal aspect of the tibia
2. Go into the space between tibia and Achilles. The body of the talus will be
visualized.
3. A femoral distractor may be needed. Put pins in the tibia and calcaneus.
4. Manually place the body of the talus back into mortise
a. If the talus will not return to the mortise, a medial malleolar osteotomy
will have to be done
i. For medial malleolar osteotomy
1. Identify the ankle joint for tibia
2. Make 2 retrograde 2.5 mm drill holes in the medial malleolus
across the osteotomy site
3. Release the anterior portion of the capsule off the deltoid
ligament as well as a portion of the TP sheath. Protect the TP
tendon.
4. Incise the periosteum about 5-10 mm superior to the ankle joint
Post-op
o Post-splint or boot
o Do not do ROM exercises until wound healing is done
o NWB for 8-12 weeks until trabeculae cross the fracture
Complications
o AVN
o Arthrofibrosis
o Malunion, nonunion
o Skin necrosis
Procedure
o Staged surgery—First part immediate once the patient has stabilized (usually 12-18
hours) with ORIF of fibula and external fixator for tibia. Kitaoka recommends EBI or
Orthofix
o 1st Stage
1. Fibular incision-slightly posterior-laterally to increase the width of the skin bridge
with the later anterior incisions.
2. Do not do calcaneal skeletal traction- (even with a Bohler-Braun frame) this
pulls patient out of bed and displaces foot posteriorly
3. Fix Fibula fracture
4. Apply Ex-Fix onto tibia
5. When the soft tissue edema has subsided (usually 10-21 days), ORIF can be
performed
o 2nd Stage
Patient set-up
Pt supine
General or spinal
Thigh tourniquet
Take frame off tibia but don’t remove the pins. Have circulator sterilize the frame.
This may be used later in the case for distraction.
Anterior-medial incision
1. Locate the fracture fragment. If the fragment is anterior-medial: incision
begins just lateral to the medial crest of tibial shaft. Extend the incision
distally across the ankle joint, staying just medial to tibialis anterior
2. Identify the anterior tibia tendon sheath. Once identified, create a full
thickness flap by incision the tendon sheath and the extensor retinaculum.
Bring this incision down to bone/joint down to the periosteum. Do not strip
the periosteum or remove any fat unnecessarily
3. Identify fracture ends, debride and irrigate. Remove all clots
4. Reduce the fracture. This incision works well with a medial pilon plate
Post-op
o Jones compression dressing and splint
o At 1 week change to compression stocking and removable boot and start ROM.
o Pt is to wear the boot at all times, even sleeping or the patient may develop equinus
deformity
o Start formal PT about 4-6 weeks, only after the wounds have healed
o WB at 3 months if radiographic evidence of healing
o Outcome is based on the fracture at presentation
Procedure
Insertion of scope
1. Mark anatomic landmarks (medial and lateral malleolus, superficial peroneal nerve, TA
and peroneus tertius, if this is not present use EDL)
2. Use 2.7 or 4.5 scope
For Anterior-medial and Anterior-lateral ports
3. Find the ankle joint, insert 18-gauge needle into joint. Fill the joint with 20 cc of NSS
or Lactated Ringers
4. Incise the skin only, use blunt dissection down to the capsule
5. Insert cannula and blunt obturator. Insert scope.
6. With direct vision of scope, insert 18-gauge needle into lateral port, find the needle
with the scope (―Triangulate‖ your position!). Be careful of the superficial peroneal
nerve.
7. Incise the skin over the 2nd port hole, blunt dissect and use obturator to complete the
port
For Posterior-lateral port
8. Go lateral to Achilles tendon approx 1-2 cm distal to anterior port levels (this will be
just distal to posterior syndesmotic ligament)
9. Cannula is used for dedicated inflow
Post-op
o WB in cast for 2 weeks, gradual return to shoe gear.
Procedure
1. Dissect down and expose 1st metatarsal head (similar to an exposure for a bunion)
2. Use Drill Guide to locate the axis normal to the articular surface and central to the
defect
a. Be sure to choose a Drill Guide where the diameter circumscribes the defect
3. Confirm Articular Component diameter by matching it to the Drill Guide
4. Place Guide Pin through the Drill Guide into bone
a. Make sure its central to defect
b. It is very important to verify that Drill Guide is seated on the curved articular
surface such that four points of contact are established. A normal axis and
correct Articular Component diameter are necessary for proper implant fit.
5. Place Cannulated Drill over Guide Pin and Drill until the proximal shoulder of drill is
flush to the articular surface
6. Tap hole to etched depth mark on tap
a. Optional – insert bone cement into pilot hole
7. Place Driver onto the Taper Post over the guide pin and advance until the line on the
Driver is flush with the height of the original articular cartilage level
a. Optional – advance the Driver further to decompress the joint
8. Remove guide pin
9. Clean taper in Taper Post with Taper Cleaner
Procedure
o Patient set-up
Supine with bump (to internally rotate leg)
Thigh tourniquet
General or spinal
Optional – Bump under foot
2. Incision curvilinear over anterior border of fibula, stop at peroneal tendons
a. Be careful of sural nerve, intermediate dorsal cutaneous nerve, peroneal tendons
b. You will may have to ligate lesser saphenous branch of nerve
3. Dissect down to capsule, incise it from 2-3 mm from border of fibula
a. Leave a cuff for later attachment
4. Find CFL by reflecting peroneals and incise it
5. Put foot in neutral DF and slight eversion
6. Resect necessary capsule, reapproximate using 0 or 2-0 absorbable (or non-absorbable)
suture starting with the CFL then ATFL (extend incision if necessary)
7. Test for full range of DF and PF (gently)
8. Identify extensor retinaculum (should be distal), its fibers run perpendicular to ATFL and
CFL (extend incision if necessary)
9. Mobilize extensor retinaculum. Pull it over the repaired capsule and attach to the tip of
the fibula using 2-0 absorbable suture.
10. Check again for ROM and stability
11. Close
Post-op
o Posterior splint 3-5 days
o BK walking cast for 3-4 weeks
o Air-type stirrup for an additional month with ROM exercises
Procedure
o Patient set-up
Supine
Thigh tourniquet
General or spinal
1. Get scope portals
2. Use 2.7 mm scope, both 30˚ and 70˚. Examine the joint.
3. With a probe, evaluate the articular cartilage. Look for any loose bone fragments
beneath articular surface and the extent of the lesion over the talar dome.
4. Type of surgery is dependent on type of osteochondral defect
a. Acute fracture is usually ant-lat, more substantial bone base and better for
internal fixation
b. Chronic post-med lesion is more likely to have fragmented necrotic bone and
poor articular cartilage. These lesions must be removed.
c. In young patients without skeletal maturity, simple drilling may be enough if
articular cartilage remains intact
5. For drilling, use 0.062 K-wire to depth of 1-1.5 cm
For post-med lesion
o Old method was to use trans-tibial approach.
o New method is to use a guide and go through sinus tarsi into post-med portion
For articular cartilage that is fragmented, loose and necrotic
1. For post-med lesions, use post-lat port for 70˚ scope
2. Use probe to lift cartilage
3. Remove cartilage with forceps
4. Use angled cervical curette to debride lesion to healthy, bleeding bone
a. Stopping the inflow will demonstrate bleeding
5. If good bleeding, just remove all remaining bone fragments
6. If not good bleeding, drill as previously described
For bone grafting
o If cartilage is good and intact, but either there is a viable bone fragment or there is
only edema of the underlying cancellous bone
o Insert in the trans-talar approach (like drilling through subtalar)
o OATS Procedure
For post-med lesion
Take a plug of bone with articular cartilage from knee and through a
trans-tibial approach, insert into the talus
Procedure
o Patient set-up
General or spinal usually
Thigh tourniquet, deflate before closure.
Don’t esmarch the foot, just elevate it.
1. Incision 10 cm proximal to the tip of the medial malleolus and 2 cm posterior to the
tibia. After the medial malleolus, gently curve plantar to the level of the talonavicular
joint (plantar to TNJ). This should be about the midpoint of the abductor hallucis
a. McGlamry—2cm proximal to superior edge of lacinate ligament and gently
curving to the proximal margin of the abductor hallucis.
2. With hemostats, blunt dissect the SubQ. A moistened 4x4 can be used. When in the
SubQ, be careful of the medial branch of the nerve as it punctures the lacinate ligament.
3. When at the lacinate ligament, feel for the pulse of the PT artery. Also palpate for the
tendons of the PT and FDL. The FHL (4th compartment) can be palpated by moving the
big toe.
4. From proximal to distal, make incision of the roof of the third canal. May want to use
hemostats and split them, or may use groove channeler/director.
5. Isolate the Tibial Nerve and all 3 branches (medial and lateral plantar nerve, and the
calcaneal branch) of its branches from all tissues.
6. Remove any neoplasm. Be careful!
7. Move varicose veins. Ligate veins if necessary, but make sure that you aren’t ligating
an artery.
8. Follow nerve distally through the abductor canal. Section the abductor canal stricture.
9. Go proximal and follow nerve upwards.
10. Deflate tourniquet.
11. Closure—but don’t reapproximate the lacinate ligament (McGlamry says only partially
reapproximated) and the subQ and skin are closed. If a lot of ooze, then use a drain.
12. Marcaine at the end
Post-op
o Below the knee compression dressing is applied.
o NWB or partial WB for two weeks.
o Begin DF and PF of ankle after 2 weeks.
What is anaphylaxis?
Rapid, generalized immunologically-mediated event that occurs after exposure to foreign antigen
substances in previously sensitized persons. This syndrome can affect any organ in the body, but
it most commonly affects the pulmonary, circulatory, cutaneous, neurologic, and GI systems.
-Brett Chicko
The amount of Social vs. Academic Interviewing will vary from program to program. Some will
only ask social questions (but pimp you when you rotate with them) and some may ask only one
social question and a battery of academic questions. Review this section so you have some
baseline answers for common social questions and review the rest of the book for common
academic questions. Overall: be yourself and relax!
Hint #5 – Be enthusiastic
Don’t be one of those people that walk around looking like they have a hangover or just
took a sleeping pill.
Get a good night’s rest so your tiredness from studying/drinking doesn’t overcome your
alertness and enthusiasm.
But don’t be a cheeseball or act unnaturally.
Tell us a joke
Keep it clean!
Brett’s joke:
o Sherlock Holmes & Doc Watson were camping. They went to sleep and were
sleeping soundly until Sherlock woke up Watson. Sherlock said ―Watson, look
up. What do you see?‖
Watson looked up at the sky and saw millions and millions of stars and the moon.
Realizing that The Sherlock Holmes asked him the question, Watson wanted to
give an impressive answer.
―From an astronomical point of view, I see the Milky Way and many different
constellations to the North.
―From a holographic point of view, I see the clouds are coming from the East and
we may have a chance of rain tomorrow.
―From a theological point of view, it shows how vast and powerful God is and
how insignificant we are when compared to God.
―From an astrological point of view, I see that the moon is in Jupiter and if you
are a Scorpio, you are going to have a good day tomorrow.‖
Sherlock took a drag on his pipe and replied, ―Someone stole our tent.‖
Hubert & Sandi say: Good luck remembering a long joke like that, but only tell a joke if
you can tell the whole thing and remember the punch line. Please!
Be prepared to answer a question about one of your lower grades (if you have any)
Especially if you have to re-test or re-take a class to pass.
Who was your favorite resident? Who is your least favorite resident?
Proceed to think of an answer with mucho cuidado (much caution)!
OCPM’s ACFAS
Officers of 2005
1
All pictures came from class notes / handouts.
Most of the pictures were referenced from Dr. Hetherington’s book.
2
Table of Contents:
Topic Page #
Charting
Surgical Consult 6
Pre-Op Note 6
Post-Op Order 6
Admission Order & Note 6
Post-Op Note 7
Post-Op Visit 7
Layers of the Foot 8
Key Lab Values 8
Hospitalization Indications 9
Post-Op Fever Etiologies 9
Sutures
Types 10
Selection 11
Technique 11
Classification Systems
Stewart, Salter-Harris 12
Gustillo-Anderson, WatsonJones, Freiberg 13
Berndt-Hardy, Hawkin 14
Sneppen, Watson & Dobas, Kuwada 15
Rowe, Sander’s 16
Hardcastle, Dias, Danis-Weber 17
Lauge-Hansen 18
MRI 19
Anesthesia
Anesthetics 20
Dosing 20
Onset/Duration 20
Increasing Comfort 21
Ankle Block 21
Hemostasis = Tourniquet Pressures 21
3
Table of Contents (Continued):
Topic Page #
Corticosteroid Injections
Types 22
Side Effects 22
Cocktails 22
Radiographic Data 23
Joint Deformities 24
Osteotomies
Proximal 25-27
Shaft 29-30
Distal 31-33
Internal Fixation
Principles 34
Rule of 2’s 34
K-Wires 34
Steinmann Pins 34
Monofilament Wire 35
Tension Band Wiring 36
Staples 37
Screws
Anatomy 38-39
Types 40-41
Fixation Technique 42-43
Selection 44
Soft Tissue Anchors 45
Plates 45-46
4
Table of Contents (Continued):
Topic Page #
External Fixation
Principles 47
Complications 48
Types 48-49
Dynamics 50
Care & Management 50
Forefoot Pathologies / Surgical Procedures
Hallux Limitus/Rigidus 51-52
Hammertoes 53-56
Etiologies for Contracted Digits
th
5 Digit Arthroplasty 57
Rearfoot Surgery
Plantar Fasciotomy 58
Haglund’s Deformity 59
Keck & Kelly Osteotomies 59
Tendon Transfers & Indications
Adductor Hallucis 60
Abductor Hallucis 60
Extensor Hallucis Longus 60
Jones Suspension 60
Hibbs 60
Tibialis Anterior 61
STATT 61
Cobb 61
Tibialis Posterior 62
Peroneus Longus 62
Bunions based on Angles 63
Other things to know… 67
5
CHARTING
SURGICAL CONSULT
1. Chief Complaint 8. Primary Care Dr
2. HPI (NLDOCAT) 9. Hospitalizations
3. Allergies 10. RoS
4. Medications Vitals / Vascular / Neuro / Derm /
5. Social History Musculoskeletal
6. Medications 11. Ancillary (x-rays, labs, ect…)
7. Family History
PRE-OP NOTE
Surgeon Medications
Pre-Op Dx Allergies
Planned Procedure Diagnostic Data – Labs, x-rays, EKG, ect…
Consent Form: Describe Procedure & Care / Complications /
Alleviations / Expected Outcomes / Arrange Pre-Op Testing
“Consent form was reviewed with patient, signed and placed in chart.” “All
risks, possible complication and alternative treatments have been
discussed with the patient in detail. All patients’ questions have been
answered to satisfaction. No guarantees to the outcome have been made.”
6
POST-OP NOTE: SAPPA HEMI FC2P2
Surgeon Hemostasis – type Findings
Assistants Estimated Blood Loss Pathology
Pre-Op Diagnosis Materials – sutures/hardware Prophylaxis
Post-Op Diagnosis Injectables – any post-incision Complications
Procedure Condition
Anesthesia – type /
how much
“Patient tolerated procedure and anesthesia well. Patient transported to
recovery by anesthesia with vitals stable and vascular status intact.”
Also may include.. Pathology – bone, ST; Condition – stable, guarded,
fair, poor; Prophylaxis
7
LAYER OF THE FOOT
1st Layer
1. Abductor Hallucis M.
2. Abductor Digiti Minimi M.
3. Flexor Digitorum Brevis M.
2nd Layer
1. Quadratus Plantae M.
2. Lumbricales M.
rd
3 Layer
1. Flexor Hallucis Brevis M.
2. Flexor Digiti Minimi M.
3. Adductor Hallucis M.
th
4 Layer
1. Dorsal Interossei M. (4)
2. Plantar Interossei M. (3)
WBC HgB
(4500 - Platelets
11,000/L) HCT (150,000-450,000μL)
(M: 43-49%)
(W: 37-43%)
8
INDICATIONS FOR HOSPITALIZATION POST-OP
1. Fever >101.6o
2. Ascending Cellulitis / Suspect Osteomyelitis
3. Lymphangitis / Lymphademopathy
4. Immunosuppressed
5. Virulent / Resistant Organisms
6. Need for I&D Procedure
7. Need for IV Antibiotics
8. Failed response to outpatient therapy
9. Need a consult
1. Wind – Pulmonary
a. Aspiration / Pneumonia
b. Occurs 24-48h
c. Get chest x-ray
2. Water – UTI
a. Occurs in 2-6d
3. Wound
a. Occurs in 3-5d
9
SUTURES
10
SUTURE SELECTION
1. Bone 5. Subcutaneous Fat
a. Stainless Steel a. Vicryl
2. Tendon 6. Subcuticular
a. Prolene a. Monocryl
b. Ethibond b. Vicryl
c. Nylon 7. Capsule
d. Polyesters a. Vicryl
3. Muscle 8. Skin
a. PDS a. Nylon
b. Vicryl b. Silk
c. Prolene
4. Fascia Deep Tissue taper needle; 3-0 suture
a. Prolene Subcutaneous Tissue taper needle; 4-0 suture
b. PDS Dermal Layer precision needle; 5-0 suture
Capsule 2-0 or 30 suture
Subcutaneous 4-0 suture
Subcuticular 5-0 clear suture
Skin 4-0 clear suture
SUTURE TECHNIQUES
1. Simple Interrupted
Good for infected wounds
Individual know for each throw
2. Horizontal Mattress
Everts skin edges well
3. Vertical Mattress
Everts tissue edges well
4. Continuous Running
Good to save time
Good for large wound areas
5. Subcuticular (Running Intradermal)
Leaves the best scar
11
STEWART CLASSIFICATION OF 5TH MET FRACTURES
Type I Supra-articular @ metaphyseal-diaphyseal junction
True Jones!
Type II Intra-articular avulsion, 1 or 2 fracture lines
Type III Extra-articular avulsion, PB tears small fragment from the
styloid process
Type IV Intra-articular, comminuted fracture, assoc. with crush injury
Type V Extra-articular avulsion @ of physis in children (SH Type I)
12
GUSTILLO & ANDERSON OPEN FRACTURE CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM
Type I
Fracture with open wound <1cm in length
Clean, minimal soft tissue necrosis
Usually traverse or short oblong
Type II
Fracture with open wound >1cm in length
Clean, minimal soft tissue necrosis
Usually traverse or short oblon
Type III
Fracture with open wound >5cm in length
Contamination and/or necrosis of skin, muscle, NV, & ST
Comminuted
Type IIIa
Adequate bone coverage
Type IIIb
Extensive soft tissue loss with periosteal stripping and bone
exposure
Type IIIc
Arterial injury needing repair
NAVICULAR FRACTURE – WATSON JONES
Type I Navicular tuberosity fracture
Type II Avulsion fracture of dorsal lip
Type III A: Transverse body fracture – Nondisplaced
B: Transverse body fracture – Displaced
Type IV Stress fracture
FREIBERG CLASSIFICATION – AVN OF 2ND MET
Type I No DJD Articular cartilage intact
Type II Peri-articular spurs Articular cartilage intact
Type III Severe DJD Loss of Articular Cartilage
Type IV Epiphyseal dysplasia; multiple head involvement
13
BERNDT-HARDY CLASSIFICATION OF TALAR DOME LESIONS
Stage I
Compression lesion or non-visible lesion
Stage II
Fragment attached
Stage III
Non-displaced fragment without attachment
Stage IV
Displaced fragment
14
SNEPPEN CLASSIFICATION OF TALAR BODY LESIONS
15
ROWE CLASSIFICATION OF CALCANEAL FRACTURES
Type I A Medial Tuberosity fracture
B Sustentaculum Tali fracture
C Anterior Process fracture
16
LISFRANC’S FRACTURE CLASSIFICATION – HARDCASTLE
Type A: Total or Homolateral
– Disruption of the entire Lisfranc joint
– Transverse or Sagital plane
– Most common type
Type B: Partial
B1 – Medial incongruity with the first met forced medially
– Involves 1st met OR mets 2,3,4 but NOT 5
B2 – Lateral incongruity with lesser mets forced laterally
Type C: Divergent
C1 – Partial divergence with the 1st met medial and 2nd met laterally
displaced
C2 – Total divergence with the 1st met displaced medially and lesser
mets displaced laterally
DIAS CLASSIFICATION OF LATERAL ANKLE LIGAMENT INJURY
Grade I Partial rupture of CFL
Grade II Complete rupture of ATFL
Grade III Complete rupture of ATFL, CFL, &/or PTFL
Grade IV Complete rupture of all 3: ATFL, CFL, & PTFL
+ Partial rupture of the Deltoid Lig
DANIS-WEBER CLASSIFICATION OF FIBULAR FRACTURES
INVOLVED IN ANKLE FRACTURES
17
LAUGE-HANSEN CLASSIFICATION OF ANKLE FRACTURES
18
MRI
19
ANESTHETICS
Esters
Higher incidence of allergies
Metabolized in Blood (Cholinesterase in plasma)
Types
~ Cocaine
~ Procaine
~ Cholorprocaine
~ Tetracaine
Amides
Metabolized by CYP450 system in Liver
Types
~ Lidociane / Xylocaine (0.5, 1, 1.5, or 2% solutions)
~ Bupivicaine / Marcaine (0.25, 0.5, or 0.75% solutions) C/I <12y/o
~ Mepivicaine / Carbocaine (1, 1.5, 2, or 3% solutions)
Dosing:
0.25% solution = 2.5 mg/cc drug 1cc = 1mL
0.5% solution = 5 mg/cc drug
1% solution = 10 mg/cc drug
20
6 Ways to Increase Comfort of the Injection: Draw up with 18G
1. Quick Stick Inject with 25 or 27G
2. Slow Injection
3. Small Gauge Needle (large # = small gauge)
4. Small Syringe (less pressure)
5. Cold Spray
6. Warm the Solution (to body temp)
Saphenous N .5-1cc
Posterior Tibial N 1-3cc give the most here since this N is the largest
Sural N .5-1cc
Deep Peroneal N .5-1cc between 2 Long Extensor Tendons
Superficial N .5-1cc plantarflex & invert
Side Effects:
~ Soft tissue atrophy
~ Tendon rupture
~ Skin discoloration (lightening)
2. Joint Injections
a. 0.2cc Dexamethasone Phosphate
b. 0.5cc 1% Lidocaine
3. Intermetatarsal Neuromas
a. 0.3cc Dexamethasone Phosphate
b. 0.5cc 1% Lidocaine
22
RADIOGRAPHIC DATA
Angle: Normal:
Hallux Abductus Angle 0-15o
Proximal Articular Set Angle (PASA) 0-8o
Distal Articular Set Angle (DASA) 0-7o
Intermetatarsal Angle
1-2 0-8o
2-5 16o + 4o
4-5 8o + 2o
Hallux Interphalangeal Angle (HIA) 0-10o + 2o
Metatarsal Length + 2mm
Metatarsus Adductus 0-8o
Tibial Sesamoid Position Positions 1-3
1 = Medial to midline of hallux
2 = Touching midline medially
3 = 2/3 medial + 1/3 lateral to midline
4 = 1/2 medial + 1/2 lateral to midline
5 = 1/3 medial + 2/3 lateral to midline
6 = touching midline laterally
7 = lateral to midline of hallux
Calcaneal Inclination Angle 18-22o
Talar Declination Angle 21o
TaloCalcaneal Angle (Kite) 17-21o
Böhler’s Angle 25-40o
Angle of Gissane 125-140o
Calcaneal Fracture resulting in
Joint Depression Böhler’s Angle ↓
Angle of Gissane
↑
23
CLASSIFICATION OF JOINT DEFORMITIES
Positional Deformities:
PASA + DASA < HAA
PASA and DASA within normal range (0-8o)
Joint is Subluxed
Structural Deformities:
PASA + DASA = HAA
PASA and DASA abnormal
Joint is Congruous
Combined Deformities:
PASA + DASA < HAA
PASA and DASA abnormal
Joint is Dislocated
24
PROXIMAL OSTEOTOMIES
o
IM between 15-22 , normal PASA
NOT for a short metatarsal
Indications:
Structural Lg IMA
Splayfoot
Juvenile/Recurrent HAV
Met Primus Elevatus
HAV + MetAdductus
C/I in Elderly
25
PROXIMAL OSTEOTOMIES CONTINUED…
IV. Crescentic
1.5cm from met-cuneiform joint
Easy traverse plane correction
Good for short metatarsal
26
PROXIMAL OSTEOTOMIES CONTINUED…
V. Double Osteotomy
IM and PASA correction
VI. Proximal V
Good screw fixation
Unlikely to get elevates
VII. Lapidus
IM > 18o
Fusion of the base of 1st met to the medial
cuneiform
Indications:
Pain with motion at met-cuneiform joint
Hypermobility of 1st met-cuneiform joint
27
28
MIDSHAFT OSTEOTOMIES
** Troughing is unique to midshaft osteotomies
I. Ludloff Osteotomies
IM 1-2 angle: 13-20o
Abnormal HAA
Normal to short 1st metatarsal
Elevatus is a risk
II. Mau
IM 1-2 angle: 13-20o
Abnormal HAA
Normal to short 1st metatarsal
Due to cut, decreases elevates
potential
29
MIDSHAFT OSTEOTOMIES CONTINUED…
30
DISTAL OSTEOTOMIES
HAV angle – 35 o
IM angle -- 16 o
Some PASA correction
I. Reverdin
Some PF possible
II. Hohmann
Very unstable; Rigid Fixation necessary
Shortening occurs with fragment removal
31
DISTAL OSTEOTOMIES CONTINUED…
IV. Wilson
Dramatic shortening possible
32
DISTAL OSTEOTOMIES CONTINUED…
33
INTERNAL FIXATION
Rules of 2’s:
Fracture / Osteotomy site should be 2x’s the diameter of the bone
2 points of fixation is better than 1
2 threads should purchase the distal cortex
2 finger tightness
Steinmann Pins:
Very similar to K-wires
Larger diameter than K-wires
Provide Inc Stability
Measured in 64ths
Sizes: 8/64 (1/8), 7/64, 6/64…
34
INTERNAL FIXATION CONTINUED…
Monofilament Wire:
Malleable Steel
Provide interfragmentary compression
Measured in Gauges (small gauge = large diameter)
Techniques:
Cerclage fashion
circling around a bone
Interfrag fashion
placed in between 2 fragments
always pull on the proximal fragment
most stable
35
INTERNAL FIXATION CONTINUED…
36
INTERNAL FIXATION CONTINUED…
Staples:
Primarily used for fractures, osteotomies & fusions
Inserted manually or with pneumatic gun
Provide compression, distraction or maintain compression
Be careful about thickness of bone – DO NOT use if cortical bone is
greater than 2-3mm, may cause cortical fractures or not seat in bone
properly
Pre-Drills:
Neutralization
37
INTERNAL FIXATION CONTINUED…
Screws:
These features can differ depending on the function of the screw.
Lead Distance that the screw advances with each turn (360o)
38
INTERNAL FIXATION CONTINUED…
Screw Diagram:
39
INTERNAL FIXATION CONTINUED…
Types of Screws:
1. Cortical Screws
Threaded the entire length of the screw
Have smaller pitch for greater number of contacts between the
screw and the dense cortical bone
2. Cancellous Screws
Partially threaded
Larger pitch to provide greater distance of contact between the
screw and the less dense, porous cancellous bone
3. Cannulated Screws
Hollow center down the length of the screw to be used over a guide
wire
Offers easier placement and less complications
May have decreased pullout strength
4. Herbert Screws
Ho head and two set of threads proximally not distally
Proximal threads have greater pitch than the distal threads
Indicated for intra-articular fractures
Compressive strength of Herbert screw are less than conventional
screws
5. Interference Screws
Fully threaded, headless screw
Does not provide interfragmentary compression but resists axial
displacement of one fragment on another
Indicated for stabilization of tendon grafts to bone and tendon
reattachment
40
INTERNAL FIXATION CONTINUED…
6. Absorbable Screws
Available in natural / synthetic polymers
Most common absorbable polymers used are based on alpha-
hydroxy acids such as L-lactic acid, glycolic acid, & para-dioxanone
Need to be able to last 6-8 weeks
41
INTERNAL FIXATION CONTINUED…
Diagram:
A. 2 Screw Technique
B. 1 Screw Technique
42
INTERNAL FIXATION CONTINUED…
43
INTERNAL FIXATION CONTINUED…
44
INTERNAL FIXATION CONTINUED…
Plates:
Various size and shape – allow alignment of the bones and stability
across the fracture / osteotomy site
Stability allows for early passive RoM
Adequate screw fixation is important for the plate to function properly
Plate designs include semitubular, 1/3 tubular, ¼ tubular, T – plate, L
– plate, calcaneal plate…
Types of Plates:
1. Neutralization Plate
a. Prevents torsional / bending forces from acting on the lag
screws
b. The ridge extension of the plate on the bone proximal & distal
to the fracture / osteotomy site helps neutralize any extra forces
along the bone segment
2. Compression Plate
a. Generate compressive forces along the fracture / osteotomy site
by either placing the plate on the tension side of the bone, off-
set drilling (AKA load screw technique) or pre-bending the plate.
45
INTERNAL FIXATION CONTINUED…
Plates Continued…
5. Buttress Plate
a. Anchored to the main stable fragment
b. Supports the load-bearing bone
c. Indicated in impacted fracture that results in comminution (e.g.
tibial plateau and the tibial pilon fractures)
6. Bridge Plate
a. Useful in unstable comminuted fractures by spanning the
length of the comminution
b. Frequently used with bone grafts to fill the voids in the bone
46
EXTERNAL FIXATION
External fixation implements the use of wires, pins, and rods to keep
bone segments in alignment or compression. Furthermore they allow
distraction of bone segments by the principle of tension-stress effect.
Advantages:
Use in open fractures, acute, fractures, infected fractures and non-
unions
Requires minimal tissue dissection
Allows compression, neutralization, or fixed distraction of bone
segments
Length can be maintained in a comminuted fracture
Allows access to the wound site for care, monitoring and dressing
changes
Full weight bearing is allowed immediately post-operatively
Disadvantages:
Requires skin and pin tract care
Difficult frame construction
Bulky frame
Fracture through the bone is possible
Refracture possible after frame removal
Expensive
47
EXTERNAL FIXATION CONTINUED…
Complications:
Pin irritation – avoid pin placement in muscle
Pin tract infection – most common complication (30%)
Neurovasculature Impalement – Anterior Tibial A. & Deep Fibular N.
and they are most commonly involved
Delayed Union / Non-Union – due to faulty frame construction
Compartment Syndrome – due to increase in the intracompartmental
pressures (mmHg)
Refracture – once the frame has been removed due to tension
shielding, a rare complication
1. Unilateral Fixators
Produces compressive or distraction forces
Used to fixate fractures, fuse joints, and lengthen
Available in small or large, it is attached to the bone by multiple
half-pins screwed into the bone and attached to the fixator with the
clamp
Main disadvantage – not create any sagital plane stability &
therefore should not weight bear immediately post-op
48
EXTERNAL FIXATION CONTINUED…
2. Circulator Fixators
Produces compressive and distraction forces
Used to fixate fractures, treat non-unions, limb-lengthening , soft
tissue lengthening, and correction of congenital deformities.
Utilizes trans-osseous wires with half-pins to position the wires in
different plane stability
Limited by the circular frame’s ability to fit the extremity and
patient’s comfort of wearing the apparatus
3. Hybrid Fixators
Combination of unilateral and the circular fixator
Used to treat tibial plafond fractures and pilon fractures
Utilizes trans-osseous wires and half-pins and footplate to allow
early weight bearing
49
EXTERNAL FIXATION CONTINUED…
Dynamization:
After removal of the plate, the bone may be prone to re-fracture during
weight-bearing because of weakening of the bone from disuse
osteopenia. To prevent this complication it is important to gradually
release tension in the trans-osseous wires and loosen the pins to allow the
bone to gradually strengthen as it bears weight.
50
COMMON FOREFOOT PATHOLOGIES AND SURGERIES
Radiographic Appearance
AP Lateral
Focal joint space narrowing Dorsal Flag Sign
Joint mice Spurring
Spurring Sclerosis
Asymmetry Metatarsus Primus Elevatus
Squaring of metatarsal head
Etiologies = TIN-MAC
Trauma
Infection
Neoplasm of bone or soft tissue
-
Metabolic
Anatomic
Structural = short/long 1st ray, Met Primus Elevatus
1. Meary’s Angle deviation (b/s talus should b/s 1st met)
2. Parallelism between 1st & 2nd metatarsals
3. Metatarsal parabola / protrusion deviation
Biomechanical = pronation, hypermobile 1st ray
Congenital
51
COMMON FOREFOOT PATHOLOGIES AND SURGERIES CONTINUED…
52
COMMON FOREFOOT PATHOLOGIES AND SURGERIES CONTINUED…
Hammertoes
Function of Lesser Digits:
Decelerate the foot
Stabilize the forefoot
Aid in propulsion
Provide kinesthetic sensation
Function of Musculature:
EDL / EDB = dorsiflex MPJ – passive flexion at PIPJ / DIPJ
FDL / FDB = actively plantarflex MPJ, PIPJ, DIPJ
Interossei = prevent buckling
Lumbricales = hold digits rectus (plantarflex MPJ, dorsiflex PIPJ /
DIPJ)
Types of Deformities:
MPJ PIPJ DIPJ
Hammertoe Extension Flexion Extension
Claw Toe Extension Flexion Flexion
Mallet Toe Rectus Rectus Flexion
53
COMMON FOREFOOT PATHOLOGIES AND SURGERIES CONTINUED…
Hammertoes
Etiologies Continued:
2. Flexor Substitution (Least Common)
Weakness of Triceps Surae – Flexors gain mechanical advantage
over extensors
Supinated foot type – late stance phase abnormality
Tx = suture FDL to Achilles tendon to strengthen muscles
Must perform Arthrodesis
3. Extensor Substitution
Weak Tibialis Anterior – extensor gains mechanical advantage
over Lumbricales
Begins flexible and becomes rigid reduce early w/ weight
bearing
Pes Cavus / Ankle Equinus / TA weakness / EDL spasticity and
pain are frequent symptoms
Swing phase biomechanical abnormality
Tx = Arthrodesis if Rigid
Hibb’s Tenosuspension if Flexible
54
COMMON FOREFOOT PATHOLOGIES AND SURGERIES CONTINUED…
OSSEOUS
1. Arthroplasty
Post – resection of base of proximal phalanx
Gotch & Kreuz – resect base of proximal phalanx and syndactylize
digits
2. Arthrodesis
Lambrinudi – fusion of PIPJs and DIPJs
Young-Thompson – Peg-in-Hole Fusion (Peg from Prox.Phalanx)
High amount of shortening
3. Taylor – PIPJ fusion using K-Wire
55
COMMON FOREFOOT PATHOLOGIES AND SURGERIES CONTINUED…
Hammertoes
Sequential Reduction:
1. Z-Plasty
2. Arthroplasty
3. Extensor Hood Release
4. MPJ Capsulotomy
5. Volar Plate Release
6. Tendon Transfer (Girdlestone, Kuwanda & Dockery, Hibbs)
Hallux Hammertoe:
Etiology:
Muscle imbalance
Iatrogenic after sesamoid removal or detachment of FHB
IPJ sesamoid binding FHL tendon
Treatment:
Flexible – IPJ fusion with EHL lengthening
Rigid – IPJ fusion with Jones Tendon Transfer
~ Cut EHL distally from insertion
~ Drill hole transversely through 1st med head
~ Insert tendon through drill hole and suture back on itself
56
5TH DIGIT ARTHROPLASTY
1. Lazy “S” Incision
Lateral condylectomy of distal and middle phalanges with resection
of head of proximal phalanx
2. Derotational Arthroplasty
Distal Medial Proximal Lateral Incision
3. Complications
Floppy Digit
Edema (sausage digit)
Floating Toe with Metatarsalgia
Regeneration of Proximal Phalanx
Infection
Decreased sensation
Blue toe
57
REARFOOT SURGERY
Spurs are incidental findings only and are rarely the cause of pain.
1. May be painful if directed plantarly
2. Must be present to be approved for orthotics
Plantar Fasciotomy:
1. Plantar L shaped incision at the medial midfoot
2. Release of the medial band of the plantar fascia
3. NWB for 3 weeks
4. Sutures out after 3 weeks
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REARFOOT SURGERY CONTINUED…
Haglund’s Deformity:
Angles:
Philip-Fowler Angle = normal 44-69o, >75o pathological
Total angle of Ruck = Philip-Fowler + Calcaneal Inclination Angle –
Normal up to 90o, pathological if > 110o
Parallel Pitch Lines – most objective method of determining a
Haglund’s deformity
Procedures:
Longitudinal incision lateral to TA
Dissection down to posterosuperior Calcaneus
Aggressive removal of pathologic bone, but don’t chase the bump
If you need to reflect the TA, reattach with a soft tissue anchor and
remain NWB for 3 weeks
59
TENDON TRANSFERS
Types:
1. Adductor Hallucis
Resect at insertion, pass under the joint capsule and reattach at
medial aspect of the capsule
Indicated in HAV to realign the sesamoid apparatus
2. Abductor Hallucis
Transected at insertion, rerouted inner 1st met head and fixated at
lateral base of proximal hallux
Indicated in Hallux Varus with an osteotomy
3. Extensor Hallux Longus
Transected at origin, rerouted under DTIL, fixated to lateral base
of proximal hallux
IPJ needs fused
Indicated when have sagital component with Hallux Varus
4. Jones Suspension
EHL excised from insertion, drill a hole transversely through 1st
met head, rerouted through hole and sutured on itself
Indicated with cock-up deformity, flexible cavus, lesser
metatarsalgia, chronic ulcers, weak TA, flexible plantarflexion of
1st met
5. Hibb's Tenosuspension
EDL detached from insertion, bundled together and placed
through midfoot at the base of the 3rd met or lateral cuneiform
Indicated to release retrograde buckling at MPJs, met equines,
flexible cavus, claw toes
60
TENDON TRANSFERS CONTINUED…
Types Continued...
6. Tibialis Anterior Transfer
3 incisions at (1) proximal dorsal leg, (2) TA insertion at medial
plantar cuneiform / tubercle 1st met, and (3) the new area of
insertion in the midfoot
Release from insertion, reroute out the proximal incision, with
tendon, with tendon passer brought to new insertion (usually 3rd
cuneiform)
Indicated for recurrent clubfoot, flexible forefoot equines,
dropfoot, tarsometatarsal amputation, Charcot Marie Tooth
deformity
8. Cobb Procedure
STATT but reroute to TA to PA tendon
Indicated for PT dysfunction
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TENDON TRANSFERS CONTINUED…
Types Continued...
9. Tibialis Posterior Tendon Transfer
3 incision (1) insertion of the PT at navicular tuberosity, (2)
anterior leg, middle 1/3 just lateral to tibial crest and (3) one at
new insertion at dorsal midfoot
Tendon released from navicular Tuberosity, dissected free at the
medial leg insertion to expose the IM and the PT pulled through
this opening then brought to new insertion level (usually 3rd
cuneiform)
Indicated for weak anterior muscles, equinovarus, spastic
equinovarus, recurrent clubfoot, dropfoot, complications from
Charcot Marie Tooth, peroneal nerve plaste, leprosy, Duchenne’s
MS
Muscle goes from a stance to a swing muscle during gait
62
TShwer
BUNION PROCEDURES TO KNOW BASED ON ANGLES
Comments:
63
Abnormal IM:12-16o Distal Biplane Austin
PASA + Abn P Osteotomy Reverdin Laird (Distal L) PASA + IM
+ Reverdin Green
IM Angle Biplane Mitchell Roux
Hohmann
Shaft Mau
Osteotomy Ludloff
Scarf / “Z”
Klotzenberg
Juvara
IM: >16o Proximal Lapidus w/ Reverdin
+ Abn P Osteotomy V Osteotomy
Logroscino (Base Wedge Reverdin)
Cresentic
Juavara
Proximal V of Kotzengerb
Comments:
Normal: 0-10o
Comments:
64
Tibial Sesamoid Position 4-7 Fibular Sesamoidectomy
Fibular Sesamoid Release
Normal: 0-3
Comments:
LDA: ↑
Severe Lat
Bowing
Comments:
65
66
Other Important Things
to Know for 3rd Year
Rotations & Externships
Dr. Bodman’s Drugs p. 68
Dr. Caldwell’s Drugs p. 74
Dr. Caldwell’s Wound Care p. 84
Ankle Scopes p. 90
67
68
69
70
71
72
73
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TShwer
β – LACTAMASE’S
SENSITIVE PENICILLIN’S
Penicillin V (PO)
G+: Strep
G–: Eikenella corrodensHuman Bites
Penicillin G, Aqueous (IV)
** Tx: Clostridium Tetani if Nisseria gonorrheaSTD Septic Joint
allergic to Tetanus Toxoid Anaerobes: Clostridium perfringens
Penicillin G, Procaine (IM)
** Tx: Treponema Palidum
(Syphilis) HELPS2:
Tx: Strep Throat & Otitis Media Haemophilus
Ampicillin
G+: Strep E. coli
G–: Eikenella corrodens Listeria
Proteus mirabellus
Amoxicillin Nisseria gonorrhea Shigella
** Used in kids instead
of Augmentin!
HELPS2 Salmonella
Anaerobes:
RESISTANT PENICILLIN’S (3RD GENERATIONS) Resist MONDay’s!
M Methacillin (IV)
** Toxic, not used!
O Oxacillin (Bactocil)(PO)
β–Lactamase Resistant Staph Aureus
N Nafcillin (Unipen)(PO)
D Dicloxacillin (PO)
If resistant to this = MRSA!
DOSAGE BOX:
Zosyn = 3.375g q6h
Augmentin = 875mg q12h
Timentin = 3.1g q6h
Unasyn = 3.0g q6h
76
CEPHALOSPORIN’S
1ST GENERATION
Cephalexin (Keflex)(PO) G+: Good Staph aureus
Staph epidermidis
Cephadroxil (Duricef)(PO) Strep HEN – PEcKS:
Haemophilus influenza
G : Some PEcK
–
Enterobacter aerogens
Cefazolin (Ancef)(Parenteral) An: Some not B.fragilis Neisseria species
< 80% susceptibility to Ancef Proteus mirabilis
E. coli
2ND GENERATION Klebsiella pneumonia
Serratia
Cefuroxime (Ceftin)(PO) G+: Almost as good as 1st G
(Zinacef)(Parenteral) G–: Extended HEN – PEcKS
Cefoxitin (Mefoxin)(Parenteral) An:
3RD GENERATION
Cefixime (Suprax)(PO)
G+: Significantly ↓↓↓
Cefpodime (Vantix) (PO)
G–: Superior Coverage
Ceftriaxone (Rocephin)(Parenteral) (Fortaz Pseudomonas)
*Not good for Staph (Rocephin Neisseria)
Ceftazidime (Fortaz)(Parenteral)
An:
Cefdinir (Omnicef)
*Covers Staph & Strep better than 1st G. MIC levels are superior to Cephalexin
4x’s better for Staph // 7x’s better for Strep
DOSAGE BOX:
4 GENERATION
TH
Omnicef = 300mg q12h
Cefipime (Maxipime)
G+: More active against Staph aureus than 3rd G
G–: Good Coverage
(+ Pseudomonas)
An:
EXTENDED GENERATION
Ceftobiprole G+: – Active against MRSA
G–:
An:
Imipenam–Cilastin (Primaxin)
*ID specialists ONLY! Broad Spectrum
G+: – Most
G–: – Most (pseudomonas – resistant)
(mycoplasma – resistant)
An: – Excellent
Meropenam (Merrem)
*Mostly ID specialists G+: Staph & Strep only (Inferior to Imipenam)
G–: (Superior to Imipenam)
↓ Seizure Risk! An:
Doripenam
Broad Spectrum
G+:
G–: (pseudomonas)
An:
DRUG INTERACTIONS:
C/I in pts with Penicillin allergy
C/I in pts with Seizure History
Ertapenam interacts with Probenicid.
78
MONOBACTAM
AMINOGLYCOSIDES
GLYCOPEPTIDES
1ST GENERATION
Vancomycin (PO/IV) G+: IVMRSA
MACROLIDE’S
* Erythrasma Coral Red Woods Lamp
CHLORAMPHENICOL
SULFONAMIDES
81
5-NITROIMIDAZOLE
FLUORINATED 4-QUINOLONES
Moxifloxacin (Avelox)
Broad Spectrum
* Good in ST
* Good for diabetic foot G+: Staphsome resistance
infections with inoperable Strepenhanced
atherosclerosis G–:
* May work against TB
An: B. fragilis
DRUG-DRUG INTERACTION:
Not give within 2hr of: Multivitamins, Antacids, Sulcralfate
MANY interactions! – Theophyline, Caffeine, Warfarin, NSAIDs, ddI (HIV)
May see… Torsades de Pointes & Ventricular Fibrillation
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RIFAMYCIN
Rifampin
Broad Spectrum DOSAGE BOX:
* Turns fluids Orange
Not given alone Give with Cipro / Bactrim
* CYP 450 system G+: Staph aureus
* Tx Leprosy Strep epidermidis
* Tx Vanco Resistant MRSA
MRSA
G : N. gonorrhea
–
Mycobacterium
An:
STREPTOGRAMINS
Dalfopristin/Quinopristin (Cipro) ADVERSE DRUG REACTIONS:
* Reserve this drug!!! G+: VRE Arthralgia / Myalgia
MRSA Nausea
MRSE Thrombophlebitis
G–: ↑ LFT’s
An: Injection Site Reaction
OXAZOLIDINONES
Linezolid (Zyvox)
* Good bone penetration G+: VRE ADVERSE DRUG REACTIONS:
* Check weekly CBC’s MRSA Mylosuppresion
VRSA N/V lactic acidosis
G–: Optic Neuropathy Tx >1mo
An:
CYCLIC – LIPOPEPTIDE
Daptomycin (Cubicin)
* Check weekly CPK’s G+: MRSA DRUG INTERACTIONS:
VRSA Tobramycin
DOSAGE BOX:
Statins Myopathy
4mg/kg qd G–:
An:
GLYCYLCYCLINES
Tigecycline (Tygacil)
* Check weekly CPK’s Broad Spectrum ADVERSE DRUG REACTIONS:
G+: MRSA N/V
DOSAGE BOX:
Tooth Discoloration
IV: 100mg Loading Dose VRSA
50mg bid G : An: 83
–
ORAL ANTIBIOTICS
Itraconazole (Sporanox)
Dermatophytes ADVERSE DRUG REACTIONS:
Onychomycosis
Candida GI upset / Rash / Headache
Tinea pedis(off label)
Molds Hepatotoxicity LFT’s ALT & AST
DRUG INTERACTIONS:
DOSAGE BOX: Statins Ca2+ Channel Blockers
Pulse Dosing = 2x 100mg tabs in AM & PM with food Tikosyn Erythromycin
Take for 1 week of the mo. for ___ months
CONTRAINDICATIONS:
Patient with CHF!
Terbinafine (Lamisil) Dermatophytes ADVERSE DRUG REACTIONS: Rare
Onychomycosis Headache / Abnormal Taste
Tinea pedis(off label) Green Vision
DOSAGE BOX: DRUG INTERACTIONS: CYP450 2D6
Pulse Dosing = 250mg qd 1 week/mo over 2mo Cimetidine Cyclosporine
Normal = 250mg qd 3mo Rifampin Nortriptyline
Caffeine
Griseofulvin (Gris-PEG)
Dermatophytes ADVERSE DRUG REACTIONS:
Chronic Tinea pedis Paresthesia / Rash / Headache
DOSAGE BOX: DRUG INTERACTIONS:
250mg tid (x4-8 weeks) Oral Contraceptives
Warfarin
Barbituates
ORAL ANTIPARASITIC
Thiabendazole (Mintezol) DOSAGE BOX:
* Cutaneous Larva Migrans Mintezol = 10% aqueous solution qid
Ivermectin Ivermectin = 200μg/kg po x1dose for 1-2days
84
TShwer
WOUND CARE & DRESSINGS
ALLEVYN FOAM
Moderate to High Exudate
Never use the adhesive type!
HYPAFIX
Adhesive, non-woven fabric
Hold post-op dressings / catheters / drainage tubes in place
85
TRANSPARENT FILMS = Opsite, Tegederm, Bioclusive, Epivew
Adhesive, Polyurethane film
Low Exudate
May be used over absorptive wound filter or hydrogels
NOT for INFECTION!
Superficial Wounds (Blisters)
(+) Up to 7d wear time (semi-permeable)
(+) Allows visual assessment
(+) Provides Moisture
(–) Potential to macerate surrounding skin with excessive drainage
(–) NOT absorptive
(–) Adhesive may tear healthy skin
86
ALGINATE = Sorbsan, Dermacea Alginate, Kaltostat, Curasorb
Seaweed Polymer
Gel formed when fibers interact with wound fluid
Pad or Rope Form
Partial/Full Thickness Granulating Wounds
Moderate to High Exudates
(+) Haemostatic effect
(+) Up to 7d wear time
(–) Requires 2o dressing
Infected wounds if changed daily
Tan mucoid appearance upon removal
ALGINATE WITH COLLAGEN = Fibracol
90% Collagen, 10% Alginate
ALGINATE IMPREGNATED WITH SILVER
ABSORPTIVE WOUND FILTERS
Sheets, Rope, Paste, Granules, Powder made of Starch Polymers
Deep Wounds
Heavy Exudate
COLLAGEN BASED PRODUCTS: Medifil Particles/Pads/Gels, SkinTempNylon Mesh over
Use Collagen Gels for Dry Wounds collagen membrane
87
RECOMBINANT DNA TECHNOLOGY
REGRANEX = Becaplermin
Recombinant PDGF platelet-derived growth factor
Attracts monocytes & fibroblasts -- inflammatory phase
Stimulates granulation tissue
Refrigerate
Regranex Gel 0.01%
15g tube, apply qd, spread evenly and thin (1/16th inch)
Cover in moist saline gauze dressing
PROCURAN = Thrombin–Induced Platelet Releasate
GF from patients own blood
50-200cc of blood drawn from patient
Spin down, separate, activate the thrombin
1 blood draw = 3mo of daily application
GRAFTS
APLIGRAFT = Bilayered Skin Equivalent
Epidermis & Dermis Dermis side down
Newborn foreskin
FedEx in 24hr in petri dish – use immediately
Place a compressive wrap over it
DERMAGRAFT = Human Dermal Replacement
Newborn foreskin
Cover with Allevyn & Hypofix tape
DO NOT use with any other topical agent
OASIS
Small Interstine Submucosa Pig/Porcine
SIS scaffold attracts patients cells
Store @ room temp up to 18mo
INTERGRA
Collagen–GlycosAminoGlycan Biodegradable Matrix Cow/Bovine
Porous Matrix of cross-linked bovine tendon collagen/GAGs
Semi-Permeable Polysilxane (Silicone) layer
Sterile Preperation
88
GRAFT JACKET
Processed Human Dermal Membrane
3-D Bioactive Frame – supports granulation tissue
Deep Wounds
GAMMAGRAFT
Irradiated human skin allograft
Epidermis & Dermis
Store @ room temp
After 24hr in place -- remove secondary covering and allow area to air-
dry for 2-3hr once dried in place there is no need to recover it
(+) Patients can do this at home
TOPICAL ENZYMES:
SANTYL = Collagenase
Digests collagen in necrotic tissue
Collagen in healthy tissue or in newly formed granulation tissue is not
attacked
May be used as an Antibiotic Powder
Stop use when granulation tissue is well established
Accuzyme, Gladase
Papain Proteolytic enzyme from papaya
Urea Protein denaturing agent
May have a burning sensation in patients RARE
Cleanse with normal saline, NOT water
Panafil
Papain
Urea
Chlorophyllin Copper Complex Sodium Inhibits hemagglutinating &
inflammatory properties of protein degradation products in the wound
Elase = FibrinolysinDesoxyribonuclease RARE 2 Find
TOPICAL AGENTS FOR LOCAL BLOOD FLOW
XENADERM OINTMENT
Balsum of Peru Increased blood flow to wound site
Castor Oil Creates a moist environment
Trypsin Maintains moist wound bed
Aluminum Magnesium Hydroxide Stearate Fluid Repellent
89
ANKLE SCOPES
PORTALS:
Anterior
o AnteroMedial
Medial to Tibialis Anterior
Visualize: medial gutter & medial transchondral margins
Caution: TA, Saphenous V & N
o Accessory AnteroMedial
o AnteroLateral
Lateral to EDL or Peronial Tertius
Visualize: lateral gutter
Caution: EDL, Peronial Tertius, Superficial Peroneal N
o Accessory AnteroLateral
o AnteroCentral
Lateral to EHL
Caution: AntTibial A, Deep Peroneal N, EHL & EDL tendons
o Medial Midline Portal
Posterior
o PosteroMedial
Medial to the Achilles Tendon
Caution: Sural N, Lesser Saphenous V
o Accessory PosteroMedial
o Modified PosteroMedial
o PosteroLateral
Lateral to the Achilles Tendon
Visualize: the posterior process of the talus & posterior media talar dome
Caution: T-D-A-N-H
o Accessory PosteroLateral
o TransAchilles 6 Central Points
o Coaxial Portals o Med / Central / Lat – TibioTalar Artic
o Posterior Inferior TibioFibular Lig
21 POINT EXAM: o Transverse TibioFibular Lig
8 Anterior Points o Capsular Reflection of the FHL tend
o Deltoid Lig 7 Posterior Points
o AntMed Gutter o PostMed Gutter
o Med / Central / Lat – Talar Dome o Med / Central / Lat – Talar Dome
o Ant TibioFibular Articulation o Post TibioFibular Artic
o AntLat Gutter o PostLat Gutter
o Anterior Gutter 90 o Posterior Gutter
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PODIATRIC RADIOLOGY also leave epiphyseal scars which may look like stress fxs.
These occur in predictable anatomical areas. Epiphyseal
INTERPRETATION OF PEDAL RADIOGRAPHS plates tend to close from medial to lateral in teenagers.
X-ray interpretation is a written notation of pathological Talar beaking is a finding on lateral of the distal neck of the
findings made in objective terminology. Correlation of talus that occurs secondary to capsular pressure.
radiographic findings along with clinical and lab findings Trabeculae in some circumstances may be accentuated, and
allows a physician to arrive at differential diagnoses. X-ray look possibly like a fx.
interpretation follows the 5-step approach: The calcaneal apophysis is located at the posterior aspect of
1. Quality of Film the calcaneus, and has irregular margins. It is often mistaken
for a fracture. It also may be normally bifid.
• Too light or too dark (background/film density)
Compact bony islands are normal and benign variants.
• Proper projection
A simulated fracture may occur in any bone w/ more than
• Proper positioning one ossification center.
• Adequate contrast The silver dollar navicular is a normal (small) variant of
2. Soft Tissue Assessment navicular development – be sure to r/o Kohler’s dz.
• Increased ST density (edema, obesity) A pronated foot may cause the spaces between bones in the
• ST calcification (vascular, traumatic, chronic) midfoot to be accentuated, causing a simulated lisfranc’s fx.
• ST contour – thicker medially and proximally A pseudo-epiphysis is a secondary ossification center.
• Foreign bodies (r/o artifact w/ multiple views) The gun-barrel effect is seen when a bone (usually phalanx)
3. Bone Assessment is perpendicular to the film plane. It may look like a cyst.
• Number of osseous structures – start distally and Distal phalangeal condyles are normal variants.
work proximally Cone-shaped epiphyses may be normal but are frequently
• Integrity and morphology of osseous structures – are syndromic as well.
cortices intact? Are there structural changes?
• Density of osseous structures – evaluate 2nd MT ACCESSORY OSSICLES AND SESAMOIDS
o Rule of 1/3s – in individuals <40 y/o, middle 1/3 Accessory ossicles and sesamoids are normal variants in
should be medullary, outer 2/3 should be cortical anatomy that occur in predictable locations. Accessory
o Rule of 1/2s – in individuals >40 y/o, half bone ossicles usually arise earlier, are larger, and irregular
should be cortical, half medullary compared to sesamoids (which are usually present in tendons.)
o 1/3 of bone is lost before apparent on X-ray Os Trigonum (2-8%) – occurs posterior to the lateral tubercle
o Cortical bone lost at a rate of 2%/year (>35 y/o) of the talus. When fused (~18 y/o) is called steida’s process.
o Medullary bone lost at a rate or 1% per year Os Tibiale Externum (3-12%) – secondary ossification center
4. Joints and Joint Spaces of the navicular tuberosity. The pre-hallux type is pyramidal
• Is there narrowing? Is it symmetrical/asymmetrical? in shape, while the accessory navicular is in the PT tendon.
• Absence of joint = coalition/joint fusion Os Intermetatarsium (1-10%) – occurs btw the 1st cuneiform
• Increased space is due to joint effusion and 1st and 2nd MT bases. May fuse.
5. Biomechanical Assessment Os Supranaviculare (1%) – located on the dorsal aspect of
• Measure of angular relationships for treatment goals the TN joint (may look like fx/osteophyte).
• Determines surgical procedure and post-op correction Os Calcaneus Secundarius (1%) – located at the anterior
process of the calcaneus – may be confused w/ rowe fx.
• Performed in angle and base of gait
Os Sustentaculi (<1%) – is located posterior to the
• Serial radiographs to check progression of healing
sustentaculum tali, often fused. Is assoc w/ STJ coalition.
Conclusion – use systematic approach to avoid missing
Os Supratalare is located on the dorsum of the talar head.
details. Review the entire film. Do not let your eyes be drawn
Os Vesalinum (<1%) – occurs at the proximal 5th MT base.
to the obvious. Cite only differentials which make sense and
Usually confused w/ apophysitis, or a stewart/jones fracture.
are defensible to you.
Accessory ossicle of the Hallux occurs usually at the base of
the distal phalanx at the medial or lateral aspect.
RADIOGRAPHIC VARIANTS
Os Subtibiale/Subfibulare (4%) - occur distal to the medial
Identification of variants requires knowledge of normal
and lateral malleoli. R/o trauma
anatomy. Often normal variants are mistaken for pathology.
Hallux IPJ Sesamoids (50%) – located at the IPJ of the
The simplest error in this regard is structural overlap due to
hallux, may remain cartilaginous. Assoc w/ plantar HPKs.
wrong projections ordered.
Lesser IPJ Sesamoids occur in the joint capsule and short
Benign fibrocortical defect – small area of discontinuity
flexor tendons of the lesser digits. Does not occur in the 3rd.
usually in long bones. Eventually fades away over time.
Os Peroneum (20%) - a sesamoid in the PL tendon near the
Nutrient foramen – may look like a fx, but discontinuity
cuboid. Often is not ossified.
“stops” halfway through the cortex.
Constant Sesamoids occur in the MPJ of the hallux and
Ward’s triangle – area of low trabecular density in the
ossify around 10-12 y/o. The tibial sesamoid is larger and is
anterior inferior portion of the calcaneus.
commonly bipartite. Partitions occur in cardinal body planes,
Epiphyseal plates can look similar to fractures, if the X-ray
and their combined size is greater than a single sesamoid.
passes through the plane of the plate. Closed epiphyseal plates
You must r/o fx when dxing a bipartite sesamoid.
lymphatic channels), inflammation, surgery, burns, infection,
or helminthic infestation. Inflammatory edema is associated
with systemic disorders, particularly arthridites and metabolic
disorders. D/Dx include A vitaminosis, RCPS, melorheotosis,
collagen vascular diseases, dilantin use, reynaud’s disease, and
thyroid dysfunction (thyroid acropachy – nodular myxedema.)
THE 5 STEP APPROACH TO PLAIN FILM ANALYSIS Traumatic edema will be localized to the site of trauma and
STEP 2: SOFT TISSUE ANALYSIS should be consistent with the history. Besides direct trauma,
The soft tissue analysis of plain film incorporates two main this type of edema is seen in stress fractures, infection, and in
features: surgical sites post-op. Of particular clinical significance is
1. Tissue Density edema in the posterior triangle (bordered by the posterior
2. Tissue Contour flexor hellucis longus, the anterior tendo Achilles, and the
First you want to determine what kind of view you posterior-superior calcaneus.) Edema or hematoma from
are looking at. The most common is of course the DP view of injury to the tendo Achilles will cause this triangle to
the foot, which may be taken WB or NWB. To tell the disappear, which is a pathologic finding. Another pathologic
difference, look at the joint spaces and see if they are clearly finding is the teardrop sign of the ankle, which is visible as
visible. If the MPJs are clearly visible the view is probably increased tissue density surrounding the ankle joint. This is
WB, which is taken at 15 degrees as opposed to NWB, which caused by extravasation of fluid to the ankle joint subsequent
is shot at 0. You may also look to see the ankle position (90 in to trauma. Ligamentous sprain is visible as diffuse edema
WB.) The view is important because WB views will show the surrounding the area of the affected ligament.
soft tissue somewhat distorted due to pressure. On the DP this Burns and frostbite cause areas of devitalized tissue
presents as extra thickness of the S.T. on the lateral column, to show up on radiographs as areas of increased density.
and on the lateral it presents as flatness on the plantar surface. Small localized areas of increased density are visible in the
The first point, density evaluation, requires case of focal gigantism associated with acromegaly. Bony
knowledge of different tissue densities to be of any use. The growth is also affected in this disorder and diagnosis should be
least dense material is of course gas or air, which is easy to make if it has not been made already.
pathologic. The next higher density is fat, typically seen in Heel pad thickening is a finding associated with a
kager’s/bohler’s/toygar’s triangle, as well as on the plantar number of pathologies, and as such measuring the heel pad is
surface. Next dense from fat is water, which is the primary recommended in routine analysis of NWB views. Possible
composition of the soft tissues including muscle and tendon. D/Dx include acromegaly, dilantin use, plantar edema, plantar
Muscular compartments of the foot as well as the tendo infection, obesity, trauma, myxedema, and thyroid acropachy.
Achilles will be of this density. Next dense is atrophied or The accepted limit for normal heel pad thickness is 25mm.
devitalized tissue, which is somewhat dehydrated. Like gas, Soft tissue emphysema is a decrease in radiodensity
tissues of this density are pathologic and should be explained due to the presence of air or gas in the tissues. Always
fully. Next dense is calcific density, which is the density of pathological and often the sign of an emergent situation, S.T.
calcium deposits in the tissues. This is most often pathologic. emphysema is a worthy finding. Gas is almost always
Next dense is ossific density, which is the density of bone. produced by bacteria, especially clostridium perfringens,
Bones are only slightly denser than calcified structures – they which may produce superficial emphysema (radiographic
are normally differentiated by their internal architecture. emphysema) or deep emphysema (deep intramuscular
Finally, the densest structures radiologically are metallic or emphysema). The only non-emergent emphysema finding is
glass structures, which are almost completely radioopaque. of a gas abscess which is a localized ulceration containing gas
Objects of this density are almost always foreign bodies, which does not spread to other areas. Gas abscesses are
although in many cases they simply represent fixation or typically found only in the distal part of the digits. It is
implants from prior surgery. important to distinguish emphysema from the decreased
Pathologic changes in soft tissue density may be radiographic density caused by a sinus tract leading to an
either an increase or decrease in character. Edema causes ulcer. A sinus tract will always track back to the surface of
generally an increased radiodensity which matches that of the skin, whereas emphysema is contained within the soft
muscle or tendon, usually in areas where fat density is normal. tissues.
This is important in the posterior triangle as well as on the Some disorders which affect only soft tissue contour
plantar surface of the foot as extravasation of blood or fluid are worthy of note as well. Ainhum’s disease is a thickening
will show up as an obliteration of normal fat anatomy on film. of fascial bands about the base of the proximal phalanges of
Edema also causes an increase in soft tissue contour, which is the digits, causing a constriction of the underlying tissues that
the second point to evaluate in soft tissue analysis. Edema is is visible on x-ray. This constriction eventually leads to
normally classified by its cause. Obstructive edema is autoamputation, and although it is easy to diagnose from X-
caused by obstruction of the lymphatic channels draining the ray, there is no known treatment for this disorder. The
affected area. This may be normal for the individual with sullivan’s sign sometimes seen on radiograph is a splaying of
congenital lymph blockage, as in lymphedema praecox, but digits which are abducted away from each other at the level of
with insidious onset of obstructive edema a previously the MPJ. This is caused usually by a space-occupying lesion
undiagnosed pathology may be at work. D/Dx include tumor, like a neuroma or interstitial fibrosis following surgery.
trauma, radiation (repeated exposure to radiation damages Sometimes, however, the etiology is biomechanical, due to the
unequal pull of flexor tendons that can result from DM motor particularly CREST syndrome. Calcinosis circumscripta
neuropathy, or simply from closely positioned metatarsal associated with frank scleroderma is termed thiberge-
heads. weissenback syndrome. These distal calcifications
Vascular calcification is seen in varicose veins, predispose the digit to ulceration. Tumoral calcinosis is not
monckeberg’s sclerosis, ASO, thrombophlebitits, and DVT. associated with cancer as the name implies, but rather is a
They appear on X-ray as thin parallel or curvilinear lines. descriptive term referring to the presentation of the
Phleboliths are small round or oval calcifications that appear calcification. Seen in renally compromised patients (usually
within superficial veins. DM type II), these calcifications begin near joints as small
Dracunculosis is a rare finding that is seen in nodules that eventually grow in size to possibly impinge
patients who have had a history of filiaria medinasis infection. neurovascular structures, limit ROM, and cause ulceration.
These helminthes, which burrow into the dermis of the foot, The typical presentation is near the 5th MPJ. This type of
remain after death as bits of foreign tissue that sometimes growth is benign.
calcify. The dracunculosis is the radiographic finding of these The last form of calcinosis is calcified bursa
calcified helminthes, which present as curvilinear lines of secondary to irritation (usually posterior heel, medial 1st MPJ,
radiodensity that do not follow any vascular anatomy. lateral 5th MPJ.)
Hemosiderin deposits may calcify in tissues Soft tissue ossification is distinguished from soft
following the trauma or disease state that caused them. This tissue calcification by the degree of organization within the
type of increased radiodensity is typically seen in periarticular ossified segment, typically with trabecular patterns.
tissue, arthritic joints, or the subcutaneous area of the ankle. Additionally, ossifications that occur near bone
General calcification of the soft tissues can be characteristically do not cause periosteal reaction.
distinguished from ossification by the degree of organization Progressive myositis ossificans (aka fibrodysplasia ossificans
seen in the radiodense area. Calcification is non-homogenous progressive) is a rare childhood disorder in which there is
and disorganized, giving a “salt and pepper” appearance. extensive and unexplained muscular ossification which causes
Ossification, in contrast, is highly organized, often exhibiting extraarticular ankylosis and disuse osteoporosis.
a trabecular pattern, and may have a cortex. In general, soft Neurological myositis ossificans has a similar presentation
tissue calcification is much more common that ossification. but occurs in conjunction with a neurogenic lesion (stroke,
Calcification etiologies are organized into three broad spina bifida, encephalitis, syphilis, brain trauma,
categories: metastatic, dystrophic, and calcinosis. myelomeningocoele, spinal cord hemisection, tuberculosis,
Metastatic calcification is systemic calcification of a and poliomyelitis). The calcifications occur at levels below
metabolic derivative, such as hyperparathyroidism, the neurogenic lesion. Finally, myositis post-traumatica
hypervitaminosis D, renal osteodystrophy, sarcoidosis, or (circumscripta) is an area of localized ossification secondary
cancer. The calcifications are caused by an imbalance in to acute trauma. Ossification begins soon after the traumatic
calcium or phosphorus metabolism. The calcifications may incident, but cortical formation is only seen 6-8 weeks after
appear vascular, but are typically more numerous and less the incident. Ectopic bone within the muscle may also be seen
organized than vascular calcifications. Advanced parallel to the muscle fibers. On X-ray the mass appears
hyperparathyroidism causes chunky calcification, in which similar to an egg, with well-defined borders. Histologically it
separate calcifications conglomerate into calcified patches that contains the same sections as an epiphyseal plate.
are prone to ulceration. Foreign body analysis in soft tissue is vital to
Dystrophic calcification is calcification of localizing the foreign body for surgical removal. Analysis of
devitalized tissues without metabolic imbalance. the film typically calls for the ”tunnel technique” in which a
Theoretically calcium precipitates in devitalized tissue, giving piece of paper is rolled up into a tube, which is used to analyze
rise to this type of presentation. Examples of possible small segments of the film at a time. Often needles are placed
etiologies include ehlers-danlos syndrome, pseudoxanthoma in three planes near the affected area so that when films are
elasticum, fibromatosis, tumor, cyst, hematoma, focal taken the exact location of the object can be triangulated. For
necrosis, trauma of any kind, and vascular disease. One some foreign bodies, particularly wood, advanced imaging
peculiar finding is that of hemarthrosis, which is calcification modalities (ultrasound, CT, MRI, xerogram) should be
of blood exudate in a joint space. These calcifications may employed.
aggregate as “pebbles” within the capsule, visible on x-ray,
that can limit ROM of the affected joint (common in the
ankle.)
Calcinosis is the term applied to califications that are
idiopathic in nature. There are four syndromes associated
mainly with calcinosis. Calcinosis interstitialis universalis
presents as a calcification of subcutaneous structures,
progressing deeper with time. It may affect any soft tissue,
but calcifications are generally laid down in linear
aggregations parallel to the long axis of the limb. This
condition is very rare and is diagnosed in youth. Calcinosis
circumscripta is a distal subcutaneous calcification that is
normally associated with collagen-vascular diseases,
THE 5 STEP APPROACH TO PLAIN FILM ANALYSIS progressive onset of pain, stiffness, swelling, and atrophy
STEP 3: BONE EVALUATION distal to the site of injury over a 3-6 month period. The cause
is hyperactivity of the sympathetic nervous system. In type I
OSTEOLYTIC DISORDERS RCPS no specific nerve damage can be identified. In type II
Osteoporosis is an absolute reduction in bone mass RCPS direct nerve injury has occurred. In 70% of pts, the
and density. Osteopenia is a generalized term to denote a disease can spread up the extremity, sometimes even to the
relative loss in bone density regardless of any etiology. opposite limb. RCPS can also be staged.
Osteoporosis is the most common skeletal pathology, common Stage I describes localized edema, muscle pain, joint stiffness,
in smaller older individuals who are less active. Females are and vasospasm with duration of about 3mos. Additionally,
affected more commonly then males overall. (Age-related, or trigger points form where touch causes pain out of character to
“senile” osteoporosis affects men and women equally.) the stimulus (causalgia.) Osteopenia is noted on x-ray distal to
Environmental factors that contribute to osteoporosis include the lesion.
smoking, alcohol intake, estrogen deficiency, and the use of Stage 2 includes increased pain and area of involvement,
certain medications. The most common presentation of brawny edema, hair loss, brittle nails, and spotty osteopenia.
osteoporosis is vertebral fracture, followed by hip fracture. (Osteopenia w/ areas of normal bone.)
Bone loss in osteoporosis is mostly cortical (80%), Stage 3 trophic damage becomes irreversible at this stage, w/
but 33-50% of bone must be lost before the disease is evident intractable pain, muscle atrophy, joint weakness, flexor tendon
on x-ray. Peak bone mass is realized at age 35, with contracture (producing deformity) and deossification.
involutional bone loss due to age beginning at age 35-40. Tx for RCPS includes pain tx (NSAIDs, opiates), nerve
Cortical bone is lost at a rate of about 1% per year after this blocks, physical therapy, and sx sympathectomy.
point. Bone has a gray appearance on x-ray w/ the primary Osteomalacia is a lack of calcium in osteoid matrix
trabeculae accentuated and the secondary trabeculae reduced. laid down by osteoblasts, resulting in improper bone
Primary osteoporosis is that which has no underlying mineralization. Symptoms include muscle weakness, bone
disorder. Secondary osteoporosis is caused secondary to a pain on palpation, and bone deformity. X-ray shows osteoid
pathology like steroid tx, myeloma, metastasis, gastric sx, seams, lines of unmineralized bone that appear as pseudofxs
anticonvulsants, hyperparathyroidism, heparin, DM, (aka increment fx, looser line, umbua zonen, milkman
alcoholism, disuse, hypogonadism, amenorrhea, and anorexia. syndrome). The cortex is thin and blurs into the medullary
Generalized osteoporosis affects all bones, particularly of the bone (endosteal blurring.)
axial skeleton, and may be post-menopausal or senile. Post- Rickets is osteomalacia seen in children, usually due
menopausal osteoporosis affects females aged 51-75, and is to vitamin D deficiency (but also due to renal dz.) It typically
caused by the increased osteoclastic action present in states of affects children 6-12 months old, and will be accompanied by
estrogen deficiency. Mainly only medullary bone is lost, with muscle tetany, irritability, and weakness. Physical
coarsened trabeculae. It is particularly associated with development is impaired, bone growth is impaired and
vertebral, hip, and colle’s fx (wrist.) Lab values for this type deforms. Cartilage in the epiphyseal plates hypertrophies and
of osteoporosis are normal except for a decrease in PTH. is surrounded by edema. CXR shows a rachitic rosary about
Senile osteoporosis has about an equal distribution btw males the costo-chondral junctions. Proximal calcification of the
and females over 70 y/o. There is a proportionate loss of metaphyses is absent, and margins are frayed and cupped.
cortical and trabecular bone due to generalized loss of Pseudofractures are also seen in rickets as well as
osteoblast activity. Lab values show increased PTH. The tibial/femoral bowing.
most common presenting symptom is extra-capsular hip fx. Scurvy is a disease caused by long-term deficiency
Regional osteoporosis occurs only in a particular segment, of vit. C. It takes 4 months to be apparent on X-ray, and
usually due to disuse atrophy. Localized osteoporosis affects typically affects infants aged 4-8months. Scurvy is
one part of a bone, and is due to tumor, arthritis, or infection. characterized by improper collagen formation, leading to
Diagnosis of osteoporosis is preferred with a device spontaneous capillary hemorrhage, osteopenia, and poor
called a DEXA scanner, or dual-energy x-ray absorbiometry. cartilage. Radiographically, there is a dense zone of
This measures the absolute density of bone via penetrance of provisional calcification (line of frankel), ring epiphyses
x-rays. CT can also be used to diagnose this disease. (wimberger’s sign), irregular metaphyseal margins (corner
Osteoporosis is graded using the calcaneal index: sign), metaphyseal protuberance (pelken’s spurs), scorbutic
Grade V (normal) – all trabeculae are uniformly present zones (trummerfield zones), and sub-periosteal hemorrhage.
Grade IV (normal) – posterior compressive trabeculae are Hyperparathyroidism is ostepenia due to
divided into two separate columns overactivity of the parathyroid gland. Primary
Grade III (borderline) – posterior tensile trabeculae are lost hyperparathyroidism is caused by parathyroid
Grade II (osteoporotic) – anterior tensile trabeculae lost adenoma/carcinoma/hyperplasia, or an ectopic PTH-secreting
Grade I (severe) – all tensile, most compression trabeculae tumor. Secondary hyperparathyroidism is caused by renal
are lost disease. Typical presentation is female, 30-50 y/o, weakness,
Regional Complex Pain Syndrome (RCPS) also lethargy, polydipsia/uria, hypercalcemia and kidney stones.
known as the “great mimicker,” manifests on x-ray as an acute Serum calcium and phosphate are elevated. The radiographic
painful regional osteopenia following minor trauma. Males hallmark is sub-periosteal bone resorbtion (1), followed by
and females are equally affected, and patients are typically accentuated trabeculae and reduced medullary bone (2), and
over age 50 and of type A personality. Presenting s/sx are formation of brown tumors. (3) Bone resorbtion typically
occurs first in the phalanges, and soft tissue ossifications may Hypervitaminosis D presents with nausea, anorexia, polyuria
also be seen. Brown tumors are “holes” in the bone that are and polydipsia. X-rays show extensive calcification of blood
filled with osteoclast-laden fibrous tissue, seen in both primary vessels, soft-tissue, kidney, and peri-articular spaces.
and secondary forms.
OSTEOBLASTIC DISORDERS
Melorheostosis of Leri – “flowing hyperostosis” that looks
like candlewax dripping down the bone. Etiology unknown. BONE AND FRACTURE HEALING
No gender predilection. Joint effusion w/ decreased ROM and Bone Characteristics: Bones support our frame as well as
contracture, one limb (monomelic) affected, muscle wasting, protect the vital organs, provide a source of calcium, a site of
lymphedema all are symptoms. X-ray shows wavy cortical insertion for tendons and ligaments, and provide the rigidity
thickening, narrowing of endosteal space. needed for movement against gravity. Bones comprise 1/10th
Osteopathia Striata – “Voorhoeve’s Disease” most of our body weight. They resist axial stresses very well but
commonly seen in the hip metaphysic. Seen as a linear band are weak against rotational forces. Tubular bones are built for
of bone density of unknown etiology, typically coexisting with axial support and locomotion. Flat bones are built for
sclerosing dysplasias. protection of vital organs.
Osteopetrosis – “Albers-Schoenberg Disease” also known as Bone Healing: Consists mainly of spontaneous regeneration.
“brittle bone disease.” Medulla is completely destroyed – all Tubular bone forms by endochondral ossification, flat bones
bone is cortical. Existing bone thus has no shock absorbing by intramembranous ossification. The periosteum surrounds
ability and is very brittle. It is a hereditary disorder in which and protects the bone, and is made up of an outer fibrous layer
the osteochondroid tissue of developing bone fails to mature and an inner “cambium” layer which contains osteocytes. It is
into medullary and lamellar bone. There are 2 types: this inner layer of the periosteum as well as the endosteum that
osteopetrosis tarda (benign, a dominant trait) and osteopetrosis are most closely associated with bone healing.
congenital (malignant, recessive trait w/ neck LAD and HSM.) FRACTURE TERMINOLOGY
Lack of bone remodeling results in long bones having an Avulsion Fx – pulloff fx consisting of a fragment of bone
Erlenmeyer flask deformity (flared metaphysis.) Variably, pulled off by a muscle, tendon, or ligament.
some persons present with a spotty osteopetrosis which Butterfly Fx – triangular shaped cortical fragment that is part
appears like a “bone within a bone” or as striations of normal of a communuted fracture.
bone with osteopetrotic bone. Chip/Corner Fx – small fragment of bone from a joint
Osteopoikilosis – “Osteopathia condensans disseminata” or margin. Distinguish from a joint mouse, which is a piece of
“spotty bone disease” is a hereditary disorder that presents as osteophytic bone that breaks off into a joint space.
multiple compact bone islands existing within normal bone. Closed Fx – does not penetrate the skin.
The disease is asymptomatic and is usually an incidental Comminuted Fx – consists of more than 2 pieces.
finding. Turnover is also very high, such that two radiographs Fleck Sign – avulsion fx by the lisfranc’s ligament of the base
taken in the same year may show completely different of the 2nd metatarsal.
presentations. 25% of patients have a coexisting Impaction Fx – telescoping of bone segments (also called
dermatological problem (dermatofibrosis, scleroderma, “bayoneting”) that results in shortening of a segment.
syndactyly), 20% have arthralgia. X-ray shows multiple Greenstick Fx – incomplete fx in which one cortex is affected
compact bony islands in long bones with uniform density. and the fracture line follows down the axial line of the bone.
Rarely, bone islands may have a radiolucent center. Torus Fx – trabeculae are buckled inwards with a cortical
Compact Bone Islands are normal variants seen in regular bulge around the fracture site
radiographs. They appear as small areas of radiodensity, Insufficiency Fx – aka pathological fx, caused by normal
usually in flat or tubular bones. What may appear normally as physiological stresses through diseased bone.
a compact bone island can rarely be a osteoid osteoma. Oblique Fx – fx is 45 degrees from the long axis of the bone
Osteoid Osteoma is a painful benign tumor that is typically Occult Fx – see also stress fx; subtle and difficult to identify
<1cm, appearing as a compact bone island with a radiolucent Open/Compound Fx – skin is penetrated
center. They are usually located near the cortex. Symptoms Simple Fx – two bone fragments are involved
include pain at night, relieved by ASA. Dx w/ bone scan. Spiral Fx – fx is circumferential and longitudinal in bone
Heavy Metal Poisoning can be by lead (plumbism), Stress Fx – due to repetitive stresses, no fx line is apparent but
phosphorus, or bismuth. Lead lines at the metaphyses are bony callus forms 10-14d on X-ray. Must rely on clinical Sx.
visible on radiographs one month after exposure. Lead Transverse Fx – fx at 90 degrees to the long axis of bone.
deposition may also be seen at the distal ends of the digits. FRACTURE REPAIR
Lead line density is determined by the amount of lead Displacement/Distraction – requires reduction
ingested, the width is the single-time duration of exposure, and Closed Reduction – realign fragments through manipulation
the number equals the number of exposures. What may of ST, stabilize w/ cast
appear as lead lines in a 4 y/o or younger is actually a normal Open Reduction – realign fragments surgically, using ORIF
finding. Lead foreign bodies do not cause plumbism (unless Inflammatory Phase – Periosteum, haversian system
located within a joint space.) damaged, bleeds to form hematoma. Osteocytes die from
Hypervitaminiosis A presents with dermatitis, pruritis, ischemia, creating necrotic tissue that induces the
alopecia and skin yellowing. X-rays show solid periosteal inflammatory response of vasodilation, edema, and
bone at the ulna and metacarpals. macrophage attraction.
Reparative Phase – governed by vascularity, the reparative This is a variant of non-union characterized by scar tissue and
phase involves the formation of a callus which is mainly fibrin false joint formation. Congenital pseudoarthrosis is present
from inflammation invaded w/ pluripotent cells for healing. A at birth and is assoc w/ neurofibromatosis. It typically occurs
collar callus forms around the bone to stabilize, dictated by in the distal tibia/fibula. Acquired pseudoarthrosis causes
the periosteum, while the internal callus is dictated by the pain, instability, and bowing, with sclerotic bone ends and
endosteum and dictates bridging and union between the two lucency between fragments. It is most common in the distal
segments. Compression encourages bone rather than fibrous tibia.
tissue formation. Necrotic tissue is simultaneously removed. Malunion
Clinical Union – the goal of reduction, clinical union is the Bone healing that occurs in non-reduced fx, in which bones
resolution of symptoms w/ palpable rigidity to the affected are in improper position. It can spontaneously correct in peds.
bone. Clinical union precedes radiographic union. THE 5 STEP APPROACH TO PLAIN FILM ANALYSIS
Remodeling Phase – begins while the reparative phase is STEP 4: EVALUATION OF JOINT SPACE
winding down, in the remodeling phase the callus is resorbed
and the trabecular bone remodeled along lines of stress, PEDAL COALITIONS
resulting in a bone that is stronger than when it broke. A coalition is a union of separate things into a single body or
Cancellous bone heals faster than cortical bone, and has a group; true coalitions are intra-articular fusions of bones,
smaller callus. Cortical healing is limited by vascularity and and bar/bridge coalitions are extra-articular fusions of bone.
the amount of movement permitted during the healing phase. A complete coalition is osseous and limits all motion. An
COMPLICATIONS OF FRACTURE REPAIR incomplete coalition is a union by fibrous or cartilaginous
Delayed Union – union is not achieved w/in the expected time tissue. A rudimentary coalition is an osseous projection
(6 wks.) This is due to inadequate reduction, soft-tissue which limits motion but does not produce a union of parts.
imposition in the fx, excess ST destruction, vascular A synchondrosis is a cartilaginous union, a synostosis is a
disruption, inadequate immobilization, fragment distraction, or bony union, and a syndesmosis is a fibous union of two parts.
inadequate fixation. AO principles dictate that bone healing Coalitions are caused by accessory ossicles (os trigonum, os
fails in tension and heals in compression. sustentaculi proprium), failure of mesenchyme to segment in
Non-Union – complete arrest of bony repair, replaced instead development, trauma, DJD (causing a fibrocartilaginous
by fibrous, cartilaginous, or synovial compensation for the fx fusion), inflammatory rheumatoid conditions, and fxs.
site. It is variably classified as being diagnosable 6-8 months Tarsal coalitions occur in 1-2% of the population and consist
post-fx. Others say non-union is dx if no radiographic healing of the talo-calcaneal coalition (most common), calcaneo-
changes are seen for 3 months. Classification of non-union is navicular, and talonavicular (least common.)
by Weber and Cech, and are divided into two major Ossification of coalitions in the tarsus occur at different times.
categories, hypertrophic and avascular (or hypotrophic.) The age of ossificiation determines when symptoms occur.
Hypertrophic Non-Union may be of the elephant’s foot type, Talonavicular coalitions 3-5 y/o
the horse’s hoof type, or the oligotrophic type. Elephant’s Calcaneonavicular coalitions 8-12 y/o
foot type is usually due to early WB and inadequate Talocalcaneal coalitions 12-16 y/o
stabilization. Horse’s hoof is caused by inadequate internal S/Sx of coalitions include stiffness, decreased ROM, pain,
fixation that has allowed a small amount of movement. peroneal spasm, anterior/posterior tibial spasm, local POP,
Oliogotrophic non-union has poor callus, and is usually due to pronation, cavus deformity, and fixed RF valgus.
inadequate alignment of fx ends. Peroneal spastic flatfoot is characterized by restricted STJ
Avascular Non-Union – consists of four types; torsion motion, RF valgus (in OKC), FF abduction, bowstrung
wedge, comminuted, defect, and atrophic. Torsion wedge is peroneal tendon, and extensor digitorum longus spasm.
incomplete healing of a fx in which there are three or more D/Dx of coalitions include RA, JRA, trauma, neoplasm,
pieces, in which some pieces fuse together but others do not acromegaly, CCPV, casting (causing peroneal contracture),
because of inadequate vascularity. It is sometimes seen with extra-articular arthrodesis, overcorrected flatfoot,
plate fixation, usually in the tibia. Comminuted non-union is osteochondral dystrophy, infection, and N/M disease.
the presence of one or more fragments that become necrotic, Plain film analysis of coalitions is cheap and able to identify
the callus fails, and any involved fixation may break from most symptomatic coalitions.
stress. Defect non-union is the loss of a devitalized fragment IPJ coalition can be viewed on AP projection.
of cortical bone that leaves a dead space within the bone Synphalangism is a congenital fusion of the IPJs.
which cannot be bridged. Atrophic non-union is a long-term Intermetatarsal coalition may be viewed on AP and oblique
result of insufficient vascularity that causes fx ends to become views. Diaphyseal fusions are typically the result of trauma.
osteopenic and atrophic. Metatarsal cuneiform coalition may be viewed with AP,
Radiographic Findings of Nonunion med oblique (medial column), or lat oblique (lateral column.)
Sclerosis of the fracture ends, failure of changes of healing, Navicular cuneiform coalition may be viewed with the AP
progressive bowing, increased bone atrophy above and below and medial oblique projections.
fx site, excessive callus formation, and absence of remodeling. Navicular cuboid coalition may be viwed w/ AP or oblique.
Bone scans show up “hot” in non-union; increased uptake at Calcaneocuboid coalition may be viewed on lateral or lateral
the fracture ends may be indicative of pseudoarthrosis oblique views (typically it is osseous and easy to pick up.)
formation. Talonavicular coalition can be viewed on AP and medial
Pseudoarthrosis oblique. AP shows a “putter sign” of the fusion.
Calcaneonavicular coalition can be viewed on lateral and Conclusion – correlate coalitions w/ pts age. Be suspicious of
lateral obliqe, and shows an “anteater sign” on lateral. These changes in plain films. Consider advanced imaging to
fusions are more commonly cartilaginous or fibrous in nature. investigate further. (Special views, CT, MRI.)
STJ coalition is the most common tarsal fusion, and usually is
the middle facet (the posterior facet is least common.) Fusions
of the sustentaculum tali or posterior process are also possible
(though not common.) Anterior facet coalitions can be seen
on lateral oblique isherwood projections but are most
commonly dx though lateral CT. Middle and posterior
facets are viewed on harris and beath axial projections (30, 35,
40, and 45°) or broden views. The posterior and middle facets
should be parallel to one another, and the posterior facet
should be about 2/3 the width of the calcaneus. Posterior
fusion may be secondary to trauma involving the os trigonum.
(Achilles pain, end ROM plantarflexion, deep ankle pain.)
Radiographic Features of STJ coalition (lateral projection) ARTHRIDITIES
Talar beaking Inflammatory arthridities are RA, erosive arthritis, psoriatic
Posteior TC joint space narrowing arthritis, reiter’s disease, ankylosing spondylitis, and
Rounding of lateral process of the talus enteropathic arthritis.
Obscured middle facet Non-Inflammatory arthritis is degenerative joint disease.
“Halo” effect (Wait a minute – doesn’t arthritis mean joint inflammation?)
Do not confuse talar beaking w/ dorsal hyperostosis, which is Metabolic arthritis is gout and CPPD disease.
caused by pathomechanics. Talar beaking occurs at the Neuropathic arthritis is neuropathic joint disease.
distalmost aspect of the talar neck, near the TN joint. It is Miscellaneous arthridities are DISH, PHO, and pigmented
caused by stress on the talonavicular ligament and nodular synovitis.
impingement of the navicular on DF. The halo sign is a subtle
finding, which is a ring of trabeculae that form around the PSORIATIC ARTHRITIS
coalition secondary to altered compressive forces. Seen in 7-15% of pts w/ psoriasis (80% if pt has nail changes.)
Computerized Tomography is the modality of choice for Typically affects 20-50 y/o, M:F equal. HLA-B27 frequently
evaluation of coalitions (b/c of cortical definition.) It allows positive, particularly w/ SI involvement. Distribution is
planar analysis which may be used to determine the extent of asymmetrical and is most common in the DIPJs. Often
coalition and change to surrounding osseous structures. confused w/ RA (for some reason.)
Nuclear Imaging is not very useful for the diagnosis of Classic radiographic features
coalition. Increased uptake is seen adjacent to areas fusing, Joint margin erosions working in to the center (similar to RA)
and decreased uptake in already fused areas. – eventually leads to “pencil in cup” appearance
MRI allows planar and oblique analysis to more fully explore Increased synovial fluid w/ increased intracapsular pressure
the nature of a coalition. T2 weighted images are particularly Apparent wide joint space (due to erosions)
useful to note presence or absence of synovial fluid in an area. Acroosteolysis – resorbtion of the distal phalangeal tuft
Syndromes associated with coalitions may aid in the Sausage digits
diagnosis of a bony union, and vice versa. Common coalitions Abundant periosteal activity (resulting in “whiskering”)
typically are axial, i.e. distal to proximal fusions, whereas Ivory Phalanx – due to abundant endosteal activity
syndromic coalitions tend to be medial to lateral in position. Osteopenia secondary to reduced activity
Apert’s Syndrome results in massive tarsal synostoses, as Main-en-lorngette (telescoping) – long standing disease
well as cranial synostoses and midfacial hypoplasia (“mouse” process resulting in collapse of diaphyses on themselves.
facies). The distal phalanx of the hallux and pollux are broad. Posterior/Inferior calcaneus hyperostosis (not heel spurs.)
Feet tend to have valgus attitude. Footwear is a problem
Nievergelt-Perlman Syndrome typically has synphalangism REITER’S DISEASE
and carpal fusion, moreso in the hands than feet. This Classic clinical triad – conjunctivitis, urethritis, arthritis.
syndrome may also present with an atypical clubfoot and Also 4th – derm lesions (keratoderma blenorrhagicum)
tarsal fusions, which causes a ball-and-socket type of ankle Usually preceded by diarrhea.
joint. Other findings include congenital dislocation of the Typically males, 18-40 y/o. HLA-B27 positive almost always.
radial head and conduction deafness due to ear ossicle fusion. Asymmetric distribution, primarily lower extremity.
Phocomelia is defective development of the arms or legs, Attributed to chlamydial infection (endemic) or dysentery
resulting in “flipper” extremities. Hemimelia is (epidemic) which are the two main types of Reiter’s.
underdevelopment of a specific extremity, usually a below- Epidemic form may affect women and children as well.
knee deformity. These conditions cause unusual fusions. Arthritis long-term symptom; conjunctivitis/urethritis resolves
Tx of coalition includes immobilization and supportive in weeks. Arthritic changes may also become chronic.
therapy, orthotics, NSAIDs for pain, and possible surgical Acute Stage - weight-bearing joints are more commonly
intervention (resection or arthrodesis.) affected. In the acute stage there is peri-articular ST edema,
deossification of opposing articular structures, Achilles
inflammation/widening, and periosteal reaction (metatarsal crystals are weakly positive birefringent and simulate gout
metaphyses, phalangeal diaphyses, inferior surface of the attacks when precipitated in joint spaces. The typical pt is
calcaneus.) Retrocalcaneal bursitis is also common. over 30 y/o (usually ~60) and there is no gender predilection.
Infracalcaneal exostoses (poorly defined or “fluffy”) form The problem is associated with hyperparathyroidism,
bilaterally and cause heel pain. pseudogout, acromegaly, DJD, and DM. The typically
Chronic stage – periarticular deossification, small marginal affected joint is the knee, where the menisci as well as the
erosions, symmetrical loss of joint space, ankylosis. articular cartilage may calcify as a result. It also can be seen
Specific findings – heel spurs in young men, Achilles edema, in the wrist, hand, ankle, symphysis pubis, and elbow.
small joint space periosteal reactions, primarily foot s/sx. True chondrocalcification is sometimes seen after trauma or
with hyperparathyroidism.
ANKYLOSING SPONDYLITIS
Affects pelvic and spinal joints, ligaments, and tendons. DEGENERATIVE JOINT DISEASE
Affects 15-25 y/o, usually males. Almost always HLA-B27 Also called osteoarthritis, DJD is a local, mechanically
positive. Characterized by lower back pain due to arthritis at caused degeneration of joint function that occurs in
the sacroiliac joint, bony proliferation at enthesiopathies, conjunction with age and trauma, resulting in degradation of
spinal osteophyte formation, and lateral syndesmophytes. the articular cartilage. Primary DJD is the most common form
and is due to aging. Secondary DJD is early onset due to
ENTEROPATHIC ARTHROPATHY trauma or injury to the joint. Joint space narrowing is
Joint changes secondary to GI disease. Seen in young adults, asymmetric in DJD, the subchondral bone exhibits
w/ malaise, anorexia, wt. loss and arthritis. Typically eburnation (pathologic sclerosis), the articular surface
sacroiliac, bilateral periostitis. X-ray findings are nonspecific. becomes broad and flat, and osteophytes form at joint
margins, often breaking off to become joint mice within the
GOUTY ARTHRITIS articular space. Osteophytes typically bend towards the joint
Gout is the result of an inborn error of purine metabolism. It space, which causes locking of the joint in areas where there
typically affects men age 40-50 y/o, and is characterized by are osteophytes on either side of the articulation. Pseudocysts
elevated serum uric acid and negatively birefringent crystals in may also form in the subchondral bone in areas where the
the synovial fluid. The most commonly affected joint is the 1st cartilage is completely worn away. It is important to note that
MPJ due to relative avascularity and lower temperature. the disgnosis of hallux rigidus and limitus, which are seen in
Women only get gout after menopause. Characteristic of gout patients with DJD of the 1st MPJ, cannot be diagnosed
is extreme paroxysmal pain in the middle of the night. radiographically and are purely clinical diagnoses.
Primary gout is hyperuricemia due to over-production of uric Additionally, the hands of patients with DJD clinically may
acid or under-excretion of it by the kidneys. Secondary gout present with enlarged IPJs which are called bouchard’s nodes
is due to medications (particularly HCTZ) and (PIPJ) or heberden’s nodes (DIPJ) that are simply the result
hyperparathyroidism. Urate deposits in relatively avascular of extensive osteophytosis in long-standing disease.
tissues like cartilage, synovial tissue, ligaments, bursae, and Erosive osteoarthritis is a variant of DJD which
subQ tissue. Hyperuricemia may never become symptomatic, affects primarily females aged 40-50 y/o. Clinically an
and in fact may be reduced during an acute phase attack. A 24 increased ESR may be seen because there is an inflammatory
hour urine collection is needed to diagnose accurately. component to the erosive component. The presentation is
X-ray findings of gouty arthritis only occur after several symmetrical and bilateral, and most commonly affects the IPJs
attacks. Thus radiographs in an early attack function mainly of the hands. Radiographically erosive osteoarthritis appears
to r/o other pathologies (septic arthritis.) There is peri- like DJD except that the erosions are symmetric and take on
articular swelling of the joint margins, erosions of the joint the characteristic gull wing appearance that is specific to EO.
margins, punched-out lesions resembling RA, and complete
lysis of bone in the acute stages. Large tophi may form at RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS
joint margins and produce “rat bite” erosions peri-articularly RA is an inflammatory seropositive joint disease affecting
that leave overhanging shelves of bone called martel’s sign. primarily females between the ages of 20-40 y/o, but affect
This is not seen for 5-10 years after the attack and merely men and women equally beyond the age of 40. 70% of pts w/
signifies that a pt has had gout in the past. Tophus formation RA are seropositive for rheumatoid factor. The small joints of
can occur in the absence of an acute gout attack, and the hands and feet, and articulations of the spine are typically
subsequent erosions can cause subQ calcification and affected. Early presentation in the foot can easily be mistaken
pathological fxs. The joint space is preserved in gouty for gout – most commonly small, C-shaped erosions appear at
arthritis. DJD may accompany the process, and the joint may the base of the proximal phalanges. Radiographic changes are
be somewhat narrowed due to subchondral cyst formation, but seen in 65% of pts who have had some disease process for at
is otherwise unaffected. Metastatic tumors of bone are an least 3 months (85% for >6 mos.) However, no clinical s/sx
important d/dx to r/o when considering asymptomatic gout. may appear until the disease has been present for 3 years.
Early radiographic findings in RA include peri-
CHONDROCALCINOSIS articular edema that is fusiform in shape around the joint,
Pseudogout, or calcium pyrophosphate dihydranate disease, is typically in IPJs and MPJs. Inflammation of the synovium
a symptom similar in presentation to gout that causes the creates pannus which results in bone deossification peri-
radiographic finding known as chondrocalcinosis. CPPD articularly, which progressively extends proximally over time.
Secondary trabeculae are resorbed while primary trabeculae DISH is a disorder of ligamentous ossification and
are enhanced. Fibular deviation of the digits occurs calcification that affects the spinal and extra-spinal
secondary to bony deossification that destroys the medial articulations. Typically it affects males over 50 y/o. It is
collateral ligaments of the MPJs (except on the 5th MPJ.) associatied (20%) w/ DM. 40% are HLA-B8 positive. All
Early on the joint space becomes noticeably widened as parts of the spine, particularly the SI joint, are affected.
effusion and pannus formation characterize the disease Radiographically flowing hyperostosis is seen over 4
process, and often this is the only presenting sign in consecutive vertebral bodies, usually in the area of the anterior
undiagnosed RA. Joint space changes are most easily seen in longitudinal ligament. In any case, the disc is preserved,
the ankle joint radiographically. Near the joint periosteum differentiating this process from syndesmoses seen in
may become irritated and periosteal elevation in the ankylosing spondylitis. Extra-spinal presentations may be at
epiphyseal/metaphyseal region is seen. This creates any enthesis, producing whiskering at the bony attachment and
lamellations which enlarge the bone near the articulation. ossification of the tendon or ligament while preserving the
Entheses and bursae near the joint may also become inflamed joint space.
and enlarge. Localized bony erosions occur near the joint due
to herniation of the pannus through capsule, producing an area PULMONARY HYPERTROPHIC OSTEOARTHROPATHY (PHO)
of radiolucency with poorly defined borders. Erosions seen en PHO is a disease caused by bronchogenic carcinoma that is
face may appear completely within the bone, while laterally described by the triad of digital clubbing, symmetric
they may have a dot-dash appearance. Medial-plantar arthritis, and linear periostitis. It typically affects males 40-
erosions of metatarsal heads 1-4 are most common. Later 60 y/o. The arthritis in this process, like many seronegative
symmetrical joint narrowing is seen, particularly in the IP and diseases, is nondescript in its clinical and lab findings. The
TN joints (but never the CC joint.) arthritis is specific to the extremities only. Periostitis in long
RA-induced subluxations of MPJs and IPJs following bones occurs in the metaphseal/diaphyseal region, appearing
ligamentous involvement cause the characteristic swan-neck as a “double strip sign” on bone scans (dual cortices.)
(like mallet-toe) and boutonneire (like HDS) deformities. PIGMENTED VILLONODULAR SYNOVITIS
These deformities are also seen in SLE and post-rheumatic This disorder is a proliferative pathology of joints that does
fever (jacoud’s) arthritis. Other deformities seen in RA not produce arthritis, but rather a mass within a joint or tendon
include main-en lorgnette deformity (“opera-glass hand”) sheath which may affect the joints secondarily. Typically it
that is also seen in psoriatic arthritis. affects young males. Joint involvement is asymmetric.
Late radiographic findings in RA have obviously Radiographically there is a soft-tissue mass evident with
no diagnostic value, but are used to track the progression of localized bony erosions that have well-defined sclerotic
the disease. Characteristic features include subluxation and borders. Calcification is unusual.
dislocation of the joints, ulnar deviation of the digits,
destruction of joint space, and finally bony fusion and SYSTEMIC LUPUS ERYTHEMATOSUS
ankylosis of the joints altogether. Pathological fxs secondary SLE is a connective tissue disorder involving nearly every
to osteopenia may be seen. Overall, the MPJs are most organ system in the body. It is most common in females 20-
severely affected in RA, with the IPJs of the 1st and 5th digits a 40 y/o, and is characterized by elevated ESR and ANA titer
close second in frequency. levels. Radiographic features are most readily assessed in the
hands, and are characterized by reversible subluxation,
NEUROPATHIC JOINT DISEASE dislocation, and varied deformity. Calcification and atrophy
More commonly known as charcot foot, neuropathic joint can occur secondary to deformity. Most radiographic findings
disease is a destructive disease that occurs secondary to loss of are non-specific and there is no articular degeneration.
proprioception, seen in DM (5%) and syphilitics (20%.)
Clinically there is no protective sensation; instability and SCLERODERMA
crepitation are present in the joint, and neurologically the pt Scleroderma is a connective tissue disease that also involves
suffers from ataxia and loss of DTRs. Besides the more many organ systems and affects females predominantly (30-60
common pathology, neuropathic joint disease can occur y/o.) Radiographic changes in scleroderma are most readily
iatrogenically secondary to administration of indocin or appreciated in the CREST syndrome, in which soft tissue
steroids over long periods of time (notable because of the tx calcification and acro-osteolysis may be seen. (r/o psoriasis)
protocols for RA and gout recommend this.) The hypertrophic
form of the disease affects large, WB joints, while the
hypotrophic (atrophic) form affects NWB joints. Clinically
both undergo 3 stages; fragmentation, coalescence, and
reconstruction. Radiographically the hypotrophic form is
characterized by bone resorption, diabetic osteolysis, and a
“licked candy stick” appearance. The hypertrophic form is
characterized by the six D’s: joint distension, density
increase, debris production, dislocation, disorganization, and
destruction.
AP ANGLES
Lesser Tarsal Angle = GTA + LTA
Metatarsus Angle = LTA + MTA
Used to evaluate for metatarsus adductus
Digitus Angle = DA + MTA of measured digit
Forefoot Angle = GTA + MTA
Used to evaluate metatarsus adductus in peds
Talo-Calcaneal Angle = collum tali + collum calcanei axes
Used to evaluate pronation/supination
Cuneo-Metatarsal Angle = MTA(1-3) + long axis of
proximal cuneiform
Used to evaluate hypermobility, lisfranc’s injury
Calcaneocuboid Angle = Collum calcanei axis + line CD of
LTA
Used to evaluate lateral column integrity
Talometatarsal Angle = column tali axis + 1st MTA
Called Simmons Angle on AP
Used to evaluate pronation/supination
Intermetatarsal (IM) Angle = 1st MTA + 2nd MTA
Used to evaluate bunion deformity
Hallux Abductus (HA) Angle = hallux axis + 1st MTA
Used to evaluate bunion deformity
THE 5 STEP APPROACH TO PLAIN FILM ANALYSIS Hallux Interphalangeus Angle = hallux axis + bisection of
STEP 5: BIOMECHANICAL EVALUATION distal phalanx of the hallux
The biomechanical evaluation of radiographs is used for pre- Metatarsal Break Angle = line between center of 1st and 2nd
op planning and post-op assessment of correction as well as metatarsal heads + line between center of 2nd and 5th
for the evaluation of orthopedic pathology. Biomechanical metatarsal heads.
readings are most sensitive to positioning errors, and so great Tibial Sesamoid Position
care must be taken to ensure proper positioning in patients 1 = Tibial sesamoid medially clear of 1st MTA
needing a biomechanical evaluation. 2 = Tibial sesamoid laterally abuts 1st MTA
AXES 3 = Tibial sesamoid laterally overlaps 1st MTA
Greater Tarsal Axis (GTA) 4 = Tibial sesamoid bisected by 1st MTA
Line drawn parallel to the distolateral border of the calcaneus, 5 = Tibial sesamoid medially overlaps 1st MTA
most easily identifiable on AP radiograph. 6 = Tibial sesamoid medially abuts 1st MTA
Lesser Tarsal Axis (LTA) 7 = Tibial sesamoid medially clear of 1st MTA
Point A is placed on the distomedial aspect of the medial Proximal Articular Set Angle (PASA) = line btw medial and
cuneiform. Point B is placed at the medial proximal aspect of lateral borders of metatarsal head articulation + line
the navicular articular surface. Point C is placed at the perpendicular to MTA.
proximal lateral aspect of the cuboid and point D at the distal Distal Articular Set Angle (DASA) = line btw medial and
lateral aspect of the cuboid. The midline between points A & lateral borders of proximal phalanx MPJ articulation + line
B and C & D are found and a line drawn between them. The perpendicular to digital axis.
line perpendicular to this is the lesser tarsal axis.
Metatarsal Axis (MTA) LATERAL ANGLES
Line drawn through the midpoint of the shaft of the 2nd Talar Declination Angle = collum tali axis + ground
metatarsal. (Or another metatarsal if specified.) Calcaneal Inclination Angle = calcaneal pitch axis + ground
Digital Axis (DA) Talocalcaneal Angle = collum tali + calcaneal pitch axes
Line drawn down the midpoint of the shaft of the digit in Talonavicular Angle = collum tali + bisection of navicular
question. Used to evaluate for metatarsal breaks
Collum Tali Axis 1st Metatarsal Declination Angle = 1st MTA + ground
Line drawn down the bisection of the talar neck. Talometatarsal Angle = column tali axis + 1st MTA
Collum Calcanei Axis Called Meary’s Angle on lateral projection
Line drawn down the bisection of the distal 1/3 of the Hallux Dorsiflexion Angle = 1st MTA + hallux axis
calcaneus. Cyma Line = position of the talonavicular joint with respect
Hallux Axis to the calcaneo-cuboid joint on lateral projection.
Line drawn down bisection of the shaft of the proximal
phalanx of the hallux. Radiographic Evaluation of Supination
Calcaneal Pitch Axis Talar declination angle decreases
Calcaneal inclination angle increases extent of the cloaca and its sinus tract to the outside of the
Talocalcaneal angle decreases body can be appreciated through the use of a sonogram,
Cyma line posteriorly displaced which is simply radiographic contrast media injected into the
Subtalar joint/sinus tarsi accentuated (bullet hole sinus tarsi) sinus tract that can then be visualized radiographically.
Marjolin’s ulcer is a malignant degeneration of soft tissue
Radiographic Evaluation of Pronation within the cloaca to a squamous cell carcinoma. This occurs
Talar declination angle increases secondary to acidic pus and exudate from the cloaca irritating
Calcaneal inclination angle decreases the tissues of the sinus tract. The infection must be very
Talocalcaneal angle increases chronic (up to 20-30 years) for a marjolin’s ulcer to form, and
Cyma line anteriorly deviated it is only seen in long-standing osteomyelitis. Nevertheless, it
Pseudo-sinus tarsi seen (posterior facet of STJ; real sinus should be kept in mind when treating a patient with history of
tarsi is obscured.) bone infection.
Brodie’s abscess is a localized suppurative infection of bone
Metatarsus Primus Elevatus (MPE) which is successfully walled off and is sterile. A brodie’s
Defined radiographically as an elevation of the 1st metatarsal abscess is usually an incidental finding and typically is seen in
with respect to the 2nd metatarsal. Implied in the development children after osteomyelitis has resolved. A similar finding is
of 1st MPJ OA, sub 2nd metatarsalgia. an abscess that still contains bacteria, which can serve as a
reservoir for reinfection in the future (however, brodie’s
Total Adductory Angle (TAA) abscesses are sterile only.)
Sum of the IM angle + the metatarsus adductus angle, used in Routes of infection in osteomyelitis include hematogenous
the evaluation of bunion deformities and in surgical planning. spread (most common in children), direct
A TAA >30° should warrant consideration of a proximal implantation/inoculation, direct extension, and post-op
osteotomy in surgical bunion correction. infection. The most common infecting organism in children is
H. Influenzae, although it is now much less common than it
Pre-Op Biomechanical Assessment once was. In adults staph aureus is by far the most common
IM angle HA TAA infecting organism for all types of osteo (except plantar
PASA DASA Hallux Interphalangeus puncture wounds.)
Metatarsus angle MPE Sesamoid position Hematogenous osteomyelitis, being primarily a disorder of
Joint status Bone density 1st MT protrusion children, is most commonly seen in the metaphysis of long
RADIOGRAPHIC INTERPRETATION OF INFECTION bones. Bone destruction begins internally, then weakens the
OSTEOMYELITIS cortex, causes periosteal reaction, and finally breaks through
Osteomyelitis is the infection of bone, most commonly by to soft tissue. Being confined within bone initially, the route
bacteria but also possibly by fungus, virus, or parasites. The of pus evacuation can be appreciated on X-ray. Initially pus
anatomy of vascular structures is most important when fills the medullary space for some distance before pushing
considering osteo, and the vascular anatomy of bone changes through the periosteum. The codman’s triangle is a
with age. In infants (0-1 y/o), blood vessels pass through the triangular space of pus bounded on one side by infected cortex
epiphyseal plate in tubular bones. Because of this, it is more and on another by elevated periosteum which attempts to lie
common to see infection in the epiphysis because vascular down new bone. Notation of this on X-ray is usually
channels here are more prominent than at a later age. In diagnostic for hematogenous osteomyleitis.
children (1-16 y/o), metaphyseal vessels end at the epiphyseal Direct implantation osteomyelitis typically occurs as a result
plate, creating loops and blind-ended sacs in the metaphyseal of puncture wounds, human or animal bites, or open fracture.
vasculature. The tortuosity of these vessels means that Staph aureus is the most common infecting organism in all
metaphyseal infection is much more common in children. The cases except those of plantar puncture wounds that pass
adult pattern begins around age 16. As the physis closes, the through a shoe, in which case the infecting organism is
metaphyseal vessels can begin to cross back into the epiphysis pseudomonas. E.Coli is sometimes implicated in direct osteo
again and so infection may be located anywhere in the bone. as well. In direct implantation there is no particular order to
Sequestrum is an infected area that is dead due to the infectious process, as the traumatic injury has already
cortical and medullary infarcts. Small sequestra can be disrupted the cortex.
eventually resorbed by osteoclasts, while large sequestra are Direct extension osteomyelitis is spread of infection to bone
walled off by the body and then expelled gradually through a from a nearby soft tissue infection or ulcer. Nail infections
sinus tract. Involucrum is periosteal new bone formation that and infected ulcers are the most common causative factor in
occurs in response to bone infection, and represents the body’s this type. The order of infection tends to follow the opposite
attempt to prevent the spread of bacteria. Both sequestrum order as hematogenous osteomyelitis.
and involucrum are most commonly seen in hematogenous Post-op infections may be due to staph aureus (again most
osteomyelitis. Cloaca is a defect in the involucrum that common) or pseudomonas. This type of osteo is most
allows for drainage products of the infection to be expelled commonly seen in the hip or knee following arthroplasty,
from the infected area. The cloaca commonly receives small especially when hardware is installed. Loosening of fixation
bits of sequestrum that may have been broken down in the with obvious radiolucency about the device indicates infection
disease process. Exudate from the cloaca with involucrum of this type and surgical removal is indicated.
will feel like sand between the fingers when handled. The
X-RAY FEATURES OF OSTEOMYELITIS Although classically infection and inflammation about a bone
Initially, there are no osseous findings present on X-ray – cause a bone scan to read positive in that area, an increase in
plain film findings lag clinical findings 7-10d. In vertebral vasculature to an area may increase uptake of the isotope, as
bones there may be up to a 21d lag. 30% of bone must be lost well as the articular surfaces of an inflamed joint. Thus,
before the changes can be appreciated on plain films. Initially findings which would otherwise be normal clinically may
the only evidence of infection will be soft tissue changes, show up as positive on bone scan and must be separated from
including deep ST swelling in hematogenous osteo adjacent to pathology. Distal bones seem to be more sensitive to Tc-99
the infected area. Fat planes will be elevated, displaced, or uptake, and can more easily show up hot even if only
obliterated altogether. Lines of lucency between muscles will sustaining minor trauma. Overall, Tc-99 exposes the patient
be obliterated. Infection tracks usually distal to proximal and to only a small radiation dose, and is renally excreted. For this
only rarely travels from medial to lateral (and vice versa.) reason, it is generally recommended that the patient be well-
Breakthrough to a joint space will produce swelling of the hydrated (this also aids in contrast), and care must be taken in
capsule, which in the ankle produces the classic teardrop sign individuals with renal disease, especially if they have DM.
which is also seen in hemarthrosis. Periosteal response to The half-life of Tc-99 is 6 hours. Normal areas of increased
infection occurs usually 7-10d after the initial process has uptake are the lacrimal glands, breasts, SI joint, kidneys,
begun. The pattern of reaction is lamellar and progresses to bladder, and the injection site of the isotope.
formation of an involucrum. Involucrum tends to be less Gallium-67 Citrate is another isotope that resembles the
dense than the established cortical bone, even infected. The ferric ion. It binds to iron-related plasma proteins as well as
most distal the infection is in the body, the most subtle the organelles of leukocytes. This makes Ga-67 useful for
periosteal response will be. Resolution of the infection will visualizing the peripheral tissues because it marks the areas
leave the involucrum to be remodeled and resorbed, however where leukocytes have localized. Ga-67 is also excreted
it may sometimes persist after the healing process is finished. renally, and has a long (78 hour) half-life.
Bony destruction appears “moth eaten” as there is a focal loss Podiatric indications for bone scan
of bone density in the medullary bone, with sequestrum seen Osteomyelitis
3-6 wks after the infectious process has begun. Kissing Trauma
lesions are opposed lesions seen across articular surfaces Inflammatory Arthritis
when the joint has been involved. Often these changes are Stress Fracture (if >7 hours)
subtle and may not be noticed unless serial radiographs are Tumors
taken and analyzed. In slow-growing, rarer cases like fungal Non-specific pain (to check for occult causes)
infections, the bone may be able to mount a more effective Combined use of bone scan isotopes can be used to
response against the causative agent, and sclerosis due to differentiate the infectious process. Soft tissue infection can
endosteal proliferation may be seen. This type of infection- be distinguished from osteomyelitis by decreased uptake in
caused sclerosis is called sclerosing osteitis of Garre. the third phase of the Tc-99 scan, and will be strongly positive
in Ga-67, whereas osteomyelitis shows up hot in all three Tc-
Radiographic Signs Overview 99 phases and is cold in Ga-67 scanning. When performed
Early Signs together, the Tc-99 test is done first because of the shorter
Latent Period (10d extremities, 21d spine) half-life. Gallium is typically used to clarify the issue of
Soft Tissue – fat plane elevation/displacement/obliteration, infection site, but is not as effective at determining the course
increased ST density of an infection. The practice of using a gallium scan to
Bone – motheaten cortical/medullary destruction, periosteal determine when the infectious process (and thus the treatment
new bone formation (involucrum, codman’s triangle) regimen) is finished has been thoroughly disproved.
Late Signs Indium-111 isotope is a rarer, more specialized bone scan
Soft Tissue – draining sinus/cloaca, debris, marjolin’s ulcer that tags WBCs in drawn blood with the isotope and re-injects
Bone – cortical destruction, involucrum, sequestrum, sclerosis them into the bloodstream. I-111 is useful in distinguishing
Joint – loss of joint space, ankylosis, kissing lesions. osteomyelitis from neurotrophic joint changes in the diabetic
individual, which is normally a very difficult clinical
Salmonella Osteomyelitis is a peculiar type of osteo that is diagnosis. A negative I-111 scan would tend to r/o osteo and
sometimes seen in patients with sickle cell anemia. If a sickle provide for a positive diagnosis of charcot, while the reverse is
cell crisis occurs in the intestinal vasculature, small infarcts also true.
can allow salmonella bacteria to travel from the gut to the
bloodstream where they can seed in bones across the body. COMPUTERIZED TOMOGRAPHY FOR INFECTION
The osteomyelitis associated with this bacterial seeding is CT allows planar analysis of anatomy to determine the extent
unique in that it predilects the diaphysis of long bones. of infection. Although sensitive for soft tissue infections, CT
tends to overestimate their involvement, and is much more
BONE SCANS FOR INFECTION reliable at determining bony involvement. Very subtle cortical
Technetium-99m Phosphate is the prototypical bone scan, or periosteal changes may be appreciated on a CT scan.
and is the most commonly used in clinical practice. It reacts
with calcium hydroxyapatite to form insoluble salts which MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING FOR INFECTION
precipitate in areas of bony turnover. This makes the Tc-99 In contrast to CT, MRI is much better at evaluating soft tissue
scan ideal for infectious and/or traumatic processes of bone. infection versus bone infection. MRI cannot distinguish
between infection in a joint space and effusion in a joint, appearance that is almost always malignant. Codman’s
however, and this is a major limitation if joint involvement is triangle is similarly a sign of malignancy in tumors.
suspected. The infected area appears dull on a T1WI, and 5) Tumor matrix description can help determine the tissue
more typically has greater intensity on a T2WI. type involved. Osseous lesions appear cloud-like and
amorphous with usually a “fluffy” appearance. Cartilaginous
THOUGHT PROCESS BEHIND THE RADIOLOGY OF INFECTION lesions appear punctuate w/ C-shaped lesions and numerous
From plain films the distinction must be made as to the small calcifications in the center are typical. Fibroosseous
location of an infection. If soft tissue is suspected, MRI is the lesions have a ground-glass character with no discernible
best modality. If bone is suspected, CT is the best modality. If trabeculae. No visible matrix is a pertinent negative and may
the symptomatology is diffuse, the Tc-99 and Ga-67 bone be a giant cell tumor or cyst.
scans should be considered to determine involvement. CT imaging of tumors is used to evaluate tumor matrix more
effectively and determine cortical vs medullary lesions.
BONE TUMORS AND TUMOR-LIKE LESIONS MRI of tumors in used to asses soft tissue and marrow
Evaluation of plain films – plain film analysis offers the most involvement, but does not provide much for osseous tumors.
diagnostic information for the analysis of bone lesions. Osteoid Osteoma (OO) is a fairly common tumor seen in 10-
Biopsies of bone alone do not give the pathologist enough 30 y/o. It is characterized by a visible central nidus of less
information to make a definitive diagnosis; clinical and then 1cm that is seen in the tibia/fibula or spine (causing
radiographic evidence is needed to support what is seen under painful scoliosis.) The nidus may or may not have a central
the microscope. Some lesions also may become activated or area of calcification. Pain is felt at night and is described as a
react against an invasive biopsy technique. dull pain which responds to ASA. It may take 6-24 months to
Basic approach to solitary bone lesions make a Dx. If near a joint the OO can cause joint effusion and
1) History – age, sex, and symptoms. Age of the patient is pain that can look clinically like JRA. The main D/dx is stress
important because many tumors predilect younger or older fx. MRI is frequently misleading in dx. Tx is sx or
patients. Ewing’s sarcoma, chondrosarcoma, and unicameral radiofrequency ablation (90° C.)
bone cysts are almost exclusively tumors of children, while Osteoblastoma (OB) is a very large osteoid osteoma that is
metastatic tumors and multiple myeloma are only seen in older also very rare. It is seen in the same populations and in the
individuals. Osteosarcoma tends to affect younger patients, same locations but with milder symptoms (despite greater
chondrosarcoma the middle aged, and fibrosarcoma the size.) The nidus may be greater than 1.5cm and can have
elderly. The tumors paraosteal osteosarcoma, giant cell tumor, multiple internal calcifications. It causes less reactive
and aneurismal bone cyst are the only tumors seen more sclerosis than OO.
commonly in women than men. Pain is the most common Osteosarcoma (OS) has several variants. Paraosteal and
symptom in sarcomas. The character, onset, frequency, and medullary (low grade) have good prognoses. Pagetoid and
aggravating factors should be assessed. radiation-induced OS has a poor prognosis. Telangectatic OS
2) Location should be described in relation to the position in causes many complications, but often responds to chemotx.
long bones, cortical or medullary, and eccentric or centrally Classically, OS is a medullary tumor seen in the metaphysis of
located. Epiphyseal lesions include chondroblastoma, intra- 10-25 y/o. Most are seen in the femur near the knee.
osseous ganglion, and clear cell chondrosarcoma. Physeal Diagnosis is by pain, X-ray, and elevated levels of alk phos.
lesions are only seen in giant cell tumors. Metaphyseal Radiographically it appears cloud-like with sunburst periosteal
lesions include metastatic tumors, osteomyelitis, reaction and codman’s triangle. Skip lesions or lung
osteo/chondro/fibrosarcoma, malignant fibrous histiocytoma, metastasis indicates a poor prognosis. Paraosteal
non-ossifying fibroma, and unicameral bone cysts. osteosarcoma (PaOS) is seen 5-10 years later then medullary
Diaphyseal lesions include lymphoma, eosinophilic OS and is more common in females. It causes dull aching
granuloma, metastasis, multiple myeloma, and ewing’s pain and carries a better prognosis than OS, unless it extends
sarcoma. Peripheral/cortical lesions include into the medulla. Periosteal osteosarcoma (PeOS) is a rarer
osteochondroma and para or periosteal osteosarcoma. lesion that has similar age, location, and s/sx as medullary, but
3) Rate of growth is characterized by the borders of the is located in the diaphysis and carries a better prognosis.
lesion. Permeative lesions have a wide zone of transition and Paget’s Disease (P) is thought to have a viral cause, and is
are typical of fast-growing lesions, typically malignant tumors seen primarily in English-speaking countries. Affected bones
and osteomyelitis. Moth-eaten lesions have intermediate have a thick cortex and accentuated trabeculae. Paget’s
zones of transition with irregular borders. They may be predisposes an individual to OS, CS, FS, GCT, and MFH.
malignant or benign tumors. Geographic lesions have well- Enchondroma (E) is a benign, intramedullary, cartilaginous
defined sclerotic borders with a short zone of transition. This lesion. It occurs in any age and is characteristically painless.
finding is typical of benign tumors and cysts (although low- It is normally seen in hands and feet and may cause
grade malignancies may also sometimes look like this.) pathological fx. The lesions appear geographic with central
4) Periosteal reaction appearance may give clues to the type calcifications, possibly with endosteal scalloping or
of tumor. Single-layer periosteal reaction is typical of expansion. Ollier’s disease is the condition of multiple
osteomyelitis, benign tumors, and lower-grade malignant enchondromatosis that may predispose to malignancy. It is
tumors. Onion-skinning is typical of repetitive insults to the more common in children and causes growth disturbances.
periosteum, seen in osteosarcoma and ewing’s. Maffucci’s disease is hereditary multiple enchondromatosis
Perpendicular periosteal reaction has a spiulcated, sunburst
with soft tissue telangiectasias as well. Prognosis for Osteofibrous Dysplasia is an intracortical FD of the tibia
Maffucci’s is very poor, with almost 100% malignancy. (usually) seen in childhood. It is very uncommon. It is
Juxtacotical Chondroma (JC) is a solitary cartilaginous usually painless and has the characteristic ground glass
tumor that causes erosion of surrounding bone. The average appearance. It is associated with adamantinomas.
age is 22 y/o and is seen most commonly in long bones of the Fibrosarcoma (FS) occurs in the 3rd to 6th decades of life and
hands and feet. The tumor is symptomatic, causing pain and present as an aggressive lytic lesion with no matrix and no
swelling in the area. In 50% of cases ST calcification may periosteal reaction. Its location is generally metaphyseal. It
also be seen, with erosion and “saucerization” of the bone. may also arise secondary to other lesions as well (including
Chondroblastoma (CB) is a benign cartilaginous tumor of infarcts.)
the epiphysis. It is seen in individuals with open growth plates Giant Cell Tumor (GCT) is a locally aggressive lesion that is
(teenaged) and is geographic in nature. Calcifications are seen usually benign but not always. It presents as a lytic lesion in
in 50% of cases. Pain and joint effusion may cause CB to be the metaphysis extending into the epiphysis (and is the only
mistaken for arthritis, much like OO. one to occur in this area.) There is no matrix associated with
Chondromyxoid Fibroma (CF) is a very rare tumor that is GCT. The lesion may destroy the cortex and invade the ST as
metaphyseal, geographic, and multiloculated. It occurs in all well. It most commonly occurs in the femur, radius, humerus,
ages and is seen in the LE. Pain is “vague.” It may extend all and sacrum. It is slightly more common in females. S/sx
the way to the physis. include pain. The Giant cell reparative granuloma is a
Osteochondroma (OC) is a cartilage-capped exostosis of cousin of GCT presenting with lucent lesions of the hands and
bone. It is common in the general population, and is usually feet seen in children. It typically does not break through the
discovered in adolescence as a painless, hard “lump.” The periosteum. It may mimic and be hard to distinguish from
location is usually metaphyseal, and the exostoses brown’s tumors, even on histology. It is also called a solid
characteristically point away from the joint. Malignant aneurismal bone cyst.
transformation may have occurred if painful, greater then 2cm, Unicameral Bone Cyst (UBC) is a very common benign
or growing after skeletal maturity. Multiple hereditary lesion often seen in the distal calcaneus. It is medullary and
osteochondromatosis (MHO) is a multiple variant that is fluid-filled, and may be an incidental finding (although it can
autosomal dominant. It frequently causes growth disturbances cause pathological fx.) It is geographic, with sclerotic
in children and carries a 20% chance of malignancy. borders. It typically arises at a growth plate, migrating later
Benign Perosteal Osteochondromatous Proliferation into the diaphysis with age. 90% are seen in the humerus and
(BPOP) is a very rare finding seen in adults aged 20-30 y/o. femur. The hallmark of the UBC is the fallen fragment sign
Sometimes also called “nora’s lesion,” BPOP is benign, but (piece of cortex within the center of the lesion.) Tx is
has a very high rate of recurrence if removed. observation, steroid injection, of sx bone graft packing.
Chondrosarcoma (CS) occurs de novo or secondarily from Aneurysmal Bone Cyst (ABC) is a lytic expansile lesion
conversion of a benign lesion. The average age is 40 y/o. noted for the blood-filled cavities it forms. It may arise de
Pain is the primary s/sx. Lesions are typically geographic and novo or post trauma, or may be associated with CB, GCT,
metaphyseal, with lucent centers filled with small NOF, OB, CMF, or FD. It presents with pain in the long
calcifications. Tx is w/ sx. Variants of CS include clear cell bones and axial skeleton. It is usually seen in teenagers. Its
chondrosarcoma (CCC) which is an epiphyseal lesion (looks hallmark are fluid-fluid levels of two layers seen on MRI
like CB but in older patients) and dedifferentiated representing old coagulated blood and new, unsettled blood.
chondrosarcoma in which part of the lesion is low-grade and Fluid-fluid levels are also seen in telangectatic OS, MFH, and
another part is high grade. FD.
Non-Ossifying Fibroma (NOF) and its relative the Benign Interosseous Lipoma (IL) is a benign asymptomatic lesion
Fibrocortical Defect (BFOD) differ only in their location; the that is typically an incidental finding. It is usually seen in the
NOF is medullary and the BFOD is cortical. It is most calcaneus. It can have a central area of calcification, but is
common in children, and is usually asymptomatic unless there noted for its central area of fat on CT and MRI. It is seen in
is a pathological fx. X-ray shows a sclerotic border in the the same locations as UBCs.
growth plate to the diaphysis. DO NOT BIOPSY NOFs. Intraosseous Ganglion (IG) is a benign lesion of the
With age the lesion usually regresses. Jaffe-Campanacii subcortical bone typically seen in the middle-aged. It can
syndrome is multiple NOFs with café au-lait spots. present with pain. It may resemble a subchondral cyst on x-
Fibrous Dysplasia (FD) is a benign fibroosseous lesion of ray (but in the absence of DJD). It is most commonly seen in
bone that is usually unilateral (75%) and has a geographic the medial malleolus. It may also look like GCT but with a
appearance. The hallmark radiographic feature of FD is a lobulated matrix.
ground glass matrix. Dense areas of calcification may also Ewing’s Sarcoma (ES) is a common primary bone tumor
be seen. FD presents typically with deformity and sometimes seen in children, presenting with pain, low-grade fever, wt
pain, secondary to fx. Albright’s syndrome is polyostotic FD loss, and an elevated sed rate. It is rare in AAs. It has the
with café au-lait spots and endocrine abnormalities. As appearance of a small blue-cell tumor which it shares with
opposed to Jaffe-Campanacci syndrome, where the lesions primary lymphoma and multiple myeloma. It is most common
have a smooth border, albright’s syndrome lesions have a in the lower extremities. The lesion is permeative and has no
rough border. Mazabraud’s syndrome is polyostotic FD matrix. It produces an onion-skin type periosteal reaction.
with intramuscular myxomas. The shepherd’s crook The location can be metaphyseal or metadiaphyseal, and
deformity is also a hallmark of this type of lesion. produces a soft tissue mass surrounding the lesion. A variant
of Ewing’s is primitive neuroendothelial tumor (PNET) diaphyseal region. Marked edema of the hands and feet may
which has the same appearance, prognosis, and treatment, but be seen secondary to this infection. Bone density is lost in the
is associated with a chromosome translocation. spine, flat bones, and long bones with a coarse trabecular
Primary lymphoma of Bone appears similar to ES but in a pattern. The hallmark is fish vertebrae that appears as a
much older patient. Pain is usually the presenting symptom, biconcavity of the vertebral bodies on lateral x-ray (with disc
but there are no systemic signs. space preserved.) Periostitis is also seen in the hands and feet.
Multiple Myeloma (MM) is the most common primary Bones of the hands and feet can also be infracted in children
malignancy of bone, seen in older individuals. It presents with with sickle cell – the hand and foot syndrome causes
pain, weakness, or neurological symptoms. It sometimes localized infarction leading to early closure of growth plates in
presents with a solitary bone lesion called a plasmacytoma. the affected bones. This causes periosteal new bone
On x-ray there are cookie-cutter lesions that appear osteopenic formation (appearing 1-2wks post injury) and may lead to
and without sclerosis. Bone scans and MRI are unreliable in AVN. Cortical infarcts are more common, and the femoral
dx. MM commonly has the POEMS syndrome – head is most affected. Infarcts within long bones may present
polyneuropathy, oganomegaly, endocrine abnormalities, M on x-ray as calcified fat necrosis, which may look like a tumor
proteins, and skin lesions. (fibrous dysplasia.) The bone infarcts can also make the bone
Hemangioma is a common benign or congenital lesion most prone to infection and pathological fx. Infarct of the distal
commonly seen in the skull and spine. It appears to have tibia can lead to premature closure of the epiphysis laterally,
vertical striations in the spine and radial spokes in the skull. causing a characteristic tibiotalar slant with a valgus attitude.
CT shows a polka-dot pattern. It is usually asymptomatic. Thalassemias are gene deletions of primary hemoglobin
Hemangioendothelioma is a rare lesion seen in the lower subunits, causing a microcytic hypochromic anemia.
extremities. It presents as a cortical defect similar to Radiographically they present similarly to sickle-cell anemia,
hemangioma. It is typically seen in the middle-aged. with the notable exception that infarcts are generally not seen.
Eosinophilic Granuloma (EG) is a non-infectious granuloma Trabeculae may take on a “honeycomb” pattern and long
with histiocytes and eosinophils proliferating. Most are seen bones typically take on an Erlenmeyer flask morphology.
in the skull and vertebrae, but it may also occur in the lower Secondary centers of ossification may be delayed. Iron
extremity. Langerhans Histiocytosis is unifocal EG in one Deficiency Anemia characteristically causes osteoporosis of
organ system. Hand-Schuller-Christian Disease is the hands (in severe cases) and transverse striping of the
multifocal in one organ system. Letterer-Siwe Disease is metaphyses. Radiographic changes are more readily apparent
multifocal and multisystem. The average age of EG is 15 y/o. in the pediatric population.
There is little periosteal reaction, and there may be a LIPID STORAGE DISEASES
sequestrum (especially in the skull.) The lesions may appear Gaucher’s Disease is a disorder characterized by the
punched-out. The typical presentation is with a spontaneous accumulation of cerebrosides in reticuloendothelial cells. The
compression fx. They are typically diaphyseal. Bone scans lower extremities are more commonly affected. The classic
are unreliable in dx. presentation is ischemic necrosis of the proximal femur with
Adamantinoma is a rare, locally aggressive lesion seen Erlenmeyer flask deformity.
almost exclusively in the tibia. It appears in the 3rd to 5th Niemann-Pick Disease is an inherited abnormality of
decades as an eccentric, lobulated lesion. Periostitis is rare. sphingomyelin metabolism seen most commonly in persons of
Local pain and swelling are apparent on examination. jewish descent. Radiographically a widening of the medullary
Metastatic bone tumors are the most common type of bone cavity, coarse trabecular pattern, thinned cortex, failure of
malignancy, primarily from the breast, prostate, lung, and tabulation, and loss of bone density are seen. The Erlenmeyer
kidney. Periosteal reaction is rare. Location is based on the flask deformity is also seen.
tissue type. Blow-out lesions are renal and thyroid based. Sarcoidosis is a systemic granulomatous disease involving the
Peripheral and cortical lesions are lung metastases. skin, lungs, lymph nodes, and viscera. 10% of patients have
bone involvement. Children are rarely affected.
Radiographically dx is made with CXR; in the extremities the
RADIOLOGY OF SYSTEMIC DISORDERS middle and distal phalanges can show cyst-like punched out
Changes in the trabecular pattern in bone are indicative of lesions in the cortex.
reconstructive mechanisms and may suggest systemic disease. Pancreatitis causes fat necrosis of the bone marrow (which is
Osteoporosis, osteomalacia, and hyperparathyroidism all cause also seen in cancer of the head of the pancreas.)
a generalized loss and coarsening of the trabeculae. In many Radiographically bone infarction follows the fat necrosis
cases, this can also happen with anemias, storage diseases, and stage, with calcification and ossification of the affected
neoplastic disorders as well. Etiologies of abnormal bone marrow. The long bones of the hands and feet are most
texture include generalized overactivity of cancellous bone affected.
resorption, infarction due to disruption of blood supply, and Dysbaric Osteonecrosis (Caisson disease) is a pressure-
growth retardation due to localized hypoxia (in children.) induced osteoarthopathy seen in deep-sea divers. It presents
ANEMIAS as small localized infarctions of bone due to the formation of
Anemias that affect bone density include sickle cell nitrogen bubbles within the body.
anemia, thalassemias, and iron deficiency anemia. Sickle Cell Hemophilia is a disorder of blood coagulation due to plasma
Anemia puts pts at risk for salmonella infections seeded clotting factor deficiency. Classic hemophilia (A) is due to
hematogenously, with osteomyelitis occurring in the factor VIII, Christmas disease (B) is due to factor IX. Both
are X-linked diseases. Radiographically bleeding is apparent Paget’s Disease (Osteitis Deformans) is a disease of unknown
sub-periostally, intraosseously, and intra-articularly. The etiology. It, as well as fibrous dysplasia, are known as the
chronic hemarthrosis due to joint bleeding causes destruction great masqueraders of bone disease. (Outside of bone, gout
of the hyaline cartilage secondary to lysosomal enzyme and syphilis are also known as great masqueraders.) Paget’s is
release in the breakdown of blood products. Hemophilia can normally seen in the axial skeleton, but can affect any bone.
also cause premature closure of the epiphyseal plates, causing The pelvis, femur, skull, and tibia are most common. Its
tibiotalar slant seen also in sickle cell anemia. incidence is 4-6% in individuals over 40 y/o. Deformities
Metaphyseal and Diaphyseal Infarcts are usually due to associated with Paget’s include femoral bowing (shepherd’s
occlusive vascular disease, sickle-cell anemia, caisson disease, crook), tibial bowing (sabre shin), liontiasis (lion facies), and
infiltrative/collagen diseases, infection and/or idiopathic. The pathological fracture (banana fxs.) Pseudofractures, seen
increase in bone density seen in an infarct is due to crushing of also in osteomalacia/rickets, are also known as umbua zonen
the avascular debris, calcification of fat necrosis, hyperemic and looser’s lines – they represent demineralized areas of bone
removal of viable bone surrounding, bony apposition, and that are not actually fxs, although they appear that way on x-
periosteal involucrum formation. ray. The stages of Paget’s disease are
ENDOCRINE DISORDERS 1) Destructive phase – increased osteoclastic activity and
Acromegaly/Gigantism are both disorders characterized by osteoporosis circumscripta, both difficult to dx early.
excess in growth hormone. The result is joint space 2) Combined phase – bone destruction/turnover and fibrous
narrowing, bony sclerosis, cyst formation, and osteophytes bone replacement.
similar to DJD. It usually affects the acral skeleton most. In 3) Sclerotic stage – uniformly thickened trabeculae, ivory
the foot there is seen sausage digits, enlarged sesamoids/MPJs, appearance of bone (see also psoriasis), and bone expansion.
prominent metatarsal heads, prominent tufts and bases of 4) Malignant degeneration – metaplasia to osteosarcoma (rare)
phalanges, enthesis development, and constriction of proximal Lab findings for Paget’s show elevated alk phos (x20) and
phalangeal shafts. Fat pad thickening is a radiographic hypercalcemia. UA may show urinary hydroxyproline. Bone
hallmark of acromegaly. Hypertrophy of the bases and tufts of scan shows multiple hot spots (sometimes solitary). Course is
the distal phalanges causes secondary bony fusion resulting in slow and treatement is with calcitonin and supportive therapy.
pseudoforamina formation unique to this disease. Massive Osteolysis (Disappearing bone disease) is a disorder
Hyperparathyroidism causes generalized bone resorption causing sudden resorption of large areas of bone without
subperiosteally, intracortically, endosteally, and sub- malignancy. It is associated with lymphangioma or
ligamentous. Bone sclerosis and chondrocalcinosis are also hemangioma and clinically presents with pain. X-ray findings
seen. Brown’s tumors are unique to hyperparathyroidism. show apparent disappearance of bone, (tapering off in long
Renal Osteodystrophy is a disease of chronic renal failure bones), with no periosteal reaction noted.
that causes hyperparathyroidism, rickets/osteomalacia, Diabetic Osteolysis is a disorder characterized by marked
osteoporosis, soft tissue calcification, and vascular resorption with neuropathic changes. It is seen in the absence
calcification. Osteomalacia and Rickets primarily are caused of an infectious process, although that is usually a d/dx. It
by Vitamin D disorders, and cause bowing of the tibia and may be the result of a viral infection. Radiographically a
periarticular calcification. decrease in ST density, local osteoporosis, distal resorption,
Hypoparathyroidism may be primary (deficiency or licked candy stick appearance, and apparent bone
destruction of the gland) or secondary (gland unresponsive.) “regeneration” are apparent on x-ray.
It causes spinal calcifications that appear like osteophytes (of Poliomyelitis radiographically presents with severe cavus
DISH). Pseudohypoparathyroidism is the most common deformity, severe osteoporosis, short metatarsals and
secondary disease, causing a short stature, round face, phalanges, and a ground glass appearance of medullary bone.
brachydactyly, exostoses, cone epiphyses, and wide bones. Neurofibromatosis is a hereditary disease of mesodermal
Women are more affected than men. origin causing café-au-lait spots, skin neurofibromas, bone
Hyperthyroidism is characterized by a general catabolic state deformity, and local gigantism. Bone deformities include
of the body, resulting in loss of connective tissue as well as kyphosis, bony erosion, local overgrowth, overtubulation of
increased bone turnover. Osteoporosis is a common initial long bones, pseudoarthroses, and lytic areas of bone.
finding. Other findings include accelerated skeletal
maturation and myopathy. Thyroid acropachy is a AVASCULAR NECROSIS AND
complication of hyperthyroidism that includes progressive OSTEOCHONDRITIS DESSICANS
exopthalmos, hand and foot swelling, digital clubbing, Avascular Necrosis (AVN, epiphyseal ischemic necrosis,
pretibial myxedema, and periosteal new bone formation (mid- osteonecrosis, osteochondrosis, epiphysitis, and aseptic
diaphyseal), particularly of the 1st metatarsal. The edema has necrosis) is a disruption of the vascular supply of bone leading
a nodular appearance. to the death of an osseous structure. Primary causes are
Hypothyroidism (Myxedema) is caused by a deficiency of unknown. Secondary causes can be fracture, sickle cell
TSH, thyroid hormone, or iodine. In infants the disorder is anemia, long-term corticosteroid use, and alcoholism.
called cretinism. In adults the disorder causes edema, dry Clinically, AVN is variable and relatively minor in
skin, coarse hair, lethargy, fatigue, paresthesia, and symptomatology. Pain and disability progresses as it is
bradycardia. Tarsal tunnel syndrome is also a common untreated. AVN normally lasts about 9 mos, but in some cases
finding. (legg-calve-perthes) it can last up to 8 years. Spontaneous
AVN occurs in the distal femur, femoral head, and metatarsal congenitally small navicular – an incidental finding of a very
heads. Trauma-induced AVN occurs in the talus. small navicular on x-ray may not be kohler’s. The appearance
Alcoholism-induced AVN occurs in the femoral head. should be patchy or uniform sclerosis, collapse (silver dollar
Surgery can also be a cause of AVN. sign), and fragmentation of the bone. The joint space is
The Avascular Phase of AVN is the actual loss of blood usually preserved.
supply, leading to bone death, failure of epiphyseal growth, Iselen’s Disease is a non-AVN of the fifth metatarsal base. It
minimal bony deformity, reactive hyperemia, synovial is actually a tractional apophysitis and is self-limiting.
thickening, and edema. On x-ray you see a small epiphysis, Freiberg’s Disease is a true AVN of the metatarsal heads.
normal bone density, increased joint space, capsular swelling, The second metatarsal is most commonly affected, particularly
metaphyseal osteopenia, and a widened growth plate. in pts w/ a long 2nd metatarsal. There is tenderness and pain
The Revascularization Phase sees infiltration of new blood over the affected MPJ, and the pain is exacerbated with
vessels and fragmentation of the dead parts. On x-ray you see activity. Infarction of the epiphysis leaves necrotic bone that
a sclerotic rim, new bone deposited on old bone (snow cap causes degenerative changes and cortical thickening.
sign), fracture inferior to the articular cortex (crescent sign), Adaptive changes occur on the juxta-articular surface
clefts and fragmentation, flattening of articular surfaces, a (flattening and broadening of the joint space.) Theimann’s
widened metaphysis, and “head within a head” appearance. Disease is a non-AVN of the fingers and toes that is extremely
The Repair and Remodeling Phase includes new bone rare. It occurs secondary to trauma and is attributed to
deposition replacing bone resorption. On x-ray you see multiple ossification centers in the phalanx.
reconstitution of the epiphysis and the disappearance of clefts. Sesamoid AVN is called Trevor’s (fibular) or Renandier’s
The Residual Deformity (stage 4) includes restitution of the (tibial) and occur secondary to trauma and fracture.
epiphysis, with the amount of deformity dependent on Osteochondritis Dessicans (OCD) is a disease of unknown
compressive forces on the affected bone. On x-ray you see a etiology affecting children and adolescents, typically male. A
deformed articular surface, usually flattened. small segment of necrotic bone forms subchondrally, which
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease is a true AVN of the capital may heal spontaneously or become a joint mouse. Joint mice
fragment of the femoral epiphysis in children. Males are more in these cases are typically symptomatic because the major
commonly affected than females. 3-12 y/o is the average age. component is cartilage, which is not visible on x-ray.
Prognosis worsens with later ages. 1 in 10 are bilateral. Symptoms are joint effusion, pain on ROM, crepitation and
Clincally the pt has limp and a vague pain in the groin that locking and localized tenderness (vague to the ankle). The
may extend to the knee. Pain is exacerbated with activity. disease may be hereditary. There are two types of OCD – In-
There is often muscle atrophy in the thigh and a history of situ and displaced according to the fragment.
trauma in the affected individual. The etiology is unknown. Radiographically they look similar to talar dome fractures.
Blount’s Disease is not a true AVN, seen in infants affecting
the medial tibial epiphysis. The failure of the growth plate in ADULT FOOT DISORDERS
this area contributes to the formation of a tibia/genu varum. Heel Pain – Plantar: R/O soft tissue involvement, fissuring,
Osgood-Schlatter Disease is not a true AVN either, affecting tumor, and nerve entrapment. Plantar fasciitis presents
the tibial tuberosity. It is caused by a partial disruption of the radiographically as increased ST density of the plantar fascia,
tibial patellar ligament (w/ or w/o avulsion). Commonly and deossification of the calcaneus with accentuation of the
ossific nodules are seen with this disease, forming a large, tensile trabecular patterns (do not confuse w/ stress fx.) Heel
prominent tibial tuberosity. The course is self-limiting and spurs are sometimes seen in plantar fasciitis but also can be
affects mainly males 11-15 y/o. caused by the pull of the FDB, Abd hallucis, Abd digiti
Sindig-Larsen-Johannson Disease is not an AVN, but is minimi, and the long plantar ligament. Heel spurs account for
looks similar to Osgood-schlatter disease. It is a traction 15% of all adult foot complaints. They are typically directed
induced avulsion fragment of the lower patella. forward from the medial tubercle. They are assoc w/ obesity,
Diaz Disease is a true AVN of the talus. It is usually caused pes cavus & pes planus, and osteophytosis. It is important to
by trauma, graded by the Hawkin’s classification system. A note that the size of the spur has no effect on the symptoms,
positive Hawkin’s sign indicates revascularization. and oftentimes the contralateral (asymptomatic foot) will have
Sever’s Disease is a non-AVN of the calcaneus. It is a spur of equal or greater size. 90% do not require any type of
calcaneal apophysitis caused by traction of the calcaneus. It sx intervention to tx. Fluffy heel spurs are associated with
presents with heel pain and irregular ossification on x-ray. All certain arthropathies, particularly Reiter’s, ankylosing
radiographic findings, however, may also be seen in normal spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, RA, and Paget’s disease. Other
children. Examples include a sawtooth metaphysis, decreased causes of plantar heel pain include calcified bursae,
metaphyseal density, increased density of the apophysis, and atrophied fat pad (measuring 15-23mm), steroid-induced
fragmentation of the apophysis. Males and females are calcification, and nerve entrapment. Nerve entrapment can
affected equally. The primary D/dx for sever’s disease is be differentiated from plantar fasciitis by its response to
spring heel (hematogenous osteomyelitis of the calcaneus.) In steroids (relief in plantar fasciitis, no change in nerve
spring heel, the plantar tubercles typically show signs of entrapment), and with nuclear scanning (+ in plantar fasciitis).
deossification, not seen in sever’s disease. Heel Pain – Posterior: Tendo-Achilles (partial tear or
Kohler’s Disease is a true AVN of the navicular seen in males complete tear/AODM), retro-achillean bursa (caused by
around 5 y/o. It presents with localized pain, edema, shoe irritation), or retro-calcaneal bursae/Haglund’s
tenderness, and decreased ROM. Some pts have a deformity (most common.)
Heel Pain – Medial: Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome is caused by Hallucial Sesamoids are located in the tendon of FHB and
chronic irritation of the posterior tibial nerve in the flexor ossify between the ages of 8-12 (earlier in females than
retinaculum and inferior to the medial malleolus (seen w/ RA, males.) Up to 1/3 are multipartite, esp the tibial.
AODM, trauma, fx, and dislocation.) Medial calcaneal nerve Osteonecrosis of the tibial is termed renandier’s, while that of
entrapment and posterior tibial tendon dysfunction are the fibular sesamoid is trevor’s. An interphalangeal sesamoid
other causes of medial heel pain. (Radiographically is present in 43% of individuals (esp males), and is usually
represented by increased TC angle, anterior Cyma line, and bilateral. It may contribute to IPJ HPK formation.
sagging of the metatarsocuneiform joint.
Heel Pain – Lateral: Lateral heel pain is the most rare PEDIATRIC RADIOLOGY
presentation. It can be caused by sural nerve entrapment, Ossification of bones in the foot occurs sequentially from birth
calcaneo-fibular irregularities, peroneal tendon problems, to adolescence, and knowledge of this order is necessary for a
tarsal coalition, and ankle/RF varus deformities. physician to determine the correct skeletal age of a patient.
Midfoot to Rearfoot Relationship: Calcaneal pitch is The talus, calcaneus, metatarsals, and sometimes cuboid are
normally between 10-20 degrees – greater than this is pes ossified at birth. Then the order of ossification is medial
cavus and less is pes planus. A supinated foot will have an cuneiform at 6 months, intermediate cuneiform at 1 year,
accentuated or bullet hole sinus tarsi, while the pronated foot medial cuneiform at 1.5 years, and finally the navicular at 2.5-
will have a pseudo sinus tarsi which is in fact the posterior 5 years. The sesamoids ossify around 7-8 years of age.
subtalar joint facet being brought into the plane of the film. Common variations include an independent ossification center
Cavus Foot Structure: Typically caused by neurological or of the medial malleolus (20%) or of the distal phalanx of the
muscular imbalance. Forefoot cavus has an apex at the hallux, irregular epiphyseal plates, absent epiphyseal
lisfranc’s joint. Midfoot cavus has its apex at the chopart’s ossification in the middle phalanges, 5th digit synphalangism,
joint. Rearfoot cavus is calcaneal in nature and has a bilateral/symmetric cone-shaped epiphyses (which fuse earlier
calcaneal inclination angle of >30 degrees (and claw toes.) than normal epiphyses), and pseudoepiphyses, fissues, and
Foot Faults are sections of the foot where adjacent segments exostoses that may appear similar to fracture.
are improperly aligned. Hindfoot/Subtalar/Midtarsal Fault An accessory navicular is seen in 10% of children, posterior
Syndrome is characterized by an anterior Cyma line, pseudo to the navicular tuberosity, which can cause pes planovalgus
sinus tarsi, increased talar declination angle, decreased deformity that requires sx excision. The navicular itself
calcaneal inclination angle, everted cuboid, and less than 85% ossifies by multiple ossification centers which are
coverage of the talar head. The cuneiform-navicular fault asymmetrical and may look like kohler’s disease.
occurs at the CN joint. The medial cuneiform is plantarly Similarly, the calcaneal apophysis has multiple ossification
displaced, and the CC joint has decreased joint space dorsally centers which may look like sever’s disease. The calcaneus
(with increased space plantarly.) The foot appears longer. may also have a pseudocyst called the ward’s or neutral
Pes Valgo-Planus: The acquired form has a calcaneal triangle which appears as a radiolucent circle/triangle in the
inclincation angle >10 degrees (normal) but the inferior anterior calcaneus (10%). The calcaneus often has compact
surface of the calcaneus is concave. The congenital form bone islands as well. The apophysis of the 5th metatarsal base
(CCPV) has a low calcaneal inclincation angle with a convex runs parallel to the shaft, and should be distinguished from a
inferior surface of the calcaneus. fracture.
Diabetic Neuropathy occurs an average of 16 years after the RADIOGRAPHIC EVALUATION OF THE PEDIATRIC PATIENT
diagnosis of Type 2 DM (AODM). 74% present with a foot The standard AP in infants must use a simulated WB position
ulcer, particularly if loss of proprioception is involved. The which is accomplished with the knees flexed and held together
forefoot ulcerates twice as commonly as the rearfoot. Charcot and an additional 15 degree angulation of the tube. Lateral
neuroarthropathy has three stages of destruction, coalescence, views are positioned similarly, with the beam aimed at the
and remodeling. ankle. CT scanning is used in peds to determine tarsal
Stress Fractures (aka march/fatigue fx) occurs most coalitions as well as growth plate abnormalities. MRI can be
commonly in the metatarsals, esp the 2nd (38%), then the used to evaluate unossified structures.
calcaneus (28%), and tibia (24%). Early X-rays appear GROWTH VARIATIONS
normal, however it may appear radiographically over time and Macrodactyly is a localized gigantism of the digits caused by
as symptoms persist. fat infiltration, long-standing hyperemia (leading to
Hallux Abducto-Valgus (HAV): Is evaluated hypertrophy), or neurofibromatosis.
biomechanically by radiograph. Kippel-Trenaunay Syndrome is a localized gigantism of the
Normals: IM 10-20 PASA 0-8 hands or feet, usually in only one extremity. Varicose veins
HA 0-15 DASA 0-5 and port-wine hemangiomas are also present.
MA 12-15 Larsen’s Syndrome is characterized by a double ossification
Other factors evaluated are tibial sesamoid position, total center of the calcaneus with a cleft palate, joint dislocation,
adductory angle, metatarsal break angle, and bone density. equinovarus/valgus foot, broad thumbs, and vertebral
The joint status is described as congruous, deviated, or abnormalities.
subluxed. Positional HAV is one where PASA+DASA<HA. Gorham’s Disease (vanishing bone disease) is massive
Structural HAV is one where PASA+DASA>HA. osteolysis following episodes of trauma that can to opposing
Combined HAV is if the PASA+DASA >>>HA. bones across joint spaces. Radiographically the bones will
appear tapered with an absence of periosteal reaction. The Amniotic band syndrome (streeter’s bands) is the formation
primary d/dx is charcot foot. of constriction rings around the limbs, present at birth, which
Neurofibromatosis is characterized by multiple leads to distal loss of the limb. The cause is unknown.
neurofibromas with café-au lait spots, lipomas,
kyphoscoliosis, enlargement of the foot bones, multiple ST BIOMECHANICAL ABNORMALITIES
densities, congenital pseudoarthroses (mainly in fibula/tibia), Kite’s (TC) angle is normally 25-50° in peds; however, this
marked cortical thickening, and a hypoplastic pelvis. angle requires the use of estimated axes for involved bones.
Dwarfism is a plastic condition of localized bony Another method is to compare the long axis of the talus and 1st
undergrowth. It occurs when tumor, radiation, or primary MT – they should line up.
developmental defects cause the epiphyseal plates to Rearfoot Valgus is characterized by a high Kite’s and talar
prematurely close. The tibia is typically shorter than the declination angles, and is seen in flatfoot deformities,
fibula, the distal femoral metaphysis is hypoplastic, and the congenital vertical talus, and neuromuscular disease.
tibial and fibular metaphyses are cupped. Kyphosis is the Rearfoot Equinus is a calcaneal inclincation angle >90°. It is
most common skeletal abnormality. Equinus is a common seen in congenital equinovarus and congenital vertical talus.
foot deformity. There are 3 types of short-limb dwarfism: Rearfoot Varus is characterized by a low Kite’s angle and
Rhizomelic Dwarfism is a shortening of the proximal nearly parallel talar and calcaneal axes. It is seen in
segment (humerus or femur) equinovarus and some neuromuscular diseases.
Mesomelic Dwarfism is a shortening of the intermediate Pes Planovalgus is the most common cause of RF valgus.
segment (tibia/fibula or radius/ulna) The etiology is uncertain but thought to be related to
Acromelic Dwarfism is a shortening of the distal ligamentous laxity. On X-ray there is abduction of the
segment (hand, foot) forefoot, laterally displaced navicular, PF calcaneus, DF
Hurler’s Syndrome is a syndrome characterized by metatarsals, and PF talus. If seen w/ equinus or a short
dwarfism, mental retardation, kyphosis, hepatosplenomegaly, Achilles, it is termed hypermobile flatfoot. HAV is also a
and coarse facial features. Radiographically you see shortened common finding. Peroneal spasm may be seen if there is
shafts of the long bones with tapered ends, particularly in the tarsal coalition. Most are asymptomatic and require no sx.
upper extremities. There is also a coax valga and genu varum. Pes Cavus is most commonly seen w/ neuromuscular disease,
Aplasia/Hypoplasia (dysmelia) describes any reduction particularly CMT. Typically there is high calcaneal
malformation. The cause is unknown. They are classified by inclination, PF metatarsals, and clawed digits.
extent and orientation. Phocomelia is loss of the intermediate Talipes Equinovarus (Clubfoot) is most common in males,
segment of a limb. Meromelia is partial absence of a limb. Caucasians & Polynesians, and is hereditary. There are 3
Hemimelia is absence of a half (longitudinally) of a limb. etiologies – intrauterine pressure (most flexible), abnormal
They are a part of Fanconi’s anemia and thrombocytopenia- tendon/ligament attachment (difficult to treat), and teratologic
absent radius synd. Proximal femoral focal deficiency (PFFD) (assoc w/ arthrogryphosis and myeolodysplasia. Clincally you
is assoc w/ absence of the ipsilateral fibula as well. see FF adduction, RF varus, equinus, and TN subluxation. On
Polydactyly is the most common excess malformation. It can X-ray there is low Kite’s angle, FF adduction, PF calcaneus,
be isolated or occur w/ syndromes. There is no sex and stair-stepping of the metatarsals. The talonavicular
predilection and it is most common in the AA population. relationship is estimated – Simon’s angle should be btw 0-20°,
50% of cases are bilateral. The tetamy & McKusick TC angle should be >15 and talometatarsal <15° for normal.
classification is preaxial (tibial side of 2nd digit) or postaxial Tx is initially casting, then sx w/ FF correction first (then RF.)
(fibular side of 2nd digit – 80%). The venn-watson Congenital Vertical Talus is assoc w/ arthrogryphosis,
classification is that preaxial polydactyly has a short myelomeningocoele, and chromosomal abnormalities. It is
metatarsal w/ wide metatarsal head. Postaxial has a Y or T more common in males and it 50% bilateral. On X-ray it is
shaped metatarsal, or complete metatarsal duplication. similar to pes planovalgus, but talus is markedly PF, and
Brachydactyly is shortening of the digits due to hypoplasia or calcaneus may be in equinus. With DF metatarsals this makes
syndactyly. It is seen in pseudo(pseudo)hypoparathryroidism, for a rockerbottom foot.
turner’s synd, sickle-cell, Down’s, and fetal dilantin synd.
Fusion deformities are errors of segmentation. Syndactyly BASIC CXR INTERPRETATION
can be simple (only soft tissues fused) or complex (varying CXR positioning: Standard positioning is with the patient
degrees of bony involvement). facing the cassette for PA, or with their back to the cassette for
Apert’s syndrome (discussed earlier) is manifested AP projections. The patient is instructed to inhale fully to
radiographically by multiple bony coalitions all over the body, standardize the view. AP projections make the heart appear
leading to limitation of motion that is progressive. magnified b/c it is farther from the cassette – the PA
Nievergelt-Perlman syndrome is characterized by clubfoot, projection shows clear lung fields and a normal-sized heart.
synphalangism, conduction deafness, ball&socket ankle joint, Lateral films are taken with the pathological side closer to the
flexion deformities, and phocomelia or hemimelia. film. Normally the position of the patient is standing, w/ arms
Carpenter’s syndrome is polysyndactyly w/ premature raised and chin up. However, depending on the condition of
synostosis of the skull. the patient, sitting or decubitus positioning may be necessary.
Poland’s syndrome is syndactyly and digital hypoplasia. The standard position decreases enlargement and distortion of
the heart and vessels, allows the diaphragm to move down,
and shows air-fluid levels better in the chest. When
positioning the film on a viewbox, it should be placed as either side of the medistinum and are readily appreciable on
though the patient is facing you (i.e. heart facing their left.) X-ray when adenopathy is present.
Osseous Structures to be evaluated in the chest include the LUNG PATHOLOGY
sternum, clavicles, scapulae, ribs, and thoracic vertebrae. On Alveolar processes appear as triangular-shaped areas of
lateral view there are two areas of radiolucency called the increased readiodensity, depending on the extent of
retrosternal airspace and the retrocardial airspace – this is involvement. This presentation is seen in pneumonia,
normal. You should be able to visualize 10 ribs in a normal advanced CHF, ARDS, and PE. Occasionally there may be
individual. Intercostal spaces are named by the rib superior. the addition of fluffy margins in the case of longer standing
The Diaphragm is divided into two on the AP view by the pathology, due to extension of fluid through adjacent acini
vertebrae, making a left and right hemidiaphragm. The right through the pore of Kohn. The silhouette sign is the name
side is normally higher due to the liver (and moreso in HSM.) given to alveolar pathology that exists in close proximity to
The Pleura can only be appreciated with pathology (pleurisy.) the heart or great vessels – the water-density of the pathology
The Lungs should be evaluated in more depth than the rest of makes the outline of the heart and vessels (also water dense) to
the chest X-ray because of subtleties that can be easily missed. be indistinct.
It is recommended to first do a “quick glance” of the lungs to CHF and pulmonary edema cause the hilar lymph nodes and
determine if they are the normal shape and density. Then, vessels to become more distinct on X-ray. The fanning out of
divide each lung into thirds in both the transverse and sagittal the lymphatic vessels bilaterally produces a “batwing” or
planes. Then examine each third separately from each other “butterfly” appearance and is described so radiographically.
with respect to the anatomy of each and densities seen therein. Interstitial processes are those that cause an increase in
If pathology is suspected, determine if it is confined within radiodensity of the interstitium, meaning bronchi, septa, and
lobar divisions – almost all lung pathology except tumors are lymphatics. This type of pathologic process is seen in
lobar in nature. The costophrenic angles are also important to interstitial pulmonary edema, fibrosis, TB, viral pneumonia,
note, as blunting of these angles may be a sign of infection or metastatic tumor, connective tissue disease, and interstitial
left ventricular hypertrophy. Bronchi are not normally seen pneumonitis. Miliary TB is seen as multiple tiny focal areas
on X-ray unless they are thickened, which is the case in cystic of increased radiodensity. Asbestosis appears as an interstitial
fibrosis, CHF, or lymphatic obstruction secondary to tumor. process in the basilar lung fields. Emphysema is a loss of
Supporting structures of the lungs are similarly not seen interstitial density due to loss of tissue in the interstitium.
normally on X-ray, but in pathological processes these lung Besides a change in density, the diaphragm is pulled low
septa, as well as lymphatic channels, can be seen and are (making the lung fields appear “tall”), and the heart is deviated
referred to as Kerley lines. Kerley A lines are apically medially. On a lateral view, the sternal angle may be
located, extending out from the hilum or upper margins. increased.
Kerley B lines are basilar in location, found in the lower lung Primary lung lesions may be seen virtually anywhere in the
periphery, about the diaphragm. Kerley C lines appear lung fields. A general rule of thumb when assessing primary
anywhere in the lung, but have a crosshatch appearance. lung tumor is that dense masses tend to be benign, while fluffy
Kerley lines are seen in interstitial edema/fibrosis, sarcoidosis, and ill-defined masses are more likely malignant. Also, if a
pneumonia, lymphatic obstruction, connective tissue disease, lesion is particularly dense (meaning possibly a calcified
RA, and scleroderma. center), it is increasingly likely that the lesion is a granuloma.
The Mediastinum is the last part of the CXR to examine. Another way to differentiate tumor from granuloma is by
Primarily noted in the mediastinum are the heart and great looking at blood flow to the area – tumors tend to be
blood vessels. An area of increased density is seen usually on associated with blood vessels anatomically, whereas
the left side of the trachea and is called the aortic knob – this granulomas are not. Also important to keep in mind is that
is where the aorta turns back on itself. The size of the heart is (for some reason) nipples are visible radiographically, and it is
estimated using the cardiothoracic ratio which is normally important to note where these are initially, so that they are not
2:1 (the heart should be half the width of the lungs in total.) mistaken for a tumor later.
Cardiomegaly, also known as a “boot-shaped heart,” can be If a lesion is metastatic, it may take on a localized metastasis
caused by sports conditioning (normal), CHF, mitral valve pattern (one large tumor surrounded by many small ones), or if
stenosis, chronic HTN, pericardial effusion, and left from another source may be scattered throughout the lung
ventricular hypertrophy. Masses in the medastinum usually fields. Central cavitation in large tumors is indicative of rapid
represent aortic aneurysms. The trachea, located superiorly growth and carries a poor prognosis.
in the mediastinum, is used to determine the midline of the
body in the CXR. When compared with the aortic knob
(which should be slightly to the left) and the right atrium
(which should be slightly to the right), it can be determined if
the patient was standing in the correct position for the AP/PA
view. In peds it is sometimes necessary to visualize the
thymus, however it is normally obscured by other mediastinal
contents. Therefore, it is the only case in which you take
expiratory CXR views, so that the thymus may be allowed to
deviate away from the midline and be visualized before the
lung fields. Lastly, the hilar lymph nodes are located on
and breast. Ga-67 is taken up in tumors and abscesses w/in
2h, but is ideally scanned at 36-72h. It is less dependent on
vascular supply than Tc-99, but is only sensitive to infection.
Post-surgical sites can stay hot to Ga-67 for up to 2wks.
Chronic osteomyelitis is negative in Ga-67, + in acute. Tc-99
remains positive in both.
Indium is an agent that is tagged to leukocytes in the
patient’s blood and reintroduced via I.V. It is more specific
than Ga-67 but more dependent on leukocyte chemotaxis. T½
is 28d. I-111 is used to evaluate osteomyelitis (acute), DM
NUCLEAR IMAGING neuropathy, joint infections, bone marrow, and ST infection.
Nuclear imaging (scintigraphy) is used to analyze a number of It may show false positives in inflammatory arthritis.
organ systems in the body, most commonly bone. This is due COMPUTERIZED TOMOGRAPHY (CT)
to the fact that bone loss must reach 33-50% to be detected CT is an imaging modality that uses highly focused X-rays to
radiographically, whereas with nuclear imaging changes can create detailed images with subtle changes in tissue density
be detected within hours. Nuclear imaging can also pick up and accurate descriptions of lesion location and size.
pathology that is not clinically visible. Most common Computerization also allows 3D reconstruction. The primary
pathologies indicated are bone tumors, osteomyelitis, stress disadvantages of CT are cost and increased radiation exposure.
fracture, non-specific bone pain, and AVN. The primary It is indicated for trauma, coaltions, ST masses, and infection.
disadvantage to nuclear imaging is poor resolution, which The X-ray tube rotates around the patient in a CT scan, while
makes this imaging modality non-specific (despite high opposite the tube are detectors that are used to create an
sensitivity.) image. The image produced is divided into a grid, of which
Uptake of the nuclear tracer in a bone scan occurs in an each 2D segment is a pixel, which when coupled with the 3D
area where the normal process of bony turnover is upset in any depth is called a voxel. The depth of the voxel is determined
way. Areas where turnover is increased (typical in injury) by slice thickness. Each voxel is then assigned a number
show up “hot” or darker on the image, whereas areas where based on the amount of radiation that passed through that
infarction or compromised blood supply have occurred show segment. If the density of tissue is greater than water, the
up “cold” or blank. number is positive, whereas if the tissue is less dense than
There are a variety of imaging agents available for use in water it gets a negative number. (Bone is 1000-3000, air is -
bone scanning, each with advantages and disadvantages. In 1000.) In an image, the lowest density is represented by
addition to availability and half-life, imaging agents also vary black, while the highest is white, and everything inbetween is
according to the carrier molecule that they bind. Technetium a gray scale, as in X-ray. However, in CT particular densities
is the most common, and may be bound to phosphate (Tc-99, can be windowed, that is, anything below the density window
for bone), pernechate (for brain/blood flow, joint imaging), or is black and anything above is white. This means that great
albumin (for lung perfusion/VQ scans). Also available are levels of contrast can be achieved if only the desired
gallium (Ga-67, for inflammation) and indium (I-111, also for pathological tissue is windowed (others are ignored.) Larger
inflammation). A new agent, ceretec, uses Tc-labeled windows, then, have lower contrast values.
leukocytes and has a shorter t½ as well as increased specificity When ordering CT scans, the specific area of interest
over I-111. For most agents, renal dysfunction is a should be stated (possibly w/ bone scan), along w/ plain films.
contraindication for use. Any lesions should have a measurement request, and
The most basic bone scan uses Tc-99, which incorporates reconstructions and magnification are avalible if appropriate.
as phosphate in areas of new bone formation. The t½ is 6h, CT scans include a scout film, which shows the location of
and requires adequate blood supply. Post-injection, uptake specific slices as well as slice thickness. The scout film looks
will be greatest in the bladder, SI joint, ASIS, kidneys, similar to a plain film x-ray. Image reconstruction in CT is
nasopharynx, lacrimal glands, and epiphyseal plates. used to view sagittal plane slices, which are out of phase with
Scanning for Tc-99 occurs in 4 phases. First is the the CT scanner and thus must be calculated by the computer.
dynamic/blood flow phase which is taken immediately after These reconstructed images are also called secondary slices.
injection. Little is seen in this phase normally. The second Finally, there is a specialized CT you can order called a
phase, blood pool, occurs 1-6 minutes post-injection, and scanogram, which is an image of the entire lower extremity
shows vascularity to a particular region. The third phase, from the pelvis, used to measure LLD. A scanogram is
bone imaging, is taken 2-4h post injection and shows bony basically a scout film with measurements to determine
turnover (usually the most important.) The last phase, absolute length of bony segments.
delayed, is taken 24h post injection, and measures clearance Overall, CT terminology and analysis is very similar to
of the Tc-99 agent from the tissue. For osteomyeltits, Tc-99 plain films. It is most effective at analyzing osseous
can pick up changes w/in 24h (compared to 10d for X-ray.) pathology, and is often used in conjunction with bone scans.
Gallium 67-citrate is a different agent which is not It is less expensive than MRI but inferior to MRI for analysis
sensitive to osteoblastic activity, and has a long (72h) t½. It is of soft tissues.
used to image ST inflammation through binding to iron
binding proteins in WBCs. Normal uptake is seen in the liver,
spleen, stomach, lacrimal glands, intestine, salivary glands,
images or low intensity on T2 images. It should be
homogenous in appearance.
Cortical Bone lacks free hydrogen, so it appears to have low
signal intensity on all images.
Tendons and Ligaments have low hydrogen content also,
(though higher than bone) and has low intensity in all images.
Tendons are contrasted best in T1 weighted images, however.
Subcutaneous Fat and all other fatty areas have a high T1
signal intensity and low T2 signal intensity.
Vascular Supply to an area shows up with low intensity in
MRI due to movement, called a flow void. This is why
contrast media are required to visualize blood vessels on MRI.
Muscle is intermediate in hydrogen density, and thus shows
up intermediate intensity in all images.
MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING (MRI) SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS
MRI is an imaging modality that allows for the visualization MRI cannot be used with electrically or magnetically activated
of hydrogen protons in the human body. Hydrogen protons implants like pacemakers, defibrillators, or cochlear implants.
are present in nearly all materials and are electrically charged, Metallic objects located within the body will not cause harm,
within a magnetic field, and spins on its own axis. This makes but cause artifact on the MRI readout which may render it
it ideal for differentiating between different tissue types and useless. If it is suspected that a patient may have a metallic
analysis of hydrogen proton concentration gives clues to the foreign body in the vicinity of the eyes, an orbital X-ray is
chemical makeup of the tissues analyzed. indicated. Lastly, it has not yet been proven that MRI is safe
The most important component of an MRI scanner is the to use on gravid females; for women in their first trimester, it
magnet, which can be permanent (exerting 0.4T) or super- is advised that a risk/benefit analysis be done before making
conducting (1.5-2.5T) and initiates the process by which the the decision to go ahead with MRI.
hydrogen protons may be visualized. In the first step of the PATHOLOGY ON MRI
process, magnetic field, the magnet is activated around the Osseous trauma, including stress fractures, will typically
patients body in the area to be visualized. The second step, show up as a decrease in signal intensity on T1WI in the area
radiofrequency pulse, is a pulsing of electromagnetic energy of trauma, with diffuse increase in intensity on T2WI due to
in accordance with the precession (spin) of the hydrogen localized inflammation to the area. STIR images can be
atoms, which is a frequency called the larmor frequency. utilized to see marrow edema.
This pulsing at the larmor frequency causes all the hydrogen Avascular necrosis will show a well-defined line of
protons to spin in the direction of the magnetic field. Then, in demarcation between viable bone and devascularized bone on
the last step, relaxation, the magnetic field is turned off, and T1WI.
the hydrogen atoms slowly return to their normal spin axes. Osteochondritis dessicans will show up as a decreased area
The time which it takes for this to happen is termed relaxation of signal intensity on a T1WI in the acute stage, but as the
also, and each tissue type has different relaxation rates. condition becomes chronic intensity increases.
Measurement of spin relaxation is the basic principle ST infection is best visualized as increased intensity on T2 or
behind how the MRI produces an image, and the intensity with STIR images due to inflammation in the area. The degree of
which tissues show up on the image relate to time values contrast seen can differentiate abscess from cellulitis.
associated with relaxation. One of these values is T1, which is Osteomyelitis shows high intensity on T2WI for cortical bone
the time it takes for a particular tissue to regain 63% of its as well as low signal intensity on T1WI for medullary bone.
longitudinal spin. Another value, T2, is the time it takes for a Charcot neuroarthropathy shows up as a decrease in signal
proton to lose 63% of its transverse spin. (Note: T2 is always intensity on T1 and T2WI for affected joints.
a longer value than T2.) Other values include TR (time to Bone tumors typically have a low to intermediate signal on
repeat – the duration of one imaging cycle), and TE (time to T1WI and higher intensity on T2WI, although they may be
echo – time in which magnetization is converted to RF signal.) high on T1WI if fat or blood-filled. Calcification within a
Weighted images are those that emphasize a particular time tumor will also show up as lower intensity on all images.
value, to focus on a particular tissue type. A type of image Soft tissue tumors also show up with low T1WI signal
called proton density is a balance of a long TR and short TE intensity and high T2WI signal intensity, however, the
interval, which does not emphasize any particular time value. composition of the tumor will affect this. Benign lesions tend
A STIR image is a special form of inversion recovery in to be well demarcated, homogenous, and have a less
which the T1 time is very short – this is also called “fat pronounced change in signal intensity.
suppression” because fat tends to show up black. In addition Ganglion cysts are easy to pick out on MRI because of their
to weighting images, contrast can be added (gadolinium, very low T1WI intensity and very high T2WI intensity.
gadolinium DTPA) to visualize vascular lesions. Enchondroma shows up as homogenous and loculated with a
NORMAL ANATOMY ON MRI high T2WI and STIR intensity due to cartilage. Calcifications
Bone Marrow is mostly composed of fat, which has a short may show up as a heterogenous intensity.
relaxation time and thus shows up at high intensity for T1
Lipomas tend to be superficial homogenous lesions with the Other uses for arthrography besides ligament injury may be to
same signal intensity as surrounding fat, unless calcifications visualize joint mice, synovial hypertrophy, joint infection
are present. (which shows uptake of contrast to lymphatics), and capsulitis.
Tenography is the use of contrast media injected into a
MISCELLANEOUS IMAGING MODALITIES tendon sheath to visualize the course of the tendon it encloses.
Xeroradiography is a dry process that uses electrostatic It is useful for visualizing post-traumatic tendon injury.
forces to produce an image. Positive xeroradiographs are used Venography is the use of contrast media to visualize the
to visualize bone and non-metallic foreign-bodies. Negative course of a vein. It is the gold-standard for visualizing DVTs
xeroradiographs visualize soft tissue and metallic foreign but cannot be used in pts w/ an iodine allergy. Side effects
bodies. include allergic rxn, induced DVT, and localized skin
Digital Radiography is an X-ray method by which plain films necrosis.
are replaced with phosphor plates that transfer the image to a Arteriography is the use of contrast media to evaluate
digital signal. This process may produce very detailed images vascular supply. Its use is contraindicated in trauma,
and can zoom in or out to the tastes of the interpreter. athrosclerosis, AV malformations, emboli, or tumors.
Liquid Crystal Thermography produces an image dependent Angiography is visualization of the arterial supply using
on skin surface temperature. This is useful in diabetic computerized digial subtraction to remove non-vascular
neuropathy to predict the location of future ulcers, as well as structures from the picture. It is indicated in evaluation of
vascular and dermatologic pathologies. Digital atherosclerosis and AV malformation.
thermography is a similar process that involves recording an
image with a thermal camera.
Ultrasonography produces an image converted from high-
energy sound waves. Contrast is produced by variations in the
way that different tissues reflect sound. It is most useful for
distinguishing solid from fluid-filled masses, and in most
pathologies tissue alteration is significant enough for
ultrasound to detect.
Sinography is an X-ray taken after injecting a sinus with
radioopaque fluid. It is used to determine the size and extent
of a sinus tract and the location of potential abscesses.
Sinography cannot be used if the patient is allergic to iodine.
Local tissue necrosis and infection are other side effects.
Arthrography is radiographic imaging of a joint space using
injected contrast media. A single contrast arthrogram uses a
single contrast agent, and is used to determine the extent of
acute injury or ligamentous damage. Double-contrast
arthrograms utilize both positive and negative (air) contrast
media, and is used for chronic processes (such as OCD.)
Arthrograms may not be taken if the patient has cellulitis in
the area, and joint sepsis is a potential side effect.
A normal arthrogram of the ankle should show smooth
synovial lining with redundant ankle capsule, medial and
lateral recesses, smooth and uniform articular cartilage, and a
syndesmotic recess ~2.0cm to the interosseous membrane. In
15% of pts, there is a communication btw the ankle and
posterior STJ facet. In 15-20% there is a communication btw
the ankle and FHL/FDL sheaths.
Pathology seen in an arthrogram is typically due to lateral
ankle injury, and must be imaged w/in 48h of the incident.
Contrast leakage is usually indicative of ligamentous injury.
Injury of the ATF ligament shows extravasation anterior and
lateral to the fibula. The CF ligament is close to the peroneal
tendons and thus with CFL injury extravasation into these
tendon sheaths is seen. Chronic injury to the CFL will have a
persistent communication between these two structures. The
PTF ligament is rarely injured and is always seen with either
an ATFL or CFL rupture as well. Medial ankle injuries are
extremely uncommon. Syndesmotic tears are associated with
medial ankle ligament injury, and shows extravasation
superior to the syndesmotic recess.
CLINICAL ANTIBIOSIS IV: CEFOXITIN (MEROXIN), CEFUROXIME (ZINACEF), CEFOTETAN
Infection: Pathologic presence of bacteria in a wound or tissue site, (CEFOTAN)
numbering 106. It is clinically signified by inflammation, erythema, PO: CEFACLOR (CECLOR) 250-500mg TID, CEFUROXIME (CEFTIN),
pain, warmth, and loss of function. CEFPROZIL (CEFZIL)
History: Local signs of infection are edema, erythema, pain,
warmth, and loss of function. Systemic signs of infection include Third-Generation Cephalosporins
fever, chills, shaking, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and More gram -, less gram +, fortaz also anti pseudomonal
shortness of breath. Get history of prior tx, PMH, allergies, social IV: CEFTRIAXONE (ROCEPHIN) 1-2g QD (long half-life)
Hx, travel Hx, and any pets the patient may have. Staph Epi is most Rocephin principal antibiotic in Lyme disease treatment
common in IV/catheter or implant infections. Staph aureus is the CEFTAZIDIME (FORTAZ): some antipseudomonal coverage
most common post-op infection and cause of osteomyelitis. PO: CEFDINIR (OMNICEF) 300mg BID, better staph coverage
D/Dx: Gout, DVT (r/o w/ venous Doppler/venogram), chronic CEFPODOXIME (VANTIN), CEFIXIME (SUPRAX)
venous insufficiency (bilateral pitting edema, hemosiderin
deposition), acute charcot, acute trauma, fungal infection, normal Fourth-Generation Cephalosporins
wound healing, post-surgical healing. Good gram + and gram -, antipseudomonal
Labs: WBC>10, left shift, elevated ESR, CRP. CEFEPIME (MAXIPIME) IV, 1-2g q12h
Hospital Admission: Indicated for osteomyelitis, large draining
wound, sustained fever (over 101F/38C), diabetes, CARBAPENEMS
immunocompromised state, gas present in tissues, failure of PO PRIMAXIN (IMIPENEM + CILASTATIN): PO 500mg q6h
antibiosis, lab results suggestive of sepsis. Gram +, gram -, anaerobes – cilastatin added to protect kidneys.
Expensive, save for life-threatening infections
PENICILLINS MEROPENEM (MERREM) some antipseudomonal coverage
Original Penicillins ERTAPENEM (INVANZ): IV, IM, 1g q24h
Not used often – usually for gonococcus, anaerobes Good against enterobacteria, but not pseudomonas
PEN G: IV or IM – 5-6 million U q4h AZTREONAM (AZACTAM): IV, 1-2g q8h
PEN VK: PO – 250-500mg QID, causes hypokalemia Only good against gram – anaerobes; use in combination
Aminopenicillins AMINOGLYCOSIDES
Good broad spectrum, but useless against staph. Staph, strep, gram -, but not anaerobes
AMPICILLIN: IM, IV, PO – 250-500mg QID or 2g q4h ADRs: reversible nephrotoxicity, irreversible ototoxicity,
AMOXICILLIN: PO only – 250-500mg QID Neuromuscular blockade if infused too quickly
GENTAMYCIN, TOBRAMYCIN, AMIKACIN
Semisynthetic Loading doses: Gentamycin/Tobramycin 2mg/kg
PCNnase resistant, good vs. staph, used in specific situations Amikacin 7.5mg/kg
NAFCILLIN: IM or IV – 1-2g q4-6h, metabolized in liver Maintenance: Gent/Tobra 3-5mg/kg/day (1-3 for children)
DICLOXACILLIN: PO – 250-500mg QID Amikacin 15mg/kg/day
Peak/Trough: Gent&Tobra 10 peak, 2 trough µg/ml,
Uriedopenicillins (Expanded Spectrum) Amikacin 20-30 peak, 10 trough µg/ml
Active against pseudomonas, resistance is common Trough level: Gent/Tobra 2µg/ml, Amikacin 10µg/ml
CARBENICILLIN: Limited use in lower extremity (Peak = immediately after dosing, Trough = 20-30 minutes before
TICARCILLIN: IV – 3-4g q4h, high in sodium dosing)
PIPERICILLIN: Limited use in lower extremity
FLOUROQUINOLONES
Beta-Lactamase Inhibitors CIPROFLOXACIN (CIPRO): PO 500/750mg, IV 400mg BID
First choice antibiotics w/ cephalosporins Good gram – coverage, antipseudomonal
Staph, Strep, Anaerobes, Gram - coverage Not for peds, Sx prophylaxis, or weak/tenotomized tendons
TIMENTIN (TICARCILLIN + 100MG CLAVULANATE) LEVOFLOXACIN (LEVAQUIN): PO or IV 500/750mg BID
IV – 3.1g q6-8h Good for staph and strep, not as strong antipseudomonal
Empiric for DM foot infections, bites MOXIFLOXACIN (AVELOX): PO or IV 400mg QD
AUGMENTIN (AMOXICILLIN + 125MG CLAVULANATE) Good staph, strep, and antipseudomonal
PO – 250/500/875 BID GATIFLOXACIN (TEQUIN): Not for foot infections, lengthens QT
Good for outpatient DM, bites TROVAFLOXACIN (TROVAN): Taken off market for hepatic failure
UNASYN (1 PART AMPICILLIN + ½ PART SULBACTAM)
IV – 3g loading dose, 1.5g following doses SULFONAMIDES
Better at gram + but worse for gram – than timentin BACTRIM/SEPTRA (TRIMETHOPRIM + SULFAMETHOXAZOLE): PO only
ZOSYN (PIPERICILLIN + TAZOBACTAM) - QD dosing, double-strength (DS) 160mg TMX, 800mg
IV – 4.5g q8h sulfamethoxazole
Better against enterococci Broadest possible spectrum, not antipseudomonal
Allergies common
CEPHALOSPORINS
First Generation Cephalosporins MACROLIDES
Good for gram +, most common pre-op prophylaxis ERYTHROMYCIN: PO 250-500mg QD, IV 1g QD
CEFAZOLIN (ANCEF): IV or IM, 1g q8h Good against staph, gram + and gram – anaerobes
CEFALEXIN (KEFLEX): PO, 250-500mg BID/QID AZITHROMYCIN (ZITHROMAX): PO 500mg QD day 1, 250mg QD days
CEFADROXIL (DURICEF): PO, 500mg q12h 2-4. Postbiotic effect for 10 days following dosing.
Gram +, some Gram – organisms, usually for pts who are allergic to
Second-Generation Cephalosporins other antibiotics, or peds (Paronychia)
Used mainly for ear infections, pneumonia – not podiatry CLARITHROMYCIN (BIAXIN): Not often used for foot infections
TETRACYCLINES LOWER EXTREMITY MICOBIOLOGY REVIEW
TETRACYCLINE, DOXYCYLINE, MINOCYCLINE GRAM + COCCI
Limited use in podiatry – mainly used for acne, Lyme disease Staph Aureus – Coagulase +
Incidence: Normal flora, common infection, high resistance
CHLORAMPHENICOL ABx: 1st Cephalosporins, PCNase resistant PCN, Cleocin, Bactrim,
Mainly a historical footnote; rarely used anymore Erythromycin, Vanco (resistant), Cipro (resistant)
Staph Epidermidis/Saprophyticus – Coagulase –
ANTI-ANAEROBIC MISCELLANY Incidence: Normal flora – Epi seen in implant sx, sap in UTI
METRONIDAZOLE (FLAGYL): PO or IV, 500mg TID ABx: Same as S. Aureus
Mainly gram – but some gram +, amebiasis, colorectal Sx Strep Pyogenes – Group A, Strep Agalactiae – Group B
Used also to treat pseudomembranous colitis (see below) Incidence: Pyogenes usually superficial, Agalactiae seen in DM
CLINDAMYCIN (CLEOCIN): PO 150-300mg BID, IV or IM 600-900mg ABx: PCNs, 1st gen Cephalosporins, Cleocin, Vanco
q8h. Good bone penetrance, good for anaerobes Strep Faecalis/Faecium – Group D/Enterococci
Can cause pseudomembranous colitis Incidence: GI flora, highly resistant, ST infection component
ABx: Gentamycin + PCN/Ampicillin/Amoxicillin or Vanco
ANTI-GRAM + MISCELLANY Peptostreptococcus/Peptococcus – Anaerobic
VANCOMYCIN (VANCOCIN): PO 125mg QD (only for c. difficile), IV Incidence: DM foot infections
1g q12h – infuse slowly Good for all gram + except VRSA and VRE. ABx: PCN, 1st gen Cephalosporins, Cleocin, Erythromycin
Peak – 20-500µg/ml, Trough - 10µg/ml, like aminoglycosides
(Trough is more important to determine efficacy of treatment) GRAM + BACILLI
ADRs: nephrotoxicity, ototoxicity, red man syndrome (rash) Clostridium Tetani – Anaerobic, Spore-forming
Can be used for prophylaxis if PCN, clindamycin allergic Incidence: Ubiquitous in environment, puncture wounds
SYNERCID (QUINUPRISTIN + DALFOPRISTIN): IV 7.5mg/kg q12h Used ABx: PCNs (mainly useless b/c of neurotoxin production)
for VRE Clostridium Perfringens – Anaerobic
LINEZOLID (ZYVOX): PO, IV 600mg BID Incidence: Fast growing, gas gangrene (necrotizing fasciitis)
Used for MRSA, all gram +. Can cause thrombocytopenia ABx: Sx debridement indicated – PCN, Clinda, Imipenem
RIFAMPIN: PO 300mg BID Good for resistant staph and strep Corynebacterium – diptheroid
Causes rash, orange discoloration of all body fluids. Incidence: Nosocomial, Immunocompromised infections
ABx: Clinda, Erythromycin, Vanco
ADVERSE REACTIONS
-Pseudomembranous Colitis – Clindamycin, cephalosporins, GRAM – COCCI
uriedopenicillins: Tx w/ metronidazole, oral vancomycin Neisseria Gonorrhoeae
-Tendon rupture, cartilage degeneration – Ciprofloxacin Incidence: Major cause of septic arthritis is LE, resistant
-Ototoxicity (irreversible), nephrotoxicity (reversible), neuromuscular ABx: Rocephin, Cipro (resistant)
blockade – Gentamycin, Tobramycin, Amikacin
-Ototoxicity, nephrotoxicity, red man synd. – Vancomycin GRAM – RODS (ENTERIC)
-Hypokalemia – Pen G, Pen VK: Tx w/ K-exelate Bacteroides
-Thrombocytopenia, bone marrow suppression – Linezolid Incidence: Most common in DM infection, resistant
-Rash, orange discoloration of body fluid – Rifampin ABx: Flagyl, primaxin, clinda, 3rd or 4th gen cephalosporins
-QT interval lengthening – Tequin Enterobacter/Citrobacter/Morganella/Serratia
Incidence: Nosocomial infections, elderly
ANTI-PSEUDOMONAL DRUGS ABx: 3rd gen cephalosporins, cipro, bactrim, aminoglycosides
Penicillins: Ticarcillin (weak), Timentin (weak) Escherichia Coli
Cephalosporins: Fortaz (weak), Maxipime (strong) Incidence: Common in LE infections
Carbapenems: Meropenem (weak) ABx: Any cephalosporin, ampicillin, cipro, bactrim
Quinolones: Cipro (strong), Levaquin (weak), Avelox (strong) Proteus/Providencia
Aminoglycosides: Tobramycin (strong) Incidence: Normal flora, common in interdigital infections
ABx: Cephalosporins, Ampicillin, Cipro, Bactrim
EMPIRIC TREATMENT OPTIONS
Cellulitis: Unasyn, Zosyn, Timentin, Maxipime, Invanz, Avelox, OTHER GRAM – RODS
Cipro, Levaquin, Bactrim. Aeromonas Hydrophilia
Open fractures: Gustillo & Anderson Type I or II – Ancef Incidence: Injuries sustained under water (fresh water)
Gustillo & Anderson type III (any) – add Gentamycin ABx: Cipro, Bactrim, Primaxin, Aminoglycosides
If farm injury/wound contaminated with dirt, add Pen G Haemophilus Influenzae
Incidence: Most common in children, nosocomial infections
SURGICAL PROPHYLAXIS ABx: 3rd/4th gen cephalosporins, bactrim, ampicillin
Indications: Prolonged surgery, immunocompromise, trauma, Pseudomonas Aeruginosa
implant surgery. Incidence: Ubiquitous; puncture wounds, underwater injuries most
Most Common: Ancef, Rocephin, Vancomycin, Clindamycin common.
Never Used: Quinolones ABx: See left
Administration: IV, ½h prior to surgery (usually done in OR) Eikenella Corrodens
Incidence: Found in human bite wounds
ANTIBIOTIC TIMELINE ABx: PCN, Ampicillin, Macrolides, Imipenems
Soft tissue infection only: 10 days – 2 weeks Pasturella Multicida
Osteomyelitis: 4-6 weeks Incidence: Cat and other animal bite wounds
ABx: PCN, Ampicillin, β-lactamase inhibitors, bactrim.
LABS GLUCOSE (Glu)
Normal Range = 60-110 mg/dL
CHEMISTRY PANEL/BASIC METABOLIC PROFILE Glucose is closely regulated so as to provide energy to all cells in the body
without allowing any spillover into the urine. The excess of glucose seen in
Na+ Cl- BUN DM is the underlying cause for all complications of that disease.
Increased in: DM, cushing’s syndrome, chronic pancreatitis, corticosteroids,
Glu
phenytoin, estrogens, thiazides.
K +
HCO3 -
Creat Decreased in: Insulinoma, adrenocortical insufficiency, hypopituitarism, liver
disease, malignancy, insulin, ethanol, propanolol, solfonylureas, tolbutamide.
31. TILT-UP
Def- vertical wedge w/ cortical hinge located plantarly
Fixation- 2.0 or 2.7 K-wire dorsal to plantar
32. JIMENEZ
Def- oblique wedge w/ cortical hinge located plantar
proximal
Fixation- 2.0 or 2.7 K-wire
Normal Pathologic
PLANTAR FASCIITIS
42. HEEL PLANTAR FASCIOTOMY
Dx- find exact location of pain using: nerve conduction & 45. KECK-N-KELLY
EMG, bone scan, lab tests Def- dorsiflexory wedge osteotomy w/ a plantar hinge
Ind- heel pain; initially 3 months of conservative care Procedure Incision lateral, inferior, and parallel to
should be attempted (but is not always practical) peroneal tendons
NSAID Heel cup Resect bump
Pre-fabricated orthotic Ice DF Calcaneal wedge osteotomy
Stretching P.O. steroids Fixate- 2 X staples or orthosorb pins
Steroid injection Acupuncture Post-Op- NWB cast 6wks
P.T. (ultrasound) Taping Comp- tendonitis, hinge breaks, posterior bone
Procedure DuVries medial incision (oblique at fragment
posterior calcaneus) 3-5 cm
Release fascia only
Post-Op- WB SxS
Comp- stress Fx, continued heel pain, increased fibrosis at
fascial origin, severe lateral plantar n., sever nerve to
ADDuctor Digiti Minimi, misdiagnosis
DuVries- removal of heel spur along w/ plantar fascia release
Snook & Chrisman- removal of portion of medial Calcaneal
tubercle (Manoli found that Fx occurred)
Gormley & Kuwada- heel spur resection, fascial release, partial
fasciectomy
RETROCALCANEAL SPURRING
43. ENDOSCOPIC PLANTAR FASCIOTOMY (EPF) 46. RETROCALCANEAL EXOSTECTOMY
(+)- less post-op pain, less soft tissue damage Etiology- equinus, variant arthritides, trauma
(-)- more technically demanding Non- Sx Tx- ¼ “heel lift, NSAID, SLC, steroid injection
Ind- at least 6-9 months of conservative tx w/o relief Try conservative treatment for at least 3 months
Contra- pt w/ atypical heel pain, abnormal EMG of foot, Procedure Incision: split TA or Zadek, lateral to
dysvascular foot Achilles
Procedure Arthroscope inserted through lateral portal Remove spur w/ osteotome (ALWAYS
w/ probe through medial portal (to plantar to dorsal) or w/ rongeur
determine length of plantar fascia) Rasp until smooth
Dorsiflex ankle & toes to put tension on Post-Op- repair TA w/ Mitek anchor p.r.n., BK (some AK)
plantar fascia & bulge FDB cast NWB 4-6 wks
Incise lateral border of pre-measured cut, Comp- stress Fx, inadequate resection, tendonitis, tendon
releasing plantar fascia lateral to medial rupture, anchor failure
Release of portion of deep abductor fascia
METATARSUS ADDUCTUS
CALCANEAL HYPEROSTOSES
Def- “pump bump” at posterior/superior/lateral calcaneus
Etiology- pathobiomechanics in rearfoot + constant, chronic
irritation
Dx Philip-Fowler angle- pathologic if > 75˚
Pavlov’s Parallel Pitch Lines- anything above the
superior line is pathological
Total angle= FF angle +Calcaneal inclination angle-
pathologic if > 90˚
Non Sx Tx- ¼ “heel lift, NSAID, SLC, orthoses, steroid
injection
51. YOUNG
Def- soft tissue procedure/medial column stabilizer
Ind- adjunct, operative Tx of pes valgo planus, for pt
greater than 10 y/o
Contra- normal pes planus
Procedure Incision: from 1st MT-cuneiform to medial
malleolus
Tendo achilles lengthening
Tib anterior rerouted through key hole in
navicular
TP reefing (reattach plantarly)
49. LEPIRD Modification- Split TA & pass only half through keyhole
Age- 7-adult Post-Op- BK cast 6 wks, f/u w/ shoe wedging and PT
Procedure Incision: 3 or 5 dorsal incision approach Comp- navicular Fx, tendon problems, subluxation
1st & 5th MT closing base wedge w/ base
lateral w/ medial hinge left intact Osseous
2nd, 3rd, 4th MT osteotomy from dorsal- General
distal to proximal-lateral keeping cortex Age- late teen – adult
intact, angled 45˚ to the perpendicular of Ind- long standing flatfoot, faults & DJD on X-ray, RF in
shaft (proximal portion of osteotomy no rigid valgus, PTTD symptoms, tendonitis, & sinus tarsitis
closer than1cm from base) Procedure- usually combined w/ TAL & desmoplasty,
2-4 MT one screw is driven into bone graft used prn to prevent shortening
osteotomy w/o tightening; lateral cortex is Fixate- 6.5, 7.0, 7.3 screws or stables
broken & MT are moved lat Screws are Post-Op- NWB, BK cast for up to 12 wks or until bone
tightened healing on X-ray
Fixation- 2.0, 2.4, or 2.7 K-wire Comp- mal-union, bone graft failure
52. LOWMAN - TN fusion, reroute TA under navicular and 56. SILVER
suture to spring ligament. Def-varus producing posterior
calcaneal osteotomy w/ lateral
53. HOKE opening wedge
Def- navicular, 1st, 2nd cuneiform fusion Ind- Sx correction of pes valgo
Indications- adult and adolescent pes valgo planus planus deformity (frontal plane
stabilizes the medial column to lengthen the lever arm of dominant), stable MTJ
the muscles affecting the longitudinal arch (used almost Procedure Lateral approach w/
exclusively as an adjunct procedure in combination w/ L-shaped incision
ankle equinus correction and calcaneal osteotomy) Opening wedge
osteotomy w/ base
lateral
Comp- dehiscence
57. DWYER
Def- varus producing posterior calcaneal medial closing
wedge osteotomy
Ind- Sx correction of pes valgo planus deformity (frontal
54. MILLER - navicular, 1st cuneiform, & 1st MT base fusion plane dominance)
Procedure Medial approach w/ L incision
Other Closing wedge osteotomy w/ base medial
Modified Hoke/Miller- arthrodesis of the NC joint, opening Post-Op- BK NWB cast 6-12 wks
wedge osteotomy of the first cuneiform and distal advancement Comp- difficulty in approach, nerve entrapment
of an osteoperiosteal flap to include the plantar CN ligament
58. KOUTSUGIANNIS
FLATFOOT PROCEDURES - CALCANEAL OSTEOTOMIES Def- arcuate through and
55. EVANS through posterior osteotomy w/
Def- anterior calcaneal osteotomy w/ wedge insertion medial transposition
lengthens lateral column
Ind- pathologic pes valgo planus (transverse plane
dominant)
Contra- flatfoot caused by neurologic disorders, < 6 y/o,
supra-torsional abnormalities
Procedure Determine compensated MTA prior to Sx ATHROEREISIS
Incision: oblique proximal to Def- “joint lifting” to prevent
calcaneocuboid joint (avoiding sural n.) abnormal joint motion (valgus at STJ), used in conjunction w/
Retract peroneal tendons inferiorly either Kidner or Young procedure
Retract EDB superiorly
Osteotomy 1-1.5 cm proximal to calc-cuboid Goal to prevent lateral talar process from dropping into the
joint (through and through) calcaneal sulcus
Insert trapezoidal graft (ideally from iliac stabilize STJ decrease heel valgus stabilize
crest) MTJincrease efficiency of peroneus longus PF
Perform medial arch tendosuspension & 1st ray stabilize medial column + increase arch
TAL as adjuncts height
Other
Hibbs- EDL is used for tenodesis of midfoot (3rd cuneiform) Post-Op
Combined Hibbs & Jones tendosuspension 1. Drain for 24-48 hrs
2. Posterior splint for up to 2 wks
67. COLE 3. NWB BK cast for 6 wks
Def- dorsiflexory wedge through midfoot 4. WB BK cast for 6 wks
Ind- Ruch 3, severe anterior cavus, severe NM disease Comp- non-union, mal-union, varus, fuse wrong joint (do
Procedure Incision- same incision as HH&S diagnostic injection)
Dorsiflexory wedge of midtarsus w/ through
& through cut extending from cuboid 69. STJ ARTHRODESIS
through cuneiform-navicular joints Procedure Incision- Ollier or lateral linear (reflect EHB
Fixation- staples Resect cartilage from talus & calcaneus
Post-Op- NWB BK cast for at least 6 wks using osteotome, power or curette
Comp- DJD, deformed foot, neuroma, tendon problems, Pack w/ bone chips to increase healing and
non-union, fixation failure to maintain height
Position at 5˚ valgus
Fixation- 6.5, 7.0, or 7.3 from dorsal to plantar thru
posterior facet (can also use staples)
70. AJ ARTHRODESIS
Procedure Incision- Kocher, or from fibula to 4th MT
base
68. JAPAS Remove at least 2 cm of fibula & retain
Ind- Ruch 3, severe NM disease Remove top of talus & tibial plafond
Procedure Incision: 1. 1st cuneiform-navicular Resect ~1cm medial malleolus (prn)
2. 2nd & 3rd cuneiform-navicular Pack all voids w/ bone chips
3. 4th & 5th MT base-cuboid Position TP: 5-10˚ ext, or matched to opposite limb
Thru & thru “V” cut w/ apex in navicular FP: 5-10˚ of valgus
Medial arm through 1st cuneiform SP: 0˚
Lateral arm through cuboid Talus- 10mm posterior to tibia (will ↑ lever
Slide FF inferior and dorsiflex arm & ↓ stress distally)
Fixation- 2 Steinman pins or 7/64 pins Fixation- 6.5, 7.0, or 7.3 cannulated, crossed angled down
Post-Op- NWB BK cast for at least 6 wks or put both in from talus on lateral side & up into tibia
Comp- DJD, deforms foot, neuroma, tendon problems,
non-union, fixation failure
71. TRIPLE ARTHRODESIS 72. LATERAL STABILIZATION
Procedure Incision- Kocher or 2 Incision approach: Single Ligament Replacement- peroneus brevis is used as an
curvilinear for STJ & CCJ; dorsomedial for autogenous graft for recreating the CFL or ATFL
TNJ (order varies)
Fusion order: CCJ>STJ>TNJ 1.WATSON-JONES
Fixation- 6.5, 7.0, or 7.3 (or can use stables) Procedure Graft is inserted through a drill hole in fibula
1. Ryerson (top of page) (postant) approximately 2 cm from distal
2. Hoke- Head & neck of talus are used as a bone graft tip of malleolus
Pass tendon through hole drilled in talar
3. Lambrinudi- Good procedure for drop foot
neck (dorsal plantar)
Return tendon through fibula (ant post)
2. EVANS
Procedure Drill hole through fibula
Tendon fed through hole & secured
4. Brewster countersink- posteriorly at proximal portion of superior
peroneal retinaculum
6. Seiffert (beak)-
4. NILSONNE
Procedure Detach PB at level of musculotendinous
junction
Proximally, PB is sutured to PL
While distal tendon is placed in a
subperiosteal groove through fibula
(posterosuperior to anteroinferior)
Double Ligament Replacement - designed to address chronic 7. SPLIT PERONEUS LONGUS
injury of both ATF & CF ligaments Procedure Tendon identified & severed from muscle
belly at proximal aspect free up distally
1. CHRISTMAN & SNOOK Periosteal channel is created in talar neck
Procedure Split PB tendon graft is harvested from End of tendon is passed through
proximal aspect of tendon Then through a trephine hole in fibula
Graft is routed through talar neck & then (antpost)
through distal fibula at it’s widest (anterior Bone plug is replaced in fibula
posterior) Then passed through trephine hole in
Graft is then sutured to a periosteal flap calcaneus
created at the level of CF lig Plug replaced recreates CF lig
Last suture the distal end of graft onto itself
3. HAMBLY
Procedure Split PL & suture it to lateral talar neck
Then passed tendon from
anteriorposterior through fibula
Graft is then fixated to calcaneofibular 2. Cummins
ligament insertion
4. WINFIELD
Procedure same as Hambly, but use PB instead of PL
3. Hoke- triple
hemisection slide
6. SEEBURGER
Procedure Hemisection of PL as free graft to
reconstruct ATF & CF lig
5. Baker- distal tongue-in-groove
2ND DEGREE AV BLOCK (TYPE I): Here the conduction delay occurs
in the AV node. It is characterized by progressively lengthening PR
intervals that result eventually in entirely missed beats. It usually is a
sign of ischemia, typically in the area of distribution of the rt.
coronary artery, or of
PRE-VENTRICULAR CONTRACTIONS (PVCS): form from an irritable medication.
focus in the ventricles. The normal rate of ventricular contraction
originating from the VA node when the SA node is malfunctioning is
only 20-40 bpm. The distinguishing feature on EKG is that PVCs
show an elongated QRS complex (>0.12 sec) with a compensatory
pause. Like PAC, PVC is a single beat, so rate and rhythm are not
affected. It is also a normal finding that can be brought on by
exercise, hypoxia, stress, and excess catecholamines. Tx depends on
the S/Sx; usually no tx is 2ND DEGREE AV BLOCK (TYPE II): Here the conduction delay
required. occurs somewhere below the AV node, usually the bundle branches.
The bundle branches are supplied by the left coronary artery and are
injured in anterior wall infarcts. The EKG shows variably displaced
or absent P waves and QRS complexes. This condition may progress
suddenly to a complete AV block. Tx is by pacemaker; otherwise the
prognosis is very bad.
Other ANAEROBES:
CLEOCIN (Clindamycin) Macrolide
• Most G +, Anaerob, NO MRSA, Clostridia
• 600 – 900mg IV/IM q8h
• 150-300mg PO bid or tid for outpatient
• OK for renal pt, good bone penetration
Metronidazole: 1g bolus, 500mg IV q6h over 1hr
PCN --- UNASYN (Ampicillin/Sulbactam) B-Lactamase combo
• G +, some G -, great Anaerob, Entero, NO MRSA
• Emperic Rx for bite wounds
• 1.5-3g IV / IM q6h
• dec dose if CrCl drops below 30-50ml/min
Gram + general:
• Ancef: 1g IV/IM q8h 1 hour prior to sx
• Keflex: 500mg po qid
• Dicloxicillin: 500mg po qid
• Clindamycin: 600mg IV q8h (PCN all) 300mg po qid
• Vancomycin: 1g IV q12h over 1hr (PCN all)
Gram – general:
• Levaquin: 500mg po/IV qd
Clostridium (Anaerobic)
Perfringes – gas gangrene, liquefaction necrosis, and hemolysis from α-toxins
Difficile – pseudomem colitis – exotoxin kills enterocytes, need 3 neg toxin screens to clear
Botulinum – food poison – flaccid paralysis – heat-labile toxin inhibits Ach release (anti-
SLUDGE)
Tetanus – CNS – exotoxin blocks glycine release from Renshaw cells in spinal cord – titanic
paralysis
Thanks Mikey!:
Remember that all narcotic brand names that end with "-cet" have Tylenol in them, while ending with "-
dan" is ASA. Ex - Percocet has Tylenol, Percodan has ASA
NON-Codeine STUUD
STADOL (butorphanol) (opioid agonist-antagonist)
0.5-2mg IV or 1-4mg IM q3-4h prn pain
TORADOL (ketorolac/NSAID)
*30mg IV bolus or 60mg IM over at least 15sec
15-30 mg IV/IM q6h or 10mg PO q4-6h prn moderately severe acute pain… do not exceed 5 days
renal toxic
starts in 30min-1h, duration = 4-6h
10mg PO q4-6h prn pain
max daily dose = 120mg
*ULTRAM (tramadol)
50-100mg PO q4-6h prn mod-sev pain. Max = 400 mg/d
ULTRACET (tramadol 37.5mg + tylenol 325mg)
2 tabs PO q4-6h prn acute pain. Max = 8 tabs/day X 5d
*DARVOCET (propoxyphene + tylenol)
50/325 (N50) 1-2 tabs PO q4h prn pain
100/500 (N100) 1 tab PO q4h prn pain
DEMEROL (meperidine)
1-1.8 mg/kg up to 150mg IM/SC/PO or slow IV q3-4h
75mg IV/IM/SC = 300mg PO
Random:
ETOMIDATE – good to knock out pt for 5-10 min… you cant push this… ER doc has to… 10mg is
good… (sedative like Propofol)
NSAIDS:
COX 1 groups:
Salicylic Acid: ASA, diflunisal
Proprionic Acid: ibuprofen, naproxen
Acetic Acids: ketorolac(toradol), indomethacin, sulindac
TORDADOL – Strong, IM / IV / PO 15-30mg q6h
Do not exceed 5 days in a row Renal
Fenamates: meclofenamate
Oximcam: meloxicam
3 things you will get called for if not in orders:
Sleep: Ambien PO qhs prn sleep
Pain:
* Morphine IV 2-4mg q2-4h prn severe pain
* Percocet PO 5/325mg q4-6h prn moderate pain
N/V: Phenergan IM 12.5mg q4-6h prn N/V
Alarm Limits
LOW HIGH
Systolic 85 150
Diastolic 50 100
Rate 50 110
spO2 92 100
Diagnosis: venogram is gold standard, Doppler is non-invasive, Homan’s and Pratt’s sign, apply tourniquet
above suspected thrombosis pain at level of clot in 30-45 sec.
PE Dx: gold standard = V/Q scan (ventilation / perfusion), spiral CT is very common 1st line, ST segment
depression, dec pO2, pCO2, pH.
Prophylaxis: TED stockings, elevation of legs with knees flexed, early mobilization
Heparin 5000 units SQ bid or beginning 1 hour pre-op, then 5000 units SQ q12h until pt
ambulates
Lovenox 30mg SQ bid
STUFF------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASA:
1. Healthy
2. Mild systemic Dz
3. Severe systemic Dz
4. Severe systemic Dz + constant threat to life
5. Morbid, will not survive w/o Sx
6. Brain Dead (organ donor)
Mallampati:
1. Entire uvula and tonsilar pillars visible
2. Tip of uvula and pillars hidden by tongue
3. Only soft palate visible
4. Only hard palate visible
History reminders:
CC, HPI – onset, duration, type, trauma, radiating, exacerbates, relieves, pain 10/10, previous episodes,
severity, previous tx…
PMH, Meds, Allergies, Hospitalizations, Illness
SurgHx
SocHx – smoke, drink, drugs
FamHx – DM, HTN, cancer…
ROS – gen, skin, nodes, EENT, Breast, resp, cv, gi, gu, heme, endocrine, m/s, psych, neuron
Residency Interview System of Thought: remember, they would rather you ask too many questions in the
history than not ask enough… they will stop you… don’t ask for stuff you don’t need, cuz then your just
guessing… they will let you dig your own hole, but will not lead you astray…
On the phone with ER ask stable?, fever?, N/V intact?, get x-rays, CBC w/diff, CMP, blood
cultures if appropriate (f/n/v, taken from 2 diff spots 20 min apart)… go ahead and get the ball rolling
before u get there… 23h admit, IV Abx… start thinking empiric…
1. NLDOCAT – how long ago, where, pain, cause, did you walk on it, NPO status!, tried to treat it
yet, something makes it worse, better? Infxn – had an ulcer before?, past Tx for it? Failed oral
Abx?...
2. PMH, PSH, All, Med, SocHx, NPO if you forgot
3. Hx of MRSA Vanc and Zosyn… MRE Linezolid(Invanz) or Zyvox… 1st time infxn
Unasyn
4. PE: vitals, vasc, neuro, derm, ortho…
a. if no pulse Doppler, if not TcPO2
b. open wound?, edema, eccymosis, erythema, digits cyanotic
c. Probe to Bone? (89% +), undermine, fibrotic, granular, proximal streaking
d. odor? (fruity - pseudo, pungeont – gas gangrene),
e. drainage – purulent, serosanguinous, serous, dirty dishwater clostridium
f. ortho – dislocated, gross deformity, pain out of proportion, ROM, POP
i. piano key test – DF/PF digits pain = compartment syndrome
g. Imaging – XR (most everything), MRI (infxn), CT (calc fx, pilon)
h. Labs – CBC w diff, CMP
i. Closed Reduction:
i. Charnley’s 4 steps – increase deformity, distract, decrease deformity,
cast/splint
ii. Put on hrt monitor, pulse Ox, O2 (nasal cannula)
iii. What was given to pt in ER??
iv. Push 2 & 2 or 3 & 3 mg Morphine and Versed or have ER doc give them
Etomodate
5. Be prepared to reverse both of these meds Naloxone (Initial dose = 0.4 mg. May repeat every
2-3 min @ doses of 0.4-2 mg) and Flumazenil (Initial Dose = 0.2mg. May repeat at 1 min
intervals to dose of 1mg)
6. IV Abx, Pain Meds…
7. Schedule for Sx I & D, Amputation, ORIF…
50. At what stage of intrauterine development do the lower limb buds first appear? 5th Week
51. Where is the tubercle of Tillaux-Chaput? Tibial side of the distal tibio-fibular joint.
52. Ligaments making up the Deltoid?
Tibio-Navicular Ant. Talo-Tib
Calcaneo-Tibial Superficial Deep Post. Talo-Tib
Posterior Talo-Tibial
53. Pneumonic for Diagnosis Options in most cases? TICAN
Trauma, Infxn, Congenital, Acquired, Neoplasm
54. Why can’t you give NSAID’s to Asthma pts? COX inhibition converts Arachidonic Acid Pathway to
produce more Leukotrienes, which are BronchoCONSTRICTORS!
55. Pyoderma Gangrenosum? Nodule or pustule that breaks down raised, inflammatory border,
boggy, necrotic base, pearly, rolls in, punched out, purulent drainage with hemorrhagic exudate, dusky
red/PURPLE border. Associated with inflammatory disorders (Crohns, IBS, UC, RA). Histo – see mostly
neutrophils. Tx – oral steroids, sulfa drugs, cyclosporine. PAPA syndrome –Pyogenic Arthritis,
Pyoderma, cystic Acne
56. Where can these ligaments be found?
Spring – from sust. Tali navicular tuberosity
Short Plantar – from ant. Tubercle of plantar calc. proximal aspect of peroneal ridge on cuboid
Long Plantar – from dist. Posterior aspect of medial calcaneal tuberosity peroneal ridge (cuboid) and
radiating to base of 2-5 MT’s
57. Nutrient a’s to these bones come from what a?
Tibia – Post. Tibial a
Fibula – Peroneal a
Femur – Perforating branch of profunda femoral a.
58. Major pronator of foot? Peroneus Brevis
59. How does insulin work? Stimulates glycolysis & inhibits gluconeogenesis
60. Clinical findings of Osteogenesis Imperfecta? Multiple fx’s and blue sclerae
61. Syphilis caused by? Treponema Pallidum
62. 3o syphilis characterized by? Neuro-syphilis (tabes dorsalis), gummas, argyl-robertson pupil
63. Boney lesions presenting “codman’s triangle”? osteosarcoma and chondrosarcoma
64. Characteristic radiographic findings of:
giant cell tumor “soappy bubble appearance” with lytic borders
UBC fallen fragment sign
OsteoChondroma pointing away from adjacent joint
65. Dosage for:
Amoxicillin – 250-500 mg pot id
Pen G – 12-24 million u / day divided by q4-6h
Timentin – 3.1 gram IV q4-6h
Zosyn – 3.375 gm IV q4-6h or 4.5 gm IV q8h
Unasyn – 1.5-3.0 gm IV q6h
Augmentin – 875 mg po bid
Erythromycin – 250-500 mg po qid
Vanc – 1g IV q12h (or 125 mg po qid for c. diff only)
Clinda – 600 mg IV q8h or 300 mg PO bid-tid
66. Drugs active against Pseudomonas? Fortaz, Aminoglycosides, Ticarcillin(Timentin), Clindamycin,
Imipenem (Primaxin), Aztreonam
67. Peak/Troughs? (ug/ml)
Vanc - 25-40 / 10
Gent - 4-10 / 2
68. Which agents would you use for a pt with lime dz? Tetracycine’s
69. According to Ruedi & Allgower, what 4 principle steps must be followed in ORIF of comminuted Fxs
of distal tibia?
1. Reconstruction of Fibula
2. Reconstruction of Lower articular surface of Tibia
3. Packing in of cancellous bone
4. Stabilization of medial aspect of tibia
70. Tx for Abx induced Diarrhea? D/C Abx, no anti-diarrheal agents, fluid/electrolyte support, Metro 500
mg po q8h or Vanc 125 mg po q6h
71. Local Anesthetics Type and metabolism?
Ester (met by plasma esterases): Procaine, Cocaine,
Chlorprocaine, Tetracaine
AmIde (met by liver enzymes) {2 I’s}: Lidocaine, Mepivacaine,
Pilocaine, Bupivicaine, Etidocaine, Ropicacaine
72. Maximum Dose of Lidocaine and Marcaine?
Lidocaine 4.5 mg/kg………7.0 w epi
Marcaine 2.5 mg/kg……….3.2 w epi
73. Abx for MRSA? Vanc, Minocycline, Cipro/Rifampin, Bactrim/Rifampin, Linizolid, Cynercid
74. Dosage for:
Ambien – 5-10 mg po qhs prn insomnia (non-BZD hypnotic)
Benadryl – adult = 25-50mg po tid prn pruritis
Peds = 12.5-25mg pot id prn pruritis
Compazine – 50-100mg po q4-6h or 50mg IM q4-6h prn N/V
Percocet – 1-2 po q4-6h prn pain
75. Analgesic for Codeine/Morphine Allergic pt?
Darvon: 65mg po q4h
Darvon-N: 100mg po q4h
76. Thurston-Holland sign? Spike of metaphyseal bone attached to the fractured epiphysis seen in salter
harris 2 fractures.
77. Johnson & Strom Classification System? PTTD
Stage 1: tendon normal, peritendonitis, mild weakness on single heel raise test, normal hindfoot alignment.
Tx = break cycle of inflammation with 3-6 months of rest, NSAID’s, orthoses, synovectomy, tendon
debridement, BK cast 3w.
Stage 2: tendon elongated, mobile valgus RF, more POP to tendon, FF abduction (TMT sign), marked
weakness on single heel raise test, XR signs of pronation, MRI discontinuity, balling up of tendon. Tx =
FDL transfer to nav, BK cast 6w + PT, Kidner, Young, STJ arthroeresis, Evans, Dwyer, Medial slide.
Stage 3: elongated tendon, stiff valgus RF, more TMT sign. XR stage 2 + DJD. Tx = STJ arthroeresis
Stage 4: (added by Myerson) AJ involvement valgus. Tx = pantalar or tibio-talo-calcaneal fusion.
78. What is Basset’s Lesion? Lesion on ant dorsal lateral aspect of articular cartilage of talus caused by
rubbing from hypertrophic anterior inferior tib-fib ligament.
79. Brodies Abscess? Foci of bone destruction caused by OM filled with pus or connective tissue.
80. Charcot’s Triad? Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis consisting of nystagmus, intention tremor, scanning
speech
81. Coleman Block Test? Determines if associated varus deformity of the RF is flexible or rigid. Place
pts foot on wooden block one inch thick (placing heel and lateral foot on block and medial MT heads off
block) if RF corrects, it’s a FLEXIBLE condition.
82. What is a Crescent Sign? Early sign of AVN which represents a subchondral Fx through insertion of
the individual trabeculae.
83. Crowe’s Sign? Axillary freckling, pathognomonic for Von Recklinghausen’s dz.
84. LE pathology occurring with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome? Ligamentous laxity resulting in flat feet, genu
valgum, congenital hip dislocation, scoliosis.
85. Possible causes for foot drop? CVA, Trauma, CMT, Polio, Freidrichs Ataxia, Infxn, Guillian-Barre
Syndrome, Dejerine-Sottas Syndrome, Spinal Tumor/lesion.
86. What is the Hubscher Maneuver? DF the hallux in WB, the arch will rise due to windlass mechanism
if no osseous restrictions are present.
87. What is the Kelikian Test? Tests whether or not the MPJ is reducible. Push up on plantar surface of
MT head and see if toe straitens out.
88. Another name for the Intermediate Dorsal Cutaneous N? Lemont’s nerve
89. What is Marjolin’s Ulcer? A SCC that arises in chronic sinus due to OM. Must be long standing tract.
90. What is MosaicPlasty? OATS, Transplantation of cartilage and bone by way of a plug to fill a defect
caused by OCD.
91. Name the material utilized to make Abx impregnated beads? Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA)
92. Requirements for Abx to be used in Abx impregnated beads? Broad spectrum, low allergenic, heat
stable, ability to leach from cement.
93. Floor and Roof of Porta Pedis? ABductor Hallucis floor, Quadratus Plantae roof
94. Somogyi Effect? Rebound phenomenon occurring in diabetics who take too much insulin in the
evening resulting in hyperglycemia in the morning. When blood glucose levels drop too low, the body
sometimes reacts by releasing counterregulatory hormones such as glucagon and epinephrine. These
hormones spur the liver to convert its stores of glycogen into glucose, raising blood glucose levels. This can
cause a period of high blood sugar following an episode of hypoglycemia.
95. Turk’s Test? Test whether n is entrapped due to varicosities beneath retinaculum. + if symptoms
increase once tourniquet is inflated above venous pressure but below arterial pressure proximal to site of
suspected entrapment.
96. Virchow’s Triad? Stasis, blood vessel injury, hypercoag
97. Valleix’s & Tinel’s sign? V – Proximal. T – Distal
98. Normal WBC count? 5,000 – 10,000 cells/ul
99. Normal Hemoglobin & Hematocrit Values?
Male 14-18 g/dl & 40-54%
Female 12-16 g/dl & 37-47%
100. What tests are in a CBC w/diff? WBC, RBC, Hgb, Hct, MCH, MCHC, MCV, Platelets, Segmented
Neutrophils, Eosinophils, Basophils, Lymphocytes, Monocytes
101. Normal PT and PTT values?
PT = 10.1-13.1 sec PTT = 23.5-34.3 sec
102. Tx for Malignant hyperthermia? Stop Anesthetic, Hyperventilate with 100% O2, Cool the pt,
Dantrolene sodium.
103. Dosing regimen for Dantrolene Sodium?
Intra-Op Crisis: 1mg/kg continuous Rapid IV Push until symptoms subside or max dose of 10mg/kg
reached
Post-Op Crisis: 4-8mg/kg/day po in 4 divided doses X 1-3 days
Pre-Op Prophylaxis: 4-8mg/kg/day po in 4 divided doses for 1-2 days prior to Sx with last dose 3-4 hrs
before scheduled Sx. Or 2.5mg/kg IV approx 1hr before anticipated anesthesia.
104. Causes of Post-Op Fever? (5 W’s)
Wind (12-24h) – atelectasis, post-op hyperthermia
Walk (24h) – Thrombophlebitis, PE
Water (2d) – UTI
Wound (3d) – Infxn
Wonder Drug (anytime) – Drug Fever (PCN…)
105. 4 Reasons for severe intractable pain post-op? Sutures too tight, constrictive dressings, hematoma,
ischemia
106. Tx for White Toe after surgery? D/C ice and elevation, place foot in dependent position, loosen
bandage, warm compress proximal to N/V bundle, piston/rotate toe on k-wire, local nerve block proximal
to area, vascular consult.
107. Differentiate between blue toe due to venous vs arterial insufficiency? Venous warm & may
blanch with pressure. Arterial cold and does not blanch with pressure.
108. How many grams of carbohydrate are found in one liter of D5W? 50gm
109. Indications for AJ fusion? Arthrosis, severe angular deformity, irreparable acute trauma, bone tumor,
chronic OM, failed AJ prosthesis, Paralytic deformities, salvage of avn of talar body.
110. Other name for clubfoot? TEV
111. Primary defect in clubfoot? Talar head and neck
112. Adduction of talar head/neck in transverse plane on body?
Norm = 15-20 deg. TEV = 80-90 deg.
113. Types of Clubfoot?
Congenital Intrinsic(rigid) & Extrinsic(supple)
Acquired
114. Classic Components of Clubfoot? FF ADDuction, RF Varus, RF or Ankle Equinus
115. AP TC angle, norm and Clubfoot?
Norm = 20-40 deg. TEV = 0 deg
116. Factors Delaying Surgical Wound Healing?
Local: incisions improperly placed within RSTL’s, Tissue Trauma to Wound lobes, improper irrigation
(FB in wound), inadequate hemostasis, desiccation of tissues during surgery, infxn, prolonged dependency,
local corticosteroids
Systemic: uncontrolled DM, EtOH, malnutrition/malabsorption, steroids, anemia, platelet inhibiting drugs,
obesity, age, hepatic dz
117. Goals of AO? Anatomic Reduction, Atraumatic Technique, Stable internal fixation, early active
mobilization
118. Ideal fixation for physeal fx’s? smooth K-wire
119. Composition of Orthosorb pin? Poly-O-Dioxanone
120. How are bioabsorbable materials discarded by the body? Degraded by hydrolysis – eventually
entering into KREB’s cycle and excreted into urine, feces, or expired CO2.
121. Advantages of biodegradable fixation?
Avoids stress shielding or stress protection osteopenia
Eliminates burden of secondary procedure
Does not lead to image artifacts when using MRI or CT post implantation
May be left in sites of infection as implants are bacteriostatic!
122. How long will suture maintain its strength? ~60d
123. Secondary causes of DM? Pancreatic dz, hormonal (cushings, acromegaly, pheochromocytoma),
drug induced, genetic syndromes.
124. Diagnostic tests for DM? Hemoglobin A1C, oral glucose tolerance test, fasting BS > 140 mg/dl on
more than 1 occasion
125. What is Whipples Triad? Whipple's triad or Whipple's criteria refers to three conditions that are
considered by physicians necessary for proving hypoglycemia as the cause of a person's symptoms.
6 5 4 3 2 1
Oriented, Utters
Confused, Incomprehensible Makes no
Verbal N/A converses inappropriate
disoriented sounds sounds
normally words
PROGRESS NOTES
You will write progress notes on both clinic and in-house patients on a daily basis. All
notes must be co-signed by a resident. All notes will be in the S.O.A.P. format. This is
also the way in which you will present patients to attendings and residents when and if the
situation arises. While visiting, we expect the student to be preparing to become a
resident which includes working up and presenting cases including differentials, offering
treatment options and requesting ancillary testing when appropriate.
POST-OP NOTES
The format is easily remembered by the mnemonic SAPPPPAHEMIC:
S: Surgeon
A: Assistants
P: Pre-operative diagnosis
P: Post-operative diagnosis
P: Procedure(s)
P: Pathology specimens sent (bone, C&S, aerobic, anaerobic cx)
A: Anesthesia (general, local w/IV sedation)
H: Hemostasis (tourniquet - location and duration)
E: Estimated blood loss
M: Materials (sutures, wires, pins, implants, drains, etc)
1
I: Injectables (local anesthesia, steroids)
C: Complications (none)
Then, briefly describe the patient’s condition post-op: “The pt. tolerated the procedure(s)
and anesthesia well and was transported from the O.R. to the R.R. (recovery room) with
VSS (vital signs stable) and VSI (vasc. status intact) to all digits of the______ foot.”
ADMISSION/POST-OP ORDERS
Admissions orders are done primarily through the CARE computer system and will be
done by the resident.
PRE-OP NOTE
This is a checklist to ensure and document all the necessary preparations have been made.
Surgeon:
Pre-op diagnosis: _____________________
Procedure: _______________________
Consent: (give status--signed & on chart or pending)
CXR: (give results)
EKG: (give results)
Labs: (give all values: chem 7, cbc, PT, PTT, INR)
Abx
Pneumatic stockings
Sub Q heparin
Consult reports: (if necessary)
“Pt. clear for O.R. in AM/this afternoon/etc.”
“All risks, benefits, and complications have been explained to the patient, and
no guarantees have been made.”
ADMISSION NOTE
2
The admission note is the most involved of all the charting requirements. It closely
resembles the detailed H & P’s you perform on new clinic patients at school. This note
must be written within 24 hours of admission, as it provides a guide to the treatment plan.
You will help the resident perform H & P’s, and you will have the opportunity to write
admit notes.
OPERATIVE NOTE
Following each procedure, the surgeon must dictate a detailed narrative of the
proceedings of the surgery. The standard format is:
Patient’s name and Medical Record Number
Date of Surgery, Surgeon, Assistant(s)
Pre-op Diagnosis, Post-op Diagnosis, Procedure(s)
Anesthesia, Hemostasis
Detailed description of procedures (includes induction of sedation or general anesthesia,
local anesthetic techniques, preparation and draping, and the procedure)
LABWORK SKELETONS
Any other lab results or values are merely listed. Do not write that a lab is “WNL” and
do not leave empty skeletons on a note.
The last few pages have been more than enough to swallow at one sitting. We do not
expect you to be proficient at charting prior to your arrival - that is one of the things you
are coming here to learn.
POST-OP NOTE
S: Surgeon
A: Assistants
P: Pre-operative diagnosis
3
P: Post-operative diagnosis
P: Procedure(s)
P: Pathology specimens sent
A: Anesthesia
H: Hemostasis
E: Estimated Blood Loss
M: Materials
I: Injectables
C: Complications
The patient tolerated the procedure(s)
and anesthesia well and was transported
from the O.R. to the R.R. with VSS and
VSI to all digits of the ___ foot.
ADMISSION ORDERS
Reading an X-ray
Unfortunately, many students find this to be one of the most difficult concepts to grasp
while in school and on rotations. However, like most educational opportunities in life, if
you can learn to organize your thoughts while staring at a radiograph, reading it becomes
much easier. There are 5 basic steps to reading an x-ray and this includes the way in
which it should be presented.
1. Overall quality- type of view (DP, Lat, Oblique), which foot, weight bearing, if
there is adequate penetration, labeled correctly, etc.
2. Soft tissue- increased contour in a certain area, increased density, tissue
emphysema, foreign body, tissue planes, etc.
4
3. Bone- are all cortices intact, periosteal reaction, density, etc.
4. Joint spaces- increase/decrease in joint space, changes in contour, etc.
5. Biomechanical exam- abnormal angles, cavus foot, pes planus, etc.
The important thing is to have a picture in your head of what “normal” is and work
slowly (to begin with) through each of the steps. Remember not to let your eyes be drawn
to the obvious. Keep in mind the clinical exam and have an idea of what to expect to see
prior to looking at the radiograph. Following those steps gives you an organized way to
not only inspect each radiograph but to organize your thoughts when presenting it.
Dermatology
Ulcers
Arterial Ulcers
These occur distal to impaired arterial supply most commonly on the lateral aspect of the
leg, when presenting on the lower extremity. However, they can occur anywhere that is
susceptible to trauma such as the IPJ’s of the toes. Wound margins are even, sharply
demarcated and punched out. These have minimum exudate and are very painful.
Venous Ulcers
The medial ankle is the most common location. They are mostly superficial. Moderate to
heavy exudate. The ulcers tend to be large with irregular margins. Often surrounded by
and associated with dermatitis and hyperpigmentation.
5
Grade 2: Deep ulcer through dermis possibly exposing tendon, ligament or joint capsule
Grade 3: Deep ulcer with abscess, osteomyelitis or joint sepsis (polymicrobial infections
with increased number of gram – and anaerobic species)
Grade 4: Localized gangrene (forefoot or heel)
Grade 5: Gangrene of the foot
Vascular
A thorough and adequate history of the patient’s symptoms should be taken. This will
include symptoms, location, characterization of the symptoms, effect of treatment,
amount of disability, progression of symptoms, associated symptoms and complaints, any
previous studies done.
Ischemic pain associated with a wound is indicative of arterial disease. This type of pain
may include numbness, coldness, burning, and pallor more severe with exercise.
Intermittent claudication is associated with chronic arterial insufficiency. It is experienced
as transient, exercised induced ischemic myalgia. It is most often seen in the calf muscles.
With arterial blockage, this most often one joint or level above the muscle group in which
the symptoms manifest.
Rest pain usually develops as ischemic changes progress. This reflects severe ischemia.
Blood is shunted from the periphery to a more central location when the person is
sleeping. Metabolites build up in the muscle and cause pain. The patient will usually
relate being awakened at night with pain and having to get up or dangle feet.
There are several other symptoms and pieces of information that are related to vascular
disease:
1. Edema
2. History of emboli
3. Color and temperature changes- pallor, cyanosis, petechiae, telangiectasias
4. Trophic changes and hair growth
5. Past medical history- obesity, tobacco use, HTN, DM, age, etc.
6. Ulcerations
7. Gangrene- impairment of circulation
6
8. Palpation of pulses including femoral, popliteal, posterior tibial, dorsalis pedis
(graded according to rhythm, symmetry and amplitude)
Segmental Pressures
These are taken at upper thigh, lower thigh, upper calf and ankle. Criteria based on the 1-
10-20-30 Rule, we can predict potential obstructions.
* An ABI of less than 1 may indicate obstruction.
* The upper thigh pressure should be greater than 10mmHg greater than brachial pressure
* Pressure differences of more than 20 mmHg for adjacent cuff sites on the same leg
* Pressure differences of more than 30 mmHg over the entire leg.
Doppler Signal
These reflect flow velocity. The normal arterial pattern is triphasic. A monophasic signal
indicates pathology.
Neurology
Presenting Problems: Can include pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, unsteadiness, and
involuntary movements.
Physical examination should begin with a good history of the problem at hand. After a
good history is obtained, much information can be obtained simply by observation of the
7
muscles of the lower extremity. Observation can demonstrate muscle atrophy or even
hypertrophy. The examiner can also visualize spasticity or even fasciculations. Muscle
strength can be measured and graded:
0 = no movement
1 = trace movement
2 = movement with the aid of resistance
3 = movement against gravity
4 = movement against resistance supplied by the examiner
5 = normal strength
Observing the patient’s gait can also give clues as to where the problem may originate.
Also to be examined are a patient’s deep tendon reflexes (DTR). The symptoms often
present in a dermatomal fashion, which can give certain clues about possible lesions that
may occur at levels along the CNS.
Certain methods of examination for nerve deficits can be done using equipment such as a
tuning fork to test vibratory sense or a Semmes-Weinstein monofilament (10 g/ 5.07) to
test light touch.
Hoffman-Tinel's sign: A tingling in region of the distribution of the involved nerve with
light percussion, results in paresthesias distal to the site of percussion. Due to nerve
entrapment.
Valleix Phenomena: A nerve trunk tenderness above and below the point of compression,
with paresthesias proximal and distal to the point of percussion.
Electromyography (EMG):
When weakness is clinically difficult to attribute to nerve, muscle, or neuromuscular
junction, electrical studies can establish topographically which nerves and muscles are
affected. In EMG, the recording of electrical properties of muscle is displayed on an
oscilloscope during needle insertion. Denervated muscle is recognized by fibrillations and
fasciculations on the screen.
Nerve Conduction Velocities (NCV):
In nerve conduction studies the time for an impulse to travel along the nerve is termed
the conduction velocity. If there is an increase in this conduction velocity, there is damage
to the particular nerve involved.
Types of Neuropathy
D - diabetic
A - alcohol
N - nutritional
G - Guillan-Barre
T - toxic
H - hereditary
R - recurrent
A - amyloidosis
P - porphyria
8
I - infectious
S - systemic
T - tumor
Manifestations of RSD include pain, first and foremost. The pain is usually excruciating
and can be described as burning, aching or throbbing. The pain can be localized at first
and then begin to spread. It is distal to the site of trauma to begin with but can spread
proximally in later stages.
RSD can also manifest itself with varied vascular related symptoms. Vasodilation can
exhibit warm skin, dry skin, and hypohidrosis. Vasoconstriction can exhibit cyanosis,
cool skin, edema of the part, and hyperhidrosis.
Trophic changes involving the skin, muscles, bone and joints can occur in later stages.
The examiner may see thin, atrophic skin, absent of hair and witness osteoporotic changes
on x-ray.
Treatment, when suspected, should include a pain management/ neurology consult, first
and foremost. Other professionals to get involved with the case could be psychiatry,
anesthesiology and physical therapy. Local anesthetic blocks have been shown to give
some relief and may help in putting a stop to the pain cycle.
9
Hauser’s - the first intermetatarsal space
Heuter’s - the second intermetatarsal space
Morton’s - the third intermetatarsal space
Islen’s - the fourth intermetatarsal space
Anesthesiology
Stages of Anesthesia
Stage 1: Analgesia (characterized by variable degrees of analgesia and amnesia)
Plane 1- Pre-analgesia (normal memory and sensation)
Plane 2- Partial analgesia and amnesia
Plane 3-Total analgesia and amnesia
Stage 2: Delirium (extends from the loss of consciousness until the beginning of surgical
anesthesia) (excitement and voluntary activity marked)
Unconsciousness, irregular breathing, pupils dilated
Esters:
Procaine (Novocaine): most toxic, and is considered the standard in comparing the
potency and toxicity of other local anesthetics used for injections.
10
Esters are hydrolyzed by pseudocholinesterase in the plasma.
Have a high potential for allergenicity associated with PABA.
Amides:
Lidocaine (Xylocaine): shortest duration & fastest action
Bupivicaine (Marcaine): longest duration, least placental transfer, and greatest cardiac
toxicity if given IV
Amides are hydrolyzed in the liver. There is no cross sensitivity between amides and
esters- can be substituted in case of allergy. Should use ½ dose in elderly, debilitated
patients, and patients with hepatic disease. Pain and temperature lost first following nerve
block, with loss of touch & motor function later. Injection into an acidic area (infection)
converts the anesthetic chemically and does not allow for penetration into the cell
membrane, and lessens its effectiveness.
Malignant hyperthermia
Thought to be due to reduction in the reuptake of Ca by the sarcoplasmic reticulum
necessary for the termination of muscle contraction
Clinical features:
Unexplained tachycardia, hypercarbia or tachypnea, acidosis, muscle rigidity even in the
presence of neuromuscular blockade, hypoxemia, ventricular arrhythmias, hyperkalemia,
fever is a late sign
Treatment:
1. Discontinue all anesthetics
2. Dantrolene 2.5 mg/kg IV initially
3. NaHCO3
4. Hyperkalemia corrected with insulin and glucose (no calcium)
5. Arrhythmias treated with procainamide
6. Hyperthermia treated with refrigerated IV fluids, gastric, rectal and bladder lavage with
cold saline, surface cooling with ice
7. Maintain urine output
Analgesics
This is just a short list of some of the most commonly used pain medications for post-
operative and inpatient pain management. Also included are some NSAID’s commonly
used.
11
Dilaudid: 1-4 mg SC/IM/IV q4-6h ; 2-8 mg PO q3-4h
Percocet: (5/325, 7.5/325, 7.5/500, 10/325, 10/650): 1 tab PO q4-6h prn
Oxycontin: (10, 15, 20, 30, 40) 1 tab PO q12h
Darvon: 65 mg PO q4h prn
Darvocet 50 (N-100, A-500): 1 tab PO q4h prn
Demerol: 50-150 mg PO/SC/IM/IV q3-4h (decrease dose if given IV and dilute)
Ketorolac (Toradol): 30-60 mg IM/IV x 1 dose only (do not exceed 5 days duration)
Vicodin (500/5), Vicodin ES (750/7.5), Vicodin HP (660/10): 1-2 tab PO q4-6h
Tylenol #3 (300/30): 1-2 tab PO q4-6h
Ultram (tramadol): 50-100 mg PO q4-6h prn
Motrin (ibuprofen): 400-600 mg PO q6h
Naprosyn (naproxen): 250-500 mg PO q12h
Mobic (meloxicam): 7.5-15 mg PO qd
Celebrex: 200 mg PO q12-24h
Trauma
When describing any fracture, there are 6 characteristics that should be used. This is very
useful when asked to describe a fracture to an attending while on the phone, such as in the
ED at 2 a.m. Just like with an x-ray, organizing your thoughts will allow you to discuss
the fracture in a more decisive manner.
Example: A closed, transverse, through and through, extra-articular fracture of the 5th
metatarsal base that is non-displaced.
Example: A closed, spiral oblique, intra-articular, through and through, displaced fracture
of the distal fibula.
Open Fractures
Type 1:
- Wound less than 1 cm long and clean
- Minor soft tissue damage
- Minimal comminution
Type 2:
- Wound more than 1 cm long without extensive tissue damage, flaps or avulsions
- Slight crush injury with moderate comminution
- Moderate contamination
12
Type 3: Extensive soft tissue damage, including muscles, skin, and neurovascular
structures with a high degree of contamination
Type 3A: Open fractures with adequate soft tissue coverage of bone despite extensive soft
tissue laceration
Type 3B: Open fractures having extensive soft tissue loss with periosteal stripping and
bone exposure. Severe contamination. Severe comminution.
Type 3C: Open fractures associated with arterial damage requiring vascular repair,
regardless of soft tissue coverage
1. Tetanus history
2. Thorough H&P with complete neurological, vascular and musculoskeletal exam
3. Complete x-rays
4. Antibiosis admitted in the ED with cultures
5. Immediate debridement and irrigation
6. All foreign bodies should be removed
7. All marginal and macerated tissue should be debrided and re-debrided as
necessary after 48-72 hours.
8. Types 1, 2 and 3A get delayed primary closure within 5-7 days
9. Types 3B and 3C usually require skin flaps due to such a loss of tissue
10. External fixation for all type 3 and unstable type 2 fractures
11. Internal fixation should be used for articular and metaphyseal open fractures,
preferably within 8 hours.
TIG is only given in patients (any age) when they have never received a tetanus shot
(usually pediatric patients)
Compartment Syndrome
This diagnosis should always be considered in a patient experiencing pain and swelling
post trauma. This should be considered a clinical diagnosis (it can be measured, however)
and is also considered a surgical emergency.
Defined as increased compartmental pressure resulting in decreased perfusion and
ultimate ischemic changes to the tissues.
At rest, intramuscular pressure is approximately 5 mmHg. During a muscle contraction,
the compartmental pressure can increase to 150 mmHg. At relaxation, the compartment
13
pressure rapidly drops, and within 5-10 minutes after relaxation, has returned to baseline.
In a healthy patient, there are 3 main areas to concentrate on in order to minimize the
risks associated with any surgery: coagulation disorders, drug history and previous
anesthetic complications. Certain labs and tests should be ordered for all cases. For local
anesthesia: CBC-Diff, Chem-7, PT/PTT/INR, and EKG. For general anesthesia cases:
CBC-Diff, Chem-7, PT/PTT/INR, EKG, Chest X-ray if smoker or older than 40
(according to some sources).
Diabetic Patient
1. Early morning surgical preference
2. If surgery is delayed, start IV with D5W to avoid hypoglycemia (better sweet than
sour) from remaining insulin or hypoglycemics from the day before.
3. Regular insulin should be used during the perioperative period.
4. Check pre-op potassium levels. Insulin reduces these levels.
5. Autonomic neuropathy can cause increased risks of gastroparesis and aspiration,
resting tachycardia and orthostatic hypotension.
6. Pre-op blood sugar levels:
a. Hypoglycemia in a pre-op patient, consider postponing the case
b. Pre-op BS < 200 in diet controlled patient no meds are needed
c. Pre-op BS 200-300 in diet controlled patient consider regular insulin
d. Pre-op BS in patient taking oral hypoglycemics <150, do not take the drug
on the morning of the surgery
e. Pre-op BS in patient taking oral hypoglycemics 150-250, take morning
dose of oral agent.
f. Pre-op BS in patient taking oral hypoglycemics >250, start regular insulin
7. Avoid post-op hyperglycemia
8. For minor procedures in Type 2 DM patients undergoing minor procedures,
discontinue the oral hypoglycemic one day before surgery and resume taking the
medication when regular diet is resumed. Patient should not get any glucose IV.
9. For long, major procedures, it is safer to utilize IV insulin during surgery.
10. Administering insulin to Type 1 DM patients undergoing surgery:
a. ½ the usual morning dose and start D5W IV and cover with insulin during
case OR….
b. Start 500 ml D5W for the first hour, followed by 125 ml/hr of D5W with
1-2 Units of regular insulin
11. Begin a sliding insulin scale post-op
14
Patient on steroid therapy
Steroids are used to treat many conditions including asthma, COPD, rheumatoid arthritis,
and malignancy. They have an effect on three main areas of importance in the
perioperative patient. Suppression of the hypothalamus/pituitary adrenal axis. Poor
wound healing. Predisposition to infection.
If a patient has taken more than 7.5 mg/ day of prednisone, then exogenous steroids must
be supplied during the perioperative period. Otherwise there could be a resulting
hypotension and cardiovascular collapse.
For procedures, the regimen of exogenous steroids is: Hydrocortisone IV 100 mg pre-op
and 100 mg post-op. Tapering of steroids is only necessary if coverage lasts longer than 3
days.
Cardiac patient
Elective surgery should be postponed until 6 months post myocardial infarct and in
patients with uncompensated congenital heart failure.
All risk factors such as unstable angina and cardiac failure should be stabilized
preoperatively.
Pre-op studies should include the studies for the normal patient undergoing general
anesthesia, plus EKG and chest x-ray.
Nitrates and beta-blockers should be continued during the peri-operative period.
EKG should be considered in any patient with a murmur.
Gout patient
Should receive colchicine 0.5 mg 3 times daily for 2-3 days prior to the operation and 4-5
15
days post-operatievly. Low risk patients do not need to be treated.
Chest Pain
Possible causes include: MI, pulmonary embolus, pneumonia, anxiety, atelectasis,
aspiration, CHF
Treatment: EKG, chest x-ray, ABG’s. May also do ventilation perfusion radionucleotide
lung scan, pulmonary angiography (most specific and sensitive for PE).
Post-operative Infection
Usually occurs 3-7 days post-operatively. Can occur sooner (Strep Group A).
Signs/Symptoms: Pain, swelling, drainage, dehiscence, cellulitis, erythema, fever
Treatment: Patient should be admitted to the hospital if they are experiencing systemic
symptoms (nausea, vomiting, chills, sweats) or if they are immunocompromised or need
surgical debridement. Perform local wound care including removing sutures and incision
and drainage. Obtain a culture and sensitivity test. Obtain necessary lab studies. Begin
empiric therapy with antibiotics and adjust per result of the C&S. Continue antibiotics for
10-14 days.
Pain Management
Pain medications were covered previously, but this information is in regards to pain as a
complication to surgery.
Injecting a long acting local anesthetic (bupivicaine) immediately postoperative will delay
pain past the initial phases.
A short acting steroid (dexamethasone) will help diminish postoperative swelling and
inflammation.
NSAID’s can be given to help reduce inflammation.
Opiates
Sedatives can reduce the anxiety associated with surgery, therefore reducing the pain.
Nausea
Antiemetics – Compazine, Phenergan, Reglan, Zofran
Constipation
16
First, if possible, get the patient moving. Walking can sometimes induce bowel
movements in postoperative patients.
Drugs- senna, lactulose, Colace, Dulcolax
DVT
Symptoms: red, hot, swollen calf with fever
Diagnostic: venous duplex, venogram
Treatment: Heparin IV 5,000-10,000 Units followed by a constant infusion of 1,000-
1,500 Units/hr. PTT is to be kept at 2 times the baseline and the PT is kept at 1.5 times
the baseline. Coumadin should be started on admission (it takes 3-5 days to begin
working). The patient should eventually be discharged home on coumadin.
Internal Fixation
Cortical screws- function as either a positional screw (plate fixation) or a lag screw
(exerts compression). Compression is only achieved when the threads of the screw do not
engage the cortex of the near osteotomy or fracture fragment, accomplished by
overdrilling.
When screws are used alone for fragment fixation, two smaller screws provide increased
resistance to shear and torsional stresses.
When screws are used for interfragmentary compression, they should be inserted so that
their direction bisects the perpendiculars to the fracture line and the long axis of the bone
involved.
Sufficient screw fixation can usually be obtained with oblique and spiral fracture patterns
only when the fracture line is twice as long as the bone’s diameter. Short oblique or
transverse fractures therefore need an interfragmentary lag screw and a neutralization
plate.
Cancellous Screws- fully or partially threaded. The cancellous screw thread height is
greater than that of cortical. This allows for greater purchase in the softer metaphyseal
and epiphyseal bone for which they were designed. If the threads are left crossing the
interface between two fragments, no compression will be achieved as the lag effect will
be negated. It then acts as a cortical screw.
Herbert Screw- absence of a screw head. Characterized by the presence of threads with
different pitches and leads on both its proximal and distal ends. The distal threads feature
a tighter pitch and smaller lead and are separated from the proximal ones by an
intervening smooth shank. This allows for interfragmentary compression.
17
Plate Fixation
Static compression plates: tension is applied to the implant and compression is achieved
at the fracture interface.
Dynamic compression plates: beyond the compression of the fracture achieved through
static compression, the implant is subjected to a physiological load, which generates
additional compression at the fracture plane.
Neutralization plates: initially a shaft fracture is fixated by interfragmental compression
with a lag screw. A plate is then applied to neutralize or absorb any disruptive forces-
torsional, shear or bending to which the bone and osteosynthesis may be subjected.
Anti-glide plates: used as neutralization plates but placed on the posterior aspect of the
fibula.
Buttress plates: generally used to resist the tendency of metaphyseal fracture fragments to
displace when subjected to compressive forces (tibial plafond or calcaneal plates).
AO Objectives
1. Atraumatic operative technique
2. Accurate anatomical reduction
3. Rigid internal compression
4. Avoidance of soft tissue damage
5. Early range of motion
Multiple lag screws: This technique is used in a long/oblique or spiral fracture, where the
length of the fracture is at least twice the diameter of the diaphyseal bone involved. The
first screw should be placed perpendicular to both cortices and be centrally placed. The
second and third screws are placed perpendicular to the plane of the fracture. This
prevents shearing.
18
Other Techniques of Fixation
Circlage wire: The weakest form of internal fixation. Provides apposition of the
osteotomy surfaces, but little stability. Most secure is two loops at 90 degree orientation
to each other.
K-wire: Crossed k-wires provide more rigidity than just one. Distraction of the fracture
fragments can occur. This does not provide interfragmental compression. Threaded k-
wires are mechanically unsound and are rarely used.
Tension banding: Monofilament wire threaded in a figure 8 pattern, used in combination
with two k-wires to give interfragmental compression. This is good with Jones fractures
and some ankle fractures. The plane of insertion of the 2 k-wires must be parallel to the
plane of the drill hole for passage of the monofilament wire.
Mild Infections
2 of the following characteristics: purulence, erythema, warmth, pain, tenderness,
induration
Moderate Infections
Characteristics: cellulitis > 2 cm from wound, lymphangitic streaking, abscess, gangrene
Severe Infections
Characteristics: fever, chills, confusion, acidosis, hyperglycemia, tachycardia,
hypotension, vomiting, leukocytosis, azotemia
Life Threatening
Empirically cover S. aureus, Streptococcus, Enterobacteriaceae, Bacteroides fragilis
19
- fluoroquinolones
- clindamycin
Community-acquired MRSA
- Clindamycin, Doxycycline, TMP-SMZ
20
21
Hershey Board Certification Review
Outline Study Guide
by
Jonathan M. Singer, D.P.M.
Diplomate, American Board of Podiatric Surgery
Fellow, American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons
Diplomate, American Board of Podiatric Orthopedics & Primary Podiatric Medicine
Fellow, American College of Foot & Ankle Orthopedics & Medicine
Edited by
Larry R. Goss, D.P.M.
Diplomate, American Board of Podiatric Surgery
Fellow, American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons
Fellow, American College of Foot & Ankle Orthopedics & Medicine
Fellow, American Professional Wound Care Association
Residency Director, Parkview/Roxborough/MCP Hospitals
Clinical Instructor, Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine
Larry R. Goss, D.P.M. and Jason Miller, D.P.M. for their academic
contributions and updating this new addition
James Lawton D.P.M. and Gene Potter, D.P.M. for their invaluable
contributions in the general editing these review notes in the previous
addition
Warren Joseph, D.P.M., and Steven Maffei, D.P.M. for editing the chapter
on Infectious Diseases
Peter F. Kelly, D.P.M. for writing the chapter on Lasers and Laser Physics
Gene K. Potter, D.P.M., Ph.D. and Steven Berlin, D.P.M. for editing the
chapters on Dermatology, Bone Tumors, and Soft Tissue Tumors
Guido LaPorta, D.P.M., M.S. for writing the chapter on Ankle Arthroscopy
Copyright © 2003
Pennsylvania Podiatric Medical Association 757 Poplar Church Road
Camp Hill, Pennsylvania 17011 (800)-841-3668
All rights reserved
This book is protected by copyright. No part of this book may be reproduced in any
form or by any means, including photocopying, or utilized by any information
storage or retrieval system without written permission from the copyright owner.
Accurate indications, adverse reactions, and dose schedules for drugs are provided in
this book, but It is possible that they may change. The reader is urged to review the
package information data of the manufacturers of the medications mentioned.
The author has made every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information herein.
However, appropriate information sources should be consulted, especially for new or
unfamiliar procedures. It is the responsibility of every practitioner to evaluate the
appropriateness of a particular opinion in the context of actual clinical situations
and with consideration to new developments. The author, editors, and publisher
cannot be held responsible for any typographical or other errors found In this book.
Chapter 11: Fluid Management and Chapter 17: Nail Disorders & Surgery
Replacement in the Surgical Patient Nail Entities: page 256-260
Fluid Management: page 150-152 Nail Anatomy: page 260
Complications of Total Parenteral Nutrition: Surgical Nail Procedures: page 262-263
page 152
Replacement Therapy: page 152-153 Chapter 18: Neurology
Blood Products and Indications for Use: Neurological Pathways: page 266
page 153-156 Presenting Features: page 266-270
Composition of IV Fluids: page156-157 Assessment of Clinical Problems: page 270-
278
Chapter 12: Bone Tumors Innervation of the Lower Extremity: page
Introduction: page 160 278-281
Staging Techniques: page 160-161 Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome: page 282-284
Surgical Staging System: page 161 Classification of Nerve Injuries: page 284-
Radiology of Bone Tumors: page 161-162 285
Bone Tumors: Page 163-168 Neuromuscular Causes of Cavus Foot: page
Cystic Lesions of Bone: page 168-169 285
Other Tumors and Cancers: page 169-170 Types of Nerve Surgery: page 285-288
Bone Tumors: A Quick Reference Chart:
page 170-171 Chapter 19: Pediatrics
Phases in Cancer Development: page 171 Evaluation of the Pediatric Patient: page
Benign vs. Malignant: page 172 290-293
Pedicatric Biomechanics-Normal Values:
Chapter 13: Dermatology Newborn to Adult: page 293
The Skin: page 174 Congential Deformities: page 293-302
Dermatological Lesions: page 175-182 Pediatric Radiology: page 302-304
Pediatric Gait Patterns: page 304-305
Chapter 14: The Arthropathies Intoe Gait: page 306-307
Causes of Joint Pain: A Summary: page 184 Pediatric Fractures: page 307-318
The Arthropathies: page 184-195 The Limp in Childhood: page 318-319
Lab Testing for the Arthropathies: page 195 Juvenile Hallux Valgus: page 319-320
Articular Disorders Affecting the Heel: page Biomechanical Examination of the Child:
195-196 page 320-323
Synovial Fluid Analysis: page 197 Corrective Casting Techniques in Infants:
Charcot Foot: page 198-199 page 323-324
The Toe-Walking Child: page 324-326
Chapter 15: Peripheral Vascular Disease
Patient Evaluation: page 202-212 Chapter 20: Drugs and Drug Interactions
The Vascular Diseases: page 212-215 Introduction to Drug Interactions: page 328
Antibiotic Drug Interactions: page 328-329
Chapter 16: Internal & External Fixation Anticoagulant Drug Interactions: page 330
Objectives of Fixation Devices: page 218 Antihypertensive Drug Interactions: page
Requirements of Implant Materials: page 330-331
Antipsychotic Drug Interactions: page 331 Physical Examination: page 418-419
Cardiac Drug Interactions: page 331-332 Preoperative Considerations: page
Diuretic Drug Interactions: page 332 419
Non Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug Arthroplasty Procedures: page 419
Interactions: page 332-333 420
Oral Contraceptive Drug Interactions: page Capsule-Tendon Balancing
333 Procedures: page 421-422
Mechanisms of Drug Interactions: page Implant Arthroplasty Procedures:
333-335 page 422-426
Specific Drugs: page 335-344 Arthrodesing Procedures: page 426
429
Chapter 21: Surgery of the Congenital Foot Proximal Phalangeal Osteotomies:
Flatfoot Surgery (flexible): page 346-355 page 429-431
Subtalar Joint Blocking Procedures: Distal Metatarsal Osteotomies: page
(Arhroereises and Arthrodesis): page 355- 432-436
356 Proximal Metatarsal Osteotomies:
Flatfoot Surgery (rigid): Convex Pes Plano page 436-438
Valgus: page 356-358 Shaft Osteotomies: page 438-439
Metatarsus Adductus Surgery: page 358- Combination Procedures: page 439
362 Other Procedures: page 439-440
Cavus Foot Surgery: page 362-367 Hallux Rigidus and Limitus: page
Clubfoot Surgery: page 368-373 440-445
Hallux Varus: page 445-446
Chapter 22: Generalized Disease Conditions Hallux Hammertoe: page 446
of Bone Diff. Diagnosis of Pain In the
Soft Tissue Overgrowth: page 376 Sesamoid Area: page 446
Abnormalities of Alignment: page 376-377 Complications of HAV Surgery: page
General Increased Bone Density: page 377 447
Osteopenia: page 377-378 HAV Procedure Chart and Their
Marrow Abnormalities: page 378- Indications: page 448
379
The Dysplasias: page 379-380 Chapter 25: Trauma
Medical Management and General
Chapter 23: Radiology Assessment of the Trauma Patient:
Standard Radiographic Techniques page 450-451
of the Foot and Ankle: page 382- Assessment of Lower Extremity
383 Injury: page 451
Specific Radiographic Studies: page General Evaluation and Treatment
383-391 of Fractures: page 451-452
Anatomic Angles: page 391-396 Calcaneal Fractures: page 452-460
Common Structural Measurements Talar Fractures: page 460-463
(Diagrams): page 396-402 Osteochondral Fractures: page 463
Pediatric Radiology: page 402-406 465
The Osteochondritities: page 406-407 Navicular Fractures: page 466-470
The Accessory Bones of the Foot: Cuboid Fractures: page 470-472
page 407 Cuneiform Fractures: page 472
Fifth Metatarsal Base Fractures: page
Chapter 24: Hallux Valgus & 472-474
Related Disorders Metatarsal Fractures: page 474-480
Goals of HAV Surgery: page 410 Ankle Fractures: page 480-493
Anatomical Facts of the 1st MPJ: Midtarsal Joint Dislocations: page 494
page 410-411 Tarsometatarsal Joint
Predisposing Factors: page 412 Dislocations/Fractures: page 494-498
Biomechanics: page 412-414 Ankle Inversion Sprain: page 498
Etiology of HAV: page 414-415 505
Deformity Types: page 416-417 Deltoid Ligament Ruptures: page
Radiological Measurements for HAV: 506-507
page 417-418 Compartment Syndrome: page 507
508 571-572
Open Fracture Classification System Tenosynovitis: page 572
and Tx: page 508-510
Soft Tissue Injuries: page 510-511 Chapter 28: Lesser Metatarsal
Crush, Gunshot, and Lawnmower Surgery
Injuries: page 511-512 Anatomy (Metatarsals 2-3-4): page
Puncture Wounds: page 512 574-575
Epiphyseal Plate Injuries: page 512-514 Differential Diagnosis of
Digital Fractures and Dislocations: Metatarsalgia: page 575
page 514-515 Surgical Treatment of the IPK: page
1st MPJ Trauma: page 516-517 575-578
Nail Bed Trauma: page 517-518 Lesser Metatarsal Joint Replacement:
Toe Tip Injuries With Tissue Loss: page 578-579
page 518-519 Panmetatarsal Head Resection: page
Dog and Cat Bites: page 519 579-581
Metatarsus Adductus: page 581-585
Chapter 26: Digital Deformities Freiberg's Disease: page 585-587
and Surgery Tailor's Bunion: page 587-589
Hammertoe Syndrome: page 522- Splayfoot: page 589
528 Brachymetatarsia
Mallet Toe Syndrome: page 528-529 (Brachymetetopody): page 589-591
Claw Toe Deformity: page 529 Skewfoot: page 591-592
Overlapping 5th Toe: page 529-532
Hallux Hammertoe: page 532-533 Chapter 29: Ankle Conditions
Lesser Digital Arthrodesis: page 533 Differential Diagnosis of Chronic
Hallux Interphalangeal Arthrodesis: Ankle Pain: page 594
page 533 Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome: page 594-
Lesser Digital Arthrodesis: page 533- 597
534 Sinus Tarsi Syndrome: page 597-
Overlapping 2nd Toe: page 534 599
Syndactylization: page 534-535 Peroneal Subluxation: page 599-
Digital Implants: page 535-537 600
Floating Toe Syndrome: page 537 Ankle Arthrodesis: page 600-602
Blue Toe Syndrome: page 538-539 Lateral Ankle Instability: page 603
Polydactylism: page 539-541 Chronic Lateral Ankle Instability:
page 604-607
Chapter 27: Muscle and Tendon Chronic Medial Ankle Instability:
Pathology page 607
Muscle Physiology: page 544-548 Ankle Equinus: page 607-611
Principles of Tendon Repair: page Malunion and Nonunion of the
548-552 Malleolei: page 611-614
Tendon Lengthening and
Tenotomy: page 552-554 Chapter 30: Heel Conditions
Tendon Transfers: page 554-556 Anatomy of the Heel: page 616-617
Tendon Grafts: page 556-557 Radiological Evaluation of the Calcaneus:
Posterior Tibial Tendon Rupture: page 617-618
page 557-559 The Heel in Systemic Disease:
Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction page 618-621
(Acquired Adult Flatfoot Syndrome): Seronegative Arthritis and Heel Pain:
page 559-560 page 621-622
Peroneal Tendon Pathology: page Heel Spurs and Heel Spur
560-562 Syndrome: page 622-623
Achilles Tendon Rupture: page 562- Tumors of the Heel: page 623-626
566 Tarsal Coalitions: page 626-629
Lateral Ankle Stabilization Sever's Disease: page 629-630
Procedures: page 566-571 Causes of Heel Pain (a summary):
Postoperative Care and Training page 630-631
Following Tendon Transfer: page Haglund's Deformity: page 631-632
Chapter 37: Laser Applications in
Chapter 31: Amputations Podiatric Surgery
General Surgical Technique: page Laser and Laser Physics:
634 page 741-751
Digital Amputations: page 634-635 Clinical Applications in Podiatric
MPJ Amputations: page 635 Surgery: page 751-775
Transmetatarsal Amputations: page
635-636 Chapter 38: Specific Radiological
Tarsometatarsal Amputations Pathology
(Lisfranc's): page 637 MRI Pathology: page 777-800
Midfoot Amputations (Chopart's):
page 638
Amputation of the Ankle (Syme's,
Boyd, Pirogoff): page 638-639
Below Knee Amputation: page 639-
640
i. Atropine:
decreases vagal tone to increase heart rate
used in sinus bradycardia/high degree AV block
dosage- .5mg IV Q 15 minutes up to 2mg.
ii. Bretylium:
used in V-fibrillation and V-tach when lidocaine and countershock fails
dosage v-fib: 5-10gm/kg bolus Q 15 min to max 30mg/kg
dosage v-tach: 5-10 mg/kg IV over 10 minutes, then 1 to 2 mg/min IV drip
iii. Calcium:
should only be used to treat acute hyperkalemia, hypocalcemia, and
calcium channel blocker toxicity (there is no data showing its effectiveness
during CPR)
increases cardiac contractility and excitability
used in asystole
dosage: calcium chloride 2-4 mg/kg Q 10 minutes (Approx 500 mg)
used in pump failure
dosage: 2.5-1 Omicrograms/kg/min
iv. Dopamine:
alpha, beta, and delta agonist
used to support cardiac output, BP and renal perfusion in shock
states
dosage: start at 2-5 micrograms/kg/min, titrate to effect 20
micrograms/kg/min
large dose has mostly alpha effect
v. Epinephrine:
alpha and beta agonist, increases heart rate and contractility
used in asystole, V-fibrillation, and cardiac arrest
dosage: .5 to 1.0mg (5-10 ml of 1-10,000) IV Q 5 min
x. Propranolol (Inderal):
beta blocker (to be used with caution in patients with COPD, diabetes and heart
failure
used to control recurrent ventricular and atrial tachydysrhythmia
dosage: 1 mg IV Q 5 minutes to 5 mg total (total dose not to exceed 0.1 mg/kg)
must administer slowly
Office Emergencies
1. Syncope- Vasovagal reflex (Primary shock; fainting)
a. Defined as transient loss of consciousness due to sudden release of the
arterial vasomotor tone and temporary insufficiency of cerebral circulation
b. Causes are sudden extreme fear or pain or the effect of severe injury
c. Differential diagnosis: epilepsy, hyperventilation, hysteria , carotid sinus
syndrome, cardiac arrhythmia, drugs and orthostatic hypotension d. Signs
and symptoms: pallor, sweating, slow pulse, yawning and marked transient
hypotension
e. Treatment is supportive: recumbent position, take B.P., pulse, spirits of
ammonia, O2 and drugs (Atropine/Ephedrine) only if previous treatment fails
3. Anaphylactic Reactions
a. These are toxic reactions that occur in persons who are allergic by heredity
or who have become sensitized to a given drug or therapeutic agent after
previous administration. Respiratory obstruction is the cause of death
b. Reactions- anaphylactic shock, angioneurotic edema (swelling of soft tissues
of throat), asthma with acute bronchospasm, urticaria and pruritus
c. Signs and symptoms of anaphylactic shock - skin wheals, itching,
angioedema, laryngeal edema, bronchospasm (wheezing) dyspnea, cyanosis,
apnea, vomiting, hypotension, cardiorespiratory collapse and death
d. Treatment of anaphylactic shock (must be immediate)- .5cc epinephrine IV or
IM (children 0.01 mg/kg), tourniquet and .25cc epinephrine at injection site, O2 &
airway, Solu-cortef 200 mg IV and CPR if necessary
4. Allergic Reactions:
a. End organ response of the skin
b. Symptoms are hives, (urticaria), bronchial asthma, and G.I. upset c.
Treatment: 25-50 mg IM Benadryl- if severe then treat as if anaphylactic
reaction- if tongue swelling use epinephrine
7. Hypertension:
a. Defined as persistent elevated BP above normal for the patient (borderline
hypertension BP>140/90)
b. Signs and symptoms- headache, convulsions, visual changes, with acute rise
in BP
c. Treatment- start supportive therapy and reduce BP with sublingual
nifedipine 10mg (Procardia) then send for medical evaluation
NOTE* If the diabetic patient is seen when unconscious, and if the diagnosis of coma
or insulin reaction is in doubt, give 50% glucose IV- this will overcome insulin
reaction but will not generally harm patient in diabetic acidosis
4. Ventricular Tachycardia:
a. Begin lidocaine
b. Use CPR if no pulse/O2/ IV's (and unconscious)
c. Use precordial thump if witnessed event
d. Consider cardioversion and procainamide or bretylium if lidocaine
ineffective
3. Salicylate Overdose: (the most common cause of fatal drug ingestion in the
pediatric age group) (Reyes syndrome)
a. There is a relationship of signs and symptoms to the amount of ASA ingested
i. Mild: >100mg/kg: hyperventilation, lethargy, tinnitus
ii. Moderate: 200-300mg/kg: hyperventilation, vomiting, sweating, vertigo,
hallucinations
iii. Severe: 300-400mg/kg: hyperventilation, seizures, coma, shock
b. Treatment begins with emesis with ipecac then gastric lavage
c. Alkalinize the plasma ( helps promote secretion of salicylates) with push
doses of bicarbonate
d. If shock present start IV with Ringer's lactate e. Start dialysis if renal failure
4. Poisoning:
a. Each type of poisoning is treated differently a. Begin basic CPR if necessary
b. Determine ingested substance and give antidote if available
NOTE* It is better to call hotline first for specific directions in the treatment of
specific ingested agents
6. Hypertensive Emergencies:
Hypertensive encephalopathy
Malignant Hypertension
Accelerated Hypertension
Hypertensive Crisis
a. Diagnosis of Hypertensive encephalopathy or accelerated malignant
hypertension is a clinical one and demands immediate aggressive therapy to
lower BP
b. Treatment initially should be Diazoxide (Hyperstat) 300mg by rapid IV
bolus or can give hydralazine (should give Furosemide simultaneously- prevents
fluid retention)
2. Etiology:
a. Hypovolemic: Caused by a reduction in circulating blood as a result of
traumatic injury, GI bleed, crush injuries, burns, massive diarrhea, and
peritonitis
b. Septic: Caused by infections that produce an endotoxic or exotoxic
reaction. Most common gram (-)'s are E. coli, Proteus group, Pseudomonas,
Klebsiella and meningococci. Less often involved are gram (+)'s such as
staphylococci, streptococci, and clostridia
c. Neurogenic: Severe injury to the spinal cord or brain can cause a loss in
vasomotor tone resulting in vasodilation and hypotension from the loss of
peripheral vascular resistance. Also psychogenic factors such as the sight of
blood or surgery can produce shock
d. Cardiogenic: Produced by hypotension arising from inadequate cardiac
output as a result of serious arrhythmias, tamponade, Ml, CHF, and pulmonary
embolism
e. Metabolic: Caused by alterations in the fluid electrolyte balance as a result
of systemic diseases such as diabetic acidosis, renal failure, or chronic
respiratory diseases
f. Anaphylactic: Occurs following the injection of heterologous sera, penicillin
and other medications
3. Treatment of shock:
a. Assess the physical status of the patient
b. Lie the patient down and keep him/her warm
c. Maintain airway administering oxygen at 8-10 liters/minute. If patient
unable to breath on their own use Ambu bag (use- CPR if necessary)
d. IV fluid replacement to avoid dehydration. Do not use lactate solutions
NOTE* Expanding the intravascular volume is the primary goal in the initial
treatment of hypovolemic shock
NOTE* RBC's must be used within 4 hours after removal from the refrigerator
and must return within 20 minutes to the Blood Bank if not used. Warming can
result in bacterial proliferation if allowed to warm to room temperature before
returning to refrigeration
d. Adverse reactions:
i. Infectious reactions:
AIDS: Risk is 1:20,000 to 1:40,000 for each unit transfused
Hepatitis (B C): less than 1
MV
ii. Noninfectious reactions
Febrile: fever reaction most common. This reaction involving circulating
antibodies in the recipient which react to HLA antigens in infused
granulocytes
Allergic: associated with circulating serum antibodies within the
recipient to infused immunoglobulins within the small amount of residual
plasma of the red cell unit (hives, serum sickness, anaphylaxis)
Hemolytic: is a result of circulating naturally occurring antibodies in the
recipient to antigens on the RBC's causing cell lysis
Graft vs. host disease: engraftment and multiplication of donor blood cells
in an immunosuppressed recipient are possible, and here, immunocompetent
lymphocytes become engrafted and cannot be rejected
2. Platelets:
a. Description: Are a concentrate separated from a single donor by
plasmapheresis from whole blood containing 5.5 x 1011 platelets in 200
300 cc of plasma and anticoagulant, and can be expected to raise the adult
platelets count by 60-80,000 unless platelet antibodies are present
b. Compatibility: ABO compatibility is preferred, but in emergencies or short supply
any ABO group can be used (Rh is not a factor).
c. Alternatives: Random donor platelets are obtained from a single unit of
whole blood and contain 1 /10 the number of platelets in 30-50 cc, and 6-10
units are standard suggested therapy
d. Indications:
L Prophylaxis:
Platelet count < 20,000/mm3 or anticipated drop below 20,000 in the
next 24 hours
Platelet count < 80,000 with surgery anticipated or in the acute post-op
period
A platelet function defect with surgery anticipated or in the acute post-op
period
i. Bleeding:
latelet count < 20,000/mm3
latelet function defect (known or suspected)
e. Adverse reactions: Same risks as RBC's
3. Cryoprecipitate:
a. Description: Prepared by thawing fresh frozen plasma at 4°C and recovering
the cold precipitate. Each bag of 'Cryo' contains 90 or more Factor VIII units
and at least 150 mg of fibrinogen in less than 15 ml of plasma
b. Compatibility: ABO compatibility is preferred but not required in emergency
situations
c. Alternatives: Fresh frozen plasma can be used if there are associated
deficiencies of individual coagulation factors, massive blood transfusion, or
when cryoprecipitate is in short supply
d. Indications:
i. Von Willebrand's Disease
ii. Hypofibrinogenemia associated with bleeding or surgery (perioperative)
iii. Dysfibrinogenemia associated with bleeding or surgery
iv. Uremia associated with bleeding
v. Factor XIII deficiency
e. Adverse reactions: Same as with RBC's
5. Albumin
a. Description: A solution containing the albumin component of human
blood, which can effect immediate and prolonged restoration of circulating
blood volume by causing a shift of fluid from the interstitial spaces into the
circulation and slightly increasing the concentration. of plasma proteins
b. Action: 25% albumin will draw approximately 3.5 times its volume of
additional fluid into the circulation within 15 minutes, and provides a means
of replacing human plasma proteins
c. Indications:
i. Plasma or blood volume deficit secondary to surgery, hemorrhage, burns, or
trauma: to support BP by expanding the plasma volume
ii. Hemolytic disease in the newborn
iii. Hypovolemic shock: to restore blood volume in increase CO
iv. Hemodialysis: for the treatment of shock or hypotension when the patient
is fluid overloaded
v. Acute or chronic liver disease
d. Contraindications: History of hypersensitivity or severe anemia or CHF
e. Precautions: Solutions containing 5% albumin are usually indicated for
hypovolemic patients, 25% solutions should be used when fluid and Na+
intake must be minimized (cerebral edema and pediatric patients)
f. Adverse reactions: Rare
Chapter 2: Anesthesia
Anesthesia Classifications
General Anesthesia
Intravenous Anesthesia
Local Anesthesia
Special Cases for Lowering the Maximum Allowable Dose
Pediatric Anesthesia
Lumbar Epidural and Caudal Anesthesia General
Complications of Anesthesia Complications of Endotrachial
Intubation Nerve Injury During Anesthesia
Other Medical Complications From Anesthesia
ANESTHESIA
Anesthesia Classifications
General Anesthesia
A reversible state of unconsciousness produced by anesthetic agents, with loss of
sensation of pain over the whole body. The order of descending depression of the CNS
during anesthesia is: cortical and psychic centers, basal ganglia and cerebellum,
medullary centers, and spinal cord
1. Inhalation agents:
a. Volatile liquids:
i. Chloroform (no longer in use)
Advantages: Rapid induction and recovery, nonflammable, good muscle relaxation
Disadvantages: Myocardial depressant, hepatotoxic
ii. Diethyl ether (no longer in use)
Advantages: Reliable signs of anesthesia depth, respiration stimulated,
bronchodilator, circulation not depressed, good muscle relaxation, relatively safe
and nontoxic (has lowest death rate following its use)
Disadvantages: Prolonged induction and recovery, irritating to mucous
membranes of upper airway, dangerous in patients with full stomachs (emetic),
flammable, and explosive
iii. Halothane (Fuothane®)
Advantages: Rapid smooth induction and recovery, pleasant smell, nonirritating
(no secretions), bronchodilator, nonemetic, nonflammable
Disadvantages: Myocardial depressant, may trigger malignant hyperthermia
reaction, arrhythmia-producing drug, sensitizes the myocardium to the action of
catecholamines, possibly toxic to the liver, postoperative shivering
iv. Methoxyflurane (Penthrane(r): It is the most potent and least volatile anesthetic
(no longer in use)
Advantages: Great margin of safety, good muscle relaxant, not sensitive to
catecholamines, nonflammable
Disadvantages: Prolonged induction of anesthesia and prolonged recovery,
nephrotoxic
v. Enflurane (Ethraner)
Advantages: Pleasant smell, rapid induction and recovery, nonirritating (no
secretions), bronchodilator, maintains stability of the cardiovascular system,
nonemetic, compatible with epinephrine
Disadvantages: Myocardial depressant, smooth muscle relaxant, increase
hypertension with increase depth of anesthesia, CNS irritant, possible
hepatotoxicity
NOTE* The adverse side effects from the narcotic analgesics include respiratory
depression, emesis, physical dependence. Asthmatics react poorly to morphine
only due to histamine release (smooth muscle constriction)
c. Tranquilizers:
i. Phenothiazines: Are used for a preanesthetic medication because of their sedative,
antiemetic, antihistaminic, and temperature regulating effects. May produce
postoperative hypertension and lethargy. When given with narcotic analgesics,
increases respiratory depression
horazine® (15-25 mg)
ompazine® (5-10 mg)
henergan® (25-50 mg)
d. Belladonna compounds:
i. Atropine: Decreases secretions and is the drug of choice to reduce bronchial and
cardiac effects of parasympathetic origin. It increases the heart rate by blocking the
vagus nerve, and stimulates the cerebral cortex. Atropine is superior to scopolamine
as a vagolytic agent, therefore, can prevent severe bradycardia and asystole in the
presence of vagotonic agents (halothane). Atropine and scopolamine are potent
bronchodilators. Patients allergic to atropine can be given scopolamine + benadryl
ii. Scopolamine: An effective drug for psychic sedation and amnesia. The drying effect
is better than atropine
iii. Glycopyrrolate (Robinol)
NOTE* Diprivan is a new sedative/hypnotic (used with Versed and Fentanyl for
balanced anesthesia)
3. Stages of Anesthesia
a. Stage 1: Analgesia (characterized by variable degrees of analgesia and amnesia)
i. Plane 1- Preanalgesia (normal memory and sensation)
ii. Plane 2- Partial analgesia and amnesia
iii. Plane 3-Total analgesia and amnesia
b. Stage 2: Delirium (extends from the loss of consciousness until the beginning of
surgical anesthesia) (excitement and voluntary activity marked)
i. Unconsciousness, irregular breathing pupils dilated
c. Stage 3: Surgical anesthesia (4 planes)
i. Plane 1 (sleep)-Rhythmical breathing, eyeball centrally fixed, faint lid reflex
ii. Plane 2 (sensory loss)-Pupils slightly dilated, pulse and blood pressure normal
iii. Plane 3 (muscle tone loss)-lntercostal paralysis begins, increased pulse rate &
decreased BP
iv. Plane 4 (intercostal paralysis)-Provides cessation of all respiratory effort and
requires artificial ventilation for life support
d. Stage 4: Medullary paralysis
i. Plane 1: reversible respiratory failure
ii. Plane 2: irreversible cardiovascular collapse
Intravenous Anesthesia
1. Ultrashort-acting barbiturates: In sufficient amounts these can provide all the
anesthetic stages (may produce serious cardiovascular depression) for short minor
procedures that do not require muscle relaxation
b. Neuroleptoanalgesia: A neuroleptic drug (tranquilizer) plus a narcotic analgesic,
when administered together produce the following psychophysiologic state:
somnolence without total unconsciousness, psychological indifference to the
environment, no voluntary movements, analgesia, and satisfactory amnesia
c. Neuroleptoanesthesia: Combination of nitrous oxide, droperidol, fentanyl and
muscle relaxants (a good choice for patients with little cardiac reserve)
d. Dissociative anesthesia (Ketamine®): Produces a state where the patient becomes
mentally dissociated from the environment
Local Anesthetics
Function in such a way as to prevent sodium migration through the nerve membrane
which, therefore prevents depolarization of the nerve with inhibition of nerve
conduction
1. Chemical Classifications
a. Esters of para-aminobenzoic acids
i.. Procaine (Novocaine): most toxic, and is considered the standard in comparing the
potency and toxicity of other local anesthetics used for injections
ii. Chlorprocaine (Nesacaine®): least toxic, and rapid plasma hydrolysis by pseudo-
cholinesterase
b. Esters of Benzoic Acid
i. Hexylcaine (Cyclaine®)
ii. Tetracaine (Pontocaine): longest duration
c. Amides
i. Lidocaine (Xylocaine®): shortest duration & fastest action
ii. Mepivicaine (Carbocaine®): do not use in presence of renal disease
iii. Bupivicaine (Marcaine®): longest duration, least placental transfer, should not be
used in children under the age of 12 years old (package insert), and greatest cardiac
toxicity if given IV
iv. Etidocaine (Duranest®): four time more potent than lidocaine, but only twice as
toxic
NOTE* Amides are hydrolized in the liver. There is no cross sensitivity between
amides and esters- can be substituted in case of allergy. Should use 1 /2 dose in
elderly, debilitated patients, and patients with hepatic disease. Pain 8 temperature
lost first following nerve block, with loss of touch & motor function later. Injection into
an acidic area (infection) converts the anesthetic chemically and does not allow for
penetration into the cell membrane, and lessens its effectiveness
2. Vasoconstrictors (Epinephrine)
a. Advantages
i. Reduces the vascularity locally at the site of the injection (due to
vasoconstriction)
ii. Reduces the absorption rate of the local anesthetic
iii. Permits a higher allowable single dose dose of local anesthetic to be used
iv. Increases duration of action of the block
b. Disadvantages
i. Use cautiously in patients with hyperparathyroidism, arteriosclerotic
cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and peripheral vascular disease
ii. Creates vasospasm in the end arterioles which could lead to tissue necrosis,
so should be diluted in the digits to 1:200,000-1:400,000 or not used
iii. Can create reactive hyperthermic reaction
iv. Should be avoided in patients receiving Halothane (since Halothane
sensitizes the myocardium in the presence of exogenously administered
catecholamines)
3. Hyaluronidase (Wydase)
a. Permits more rapid spread of solutions into the tissues, to facilitate regional block
anesthesia.
b. There is increased incidence of toxic reactions caused by local anesthetic drugs
when hyaluronidase is used
c. Reduces the duration of action when used with local anesthetics for nerve blocks
Pediatric Anesthesia
1. Preoperative medications: Given up to 1 hour prior to surgery, to decrease
anxiety and to calm the child as well as dry secretions and decrease vagal
stimulation.
a. Sedative/hypnotics: Barbiturates, Chloral hydrate
b. Anticholinergic agents: Scopolamine, atropine
c. Narcotics: Meperidine, morphine
2. Anesthesia:
a. Create a warm environment during anesthesia as children have poor
autothermoregulation mechanisms (inability to shiver)
NOTE* The infant and child lose much of their ability to maintain normal body
temperature during and after anesthesia and their temperature fluctuates with that
of the environment. In most cases, unless vigorous attempts are made to conserve
body heat, the child may become cold and even cyanotic, especially after 2 hours of
surgery. Hypothermia leads to depressed respiration and hypoxia follows. This
predisposes the child to arrhythmias and V-fibrillation, and is the most common
cause of cardiac arrest and shock in the very young
NOTE Fetanyl is given 1 microgram per kg IV 20 minutes prior to the end of the
surgery (must be administered cautiously to premature infants)
1. Indications:
a. Lower extremity surgery when a general anesthetic may be risky for the patient
due to a preexisting medical -problem (i.e. asthma, rheumatoid arthritis affecting the
cervical spine, bronchitis, or emphysema, etc.) b. Patients who are not suitable
candidates for muscle relaxants (myasthenia gravis)
2. Contraindications:
a. Severe hemorrhage or shock
b. Local infection at the proposed puncture site
c. Septicemia
d. Preexisting neurologic disease
e. Extremes of age
f. Chronic backache or preoperative headache
g. Hypotension or marked hypertension
Anatomy of the epidural space: The spinal cord ends at L2. The subarachnoid space
ends at S2
2. Hypoxemia:
a. Definition: Deficient oxygenation of the blood (hypoxia: is reduction of oxygen
supply to a tissue below physiologic levels despite adequate perfusions of tissue by
blood)
b. Control of ventilation:
i. PaCO2 is the most important regulator of ventilation
ii. The respiratory response to hypoxemia is located solely in the peripheral
chemoreceptors, most importantly the carotid bodies
c. Causes of hypoxemia:
i. Hypoventilation: Drugs, medullary disease (encephalitis), anterior horn
cell disease (polio), disease of nerves to the respiratory muscles (Guillain
Barre', diptheria), disease of the neuromuscular junction (myasthenia
gravis) respiratory muscle disease (muscular dystrophy), and sleep apnea
ii. Absolute shunt: perfusion without ventilation
iii. Relative shunt: ventilation perfusion inequality
iv. Diffusion block: impaired diffusion of 02 from alveolus into the pulmonary
capillary blood
d. Biochemical changes of hypoxia: The main effect is cessation of oxidative
phosphorylation at the mitochondria) level, causing conversion to anaerobic
metabolism, reduced energy production and increased production of H+ and lactate
i. Cerebral effects (loss of autoregulation, loss of electrical activity)
ii. Cardiovascular effects (increased heart rate)
iii. Pulmonary effects (pulmonary vasoconstriction)
iv. Renal effects (acute renal failure)
v. Hepatic effects (decreased portal circulation)
e. Compensatory mechanisms:
i. Hyperventilation
ii. Pulmonary redistribution
iii. Increased cardiac output
iv. Increased hemoglobin concentration
v. Changes in oxygen hemoglobin dissociation curve
5. Hyperkalemia:
a. Etiology:
i. Decreased excretion (renal failure, hypoaldosteronism)
ii. Extracellular shift (acidosis, ischemia, rhabdomyolysis, drugs such as
succinylcholine)
iii. Administration of blood, potassium penicillins, salt substitutes iv. Hemolysis
b. Signs and symptoms:
i. Muscle weakness
ii. Paresthesias
iii. Cardiac conduction abnormalities (become dangerous as K+ levels
reach 7 mEq/L)
c. EKG:
i. Peaked T waves
ii. ST segment depression
iii. Prolonged P-R intervals
iv. Loss of P wave
v. QRS widening
vi. Prolonged Q-T interval
d. Treatment:
i. EKG changes treated with CaCl2
ii. NaHCO2
iii. Glucose and insulin
iv. Kayexalate
v. Dialysis
6. Hypothermia:
a. Effects:
i. Decreases 02 consumption and CO2 production by 7-9%/°C in all
tissues
ii. Effects blood gas transport: shifts the oxygen dissociation curve to the left,
hemoglobin's affinity for oxygen increases 6%/°C decrease in temperature (may put
oxygen delivery at risk)
iii. Respiration: hypoxic ventilatory drive may be depressed or absent in presence of
hypothermia
iv. Cardiovascular function in the anesthetized patient:
Heart rate and cardiac output decrease as temperature falls
EKG changes (sinus bradycardia, prolonged PR interval, widened QRS complex,
prolonged QT interval, dysrhythmias at 28°C, ventricular fibrillation or asystole
below 28°C)
Blood viscosity increases 2-3%/°C decrease in temperature v. Renal and Hepatic:
Kidneys have largest proportionate reduction in blood flow with glomerular
filtration rate decreased by 60%
Hepatic blood flow is decreased
vi. Central nervous system
Function is altered (sedation, cold narcosis, progressive slowing of EEG, or EEG
becoming flat)
b. Treatment: Warming of patient
2. Postoperative nausea and vomiting: The vomiting center of the brain is located
in the reticular formation of the medulla. Impulses transmitted by fibers of
sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system initiate the process of vomiting.
Motor impulses that initiate vomiting are carried in Cranial nerves V, VII, X, and XII
to the upper GI tract and through cervical and thoracic nerves to the diaphragm and
abdominal muscles
a. Predisposing factors:
i. Females more prone (probably estrogen related)
ii. Obesity
iii. Certain anesthetics (opioids, nitrous oxide, volatile anesthetics, barbiturates)
iv. Pain, hypotension, or hypoglycemia in postop period
v. Type of surgery (middle ear, ophthalmic, peritoneal irritation, surgery that results
in blood in the stomach)
b. Effects:
i. Autonomic:
Tachycardia or bradycardia
Hypotension or hypertension
ii. Disruption of suture lines
iii. Aspiration
iv. Prolonged hospitalization
c. Prevention:
i. Metroclopramide 10-20 mg IV
ii. Droperidol 0.63-1.25 mg IV
iii. Cimetidine 300 mg IV or po
iv. Ranitidine 150 mg po or 50 mg IV
v. Scopolamine 1.5 mg transdermally (patch)
d. Treatment:
i. Keep patient supine
ii. Antiemetics
4. Pulmonary aspiration:
a. Pathophysiology: Due to passive regurgitation and seen more
commonly in unconcious, obese, pregnant, and patients with full
stomachs
b. Types of pulmonary aspirate:
i. Particulate matter
ii. Liquid gastric contents iii. Blood
c. Incidence: About 10-20% perioperatively and intraoperatively (5%
mortality)
d. Diagnosis: Difficult to differentiate from other causes of pulmonary
insufficiency. Signs and symptoms are tachypnea, tachycardia, cyanosis
and respiratory acidosis
e. Treatment:
i. O2
ii. Tracheal intubation
iii. May need intravascular fluid replacement
iv. Antibiotics if bacterial infection develops
v. Bronchoscopy may be necessary to relieve airway obstruction
Chapter 3: Perioperative
Management
Healthy Patient
The operative mortality for a healthy patient (ASA Class1) undergoing
elective surgery is approx. 1 in 10,000. The risk is minimized by paying
attention to 3 areas of the history: COAGULATION DISORDERS, DRUG
HISTORY AND PREVIOUS ANESTHETIC COMPLICATIONS - For local anesthesia
order: CBC/Diff, UA and PT/PTT. For general anesthesia order: CBC/diff, UA,
PT/PTT, SMA 6, pregnancy test, chest x-ray (if over 40 years old or if HX of
smoking)
12. For minor procedures in NIDDM (TYPE II) patients well controlled on oral agents
(other than chlorpropamide) d/c the drug one day before surgery and follow a NO
INSULIN-NO GLUCOSE protocol during surgery and reinstitute the regular oral
therapy when the patient begins eating
13. Well controlled IDDM patients undergoing short, minor procedures may also be
managed on a NO INSULIN-NO GLUCOSE protocol
14. For long, major procedures it is safer to utilize intravenous insulin therapy during
surgery
15. For IDDM (TYPE I) patients undergoing surgery, the regular insulin
administration can be done a couple of ways:
a. Administer 1 /3 to 1 /2 the patients usual AM dose and start D5W IV and cover
with insulin as per fingerstick BS or
b. Start 500ml D5W for the first hour, followed by 125 ml/hr of D5W with 1-2 units
of regular insulin (1 unit is used in patients taking < 20 units pre-op).
c. Give usual dose of insulin plus 50 gm of carbohydrate for each missed meal
d. SubQ. insulin 6-10 units Q6h
1. Two types:
a. Essential hypertension (most common)
b. Secondary hypertension: due to renal disease, endocrine disease, oral
contraceptives, pregnancy and coarctation of the aorta.
3. Check the heart: there may be left ventricular hypertrophy with systolic aortic
ejection murmur.
4. Check the optic fundi: they may show retinopathy (indicator of the severity of the
disease).
6. Types:
a. Diuretics: Thiazides: Dyazide, Maxide, Hydrodiuril
b. Beta-Adrenergic Blocker: Tenormin, Lopressor, Corgard, and Inderal
c. Loop Diuretics: Lasix
d. Potassium Retaining: Aldactone, Triamterene, Amiloride
e. Calcium-Entry Blocker: Cardizem, Procardia
f. Combination- Dyazide, Maxide
g. Central Sympatholytics: Clonidine (Catapres)
h. Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Inhibitor: Capoten, Vasotec
i. Arteriolar dilators: Hydralazine, Minoxidil
j. Alpha andrenergic blockers: Minipress, Hytrin
NOTE* Diuretics are first line drugs used to treat hypertension, CHF and
lymphedema. There is concern regarding diuretics because of the
hypercholesterolemic effect of thiazides linked to ASHD 9 ischemic heart disease.
Thiazides can cause hyperglycemia, hyperuricemia and hypokalemia (pre-op
patients taking thiazides should have potassium checked). Therefore these drugs are
going out of favor as a first line drug for hypertension, replaced by calcium channel
blockers and ACE inhibitors. Loop diuretics (Lasix) are used in hypertensive patients
with fluid retention refractory to thiazides and in patients with impaired renal
function.
Beta blockers are effective in treating hypertension because they decrease the
heart rate, cardiac output and decrease renin release. These drugs prevent angina.
Beta blockers can precipitate bronchial asthma, Raynaud's phenomenon and
aggravate existing peripheral vascular disease.
ACE inhibitors are often used as a first line drug in treating hypertension.
They work by inhibiting the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. They are effective
vasodilators for the treatment of CHF.
Clonidine is a second line drug in treating hypertension. A severe rebound in
blood pressure may occur if the drug is abruptly discontinued, therefore, should be
continued perioperatively (4-6 hr pre-op)
10. Acute elevations of BP are usually seen postoperatively which can be due to:
PAIN, REACTION TO ENDOTRACHIAL TUBE, VOLUME OVERLOAD, AND
EMERGENCE EXCITEMENT
11. Post-op hypertensive episodes are treated by eliminating the cause and if
necessary giving the following: sub-lingual Procardia or can give diuretics IV or
nitropatch, sublingual nitroglycerin, or nitroprusside
NOTE* Procardia given sublingually reduces blood pressure quickly, but does not
drop it below normal
13. Potassium levels in all patients taking diuretics must be measured pre-op
and adequately replaced prior to surgery to prevent hypokalemia associated
cardiac arrhythmias
NOTE* There will be suppression of the HPA axis if any patient has taken more than
7.5mg/day of prednisone for longer than one week prior to surgery
2. Therefore, if a patient has taken more than 7.5mg/day of prednisone, then
exogenous steroids must be supplied during the perioperative period. Otherwise
there could be a resulting HYPOTENSION AND CARDIOVASCULAR COLLAPSE
NOTE* For minor procedures done under local sedation the following can be done: 15
mg prednisone PO 6AM before the surgery, 15 mg prednisone PO that same
afternoon, and 15 mg prednisone the next afternoon following the surgery
4. For major procedures the dosing is the same as above except the doses Q8h
should continue until the stress of the postoperative period has passed.
6. Special care must be taken with patients who have Addison's disease.
The Asthmatic Patient
1. Consider local or spinal anesthesia
2. Heparin type:
a. Inhibits intrinsic clotting pathway
b. Used as short term therapy for prophylaxis against DVT's
c. DOSAGE REGULATED ACCORDING TO PTT (that's when you are treating, and not
prophylaxing)
d. EFFECTS REVERSED WITH PROTAMINE SULFATE
3. Coumadin type:
a. Inhibits extrinsic clotting pathway
b. Used as long term therapy
c. DOSAGE REGULATED ACCORDING TO PT
d. EFFECTS CAN BE REVERSED BY VIT. K (delayed) OR FFP (immediate)
4. For patients undergoing surgery, stop anticoagulants 3-6 days prior to
surgery and reinstate therapy postoperatively 24 hours after the
procedure. If you are worried about your patient not being on anticoagulants,
you can stop coumadin 3 days prior to surgery and start a heparin drip and stop
that 2-4 hours preoperatively
NOTE* Bleeding time is especially useful if the patient is on aspirin, as aspirin stops
platelet aggregation (must stop aspirin 1 week prior to surgery)
4. Bleeding diseases:
a. Von Willebrand's Disease
i. Abnormal factor VIII, PROLONGED PTT & BLEEDING TIME
ii. Treat with fresh frozen plasma
b. Hemophilia
i. Type a: factor VIII deficiency
ii. Type b: factor IX deficiency
iii. Type c: factor XI deficiency
iv. ALL 3 TYPES HAVE NORMAL BLEEDING TIME AND PROLONGED PTT
v. Treat with: Factor replacement, fresh frozen plasma, whole blood,
cryoprecipitate (4-6 units preoperatively and postoperatively), lyophilized
concentrate
c. Vitamin K Deficiency
i. Vit K effects both intrinsic and extrinsic clotting pathway
ii. PTT & PT are prolonged
iii. Treat with 10 mg of vit K subQ: normalizes pt in 8 hrs.
NOTE The hemophiliac patient must achieve a level of 70-100% prior to surgery,
with a minimum of 40% being attained for 10 days
NOTE* Due to the increased incidence of Hepatitis C and HIV with these patients,
use caution
The Rheumatoid Patient
1. Order CERVICAL SPINE X-RAYS PRE-OP (predisposition for atlas/axis
dislocation)
5. If the patient is receiving gold salts for RA therapy, their potential toxic side
effects should be looked for (urticaria, skin eruptions, mouth ulcers,
eosinophilia, albuminuria, and leukopenia), especially in the urinalysis which
can document substantial protein loss. If the drugs are not withdrawn after the
onset of the side effects, patients can experience life threatening exfoliative
dermatitis, nephritis, and thrombocytopenia
NOTE* In the preoperative evaluation of the patient suspected of having sickle cell
disease or trait the following tests are indicated:
a. Sickle-cell prep
b. Hemoglobin electrophoresis (for those with uncertain hemoglobinopathies)
NOTE* There is no specific therapy presently available for this disease. Treatment
consists of symptomatic relief along with adequate hydration and analgesics.
Oxygen therapy, alkalizing measures, and vasodilators have been used in attempts
to shorten the crisis
3. All risk factors such as unstable angina and cardiac failure should be
stabilized preoperatively
4. Pre-op studies should include the studies for the normal patient undergoing
general anesthesia, plus EKG, chest x-ray
Antibiotic Regimen: Amoxicillin 2gm IV 30 min pre-op followed by 1gm q8h post-op
IF PENICILLIN ALLERGY: Vancomycin 1gm IV or Clindamycin 300mg PO pre-op and
150mg post-op.
NOTE* Probably the best prophylaxis (when indicated) should be IV penicillin or 1st
generation cephalosporin
6. Administer Heparin 5,000u subQ in selected cases for prophylaxis for venous
thromboembolic disease. These patients are the ones with previous history of
a. IDIOPATHIC THROMBOPHLEBITIS
b. CHF
c. OTHER DISEASES WHERE VENOUS STASIS MAY OCCUR
NOTE* Barbiturates are not generally recommended in infants as they can cause
paradoxic restlessness and excitement
3. Antibiotics:
a. Amoxicillin or clindamycin PO
b. First generation cephalosporin (Ancef), Unasyn, or Vancomycin IV
NOTE* Allopurinol rather than uricosuric drugs is indicated for patients excreting
more than 600 mg of uric acid in 24 hours
NOTE* Postoperative attacks of gout are managed as in any patient with acute gouty
arthritis
Chapter 4: Preoperative
Evaluation
Screening Procedures
Summary of Perioperative Laboratory Testing
THE PREOPERATIVE EVALUATION
An adequate pre-op preparation of the surgical patient is of the utmost
importance. The quality of pre-anesthetic care largely determines the outcome,
especially in patients with significant medical problems. What will constitute
proper pre-anesthetic screening will vary from patient to patient according to
their physical status and chronological age. The anesthetic technique
applicable to healthy patients for simple procedures will differ from a more
complex technique for major procedures.
Screening Procedures
1. The History: A medical history obtaining relevant information:
a. DOES THE PATIENT HAVE AN M.D. AND IS HE/SHE PRESENTLY
TREATING THIS PATIENT
b. PRESENT or PAST MEDICAL PROBLEMS
c. PREVIOUS HOSPITALIZATIONS/SURGERY & PROBLEMS WITH
ANESTHESIA OR CLOTTING OR SCAR FORMATION
d. TAKING ANY MEDICATIONS FOR ANYTHING (RX OR OTC'S)
e. ANY KNOWN ALLERGIES
f. FAMILY HISTORY ( SICKLE CELL, DIABETES, HYPERTENSION, REACTION
TO ANESTHESIA, ETC.)
g. SOCIAL HISTORY (SMOKING, DRINKING, DRUGS ETC.)
h. REVIEW OF SYSTEMS
NOTE* A WBC LESS THAN 4, 400= LEUKOPENIA Leukopenia can be due to:
a. SEVERE INFECTION OR SEPTICEMIA
b. HEPATITIS
c. DRUGS (SULFA, ANALGESICS, BUTAZOLIDIN, THORAZINE)
d. TRAUMA AND AIDS
e. MYELOPROLIFERATIVE DISORDERS (MOST COMMON)
ii. WBC differential: allows for identification of the proportions of each type of
WBC for a more specific diagnosis of a disease entity
Divided into 2 groups: Granulocytes (neutrophils, eosinophils, basophils) and
Nongranulocytes (lymphocytes, monocytes)
NON-GRANULOCYTES:
Lymphocytes (20-40%): involved in antibody production, function in cell-
mediated immunity, delayed hypersensitivity, graft rejection, defense against
intracellular organisms such as tubercle bacillus, brucella, and neoplasms. An
Increase can indicate VIRUSES (MOST COMMON), GERMAN MEASLES,
BRUCELLOSIS, CONGENITAL SYPHILIS, THYROTOXICOSIS, PERTUSSIS, AND
MONONUCLEOSIS. A decrease can indicate HODGKIN'S DISEASE, DRUGS.
OR IRRADIATION, AND IMMUNOLOGICAL DEFICIENCY DISORDERS.
Monocytes (4-8%): transform into macrophages which destroy/ingest
bacteria etc. An Increase can indicate RECOVERY FROM ACUTE INFECTIONS,
SUBACUTE BACTERIAL ENDOCARDITIS,
MYCOTIC/RICKETTSIAL/PROTOZOAL & VIRAL INFECTIONS, HEMATOLOGIC
DISEASE, LEUKEMIA, AND HODGKIN'S DISEASE.
GRANULOCYTES:
Neutrophils (45-65%): same as PMN's (either SEGS 40-60% or Bands 05%).
The first specific line of defense for the body, an increase being called a SHIFT
LEFT (of immature neutrophils, called bands) usually indicating an acute
bacterial infection. A decrease in neutrophils, NEUTROPENIA, may indicate an
OVERWHELMING BACTERIAL INFECTION, SEVERE FUNGAL OR VIRAL
INFECTION, BONE MARROW DEPRESSION, AUTOANTIBODIES, BONE
MARROW REPLACEMENT, HYPERSPLENISM, AND MATURATION DEFECTS
(VITAMIN DEFECTS)
An Increase in neutrophils, NEUTROPHILIA, can indicate: INFECTION
Neutropenia may be the earliest clue to marrow failure
(TYPHOID), TOXIC AGENTS, PHYSICAL OR EMOTIONAL STIMULI, TISSUE
NECROSIS, HEMORRHAGE, HEMOLYSIS, AND HEMOLYTIC DISORDERS, OR
RECENT STRAINED DEFECATION (VALSALVA MANEUVER).
Decreased platelet count increases the risk for hemorrhage. If the platelet
count is less than 60,000 give platelets (1 unit will raise the count
5,000/cu mm. For any elective surgery the thrombocytopenic patient
should be postponed
• That portion of the total blood volume occupied by red cells versus plasma
• Increased with POLYCYTHEMIA, DEHYDRATION OR ADDISON'S DISEASE
• Decreased with anemias and hemorrhage
NOTE* The mechanism for blood clotting may be divided into 3 stages:
Stage 1: The production of plasma (extrinsic) or tissue (intrinsic) thromboplastin
to form prothrombin activator.
Stage 2: The conversion of fibrinogen to fibrin by the proteolytic action of
thrombin.
Stage 3: The conversion of fibrinogen to fibrin by the proteolytic action of
thrombin. Calcium is required for all stages.
The SGOT parallels the SGPT AL , whose normal values = 1-60 IU/L,
except the SGOT shows higher values with MI and the SGPT has higher
values with LIVER PATHOLOGY
4. URINE ANALYSIS:
a. A multitest dipstick is used on the urine to get rough readings on glucose,
acetone, bile, urobilinogen, protein and blood. The urine is then centrifuged
and the solid matter goes to the bottom and is then examined microscopically
for red/white/epithelial cells, crystals and casts.
b. Also checked is the color, clarity, pH and specific gravity
c. The specific gravity range is 1.020-1.032. (when concentrated in the AM)
A measure of the kidney's ability to concentrate and the SG is elevated by
extra glucose (diabetes) and protein due to increased concentration in the fluid.
d. All glucose in the urine is competely reabsorbed by the proximal tubules,
therefore the appearance of glucose in the urine when the blood glucose levels
is below 180 (250 IN SOME TEXTS) may signify proximal tubule damage.
e. Small amounts of protein are found in the urine (albumin and globulins),
however, large amounts in excess of 4gms daily indicate glomerular disease
(mostly albumin)
f. Ketone bodies accumulate due to altered lipid metabolism, most frequently as
a consequence of diabetes mellitus or low carbohydrate diet
g. OCCULT hematuria occurs from: EXCERCISE (#1), CYSTITIS,
HEMORRHAGE, MENSTRUATION, GLOMERULONEPHRITIS, HYPERTENSION,
POLYCYSTIC DISEASE AND RENAL THROMBOSIS
i. Microscopic hematuria seen with acute infection, sickle cell anemia,
excercise, menses and SBE.
h. GROSS hematuria associated with stones, tumors, TB, and acute
glomerulonephritis.
i. Normal urine is slightly acidic, pH usually below 5.3, is-altered by diet or
medications
i. An alkaline urine in the presence of metabolic acidosis suggests Renal
Tubular Acidosis.
NOTE* With WBC casts, the cells become emulsified in the protein matrix and may
be found in pyelonephritis, acute glomerulonephritis, or SLE.
The cells in RBC cell casts are emulsified in protein matrix and are indicative of
glomerulitis.
Casts containing fat droplets are called fatty casts and are associated with
nephrotic syndrome
5. Pregnancy testing:
Should be performed on all women within childbearing years
6. Chest x-ray:
This compliments the H & P as a starting point for the diagnosis and evaluation
of suspected pulmonary disorders. Abnormalities seen on the x-ray are: CHF,
pulmonary masses, pleural effusions, pneumonia. Remember that the chest x-
ray alone is not a good indicator for operative risk
7. Electrocardiogram:
Recommended that all patients over the age of 40 have this test done, however,
a poor predictor of ischemic heart disease and perioperative
cardiac morbidity and mortality. Electrocardiography is a graphic
representation of the electrical currents associated with the contraction of the
heart muscle. The basic function of the electrocardiographic monitor is to
amplify the small voltage formed by the depolarization of the heart so that it
can be presented on the screen for visual monitoring or so that a graphic record
can be made.
a. Conduction mechanism of the heart
i. Sinoatrial node (SA): The electrical impulse is formed in the SA node, which is
the physiologic pacemaker of the heart, located at the junction of the right
atrium and superior vena cava
ii. Atrioventricular node (AV): After the SA node the impulse speeds to the AV
node, at the junction of the atria and ventricles
iii. Bundle of His: After the AV node fires, the impulse travels to the bundle of
His, then the right and left bundle branches, Purkinje's fibers, and the
ventricles
b. The normal electrocardiogram:
i. P wave: Indicates the results of the electrical activity during atrial
depolarization that initiates atrial contractions
P-R interval: Represents the time it takes the impulse to spread from the SA
node to the ventricles (normal time 0.12-0.20 sec)
2. Urinalysis:
a. Dipstick: Protein, blood, glucose, ketones, pH
b. Microscopic exam: RBC's, WBC's, cellular casts, bacteria, crystals
6. EKG:
a. Rate
b. Rhythm
c. Intracardiac conduction times (PR interval, QRS interval, QT interval)
d. Chamber enlargement (hypertrophy of myocardium)
e. Myocardial infarction patterns (pathologic Q waves)
f. ST segments of ischemia
Chapter 5: Postoperative Care
&
Complications
Fever
Altered Mental States
Water and Electrolyte Imbalance
Oliguria
Chest Pain
Postoperative Hypertension
Postoperative Infection
Anxiety and Pain Management
Nausea
Constipation
Shivering
DVT
Compartment Syndrome
Hemorrhage
Septic Syndrome
Thyroid Storm
POSTOPERATIVE COMPLICATIONS
The number of potential post-operative problems is large, with some occurring
more frequently. Those are FEVER, ALTERED MENTAL STATUS, WATER &
ELECTROLYTE DISTURBANCES, RENAL FAILURE, CHEST PAIN, SHORTNESS
OF BREATH AND HYPERTENSION (A hospitalized patient developing cough,
fever and an abnormal chest x-ray after prolonged general anesthesia and a
patient with the same fin dins following a procedure done under local
anesthesia must be viewed differently)
Fever
Temperature> 101.6 orally: Fever is the most common post-op problem. The
time of occurrence is an important clinical guide in determining the etiology.
Fever can also occur without any associated pathological conditions.
4. Risk factors:
a. Surgery over 2 hours in time
b. Transfusion
c. Pre-existing infection
d. In place prosthesis or shunt
Oliguria
1. Due to:
a. BLADDER OBSTRUCTION
b. THE COMBINATION OF BEDREST/PROSTATIC
HYPERTROPHY/ANALGESICS (DEMEROL***)
c. ISCHEMIC INSULTS
d. NEPHROTOXIC DRUGS
Chest Pain
1. Etiology:
a. MI
b. PULMONARY EMBOLUS
c. PNEUMONIA
d. ANXIETY
e. ATELECTASIS
f. ASPIRATION
g. CHF
2. Treatment:
a. Must perform EKG, chest x-ray, arterial blood gases (establishes probability
of a diagnosis)
b. May do VENTILATION PERFUSION RADIONUCLEOTIDE LUNG SCAN (A
negative study R/O P.E.)
c. If doubt remains, can do: PULMONARY ANGIOGRAPHY (Most specific and
sensitive test for P.E.)
d. A distinction should be made between ASPIRATION PNEUMONIA AND
ASPIRATION PNEUMONITIS.
NOTE* The former is caused from aspiration of sterile/acidic gastric contents and
results in a chemical pneumonitis. The latter occurs when polymicrobial oral
secretions are introduced into the pulmonary system.
Post-op Hypertension
1. Etiology:
a. Noxious stimuli (most common): Pain, excitement (emergence from general
anesthesia), shivering, and mild hypothermia
b. Drug induced: Withdrawal from beta blockers
c. Metabolic abnormalities: Pheochromocytoma, Cushing's syndrome
d. Miscellaneous: Fluid overload, distended bladder, tight cast
Postoperative Infection
1. Can occur 3-7 days postoperatively
2. Group A Strep can occur earlier
3. Symptoms
a. Increased throbbing pain
b. Swelling
4. Signs
a. Wound drainage
b. Wound dehiscence
c. Erythema
d. Fever
5. Treatment: Decide on hospital or outpatient therapy
Nausea
1. Prolonged vomiting can lead to dehydration therefore must be
prevented or controlled.
2. Postoperative nausea responds well to:
a. Phenothiazine antiemetics (Compazine, Phenergan, Trilafon).
b. Other treatment can include the use of antihistamines (Benadryl, Atarax) c.
Tigan 100mg IM, can be of benefit
d. In children you can use Emetrol (5-10ml Q 15 minutes)
NOTE* Can prevent postoperative nausea by using a Scopolamine patch behind the
ear. This is applied preoperatively and worn perioperatively and postoperatively.
The only adverse effect is blurred vision postoperatively
Constipation
1. Can be a problem especially with elderly patients
a. Begin treatment 1st with the mildest treatment, a laxative cathartic, milk of
magnesia (watch the electrolytes)
b. If unsuccessful then try Colace 50-250mg
c. If unsuccessful then use a contact cathartic, Dulcolax
Note* All laxatives and cathartics are contraindicated in patients with cramps,
colic, nausea, vomiting and any undiagnosed abdominal pain.
Shivering
1. Can occur postoperatively and is not associated with fever or infection,
but as a reaction to general anesthesia (22-50% of cases). The incidence
seems to be increased in prolonged cases and in those involving large amounts
of blood loss, fluid administration, or both. Shivering may also be seen after
epidural anesthesia. Shivering is associated with several undesirable
physiologic effects. Oxygen consumption, carbon dioxide production, and
metabolic rate may increase as much as 500% above baseline levels
a. Treatment is IM injection of 12.5-25mg of Demerol
b. Bear hugger forced air warmer
DVT
1. Lower extremity surgery plus the use of pneumatic tourniquets for
hemostatic control, immobilization, obesity, bedrest, and oral
contraceptives are all predisposing factors
a. Symptoms: Fever (101 °F) after 24 hours, calf tenderness
b. Signs: Swelling of the calf in the later stages
c. Diagnostic tests: Duplex scan, venogram
NOTE* A painful swollen leg and a positive duplex scan are criteria to initiate
treatment for a DVT. However, a swollen/painful leg plus a questionable scan
requires a venogram for adequate criteria to initiate treatment
NOTE* Fever may be the only initial warning but also occurs with other
postoperative problems, therefore, must work up the patient completely prior to
initiating treatment
d. Treatment: After drawing blood for a coagulation profile, treat with Heparin
IV 5000-10,OOOU followed by a constant infusion of 1000-1500U/HR. The PTT
is kept at 2 times the baseline and the PT is kept at 1 and 1/2 the baseline.
Coumadin is also utilized (to help prevent pulmonary emboli) and should be
started upon admission, to the hospital as it takes 3-5 days to start working.
The patient can eventually be discharged on p.o. Coumadin
Compartment Syndrome
Usually diagnosed in the arm and leg, also occurs in the foot, and can follow
several types of injuries, most commonly multiple fractures or crushing
injuries. This entity should be considered in the differential diagnosis in
patients presenting with a painful swollen foot post trauma
4. Clinical Findings:
a. Pain out of proportion to the clinical findings
b. Paresthesias
c. Pulselessness
d. Or none of the above
Note* The patient might present with a pulse because the vascular collapse
occurs first at the arteriolar level
5. Associated complications:
a. Comminuted fractures
b. Severe soft tissue injuries
c. Post-ischemia swelling
d. Intramuscular hematomas associated with bleeding diathesis
e. Crush injuries
7. Treatment:
a. Fasciotomy
1. Double dorsal technique
NOTE* Midfoot and forefoot: 2 dorsal longitudinal incisions, one over the 2nd
metatarsal and the other over the 4th (deepened down to the metatarsal shaft)
where a hemostat is passed into each adjacent interosseous space, where the
interosseous muscle is stripped from its corresponding metatarsal. The wound
is closed secondarily in 5 days. If closure cannot be completed, then skin
grafting is employed
Hemorrhage
The incidence of major hemorrhage is low considering the total number of
surgeries done in the U.S. The use of blood products is an important decision
that any surgeon must make considering the impact of AIDS seen in
transfusion medicine today.
1. Physiology of anemia:
a. Sufficient amounts of Hb and cardiac output must be present to supply
tissue demands
b. A 20-30% volume loss leads to hypotension and shock, the end result is
tissue hypoxia
c. As the hemoglobin decreases the cardiac output increases (cardiac output is
increased as stroke volume increases)
d. The hematocrit level requiring transfusion is still under debate. However, it is
considered advisable to consider transfusion when the Hb is 7 Gm/dl or less.
Some will transfuse if Hb is under 10 Gm/dl, which is an HCT of 30%
3. Complications:
a. WBC-mediated allergic type reaction, or immune reaction to minor group
factors
b. Human error causing major cell lysis, mistyping, and hemolytic transfusion
reactions
c. Disease transmission
i. Hepatitis B and C are greatest risks
ii. AIDS (1-50,000 transfusions reported)
Septic Syndrome
In patients who have had recent major surgery, prompt and accurate diagnosis
of sepsis often is difficult. Many of the features commonly attributed to sepsis
(fever, leukocytosis) are normal phenomena in the postoperative period 1.
Criteria: The most important criteria is evidence of an infection based upon a
high index of clinical suspicion using the following
a. Fever > 101 °F or hypothermia < 96°F
b. Heart rate > 90 beats per minute
c. Respiratory rate > 20 breaths per minute
d. Evidence of organ dysfunction
e. A PaO2 < 75 mmHg
f. Elevated plasma lactic acid levels
g. Altered mentation
2. Treatment:
a. Empiric broad spectrum antibiotics in maximum doses
Thyroid Storm
This represents the extreme state of decompensated
thyrotoxicosis. Thyrotoxic patients inadequately prepared are at great risk for
developing thyroid storm from the stress of surgery
1. Signs and symptoms:
a. Tachycardia
b. Fever
c. Arrhythmias
d. Agitation, psychosis, coma (CNS always affected)
e. GI symptoms (abdominal pain, jaundice vomiting
f. Dyspnea
2. Treatment:
a. Propranolol 1-2 mg IV with continuous cardiac monitoring. Repeat every 5
minutes until the pulse rate drops to 90-110
b. PTU 300 mg PO q6h (antithyroid drug: propylthiouracil)
c. Saturated solution of potassium iodide 10 drops PO q8h
d. Hydrocortisone 200 mg IV q8h
e. General supportive therapy with acetaminophen, IV's and peripheral cooling
3. Prevention:
a. Good history
b. Appropriate lab tests (T3, T4, TSH, serum cholesterol)
c. Endocrinology consult to determine if thyroid disease is primary or secondary
and to monitor treatment
Chapter 6: Infectious Diseases
Specific Diseases
Principles of Antiinfective Therapy Antibiotics
Drug Fever
Specific Antimicrobial Therapy Surgical Considerations
Necrotizing Infections
Osteomyelitis
Septic Arthritis
Mycology
Viral Diseases
Rickettsial Diseases
Protozoan and Metazoan Infections
INFECTIOUS DISEASE
Specific Diseases
1. VIRAL HEPATITIS: types A, B, non-A, non-B, C, E, and delta
a. Hepatitis B, non-A and non-B cause chronic liver disease that can lead to
cirrhosis
2. AIDS: HIV
a. HIV is one of a number of RNA retroviruses possessing a unique enzyme,
REVERSE TRANSCRIPTASE, which allows the virus to synthesize DNA from
RNA or synthesize DNA backwards; as RNA viruses they can make DNA that
may interfere or incorporate into the DNA of the host cell
b. TARGET-THE IMMUNE SYSTEM:
i. HIV infection follows viral recognition of certain molecular receptors (CD-4) on
the surface of human cells, both the T4 lymphocyte and on the macrophages
and monocytes (This is the key cell surface glycoprotein which the AIDS virus
recognizes and renders those cells carrying this marker susceptible to infection).
As a consequence the HIV infection can lead to immunodeficiency
ii. With depression of the circulation of the T-helper lymphocyte population,
host response is impaired to a variety of potential pathogens: bacteria,
mycobacteria, viruses, fungi and helminths
iii. It is known that 40-50% of individuals infected with HIV and having less
than 400/mm circulating T-helper cells will develop the manifestations of AIDS
within 2 years, 80-85% will develop manifestations of AIDS if their T-helper
lymphocyte count is less than 200/mm
iv. Also associated with depression of the T-helper lymphocytes, the natural-
killer (NK) lymphocytes' function are also disrupted (these NK cells are involved
in immune surveillance against neoplasms and virusinfected cells)
v. Also associated with depression of the T-helper lymphocytes is depression of
immunoglobulin (antibody) producing B-lymphocyte, which ultimately leads to
the body's decreased responsiveness to vaccines
c. TARGET -THE CNS: HIV also targets the central nervous system leading to a
subacute encephalitis (AIDS encephalitis)
d. CLINICAL MANIFESTATIONS: A classification for the clinical spectrum of HIV
for adults has been proposed by the C.D.C.: thinking of the potential
consequences of the virus infection on a time line
i. GROUP I- Includes people manifesting acute HIV, transient and selflimited,
characterized by fever, rash, malaise, lymphadenopathy. Incubation period 4-6
weeks after exposure (can be longer). The illness is characterized by serologic
conversion to HIV (+ anti-HIV antibody test)
ii. Group II- Asymptomatic infection with a positive serology and virus culture, a
positive serology but no manifestations of CNS disease (called a Latent state)
iii. Group III- Persistent generalized lymphadenopathy, palpably enlarged lymph
nodes (> 1 cm) at 2 or more extra-inguinal sites persisting for more than three
months in the absence of any other cause: May have other manifestations of the
disease
iv. GROUP IV- Other diseases; individuals in this group have one or more
significant immunodeficiency or CNS disease, divided into 5 .subgroups
according to manifestations:
Subgroup A: Constitutional disease (fever, weight loss)
Subgroup B: Neurologic disease (progressive dementia, peripheral
neuropathy and myelopathy)
Subgroup C: Infectious diseases (pneumonia, histoplasmosis, herpes
simplex, cryptococcosis, et. al.)
Subgroup D: Secondary cancers ( Kaposi's sarcoma, non-Hodgkins
lymphoma)
Subgroup E: Other diseases (chronic lymphoid interstitial pneumonitis)
e. CLINICAL MANIFESTATIONS BY ORGAN SYSTEMS:
i. General- fatigue, weight loss, fever and sweats
ii. Dermatologic- rashes (particularly fungal), seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis,
nail changes and pigmented lesions
iii. Pulmonary- unexplained cough and shortness of breath
iv. Head/ENT- persistent sinus congestion, sore throat, discoloration of the oral
mucosa and tongue
v. Gl- diarrhea
vi. Neurological- headaches difficulty comprehending, behavioral changes,
numbness or tingling
f. TESTING: Seroconversion to a positive HIV antibody test may occur from 4-8
weeks following the acute illness (fever, fatigue, diarrhea, weight loss, night
sweats, and generalized lymphadenopathy).
i. The ELISA (enzyme-linked Immunosorbant Assay) is the primary screening
test to detect the antibody to HIV-1
ii. The Western Blot (Immunoblot) test is used to confirm the validity of the
ELISA test.
iii. A new detection test called the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
demonstrates amplified proviral DNA in lymphocytes, months to years before
antibody can be detected by ELISA or Western Blot technologies
*Zier BG, Essentials of Internal Medicine in Clinical Podiatry, Philadelphia, Saunders, 1990, pg
327
NOTE* There have been studies proving that 70% of all implants have slime
forming bacteria present in large numbers, yet there is no infection. Therefore
the value as mentioned 102 is only mentioned as a reference point for the
board examinations
ii. Systemic signs consistent with fever > 100 degrees F or 37.7 C, with
lymphadenopathy, lymphangitis, shakes, chills and malaise
iii. Lab Studies- X-rays, Bilaterally (always serve as a base line for future
reference)
Note* A left shift is an increase in the number of immature PMN'S or band cells.
When the percentage of bands is greater than 20 or when the percentage of
bands or segs together add up to 80, this is considered a shift to the left.
Infection, toxemia, and hemorrhage will cause a shift left. Liver disease and
megaloblastic and iron deficiency anemias will cause a shift to the right
NOTE* Anaerobic cultures should be obtained in the following circumstances:
a. A putrid odor from the wound
b. A deep abscess, pain without discharge
c. Significant tissue necrosis (gangrened. Gas formation
e. Failure to recover pathogens in the aerobic culture 8 Gram stain
f. The failure of the infection to respond to antibiotics that are not active against
anaerobes
g. Infection secondary to animal or human bite
h. Previous therapy with amino glycosides
i. Black discoloration of blood containing exudates (may fluoresce red under
UV)
NOTE* Anaerobic bacteria are very difficult to culture even in the best of
conditions. The 4 major anaerobes are:
a. Peptostreptococcus (most common)
b. Peptococcus
c. Clostridium
d. Bacteroides
NOTE* A gram stain can be performed within 10 minutes and provides gross
identification of the pathogen to allow for proper selection of antibiotics. A
culture is most accurate and also checks the resistance of pathogens to the
antibiotics. However, a culture does not diagnose an infection, that is a clinical
finding.
NOTE* For osteomyelitis, the most definitive diagnosis is by bone biopsy. With
an ascending cellulitis and no area of drainage, there is a less than 10%
chance of obtaining a pathogen by injecting .5cc sterile saline (without
bacteriostatic agent) along the leading edge of the cellulitis and reaspirating the
solution back into the syringe and sending it for culture. If septicemia is
suspected, blood cultures should be ordered from 2 different sites at the start
of a fever spike.
Antibiotics
The best antibiotic is the one that has the narrowest spectrum, the safest, the
cheapest
1. The Penicillins
a. Penicillin G: Parent compound introduced in the 1940's
i. Good gram(+) and weak gram(-) coverage
ii. Fallen out of favor since many resistant strains (Staph 100% Beta lactamase
producing)
iii. 1 mg PenG= 1667 units
iv. Available as Aqueous (10-30 million u/day) and Procaine (600,000 u Q1 2h)
b. Penicillin VK:
i. Used in severe erysipelas and rheumatic fever prophylaxis
c. Methicillin:
i. For PCN-ase resistant organisms
ii. IV form only
iii. Can cause thrombophlebitis
d. Oxacillin/Dicloxicillin/Cloxacillin/Nafcillin: (PRP's)
i. PCN-ase resistant
ii. Good gram(+) coverage
iii. Oral form can cause diarrhea
iv. Requires frequent dosing, Q4-6 hours
e. Ampicillin: Increased gram(-)coverage
i. Not PCN-ase resistant
ii. Used with UTI, typhoid fever and salmonella infections
iii. Used pre-op for endocarditis prophylaxis
iv. Used in combination with aminoglycosides for gram(-) septicemia
f. Carbenicillin: The original anti-pseudomonal penicillin
i. Can be combined with aminoglycoside for pseudomonas infection
ii. Not used much now since has high sodium content, hepatotoxic,
neurotoxic and causes bleeding disorders
iii. Oral form: Geopen (UTI's only)
g. Ticarcillin: A 4th generation penicillin active against pseudomonas
i. 2-4 times more potent than carbenicillin vs pseudomonas
ii. Has increased anaerobic activity
h. Piperacillin: As above, gram(+) 9 (-) activity
i. Azlocillin: As above but superior to ticarcillin/piperacillin vs pseudomonas
aeruginosa
i. Neurotoxic/Hepatotoxic
j. Mezlocillin (Mezlin): A 4th generation penicillin with good gram(-) and
anaerobic activity
i. Can be used for Pseudomonas/B.fragilis
2. The Clavulanates
a. Amoxicillin/clavulanate (Augmentin): Adds clavulanic acid to ampicillin
which inactivates the beta-lactamase enzymes:
i. PCN-ase resistant
ii. Spectrum of activity increased vs gram (-) to include E.Coli & Klebsiella, also
good Staph and Bacteroides coverage
iii. The oral drug of choice for cat, dog and human bites
iv. Dosed at 250-500 Q 8h (for other than endocard prophylaxis)
b. Ticarcillin/clavulanate (Timentin): Has greater gram(-) coverage than any 4th
gen. penicillin
i. Has good gram(+) coverage and covers anaerobes well (i.e. B. fragilis)
ii. Good drug for initial therapy for moderate diabetic foot infections
iii. Has high sodium load/use cautiously in hypertensive-renal pt's
iv. Dosed at 3.1 Q 6-8h (3gm ticarcillin + 100mg clavulanate)
3. The Sulbactams
a. Ampicillin/ sulbactam (Unasyn):
i. Similar to Timentin but has much lower sodium load
ii. Adds sulbactam, a beta-lactam inhibitor
iii. 99% coverage against B.fragilis/not good against
pseudomonas and good against enterococcus
iv. Dosed at 1.5-3g Q 4-6h.
NOTE* Unasyn has better gram (+) coverage than Timentin, but weaker gram (-)
coverage
4. The Tazobactams
a. Piperacillin/Tazobactam (Zosyn)
i. Similar to Timentin in coverage and spectrum
ii. Adds Tazobactum a Beta lactamase inhibitor
iii. Has greater activity than pipericillin
iv. Dosed @ 3.375 gm Q 6 hrs
5. The Cephalosporins
Semi-synthetic compounds derived from the mold, cephalosporum acremonium.
There is a cross reactivity with penicillin allergic patients from 5-20% depending
upon the source. As a whole, these antibiotics
are well tolerated, non-toxic and broad spectrum. They are categorized in
generations, which define their spectrum.
a. 1st generation:
i. Keflin (cephalothin), Keflex (cephalexin), Ancef (cefazolin), Cefadyl
(cephapirin), Anspor & Velocef (cephradine), Duricef (cephadroxil)
ii. ACTIVITY vs gram (+) cocci: S. aureus and epidermidis, Strep pyogenes and
pneumonia
iii. Activity vs gram (-): Proteus mirabilis, E. coil, Klebsiella pneumonia (PECK)
b. 2nd generation:
i. Mandol (cefamandole), Mefoxin (cefoxitin), Ceclor (cefaclor), Zinacef
(cefuroxime), Ceftin (cefuroxime axetil), Monocid (cefonicid), Cefotan (cefotetan),
Lorabid (loracarbef), Cefzil (cefprozil)
ii. ACTIVITY vs gram (+): is variable to Staph , still OK to Strep
NOTE* Zinacef® and Mandol® are better than 1st generation for Staph
coverage
iii. Activity vs gram (-): as with 1st generation (PECK) plus H. flu, Enterobacter
& Neisseria (HENPECK)
c. 3rd generation:
i. Claforan (cefotaxime), Cefobid (cefperazone), Cefizox (cefizoxime), Rocephin
(ceftriaxone), Fortaz (ceftazidime), Suprax (cefixime), Vantin (cefprodoxime
proxetil)
ii. ACTIVITY vs gram (+): variable to both Staph and Strep
iii. Activity vs gram (-): as with 2nd generation (HENPECK) plus Serratia,
Morganella, Providencia, Citrobacter and Pseudomonas
NOTE* Probenecid 500 mg QID blocks tubular secretion doubling the antibiotic
concentration of penicillin and cephalosporins
6. Other Beta-Lactams:
a. Imipenem/Cilastatin (Primaxin): Is an extremely potent antibiotic with the
broadest spectrum of an available beta lactam including anaerobic coverage/
most expensive antibiotic on the market. Cilastatin is added to prevent renal
hydrolysis (destruction of imipenem)
i. May be the drug of choice in severe/limb threatening diabetic infections ( as
initial therapy) other than clinda/genta/ampi
ii. Major therapeutic use for Gram (+) cocci and aerobic gram (-) bacilli
iii. A 3% cross sensitivity with penicillin allergic patients
Dosed at 0.5-1 gram Q 6h IV up to 4gm/day
b. Azreonam (Azactam): Is ONLY effective against gram (-) aerobes, including P.
aeruginosa
i. Can be combined with clindamycin in penicillin allergic patients when
gram(+)and anaerobes are suspected
7. Quinolones:
a. Ciprofloxacin (Cipro):
i. Its main benefit is it's p.o. gram (-) coverage
ii. Can be used for methicillin resistant staph but should be combined with
rifampin (300 mg BID) in the treatment of these infections
iii. Contraindicated in its use with children as it can cause cartilage
degeneration
iv. Can be combined with clindamycin (Cleocin) or metronidazole (Flagyl) in the
treatment of diabetic foot infections
v. Oral therapy for osteomyelitis when caused by Pseudomonas
vi. Rarely a first line antibiotic
b. Ofloxacin (Floxin):
i. As with the above, but with better gram (+) coverage
ii. Dosed for soft-tissue infections at 400 mg Q 12 h
8. Aminoglycosides:
a. Streptomycin: (used in treatment of TB)
b. Kanamycin (used as an irrigant)
c. Gentamycin: used with methylmethacrylacte beads (PMMA) for osteomyelitis
and in triple antibiotic therapy for serious infections
d. Potentially ototoxic in patients with renal problems
NOTE* Gentamycin is a good drug for use with PMMA because of its good
water solubility, heat stability, and broad antibacterial spectrum. Most studies
have fabricated PMMA beads utilizing 1-2 g of antibiotic powder to 40-60 g of
PMMA
9. Other antibiotics:
a. Vancomycin:
i. Indicated in penicillin allergic patients or those patients needing coverage
against gram (+) organisms, including methicillin resistant Staph
ii. It is possibly nephrotoxic and should be monitored carefully
iii. Red neck syndrome occurs if infused too quickly (not an allergy)/severe
hypotension can result
iv. Oral form is for pseudomembranous colitis only
NOTE* Peaks and troughs for vancomycin can be done. The peak is 20-30,
and the trough is <10
b. Clindamycin:
i. It is used extensively for anaerobic infections and in the penicillin allergic
patient for gram (+) coverage
ii. Can cause pseudomembraneous colitis
c. Tetracycline:
i. A broad spectrum antibiotic used for rocky mountain spotted fever,
Lyme disease, and H. pylori infection
ii. To be avoided in children and pregnant/ nursing mothers (brown
teeth)
d: Metronidazole (Flagyl):
i. An amebicidal drug also with excellent anaerobic coverage
ii. Can be combined with Cipro for more complete coverage
e. Erythromycin, clarithromycin (Biaxin), azithromycin (Zithromax)
Drug Fever
Fever is considered to be drug induced if no other infections or noninfectious
cause is present on the basis of clinical or laboratory evidence, if there is no
known underlying disease or condition, if the temperature elevation is
temporarily associated with the administration of a "sensitizing" medication and
if the fever disappears within 72 hours of discontinuation of the medication.
4. Gram (-): When a gram stain is received and initial therapy is to be started
prior to a C & S the following should be considered: Cipro 750 mg Q1 2h,
Azactam 1 gm Q8h IV, Gentamicin 3-5 mg/kg _IV following a loading dose,
Timentin and Fortaz 1-2 gms Q8h IV, Zosyn (tazobactam/piperacillin) 3.375 gm
Q6 IV
Surgical Considerations
Probably the single most important factor in the control of a postoperative
infection is local care of the wound. Unless all areas of abscess formation and
pus are drained and devitalized tissue excised the adjunctive therapy of moist
dressings, antibiotics etc., will be of little value. The exception to this is a
rapidly ascending cellulitis without areas of abscess formation in which surgical
debridement would be of no value.
1. Outline of General Surgical Principles: try not to use tourniquets, try using
regional anesthesia and not local anesthesia which can spread the infection:
a. Sterile skin prep of foot
b: If a post-op infection, release all skin sutures
c. Explore the extent and depth of the infection, breaking up any loculations if
present, not extending into uninvolved areas
d. If the infection has gone below the subcutaneous layer explore and remove
any deep sutures or necrotic tissue, opening the wound to the deepest portion
of the infection
e. If the infection penetrated the joint capsule, the capsule must be opened, if
an implant is used it must be removed, the bone and cartilage must be carefully
inspected to determine the involvement
f. If an infection extends proximal and distal to a joint both the proximal
phalanx and metatarsal neck must be explored
g. If osteotomies have been done external fixation devices should be removed
h. Once the extent of the infection is determined all devitalized soft tissue and
bone must be removed
i. Samples of deeper tissue and bone, if excised, should be submitted to
pathology for microscopic .examination as well as to microbiology for culture
and sensitivity tests
j. All implant material when removed should be sent to microbiology for culture
and sensitivity tests in order to isolate organisms which may be firmly attached
to the device and not found within the soft tissues k. The wound should then be
copiously lavaged with large volumes of 1% Betadine solution followed by sterile
saline or Ringer's lactate
l. The wound should be packed open with 1/4 or 1/2 inch iodoform gauze for
hemostasis and drainage and covered with gauze soaked in sterile saline or
Ringers lactate. When this dries it acts as a mechanical debriding agent
m. Immobilize and elevate the extremity
n. Keep extremity warm (can use Microtemp heating unit at 102°F)
o. Post surgically, the packing should be changed on a daily basis, and as the
wound starts to granulate less and less packing is necessary p. When
granulation tissue has completely filled the defect, closure of the wound is
attempted, however, for small to moderate surface defects, delayed primary
closure with skin adhesive strips to gradually bring the skin edges together is
attempted within three days after surgical debridement
q. If repeated cultures are negative and clinical appearance of the wound is
clean and well granulated, then the patient can return to the operating room for
irrigation and resuturing of the wound, which is attempted within 4-5 days.
This type of delayed primary closure should be avoided if the defect is large
and/or if the suture closure places excessive tension on the wound
r. If the defect is large the patient may undergo skin grafting when conditions
are right
Necrotizing Infections
The classification of necrotizing infections is difficult. Prompt and oftentimes
empirical medical and surgical therapy must be initiated to save life and limb.
Even with early intervention the rate of amputation and mortality is high, with
all of these patients having some underlying predisposition: trauma, surgery,
burns, malignancy, diabetes mellitus, immunosuppression, human bite
wounds, injection injuries, puncture wounds and PVD.
1. Necrotizing Fasciitis: Widespread necrosis of subcutaneous tissue
YOU MUST TREAT THIS WITHIN 48 HRS
a. Signs and Symptoms:
i. Fever, tachycardia, anemia, shift left and > bilirubin
ii. Hot/edematous/indurated/erythematous extremity
iii. The skin is shiny and smooth with vescicles & bullae filled with a
reddish-brown fluid
iv. Cutaneous anesthesia
v. Later: Tissue slough with grey necrotic subcutaneous fat and fascia b.
Causative organisms- Strep predominates
c. Diagnosis:
i. Extensive necrosis of the superficial fascia
ii. Toxic reaction/altered mental states iii. Absence of muscle involvement
iv. Absence of clostridium as the primary organism
v. No major vascular occlusion is present
d. Differential diagnosis- Lymphangiitis, Clostridial gas gangrene,
synergistic (the aerobes help the anaerobes proliferate) necrotizing
fasciitis/cellulitis and progressive bacterial synergistic gangrene
e. Treatment:
i. Stabilize the patient medically
ii. Penicillin/Gentamycin/Clindamycin or Primaxin
iii. Aggressive incision and drainage with multiple incisions
iv. Daily irrigation and packing
Osteomyelitis
1. Definitions:
a. Osteomyelitis- infection of bone (chronic OM & acute OM, the distinction of
which will determine treatment regime)
b. Sequestrum- dead necrotic bone separated from the affected bone
c. Involucrum- a chronic process where new bone is laid down around dead
bone
d. Cloaca- an opening in along the cortex from where the pus drains
e. Rarefaction- localized loss of bone density (earliest radiological finding when
30-50% of the osseous mineralization has been lost)
f. Bone abscess ( Brodie's abscess)- localized focus of infection within bone
usually found in the metaphyseal region of tubular bones, but can be
occasionally found in the diaphysis (Chronic/subacute OM)
f. Chronic Sclerosing Osteitis (Garre's)- a low grade infection causing sclerotic
reaction without destruction or sequestration
2. Classifications:
a. Hematogenous (AHO)- a form of OM caused by spread of bacteria via the
bloodstream, originating within cancellous bone, which will result in
radiographic findings that start inside the bone and eventually work out to the
cortex and periosteum. Seen mostly in the metaphyseal region in children
with open epiphyseal plates, occurring most commonly in the calcaneous and
femur. In adults it is most commonly seen in the metatarsal heads
b. Direct Extention- is secondary to trauma or surgery, will first effect the
periosteum, then the cortex and finally the marrow. Proteolytic enzymes destroy
Sharpey's fibers
c. Contiguous- is the spread of infection from contiguous soft tissue to the
underlying bone, also will first effect the cortex and finally the marrow
d. Vascular insufficiency
a. Symptoms (AHO):
i. Local warmth over the infected area
ii. Pain and tenderness on ambulation and palpation
iii. Pseudoparalysis (often the only complaint in kids) and possible subtle gait
changes
iv. Palpable swelling if the infection has ruptured the cortex into the periosteum
v. Ulceration or soft tissue lesion(s) may produce contiguous OM
vi. Concurrent infection: Measles/chicken pox may give strep AHO.
Middle ear infections may give hemophilus/pneumococcus/staph
AHO
b. History & Physical: In pediatric AHO recent infections may be implicated as
causative pathogens
c. Laboratory Exams:
i. Same basic studies as with management of inpatient infection
ii. Leukocytosis or a shift left is not commonly seen in acute or chronic OM
iii. Sed Rate is usually increased (a nonspecific exam useful to monitor the
response to treatment)
d. Radiographs:
i. Always take bilateral x-rays for comparative purposes
ii. The lytic process in bone is not visable on x-ray until at least 30%50% of the
osseous mineralization of the area has been lost
iii. The first bone changes occur 10-14 days following the onset of symptom
iv. Baseline radiographs must be taken- (look at the soft tissue first, may find
edema in the contiguous soft tissues, with swelling of one tissue layer as
compared to another)
v. Three stages of soft tissue changes have been discribed in children with AHO:
small deep local. soft tissue in region of metaphysis, swelling of muscles and
obliteration of lucent plane between them and superficial subcutaneous soft
tissue edema which occurs 3 days after onset of symptoms (if aspirate bone
during this phase, should be able to extract pus).
vi. Additional radiographic findings are: periosteal elevation, metaphyseal
destruction (children), regional osteoporosis, sequestrum and involucrum.
vii. Radiographic findings in chronic OM are:
thickened/irregular/sclerotic bone, elevated periosteum, chronic draining sinus
and sequestrum
e. Aspiration (bone/joint biopsy): Confirms the diagnosis, identifies the
organism and aids in determining the treatment plan.
f. Blood Cultures:
i. Are positive in 50% of cases of septic arthritis and osteomyelitis.
ii. The joint fluid in septic arthritis is sterile in 30% of the cases- look at the
blood cultures.
g. Wound cultures:
i. Sinus tract cultures frequently yield gram(-) organisms which are not
responsible for the underlying bone infection.
ii. If Staph aureus is cultured out, there is a 50% chance that this organism is
producing the associated osteomyelitis.
h. Bone cultures:
i. Take specimens for gram stain, aerobic, anaerobic, fungal and acid fast
cultures
ii. Take a specimen for histology
i. Bone Scans:
i. In most patients with osteomyelitis, bone scintograms become positive within
48-72 hours after onset of clinical symptoms (precedes the x-ray changes by
10-14 days)
ii. Predominant scintigraphic finding is a "hot spot" (increased tracer
localization)
iii. The exception to this are "cold spots" which is due to NO delivery of the
tracer due to necrosis or a fulminating destructive osteomyelitis not
accompanied -by significant reparative processes
99m Technetium MDP: is currently the most frequently used radionuclide
It is renally excreted, has a half-life of 6 hours, deposits more in trabecular than
cortical bone and provides more anatomic information with less time, exposure
and expense than Gallium 67 imaging. 99m TC MDP may continue to show
abnormal isotope accumulation after infection subsides as a result of continued
bone repair.
Three Phase Bone Scan: is used to differentiate OM from cellulitis.
Phase 1- at time of injection shows an immediate radionuclide angiogram or
dynamic blood flow, OM and cellulitis both show increased uptake at this point.
Phase 2: 5-10 minutes after injection looking for focal increases (blood pool
image) cellulitis and OM are still positive at this point.
Phase 3: 4 hours after injection (delayed static scan), cellulitis becomes
quiescent at this point.
j. Gallium 67: Almost all IV injected Gallium binds to transferrin, with 1/3
excreted by the G.I. tract and 1/3 by the kidneys. More tracer is localized in the
metaphyseal area. Imaging is done 48 hours after tracer administration.
Resolution of anatomical detail for bone lesions is considerably less with
Gallium than with 99m TC MDP, with higher radiation exposure. This scan is
preferred to 99m TC MDP in evaluating the response to treatment and is not as
dependant on blood flow. More specific in differentiating. bone tumors from
osteomyelitis and more reliable in assessing subacute and chronic infections.
k. Multiple Tracer Studies: When both types of study are needed the bone scan
scan should precede the Gallium scan by 24 hours. The following lists some
scenarios when multiple studies are used:
(+) 99m Tc MDP & (+++) Ga67= infection in the presence of an implant
l. 111 Indium White Cell Scanning: This scan is much more specific for
infection. With this scan, white blood cells are labeled with the tracer (Indium)
and injected intravenously. This technique was developed to detect leukocyte
accumulation at sites of inflammation and abscess formation. Scans are
performed 24 hours after injection. A positive scan is defined as a focal
accumulation of leukocytes that is higher than in the surrounding bone. This
technique is reserved for complicated posttraumatic or post-surgical patients
with equivocal conventional bone scans, in cases where 99m TC MOP scanning
reveals false positive results because of rapid turnover. Therefore, it may be
more accurate in detecting acute infections.
NOTE* Limitations of Scans: Some patients show multiple hot spots at an early
stage of S. aureus septicemia but do not progress to OM. You can have a
negative scan with a confirmed OM due to impaired blood supply (false-
negative). You can have difficulty in differentiating OM from cellulitis. You can
have difficulty in differentiating normal bone repair from bone infection (false-
positive).
6. Contiguous Osteomyelitis:
a. Most common form of OM seen in podiatry.
b. Chronic ulcerations may frequently lead to contiguous OM.
c. May develop when an infection arises in an area adjacent to bone in which a
malignancy is present or bone has received radiotherapy.
d. Staph aureus is the most frequent pathogen.
NOTE* Oral antibiotic therapy prescribed after the original puncture wound
may contribute to a later OM infection
Septic Arthritis
1. Occurs most commonly in infants and children
2. Adults will generally have an underlying disease
3. Pathogens vary according to the age of the patients with S. aureus
predominating in all age groups
a. H. influenza 2nd most common organism in patients under 2
b. N. gonorrhea 2nd most common organism in adolescents
c. Enterobacter and pseudomonas 2nd most common organisms in patients
older than 50
4. Diagnosis is made via sterile aspiration of pus with a positive gram stain and
C&S.
5. Treatment:
a. Serial aspirations vs. surgical decompressions
b. Suction irrigation
c. Parenteral antibiotics
d. Do not use intra-articular injections of antibiotics (can cause a superinfection
or a post-infection synovitis)
Mycology
1. Superficial Mycoses
a. Tinea Versicolor
b. Candidiasis
c. Onychomycosis
d. Tinea capitis
e. Tinea corporis
f. Tinea pedis
g. Tinea cruris
h. Trichomycosis axillaris
2. Deep Subcutaneous Fungal Infections
a. Sporotrichosis: granulomatous infection of the skin and subcutaneous
tissue, spread via lymph channels, skin lesions present as raised erythematous
plaque-like lesions, a chancre will develop at site of entry and has rare systemic
manifestations (Amphotericin B). Often occurs in those working with roses,
whose thorns inoculate the organisms.
Viruses are the smallest and most simple biologic units that can manifest the
essential aspects of a living substance. Some important facts about viruses are:
They are composed of an outer coat of protein and an inner core of nucleic
acid
The viruses reproduce heritable characteristics in a predictable manner
during multiplication and demonstrate genetic continuity
A virus infected cell is immune to reinfection by the virus and also
immune to infection from other viruses usually related to the one which
infected it
The virus infected cell can support the reproduction of the virus which
entered it and may produce new virus particles in a relatively short time
The most common form of damage in cells supporting viral reproduction is
a cytopathic effect which leads to deterioration and results in death and
disintegration
Viruses are classified according to the target organ and similarity of action.
They are:
1. The pox group (vaccinia and smallpox)
2. Neurotrophic viruses (poliomyelitis, rabies, and arthropod-transmitted
encephalitis including Japanese, St. Louis encephalitis, equine encephalitis and
aseptic meningitis)
3. Viseotrophic viruses (yellow fever, infectious hepatitis and homologous
serum hepatitis)
4. The herpes group
5. Varicella and herpes zoster
6. The myxoviruses (mumps and influenza)
7. The lymphogranuloma psittacosis group
8. Miscellaneous viruses (measles, rubella, Coxsackie viruses, the common
cold, warts, etc.)
9. Bacteriophage
Rickettsial Diseases
Rickettsial diseases are caused by intracellular microorganisms which are
classed between bacteria and viruses, and have characteristics of both. These
pleomorphic, cocco-bacillary organisms can cause acute, febrile, self-limited
symptoms usually accompanied by a skin rash. The group of diseases includes
typhus, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, tsutsugamushi, and Q fever. Diagnosis
is via serologic testing (the Weil-Felix test is useful)
1. Protozoan infections
a. Amoebic dysentery
b. Malaria
c. Trypanosomiasis
d. Leishmaniasis
e. Toxopiasmosis
NOTE* Stool examination for the egg larvae and the organisms themselves are
diagnostic for some intestinal protozoa and metazoa. Blood smears using
special staining techniques aid in the diagnosis of some protozoan infections.
Some special stains can detect protozoa in tissue biopsies
Chapter 7: Wound Healing
Repair of Skin
Factors That Interfere With Wound Healing Growth
Factors in Wound Repair Surgical Approaches
Wound Dressings
Suture Materials and Needles Tourniquets
WOUND HEALING
Repair of Skin
There are three basic phases of wound repair: Inflammatory, Fibroblastic and
Maturation
1. Phase 1-Inflammatory Phase Substrate or Lag Phase : This stage lasts 3-4 days
and has 3 parts, vascular, hemostatic and cellular.
a. Hemostasis is obtained via active vasoconstriction of blood vessels damaged
in the wound. Aggregation of platelets also leads to the formation of a
hemostatic plug.
b. Platelet adhesion is in part stimulated by exposure of the platelets to the
proline and hyroxyproline matrix of mature collagen and other connective
tissue components exposed by the injury.
c. Once platelets are exposed to and adhere to the connective tissue matrix,
the platelets are activated. This can only occur in the presence of von
Willebrand components of factor VIII which is released from adjacent
endothelial cells. Activation involves the release of ADP from the platelet. The
ADP stimulates other platelets to stick to one anotherplatelet aggregation.
d. Platelets store calcium and 5-hydroxytryptamine in intracytoplasmic
granules as well as many other growth factors. These are released upon
adhesion and promote further platelet aggregation and vasoconstriction. This
process is termed "degranulation"
e. Platelet stimulation results in activation of phospholipase and hydrolyzed
membrane lipids and the liberation of arachidonic acid. Arachidonic acid is
converted by platelet cyclo-oxygenase into
thromboxane A2. Thromboxane A2 further stimulates platelet aggregation
and is also a potent vasoconstrictor.
f. Contractile protein in the platelet, thrombosthenin, promotes clot retraction.
Clot retraction will not occur unless platelets are present.
g. Coagulation occurs due to the activation of clotting factors.
i. Intrinsic system
ii. Extrinsic system
The end result is the activation of factor X which then converts prothrombin
to thrombin. Thrombin then converts fibrinogen to fibrin monomers, which
polymerize to form a fibrin clot. Fibrin besides promoting hemostasis, provides
a scaffolding for the ingrowth of cells at a later stage.
h. Platelets release a number of other factors at this point which promote
wound healing. These include:
i. Proteolytic enzymes activate the complement system. Also released is 12-HPETE
which in turn stimulates the release of leukotriene B4 an
important chemotaxic agent.
ii. Various platelet derived growth factors which promote various components of
wound healing. (See below)
h. Other substances in the plasma increase vascular permeability. Histamine is
released by mast cells. Histamine increases vascular permeability by causing
contraction of endothelial cells and uncovering
gaps between the cells. Histamine is also a powerful vasodilator. Serotonin
released from the platelet and kinins made from plasma alpha globulins at
the site of injury, also increase vascular permeability.
i. Neutrophils, attracted by the chemotaxic factors arrive in the wound about
6 hours after the injury. They reach their highest numbers at 1-2 days post
injury. If no infection is present, their numbers decline after this.
Neutrophils are responsible for wound debridement through the release of
collagenolytic and fibrinolytic enzymes. Additionally, neutrophils ingest
bacteria.
j. Lymphocytes reach their maximum number in the wound at day 6.
The most important role of the lymphocyte is the synthesis of lymphokines.
Two of the best known lymphokines are the migration inhibition factor
(MIF) and macrophage activation factor (MAF). MIF attacts macrophages
to the wound and MAF activates them.
k. The macrophages attracted to and activated in the wound are actually
derived from monocytes in the blood. They are the most important
inflammatory cells involved in wound healing for the following reasons:
i. They are the only cells able to tolerate the low oxygen tensions at the wound
edge.
ii. They appear in the wound during the first 5 days and have a long life span
(7-10 days).
iii. Wound healing is severely inhibited in the absence of monocytes.
iv. They process and present antigens to the lymphocytes to initiate immune
response.
2. Phase 2- The Proliferative Phase (Migratory/Lag Phase): This stage lasts from 5-
20 days and has three parts: epidermal regeneration, neoangiogenesis, and
collagen synthesis.
a. Epidermal regeneration:
i. The cells at the wound edges flatten out and develop pseudopods (extensions
of their cytoplasm), then migrate across the wound, only migrating over viable
tissue, at a rate directly proportional to the oxygen tension of the tissues
which is highest under hyperbaric conditions. The aforementioned fibrin-
fibronectin network serves as a framework over which this migration occurs.
ii. Intracellular contractile filaments (actin) develop at the periphery of the
migrating cells. These filaments align themselves with the fibrinectin strands
in the extracellular matrix. The interaction of these strands actually
pulls the epithelial cells along.
iii. Other changes occur- the basement membrane under the epidermal cells
changes; the epidermal cells themselves elongate in the direction of the wound
defect; mitotic activity of the epidermal cells dramatically increases, and the
division and movement of epidermal cells may be under the direction of
epidermal growth factor (EGF).
b. Neoangiogenesis: The formation of new capillary buds from blood vessels
near the wound occurs at the same time as the migration of the epidermis. The
development of capillaries towards the center of the wound may be under the
influence of growth factors released by macrophages. As oxygen tension
increases with the opening of new vascular channels, these growth factors are
inhibited and capillary growth slows and then stops.
c. Collagen Synthesis:
i. Within the injured dermis, fibroblasts (surgeon's cell) begin to appear at the end
of the inflammatory process, and adhere to the dermal collagen and fibrin. As
the capillary structure returns to the wound and oxygen tension increases,
fibroblast replication slows. As oxygen tension further increases, fibroblasts
begin synthesizing collagen.
ii. There are at least 5 types of collagen.
iii. Collagen production by the fibroblasts are under control of at least 5
growth factors.
iv. Collagen at this point represents 50% of the scar.
v. The amount of collagen in the healing wound reaches a maximum at two to
three weeks post injury. Remodeling now begins.
Note* The wound reaches 35% of its original strength around the 14th day.
The tensile strength of the wound now equals the strength of the suture and
sutures can be removed at this point.
Tension on the wound stimulates production of collagen which is initially
beneficial.
Therefore excessive tension should be avoided making skin incisions along
the relaxed skin tension lines and using steri-strips when possible.
NOTE* A number of factors influence epithelial repair: It has been shown that
cortisone delays formation of granulation tissue and wound closure; causes
thinning of the dermis and atrophy of collagen fibers; and causes a decrease
in fibroblast and new blood vessel proliferation. This effect can be reduced by
vitamin A. Data is conflicting and there are no dosage amounts or periods of
time described as being a minimum for steroids to have their deleterious
effect on wound healing. Therefore, injections of post-op steroids which is
done routinely in podiatry to reduce post-op pain and edema should be
studied more scientifically.
Note* Only after 6 months and preferably not before a year do you really
know what a scar will look like, therefore, any attempt at scar revision should
wait at least this long.
Surgical Approaches
Skin incisions are planned according to established principles:
a. Anatomical landmarks including vital structures should be identified and
marked with a skin scribe prior to the initial incision (listen with a doppler for
arterial flow)
b. Tension on the healing incision must be avoided
c. Easy access to all structures involved must be possible
d. The incision should be long enough to avoid excess traction on the wound
margins (remember that skin heals from side-to-side and not from end-to-end)
e. Vital nerve and blood vessels should be identified and protected, with skin
incisions made parallel to them
f. Incisions should be parallel to relaxed skin tension lines (RSTL) whenever
possible
g. Excessive manipulation and damage to the deeper tissues must be avoided
by following the lines of cleavage (RSTL) and planes of fascia
h. Scars over bony protuberances or weight bearing surface points should be
avoided
i. Longitudinal incisions or incisions perpendicular to the RSTL should be
located in areas of relatively little skin movement
j. Longitudinal incisions that cross flexion or extension surfaces of joints
should be avoided or at least made in a curvilinear fashion to allow for
flexibility and scar contracture
NOTE* An incision perpendicular to the RSTL will gap widely whereas an
incision made parallel to the RSTL will remain approximated. The RSTL are
created by the directional pull of structures underlying the relaxed skin. The
RSTL are important for the direction they convey. Optimal healing can be
produced by ensuring that the collagen in the scar forms parallel to the
adjacent dermal collagen. Skin expands and contracts along the of direction
of muscle pull, so that if an incision is made parallel to this direction, then the
body responds by depositing increased amounts of collagen to strengthen the
scar.
To find the RSTL one simply relaxes the skin in the area by passive manipulation
or in areas where there is not much motion the RSTL can be found by
pinching the skin over the area. This will form furrows. Pinching in line with the
RSTL will form a regularly shaped furrow and pinching oblique to the RSTL
will give rise to an S -shaped furrow
Wound Dressings
Optimum wound dressings should remove excess exudate and toxic
components, maintain a high humidity at wound/dressing interface,
allow gasseous exchange, provide thermal insulation, afford protection
from secondary infection, be free from particulate or toxic contaminants
and allow removal without trauma at the dressing change.
1. Categories:
a. Alginates:
i. Sorbsan®
ii. Kaltostat®
b. Hydrogels:
i. Carrington®
ii. Core Care®
iii. MPM®
iv. Intrasite®
v. Sososite®
vi. Biolex®
vii. Vigilon®
c. Foams:
i. Flexan®
ii. Hydrosorb®
iii. Mitraflex®
iv. Polymem®
v. Epilock®
d. Hydrocolloids:
i. Ultec®
ii. Triad®
e. Isotonic Saline:
i. Dermagran®
f. Zinc Saline:
i. Dermagran®
g. Transparent dressings:
i. Tegaderm®
ii. Proclude®
h. Hydrophilic dressings:
i. Dermagran®
b. Nonabsorbable:
i. Natural filament
Surgical silk
Dermal silk (Perma-hand)
Surgical linen
ii. Metal
iii. Synthetic monofilament:
Dermalon®, Ethilon® (nylon)
Surgilene® (polypropylene)
Novafil® (polybutester)
iv. Synthetic multifilament
Neurolon®, Surgilon® (nylon)
Mersilene®, Dacron®, Tevdek®, Ethibond®, Ticron® (polyester)
NOTE* Two principles should be kept in mind when choosing suture and the
caliber of suture. The first one is that the less reactive the suture the less
risk that it may potentiate infection (woven sutures tend to be more
reactive than monofilamentous ones). The second one is that the less the
amount and smaller the caliber of the suture used, the less foreign
material is left inside the wound to potentiate infection. Among the
absorbable stitches the monofilament polyglycolic PDS (looses strength in
60 days and is absorbed in 180 days) is the least reactive. The woven
polyglycolic, Dexon/Vicryl (looses strength in 30 days and is absorbed in 70-
90 days) is minimally reactive. Among the permanent stitches, nylon is
minimally reactive. Nonabsorbable woven silk, woven cotton, or
absorbable plain/chromic gut should not be used (with specific exceptions)
as they cause acute inflammatory reactions.
2. Biologic properties: All suture materials elicit a foreign body reaction within
the tissues, which lasts for 5-7 days and is relatively the same for all suture
materials. It has been reported that monofilament sutures and uncoated
sutures produce far less reaction than multifilament and coated sutures. Also
synthetic sutures cause less tissue reaction than sutures derived from natural
materials. The best suture appears to be synthetic, monofilament and
nonabsorbable
3. Needle characteristics:
a. Design:
I. Eye
Closed eye
French eye
Swaged (eyeless) (most commonly utilized)
II. Body
Straight (Keith needle)
Half curved
Curved (either 1/4, 3/8, 1/2, or 5/8 circle)
III.Point
Tapered
Cutting
Reverse cutting
Paper cut or diamond point
Precision-point or hand-honed reverse cutting
Tourniquets
1. Indications: To exert enough pressure on the arterial blood flow to a limb
to produce a bloodless field. Single cuff tourniquets are generally used for
operations lasting less than 90 minutes
NOTE* Test the hemoglobin and type and level before using a tourniquet on patients
with sickle cell disease or trait
3. Precautions:
a. Carefully exsanguinate the extremity (this prolongs the pain free
tourniquet time)
b. In the presence of malignant tumors, painful fractures, or infection
elastic bandage (Esmarch) exsanguination must not be done, only elevating
the limb for 3-5 minutes is acceptable
c. Do not use an elastic bandage for exsanguination in cases where
bacteria, exotoxin, or malignant cells could spread through the general
circulation
d. Inflation must be done rapidly to occlude arteries and veins simultaneously
e. Frequent irrigation is recommended when working under tourniquet
control to prevent tissue drying
f. Prolonged tourniquet time can produce permanent or temporary
tissue/nerve/blood vessel damage. It can also produce changes in the
coagulability of blood with an increase in the clotting time
g. If the blood does not return to the limb within 3-4 minutes after release
of the tourniquet, the limb must be placed in a dependent position
4. Adverse Effects:
a. A dull aching pain
b. Stiffness, weariness, reactive hyperemia, skin discoloration
c. Pathophysiological changes due to pressure, hypoxia, hypercarbia, and
acidosis of the tissue can occur after one and one-half hours of tourniquet use.
Symptoms of tourniquet paralysis are:
i. Motor paralysis and loss of touch sensation
ii. Loss of proprioceptive responses
d. Intraoperative bleeding due to:
i. An underpressurized cuff
ii. Insufficient exsanguination
iii. Insufficient cuff pressure
iv. Blood entering through the nutrient vessels of the long bones v.
Inadequate cuff size
5. Pressure Settings: For each patient, the tourniquet should be set to the
minimum effective pressure, taking into account such factors as obesity
preoperative systolic pressure, maximum anticipated rise in the
patient's blood pressure during the surgery, and the presence of hypertension
a. Published literature suggests an effective tourniquet setting be 75-100 mm
Hg above preoperative systolic pressure above the upper limbs, and two
times the preoperative systolic pressure for the lower limbs when using single
bladder cuffs
6. Inflation Time:
a. Depends upon the patient's anatomy, age, and absence of vascular disease
b. For reasonably healthy adults, there is general agreement that 2 hours
should not be exceeded without releasing the tourniquet for 15-20 minutes
before reinflating, and during this time the limb should be elevated about 60°
with steady pressure to the incision
7. Release of Tourniquets:
a. When the tourniquet is released the wound should be protected from
blood surging back by applying pressure dressings and if necessary elevating
the limb
b. If color is not back back within 3 minutes, lower the extremity
c. It has been reported in the literature then upon the release of bilateral
thigh tourniquets (at the same time) a patient developed asystole.
Therefore, this article suggests that when utilizing bilateral thigh tourniquets,
that there be a 5 minute delay between deflation of the cuffs
Chapter 8: Plastic Surgery
Skin Grafting
Local Cutaneous Flaps
Local Muscle and Myocuteneous Flaps
Fasciocutaneous Flaps Microsurgery and Free Flaps
Diagrams of Skin Flaps
PLASTIC SURGERY
Skin Grafting
1. Definitions:
a. Consists of harvesting epidermis with a varying thickness of
accompanying dermis and placing it on a recipient base.,
b. Split thickness: Includes epidermis and a portion of dermis (the more
dermis included, the thicker the graft)
c. Intermediate split thickness: contain more dermis
d. Thick split thickness grafts: contains most dermis
f. Full thickness grafts: contain all the epidermis and dermis, no fascia or
fat but has the sweat and sebaceous glands
g. Grafts can be autografts (same individual), allografts (same species), isografts
(twins), and xenografts (different species)
h. A free skin graft is completely detached from the body during its transfer
from the donor site
2. Anatomy of skin:
a. The epidermis represents 95% of the skin thickness and dermis 5%
b. The dermis contains sebaceous glands, except in the palms and soles
c. The dermis is principally made up of collagen and elastin
d. The subcutaneous tissue contains the sweat glands and hair follicles
(except in the palms and soles that lack hair)
e. The blood supply arises out of a vascular network that lies on top of
fascia and sends vertical branches up through the subcutaneous tissue and
dermis. The vessels arborize along the way and terminate as capillary buds
between the dermal papillae (the thinner the graft, the more vessels are
transected)
NOTE* A # 15 scapel blade is the proper thickness of the graft, so by placing this
blade into the dermatome, provides a double-check
i. Meshing the donor graft allows for removal of hematomas or seromas and
increases its size (do not mesh at a ratio greater than 1 1 /2 to 1)
j. Inset the graft using a Stent tie-over dressing (or a bolster dressing). The
bolster is built by first placing Xeroform® on the wound then normal saline
soaked cotton in the center. The nylon suture used at the wound's periphery
are then crossed over and tied to each other, forcing out the water in the
cotton. This allows the graft to conform exactly to the recipient site
h. The foot and leg should then be placed in a posterior splint to eliminate
movement/shearing
i. Dressing changed in 5-7 days if meshed, and if unmeshed at 48 hours
to check for fluid accumulation (if accumulation occurs, it should be aspirated
with a needle
j. The graft on the extremity should be kept elevated for 7-10 days, until
venous circulation is fully established
NOTE* It is important that the pressure on the graft does not exceed 30 mm Hg
or else blood flow to the graft will be compromised
NOTE* In the foot it is preferable to harvest the muscle without the overlying
skin paddle as skin graft over the muscle, as the blood supply to the overlying
skin has a very narrow range and can cause significant donor defects if harvested
as a unit
NOTE* A random flap with is obligate 1:1 length to width ratio in the foot is a flap
based on unknown vascular anatomy. Axial pattern flaps have an
identifiable blood flow at their base and have a length to width ratio that
depends upon the angiotome which the artery serves. These flaps must be
preplanned, and can be extended beyond their angigtomes using delay
principles
2. Local flaps:
a. Local flaps are adjacent to the defect and are either rotated on a pivot
point or are advanced forward from their base to cover a defect. They
include a minimum of the epidermis, dermis and subcutaneous tissue. The
donor site is either closed primarily or skin grafted
b. Flaps that rotate about a pivot point
i. Rotation flap: is designed when a pie shaped triangle defect is created to
remove a lesion or preexistent defect. The flap includes skin and
subcutaneous tissue
ii. Transposition flap: are rectangular in shape with rounded edges and can be
rotated 900
iii. Limberg flap: is a type of transposition flap that depends on the looseness of
the adjacent tissue, and is used when the defect has a rhomboid shape (angles
of 60° and 1200)
iv. Z-plasty is a type of rotation flap that is used to lengthen an existing scar
and to reorient them along lines of minimal tension. The Z-plasty consists of 3
limbs of equal length on the shape of a Z, and the angles between the limbs
can vary from 30° to 90 0, and the wider the angle the more the theoretical
gain in length
NOTE* Clinically, 60° has been found to be the most useful and yields a theoretical 75%
gain in length, however, the actual gain in length is anywhere from 28% to 45% less
than calculated. The length of the center of the limb also determines the amount of
length gained, and the longer it is, the larger the gain
v. Interpolation flap: has a soft tissue pedicle with a distal skin island which is
rotated into a defect that is close to but not adjacent to the donor site
vi. Island flap: is a specialized interpolation flap where the only link between
the cutaneous flap and its bed is the neurovascular bundle. This can
be very useful in the foot, as the results are aesthetic, sensate, and
very functional
c. Advancement flaps:
i. Advancement flaps: are moved directly forward to fill a defect without
rotation or lateral movement. A rectangular incision of skin dissected out and
advanced into the defect thereby creating a folding of tissue at both ends of
its base (burrow's triangles), which are removed so that the skin can be
sutured together
ii. V-Y flap: is a V shaped flap whose sides are advanced creating a Y when the
incisions are closed. Can also use a double V to Y flaps when a defect is to
large for one (defects 3-4 cm wide)
1. Abductor digiti minimi flap: Is a muscle flap used to fill defects of the lateral ankle
joint or skin
2. Abductor hallucis brevis muscle flap: The medial counterpart of the abductor
digiti minimi. If more bulk is needed it can be harvested with the medial half
of the flexor hallucis brevis muscle
3. Flexor digitorum brevis muscle flap: can only be considered in the well
vascularized non-diabetic foot, as its harvesting may lead to charcot changes
by weaking the midfoot arch
Fasciocutaneous Flaps
These flaps are thin, pliable, and reliable, however, are not as useful as muscle in
treating osteomyelitis because the blood flow per centimeter2 i s
3-5 times less
1. Dorsalis pedis flap (direct cutaneous blood supply): Is a direct skin flap in the foot,
can be used as a free flap, its advantage is that it is thin and can be used as a
sensory flap if the superficial nerve is incorporated
a. The potential flap territory overlies the artery
b. It is mandatory to know when using this flap whether the arterial flow is
antegrade or retrograde, which vascular system supplies the first dorsal
metatarsal artery, and whether the anterior branch of the peroneal artery is
dominant (if the distal portion of the flap is supplied by the vascular blood
supply from the sole of the foot, then a delay of that portion of the flap
should be done to avoid distal flap necrosis)
c. Should be only used in well vascularized patients as a 2nd resort because of
donor site morbidity
2. Filet of toe flap (direct cutaneous blood supply): Similar characteristics as that of
the sole of the foot (it is filling and sensate), a toe has to be sacrificed. It can be
rotated locally, or carried with its neurovascular bundle for more proximal
placement
4. Plantar flaps: The blood supply to the sole of the foot is supplied by the
medial and lateral branches of the tibialis posterior artery.
a. Lateral plantar artery flap
b. Medial plantar artery flap: better than the lateral artery flap because it is
based on the less important medial plantar artery and is designed over a
nonweight-bearing portion of the sole, and can include the abductor hallucis
ms. to give the flap extra bulk
1. Donor site does not include the foot, and donor site morbidity is minimal
2. The free flap has to have adequate inflow through one of the three distal
arteries (preferably the distal posterior tibial or dorsalis pedis). If adequate flow
does not exist, then revascularization via in-situ by-pass graft is mandatory first
3. Free flap anastamosis, whenever possible, should always be done end to
side so that the distal flow is not compromised
4. For the dorsum of the foot a fasciocutaneous free flap from either the
parascapular area, the radial forearm, the lateral arm or the temporalis fascia
with STSG (the advantage are that these flaps are thin, have minimum donor
morbidity, and have reliable vascular pedicles
5. The muscle flap for the sole of the foot comes from either the serratus
anterior or gracilis muscle
NOTE* The advantage of using vascularized bone is that the risk of infection is
diminished and the bony union is more rapid
NOTE* When compression and rigid fixation devices are utilized, bone will
repair across the fracture gap by direct primary bone repair, with bone callus
being minimal or nonexistent.
Healing at points of contact along the fracture surface begins with the advance of
a capillary bud from the haversian canal. This organized structure advances
in a linear direction and crosses the fracture line depositing lamellar new
bone along its path. The tip of the complex is a group of large multinucleated
cells that function as osteoclasts. They cut their way through existing osteoid
and cross the fracture line into the surface of the opposite fracture fragment
(called the cutting cone).
The osteoclasts are followed closely by a capillary loop as the cutting cone creates a
tunnel in the existing bone substrate. The wall of this tunnel is lined by cells with
osteoblastic activity. These cells produce a concentric pattern of new lamellar
bone as the cutting cone passes and this is loosely deposited along the course
of the haversian canal to exist as mature lamellar bone.
NOTE* Underlying diseases such as rickets, osteomalacia, Paget's Disease of
Bone, hyperparathyroidism, osteoporosis and osteitis fibrosa cystica may all
cause a delay in bone healing
1. Secondary bone healing Involves the formation of fibrous tissue (Phase 3),
primary bone healing does not.
2. Malunion is a misalignment of the fracture fragments along any of the three body
planes including axial rotations, caused by inadequate reduction and
inadequate immobilization.
3. Delayed union is the inability of the fracture to heal within an acceptable time
period.
a. Diagnosis is by radiographic evaluation
b. Treatment is by rigid external or internal immobilation
c. A good prognosticator for healing is the formation and evaluation of
the bone callus
d. Treatment involves stimulating bone callus formation and can be
enhanced by bone drilling, onlay grafts, external electric current and
magnetic field induction e. Bone scans are of little value in differentiating
delayed from non- unions
Treatment of Nonunions
The nonunion must be viewed as more than a fracture that has not healed.
There is often edema, pain, joint stiffness and deformity in the bone, resulting
in impaired function. Consequently, the first principle in the repair of
nonunions is the restoration of function. Treatment of nonunions follows 4
basic concepts:
I. Resection of useless tissue is required to allow healing
II. The osteogenic capacity must be augmented by bone grafting
III. The osteogenic capacity must be stimulated by electricity
IV. The bone has the capacity to unite but has had inadequate
immobilization, so the foot now should be adequately immobilized during
healing.
1. Open nonunions vs. closed: When considering the above concepts one must
first consider whether the nonunion is open (with extensive soft tissue
damage) or closed.
a. Open nonunions are less frequent and more difficult to manage
b. Open nonunions frequently require multiple autogenous cancellous grafts
(poor vascularity so cortical is a poor choice).
c. Stabilization of an open nonunion is critical- can use external skeletal
fixators (stability with minimal trauma to surrounding soft tissues)
d. Following the above stages split/full thickness skin grafting can be applied
next over a bed of granulation tissue.
e. The type of treatment of a closed nonunion (most common) depends upon
the type and etiology, which as previously discussed is based on vascularity
f. Proper evaluation of the nonunion is made via technetium scanning
g. Approx. 20% of nonunions require bone grafting
h. Electrical stimulation can be used but requires patient selection (satisfactory
position of bone fragments, no interposed soft tissue, and positive bone scan)
Fusion
The basic concept of fusion is to eliminate motion where motion normally
occurs through primary bone healing. This is accomplished by removing
cartilagenous surfaces, obtaining anatomical apposition and utilizing some
form of rigid fixation to obtain primary bone healing. Primary bone healing
means membranous bone formation not endochondral bone formation,
without evidence of fibrous tissue, cartilage and no evidence of callus
formation. External callus is evidence of motion at the fusion site and
endochondral bone formation.
Fusion occurs quicker in cancellous bone where there are more osteons and.
better blood supply available than in cortical bone.
Bone Grafting
1. There are essentially two types available:
a. Autogenous (isograft): from the same person or twin
b. Allograft: from the same species- two types available fresh and lyophilized
2. Indications for bone grafting are: osteogenesis, Immobilization, and
replacement
a. Treatment of delayed and nonunions, and pseudoarthroses.
b. Augmentation of defects.
c. Facilitation of arthrodesis
d. Bone blocking procedures
e. Reconstructive procedures (for opening wedge and bradymetatarsia
procedures)
f. Autogenous grafting to treat OM
Note* Corticocancellous grafts (from the iliac crest) gives the best
combination. It looks like the first metatarsal head. Cortical graft looses 80%
of its strength immediately. The weakest point in the cortical graft is at 8
weeks.
4. Autogenous bone
a. is the material for most situations, the advantages are: viable cells and
immunological compatibility
b. the disadvantages are: donor site morbidity, insufficient quantity,
increased OR time, additional risks arising from surgery at the donor site.
c. Soaking in sterile saline prior to use is detrimental; proper short-term
storage should be to place the graft in a closed container covered with a
moistened saline sponge without immersion.
d. Sources are: iliac crest (much bleeding and pain), fibula, and lateral
calcaneus (small amounts).
e. Procedure to remove graft from the calcaneus is as follows:
A lateral incision is made over the calcaneus, posterior to the neutral
triangle, avoiding the sural nerve and deepened by layers to bone. Drill
holes are made outlining a cortical window which is then removed with a
power saw. If cortical bone is not needed it is replaced on the lateral side,
after packing the defect with lyophilized bone and covering the area with
periosteum. Must keep the calcaneus nonweight bearing until evidence of
healing is present.
Lyophilized Autogenous
Freeze dried/devoid of water Fresh/water present
Osteogenic precursor present Same
Non-cellular bony matrix Cellular bony matrix
Osteoinductive property is lost Osteoinductive property
present
Requires good recipient bed Not as critical
Allows for healing by creeping Same
substitution
Unlimited amounts Limited amounts
No morbidity of donor site Morbidity of donor site
Less OR time Increased OR time
Try using autogenous first The preferred
material for repair of
nonunions, especially
avascular nonunions
Note* Place lyophilized allografts in Ringer's lactate for 45 minutes prior to use
8. Differential Diagnosis:
a. Arthrosis
b. RSD
c. Infection
Cartilage Healing
1. Normal Cartilage:
a. Consists of chondrocytes in a glycoprotein hydrated matrix that may
contain collagen and/or elastin
i. Type Il collagen
ii. Ground substance (glycosaminoglycans and water)
b. Nutrition is through synovial fluid (there is no blood supply to the cartilage)
2. Healing phase:
a. Necrosis
b. Inflammation
c. Repair via metaplasia and replication
3. Types of injury:
a. Partial thickness: Usually these injuries do not heal, using shaving and
drilling of articular surface may lead to the development of fibrocartilage
ingrowth
b. Osteochondral heals via:
i. Type II collagen: similar to hyaline cartilage
ii. Type I collagen: fibrocartilage
Chapter 10: Burns and
Frostbite
Assessment and Treatment of Bums
Bum Deformities
Other Types of Burns
Frostbite
BURNS AND FROSTBITE
Assessment and Treatment of Burns
NOTE* R.J. Hinshaw has proven that the. bum progresses over a 48 hour period
following the initial insult. D.M. Jackson has outlined the histopathology in the
burn wound, showing 3 zones: the zone of hyperemia, zone of stasis, and the zone
of coagulation.
2. The depth of the burn is described as first, second, third degree, and recently
fourth and fifth degree. Burn depth is difficult to determine in the early
stages of the injury.
a. First degree (epidermis only, does not blister, painful, heals in 5-10 days):
Involves only a redness of the skin, very sensitive to touch, usually moist,
no blisters, and the surface blanches to light pressure. This indicates mild
inflammation. The most common 1st degree burn is sunburn. The rate and
severity at which a person will burn is dependent upon the radiation, the
absorptivity of the skin, and the length of exposure. First degree burns from
fires may result from a much greater amount of radiation received during a
shorter period of time. However, the two do not vary directly. The same
total amount of heat received by radiation may be more damaging if
received during a shorter period of time. Freezing of skin and body tissues
may produce similar effects to those of heat burns
b. Second degree (epidermis and dermis, mostly hyperemic, moist, may
blister, painful, can take a month to heal: More serious than 1st degree
burns with the formation of blisters (usually), and in the more severe cases,
fluid collects under the skin. The skin beneath the blisters is extremely
sensitive, red in color, and exudes considerable amounts of fluid. Second
degree burns are many times more painful than 1st degree burns, since nerve
endings may be exposed (in 3rd degree bums the nerve endings are deadened
by injury and edema). The broken blisters will expose the body to possible
sources of infection
c. Third degree (destruction of entire dermis and all deep epidermal elements,
avascular, pale to black in color, dark red in children, either heals by secondary
intention or needs skin grafting, painless): Generally do not have blisters, the
surface may be white and pliable with pressure, or black and charred and
leathery, the subdermal vessels do not blanch on pressure, and the
area is usually anesthetic/hypoesthetic. The skin, subcutaneous tissue, red
blood cells, capillaries, and sometimes muscle are destroyed. Burns may be
white, light gray, brown or even charred black. Burns caused by direct contact
between the skin and high temperature substances, may be hundreds-of-times
more damaging than heat flow by radiation or convection of air because of
tissue destruction, loss of plasma from the body, and disturbance of the
body's fluid and chemical balance. All of these cause shock. Destruction of
capillaries can cause gangrene. Pain may be present at more shallow wound
edges.
d. Fourth degree: Burning of muscle (electrical burns)
e. Fifth degree: Burning of muscle (electric and radiation burns)
3. 85% of burns are small and may be treated on an outpatient basis, more
extensive burn patients (>1 5% BSA in adults, >10% BSA in children) treated as
inpatients.
5. Early treatment:
a. The wound should be cooled with cold wet compresses or by immersing it
in ice water, especially if the patient has to wait for debridement. Continue
this treatment as long as the patient does not get frostbite
b. If the wound is not cooled, oxygen free radicals continue to be released by
the drying cells causing arachidonic acid release
6. Treatment of severe burn patients:
a. Inpatient:
i. Stop the burning process: removing all clothing and smoldering material
ii. Establishment of airway: intubate when breathing is rapid and shallow and
patient is in apparent respiratory distress
iii. Replacement of acute plasma loss: especially in 3rd degree burns, Ringer's
lactate first, and plasma later
iv. Manag3m3ociated life-threatening major trauma
v. Diagnosis of metabolic abnormalities especially proteins, fluid, and electrolytes
vi. Protection from bacterial contamination: Pen G 5 million units is given
daily for 3 days as prophylaxis against streptococcal cellulitis. Topical
therapy includes the use of one of the following: silver nitrate solution 0.5%,
mefanide acetate 10%, and silver sulfadiazine 1 %.
vii. Tetanus prophylaxis is mandatory
viii. Control of pain
ix. Operative management: excision of skin (escharotomy) results in burn wound
bed that requires closure with skin graft material Technique of skin grafting is as
follows: the wound is treated with topical antibiotics until the day, before surgery;
saline wet dressings are then applied every 3-4 hours to reduce the debris and
bacterial count of the wound. A wound C&S is taken 48 hours before surgery.
The debridement is carried out surgically with a Goulian or Humby knife to
tangentially excise the eschar until punctate bleeding is encountered. If this
is not available or it is a large area a motor driven dermatome may be used
to debride, the eschar. In small wounds a #20 blade is sufficient. Hemostasis
can be provided with topical thrombin or a lidocaine with epinephrine soaked
gauze. Absolute hemostasis and a bacterial count of less than 105 is essential.
A skin graft is taken with a Pagget or Brown power dermatome, and is meshed
via a meshing machine to permit expansion of the graft. It is rarely necessary to
go beyond an expansion ratio of 1:3 (See section on plastic surgery). A graft
with a larger expansion ratio will give a more disfiguring scar. Staples are used
on the wound edges, and Xeroform® is used to cover the area. A plaster splint is
applied to protect the area from shearing.
b. Outpatient:
i. Remove the burning agent
ii. Wound cleansing
iii. Debridement of the blisters if present and debridement of all debris
iv. Application of Silvadene® cream covered with sterile non-adherent
dressing changed twice a day, thoroughly cleansing the wound with sterile
saline
prior to the next application of antibiotic cream.
v. Elevation of the extremity
vi. Penicillin p.o. or erythromycin or 1st generation cephalosporin
vii. Prophylaxis against tetanus
viii. Analgesics
7. Dressings:
a. Avoid occlusive dressings as they can promote infection
b. For partial thickness, clean superficial burn use a biosynthetic bilaminar
membrane dressing (Biobrane®). Place tightly against the wound and wrap
with compressive gauze (contraindicated in infected wounds)
c. Nonadherent gauze (Xeroform®, Scarlet Red®) if the burn is too old or the
biosynthetic dressing is not available
d. Heterografts (EZ Derm®), a pigskin graft can be used in deep second or dirty third
degree wounds
NOTE* The deeper the bum the more frequently the dressing should be
changed
9. Complications:
a. Adhesions and contractures
b. Late developmental deformities
c. Chronic burn ulceration
d. Squamous cell/basal cell carcinoma, and melanoma
e. Burn scar with nerve entrapment
f. Burn dermatosis, pigmentary changes
g. Polyarthrosis of fingers and toes
h. Traumatic neuralgias and neuropathies
Burn Deformities
Forces must be exerted to prevent bum scar formation and eventual
contracture. Prevention of deformities begins with the initial care. This
includes consulting a physiatrist to help in the fabrication of splints,
expeditious surgery, aggressive rehabilitation, orthoses, and Jobst® type
pressure stockings.
1. The dorsal foot burn (most common) wound contracture results in
dorsiflexion of the rear foot and hyperextension of the m.p.joints, with the
toes being pulled toward the midaxial line. Plantar deformities consist of
flexion of the foot and toes, and an equinus deformity.
2. Surgery for Late Deformities:
a. This requires precise planning
b. For most burn scar deformities, release of the contracture and split/full
thickness grafting will usually be sufficient. Placing the incision across the area
of maximum tension assures the greatest release.
c. TAL lengthenings can be performed as necessary d. Extensor tenotomies
may or may not be indicated
Other Types of Burns
1. Electrical: Can be either low tension or high tension. The type of current,
amperage, voltage, area of the body through which it passes, duration of the
exposure, and the resistance of the body structures all influence the
magnitude of the injury.
a. Low Tension: When the voltage is less then 1000 V. Mostly seen in the
hand while in the home.
b. High Tension : Usually industrial in nature. The burn is the result when the
electrical energy upon meeting resistance is converted to thermal energy. These
injuries require immediate escharotomy and a decompression fasciotomy to
salvage an extremity.
2. Chemical Burns: Factors which influence the severity of a chemical injury are
the concentration or pH of the solution, the mode of action of the agent, the
vehicle, the volume, and the duration of contact. Emergency treatment of a
chemical injury requires knowing precisely what agent caused the injury and
the immediate application of the proper antidote. In nearly all chemical injuries
the most effective expedient is water (immediate and copious). Water washes
away the chemical, reduces the rate of reaction, mitigates the hygroscopic
action of the chemical, and restores the wound pH to normal.
Frostbite
1. Classifications:
a. By degree:
i. First degree: Freezing without blistering (peeling may be present)
ii. Second degree: Freezing with clear blistering
iii. Third degree: Freezing with skin death (ulcers, blisters, and subcutaneous
involvement)
iv. Fourth degree: Freezing with full hemorrhagic thickness involvement and
ultimate loss or deformity of body part (frostbitten tissue appears white to blue
white, and is firm or hard)
b. Superficial vs deep
i. Superficial frostbite: Chillblains
Mildest form of cold injury
Edema of the dermis, vasculitis of the deep and superficial vessels,
blanching followed by white, waxy frozen appearance
Beneath the superficial skin, tissues are normal
Bullae may occur after warming
Rewarm in whirlpool 108°F 20-40 minutes with analgesic support
ii. Deep frostbite:
Mostly involves the extremities
Tissues are icy hard without deep tissue resilience (resembles frozen meat) -No
sensation
Rewarm rapidly in whirlpool as above but with narcotic analgesia
c. Trench foot: Caused by exposure to wet, cold weather, with the temperature
not necessarily below freezing
i. Initially, the foot becomes edematous due to tissue hypoxia and vascular
damage. The tissue becomes cold, white or cyanotic, pulses and sensation are
decreased
ii. The predominating pathology is vasospasm
iii. Warming the extremity causes a cascade of events, which leads to the
second phase, the hyperemic state.
iv. The hyperemic state is one where the extremity is hot, dry, reddened,
marked by bounding pulses and severe pain (this state is often identical to
frostbite)
v. Recovery from trench foot is characterized by decreasing edema and the
return of normal pulses
d. Hypothermia: The basis of hypothermia is dehydration. The difference
between mild and severe hypothermia is the core temperature. Severe
hypothermia (below 90°F) the heart and lungs begin to fail and metabolic
problems appear
2. Rewarming procedure:
a. Before thawing protect the injured part b. Do not rub or massage the area
c. Take core temperature with hypothermia thermometer
d. Rewarm extremities 100-108°F in a whirlpool with thermometer control
e. Leave blisters and blebs intact
f. Administer narcotics prn for pain
g. Do not debride the injury
h. Tetanus prophylaxis
i. Antibiotics?
j. After thawing, do not allow the area to refreeze
k. Protect the area from mechanical damage
3. Complications:
a. Can result in burn-like injuries
b. Sensitivity of the affected part
c. Raynaud's-like phenomenon
d. Muscle atrophy and fat tissue loss
e. Skin texture affected with the epidermis generally dry with fissuring and
depigmentation
f. Punched out lytic lesions in the bone seen on x-ray
g. Paresthesias
h. Hyperhidrosis
i. Pain may be secondary to permanent vasoconstriction, suggesting loss of
autonomic vascular control and resulting in hypoxia to nerve endings and
other local tissues.
Chapter 11: Bone Tumors
Introduction
Staging Techniques
Surgical Staging System
Radiology of Bone Tumors Bone Tumors
Cystic Lesions of Bone
Other Tumors & Cancers
Bone Tumors: A Quick Reference Chart Phases in Cancer
Development Benign vs. Malignant
TUMORS OF BONE, BONE MARROW
AND CARTILAGE
Introduction
Diagnosis of bone tumors is not the singular effort of the clinician, but rather the work of a team
consisting of attending surgeon, radiologist, and pathologist who will evaluate the history,
provide a comprehensive examination, and order appropriate tests. Differential diagnosis on x-
ray is an interesting academic excercise, but actual diagnosis is more important. Radiologic study
has been compared to physical examination of the lesion in its context. Laboratory adjunctive
testing will provide clues to some conditions. MRI and scans will help to delineate tumors.
Radionuclide uptake procedures can help to locate occult metastatic or synchronous lesions.
Occasionally, even angiography can be helpful.
Bone tumors are either primary or metastatic. Primary bone tumors can be either benign or
malignant. After a complete history and physical examination, and lab studies, the
management of bone tumors can be divided into 3 phases: (1) radiographic staging, (2) diagnosis,
and (3) treatment. The radiographic staging is designed to provide information concerning the
diagnosis and the anatomic extent of the lesion. The definitive diagnosis always requires
biopsy. Only after these first 2 phases are complete can a rational treatment plan be established
and carried out.
In formulating a treatment plan, the. histogenetic type of tumor, local extent, and possibility of
distant disease must be considered. Clinical factors such as age, size, occupation, life-style, and
expectations also play a key role in the treatment options available
Staging Techniques
The purpose of radiographic staging of a bone tumor is two-fold. The first is to obtain
information concerning a possible diagnosis, and the second is to define the anatomical extent
of the lesion
1. Staging techniques:
a. Plain radiograph demonstrates the bone involved, the region of the bone, the extent and type
of destruction, and the amount of reactive bone formed. It also gives some information of
benign vs malignant tumors (plain film x-rays are a must in the staging of bone tumors)
b. Radioisotope scans (99m Tc MDP) can estimate the local intramedullary extent of the tumor
and screen for other skeletal areas of involvement. It can give information about the biologic
aggressiveness of the tumor via its uptake. This study is also important in post-treatment followup
c. CT: Greatly aids in the diagnosis and anatomic location. Using contrast with CT aids in the
identification of the major neurovascular structures as well as the enhancement of well-
vascularized lesions. CT is the best study for evaluating cortical penetration and osseous detail, and
valuable in the assessment of matrix calcification or ossification. CT is the best technique for
detecting pulmonary metastasis, replacing whole lung tomography.
d. MRI: The best information is obtained when MRI and CT are interpreted together. MRI
more accurately demonstrates the local intramedullary extent of tumors than with gallium-
67 citrate or any other method. MRI is the best technique for demarcating the soft tissue
component of bone tumor and its relationship to neurovascular structures without utilization
of contrast material
e. Arteriography: Since the advent of CT anti MRI with contrast, this technique is not used
much, except in a difficult anatomic location such as the shoulder girdle or pelvis
f. Biopsy:, The purpose of biopsy is to obtain adequate tissue for accurate diagnosis and
grading while avoiding potential detrimental effects to the patient or compromise of the
definitive surgical procedure
Surgical Staging System
The information generated by the history, physical examination, radiographic studies, and
biopsy has been incorporated into a staging system for musculosketetal tumors. The surgical
staging system reflects the biologic behavior of the lesion and its degree of aggressiveness. It
is based on a combination of the histologic grade (G), anatomic site (T), and the presence of
distant metastasis (M) 1. Staging system:
a. Grade (G): Divided into benign (GO), low grade malignant (G1), and high grade malignant
(G2). Grade is based upon a combination of histologic, radiographic, and cytologic
characteristics and biologic characteristics
b. Anatomic site (T): Is divided into intracapsular (TO),
extracapsular /intracompartmentaI (T1), and extracapsular/ extracompartmentaI
(T2)
c. The stages of malignant lesions are designated by numerals 1, II, and III
Radiology of Bone Tumors
1. Making a diagnosis: When attempting to diagnosis bone tumors it is important to know:
the age and sex of the patient, which bone is involved, is it well demarcated, its size and
shape and location, type of periosteal reaction, any soft tissue involvement, any pain and
what relieves the pain, pattern of bone destruction, appearance of the tumor matrix,
appearance of trabeculation, cortical erosion penetration or expansion, and a good medical
history. a. Pattern of destruction: geographic, motheaten or permeative
i. Geographic- usually seen with benign tumors, least aggressive pattern of bone destruction,
indicative of a slow growing lesion, has a smooth or irregular but well-defined margin which
is easily separated from the surrounding normal bone by a short zone of transition. Some
metastatics can look like this.
ii. Motheaten- may be demonstrated by a malignant bone tumor, OM, or . hematopoietic
tumors, indicative of rapidly growing lesion, less well-defined with a longer zone of
transition from normal to abnormal bone
iii. Permeative- demonstrated by certain malignant bone tumors and rarely OM, most
aggressive pattern of bone destruction, rapid growth potential, poorly demarcated and not
easily separated from the normal surrounding bone b. Size, shape and the margin of the
tumor
1. Size- in general, malignant primary bone tumors are larger than benign ones and when
first discovered primary malignant tumors may be greater than 6 cm in size (in some cases)
ii. Shape- tumor with greatest diameter at least 1.5 times its least diameter may include
Ewing's sarcoma, chondrosarcoma and large cell lymphoma (reticulum cell sarcoma)
iii. Margin- sclerosis of the surrounding normal bone indicates a slow growing lesion,
indicating pressure with periosteal or endosteal reaction c. Tumor matrix: calcification or
ossification
1. Matrix calcification- cartilage tumor, may appear centrally located, ring-like, or fleck-like
radiodensity, seen with chondromas, chondrosarcomas and chondroblastomas
ii. Matrix ossification- bone tumor, seen with osteoid osteoma and osteogenic sarcoma
d. Trabeculation:
i. Giant cell- delicate and thin
ii. Chondromyxoid fibroma- course and thick
iii. Aneurysmal bone cyst- delicate and horizontal iv. Non-ossifying fibroma- loculated
v. Hemangioma- striated and radiating
e. Cortical Erosion: Penetration and Expansion
The bone cortex serves as a barrier to the further lateral growth of "certain tumors such as non-
aggressive medullary lesions which generally expand in the direction of least resistance
within the medullary canal. Other lesions, however, may penetrate the cortex in variable
lengths to those aggressive bone lesions which may penetrate the entire thickness of the
cortex in one or more places
f. Type of periosteal response: Buttressing, Codman's triangle, sunburst, onion skin and hair-on-
end
i. Buttressing (thick periostitis)- indicative of a slow growing tumor whereby an expansile mass
presses against the periosteum, which thickens the cortex with new layers of bone
ii. Codman's triangle- a triangular elevation of the periostium seen in osteogenic sarcoma
and other conditions (see Quick Reference Chart)
iii. Sunburst pattern- delicate rays of periosteal bone formation separated by spaces containing
blood vessels, seen with hemangioma, Ewing's sarcoma and osteogenic sarcoma
iv. Onion skin pattern- production of multiple layers of new periosteal bone,
exemplified by Ewing's sarcoma, eosinophilic granuloma, and lymphoma of bone
v. Hair-On-End pattern- similar to sunburst pattern, indicating the most malignant type of
tumor, where rays of periosteal bone project in a perpendicular direction to the underlying
bone (Ewing's sarcoma)
g. Part of the bone involved: Epiphyses, metaphyses or diaphysis
i. Epiphyses- chondroblastoma, giant cell tumor, subchondral cyst, and hemangioma
ii. Metaphyses- solitary bone cyst, osteogenic sarcoma, chondromyxoid fibroma, non-
ossifying fibroma, and chondrosarcoma
iii. Diaphysis- solitary bone cyst, aneurysmal bone cyst, non-ossifying fibroma, Ewing's
sarcoma, enchondroma, fibrous dysplasia, giant cell tumor, and eosinophilic granuloma
Bone Tumors
1. Osteoma (hyperostosis, periosteal osteoma):
a. Is a benign, reactive, expansile tumor-like lesion that may be pedunculated
b. It usually arises from intramembranous bones and may occur posttraumatically
c. Some may represent osteochondromas whose cartilage cap has ossified d. May occur
subungually
e. These may be:
i. Ivory: compact
ii. Spongy: trabecular
iii. Mixed
f. Multiple osteomas may occur in Gardner's Syndrome g. Excision is curative
2. Enostosis:
a. An uncommon, benign, intramedullary island of ossification
b. It may be reminiscent of osteoblastic metastatic visceral cancers c. These are often
asymptomatic, incidental radiologic findings
d. They may occur with Multiple Enchondromatosis and with keloid formation
3. Osteoid Osteoma:
a. Is a benign, osteoblastic, slow-growing lesion that may occur in cortical or medullary
bone
b. The soft tissue center is its NIDUS
c. Some (but not all) patients experience nocturnal, intermittent pain that becomes a
"boring" type of constant pain
d. It many cases (but not all), pain is relieved by salicylates
e. X-rays often show a sclerotic rim of bone around the radiolucent nidus f. Sometimes
the nidus is sclerotic and not visable unless MRI or scans are done
g. Pain may be referred to adjacent joints
h. Lesions adjacent to joints may erode the cartilage
i. Surgery consists of en-bloc resection to include the nidus, (x-rays should be done of the
specimen removed to make sure the nidus was removed) j. Lesions usually are under 2 cm
in diameter, affecting patients in the 1025 year age group (mostly males)
4. Osteoblastoma (osteogenic fibroma, spindle cell variant of giant cell tumor, giant osteoid
osteoma):
a. Is a benign, fast-growing tumor that usually affects males (ages 10-20) b. Pain is
not relieved by salicylates in most cases c. Lesions are usually metaphyseal or diaphyseal
d. It usually exceeds 2 cm in diameter, and lacks the sclerotic rim around the soft tissue
center
e. Older lesions may show a mottled pattern of thin calcifications
Chapter 12: Bone Tumors
Introduction
Staging Techniques
Surgical Staging System
Radiology of Bone Tumors Bone Tumors
Cystic Lesions of Bone
Other Tumors & Cancers
Bone Tumors: A Quick Reference Chart Phases in
Cancer Development Benign vs. Malignant
TUMORS OF BONE, BONE MARROW
AND CARTILAGE
Introduction
Diagnosis of bone tumors is not the singular effort of the clinician, but rather
the work of a team consisting of attending surgeon, radiologist, and
pathologist who will evaluate the history, provide a comprehensive
examination, and order appropriate tests. Differential diagnosis on x-ray is
an interesting academic excercise, but actual diagnosis is more important.
Radiologic study has been compared to physical examination of the lesion in its
context. Laboratory adjunctive testing will provide clues to some conditions.
MRI and scans will help to delineate tumors. Radionuclide uptake procedures
can help to locate occult metastatic or synchronous lesions. Occasionally,
even angiography can be helpful.
Bone tumors are either primary or metastatic. Primary bone tumors can
be either benign or malignant. After a complete history and physical
examination, and lab studies, the management of bone tumors can be
divided into 3 phases: (1) radiographic staging, (2) diagnosis, and (3) treatment.
The radiographic staging is designed to provide information concerning the
diagnosis and the anatomic extent of the lesion. The definitive diagnosis always
requires biopsy. Only after these first 2 phases are complete can a rational
treatment plan be established and carried out.
In formulating a treatment plan, the. histogenetic type of tumor, local extent, and
possibility of distant disease must be considered. Clinical factors such as age, size,
occupation, life-style, and expectations also play a key role in the treatment
options available
Staging Techniques
The purpose of radiographic staging of a bone tumor is two-fold. The first is
to obtain information concerning a possible diagnosis, and the second is to
define the anatomical extent of the lesion
1. Staging techniques:
a. Plain radiograph demonstrates the bone involved, the region of the bone, the
extent and type of destruction, and the amount of reactive bone formed. It also
gives some information of benign vs malignant tumors (plain film x-rays are a
must in the staging of bone tumors)
b. Radioisotope scans (99m Tc MDP) can estimate the local
intramedullary extent of the tumor and screen for other skeletal areas of
involvement. It can give information about the biologic aggressiveness of the
tumor via its uptake. This study is also important in post-treatment
followup
c. CT: Greatly aids in the diagnosis and anatomic location. Using contrast with
CT aids in the identification of the major neurovascular structures as
well as the enhancement of well-vascularized lesions. CT is the best study for
evaluating cortical penetration and osseous detail, and valuable in the
assessment of matrix calcification or ossification. CT is the best technique for
detecting pulmonary metastasis, replacing whole lung tomography.
d. MRI: The best information is obtained when MRI and CT are Interpreted
together. MRI more accurately demonstrates the local intramedullary extent of
tumors than with gallium-67 citrate or any other method. MRI is the best
technique for demarcating the soft tissue component of bone tumor and its
relationship to neurovascular structures without utilization of contrast material
e. Arteriography: Since the advent of CT anti MRI with contrast, this technique
is not used much, except in a difficult anatomic location such as the shoulder
girdle or pelvis
f. Biopsy:, The purpose of biopsy is to obtain adequate tissue for accurate diagnosis
and grading while avoiding potential detrimental effects to the patient or
compromise of the definitive surgical procedure
Bone Tumors
1. Osteoma (hyperostosis, periosteal osteoma):
a. Is a benign, reactive, expansile tumor-like lesion that may be
pedunculated
b. It usually arises from intramembranous bones and may occur post-
traumatically
c. Some may represent osteochondromas whose cartilage cap has ossified
d. May occur subungually
e. These may be:
i. Ivory: compact
ii. Spongy: trabecular
iii. Mixed
f. Multiple osteomas may occur in Gardner's Syndrome
g. Excision is curative
2. Enostosis:
a. An uncommon, benign, intramedullary island of ossification
b. It may be reminiscent of osteoblastic metastatic visceral cancers c. These
are often asymptomatic, incidental radiologic findings
d. They may occur with Multiple Enchondromatosis and with keloid
formation
3. Osteold Osteoma:
a. Is a benign, osteoblastic, slow-growing lesion that may occur in cortical
or medullary bone
b. The soft tissue center is its NIDUS
c. Some (but not all) patients experience nocturnal, intermittent pain
that becomes a "boring" type of constant pain
d. It many cases (but not all), pain is relieved by salicylates (asprin)
e. X-rays often show a sclerotic rim of bone around the radiolucent nidus
f. Sometimes the nidus is sclerotic and not visable unless MRI or scans are
done
g. Pain may be referred to adjacent joints
h. Lesions adjacent to joints may erode the cartilage
i. Surgery consists of en-bloc resection to include the nidus, (x-rays should
be done of the specimen removed to make sure the nidus was removed)
j. Lesions usually are under 2 cm in diameter, affecting patients in the 10-
25 year age group (mostly males)
k. Associated pain relieved by apsrin
i. The "sunburst" appearance (on x-ray) of some early osteogenic sarcomas also
is not diagnostic, since it can also be seen in Ewing's sarcoma and in
hemangioma of bone
j. The serum alkaline phosphatase is quite elevated in active osteogenic
sarcoma and can be used as an index of recurrence or late metastasis
(i.e. if it rises from normal levels after tumor resection)
k. Secondary osteogenic sarcoma arises after age 40 from pre-existing conditions
such as Paget's disease of bone, fibrous dysplasia of bone, nonossifying
fibroma of bone, bone infarcts, solitary osteochondroma, and multiple
enchondromatosis
l. Radiographic diagnostic aids include angiography, MRI and Gallium scans
7 . Chondromas:
a. Are benign neoplasms
b. Solitary enchondromas appear as intramedullary (central) lucencies
derived from rests of epiphyseal cartilage
c. They may become symptomatic after local trauma, usually in adults
between 30 & 40 years of age
d. Pain without history of local trauma suggests malignant transformation
e. Multiple enchrondatosis (Ollier's disease) is a cartilage dysplasia that can
be quite deforming, and carries a high risk for malignant transformation
f. Multiple enchrondromatosis occur as part of Maffuci's (Kast-Maffuci)
syndrome (angiochondromatosis). Persons with this syndrome may show
areas of vitiligo, as well as pigmented lesions
g. Metachondromatosis is a dominantly inherited mime of multiple
enchondromatosis, but the lesions regress
h. Periosteal (juxtacortical/eccentric) chondroma is a rare lesion and is also
called ecchondroma
i. The lesions are sharply circumscribed on x-ray
j. Size and location determine surgical approach
9. Chondromyxoid Fibroma:
a. In general, is a rare tumor, but does affect the feet
b. Most frequently seen between the ages of 10 & 20 years
c. Foot lesions seem to be more frequent in the 30-40 age group
d. These are painful lesions that are lucent on x-rays, and which may
appear lobular or bubbly
e. Some lesions are quite aggressive
f. En-bloc resection or amputation may be necessary
10. Chondrosarcoma:
a. Is a malignant, potentially metastatic cartilage tumor that may show
myxoid and/or osseous elements
b. It Is the third most common malignant bone tumor
c. Most frequently seen between the ages of 40 & 60
d. Lesions may be primary or secondary, the latter arising in such pre-
existing lesions as Paget's disease of bone, osteochondroma (single or multiple),
Maffuci's (Kast-Maffuci) syndrome, Ollier's multiple enchondromatosis, and bone
cysts
e. The types range from the well differentiated through the clear cell and
mesenchymal (anaplastic) types
f. Patients demonstrate a painful limp and a mass may be palpable
g. On x-ray, the tumors may be lucent or. may demonstrate calcifications
h. Angiograms, scans, and MRI are helpful adjuncts
i. Amputation is the indicated treatment,- the level depending upon the
location and size of the tumor
2. Intraosseous Ganglion:
a. May give a similar x-ray appearance as a unicameral cyst
b. May be painful
c. A synovial cell lining is seen in the excised tissue (which is not seen in the
curettings from a simple bone cyst)
4. Metastatic Cancers:
a. Metastatic cancers from visceral organs may occur in the bones of the
feet
b. They may be osteolytic or osteogenic
c. These are rapidly developing lesions that may cause pain and pathologic
fractures
d. There are no specific signs or symptoms, but a history of treatment for a
malignant tumor (even years earlier) may provide a clue
NOTE* Of course, even with such a history, a suspect lesion may not be a
metastasis, it may be an independent and entirely coincidental lesion
NOTE* The most common bone tumor is metastatic tumors from other
sites, but this group does not constitute primary malignancy in bone
VI. "Paget's" sarcomas that arise in bone In the setting of Paget's disease of bone:
#1 osteogenic sarcoma
#2 chondrosarcoma
#3 fibrosarcoma
#4 malignant fibrous histiocytoma
NOTE* They may also arise in bone independent of Paget's disease of bone
KEY
1. Pleomorphism, hyperchromasia, abnormal mitoses, abnormal number of
mitoses, multinucleation, bizarre forms
2. The single most definitive determinant of malignancy
3. Cells develop 'immortality' in culture, and may show changes in
cytogenic patterns, medication resistance, cell morphology and behavior,
and subclones may emerge
4. Impingement on vital structures, size, metastasis to multiple sites, bleeding,
immunosuppression, unusual secretions that induce or inhibit other
functions of nontumor cells, necrotic changes, other metabolic changes
Chapter 13: Dermatology
The Skin
Dermatological Lesions
DERMATOLOGY
The Skin
The skin is one of the largest organs of the body exhibiting a wide range of
functions which include: mechanical protection, formation of a barrier to water
transfer, immune responses, thermoregulation, perception of the environment,
excretion, limitation of harmful radiation, and nutrition. The skin is composed
of two layers the epidermis and the dermis.
1. Epidermis:
a. This is composed of a stratified squamous epithelium containing cells that
become specialized for the production of keratin.
b. There are five strata in the thickness of the epidermis
i. Stratum basale
ii. Stratum spinosum
iii. Stratum granulosum
iv. Stratum lucidum
v. Stratum corneum
c. Specialized cells of the epidermis and their role:
i. Melanocytes are specialized cells for the production of melanin pigment and
are located in the basal cell layer. Melanin offers protection to UV-B radiation.
There are two forms of melanin in the human skin: Eumelanin (brown or black)
and Pheomelanin (red and yellow).
ii. Langerhans cells residing in the epidermis play an important role in skin
immunity.
iii. Merkel cells demonstrate dense core neurosecretory granules and are
thought to be part of the cutaneous sensory system.
2. The Dermas:
a. The dermis is composed primarily of connective tissue and consists of two
layers: a papillary layer and reticular layer
i. The papillary layer lies between epidermal rete ridges and contains many
nerve endings and capillaries
ii. The reticular dermis lies below the papillary dermis and above the
subcutaneous fat. It contains arterioles, venules, capillaries, larger nerves, and
adnexal structures
4. Special Structures:
a. Vater-Pacini Corpuscles: In the deep dermis are sensors for pressure
b. Glomus bodies: In the toe tips function in blood shunting as an aid to
temperature regulation. The shunt is a narrow branch of the arterioles that
connect directly to a venule, bypassing capillaries. This shunt is the Suquet-
Hoyer canal
Dermatological lesions
1. Primary lesions:
a. Macules: Circumscribed flat lesions measuring up to 1 cm. in diameter
b. Patch: Flat lesions measuring more than 1 cm. in diameter. They may form
as a consequence of coalescence of macules
c. Papules: Circumscribed, solid elevations measuring up to 1 cm. in diameter,
and elevated due to an intradermal infiltrate
d. Plaque: A circumscribed, solid elevation exceeding 1 cm. in diameter, but
usually not over 2 cm. in diameter
e. Nodules: Circumscribed, solid elevations exceeding 2 cm in diameter, but not
usually exceeding 3 cm. in diameter
f. Tumors: Circumscribed, solid elevations of larger size than nodules
2. Secondary lesions:
a. Scales: Products of imperfect and frequently rapid epidermal turnover,
occurring in "papulosquamous" diseases, with a great deal of exfoliation.
Examples include psoriasis, lichen planus, dermatophytosis
b. Excoriations: Scratch marks, usually seen where there is pruritus. These
show epidermal discontinuities.
c. Erosions: These are deep excoriations in the epidermis, but the dermis is not
breached. These leave no scars upon healing
d. Ulcers: Deep epidermal defects in which the dermis or deeper tissues are
exposed. These may leave scars when healed
e. Crusts: These are "scabs", i.e. aggregations of dried serum or blood with
other cellular debris
f. Fissures: Linear, deep epidermal cracks in the skin, penetrating to the
dermis and common in areas of dry skin
g. Scar: Also called "cicatrix", and resulting from inflammatory or traumatic
destruction of subepidermal connective tissue. Scarring is a normal reaction,
and that final portion of dermal healing called " fibrosis"
i. Hypertrophic scarring represents an abnormal response that will eventually
reduce itself
ii. Keloids represent abnormal scarring responses that continue beyond the
borders of the inciting injury, and progress to cause contractures
andinterference with function. They also may cause cosmetic problems, and
can be quite deforming. Treatment is a major problem. Before any elective
surgery is undertaken, a careful history and examination should elicit the risk
of keloid formation
h. Pustule: An elevated, circumscribed lesion containing pus, and arising from
infections of papules, vesicles or bullae.
i. Abcess: is a deep circumscribed collection of pus
ii. Furuncle (Boil): is an abcess originating in a hair follicle
iii. Carbuncle: an abcess involving several adjacent hair follicles, with
interconnecting sinuses
NOTE* Sinus tracts connect cavities, abcesses, etc. under the skin; fistulas
connect abcesses to the body surface
3. Vesiculobullous Disorders:
a. Viral: Herpes simplex, herpes zoster (shingles), Kaposi's varicelliform
eruption, varicella (chicken pox), variola (small pox), molluscum contagiosum,
hand-foot mouth disease (coxsackie Al 6 virus)
4. Dermatitis (Eczema):
a. Contact dermatitis:
i. Primary irritant: acids caustic chemicals, etc.
ii. Allergic: poison ivy, poison oak, shoe ingredients, sock dyes, etc.
b. Atopic dermatitis: Affected individuals show atopy, asthma, hayfever, and
other forms of allergic rhinitis, blood serum with >IgE. Three stages, infantile (2
months-2 yrs), childhood (4-10), and adult (12-25). It is usually symmetrical,
and is diagnosed by the area of involvement, and the familial history of allergy
not the rash itself (biopsy non-specific)
c. Dermatophytid (ID) reaction: Allergic reaction incited by a fungal infection.
There are other ID reactions as well, in other dermatoses
d. Dyshidrosis: Pompholyx of palms and soles (difficult to treat)
6. Painful tumors of the skin (ANGEL): Pain frequently occurs but not in all
cases
a. Angiolipoma: Vascularized tumors of adipose tissue
b. Neurilemoma: A benign tumor of Schwann cells (Schwannoma)
c. Glomus tumor: Arises from glomus body in the nail bed
d. Eccrine spiradenoma: An eccrine sweat duct tumor, paroxysmal spasms of
pain
e. Leiomyoma: A smooth muscle tumor (arrector pili muscle and vascular
smooth muscle pilar leiomyoma and angioleiomyoma, the latter also called
vascular leiomyoma)
8. Pre-malignant lesions:
a. Actinic keratoses: Solar keratoses, pre-malignant, can become squamous
cell Ca, usually scaly and telangiectatic and confined to the epidermis. TX: 5
FU, surgical excision
b. Xeroderma pigmentosum: Genetic disease with sensitivity to sun,
basal/squamous carcinomas can develop, as well as melanomas
c. Bloom's syndrome: Genetic defect involving skin with sun sensitivity, growth
retardation and sometimes immunodeficiencies. A high risk for leukemia and
lymphoma, as well as GI carcinomas
d. Ataxia telangiectasia: Genetic defect involving skin and nervous system.
Numerous ectasias appear, many affecting the lower extremities.
Sinopulmonary infections are common. High risk of leukemia and lymphoma
e. Porokeratosis of Mibelli: Papular lesion with central keratosis that expands
to form a circinate lesion with a furrow containing keratin. Some may precede
development of squamous carcinoma. Some are hereditary.
9. Malignant Lesions:
a. Basal Cell Carcinoma:
i. There are 5 clinical subtypes, the most common of which is the
noduloulcerative or "rodent ulcer" type
ii. These are essentially nonmetastastic (with the exception of a few situations)
iii. The Basal Cell Nevus Syndrome (Nevoid Basal Cell Epithelioma
Syndrome/Gorlin's Syndrome) demonstrates many abnormalities including
"ham-colored pits" on the palms and soles that are basal cell carcinomas. In
this syndrome, basal cell carcinomas are aggressive
iv. Bazex Syndrome demonstrates hyperkeratoses of the palms and soles
preceding and associated with visceral carcinomas (acrokeratosis neoplastica)
and basal cell carcinomas resembling tricoepitheliomas
v. Basal cell carcinomas also occur in the Linear Unilateral Basal Cell Nevus
vi. In general lesions should be excised in toto, in full depth and with a border
about 3 mm of clinically normal skin
vii. Contributors to the development of basal cell carcinoma include old
wounds, burns, ultraviolet irradiation, and x-irradiation
b. Squamous cell carcinoma:
i. The in-situ form is Bowen's disease which has not invaded the dermis, and
which is confined to the epidermis
ii. Marjolin's ulcer is a squamous cell carcinoma arising in a scar or in the
epithelium at the edge of a chronic ulceration
iii. Bowen's disease may appear as a reddish, irregular, sharply bordered lesion
with crusting or scaling. It may be present for many years. Invasive lesions may
be solid, ulcerated, or verrucous (verrucous carcinoma, epithelioma
cuniculatum). Some are more aggressive than others. Metastases may develop.
Lesions should be excised in full depth and with a clinically normal boarder of
3-5 mm. Contributors to the development of squamous cell carcinoma include
old wounds, burns, chronic ulcers or fistulas, x-irradiation, ultraviolet
irradiation, certain arsenical and other organic compounds
iv. Lesions that resemble squamous cell carcinoma:
• Keratoacanthoma: A lesion thought to arise from hair follicles, in some
cases it may occur as single or multiple lesions. Single lesions develop quickly,
grow and ulcerate. They may be very difficult to differentiate clinically and or
histologically from well differentiated squamous cell carcinoma. The central
area usually contains a keratinous plug. Treatment is excision in full
thickness. Use of retinoids is preferred by some for treatment. Some
investigators consider keratoacanthoma to be a very low grade squamous cell
carcinoma that is "self healing" if left alone. Some types heal with scarring if
left alone
• Pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia: A thickening of epidermis due to
hyperplasia of keratinocytes. It is clinically and histologically benign, and
occurs in chronic wounds such as the edges of ulcers or fistulas
c. Sweat gland (eccrine) carcinoma: There are many types. These are
uncommon, but can be slow-growing and aggressive. Metastases do occur in
many cases. Many are asymptomatic small papules or nodules that have been
present for many years and suddenly enlarge. Some ulcerate. Suspect lesions
should be excised in full depth and with 3-5 mm borders of normal skin
d. Sebaceous carcinoma: Extremely rare in the feet, these have no distinct
presenting symptoms or signs. Metastasis is a risk. These lesions, if primary in
the feet (not metastatic to the foot) will not be found in the plantar tissues
which lack pilosebaceous structures. These should be excised in full depth
with a 3-5 mm boarder of clinically normal skin
e. Merkel cell carcinoma: Also called trabecular carcinoma, these cancers are
quite uncommon, but have been reported in the foot. They are very aggressive
and metastatic. There is no distinct presentation. These lesions should be
excised in full depth and with a 3-5 mm boarder of clinically normal tissue.
Also called Primary Neuroendocrine Carcinoma of Skin (PNCS)
f. Melanoma: A highly malignant tumor of melanocytes showing strong
association with ultraviolet irradiation of high intensity. Lighter skinned
persons are more apt to develop melanomas in sun-exposed areas. The types
are:
i. Lentigo maligna melanoma: Almost never occurs in the foot and is most
common on the face. They are the least aggressive (in-situ form=lentigo
maligna)
ii. Superficial spreading (pagetoid) melanoma: Most common type in all body
areas. Moderately aggressive. Histologically can resemble Paget's disease of the
breast (hence its name)
iii. Nodular melanoma: Arises anywhere in the body. Most aggressive and
malignant
iv. Acral melanoma: Occurs on the extremities and is the most common type
seen in the feet of black and oriental patients. Aggressive type
NOTE* Some consider the nodular type to represent a late phase of all the
other types, i.e. the "vertical growth phase" as compared to the earlier "radial
growth phase". Also, the true nodular type may represent a very aggressive
form with a very short radial growth phase
g. Amelanotic melanoma: Not different from other melanomas except for the
lack of visible pigment. Therefore, it is extremely dangerous because it is often
misdiagnosed and therefore is deeply invasive and thick by the time of
diagnosis, and probably has metastasized to the lymph nodes and viscera
h. Subungual melanoma: This must be confirmed with biopsy. The clues to this
lesion are
i. Pigmented lesion of recent origin with no history of local trauma to cause a
hematoma
ii. Pigmented lesion that does not move distally as the nail grows
iii. Sudden development of melonychia striata (pigmented stripe in the nail)
iv. Chronic non-pigmented lesion that does not respond to treatments (based
on clinical impression) within a reasonable period
v. Dusky, irregular pigmentation in eponychial tissue (Hutchinson's sign)
h. Biopsy:
i. Ideally, should be excisional including full depth to the subcutaneous fat
ii. Incisional biopsy from one or more edges, including clinically normal-
appearing skin, and always in full depth
iii. Incisional biopsy of nodular portion of lesion (if present) as well as edge(s),
in full depth
5. Referred pain: particularly common in the knee due to hip and prostate
disease and in the shoulder due to some abdominal conditions, esophageal
conditions, cardiac conditions, neurologic conditions neurological conditions
and pulmonary conditions
The Arthropathies
1. Anklosing Spondylitis (Marie Strumpell Disease): a chronic condition of
the spine (bamboo spine) and sacro-iliac joints in which early inflammatory
changes are followed by progressive restriction of spinal movement, with
radiological calcification of spinal ligaments (seronegative disorder).
a. Signs: chest expansion reduced (< 5cm), limited spinal movements, tender
bony points (heel)
b. Symptoms: gradual onset of low backache and/or pain in buttocks
c. X-ray: shows bamboo spine, and "whiskering" of ischial tuberosities
d. Labs: ESR >, mild anemia, (-) latex fixation, synovial fluid shows
inflammatory/neutrophils
e. Tx: Exercises, NSAIDS
2. Arthrogryphosis Multiplex Congenita: a rare congenital disorder
characterized by stiff, deformed joints and muscle wasting.
a. Clinical features: painless deformities (equinovarus feet, flexion deformities
of knees), stiff joints
b. Tx: correction of deformities, surgical and nonsurgical
NOTE* Heberden's nodes occur over the distal ipj's, and Bouchar’ s nodes occur
over the proximal ipj's (Bouchard's nodes are associated with gastric dilatation)
b. Joints affected: small joints of the hands and feet (75%) especially the
m.p.j.'s, and the p.i.p.j's, usually bilateral and symmetrical. Also calcaneus
affecting the posterior-superior surface near the achilles insertion (forms a
posterior calcaneal recess) with non-well demarcated heel spur. Larger,
proximal joints are frequently involved.
c. Symptoms: insidious onset of joint pains and stiffness, generalized morning
stiffness, accompanied by general ill health, fatigue and weight loss which can
precede joint symptoms by a few months.
d. Signs: swollen/tender joints with limited ROM due to effusion or synovial
thickening, muscle wasting around the affected joints
e. Special features: ulnar deviation hands, boutonniere deformity of p.i.p.j.,
baker's cyst of knees, atlanto-axial subluxation of cervical spine, crico-
arytenoid joint involvement causeshoarseness/dyspnea/dysphasia/bronchitis
f. Course: either episodic or persistent, episodic has average patient having 3
attacks of arthritis once every 2 years each lasting 6 months; persistent has
chronic arthritis with partial remissions and exacerbations, joints tend to
become burnt out
g. Non-articular manifestations:
i. Periarticular soft tissues- nodules (Haygarth's nodes at affected joints),
tenosynovitis, bursitis, synovial cysts, muscle wasting, ligamentous laxity
ii. Skin- tight like scleroderma, leg ulcers
iii. Eyes- Sjogren's syndrome
iv. Heart- pericarditis, granulomatous lesions in myocardium
v. Nerve- carpal tunnel syndrome/tarsal tunnel syndrome
vi. Blood- anemia, Felty's syndrome (splenomegaly/leukopenia)
h. X-ray: early changes include periarticular osteoporosis, joint space widening;
later changes include uniform joint space narrowing thinning of the cortices
synovial erosions, pseudocysts that erode through the cortex (OA cysts have a
sclerotic boarder), subluxations and deviations joint fusions and widespread
osteoporosis
i. Labs: anemia, >ESR, latex fixation (+) 80%, ANA (+), RA (+), synovial fluid
changes (see chart), blood protein (plasma fibrinogen and globin increased;
decreased total protein)
j. Tx: NSAIDS, rest modalities, intraarticular steroid injections, synovectomy,
gold injections (Myocrisin) @ 10, 20, 30, 40 mg I.M. at weekly intervals then 50
mg. weekly up to 1 g., then a maintenance dose of 50 mg. monthly if results
good (must check WBC's)
21. Septic Arthritis: Infection of a joint with pyogenic bacteria. Most common
organism is Staph aureus (50%). Can occur in any age group but more
frequent in kids and geriatrics (should be considered when examining any
monarticular erythematous, hot, swollen joint)
NOTE* The WBC's in joint aspirate in a septic joint is usually higher then
100,000, however, in gonococcal arthritis the WBC's is usually below 50,000
g. Tx: antibiotics, rest, aspirations (?? damage to the joint), open debridement
(permits lysing of adhesions and debridement of necrotic bone or soft tissue
present, arthrotomy performed in patients with advancing osteomyelitis
2. Serologic tests:
a. Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate: nonspecific, reflects the presence of
tissue injury and inflammation, as a screening test may be overrated
b. C-reactive protein (CRP): nonspecific test for inflammation, a most
sensitive indicator of rheumatic fever
c. Rheumatoid factor: are a heterogenous group of antiglobulin antibodies
primarily found in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The antibodies react to
specific antigenic determinants on the crystallizable fragment of human IgG.
RF has been found among several classes of immunoglobulins, including IgM,
IgA, IgG, and IgE
d. Latex fixation: are also used to detect RF, with IgG used as the antigen
e. Antinuclear antibodies (ANA): are a heterogenous group of antibodies
detecting many nuclear constituents; including deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA),
deoxynucleoprotein (DNP), histone, and ribonucleicacid (RNA). The ANA
antibodies were 1st noted in the sera of patients with SLE. Only a test reactive
for double- stranded DNA is diagnostic for SLE
f. Histocompatibility antigens (HLA-B27): is associated with the seronegative
diseases
g. VDRL: screening test for syphilis (but not specific for it)
h. ASO titer: done with CRP where Rheumatic fever is suspected
i. LE prep: rarely done today because of the accuracy of the ANA
4. Uric Acid: May be normal during acute gouty attacks 5. Test for Lyme
disease (Lyme titer)
RESULTS: The characteristics of synovial fluid depend upon the presence or absence of
inflammation of synovium. Non-inflammatory fluid is clear, viscous, fails to clot on standing,
and contains less than 1000 cells per c.mm., predominantly mononuclears. Inflammatory fluid
is non-viscous, may clot, and contains an increased number of white blood-cells. These
changes may be slight or gross, depending on the severity of the inflammatory process. Fluid
with a high whitecell count is turbid and this does not necessarily mean that it is septic. The
characteristics of inflammatory and non-inflammatory fluid are summarized in the following
table. Synovial fluid characteristics in individual arthropathies are shown with other laboratory
features of the conditions.
NON-INFLAMMATORY INFLAMMATORY
Crystals No No No Yes
IDENTIFICATION OF CRYSTALS. Uric acid crystals are needle-shaped and strongly negatively
birefringent (blue across the plane of the first-order red compensator); pyrophosphate crystals
have square ends and are weakly positively birefringent (blue along the plane of the
compensator).
SPECIAL TESTS
1. Complement levels are low in rheumatoid arthritis and high in Reiter's disease.
2. Latex tests parallel serum titres in patients with rheumatoid arthritis; there is a high
incidence of false positives in other conditions and the test has little diagnostic value.
Charcot Foot
1. Disorders producing a Charcot joint: Diabetes mellitus (most common
cause), tabes dorsalis, leprosy, syringomyelia, spina bifida, meningomyelcoele,
congenital insensitivity to pain, chronic alcoholism, spinal cord injury and
compression (all have decrease in pain sensation in the presence of
uninterrupted physical activity in common)
3. Pathogenesis:
a. Sensory-motor neuropathy: Loss of protective sensation, absent DTR's,
diminished vibratory sense, muscle weakness, ankle equinus b. Autonomic
neuropathy: Sympathetic denervation loss of vasomotor control, increased
peripheral blood flow, increased artiovenous shunting, increased bone blood
flow, hyperemia
c. Minor trauma: Repetitive moderate stress, repetitive impulse loading,
trabecular microfractures, inadequately protected fractures and sprains,
surgery
d. Other factors: Metabolic abnormalities which weaken bone, renal
transplantation, immunosuppressive treatment, steroid-induced osteoporosis,
decreased cartilage growth activity, glycosylation of collagen
4. Diagnosis:
a. Medical history, clinical manifestation, and radiologic findings
b. Technium and Gallium scans, MRI (low signal Intensity in T, and T2-
weighted images within the bone marrow space adjacent to the involved
joint), and bone biopsy and cultures in equivocal cases
5. Treatment: Based on the acuteness of symptoms, the anatomic pattern of
bone and joint destruction, the degree of involvement (deformity, fractures
instability, etc.) and the presence of infection a. Immobilization: At least 3
months of non-weight-bearing cast immobilization prior to resumption of
partial weight-bearing (always check the asymptmatic limb during this time)
b. Orthoses and shoes: A patella tendonbearing brace with molded shoes to
decrease the load on the foot
c. Surgery: Ostectomy, arthrodesis
i. Criteria for surgery: Instability, deformity, recurrent ulceration, refractory to
conservative treatment, must be quiescent, circulation intact, no active
infection, medically stable
Chapter 15: Peripheral Vascular
Disease
Patient Evaluation
The Vascular Diseases
PERIPHERAL VASCULAR DISEASE
Patient Evaluation
1. Vascular History: the chief complaint and history of the present illness often
preclude the immediate diagnosis of vascular disease. Some clues to follow:
a. Attempt to establish time relationships accurately (date of onset, etc.)
b. Attempt to separate symptoms that appear to be superficially similar
c. Try to identify the exact location of the symptom
d. Characterize the symptom as to type and severity
e. Delineate factors that aggravate or alleviate symptoms
f. Determine the effect of self-treatment or treatment by other physicians
g. Determine the progression/rate of symptoms
h. Evaluate the amount of disability imposed by the symptoms
i. Analyze any associated conditions or complaints
j. Document any previous studies and their results
5. Color and Temperature Changes: The color of the skin is directly proportional
to the degree of perfusion of arterial blood and oxygen saturation of
hemoglobin in the subpapillary venous plexus.
a. Pallor associated with sudden arterial occlusion, results from the absence of
arterial perfusion
b. Cyanosis occurs with decreased arterial perfusion of chronic arterial
insufficiency
c. Red/warm skin of erythromelalgia is the vasodilatory effect of the disease
d. Petechiae or pinpoint areas of cutaneous bleeding indicate capillary
fragility, which may arise in a number of conditions
e. Purpura, bluish/black areas of subcutaneous bleeding is the result of clotting
abnormalities or other diseases (see section Dermatology)
f. Telangectasias are visible dilations of capillaries which can result from
arterial or venous insufficiency
g. A drop in skin temperature of 6-8 degrees may indicate ischemia
6. Trophic Changes and Hair Growth: The nutritional changes of the skin and
appendages is directly affected by cutaneous circulation. Alterations in
arterial- flow can cause thickening, brittleness, longitudinal ridging and
slow growth of the nails. This can be confused with onychomycoses. The
disappearance of hair on the foot can be indicative of reduced arterial flow.
7. Past Medical History: Ten risk factors have been associated with
arteriosclerosis- chronic cigarette smoking, hypertension, diabetes mellitus,
hypercholesterolemia, hyperlipidemia, obesity, stress, lack of exercise, age, and
genetics.
a. Family history: Of any of the above
b. Medications/allergies
c. Medical care
d. Social factors
e. Past medical history: Important to assess the healing ability. Factors that reduce
the healing potential are anemia, alcoholism, uncontrolled diabetes,
neuropathy, rheumatoid arthritis, SLE, scleroderma, severe pulmonary disease,
polycythemia, sickle cell disease, treatment with antineoplastic drugs,
radiation therapy, high doses of prednisone, dialysis, and poor nutrition.
Note* Adequate blood flow does assure adequate healing potential, but
inadequate blood flow will contribute to poor healing
10. Palpation of Peripheral Pulses: Peripheral pulses that are evaluated are
the radial, femoral, popliteal, posterior tibial, anterior tibial (dorsalis pedis),
and peroneal. These pulses should be graded according to rhythm,
symmetry, and amplitude.
a. Factors that reduce pulse amplitude: CHF, rapid atrial fibrillation,
numerous premature contractions, paroxymal tachycardia, aortic stenosis,
shock, and myocarditis.
Also included are: coarctation of the aorta, Leriche's syndrome, dissecting
aneurysm of the aorta, tumors of the abdominal cavity compressing
arteries, and edema overlying the artery.
Also included are: Vasospasm (Raynaud's disease, acrocyanosis, livedo
reticularis, later stages of frostbite, causalgia, post-traumatic vasomotor
disorders, disuse atrophy), chronic occlusive arterial disorders affecting the
large arteries, acute occlusion of large arteries, organic occlusion of small
arteries, congenital/acquired A-V fistula, Monckeberg's sclerosis, and trauma
to large arteries
b. Factors that increase pulse amplitude: Hyperthyroidism, hypertension,
aortic insufficiency, marked anemia, fever, physical exertion, and
erythromelalgia.
Also included are: lumbar sympathectomy, early stage of causalgia, Paget's
disease of Bone.
Also, Quincke's pulse is seen in the toenails in cases of aortic regurgitation,
patent ductus arteriosis, very slow heart rate with increased central pressure,
extreme increase in venous return and extreme dilatation of the small arteries
and arterioles. In cases of coarctation of the aorta, Quincke's capillary
pulsations are seen in the fingernails (dueto the increased pressure above the
coartation) but not in the toenails (due to the decreased pressure below the
coarctation)
Note* Please refer to Chapter 33: Anatomy, for description of the complete
circulation of the foot, however, some important arterial anatomic facts are
presented here:
1. The posterior tibial is the largest of the three pedal arteries and bears major
responsibility for perfusing all the plantar intrinsic muscles.
2. The dorsalis pedis is second in importance and is responsible for perfusing
the dorsum of the foot.
3. Ten percent of the normal population does not have a dorsalis pedis
artery, so the perforating peroneal can take its place.
4. Lack of pedal pulses may suggest anatomic variation rather than PVD, if no
other suggestions of vascular insufficiency are present
Note* When the PT is absent the DP can function as primary artery of the foot. The
entire foot can even be perfused by one pedal artery since they all interconnect
(an important concept in vascular reconstruction). Each toe has 4 digital
arteries, with the plantar arteries being larger than the dorsal ones.
The lateral plantar digital artery of the hallux is larger than the medial
plantar digital artery of the hallux.
The medial plantar digital artery of the lesser toes is larger than their lateral
plantar diqital artery.
Vascular anatomy to foot showing alternate circulation with absent
DP artery
Clinics in Podiatric Medicine and Surgery: Peripheral Vascular Disease, January 1992, Volume 9:1, Saunders,
Philadelphia, with permission
Note* If there is doubt about whether the ABI is falsely elevated, the modified
Carter exercise test can be used to differentiate. Additionally, listen to the
sounds of the artery, it should be either bi or triphasic. Any abnormal
swishing sound would indicate a proximal obstruction.
b. Segmental Pressures- taken at the upper thigh, lower thigh, upper calf,
and ankle. The ABI is noted.
The criteria for this test are based on the 1-10-20-30 Rule of Thumb.
Both are toxic and can cause renal failure, hypotension, direct
myocardial depression, pulmonary edema, bronchospasm, convulsions
and even stroke
13. MRI: This study is now being done to assess distal runoff in the foot
when angiography is questionable or to double check angiography when
attempting to save a limb.
The Vascular Diseases
1. Treatment of Chronic Arterial Occlusive Disease: Patients with chronic lower
extremity ischemia should be divided into those with claudication and
those with limb-threatening ischemia.
a. Claudicators: Treatment can consist of conservative management
including exercise, elimination of tobacco/caffeine etc., control of medical
conditions. Pharmacological management includes Trental (pentoxifylline)
which alters blood flow characteristics by "softening" the RBC.
b. Limb Threatening Ischemia: Gangrene, rest pain, or tissue loss is an
indication for revascularization. Options for revascularization include
endarterectomy, balloon angioplasty, atherectomy, and bypass grafting (in-
situ autologous vein or prosthetic material-Gortex).
NOTE* In diabetics the most common site of occlusion is just above the trifurcation in
the leg.
Femoral popliteal and popliteal-peroneal bypasses are most common procedures
in these individuals.
3. Diabetes and PVD: Diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death in the
United States. Vascular complications of diabetes are accelerated by
hypertension, cigarette smoking, hypercholesteremia, hyperglycemia, the
duration of diabetes, and the degree of blood sugar control.
a. Pathogenesis: The three most important factors that influence the vascular
complications of diabetes are- the duration of diabetes after puberty, elevated
blood sugar levels, and blood pressure. Diabetic microangiopathy is a result of
metabolic abnormalities caused by an absolute or relative insulin deficiency.
The development of neuropathy is a critical factor in the rapid progression
of peripheral arterial disease with the concurrent development of autonomic
denervation.
Note* The use of Beta blockers for the treatment of hypertension is contraindicated in
the diabetic because of the unopposed alpha action. Calcium channel blockers or
ACE inhibitors are the recommended drugs for diabetics.
c. Signs end Symptoms: Pain is the most common symptom. The three
signs are- blenching of the foot upon elevation, delayed venous filling time
after elevation, end rubor on dependency. Other signs end symptoms ere
pulseless feet, subcutaneous fat tissue atrophy, shiny skin, absent hair
growth on the lower extremities, and thickened nails.
d. Treatment: Exercise and diet, cholesterol control, cessation of cigarette
smoking, daily aspirin (?) (suppress prostaglandin production in
platelets/suppresses platelet aggregation), blood sugar control, blood
pressure control, drugs (PV dilators).
Note* Treatment for venous stasis ulceration is almost always conservative, 'with
compression therapy with graduated elastic compression stockings (30-40 mm
Hg), Unna Boot with DuoDERM hydroactive dressings etc., or the "Oregon Protocol".
4. Vasospastic Disorders:
a. Raynaud's Vasospasticity: Divided into Raynauds phenomenon, syndrome
and disease. Phenomenon is the clinical presentation of the discoloration
sequence of pallor, cyanosis, end rubor accompanied by paresthesias.
Syndrome is the bilateral end symmetric recurrence of the phenomenon
that persists for longer periods of time with each incident, and is
associated with an underlying collagen or autoimmune disorder, or with
organic arterial disease. Disease is the state of a consistent recurrence of
discoloration with associated paresthesias upon exposure to cold or
emotional crisis that has not been identified to coexist with any other
disorder 2 to 3 years after the original presentation. All of these forms of
vasospesticity ere precipitated by exposure to cold water, ice, cold ambient
temperature, cold humid air, or a chilly wind.
b. Acrocyanosis: A condition characterized by persistent uniform cyanosis of
the feet and toes end associated plantar hyperhidrosis. Unlike Raynaud's,
the vesospesticity extends proximally beyond the digits.
c. Livedo Reticularis: A condition involving the arterioles of the skin
presenting with livid discoloration in a reticular pattern (mottled or lacelike
red-blue discoloration). Has an annular form, livedo annularis, and a grape-
like form, livedo annularis racemosa
d. Medications: The traditional vasodilators, isoxsuprine, pepavarine, niacin
are used in Raynaud's cases. Nitroglycerine 2% ointment applied in a 0.75
inch strip on the dorsum of the foot Q 5 hours has been beneficial when
oral vasodilators have failed. Calcium channel blockers (nifedipine end
diltiezem) have recently been studied for these disorders.
5. Lymphatic Diseases: Can be either primary or secondary lymphedema a.
Primary lymphedema: The classic indication of primary lymphedema is soft
tissue swelling as a result of lymph accumulation. This swelling arises without
cause and may not present bilaterally. It is associated with aplasia, hypoplasia,
or hyperplasia of the lymphatic channels, trunks, or nodes.
i. Milroy's Disease: Congenital/hereditary form of lymphedema, with the edema
noted at birth to be firm but pitting, chronic, permanent, and confined to the
lower extremity.
ii. Congenital Lymphedema: Congenital although no family history is
determinable, more prevalent than Milroy's disease, edema may be present in
the lower or upper extremities.
iii. Lymphedema Praecox: Hereditary, noncongenital manifesting itself in early
life (ages 9-25), seen predominantly in girls, a rapid onset involving one
foot and ankle, progresses to a nonpitting form. Treatment is with an
intermittent compression pump and compression stockings.
b. Secondary Lymphedema: Results from acute, repetitive or chronic
lymphangitis secondary to a known cause. The inflammation may be due to
direct trauma, foreign bodies, infection, or as a complication of venous
insufficiency with associated venous hypertension. It also may result as an
extention of acute cellulitis or deep thrombophlebitis.
i. Traumatic Lymphedema: From direct impact or lacerating injury to the large
pre- and post nodal collecting lymphatics, nodes, and major trunks.
ii. Infectious Lymphedema: From bacterial or filarial infections
iii. Neoplastic and Foreign Body Lymphedema
iv. Postphlebitic Lymphedema
v. Neuroplegic Lymphedema
c. Direct Lymphangiography: The gold standard of lymphatic system imaging
Chapter 16: Internal &
External,
Fixation
Objectives of Fixation Devices
Requirements of Implant Materials
Principles Affecting Internal Fixation
Internal Fixation Devices
AO Objectives
AO Principles
AO Technique
Jumping Screws
Other Techniques
Complications of Fixation Devices
External Fixation
Large Bone External Fixation (Ilizarov Technique)
Small Bone External Fixation of the Foot
INTERNAL & EXTERNAL FIXATION
Objectives of Fixation Devices
1. Eliminate motion at a fracture or osteotomy site.
2. Restore the normal anatomical alignment of the fractured site or the
desired position of an osteotomized segment.
3. Assist in the physiological mechanism of bone healing.
4. Permit early mobilization of the area affected by the fracture or osteotomy.
6. Staples: Various 2 prong and 4 prong staples are available and are
supplied with templates to assure proper implantation. Available in surgical
steel and titanium.
a. Their application is limited and are best suited for bones with high
cancellous/cortical ratios.
b. When used primarily in diaphyseal bone there is a propensity for the
cortical bone around the staple legs to become communited as the staple
is inserted, resulting in compromised fixation.
c. Advantages are:
i. Easily removable
ii. Can be a permanent implant
iii. Provides fixation on one plane developing static compression across
the fracture fragment site.
d. Disadvantages are:
i. Should not be used in incomplete fractures independently, unless
secondary devices or complete non-weight bearing are utilized.
ii. Staples can dislodge
iii. Staples can fatigue fracture
e. Have been used for calcaneal osteotomies, triple arthrodesis, tib-fib
syndesmosis diathesis, medial and lateral malleolar fractures (with malleolar
screw), and epiphyseal plate injuries.
ii. Thread diameter is the maximal diameter including the screw threads (Fig.
1).
iii. Screw pitch is the distance between two successive threads (fig. 3).
iv. The lead is the distance a screw advances when turned one complete
revolution.
b. Other screw parts are:
i. Screw head: either cruciform or hexagon
ii. Screw land: the undersurface of the screw head
iii. Screw tip: either round, pointed, or fluted
Al 4.0 mm Partially threaded cancellous screw 1.75 mm pitch
Reprinted from Ruch JA, Vito GR Corey SV (eds); Podiatry Institute Internal Fixation Workbook. 8th ed.,
Podiatry Institute Publishing, Tucker, Georgia, 1992, with permission
iv. Screw shank: the distance between the land and the start of the screw
runout (Fig. 4)
v. Screw runnout: the distance from the end of the shank to the first thread (
Fig. 5).
vi. Screw thread: either assymmetric (buttress) or symmetric (Fig. 6)
Note* If one screw is used for a base wedge osteotomy with an intact cortical
hinge, the angle of insertion of the screw should bisect the perpendiculars of
the long axis of the osteotomy and the long axis of the bone. If the screw is
placed at an angle greater than this, the cortical hinge will disrupt.
vii. Sufficient screw fixation can usually be obtained with oblique and spiral
fracture patterns only when the fracture line is at least twice as long as the
bone's diameter.
viii. Short oblique or transverse fractures, therefore need an interfragmentary
lag screw and neutralization plate.
d. Cancellous Screws: (see figure 7)
i. Come either fully or partially threaded
ii. Cancellous screw thread height is greater than that of cortical. This allows
for greater purchase in the softer metaphyseal and epiphyseal bone for which
they were designed.
iii. Screw head fixation can be augmented in osteoporotic bone with a washer.
iv. If the threads of a cancellous screw are left in a position crossing the
interface between two fragments, no compression will be achieved, as the lag
affect that is desired from this screw will be negated. It then acts as a cortical
screw.
v. Cancellous screws 6.5 mm in diameter are used in ankle and subtalar
arthrodeses.
vi. Lisfranc's injuries are amenable to 4.0 mm cancellous screws.
vii. Fractures of the talus and calcaneus are frequently stabilized with
cancellous screws (in these locations are generally augmented with washers or
small plates).
e. Washers:
i. Generally used in osteoporotic bone.
ii. Used with cancellous screw for increasing the purchase power on the near
fracture cortex.
iii. Can be used with screws to provide increased surface area as well as barbs
for the reattachment of ligaments or transferred tendon insertions.
f. Malleolar Screws:
i. Are self-tapping and possess a sharp pointed tip that was designed to allow
insertion without predrilling.
ii. Due to their large size, 4.0 cancellous screws have replaced them.
g. Cannulated screws: The complications involving placement of screws in
complicated fractures can be greatly minimized with this type of screw.
i. This type of screw can be inserted over a guidewire through its entire length,
after the guidewire is properly placed in the bone. This minimizes bony trauma.
ii. When a cannulated screw is to be used, the K -wire (guidewire) serves a dual
purpose of maintaining reduction and providing a guide for screw placement.
h. Herbert Screw:
i. Originally designed for osteochondral fractures (also used for scaphoid
fractures of the hand), due to the absence of a screw head.
ii. Characterized by the presence of threads with different pitches and leads on
both its proximal and distal ends. The distal threads feature a tighter pitch and
smaller lead and are separated from the proximal ones by an intervening
smooth shank. This allows for interfragmentary compression.
i. Reese Arthrodesis Screw: Right/lefthanded threaded screws which are used
for digital fusions.
Note* A screw can be used alone for internal fixation whenever the fracture or
osteotomy is at least twice as long as the diameter of the bone at the level of
the fracture or osteotomy.
A screw inserted at right angles to the fracture or osteotomy plane gives the
best interfragmental compression, but provides no stability under axial
loading. A screw inserted at right angles to the long axis of the bone gives the
best resistance to axial loading, but decreases the interfragmental
compression. Based on the previous 3 principles, a cortical lag screw is
inserted so that it bisects the angle formed by the perpendicular to the fracture
plane and the perpendicular to the long axis of the bone
9. Intermedullary Fixation (Nails): These are long pieces of metal of various
available diameters which are placed in the medullary canal of a
fractured/osteotomized long bone to stabilize the site.
a. They are:
i. Rush pins
ii. K-wires
ii. Inyo nails (tapered V-shaped stainless device used for fractures of the distal
fibula)
b. Are wedged into the medullary canal after the canal is reamed to a diameter
slightly smaller than the nail to be used, and then removed after healing is
completed.
c. Of all the internal fixation devices used, this one delays bone healing the
most by damaging the medullary blood vessels when it is inserted.
d. The other major drawback it is limited control of the rotational forces of the
fracture fragment.
10. Plate Fixation: Are temporary fixation devices which serve a particular
function and then are removed. Plates can function in several fashions,
depending upon how they are applied and the resulting bone-plate construct
geometry. These functions include rigid fixation through interfragmentary
compression, buttressing, and neutralization.
Depending upon the mechanical circumstances, a plate may provide more than
one of these functions.
a. The following plates are utilized:
i. Static Compression Plates: Tension is applied to the implant and
compression is achieved at the fracture interface.
ii. Dynamic Compression Plates: Beyond the compression of the fracture
achieved through static compression, the implant is subjected to a
physiologic load which generates additional compression at the fracture
plane
iii. Neutralization Plates: Initially a shaft fracture may be fixated by
interfragmental compression with a lag screw. A plate is then applied to
neutralize or absorb-any disruptive forces; torsional, shear, or bending to
which the bone and osteosynthesis may be subjected
iv. Anti-Glide Plates: Are used as neutralization plates but placed on the
posterior aspect of the fibula.
v. Buttress Plates: Are used to maintain separation of bone during bone
grafting procedures to gain or maintain length. Are generally used to resist
the tendency of metaphyseal fracture fragments to displace when subjected
to compressive forces. Specifically designed plates by the AO group are
spoon and cloverleaf plates for the distal tibia, and the malleable H or
double-H plates for the calcaneus.
b. Pre-stressing the plate results in static interfragmentary compression,
and is performed by contouring the plate so that its center sits away from
the bone to which it is applied. The screws securing the plate ends are
inserted and tightened first (pre-stressing the plate in tension) so that as
sequential screws are applied (progressively closer to the center) axial
compression is developed along the underlying bone. In addition,
eccentrically plated screws may be inserted (as a compression device) for
interfragmentary compression.
c. Plates also function to protect lag screw fixation. Oblique or spiral fracture
of the metatarsals or the distal fibula can be stabilized with
interfragmentary lag screws. The addition of a plate then serves to neutralize
the bending, torsional, and shear forces that would otherwise jeopardize the
fixation obtained by lag screws alone.
d. The AO group has developed 1 /3 and 1 /4 tubular plates which are
easily contoured.
e. The advantages of plates are:
i. Allows for complete reduction of fracture fragments and proper
anatomical alignment.
ii. Can be implanted permanently or removed at a later date.
iii. Creates rigid fixation with stabilization and/or dynamic compression
across the fracture site.
f. The disadvantages are:
i. Significant amount of surgical dissection for implantation of plate and
screws.
ii. High degree of difficulty with irregular or multifragmented bone
fractures.
iii. Technical difficulty for implantation, potential fatigue fracture of bone
plate with motion.
iv. Should be applied to the tension side of the fracture to avoid
breaking the bone plate.
iv. Results in a degree of bone necrosis beneath the plate.
NOTE* Specific guidelines for their use have been outlined by Kenzora and
Edwards and associates in The Foot and Ankle. They recommended the use of
various configurations of Hoffman's external fixators in order to:
a. Stabilize open fracture-dislocations
b. Maintain length where bone is lost or extensively comminuted
c. Prevent soft tissue contractures
d. Control joint position for delayed ankle arthrodesis
e. Provide easy access for bone and soft tissue reconstruction
AO Objectives
1. Atraumatic operative technique
2. Accurate anatomical reduction
3. Rigid internal compression fixation 4. Avoidance of soft tissue damage
5. The AO tenet: "Life is movement, movement is life".
AO Principles
1. Intrinsic Factors Affecting Stable Fracture Reduction:
a. Stable fractures:
i. Are transverse fractures
b. Unstable fractures:
i. Long oblique fractures
ii. Comminuted fractures
iii. Spiral fractures
c. Potentially stable fractures:
i. Short oblique
AO Technique
1. Instrumentation:
i. Thread hole drill bit: (1.1, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.2 mm)
ii. Glide hole drill bit: (1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 2.7, 3.5, 4.5 mm)
iii. Countersink: (Mini Fragment Set 1.1 and 2.0 mm tip) (Small Fragment
Set 2.0 mm tip) (Large Fragment Set 3.2 and 4.5 mm tip)
iv. Depth gauge: (Mini/Small/Large)
v. Tap: (1.5, 2.0, 2.7, 3.5 mm @ 1.25 pitch) (3.5 mm @ 1.75 pitch) (4.5 and
6.5 mm)
vi. Screw Driver: (Cruciform/Hexagon head)
v. Drill and Tap Sleeve: (protection for the soft tissue/ reduces the need for
excessive retraction when the drill bit Is aimed obliquely at the bone/the
serrated end anchors well to cortical bone and prevents slippage of the drill
bit)
2. Sequence For Screw Insertion:
a. 1.5 mm Cortical Screw
i. Pre-drill (0.035 K-wire= 0.9 mm)
ii. Thread Hole (1.1 mm)
iii. Countersink (Mini)
iv. Overdrill near cortex (1.5 mm)
v. Depth gauge (Mini)
vi. Tap (1.5 mm)
vii. Screw Placement
b. 2.0 Cortical Screw
i. Pre-drill (0.045 K-wire= 1.1 mm)
ii. Thread Hole (1.5 mm)
iii. Countersink (Mini)
iv. Overdrill near cortex (2.0 mm)
v. Depth gauge (Mini)
vi. Tap (2.0 mm)
vii. Screw Placement
c. 2.7 Cortical Screw
i. Pre-drill (0.062 K-wire= 1.6 mm)
ii. Thread Hole (2.0 mm)
iii. Countersink (Small)
iv. Overdrill (2.7 mm)
v. Depth Gauge (Small)
vi. Tap (2.7 mm)
vii. Screw Placement
d. 3.5 Cortical Screw
i. Pre-drill (0.062 K-wire= 1.6 mm)
ii. Thread Hole (2.5 mm)
iii. Countersink (Small)
iv. Overdrill (3.5 mm)
v. Depth Gauge (Small)
vi. Tap (3.5 mm)
vii. Screw Placement
e. 3.5 mm Cancellous Screw
i. As with 3.5 Cortical Screw but eliminate the 2.5 mm Thread Hole
f. 4.0 Cancellous (partially threaded)
i. Pre-drill (0.062 K-wire= 1.6 mm)
ii. Thread Hole (2.0 mm)
iii. Countersink (Small)
iv. Overdrill (3.5 mm)
v. Depth Gauge
vi. Tap (3.5 mm)
vii. Screw Placement
g. 4.0 Fully Threaded Cancellous Screw
i. Pre-drill (0.062 K-wire= 1.6 mm)
ii. Thread Hole (2.0)
iii. Countersink (Small)
iv. Depth Gauge
v. Tap (3.5 mm)
vi. Screw Placement
h. 4.5 Cortical Screw
i. Pre-drill (0.63 K-wire= 1.6 mm)
ii. Thread Hole (3.2 mm)
iii. Countersink (Large)
iv. Overdrill (4.5 mm)
v. Depth Gauge
vi. Tap (4.5 mm)
vii. Screw Placement
i. 6.5 mm Cancellous Screw (partially threaded)
i. Pre-drill (5/64 K-wire)
ii. Thread Hole (3.2 mm)
iii. Countersink (Large)
iv. Depth Gauge
v. Tap (6.5)
vi. Screw Placement
j. 3.5 mm Cortical Screw (using a T-Sleeve)
i. 3.5 mm drill (proximal cortex only)
ii. 3.5 mm x 2.0 mm drill sleeve
iii. 2.0 mm thread hole of the far cortex
iv. Countersink
v. Depth Gauge
vi. Tap (3.5 mm)
vii. Screw Placement
k. Exercise: Modified Austin With 2 x 2.7 mm Cortical Screw Placement
i. Osteotomy performed with lateral shift of the capitol fragment
ii. Temporary fixation (0.045 K-wire)
iii. Temporary fixation: pilot hole for the proximal screw (0.062 K-wire)
iv. Pilot hole for the distal screw (0.062 K-wire)
v. 2.0 mm thread hole (distal screw)
vi. Countersink (distal screw)
vii. 2.7 mm over drill (distal screw)
viii. Depth gauge (distal screw)
ix. 2.7 mm tap (distal screw)
x. Insert 2.7 mm distal screw
xi. Remove proximal temporary fixation
xii. Proximal screw insertion (as just described)
xiii. Remove distal temporary fixation
xiv. Tighten screws
3. Plating Procedures:
a. Prestressed Plate: Because of the linear design of these plates, this
technique is best used in long bone fractures. The axial load created by a
prestressed plate is a form of static compression, and can be accomplished
three ways:
1. Load Screw Technique:
The most common plate technique in the foot and ankle.
These plates are thin and are semi 1 /3 and 1 /4 round.
They are to be used for tension only and do not provide rigidity against
bending (provided by the thicker Dynamic Compression plate).
Performed by using eccentrically drilled holes, (for the initial two holes)
one just proximal and one distal to the fracture/osteotomy site. As the
screws are tightened down they move the fracture fragments together.
This can be done as a result of the ovoid design of the screw holes in the
plate. These are the load screws. The other screws must be centrally
placed or they will dislodge these load screws.
To prevent the fracture surface from gapping on the opposite side of the
tension surface, the plate can (and should) be prebent at its center. It
now acts as a leaf spring and resists gapping of the opposite cortex.
The use of this concept is limited to transverse metatarsal fractures and
arthrodesis of first metatarsal-cuneiform arthrodesis.
ii. Dynamic Compression Plate: This incorporates the load screw technique
with the added effect of geometrically designed slots within a plate.
These plates are thicker and stiffer than tension plates.
These geometrically designed slots have two features: they are oblong and
longitudinally placed, and they have two different slopes (the first acute slope is
the compression slope/the second slope is the gliding slope). Both of these
features allow for linear motion.
All the screws can be used as load screws (because there is space for the
first two screws to glide after the other screws are tightened down).
There are individual plates corresponding to the 2.7 mm/3.5 mm/4.5 mm
cortical screws.
iii. Tension Device: This can be done only with large bones. It is done by
anchoring a tension device to one of the fragments and to a free end of a plate,
then anchoring the plate to the other side of the fragment and then tightening
the tension device. This causes interfragmental compression.
Jumping Screws
In case of screw failure you must have a backup or alternative. This explains
how to change screws properly
1. To go from a 1.5 to a 2.0 mm screw: Use a 1.5 mm thread hole, followed
by a 2.0 overdrill
Other Techniques
1. Splintage: A technique used to splint or protect a reduced fracture. The
primary uses of splintage are: when interfragmental compression cannot be
used, epiphyseal fractures, and to protect a tenuous interfragmental
compression.
3. K-wires: A single K-wire rarely provides any rigidity, however, crossed Kwires
are best. This is not without its shortcomings as distraction of fracture
fragments can occur. K-wire fixation alone does not afford interfragmental
compression. K-wires do offer stability when used in combination with
intraosseous loop techniques. Threaded K-wires are rarely used as they are
mechanically unsound.
2. Slippage of the Fixation Device: Screws, K-wires, as well as the rest of the
fixators can lose purchase and slip out of place. When this happens, the device
must be removed and replaced with an alternate.
External Fixation
An external fixator can be used in many different ways in the fixation of the
osseous skeleton. However, the use of an external fixator is presently limited in
foot an ankle surgery. With the understanding of the techniques and training
now available, should become a more popular method in the surgeon's
armamentarium. The techniques discussed will be divided into large bone and
small bone fixation
NOTE* After a transfixation wire is inserted, one end of the wire is secured to
the frame, the other end of the wire is tensioned before final fixation
ii. Olive wires: A Kirschner wire with a small bead on it used to abut
against cortical bone to stabilize or pull bone segments. Can serve several
functions: can act as a stabilizing element, can act as a fulcrum or rotation
point around which a deformity correction occurs, or can act as a traction
element to pull bone in a desired direction
iii. Rings: Can be either half-rings, full rings, 5/8 circle rings and Omega rings
(for the shoulder). The half-rings can be bolted together (sizes from 80-240 mm
in diameter) and then the wires are secured to them. One ring can be bolted to
another ring via threaded rods tightened by a nut on the end.
iv. Arches: Arches are large, heavy, curved plates used most commonly for
fixation of the upper femur, and come is three diameters, 90, 110, and 140mm
v. Nuts and bolts: Among other things, these secure the half-rings together. The
bolts come in 10, 16, and 30mm lengths and the head of the bolt fits a 10mm
metric wrench
vi. Fixation bolts: Are used to secure wires to the rings and are either
cannulated, grooved, or cannulated with a tapped head. A cannulated bolt is
used when a wire passes across the center if a hole at the point of fixation, a
grooved bolt is used whenever a wire is tangential to a fixation hole, and a
cannulated bolt with a tapped head is used when wire fixation is needed in a
crowded situation where a connecting rod, socket, plate, or other hardware
must be attached to the same ring position as a wire.
vii. Washers: There are plain washers, grooved washers, and paired spheric
washers. A grooved washer can serve for wire fixation anywhere, and if a wire is
far off a ring's plane for fixation, enough washers can be stacked on a long bolt
to secure the wire. A pair of grooved washers surrounded by a pair of nuts on a
threaded rod can also secure a wire. A pair of spheric washers are useful in
compensating for angulation between a ring and a threaded rod and allow
about 7.5° of anglation in a hole
viii. Threaded rods: Are the basic connectors between the support rings and
come in lengths from 30 to 400 mm
ix. Telescopic Tubes: Are used to prevent frame deformity when there is a long
distance between the support rings
x. Ratchet telescopic rods: Incorporates a ratchet mechanism to simplify
distraction, which the patient can rotate to extend the rod 0.25 mm, and is
calibrated so that the surgeon can assess the elongation or shortening
xi. Posts: Come with one, two, three, or four holes, can have many functions.
Two being to act as a fixation point for wires off the plane of a ring, to act as a
swivel for ring rotation as well as points for pushing or pulling a ring
xii. Buckles: Were Ilizarov's original fixation device
xiii. Plates: Can function as wire attachment points, as a stable supporting
element in push configurations designed simultaneously to angulate and to
translate ring clusters with respect to each other, or to simply enlarge the
diameter of, a small ring
Straight plates
Paddles
Twisted Plates
xiv. Sockets: They function not only as interconnectors between threaded rods,
but also as spacers to raise a point of attachment off the plane of a ring or plate
xv. Bushings: Due to its configuration, will slide along any rod in a fixation
frame. The free movement of such an assembly is used to build a
mechanism for counterrottation of rings or traction on threaded rods or as a
slide assembly to move componants along threaded rods
xvi. Wire tensioners: Are either spring-loaded or threaded. Are used to, apply
tension to the transfixation wires
b. Ring selection: Allow 2-3 cm of clearance between the inner edges of rings
and the “skin”
c. Wire and pin placement: The pins and wires must be placed in certain
locations at specific anatomical levels. The following diagrams show proper pin
placement at different levels
d. Wire tensioning: To achieve enough stiffness in the wires to maintain
stability and overcome intrinsic tissue resistance, the wires must be stretched
like a tightrope. The multiplanar fixation with tensioned wires provides an
optimal environment for bone formation. The fixation resists bending and
torsion, thus minimizing shear forces at the bone-healing interface. The use of
a Richards dynamometric wire tensioner is preferred to accurately tension each
wire. A calibration scale is noted on this instrument from 50 to 130 kg of force.
A tension of 70-110 kg is utilized with a 1.5 mm diameter wire and 70-130 for a
1.8 mm wire
e. Hinge placement: Complex deformities consist of more than one of the
following deformities: length, rotation, angulation, and translation. The actual
sequence of correction of complex deformities can vary, however, in general,
length must be achieved prior to offset and translation, and rotation should be
accomplished last. Once the plane of deformity and the maximum angulation
and translation have been determined, determination of hinge placement is
necessary. This is worked out by geometry (see Figs 1-5)
f. Ilizarov corticotomy: The method of limb lengthening or bone
lengthening consists of external distraction of a surgically created
osteotomy or corticotomy via a percutaneous, subperiosteal incision,
perserving periosteum and endosteum. After a latency period after a
corticotomy anywhere from 7-14 days, distraction of the bone can begin,
anywhere from .5 to 1.0 mm per day. This is called distraction
osteogenesis
g. Techniques in fracture reduction: Several factors are taken into
consideration when a frame is constructed: size and number of fracture
fragments, plane of the fracture lines, condition of the soft tissues, and
proximity of the fracture fragment of the joint and intra-articular
involvement. As a general rule one should achieve 2 levels of fixation in
each major fracture fragment (2 rings applied to any bone segment). The
diatance from a fracture line to a ring is usually 3-4 cm, giving enough
room for compression or distraction, or angulation and translation. The
angle formed by 2 wires crossing a fracture fragment should approach 900
for maximum stability. Intra-articular fractures should be reduced prior to
diaphyseal fractures
h. Illustration of techniques for the foot and ankle:
Malleolar fractures
Catagni, M.A., Malzev, V., Kirienko, A., Advances In Ilizarov Apparatus Assembly, A. Bianchi Maiocchi (ED),
Medicalplastic srl, Milan, 1994
The universal joint allows movement of the ankle during the postoperative
period.
Lateral view of the assembly for reduction and compression of the medial
malleolus.
Catagni, M.A., Malzev, V., Kirienko, A., Advances In IlIzarov Apparatus Assembly, A. Bianchi MaIocchi (ED),
Medicalplastic srl, Milan, 1994
Distal articular (tibial plafond fractures)
Catagni, M.A., Malzev, V., Kirlenko, A., Advances In IlIzarov Apparatus Assembly, A. Bianchi MaIocchi (ED),
Medicalplastic srl, Milan, 1994
CatagnI, M.A., Malzev, V., Kirlenko, A., Advances in Ilizarov Apparatus Assembly, A. Bianchi Maiocchi (ED),
Medicalplastic srl, Milan, 1994
Equinus foot
Catagni, M.A., Malzev, V., KIrienko, A., Advances In IlIzarov Apparatus Assembly, A. Bianchi Maiocchi (ED),
Medicalplastic srl, Milan, 1994
Small Bone External Fixation of the Foot
1. Orthofix modulsystem (Pennig minifixator): Allows for secure fragment
fixation, with minimum of invasive surgery
a. Can be applied under fluorscopy, using minimally invasive threaded rods
b. Allows for 2 pairs of wires to be placed as little as 6 mm apart
c. Fracture reduction is possible on all planes
d. Allows for lengthening, treatment of non-unions, soft tissue correction, and
any technique for compression or distraction
Fractures
Aseptic and infected non-unions
Corrective osteotomies
Lengthening
Replantation
Nail Entities
1. Anonychia: Is the complete absence of one or usually more than one nail.
This condition is a rare congenital anomaly.
i. Caused by ischemia, frostbite, toxic and infectious states, Raynaud's disease,
Darier's disease, lichen planus, subungual neoplasm, fungal infections,
psoriasis, and injuries.
10. Keratoacanthoma: This may develop in the nail beds with serious
consequences to the nail and subungual structures. The lesion appears
suddenly, ulcerated, and both clinically and histologically resembles
squamous carcinoma. Underlying bone may be involved.
13. Lichen Planus: Will result in atrophy of the nail plate and pterygium
formation, which is considered pathognomonic for the disease.
15. Mee's Lines: Is an eponym for horizontal striations that appear in the nails
as a consequence of arsenic and thallium poisoning.
16. Onychauxis: This is the thickened, elongated, raised irregular nail. The
color can be changed from white to a mixture of green, yellow, brown, or
black, all of which may obliterate the lunula.
i. Can be caused by trauma, fungal infection, nutritional disturbances, circulatory
disorders, acute rheumatic fever, secondary syphilis, TB, psoriasis, ichthyosis,
eczema, hyperuricemia, RA, venous stasis, hyperglycemia, hyperthyroidism,
leprosy, peripheral neuritis, tabes dorsalis, and scleroderma.
20. Onycholysis: Detachment of the nail bed from the overlying plate creates a
space between nail plate and nail bed in which keratin forms. This occurs in
numerous conditions:
i. Due to trauma, contact dermatitis due to nail polish, cement and topical drugs,
fungal infection, Pseudomonas infection, psoriasis, hyperthyroidism,
pregnancy, iron deficiency anemia, lichen planus, and many others.
21. Onychomadesis: The shedding of nails from the proximal to the distal free
edge. The pathology in this condition involves lesions to the matrix and the
hyponychium.
i. Due to epilepsy, peripheral neuritis, peripheral thrombosis, embolic
occlusions, diabetes mellitus, syphilis, hemiplegia, syringomyelia, and many
others.
22. Onychorrhexis: Means the breakage of nails, the nail becoming thin
and fragile with exaggerated dermal epidermal subungual sulci.
i. Due to hypochromic anemia, hypocalcemia, lichen planus, RA, radiation,
arsenic and lead poisoning, leprosy, and syphilis.
23. Onychophagia: Means nail biting.
24. Onychoschizia: The nail becomes very fragile, and as a result, distal
splitting of the nail occurs. There are two or more laminations overlying
each other. The nail appears multilayered.
i. Due to acromegaly, chronic eczema, metabolic acidosis, peripheral nerve lesions,
trauma, infectious diseases, hyperthyroidism, and hypochromic anemia.
26. Squamous Cell Carcinoma: This occurs under nail plates usually as a
result of a progression from squamous cell Ca in situ (Bowen's disease). It
must be differentiated from keratoacanthoma. (see Dermatology section)
NOTE* Changes in nail color are markers for disease of blood, endocrine system,
cardiovascular and peripheral vascular systems, and toxicity of drugs,
chemicals or metals:
a. Yellow nails: may suggest Addison's disease or diabetes mellitus b. Blue
nails: may be a sign of cyanosis or heavy metal poisoning c Green nails:
Pseudomonas infection
d. Black-brown discoloration: may be normal pigmentation, Peutz Jaegher disease
(also have brown macules on the palms and soles), Addison's disease,
junctional nevus, or melanoma
e. White nails: may be hereditary, a sign of anemia, fungal infection, BartPumphrey
Syndrome
f. White striae: arsenic poisoning or drug toxicity
g. White spots: injury to the nail plate, psoriasis
h. Alternating white lines with pink nail (Muercke's lines): may suggest
anemia, chronic liver disease, nephrotic syndrome, or Darier- White disease
i. Reddish nails (or combination of red/white/brown): may be signs of localized
neoplastic disease
Nail Anatomy
1. The matrix is a stratified epithelium that produces hard keratin. Proximal
matrix forms the superior nail and the distal matrix forms the lower nail.
2. Hyponychium is an epithelial layer of the nail bed and really does not
produce much nail plate keratin. It does help, however, in subungual debris
production.
3. Predominantly nail develops from the matrix, but the proximal nail fold,
lateral grooves, bed, and hyponychium can all be onychogenic.
4. The nail plate can be separated into 3 zones with predominantly different
beginnings. The uppermost layer is generated by the proximal nail fold, the
plate by the matrix, and the deepest section of the nail plate is contributed
to by the nail folds and bed.
5. The nail matrix is found on the proximal slope of the distal phalanx and
extends medial and lateral to the phalanx. The germinal matrix extends
laterally as far as the width of the nail plate just distal to the lunula and with
the same curvature. Proximally it extends to 1 1 /2 to 2 1 /2 times the length
of the visible lunula.
6. The lunula is a white semi-lunar area corresponding to the anterior matrix.
7. The nail bed consists of the hyponychium and corium over the matrix.
NOTE* The following are cold steel procedures. The indications are: chronically
recurring ingrown toenail, failed Phenol-Alcohol procedure, chronic
hypertrophic ungual labia, subungual exostosis in combination with
dystrophic, hypertrophic or mycotic nail, patient in whom chemical or thermal
bum is contraindicated (diabetes?), excision and biopsy of nail/nail
bed/matrix tissue, in conjunction with bunion procedures, patients who will
not comply with postoperative regimen of Phenol-Alcohol procedures,
cosmetic reconstruction of deformity, and surgeon's preference.
3. Frost Procedure:
i. For ingrown toenail with "proud flesh" and chronically hypertrophic ungual
labia
ii. Excise a piece of matrix through an inverse "L" shaped incision
iii. Nail and matrix along the problem labia is excised with the second incision
iv. Closure is with suture after curettement of the phalanx
v. Due to the tissue necrosis that occurs, this procedure requires both
primary and secondary wound healing, therefore of little advantage over non-
cold steel procedures
4. Zadek Procedure: Based on the premise that excision of the nail bed was
not necessary in preventing regrowth of the nail, therefore Zadik directed his
attention only to the nail matrix.
i. The incisions utilized are perhaps this procedures greatest contribution
ii. Utilized more for total nail excisions in the lesser digits
iii. Not recommended for the difficult onychauxic nail (where nail bed removal
may also he necessary)
7. Suppan Procedure:
i. Frees the eponychial fold and removes the nail
ii. Visualizes the nail matrix proximally
iii. Cut the lateral borders and the anterior borders
iv. Hold tag and remove the proximal attachment
v. Curette down to bone into the lateral cul de sac
iii. Stance and gait: There are specific gait patterns associated with specific
diseases.
Abnormal Gait Patterns
Spastic gait- Manifested by internal rotation and adduction of the entire
limb, with hip/knee/ankle in marked flexion. Seen with cerebral palsy,
familial spastic diplegia, paraplegia, and hemiplegia.
Dyskinetic gait- A constant movement abnormality with a high degree of
variability from patient to patient and gait cycle to gait cycle. It is
characterized by motion involving considerable effort, often with deliberate,
almost concentrated step. Seen with cerebral palsy. Huntington's chorea, and
dystonia musculorum deformans.
Ataxic gait- Characterized by a marked instability during single limb stance
with an alternating wide/narrow base during double support. During swing
phase the limb will swing widely and cross the midline. Seen with multiple
sclerosis, tabes dorsalis, diabetic polyneuropathy, Friedreich's ataxia.
Waddling gait- A labored walking, exhibiting difficulty with balance,
proximal pelvic instability, leading to a lumbar lordosis. May see an
associated equinovarus foot type. Seen with Duchenne muscular dystrophy,
limb-girdle muscular dystrophy, Beckers muscular dystrophy, spinal
muscular atrophy, and congenital dislocated hips.
Steppage gait- Gait exhibits a swing phase drop foot. Seen with Charcot-
Marie-Tooth, polio, Guillain-Barre syndrome, CVA, paralytic drop foot, and
fascioscapulohumeral dystrophy.
Vaulting gait- Gait changes include a high cadence, increased lateral trunk
movement, scissoring and instability from step to step, suggesting a loss of
balance. Seen with myotonic dystrophy.
Equinus gait- Gait exhibits a swing phase ankle plantarflexion with no heel
contact. Seen with cerebral palsy, Charcot-Marie-Tooth, muscular dystrophy,
spinal muscular atrophy, schizophrenia, osseous block of the ankle, and
habitual toe walking.
Festinating gain- Gait changes include loss of reciprocal arm swing,
decreased velocity, shuffling, decreased stride length, and increased cadence.
Seen with Parkinson's disease.
Trendelenberg gait- Stance phase of each step leads to a contralateral tilt of
the pelvis with a deviation of the spine to the affected side. Seen with
dislocated hip or weakness of gluteus medius.
iv. Deep tendon reflexes (DTR's): Assesses the afferent nerve, the synaptic
connections within the spinal cord, the motor nerves, and the descending motor
pathways. It is important to note right and left asymmetries and the degree of
activity, measured from zero to five (zero= no activity, 1= hypotonia, 2= normal,
3= exaggerated response, 4= multiple contractions, 5= sustained contractions).
Hyperreflexia indicates a lesion in the corticospinal thalamic tracts.
Hyporeflexia indicates a lesion in the lower motor neurons or an intrinsic
muscle weakness. The DTR's tested are the:
Biceps/brachioradialis (C5 and C6)
Triceps (C7 and C8)
Patellar (L2, L3, and L4)
Achilles (S1).
v. The plantar response, or the Babinski reflex is the response to striking the
sole (extention of the great toe), and when present represents an upper motor
neuron lesion of the pyramidal tract.
vi. Rossolimo Sign (reflex): involves flicking the plantar aspects of the toes,
distally. Flexion response occurs in pyramidal tract disease. This same
response may accompany a Babinski reflex.
vi. Rhomberg's sign: assesses balance (cerebellar function) and if abnormal the
patient will not be able to stand with feet together and eyes closed.
Proprioceptive control is lost.
vii. Sensory system testing:
*Pain and temperature (lateral spinothalamic tract) testing is done with a pin
and an ice cube placed on various dermatomes (See Figure 1).
*Vibratory testing (posterior columns) is done with a tuning fork (128
cycles/sec) over a bony prominence or joint.
*Joint position (posterior columns) is performed by moving the first m.p. joint
into either extension or flexion with the patient's eyes closed.
*Light touch (anterior spinothalamic tracts) is performed using a nylon filament
over various dermatomes.
T-Toxic
H-Hereditary
R-Recurrent
A-Amyloidosis
P-Porphyria
I-Infectious
S-Systemic
T-Tumor
4. Infectious Diseases:
a. Meningitis: Causes symptoms such as fever, neck stiffness, disorders of
consciousness, and seizures. 80-90% of cases of meningitis are caused by one
of three organisms, H. influenzae, N. meningitis, and D. pneumoniae. Diagnosis
is confirmed by lumbar puncture (CSF is cloudy, pressure
elevated, WBC > 1000/mm3, and positive CBS). Treatment is usually penicillin
G for N. meningitis and D. pneumoniae, and ampicillin for H. influenzae.
Positive Brudzinski and Kernig signs clinically.
b. Tuberculosis: Can result in multiple cranial nerve palsies.
c. Neurosyphilis: Occurs in 25% of patients with syphilis. Diagnosis is by FTA-
ABS test. Penicillin is the treatment of choice.
d. Fungal Infections: Cryptococcus neoformans (most common organism) which
can produce a subacute meningitis.
e. Acute Viral Infections: Poliomyelitis, starts as a flu-like illness, followed by
meningitis, and then flaccid paralysis of the limbs and trunk. Herpes zoster
(shingles) has a dermatomal distribution of vesicles and demonstrates
segmental weakness and pain, sometimes for years.
5. Movement Disorders: Are generally extrapyramidal
a. Parkinson's Disease: Characterized by hypokinesia, tremor, rigidity and
disorders of gait and balance. On examination there is a "pill rolling" tremor of
the hands. The drugs used to treat this disease either act by decreasing
cholinergic activity (trihexyphenidyl) or by increasing dopaminergic activity (L-
dopa usually combined with carbidopa).
b. Chorea: A variety of neurologic diseases are associated with chorea such as,
childhood rheumatic fever (Sydenham's chorea), systemic disorders
hyperthyroidism, hypoparathyroidism, and SLE), drugs (oral contraceptives),
pregnancy, and hereditary disorders (Huntington's chorea).
i. Huntington's chorea: an inherited disease than begins to manifest itself
between the ages of 30-40 with. progression to death within 20 years.
Manifested by the combination of chorea and dementia.
c. Dystonia: Is a movement disorder likely to be seen first by podiatrists,
presenting with a slow sustained contraction of muscle groups, resulting in
abnormal postures of the trunk and extremities, and of more rapid, twisting
movements.
i. Dystonia musculorum deformans: a primary hereditary disorder, presents
usually with an equinovarus foot.
d. Tremor: Essential tremor is a benign disorder that frequently accompanies
other neurologic conditions.
NOTE* Pes cavus is the major foot type associated with neurologic illness.
Patients with pes cavus can be divided into four groups:
1. Patients with hereditofamilial disease: Friedreich's ataxia and Charcot-
MarieTooth disease.
2. Those who have isolated pes cavus but whose family members have one of
the aforementioned hereditofamilial neurologic diseases.
3. Those with isolated, or idiopathic, familial pes cavus with no family history
of hereditofamilial neurologic disease.
4. Those with familial pes cavus and lymphedema (very rare syndrome).
NOTE* The Brown Sequard syndrome occurs after hemisection of the spinal
cord, which results in an ipsilateral spastic paralysis and loss of postural
sense, and on the opposite side a loss of pain and temperature sensations
Vasomotor disturbance
Vasodilation: warm skin, dry skin, and hypohidrosis
Vasoconstriction: cyanosis, cool skin, edema of the part, and hyperhidrosis
NOTE* The striking feature is that while all signs and symptoms are usually
resent, a patient often manifests one out of proportion to all the others.
i. There are three grades based upon mode of onset, Intensity, and
preponderance of symptoms
Grade 1 (SEVERE): rapid onset, severe burning/knifelike pain, severe
vasomotor disturbance, no mobility, atrophy early.
Grade 2 (MODERATE): slow onset, dull/throbbing diffuse pain, aggravated
by walking (and relieved with rest and immobilization), edema, atrophy, and
osteoporosis.
Grade 3 (MILD): most common type, the border zone between normal
response and exaggerated response so is often overlooked, usually seen after
surgical procedures
ii. There are three stages of the disease divided as per the time frame -
Stage 1 (days to weeks): Characterized by
Pain
Hyperesthesia
Hyperalgesia
Localized edema
Muscle spasm and tenderness
Vasomotor disease
No x-ray changes
Trophic changes of hair, nails and skin begin
In mild cases (GRADE 3) this stage lasts a few weeks and then subsides
spontaneously
In severe cases (GRADE 1) symptoms become progressively worse
NOTE* The goal is to restore functional and anatomical integrity ASAP and
break the sympathetic response.
iii. Treatment:
Neurology consult
Psychiatric consult
Anesthesiology consult
Sympathectomy (GRADE 1) -Local blocks (GRADE 2 and 3)
Physical therapy
Systemic steroids (?)
Beta blockers (?)
TENS (?)
Axain + topical lidocaine (?)
Procardia (?)
Analgesics (?)
Medication to reduce patients' stress
5. Diagnosis: Not always easy, as the signs are not always definitive a. History
of paresthesias
b. History of trauma
c. History of systemic disease
d. Hoffman-Tinel's sign: A tingling in region of the distribution of the involved
nerve with light percussion, results in paresthesias distal to the site of
percussion.
e. Valleix Phenomena: A nerve trunk tenderness above and below the point of
compression, with paresthesias proximal and distal to the point of percussion.
f. Turk's test: Application of a venous tourniquet to the lower extremity will
elicit positive symptoms on the affected side, by producing a venous occlusion.
g. Forced eversion of the foot.
h. Positive radiographic evidence of previous injury
i. Positive lab studies for any specific disease
j. EMG's and nerve conduction studies are only useful for late stage disease.
6. Treatment: Conservative
a. Local blocks: Posterior tibial nerve blocks with steroids
b. Unna boot: can be combined with nerve blocks
c. Support hose: for varicosities
d. Functional orthoses
7. Treatment: Surgical Decompression (positive EMG's and nerve conduction
studies mandate surgical decompression). Involves the complete exploration of
the tarsal tunnel with release of the flexor retinaculum and its fibrous bands,
and resection and ligation of any dilated veins in the area.
The surgical technique is as follows:
a. Without a tourniquet, a curvilinear incision is made posterior and inferior to
the medial malleolus by 1 cm.
b. The subcutaneous tissue is incised and the superficial vessels are ligated as
necessary.
c. The neurovascular structures superior to the retinaculum are identified,
preserved, and retracted (especially the medial calcaneal branch).
d. The flexor retinaculum is incised and the posterior tibial nerve or its terminal
branches are identified and mobilized.
e. The nerve(s) is retracted with a penrose drain.
f. The nerve(s) is followed proximally, incising the flexor retinaculum as you go.
g. The nerve(s) is followed distally to the point where the medial and lateral
plantar nerves pass through the fibrous canals superior to the abductor
hallucis ms. belly.
h. The abductor hallucis ms. is examined for any abnormality, and any
hypertrophy is excised.
i. If there are any posterior tibial vein varicosities, they should be ligated.
j. The retinaculum is not reapproximated and no deep closure is done.
k. The superficial fascia is reapproximated and the skin reapproximated
l. Sterile compression dressing and a non-weight-bearing BK cast applied for 3
weeks.
8. Complications:
a. Recurrence: due to fibrosis
b. Severing the PT artery : if done then tie off and prepare patient for
microvascular repair later.
c. Severing a nerve
d. Tenosynovitis
e. Hematoma
f. Wound dehiscence
3. Neuroma (Morton's):
a. Definition: A neuroma represents hyperplasia of Schwann cells, axonal
elements and fibroblasts in an area where proximal elements cannot relocate to
their distal pathways
b. Histopathology: The term neuroma refers only to nodules that are formed by
hyperplasia of axons and Schwann cells. This process is characterized by
endoneural and neural edema (early stages); perineural, epineural, and
endoneural fibrosis (late stages); and eventually demyelination. It is a reactive
lesion, not a tumor. The term 'Morton's Neuroma' refers to a lesion in the third
intermetatarsal space only.
b. Proportional measurements
i. Head circumference (averages 13 inches/slightly larger than the chest)
ii. Chest circumference
iii. Sitting height (crown rump height roughly equal to the head circumference)
f. Examination of the spine: The infant is placed on his abdomen, and the hand
is run over the spine and palpation for scoliosis/kyphosis is performed.
i. Congenital scoliosis: is concerned with scoliosis arising in association with
congenital vertebral anomalies. Some children with congenital scoliosis show
curvature at birth, but many do not. The anomalies and variations in
development of the vertebrae may be single or multiple and may be associated
with other anomalies, particularly in the ribs, which are frequently combined
with spina bifida.
ii. Congenital kyphosis: kyphosis at birth is almost always due to congenital
anomaly of the vertebral column.
iii. Klippel-Feil syndrome: absence of one or more cervical vertebrae, or
two or more fused together, with brain stem abnormalities
iv. Vertebral agenesis: absence of only the coccygeal segment to
absence of all the lumbar and sacral vertebrae.
v. Spina bifida: see section Congenital Deformities
g. Examination of the lower extremities
i. Gross abnormalities
ii. Examination of the hip (dislocation/ femoral rotation/neonatal osteomyelitis)
iii. Examination of the knee and leg (dislocation/bowing of tibia/tibial torsion).
Bowing of the tibia in the infant is present in achondroplasia.
iv. Examination of the foot (metatarsus adductus/calcaneovalgus/ convex pes
planus/ talipes equinovarus)
NOTE* Absence of this response in the newborn indicates severe CNS injury or
deficiency. Absence of the Moro reflex in one arm indicates a fractured
humerus, brachial nerve palsy, or fractured clavicle. Absence of the Moro reflex
of one leg indicates lower spinal injury, myelomeningocele, avulsion of the
cord, or dislocated hip. A hyperactive Moro reflex indicates tetany, tetanus (not
clostridium), or CNS infection. This reflex should disappear by the 5th month.
3. History Taking:
a. Pregnancy:
i. Maternal trauma ?
ii. Any medications?
iii. Complications? Hemorrhaging?
iv. Delivery: Full-term, premature (<38 weeks- 1500 grams), natural,
prolonged, C-section, fetal distress?
Pediatric Biomechanics-Normal Values: Newborn to
Adult
1. Chart of normal findings:
Part Birth Position Adult Position
Thigh/Femur/Hip Angle of head and neck of femur=150° At age 6 years=125°
(angle of Inclination)
Externally rotated 60° At age 6 years=0
Femoral torsion (angle declination)=30° At age 6 years=10°
Total range of motion=150° Past puberty=100°
Knee (Birth) (1&1/2-3yr) (3-6yr) (7-puberty) (puberty-18) (over 18) (over 60)
Genu Varum Straight Genu valgum Straight Genu valgum Straight G. valgum
Genu Recurvatum=5-10° At age 6 years =0°
Externally rotated=30° At age 6 years=0°
Frontal plane rotation=5-10° At age 6 years=0-5°
Transverse plane rotation=5-15° At age 6 years=0-5°
Leg/Tibia Varum(approx. 15°) At age 18 years=0-2° varum
Tibial torsion at birth=0° 1 yr=6°, 2-3 yr=10-15°, 5-6 yr=18-23°
Malleolar torsion at birth=0° 5-6 yr=13-18°
Rearfoot At birth= 10° varus approx. At 6 years=2-5° varus
Talocalcaneal angle=30-50° At 6 yrs=25-30°
Calcaneal inclination angle=approx. 14° At 6 yrs=20° approx.
Talar declination angle=approx. 30° At 6 yrs=21° approx.
Calcaneal stance @ 1 yr=5-10° 5 yr=3-8° 8 yr=<2° external rot.
Dorsiflexion=45° approx. After age 18=10V min
Forefoot Varus 10-15° At age 6=0-2° varus
Metatarsus adductus=15-35° Adult=15-22°
Congenital Deformities
1. Dislocated Hip:
At birth there may be no clinical sign of dysplasia of the hip, so periodic
examinations during the first year are therefore necessary. No clinical sign is
diagnostic by itself. This can present with an older child that limps.
a. Girls are more susceptible than boys
b. Unilateral cases are more common than bilateral, with infants born by
breech more at risk.
c. Diagnostic tests:
i. Ortolani's sign: with adduction of the thighs, a click when the femoral head
is either made to enter the acetabulum or emerge from it, or telescoping of the
flexed and adducted thigh on the pelvis.
ii. Barlow's sign: like Ortolani's sign, except using abduction.
iii. Anchor sign: The infant should be examined while on his abdomen and a
difference in gluteal folds of the two thighs is checked. A difference in the
number of folds can indicate a dislocated hip (not accurate).
iv. Galezzi's sign: while the hips are flexed and the knees flexed while the baby
is on his back, a dislocated hip results in a lower knee position on the affected
side.
v. Abduction test: while the infant is on his back, flex the knees and then
bring them down to the table in the flexed position. A dislocated hip will have
limitation of abduction on the affected side.
d. Radiological examination: The value of radiography of the hip of young
babies is limited by 3 important factors: that only AP views of the pelvis
can be taken; that much of the hip joint is cartilaginous; and that excessive
radiation should be avoided.
NOTE* Two AP views should be taken: one with the lower limbs lying together
and a second with the hips medially rotated and abducted by 45 degrees.
i. Acetabular index: the angle formed by a line touching the inferior margin of
the ilium and Hilgenreiner's line. Greater than a 30 degree angle is indicative of
a dislocated hip (only useful in a unilateral dislocations).
ii. Hilgenreiner's horizontal reference line: across the upper edges of the
ischiopubic joint. In the normal child, the metaphysis should lie well below this
line, and the epiphysis should only just reach to this line
iii. Perkin's vertical reference line: a perpendicular line dropped through the
anterior inferior iliac spine at right angles to Hilgenreiner's line. Normally, the
femoral epiphysis and the beak-like medial side of the epiphysis on its inner
side.
iv. Shenton's line: lies along the upper margin of the obdurator foramen and
continues outward and downward along the under surface of the femoral neck
and the medial aspect of the shaft of the femur. This forms an even curve in the
normal baby, but is interrupted in the dislocated hip.
v. Simon's line: from the lateral margin of the ilium to the upper and outer edge
of the acetabulum, and then continues downwards and outwards along the
upper margin of the femoral neck. This forms an even curve in the normal
baby, but is interrupted in the dislocated hip.
NOTE* Shenton's line and Simon's line can be identified even before the
femoral epiphysis is present. When the epiphysis has appeared, then other
information can be obtained by drawing Hilgenreiner's line and Perkin's line.
vi. Von Rosen's Sign: an AP radiograph is taken with the hips extended and the
thighs abducted 45 degrees and medially rotated. A line drawn along the axis of
the shaft of the femur running close to the anterior superior iliac spine and
crossing the center of the spinal column above the lumbosacral junction
constitutes a positive sign for dislocated hip.
e. Trendelenberg Gait: seen with bilateral dislocated hips
f. There are three forms of congenital hip:
i. Acetabulum dysplasia
ii. Neuromuscular problems
iii. Capsular laxity
Measurements from the above diagram for detection of congenital hip:
Keats TE, Lusted LB: Atlas of Roentgenographic Measurements, Yearbook Medical Publishers, Chicago, 1985, with
permission
1= Hilgenreiner's line, Y line, or symphyseal line, drawn horizontally through the cotyloid
notches of the acetabula
2 & 3= Distances from the apex of the femoral head to Hilgenreiner's line (1), normally these
distances are equal
4= Shenton's line. Follows the upper arched contour of the obdurator foramen, thus marking
the lower margin of the pubic bone, and is continued as a regularly curved line Into the lower
boarder of the femoral neck
5= Break in the continuity of Shenton's line, indicating a dislocation or fracture
6= Fusion of the ischiopubic syndrosis, may be delayed with a dislocation
7= The angle of the acetabulum. If this angle is more than 300 in the newborn and 25° in the
one year old it Is said that there is a "steep acetabular roof" and indicative of a dislocation
(should decrease to 20° by age 2)
8= The diaphyseal interval, the distance between the diaphysis of the femur and Hilgenreiner's
line. This distance should be less than 6 cm
9= If in the newborn the distance of the pivotal point (point of intersection of line 8 and
Hilgenreiner's line) from the tip of the acetabular angle Is more than 16 mm, subluxation must
be suspected
10= This is the horizontal distance between the vertical line of Ombredanne (Perkin's line) and
line 8. This distance is normally less than one-half the epiphyseal width (not illustrated)
11= The vertical line of Ombredanne (Perkin's line) which intersects the upper jutting edge of
the acetabular roof and is perpendicular to Hilgenreiner's line. The center of ossification of the
normal femoral head lies below the horizontal line and medial to the vertical line. In cases of
dislocation this center will be above and lateral respectively
12= The parallelogram of Kopitz. In cases of dislocation a rhomboid will be observed, and the
head of the femur will have an eccentric position
13= The guide line of the Y symphysis down from the center of the acetabulum to the center of
the head
14= The axis of the neck of the femur
15= The angle between 13 and 14 is normally 120°-125°
2. Spina Bifida:
a. Spina bifida occurs in about 1 out of every 1000 live births, the common
problem with this deformity is neuropathy (sensory deficit)
b. Minor degrees of spina bifida affecting the 5th lumbar vertebrae are
insignificant and pose no problems.
c. Spina bifida can be grouped into three clinical entities:
i. Simple meningocele: which may be present anywhere in the spine, however,
most common in the lumbosacral/sacral region, and is caused by a failure of
fusion of the vertebral arches with cystic degeneration of the meninges. It
presents itself with a swelling in the back covered by skin or a thin membrane.
It is flaccid and capable of being transilluminated. The swelling consists of
herniation of the dura and arachnoid filled with cerebral spinal fluid. The lower
limbs show no deformity or any abnormal reflexes.
ii. Open myelomeningocele: most commonly seen in the lumbar/lumbosacral
spine. Patients seen at one day old present with an oval area of red glistening
tissue at the center of the lesion constituting the dysplastic portion of the
spinal cord. The skin is often thin or shows pigmentation in the region
adjoining its junction with the membranous area. In 50% of the children born
with this there may be one or more abnormalities depending upon the cord
level: adduction/lateral rotation of the hip, fixed or limited flexion of the
knee or fixed recurvatum, equinus, equinovarus, calcaneus,
calcaneovalgus, equinovalgus, vertical talus, and clawtoes. The deformity
is always bilateral and symmetrical
iii. Closed myelomeningocele and spina bifida occulta: presents with a
lipomatous or cystic swelling, abnormal pigmentation, hair, and formation of a
dermal sinus. The vertebral arches are unfused, but there is no gross distention
of the meninges. This generally occurs at L5 or S1.
3. Congenital Calcaneovalgus:
This is the most frequently encountered congenital podiatric deformity. It is the
prime cause of the flexible flatfoot deformity.
a. It can be unilateral or bilateral, but is usually bilateral, one side being more
severe than the other.
b. Etiology:
i. Abnormal intrauterine position
ii. Excessive internal limb rotation in fetal life
c. Physical findings:
i. The dorsal surface of the foot is in contact with the anterior surface of the
lower leg.
ii. Redundant skin folds in the lateral malleolar area and tight skin at the
anterior ankle.
d. Clinical findings:
i. The foot lies in acute extention and slight valgus.
ii. Forefoot varus
iii. Rearfoot valgus
iv. Tendo achilles is tight
v. Plantarflexion restricted/ dorsiflexion greater than 15 degrees
vi. Prominent talar head (plantarmedial prominence)
e. Pathology:
i. Talocalcaneal ligaments are relaxed or lacking
ii. The navicular is laterally displaced to the talus
iii. The distal aspect of the calcaneus is laterally displaced
iv. External tibial torsion co-exists in majority of cases
f. Radiological changes:
(Lateral View)
i. Increased talar declination angle
ii. Plantarflexed talus
iii. The talar head overlaps the distal superior calcaneal surface
iv. The bisection of the talus falls below the cuboid ossification center
(D-P View)
i. Grossly excessive-talocalcaneal angle
g. Treatment:
i. Manipulation: the foot is brought down perpendicular to the ankle
with the heel in neutral position (5 times per correction, 3 times per day
for mild cases)
ii. Casting: applying a BK or AK cast, the foot is held in equinus with
plantarflexion of the first metatarsal and adduction of the forefoot to align
the T-N joint. The rearfoot held in neutral position. Casting weekly for 3-6
months. Following casting, Ganley splints used for 6 months @ 12
hours/day.
NOTE* The key to the treatment is gentle, gradual, and persistent correction.
iii. Surgery: reserved when the T-C angle exceeds 30-35 degrees
NOTE* Aggressive surgical approach is indicated when the T-N joint is non-
reducible
e. Treatment:
i. Manipulation
ii. Shoe therapy
iii. Wheaton Brace (works well in a flexible deformity in child under 1
year old)
iv. Serial cast immobilization (cast with the calcaneus in neutral/with an
abductory forefoot force) Use 2 sets of casts .
v. Orthoses
vi. Surgery: Should postpone surgery until after age 2-3 years (HHS: soft
tissue; Johnson: cartilaginous; Lepird and Berman 8 Gartland: osseous)
6. Talipes Equinovarus:
Clubfoot may be acquired or congenital. At birth, other disturbances such as
hip dysplasia/neuromuscular disorders/poliomyelitis/tibial epiphysis
abnormality must be ruled out in with patients with clubfoot.
a. Incidence:
i. 1:1000 births (according to Kite)
ii. Increases to 1:35 if a sibling has clubfoot
iii. Males to female ratio is 2:1
b. Etiology:
i. Arrest of fetal development (Max Bohm: JBJS, 1929)
ii. Combination of inheritance and environmental factors (Ruth WyneeDavis:
JBJS, 1929)
iii. Primary germplasm defect (George Settle: JBJS, 1963) iv. Genetic factors
(Palmer)
c. Physical findings:
i. Medial border concave/lateral border convex ii. Talar head prominent
laterally with inversion iii. Palpation of a medially displaced navicular
iv. Deep furrowed creases along the medial longitudinal arch area and the
posterior ankle.
d. Clinical findings:
i. Inversion and adduction of the forefoot
ii. Inversion of the rearfoot
iii. Talocalcaneal equinus/tibiotalar equinus
iv. No dorsiflexion
v. Associated with tibial torsion and cavus deformity (with cavus deformity
there is also plantarflexion of the forefoot on the rearfoot).
e. Types:
i. Rigid: usually genetic and very resistant to treatment (seen with small,
inverted, plantarflexed calcaneus, and posterior leg atrophy)
ii. Flexible: usually due to intrauterine position and usually responds to
casting.
f. Pathology:
i. The major defect is in the talus, with the head and neck medially and
plantarly deviated, the superior surface is anterior displaced out of the ankle
mortise, and the sinus tarsi is opened as the anterior facet is tilted medially.
ii. The T-N and C-C joints face medially and plantarly, with the C-C lying below
the T-N joint.
iii. Tibia is usually OK, occasionally, tibial torsion involved iv. Soft tissue
contractures:
Posterior- ankle capsule, STJ capsule, calcaneofibular ligament,
tendoachilles.
Medial- spring ligament, deltoid ligament, ms. TP, FDL, FHL.
Plantar- plantar fascia, abd. hallucis, FHD.
g. Radiographic findings:
i. DP view reveals S angle of Kite (T-C angle): 0-15° with clubfoot
ii. DP view reveals superimposition of talar head and the anterior surface of the
calcaneus.
iii. DP view reveals ossification center of the navicular is medially displaced
iv. Lateral view with dorsiflexion and forced equinus, reveals calcaneal
inclination angle of approx. 17° (normal is 45°).
v. Lateral view reveals a bisection of talus is above the metatarsals h.
Treatment: Conservative vs. surgical
i. Serial casting (Kite: JBJS 1963): must be done early and as follows
• First, correct the forefoot adduction- Position the forefoot in abduction
and push in and up under the calcaneocuboid joint and forcing the forefoot
laterally. Abduction is positive and will cause a flatfoot condition
• Second, correct the inverted heel- Before the equinus can be corrected
these 2 deviations must be treated and corrected first (if not a rockerbottom
foot will develop). The cuboid must be brought up to the calcaneus and the
navicular must be brought up to the talus.
NOTE* Do not attempt to fix the equinus until the foot is mildly flat
NOTE* Maintain the casts until a correction is achieved and then follow with a
Ganley splint for the same amount of time that casting was utilized
i. Radiographic findings consistent with a failed treatment:
i. Forefoot is dorsiflexed on the rearfoot at the midtarsal joint
ii. Rocker-bottom deformity
iii. Flat-topped talus (can be due to talar head ischemic necrosis from
compression)
NOTE* Functional digit articulates with metatarsal head properly and has
better blood supply
Pediatric Radiology
1. Roentgenographic Development of the Foot:
a. Important ossification points to remember:
i. 1st bone to ossify before birth: calcaneus
ii. Last bone to ossify before birth: cuboid
iii. 1st bone to ossify after birth: lateral cuneiform
iv. Last tarsal bone to ossify after birth: navicular at 3.5 years
v. Calcaneal apophysis appears at age 7 years
vi. Sesamoids appear at age 12 years
b. Ossification at birth:
i. Talus
ii. Calcaneus
iii. Cuboid (can be absent in the premature baby)
iv. Metatarsals
v. Proximal phalanges
vi. Middle and distal phalanges 2-4
vii. Distal phalanx 1
c. Age 3 months: lateral cuneiform
d. Age 4 months: tibial epiphysis
e. Age 6 months: cuboid and lateral cuneiform articulate
f. Age 7 months: talar neck appears, base of metatarsals widen
g. Age 11 months: fibular epiphysis appears
h. Age 18 months: phalangeal epiphyses appear
i. Age 24 months: medial cuneiform and ossification of epiphysis of metatarsal
1
j. Age 30 months: intermediate cuneiform ossifies
k. Age 36 months: ossification of epiphysis of metatarsals 2, 3, and 4
l. Age 3.7 years.: ossification of navicular
m. Age 4.2 years: ossification of epiphysis metatarsal 5
n. Age 4.9 years: alignment of tarsal and metatarsal bones
Intoe Gait
1. Evaluation:
a. History:
i. Onset of the problem: What age? Sudden onset? How long?
ii. Severity of the problem: Difficulty walking? Falling? Does not want to
play? More pronounced in rigid shoes?
iii. Developmental history: as previously discussed
iv. Hospitalizations/ injuries v. Family history
b. Observation of gait:
i. Angle of gait: in-toe or out-toe or rectus
ii. Position of the knee at midstance: externally/ internally deviated,
straight
iii. Presence of a limp?
iv. Presence of equinus?
v. Early heel lift off?
vi. Bouncing gait?
vii. Rapid out-toe after midstance?
viii. Excessive pronation? No arch present?
c. Examination of hips: (performed in younger children: < 2 years)
i. Should be able to abduct hips at least 70° (flexing hips and knees)
d. Determination of femoral position:
i. Mark the center of both knees and position them straight up
ii. With the child lying down" and the hip and knee extended, rotate the
femur inward (estimate the number of degrees)
NOTE* This is done by rotating the knee and visualizing this by noting the
numbers on a clock, whereby each hour equals 30°. So if the knee moves from
the straight up position to 2 o'clock (external) that equals 60° of external
rotation.
iii. Rotate the femur outward (estimate the number of degrees of motion)
iv. Perform the same examination with the hip flexed an then with the knee
flexed (to eliminate soft tissue elements)
NOTE* If the measurements vary with positional changes then the abnormal
endings are due to soft tissue tightness. If the measurements are the same
then the problem is torsional within the femur.
NOTE* Type 6 was added by Rang, a bruising of the peripheral growth plate
secondary to blunt trauma, resulting in a peripheral osseous bridge causing
angular deformity (treat with resection of the osseous bridge with correction of
the angular deformity)
i. S-H Type 1: Fibular fracture
occurs due to inversion stress
may appear as an isolated injury or in combination with a medial corner
injury to the ankle (Salter 3 Tibial)
diagnosis is difficult (there should be at least one cm of lateral soft tissue
swelling around the plate area)
these fractures may or may not be displaced
good prognosis
apply short-leg walking cast for at least 3 weeks
occurs in ages < 12
ii. S-H Type 1: Tibial fracture
occurs from shear stress due to external rotation injuries
can occur with fibula shaft fracture which is usually transverse
may be displaced or nondisplaced
good prognosis
treat with closed reduction (prn) and immobilze in NWB A-K cast for 3 weeks
plus 2 weeks in a B-K cast
iv. Treat if non-displaced with a A-K cast for 6-8 weeks with some internal
rotation of the lower end of the cast
NOTE* Treatment is ORIF if displaced with lag screw technique from distal
lateral to proximal medial (can cross the physis since growth is already
completed)
Note* To best view this fracture, take an oblique x-ray in which the fibula is
rotated internally to eliminate the overlap of the tibia to better see the entire
distal tibial epiphysis
3. Preteens-Teens:
a. Congenital dislocated hip
b. Slipped proximal femoral capital epiphysis (the patient is usually larger and
male; holds leg in internal rotation; in gait patient lurches over the involved hip
3. Complications:
a. The most common complication seen with correction of juvenile bunion is
shortening of the first metatarsal. This is a result of interruption of growth of
the physis from
i. Base wedge osteotomies
ii. Epiphysiodesis
2. Gait evaluation:
a. Head tilt: Observe the position of the head in gait. An obvious tilt away from
the midline would indicate a possible limb length deficit
b. Shoulder and pelvis level: If the child walks with an obvious shoulder drop,
one should observe the level of the pelvis.
NOTE* If a child has an adducted gait and the patellar position is internally
rotated ("squinting patella") then at least a portion of the deformity is at the
femoral level. If the patellar position is normal, this indicates a problem within
the knee, tibia, or the foot
3. Off-weight-bearing examination:
a. Hip range of motion: External vs. internal rotation measured with the child
supine has about a 2:1 ratio for the first few years. The total ROM measures
more than 1000. Both the amount of external rotation and the total ROM
diminishes over the first few years and essentially becomes symmetrical at the
age of 5-6 through adulthood. This is measured with a Martin's goniometer
placed on the epicondyles of the femur. If a marked amount of internal hip
rotation is noted compared with external rotation, the examination should
include evaluation of motion with the hip extended and hip flexed positions
(determines whether structural vs. positional)
b. Knee range of motion: At birth through 4 years there may be a total of 20-30°
of transverse plane rotation available at the knee. This decreases drastically at
age 3-4. In a normal child under the age of 3 there should be a symmetrical
amount of internal and external rotation of the tibia relative to the femoral
segment. However, if there is 300 of external rotation available from a resting
position with minimal internal rotation this indicates that the tibia is being
maintained in an internally rotated position (congenitally short hamstring or
medial head of the gastrocnemius)
c. Tibial torsion: This is assessed by measuring malleolar position, by
determining the amount of anterior rotation of the tibial malleolus relative to
the fibular malleolus (measured by a goniometer placed on the malleolei or
tractograph placed on the plantar aspect of the foot). At birth there is no tibial
torsion present, however, this gradually increases in an external direction
through the first 7-8 years to a normal adult value of 13-18°. Tibial torsion is
generally 5° greater than malleolar position.
d. Ankle joint dorsiflexion: At birth there is unrestricted ankle joint dorsiflexion
(can approach 75°) , reduces to 20-25° by age 3, reduces to 15° by age 10, and
reduces to 10° by age 15. When obtaining this measurement the subtalar joint
is held in neutral position or the midtarsal joint will unlock thereby introducing
additional forefoot dorsiflexion. If dorsiflexion is limited with the knee extended,
retake the measurement with the knee flexed. If there is limited ankle
dorsiflexion with the knee extended but greater than 150 with the knee flexed,
the child has a gastrocnemius equinus. If the limitation is present with the
knee extended and flexed then a gastroc-soleus equinus is most likely
responsible (an osseous equinus is uncommon in this age group)
e. Subtalar joint range of motion: Since a child under the age of 3 has an
apropulsive gait, measurement of the STJ ROM is not essential. Only after the
age of 3 when a heel-toe propulsive gait is initiated, does a functional orthoses
become useful, and therefore so does the STJ measurement. Rangle of motion
is accomplished by bisecting the calcaneus and measuring full eversion and
inversion. This is generally more than the adult values. The foot must be
measured in a slight dorsiflexed position for accuracy.
f. Midtarsal joint range of motion: The STJ is placed in neutral position and the
MTJ is locked (in this fashion the 2 axes of the MTJ cross each other and limit
extraneous midtarsal joint mobility upon examination). A forefoot varus or
valgus deformity upon examination will not be outgrown, and any degree of
forefoot deformity should be supported to prevent abnormal compensation
4. Weight-bearing examination
a. Relaxed and neutral calcaneal stance position: The calcaneal bisector on
weight bearing should be noted. Abnormal calcaneal eversion in the child can
be due to compensated forefoot varus (frontal plane),
compensated gastrocnemius equinus (sagittal plane), and internal
tibial/femoral torsion (transverse plane).
b. Tibia varum: The angle that the distal one-third of the tibia makes relative to
the ground with the STJ in neutral position is tibial varum (generally 0-5° in
the child)
c. Genu varum/genu valgum, genu recurvatum: The child demonstrates
changes in frontal plane position at the genicular region at different ages . If
excessive genu varum is detected and does not reduce with time, the possibility
of Blount's disease or juvenile rickets should be investigated. If genu valgum is
noted and does not decrease with time, then functional orthoses should be
used to reverse the severe pronatory force to the feet. A posterior deflection of
the femur into the tibia may be present measuring 5-10° until the age of 5. If
any amount greater than this is present before the age of 5, or any amount
present at all after 5 should be checked for pathology
d. Limb length inequality: This is done by palpating the anterior superior iliac
spine, and measuring to the tip of the medial malleolus. Repeat measurement
2-3 times consecutively for consistency. If there is asymmetry in their levels,
further investigation is necessary
2. Calcaneovalgus deformity:
a. The assistant grasps the thigh and toes and then holds the hip, knee, and
foot in the anteroposterior plane with the foot in equinus
b. With the foot held in equinus, the metatarsal adducted, apply pressure in
three areas:
i. The posterior aspect of the heel
ii. Over the talus medially
iii. Laterally over the 5th metatarsal area
3. Metatarsus adductus:
a. Failure to appreciate the rearfoot malalignment (talocalcaneal breach on AP
x-ray) will result in failure of treatment and produce a severe flatfoot deformity
b. Pressure should be applied in three areas:
i. Pressure laterally over the cuboid area
ii. Counter pressure medially on the talar head (attempts to close down the T-C
angle)
iii. Pressure along the 1st metatarsal medially
iv. If the hallux is in adduction due to contraction of the abductor hallucis, a
strip of plaster is used to hold the hallux in a rectus or slightly abducted
position
4. Talipes equinovarus:
a. Apply 2-3 casts consecutively,, with the foot in "unlocked" equinus position
b. Apply three point pressure:
i. Evert the heel by pressure medially
ii. Lateral counter-pressure over the talar head in an attempt to open up the T-
C angle (to try to move the calcaneus laterally from beneath the talar head)
iii. Pressure along the 1st metatarsal medially
5. Tibial torsion:
a. The cast is applied from the toes to midthigh with the foot in mild equinus,
the knee flexed to at least 300
b. The corrective force is exerted by holding the thigh stable and rotating the
foot to the end range of motion (avoid inversion or eversion while doing this)
4. Quinolones with:
a. Multivalent cations (antacids): Effect is decreased effects of the quinolones,
mechanism is chelation binding decreases the GI absorption
b. Theophylline: Effect is increased theophylline toxicity, mechanism is
inhibition of hepatic metabolism of theophylline
c. Carafate: Effect is decreased effects of quinolones, mechanism is chelation
binding decreases GI absorption
d. Caffeine: Effect is increased effect of caffeine
5. Miscellaneous antibiotics:
a. Penicillins (ampicillin) with allopurinol: Effect is markedly increased rate of
ampicillin retention and induced skin rash, mechanism is unknown
b. Metronidazole with alcohol: Effect is a disulfiram-like reaction, mechanism is
metronidazole inhibits aldehyde dehydrogenase
2. Sulfonylureas with:
a. Alcohol: Effect is hypoglycemia and disulfiram-like reactions, mechanism is
decrease elimination and altered metabolism involving aldehyde dehydrogenase
b. Anticoagulants: Effect is hypoglycemia, mechanism is inhibition of hepatic
metabolism of sulfonylureas
c. MAO inhibitors: Effect is hypoglycemia, mechanism is unknown
d. NSAIDS: Effect is hypoglycemia, mechanism is protein binding displacement
e. Sulfinpyrazone: Effect is hypoglycemia, mechanism is inhibition of hepatic
metabolysm of sulfonylureas
f. Thiazide diuretics: Effect is hyperglycemia, mechanism is thiazide diuretics
decrease insulin secretion
2. Lithium with:
a. Iodide salts: Effect is hypothyroidism or goiter, mechanism is pharmacologic
synergism
b. Thiazide diuretics: Effect is increased lithium toxicity, mechanism is
decreased lithium renal clearance
c. NSAIDS: Effect is increased lithium toxicity, mechanism is decreased lithium
renal clearance
3. Phenothiazines with:
a. Meperidine: Effect is excessive hypotension and sedation, mechanism is
pharmacologic synergism
b. Anticholinergics: Effect is decreased effect of phenothiazines, mechanism is
accelerated metabolism of phenothiazines
2. Digoxin with:
a. Diuretics: Effect is electrolyte disturbances predispose to digitalis-induced
arrhythmias, mechanism is increased loss of potassium affects cardiac muscle
action
b. Verapamil: Effect is increased digoxin toxicity, mechanism is additive effects
c. Erythromycin: Effect is increased digoxin toxicity in about 10% of patients,
mechanism is in about 10% of patients, digoxin is metabolized by GI bacteria
d. Tetracycline: Effect is the same as above, mechanism is the same as above
e. Quinidine: Effect is increased digoxin toxicity, mechanism is reduced renal
and biliary clearance of digoxin
f. Quinine: Effect is same as above, mechanism is same as above
4. Spironolactone with:
a. Salicylates: Effect is blockage of spironolactone-induced diuresis, mechanism
is blockage of the renal tubular secretion
b. Acceleration of metabolism:
i. Phenobarbital accelerates the metabolism of coumadin, anticoagulants,
steroids, and griseofulvin.
Drugs
1. Topical antibacterials:
a. Muprocyn (Bactroban®): Effective against gram (+) cocci
b. Iodochloroquine (1 % cream/ointment): Effective against gram (+) and (-)
organisms
c. Gentamycin (Garamycin®): An aminoglycoside effective against gram (+) and
(-) organisms
d. Chloramphenicol (Chloromycetin®): Effective against gram (+) and gram (-)
organisms. Blood dyscrasias have been reported
2. Topical antiseptics:
a. Povidone-lodine (Betadine): Antibacterial and antifungal scrub
b. Chlorhexidine (Hibiclens: Antibacterial and antifungal, and nonallergenic
c. Hexachlorophene (Phisohex: Antibacterial and antifungal, a neurotoxin
(especially in infants)
d. Benzalkonium Cl (Zephiran Chloride®): A quaternary ammonium compound.
Antifungal and antibacterial depending on the concentration
e. Dakin's Solution (sodium hypochlorite): Active ingredient of commercial
liquid bleaches
5. Adrenocorticosterolds:
a. Control mechanism: Corticotropin (ACTH) released from the anterior
pituitary stimulates the adrenal cortex to secrete glucocorticoids (cortisol) and
other corticosteroids. The release of ACTH is affected by corticotropin releasing
factor (CRF) from the hypothalamus. ACTH and CRF are subject to negative
feedback inhibition by cortisol/glucocorticoids. ACTH is at its highest level in
the early morning
b. Actions/Side effects of glucorticoids: Any dose of glucocorticoids may exert a
physiologic (replacement) or pharmacologic (anti-inflammatory,
immunosuppressive) effect. Adverse effects can result from too rapid
withdrawal, manifesting as acute renal insufficiency. Glucocorticoids inhibit the
early and the late phases of the inflammatory response. The physiologic
antagonism of histamine, prostaglandin, and kinin-induced vasodilation
occurs. There is an inhibition of prostaglandin and leukotriene synthesis. Also,
leukocyte adherence, chemotaxis, and bacteriocidal/fungicidal activities are
reduced. An inhibition of interleukin1 and T-cell lymphokine release occurs:
i. Hepatic gluconeogenesis/glycogen deposition
ii. Suppression of the HPA axis (after 5-7 days of high dose therapy)
iii. Decrease resistance to infection (signs of infection may be masked)
iv. Possibility of perforation in patients with peptic ulceration or
inflammatory bowel -disease
v. Myopathy: characterized by weakness of proximal muscles of the arms and
legs (tendon rupture)
vi. Osteoporosis (postmenopausal females are at greatest risk), fractures,
aseptic necrosis of the femoral head
vii. Fluid and electrolyte imbalances (sodium and water retention, hypokalemia)
viii. May increase blood pressure and exacerbate K+ sensitive arrhythmias
ix. Exacerbation of diabetes mellitus
x. Impaired wound healing and skin fragility
xi. Increased frequency of subcapsular cataracts or glaucoma
xii. With high doses, psychologic disturbances (steroid psychosis) may
occur
c. Agents:
i. Short-acting:
Betamethasone sodium phosphate: Celestone®,
Dexamethasone sodium phosphate: Decadron®, Hexadrol®
ii. Long-acting:
Hydrocortisone:
Dexamethasone acetate: Decadron-LA®
Triamcinolone acetonide: Kenalog®
Methylprednisolone acetate: Depo-Medrol®
iii. Mixtures:
Betamethasone acetate and phosphate: Celestone Soluspan®
NOTE* In diabetics using probenecid, a false positive test may result for
urinary glucose using Clinitest® reagents may be observed
7. NSAIDs:
a. Actions:
i. Analgesia
ii. Anti-inflammatory
iii. Antipyresis
iv. Gastric symptoms
v. Inhibition of platelet aggregation (reversible)
vi. Exacerbation of symptoms of aspirin-intolerant patients
vii. Other: CNS symptoms, hepatic injury with elevation of serum
transaminase, cutaneous reactions
b. Indications:
i. Arthritis
ii. Tendonitis
iii. Soft-tissue inflammation
iv. Mild to moderate pain
c. Groups:
i. Salicylates:
Diflunisal (Dolobid®)
ii. Propionic acids:
Ibuprofen (Motrin®)
iii. Acetates:
Naproxen (Naprosyn®/Anaprox®)
Fenoprofen (Nalfon®)
Ketoprofen (Orudis®)
Etodolac (Lodine®)
Flurbiprofen (Ansaid®)
iv. Pyrole acetic acids:
Indomethacin Indocin®)
Sulindac (Clinoril®)
Tolmetin (Tolectin®)
Nabumetone (Relafen®)
v. Oxicams:
Piroxicam (Feldene®)
vi. Phenylacetic acids
iclofenac (Voltaren®)
vii. Pyrazoles:
Phenylbutazone (Butazolidin®)
viii. Fenamates:
Meclofenamic acid (Meclomen®)
8. Laxatives/Antidiarrheals:
a. Laxatives: Are used for the treatment of constipation secondary to the use of
opiate analgesics for postoperative pain relief. Are classified by differences in
mechanism (active or passive), intensity of effect, and time to the onset of action
i. Passive (24-72 hours): Metamucil®, Colace®, Chronulac®
ii. Active (6-8 hours): Ex-lax®, Senokot®, Dulcolax®
iii. Saline cathartics (30 minutes-3 hours): Magnesium citrate, Milk of
Magnesia®)
iv. Suppositories (15 minutes-1 hour): Glycerin, Dulcolax
b. Antidiarrheals should not be used for the treatment of acute diarrhea
associated with broad-spectrum antibiotics because of possible exacerbation of
pseudomembranous colitis
i. Passive (non-opiate): Kaopectate®, Pepto-Bismol®
ii. Opiates and others (decrease GI motility): Lomotil®, Imodium®
9. Muscle relaxants: Decrease skeletal muscle tone for use in acute muscle
spasms. Can be used after muscle or tendon transfer. All agents cause a degree
of sedation or CNS dysfunction. Most agents are combined with acetominophen
or aspirin
a. Centrally acting agents:
i. Metaxalone (Skelaxin®): contraindicated in patients prone to hemolytic
anemia
ii. Carisoprodol (Soma®): Contraindicated in acute intermittent porphyria
iii. Cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril®): Contraindicated in patients who have cardiac
pathologies or those receiving MAO inhibitors
iv. Orphenadrine (Norflex®): Contraindicated in glaucoma or prostatic
hypertrophy
v. Chlorzoxazone (Paraflex®)
11. Opioid analgesics and antagonists: Opioid analgesics exert their actions
by combining with one or more subtypes of opioid receptors within the CNS,
peripheral nervous system, or smooth muscles. The receptors designated mu,
kappa, or sigma are the most significant. Opioid analgesics are classified into 3
groups based on the action at these receptors
12. Morphine/Morphine-like agents/Antagonists: Morphine exerts its
actions largely through agonistic behavior at the mu and kappa receptors
a. Actions:
i. Analgesic response characterized by a reduction in the sensory intensity and
the emotional response to pain
ii. Sedation and euphoria (behavioral)
iii. Depression of autonomic reflexes yields respiratory depression,
pupillary constriction, suppression of cough reflex, orthostatic hypotension
iv. Peripheral effects: constipation, increased urethral tone, weak
bronchoconstriction
b. Precautions:
i. Contraindicated in diarrhea characterized by pseudomembrane formation
ii. Use cautiously in patients with bronchial asthma, chronic obstructive
pulmonary disease or cor pulmonary
c. Drug interactions:
i. May potentially affect other CNS depressants
ii. May cause toxic reactions in patients receiving MAO inhibitors
d. Agonists-Antagonists:
i. Agonists: Dependence/abuse are less with these, and withdrawal symptoms
are less than with morphine-like drugs
ii. Antagonists (Naloxone/Narcan®): this antagonizes the mu, kappa, and sigma
receptors, thereby preventing or reversing opiate-induced respiratory
depression, sedation, hypotension and psychomimetic effects of sigma agonists
such as pentazocine. Should be used to achieve complete or partial reversal of
opiate induced CNS depression and can be used to diagnose suspected opioid
overdose
15. Antihistamines: Nearly all mammalian tissue contain histamine, with the
highest concentration found in the lungs, skin, and stomach. Histamine is also
stored in the mast cells and in circulating basophils where it is released by
antigenic stimuli or indirectly by organic bases. Responses to stimuli are
mediated by 2 distinct populations called H1 and H2. Antihistamines are H1-
receptor antagonists
a. Actions:
i. Reduce prominent vasodilation, vasodilation, increased microvascular
permeability, and bronchoconstriction caused by histamine
ii. Variable anticholinergic, antipruritic, sedative, and antiemetic effects
iii. Since related to local anesthetics, demonstrate local anesthetic
activity
b. Indications:
I. Adjunct in the treatment of pruritus and allergic reactions ii. Nocturnal leg
cramps
iii. As local anesthesia in patients allergic to amides and ester-linked
compounds
iv. Perioperative medication
2. Biomechanical alterations:
a. The subtalar joint is pronated
b. The midtarsal joint becomes unstable and unlocked: this is because the STJ
is in a pronated position with the calcaneus everted, the T-N joint and the C-C
joint become divergent from each other, their axes become more parallel. This
allows for independent range of motion of each of these joints and increases the
range of motion of the MTJ itself. The pronated STJ allows for compromised
function of the peroneus longus and tibialis posterior muscles.
This results in loss of osseous stability as the heel comes off the ground. The
reactive force of gravity produces a dorsiflexory force on the forefoot. The
following are the changes to the foot:
i. Arch fatigue
ii. Hypermobile first metatarsal
iii. Subluxation of the first ray
iv. Contraction of the digits
v. A medial distribution of body weight when the calcaneus everts beyond 4-5°
of eversion.
vi. Collapse of the MTJ
vii. The axis of the STJ in the normal patient is approx. 42° from the transverse
plane 16° from the sagittal plane. Any change in this will result in changes to
motion on the various planes. In clinically examining each patient, it may be
necessary to estimate the primary plane of motion of the STJ to predict the
ability (biomechanically or surgically) to control the STJ. In examining the ROM
of the joints of the foot, the predominant axis of motion can be estimated.
NOTE* IF frontal plane motion (inversion/eversion) is predominant the joint
axis will be more horizontal. If transverse plane motion
(abduction/adduction) is more predominant, the joint axis is more vertical. If
sagittal plane motion (dorsiflexion/plantarflexion) is more predominant, the
axis will lie closer to the frontal and horizontal planes.
3. Radiographic Alterations:
a. If transverse plane dominance:
i. Increase in the dorsoplantar T-C angle
ii. Increase in the cuboid abduction angle
iii. Decrease in the percentage of T-N congruency
b. If frontal plane dominance:
i. Widening of the lesser tarsus on dorsoplantar view
ii. Decrease of the first metatarsal declination angle
iii. Decrease in the height of the sustentaculum tall
c. If sagittal plane dominance:
i. Increase in the talar declination angle
ii. Naviculocuneiform breach
iii. Increased T-C angle on the lateral view
iv. Decreased calcaneal inclination angle
d. The stress dorsiflexion lateral view (charger view) is used to determine osseus
blocks of the ankle joint.
e. Harris-Beath views are helpful in determining T-C coalitions (taken from
posterior and superior with the x-ray beam at 35°, 40°, and 45° to the
perpendicular).
Note* Procedures that are effective for flexible flatfoot are usually ineffective for
rigid flatfoot, and the foot with bony adaptation secondary to forefoot
varus/supinatus also requires a different approach
b. Determine the planar dominance: because the foot that presents a high
degree of transverse plane motion is extremely difficult to control nonsurgically.
c. Surgery must be avoided in the normal low arched foot (pes planus), which
must be distinguished from the collapsing pes planovalgus deformity as we are
describing.
d. Consider the age of the patient and the percentage of bone growth remaining.
e. Consider the presence of other related medical conditions
f. Consider the presence of other superstructural deforming forces (tibial
torsion)
g. Other surgical criteria for flexible flatfoot:
i. Symptoms are resistant to conservative therapy
ii. The unstable foot is not controllable by mechanical devices
iii. Secondary changes are present or can be definitely predicted
h. Goals of surgery:
i. Relief of pain
ii. Biomechanical control of excessive pronation
iii. Prevention of progression of the deformity
b. T-N arthrodesis:
i. Generally used in combination with other procedures (TAL, calcaneal
osteotomies, medial column tendon balancing
ii. Blocks all MTJ motion and almost all STJ motion
iii. When the T-N joint is wedged the procedure can reduce some
forefoot varus deformity, and can be combined with an Evans calcaneal
osteotomy.
iv. Most useful in degenerative joint changes/severe collapse at the T-N joint,
part of a repair of a ruptured tibialis posterior, and paralytic deformity.
c. Miller procedure:
i. Lengthening of the tendo achilles
ii. Raising an osteoperiosteal flap left in place proximally, along the
medial arch (this includes the spring ligament and tibialis posterior tendon
insertion) and reattaches in an advanced position.
iii. Arthrodesis of the navicular-medial cuneiform joint
iv. Arthrodesis of the 1st metatarsal-medial cuneiform joint
d. Osteotomies of the talus:
i. Stokes:
ii. Perthes: closing wedge at the talar neck
e. Osteotomies of the medial cuneiform:
i. Anderson and Fowler: plantar flexory wedge in conjunction with an Evans
calcaneal osteotomy.
ii. Cotton: opening wedge to produce plantarflexion of the medial column
b. Anterior:
i. Evans (refined by Ganley): good when the forefoot abducts severely when the
STJ is in neutral. This procedure is contraindicated in neurological disorders
that may generate spasticity and varus due to functional overcorrection. The
rationale for this procedure is that as the lateral column is lengthened, the
entire forefoot is forced to pivot around the head of the talus, effectively
adducting the forefoot and tightening the structures of the arch
Due to scarring the incision has been changed, to one parallel to the skin
tension lines in an oblique/transverse fashion on the lateral side of the foot
over the C-C joint (avoid the sural nerve inferiorly and the intermediate
dorsal cutaneous nerve superiorly; they are found at the extreme poles of the
incision)
The peroneals are retracted inferiorly
Reflection of the EDB ms. dorsally while preserving the dorsal
calcaneocuboid ligament
NOTE* This ligament is critical in limiting the dorsal shift of the anterior beak of
the calcaneus
Osteotomy of the calcaneus parallel and 1.5 cm proximal to the C-C joint
from lateral to medial
insertion of tibial bone graft or bone bank iliac crest, which is tapped into
position, and any void filled with bone chips
Suture the EDB back into place: impossible to achieve good closure of this
muscle layer
Note* This procedure straightens the lateral column with reduction of heel
valgus. In most cases it is still necessary to reduce the amount of forefoot
varus and stabilize the medial column by doing a T-N fusion, wedge osteotomy
of the cuneiform, naviculocuneiform fusion, or medial arch tenosuspension
(predominant)
Note* One of the most difficult pes planovalgus foot types to treat is one with a
vertical STJ axis. This foot compensates for deforming forces mainly in the
transverse plane. This foot is recalcitrant to mechanical control and medial
column procedures. Lateral column lengthening procedures are indicated
(Evans procedure)
Note* Posterior calcaneal osteotomies are most useful in the least prevalent
type of pes planovalgus, where there is frontal plane dominance. These
osteotomies are most useful in conjunction with medial column procedures
v. Additional procedures:
Sullivan (a dorsal anterior sliding osteotomy of the posterior aspect of the
calcaneus to treat equinus)
Moeller (triplane closing wedge osteotomy of the lateral cortex, for cavus foot)
Keck and Kelly (dorsal closing wedge osteotomy just anterior to the achilles;
it will decrease the inclination angle and remove pressure from a Haglund's
deformity)
Reinhart (for pes cavus deformity where a through and through osteotomy is
done)
8. Ancillary Procedures:
a. Tendo Achilles lengthening: is indicated in almost all of the above flatfoot
procedures
1. Arthrodesis:
a. Grice Green (EASTA: extra-articular subtalar joint arthrodesis): This
procedure allows you to fuse the STJ without disturbing growth.
i. Indications
Paralytic instability and equinovalgus
Peroneal spastic flatfoot
Unresectable tarsal coalitions
Age bracket 3-14 years old
ii. Contraindications
Ankle valgus flatfoot
iii. Procedure
Use corticocancellous graft placed at 900 to the STJ axis
2. Arthroereisis:
a. Indications
i. To see if a patient needs an arthroereisis: have the patient stand on the toes,
the heel must supinate
ii. Age is 4-8 years
iii. Cavovalgus foot
iv. A foot that has been unresponsive to treatment for 2 years
v. Eversion of the heel at least 8°
vi. Predominant frontal plane deformity
vii. Flexible forefoot varus deformity above 10°
b. Contraindications
i. Rigid flatfoot
ii. Significant arthritis/trackbound tarsal joints
iii. Ankle valgus
iv Equinus (must be released)
v. Skewfoot
vi. Torsional problems
vii. Frontal plane knee deformity
c. 3 types
i. Self-locking wedge
Viladot
Valenti
Addante
Valgus stop
ii. Axis altering (not for adults): elevates a low STJ axis
STA-peg
iii. Direct impact (can be used for all ages)
Sgarlato
Pisani
d. Anatomical placement
i. Sinus tarsi
Valgus stop
STA-peg
Sgarlato
ii. Canalis tarsi
Valenti
Viladot
e. Postoperative care
i. Cast for 2 weeks
ii. Orthoses and high top sneakers for 1 year
f. Complications
i. Extrusion of the implant
ii. Fracture of the implant
iii. Fracture of the calcaneus
iv. Improper placement of the implant
v. Over/undercorrection
vi. Infection
vii. Erosion of the bone-implant interface
Metatarsus Adductus
1. Indications
a. Failure to respond to conservative treatment
b. Residual deformity after treatment of talipes equinovarus
c. Newly diagnosed metatarsus adductus deformity
4. Osseous Surgery:
a. Modified Berman-Gartland procedure:
i. Indications
Met. adductus in the child older than 6-8 years old
Residual deformity following treatment of talipes equinovarus
ii. Procedure
3 dorsal longitudinal incisions
Transverse or oblique-type closing abductory wedge osteotomy of the 1st
metatarsal
Similar type of osteotomies of the lesser metatarsals with the cortical hinge
medially
Fixation of osteotomies with SS wire, K-wires, staples, AO screws or
combinations
iii. Precautions
Avoid damage to growth plate of 1st metatarsal
Meticulous subperiosteal dissection is critical to avoid heavy callus
formation and undesirable synostosis between adjacent metatarsals
Preservation of the medial cortical hinge is important to insure stability
Careful planning to avoid over/undercorrection
iv. Postoperative care
Non-weightbearing cast immobilization 6-8 weeks
Convert the cast to posterior splint and start PT
Orthotics when patient resumes weightbearing
Serial x-rays to assess bone healing at 6 weeks, 12 weeks, 24 weeks and 1
year
v. Complications
Over/undercorrection
Delayed union/nonunion/pseudoarthrosis
Fracture of cortical hinge
Damage to growth plate
Elevatus of metatarsals
latrogenically induced flatfoot deformity
b. Lepird procedure:
i. Indications
Met. adductus in the child greater than 6-8 years old
Residual talipes equinovarus deformity
ii. Procedure
3 dorsal longitudinal incisions
Oblique closing-abductory wedge osteotomy (Juvara type) of the 1st
metatarsal with AO/ASIF screw fixation
Rotational osteotomy of each lesser metatarsal with AO/ASIF screw fixation
(2.7 mm cortical used mostly) perpendicular to the plane of the osteotomy
An oblique closing wedge osteotomy may be used on the 5th metatarsal in
place of the rotational type (if preferred)
Rotational osteotomies are performed from dorsal-distal to plantarproximal
with temporary preservation of the cortical hinge (facilitates fixation). The
osteotomy is approximately 45° from the weightbearing surface. The precise
angle will depend on the declination of the metatarsal segment. As the
declination of the metatarsal increases, the osteotomy will be more parallel
to the weightbearing surface of the foot
Area of the cortical hinge preserved is most commonly proximal/plantar
The screws are then removed and the osteotomy is completed
The screws are reinserted, the distal fragments are rotated laterally, and the
screws are tightened
The alignment of the foot is assessed; if realignment is necessary the
screw(s) can be loosened and the bone adjusted
iii. Postoperative care
Same as Berman-Gartland
iv. Complications
Same as Berman-Gartland
if the osteotomy is performed too vertically the rotation of the osteotomy will
be around the longitudinal axis of the metatarsal bone itself, resulting in
inversion/eversion of the bone itself
v. Advantages
This procedure is amenable to rigid internal fixation and primary bone
healing
Over/undercorrection can be corrected during surgery
Biplanar correction can be achieved
Eliminates pin tract infections
5. Ancillary Procedures:
a. Equinus Deformity
i. TAL
ii. Gastrocnemius recession
b. Flatfoot Deformity:
i. STJ arthroereisis
ii. Evans calcaneal osteotomy
iii. Modified Young's tenosuspension/ Modified Kidner procedure
iv. T-N joint arthrodesis/ N-C arthrodesis
2. Etiology:
a. Neuromuscular: 66%
3. Classification:
a. Flexible deformity (mild): Non-weight bearing, contracted digits, high arch
and varus deformity of the heel may be noticed. With loading, digits appear
normal, arch is flattened and heel may go into valgus. Minimal clinical
symptoms at this point
b. Semi-rigid deformity (moderate): Weight-bearing does not completely reduce
the contracture of the digits, arch appears higher and heel is in more varus
attitude. Soft tissue contractures and bony adaptation begin to take place.
Symptoms are more prominent.
c. Rigid deformity (severe): Joint motion is limited. The foot is similar in
appearance both weight/non-weight bearing. Digits are contracted dorsally and
painful keratomas are present. Difficult to fit shoes.
d. Progression of deformity: Often progresses from flexible to rigid as the patient
gets older.
5. Associated Conditions:
a. Forefoot varus
b. Forefoot valgus
c. Plantarflexed 1st ray
d. Metatarsus adductus
e. Rearfoot pseudoequinus
f. Rearfoot varus
7. Preoperative Evaluation:
a. Neurology consult
b. Spinal x-rays
c. EMG's and nerve conduction studies
d. X-rays of the foot (lateral)
i. Calcaneal inclination angle > 30°
ii. Talar-1st metatarsal angle > 6° (Meary's angle)
iii. Increased pitch of the 5th metatarsal
iv. Note apex of the deformity
v. Cyma line broken posteriorly (can be normal)
vi. Sinus tarsi is clear and accentuated
vii. Coalition views should be used to assess the subtalar joint
viii. An axial view of the calcaneal angle should be taken to rule out a structural
varus
8. Pathogenesis:
a. With weak tibialis anterior the long extensors substitute for ankle
dorsiflexion, causing hyperextension of the MPJ's and retrograde pressure on
the metatarsal heads (extensor substitution)
b. Weak peroneus brevis and strong posterior tibial ms. will create a varus heel
c. Paralysis of intrinsics causes the development of clawtoes
d. Weak gastrocnemius causes flexor substitution which causes clawtoes.
9. Surgery: Soft tissue
a. Plantar release
i. Subcutaneous fasciotomy
ii. Steindler stripping: through a medial incision the abductor hallucis, -flexor
digitorum brevis, and the abductor digiti quinti are stripped from the
periosteum of the calcaneus. The plantar fascia is released and the long plantar
ligament is released.
iii. Tachdjian: describes a plantar medial approach used with a fixed anterior
cavus. Includes releasing the long/short plantar ligaments, spring ligament
(calcaneonavicular), the calcaneonavicular portion of the bifurcate ligament,
and the plantar fascia. Lengthening of the long flexors and the tibialis posterior
is performed if on intraoperative reduction of the cavus foot bow-stringing of
these tendons is noted
iv. Complications:
Plantar fasciitis
Forefoot may become splayed
b. Tendon transfers (give best results when the patient is > 10 years old)
i. Jones suspension: transfer of the extensor digitorum longus to the
neck of the 1st metatarsal with i.p.j. fusion
Complications:
Transfer lesion to the 2nd metatarsal if 1st ray is raised too high
Hallux limitus
Tendon may not hold the correction
Failure of the fusion site
ii. Heyman procedure: transfer of all five extensor tendons to their
respective metatarsal heads.
Complications:
Clawtoes may result
Tendonitis of the EDL
Tendons may not hold the correction
Same as Jones complications
iii. Hibbs procedure (modified): transfer of the long extensors to the
second and third cuneiform, a Jones transfer of the EHL, anastomosis of
the distal stumps of the long extensors to the EDB tendons. This procedure
helps load the midtarsal joint in dorsiflexion.
Note* Although the Hibbs procedure is a classic procedure described for the
correction of anterior cavus, it should not be performed for pes cavus, because
it fails to provide the dynamic force necessary to elevate the metatarsal heads
iv. Split tibialis anterior tendon transfer (STATT): the lateral half of the
tibialis anterior tendon is sectioned and anastomosed to the peroneus tertius
tendon near its insertion into the base of the 5th metatarsal.
v. Peroneus longus tendon transfer
vi. Tibialis posterior tendon transfer
Note* The Dunn and Hoke procedures are useful when posterior displacement
of the calcaneus beneath the talus is needed
2. Etiology:
a. Unknown- but many theories (see Chapter: Pediatrics)
3. Anatomical Presentation:
a. The talus is supinated over the top of the distal calcaneus so that the
calcaneus is plantarflexed and inverted
b. Master Knot of Henry is the deforming force on the medial side of the foot. It
is the fibrous junction of the FHL/FDL sheaths to the navicular and fascia of
the FHB. It must be severed to allow the navicular to re-establish itself laterally
with the calcaneus
c. The talus is usually deformed: the head and neck are medially displaced and
downward (this is consistent in rigid clubfoot)
d. The T-N joint is subluxed with the navicular medially
e. Posterior medial structures are tight along with the STJ tissues
f. Cuboid is displaced inwardly along with the navicular at the M-T joint and
the anterior calcaneus following to go down and under the talar head
g. The anterior surface of the calcaneus faces more medially, so the lateral
column must be corrected to give a rectus foot
h. Two accessory joints are regularly found
i. The navicular rests on the anterior portion of the medial malleolus
ii. The posterior-lateral calcaneus rests on the posterior fibular malleolus
i. The tendo achilles is slightly medial on the calcaneus
j. The most consistent bony deformity is at the talar neck. It is short and
medially deviated
k. Arteriography:
i. PT artery is most prominent (so must protect during surgery)
ii. Deep plantar arch is supplied primarily by the PT not the DP (as in the
normal foot)
iii. A majority of the TEV feet develop without the DP artery
l. The calcaneofibular and posterior talofibular ligaments are tight due to the
equinus position
m. The medial submalleolar skin is contracted and heals poorly
4. Pre-operative Evaluation:
a. Angle of Kite (normal= 20-40°) approaches 00
b. A-P view shows talar bisection lateral to 1 st metatarsal
c. If foot has marked forefoot adductus, corrective surgery is indicated for this
d. Flat-top talus may be present due to aggressive conservative treatment,
which may later produce osteochondral fracture and later arthritis
e. Preoperative vascular assessment is important to determine the amount of
correction able to be done: the limiting factor to any correction is the stress
placed on the medial soft tissue and the neurovascular bundle
f. Make sure the preoperative x-ray is taken with the knee/leg/foot vertical and
not abducted
g. A lateral stress dorsiflexion view is the most accurate judge of a clubfoot
correction
h. The long axis of the talus is directed downward toward the 3rd met instead of
medial to the 1st metatarsal as in the normal foot
i. Should consider a plantar release in children older than 6 due to cavus
deformity that progresses from accommodation contractures of the plantar
fascia, abductor hallucis, intrinsic toe flexors, and abductor digiti minimi
j. Talus is too far forward in the mortise, therefore, increased equinus and
decreased dorsiflexion
k. Tibia shows increased lateral torsion
l. Ossification centers usually appear later in the clubfoot
m. Parallel talus and calcaneus
n. No overlap of the anterior ends of the talus and calcaneus
o. In the normal foot the T-C angle increases with dorsiflexion, but with the
clubfoot this angle does not change
p. If surgery is delayed till after the age of 10, many adaptive changes will have
taken place, and a triple arthrodesis may be the procedure of choice
5. General Symptoms:
a. Lateral callosities
b. Tiring easily
c. Thin calf ms. on the affected side
d. Smaller foot
e. Small 1st metatarsal with larger 4th and 5th metatarsals
f. Limb length difference with adaptive scoliosis
g. Hyperextended knees
h. Metatarsus adductus
i. No wrinkles over the achilles insertion (this helps diagnosis idiopathic from
non-idiopathic as so if wrinkles are present the foot did have
plantar/dorsiflexion at one time indicating a non-idiopathic clubfoot)
j. Genu valgum
k. External rotation of the leg
vi. Medial release now tries to reposition medially displaced navicular laterally
onto the talar head
viii. Subtalar release allows the anterior calcaneus to move lateral-dorsal so the
talus may reposition to a more appropriate pronated position
Evert the heel and intersect the interosseous talocalcaneal ligament
May need to sever the bifurcate ligament to help reposition the talus and
calcaneus
ix. After all soft tissue releases and the foot is corrected, the T-N and T-C joints
should be stabilized with K-wires
x. Resected tendons should now be repaired except the posterior tibial
xi. Skin closure: may need skin graft in the severely deformed foot or overly
corrected foot
xii. If metatarsus adductus present now do HHS procedure
Note* Turco states that best results are obtained when:
a. the child is 1-2 years old
b. Good results decrease with age
c. Good results if the child is walking due to Wolfs Law to help bone remodel
d. Previous surgery is a hindrance
9. Postoperative Evaluation:
a. Calcaneus is rotated out of plantarflexion to dorsiflexion
b. Posterior tubercle moves down when the anterior process moves up and
laterally away from under the talus
c. T-C angle now approx. 400 (lateral x-ray) and 250 on A-P view
d. Intraoperative lateral should shoe dorsiflexion of the calcaneus, overlap of
the talus on the anterior calcaneus if correction achieved
11. Complications:
a. Rocker bottom foot if conservative treatment of equinus is corrected before
the varus component or if the internal fixation is removed too soon
b. Flap/skin necrosis
c. Inability to close the skin after reduction
d. Damage to growth plates
e. Relapse of the deformity
f. Loss of the longitudinal arch
g. Stiffness
h. Hammertoe deformities
i. Skewfoot can develop secondary to a valgus correction of the forefoot
Abnormalities of Alignment
1. Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome: A group of inherited connective tissue disorders
resulting in hyperelasticity of the skin and fragility of blood vessels.
Ligamentous and capsular laxity as well as muscular weakness lead to
subluxation and dislocation. In the feet pes planus is very common. Atrophic
scarring occurs: There are 9 subtypes. Types I, II, and III are the most common,
and are autosomal dominant types.
Osteopenia
1. Rickets and Osteomalacia: Due to deficient mineralization of bone
specifically due to insufficient vitamin D from malabsorption, renal disease,
lack of adequate sunlight, liver disease, and metabolic disorders. In the child
this can cause widening of the growth plate, cupping of the epiphyses, and
bowing of the legs. The pathognomonic sign of osteomalacia is the presence of
Looser's lines or pseudofractures. These lucent lines are perpendicular to the
cortex, are often bilateral and symmetrical.
2. Storage Diseases:
i. Glycogen storage diseases (Von Gierke's disease)
ii. Cerebrosides (Gaucher's disease and Niemann-Pick disease)
iii. Mucopolysaccharides (Hurler's, Hunter's, Sanfiiippo's. Morquio's,
Scheie's, and Maroteaux-Lamy syndromes)
3. Fibro-Osseous Dysplasia:
i. Fibrous dysplasia: A developmental anomaly that results in fibrous tissue
replacement of the marrow cavity
4. Granulomatous Diseases:
i. Sarcoidosis: a systemic granulomatous disease of unknown etiology that can
affect the bones in a small percentage of cases, and when involved, almost
always is seen in the phalanges causing small punched-out defects. Severe
involvement may result in cortical destruction, fractures, and collapse of bone,
giving an arthritis mutilans scenario.
ii. Tuberculosis: Granulomatous disease due to hematogenous spread of the
TB bacillus. Acid fast stains show TB bacilli, which are not seen in Sarcoid.
The Dysplasias
Dysplasia is a disturbance in the formation and modeling of bone; it is
usually hereditary and most commonly occurs as a result of inborn errors in
metabolism. Foot dysplasias are an expression of a generalized skeletal
anomaly.
1. Spondyloepiphyseal Dysplasia (Morquio-Brailsford disease)
2. Multiple Epiphyseal Displasia (Fairbank's disease)
3. Chondrodysplasia punctata (Conradi's disease)
Occurence of Polydactyly
a. Arthrogryphosis
b. Basal cell nevus syndrome
c. Cleidocranial dyostosis
d. Ellis-van Crevald syndrome
e. Gorlin-Chaudhry-Moss syndrome
f. Larsen's syndrome
g. Myositis ossificans progressiva
h. Rubenstein-Taybi syndrome
i. Trisomy 13-15 (Perth's syndrome)
Occurence of Syndactyly
a. Normal variant
b. Apert's syndrome
c. Carpenter's syndrome
d. Bloom's syndrome
e. Down's syndrome
f. F syndrome
g. Laurence-Moon-Biedl syndrome
h. Taybi's syndrome
i. Popliteal pterygium syndrome
j. Prader-Willi syndrome
k. Silver's syndrome
l. Trisomy 13
1. Dorsoplantar Projection: X-ray tube angled 15° from vertical and aimed at
the lateral aspect of the navicular.
6. Axial Sesamoidal Projection: Good for examining the plantar aspect of the
sesamoids and their relationship with the 1st metatarsal head.
9. Ankle Mortise Projection: The ankle is internally rotated 15° with the xray
tube at 90° from vertical. Good for evaluating the joint space. The view for
measuring the angles of the ankle (see Anatomic Angles below).
10. Lateral & Oblique Projections of the Ankle: Used in looking for the effects
from trauma.
12. Anterior Drawer Projection: Is taken following trauma to the ankle joint,
with a distraction force placed on the forefoot. (looking for an anterior excursion
of the talus out of the mortise). If the excursion is greater than 4 mm. as
compared to the opposite side, then disruption of the anterior talofibular
ligament is assumed.
13. Stress Dorsiflexion Projection: Can be useful for the evaluation of talipes
equinovarus (measure the T-C angle).
15. Broden Projections: For examination of the STJ (Broden #1 examines the
posterior facet & Broden #2 examines the sinus tarsi). Consists of 4 views with
the beam angled at 10°, 20°, 30°, and 40° while centering the x-ray tube on a
point 2 cm anterior and distal to the tip of the lateral malleolus. Has generally
been replaced by tomography and CT.
16. Anthansen Projections: To view the medial and posterior facet of the STJ.
Osteomyelitis
NOTE* Bone has
scans are intense
a good and focal
indicator if the uptake in all 3 phases
Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy
patient will be responsive to treatment
3. 111 Indium White Cell Scanning (Indium is just the label): This scan is
much more specific for infection (especially acute infections) and involves
predomininantly granulocytes. With this scan, the patient's white blood cells
are labeled with the tracer and injected intravenously. This technique was
developed to detect leukocyte accumulation at sites of inflammation and
abscess formation. Scans are performed 24 hours after injection. A positive
scan is defined as a focal accumulation of leukocytes that is higher than the
surrounding bone activity. This technique is reserved for complicated post-
traumatic or post-surgical patients with equivocal conventional bone scans, in
cases where 99mTc MDP scanning reveals false positive results because of rapid
turnover. Therefore, it may be more accurate in detecting acute infections. VIII.
Limitations of Scans: Some patients show multiple hot spots at an early stage
of S. aureus septicemia but do not progress to OM. You can have a negative
scan with a confirmed OM due to impaired blood supply (false-negative). You
can have difficulty in differentiating OM from cellulitis. You can have difficulty
in differentiating normal bone repair from bone infection (false-positive).
6. MRI: MRI gathers information (imaging the nucleus of the atom) in the
form of low energy radiowaves and transduces this energy into images
with the use of computers. Four components are necessary for the
production of such images:
Magnetic nuclei (the sample)
The strong magnetic field
Coils to transmit and receive radio frequency waves
Magnetic gradiance (small magnetic fields with known, carefully
controlled spatial variation)
NOTE* Protons spin on their long axis, making a magnetic field. In the human
body, these protons spin randomly. When the body is placed in the MRI
machine, most (or more) of the protons line up parallel to the magnetic field of
the machine. Feeding radiowaves into the body (RF), the protons are excited
and energy is released producing an image.
By varying both TR and TE, images that primarily reflect TI-relaxation, T2-
relaxation, or proton density may be obtained.
a. A signal that reflects primarily T1 images is produced by using a spin-echo
sequence of a short TE (20-30 msec) and short TR (300-800 msec)
b. T2 images are produced with a long TE (60-120 msec) and long TR
(15003000 msec)
c. A proton image (or balanced image containing properties of both T1 and T2)
is produced with a short TE and long TR
With all other factors being equal, imaging time is directly proportional to TR,
with T2 images taking the longest time to obtain (prone to degradation due to
motion by the patient)
e. Benefits of MRI:
i. MRI is better than CT in evaluating bone tumors of the medullary canal (CT
has higher resolution for tumors of the cortex). It permits better delineation of
the tumor and has superior soft tissue contrast
NOTE* MRI cannot predict malignancy vs. non-malignancy
ii. MRI is excellent in diagnosing trauma with patients that have preexisting
metallic implants.
iii. MRI is the imaging modality of choice for avascular necrosis.
iv. MRI gives direct multiplanar imaging capabilities in any desired plane
(sagittal, axial, and coronal)
NOTE* When ordering an MRI you must specify what you are trying to look for,
and if you want a certain view, you must specify this too
f. Precautions:
i. MRI not to be done in the first trimester of pregnancy (no studies showing
fetal abnormalities with MRI to date)
ii. MRI should be avoided with cerebral aneurysm clips (may become dislodged),
cardiac pacemaker (interfere with function), and implanted metallic objects
near the orbit of the eye)
iii. Patients with claustrophobia may require sedation
7. CT Scanning: Can establish the presence, nature, size, margination, and
exact location of tumors. Muscle and soft tissue involvement can be
determined. If a tumor is located next to blood vessels, a contrast medium is
needed to enhance its identification. Is excellent to evaluate metabolic bones
diseases (osteoporosis, aseptic necrosis, osteomalacia). It is excellent in
evaluating trauma especially the calcaneus and STJ. The CT can dictate
whether open reduction would be beneficial and whether one or a twosided
approach is indicated to effect the reduction. CT is excellent in the diagnosis of
tarsal coalition and degenerative changes of the tarsus or lesser tarsus where
superimposition has always been a problem.
10. Tenography: Is most often used on the ankle tendons. It can also
document calcaneofibular ligament tears, because this ligament is contiguous
with a part of the peroneal tendon sheath. It has been used to identify
irregularities of the peroneal tendons themselves. Has generally be replaced
with MRI (non-invasive).
a. Tenogram shows narrowing and irregularity of the involved tendon
b. Is only useful in tendons that go around a bone (like the malleoli)
c. Tenography of the posterior tibial tendon reveals 3 types of pathology: central
swelling, thinning of the tendon, and rupture
d. The results of tenography can be:
i. Normal
ii. Mild marginal irregularity
iii. Moderate marginal irregularity
iv. Marked marginal irregularity
v. Occlusion of the tendon sheath
e. Contrast is injected into the proximal portion of the tendon sheath (Conray
43®) mixed 50/50 with Xylocaine®. Upon completion of the
tenogram, a steroid is injected
Anatomic Angles
1. Angles of the Ankle: Are helpful when evaluating ankle trauma. on the D-P
projection.
2. Angular Relationships on the D-P Projection:
a. Talocalcaneal Angle or Angle of Kite (normal for ages 0-5 years= 35-50°
& ages 5-adult= 15-35°): Has long been used as an index of relative foot
pronation and supination. It is a measure of the transverse plane angular
relationship between the longitudinal bisectors of the talus and calcaneus. It
becomes increased with STJ pronation and reduced with supination.
b. Cuboid Abduction Angle (normal= 0-5°): Lines along the lateral surfaces of
both the cuboid and calcaneus. With pronation (increased abduction: Lenoire's
sign) the angle increases. This is important with serial casting.
NOTE* The intermetatarsal angle between the 4th and 5th metatarsals can
also be drawn using a line parallel to the proximal medial portion of the 5th
metatarsal as the lateral arm and bisected the 4th metatarsal as the medial
arm of the angle
NOTE* When examining for lateral bowing of the 5th metatarsal an angle
calledthe lateral deviation angle of the 5th metatarsal is examined. This
angle isformed by a line bisecting the head and neck of the 5th metatarsal
and the line previous described to simulate the proximal 5th metatarsal
shaft. Normal= 2.640 With pathology of the 5th metatarsal this number
usually = 8°. When this is present the structural deviation should be
considered as a significant contributing factor in the tailor's bunion
deformity, and addressed surgically.
Note* The Talar Declination Angle and the Calcaneal Inclination Angle are
inversely proportional
c. Cyma Line: A lazy S curve formed by the T-N and C-C joints (Chopart's
joint). Pronation causes the T-N joint to be anteriorly displaced, and supination
causes the T-N joint to be posteriorly displaced.
d. Sinus Tarsi: In the normal foot it is seen on lateral view as an oval area of
decreased bone density, separating the posterior from middle subtalar facets.
When pronation occurs, as the talus rides anteriorly on the calcaneus and
plantarflexes, the sinus tarsi is obliterated.
f. Square head with a central ridge: The most stable variant. It is believed that
the central ridge is an extention of the plantar crista.
The Osteochondritities
1. These are a group of related disorders which effect the primary or secondary
centers of ossification. Its etiology probably relates to some type of vascular
disturbance to the ossification center, during the time of their greatest
developmental activity.
3. The bony prominence on the dorsum of the proximal phalanx is for the
EHB.
5. The nutrient foramen on the lateral aspect of the shaft is 2.7cm from
the M.PJ.urface of the head to separate the sesamoids.
12. The only structure that never changes is the interosseous ligament
13. The bunion bump Is the abnormal position of the cartilaginous surface
14. Blood Supply to the 1st MTP and 1st metatarsal are via the 1st dorsal
and plantar metatarsal arteries and the superficial branch of the medial
plantar artery
Predisposing Factors
1. Biomechanical
a. Primarily genetic in nature
b. Acquired factors
2. Arthritic
a. RA
b. Psoriatic arthritis
3. Neuromuscular
a. Cerebral palsy
5. Genetic:
a. Down's syndrome
b. Ehler-Danlos syndrome
c. Marfan's syndrome
Biomechanics
1. The first metatarsal dorsiflexes due to hypermobility and when
dorsiflexed it also inverts (the 1st ray axis is medial/proximal/dorsal to
plantar/lateral/distal).
2. A foot with a low axis to the transverse plane gets a small amount of
abduction/adduction of the first ray as does a rectus foot. This type will
develop more of a dorsal bunion. The metatarsus adductus foot with a
higher 1st ray axis gets a more medial bunion.
3. As the 1st metatarsal dorsiflexes and inverts, the hallux which is held
to the ground by muscle power, is everting and dorsiflexing as well as
subluxing laterally due to adduction of the first metatarsal.
4. Due to poor weight bearing of the 1st metatarsal, the second gets
transfer lesions and the 1st develops a dorso-medial metatarsal head
hypertrophy to form a bunion.
7. A hypermobile 1st ray is the primary cause due to a pronatory force and
weakening of the peroneus longus.
11. If you see HAV prior to age 3-4 suspect an anatomical anomaly or
neuromuscular problem (there is no active propulsion In this age group)
12. The hallux is prevented from following the metatarsal head due to the
need for ground purchase, therefore, at the 1st MTPJ torque is formed to
sublux the joint. A normal 1st MTPJ does not have frontal plane motion,
so as the metatarsal dorsiflexes and inverts, the stable hallux dorsiflexes
and everts, and subluxation begins.
15. The sesamoids migrate laterally to change the abductory forces on the
hallux. This causes bony adaptation on the plantar metatarsal head so
that the crista is gradually worn away, to allow further lateral shift of the
sesamoids.
16. Bony adapation shows medial deposition and lateral absorption of the
metatarsal head.
17. The metatarsal head develops a groove (sagittal groove) where the
phalanx now articulates. This allows for normal plantar/dorsiflexion in
the plantar part of the metatarsal head, but on the dorsal part you get
abduction and eversion due to the new bony adaptation.
19. If the bunion develops lateral pressure on the lesser toes look for:
a. Onychocryptosis of the fibular nail groove of the hallux
b. Interdigital soft corn
c. Hammertoes and underlapping digits.
20. A stable hallux against the second digit causes the retrograde muscle
contraction to cause the 1st ray to adduct, therefore, the IM angle
Increases (this causes the met-cuneiform split).
21. As long as you have a propulsive gait the HAV worsens. It stops when
you have a plodding type of gait.
22. After a long time of dorsiflexion of the 1st ray, there is an adaptation
of the 1st ray into a position of elevatus that is somewhat rigid.
23. The medial branch of the superficial peroneal nerve may develop
neuritis due to trauma.
NOTE* The longer it takes to change from one stage to the next, the less severe
the resultant deformity will be
NOTE* When the crista erodes you can transfer the adductor hallucis to the
tibial sesamoidal ligament to hold the sesamoids in the proper position
ii. Chondromalacia
iii. Osteoarthritis
iv. Fibrosis of the 1st MTPJ
v. Marked HAV deformity
1. Structural Deformity (bony): A deformity in which there is osseous change
in either the PASA the DASA or both (so either the PASA or DASA are
abnormal). The structural deformity has as its characteristics the congruous
joint. The HA deformity is also equal to the summation of the PASA and the
DASA.
NOTE* Structural deformities may exist at levels other than the 1st
metatarsophalangeal joint and contribute to the metatarsophalangeal
deformity
11. First metatarsal base gapping= normal Is less than a 2mm gap
Physical Examination
1. The foot of the patient is evaluated on a weightbearing and on a
nonweightbearing attitude:
a. Weightbearing:
i. EHL contracture
ii. Hallux purchase
iii. Hallux position with regard to resting calcaneal stance
position/neutral calcaneal stance position
iv. Radiographic analysis (including mineralization, osteophytes, and
cysts)
b. Nonweightbearing:
i. 1st ray ROM
ii. Manual reduction of IM
iii. 1 st MTPJ ROM, quality of motion, and axis of motion
iv. Location of pain
v. Location of bunion
vi. Hallux position relative to 2nd toe
vii. Calluses
viii. EHL contracture (rare)
ix. Associated deformities (2nd hammertoe, etc.)
x. Trackbound (position the toe in a rectus position and dorsiflex and
plantarflex- there is inability for adequate ROM with resultant pain)
2. A complete vascular, neurologic, dermatological, and biomechanical
examination should additionally be performed.
Arthroplasty Procedures
1. Keller
a. Indications
i. HAV with degenerative joint disease
ii. Second and third degree hallux rigidus
NOTE Do not cut the adductor and remove the fibular sesamoid, you will
predispose to a hallux varus
b. Contraindications:
i. Structural deformities
ii. Hallux rigidus
iii. DJD
c. Complications:
i. Stiff joint
ii. Undercorrection of the deformity
iii. Hallux varus
2. Silver:
a. Indications:
i. Hypertrophied medial eminence
ii. Mild HA angle
iii. No other structural abnormalities
b. Surgical technique: Removal of the medial eminence
c. Complications:
i. Stiff joint
ii. Increase on HA angle following surgery due to cutting of medial stabilizing
structures
3. Hiss: Like the Silver, plus the abductor hallucis is repositioned on the medial
aspect of the 1st MTPJ (trying to balance the abductory component)
Implant Arthroplasties
Implants utilized for the 1st MTPJ are static spacers which relieve pain, allow
for limited painless motion, and give some internal stability to the joint.
Ideally, biocompatibility requires the implant to be:
Chemically inert or free from biodegradation and sterile
capable of withstanding stresses imposed upon it
Durable or possess an integrity of structure without modification of its
physical properties because of the biological environment
Non-irritation, eliciting only a benign local tissue response
General indications for 1 st MTPJ implant arthroplasty:
Hallux valgus with subluxation and painful limited ROM
End stage hallux rigidus
Revisional surgery
Rheumatoid arthritis
Painful DJD
Gouty arthrosis/arthritis
Osteochondral fractures
Intra-articular fractures
General contraindications for Implant arthroplasty:
infection
Salvagable joint
1. Hemi implant:
a., Criteria:
i. Joint pain
ii. Adequate bone stock of the proximal phalanx
iii. Normal IM angle unless reduced by another procedure
iv. Normal articular cartilage of the head of the 1st metatarsal (no DJD)
v. Adequate capsular tissue to allow for implant coverage
b. Complications:
i. Implant instability: Pistoning can occur from removal of too much bone as
well as axial rotation of the implant
ii. Implant failure: Mechanical stress can produce microfragmentation with
migration of the silicone particles into the lymphatic system. With this there
will be obvious loss of function and possible deformity. Not so with titanium
implants
iii. Foreign body reaction: lymphadenopathy which is reminiscent of metastatic
Ca clinically
iv. Osteochondritis dessicans: From excessive stripping of the periosteum and
resultant avasular necrosis
v. Detritic synovitis reaction: The surgical area will become red and swollen
with a chronic low grade pain. Once infection is ruled out the patient can be
treated with NSAIDS or remove the implant device (less chance of this with
titanium implants)
vi. Infection: Implant must be removed and not replaced for at least 6 months
to 1 year. If gram negative infection was present, implant should not be
replaced for longer period of time if at all
vii. Pistoning of the implant into cancellous bone (if implant chosen is too small)
viii. Chronic edema
c. Contraindications:
1. DJD of the 1st metatarsal head contraindicates a hemi implant
ii. Severe osteoporosis of the involved bones
iii. Inability to correct a high IM angle
iv. History of a prior joint infection within the last 6 months
v. History of allergic reaction to implant material
NOTE* This device eliminates the "lateral gap sign" as seen with the standard
hemi-implant, which is. the nonarticulation between hemi- implant and lateral
metatarsal articular surface
NOTE* This device also may be used to replace previous implants that have
failed. This system offers implants that are anatomically and biomechanically
accurate, with instrumentation that is precise to aid in its installation.
The system consists of four phalangeal components which articulate with all
six metatarsal (three left/three right) components. The metatarsal component is
made from cobalt chromium (CoCr) which is the same material used for the
femoral component of the total knee inn plant. The phalangeal component is
made form titanium alloy as the backing to a high molecular weight
polyethylene bearing surface
NOTE* It is mandatory that all patients after receiving the implant arthroplasty
be advised that prior to any invasive procedure (medical/ dental) that the
patient be given prophylactic antibiotics, as is the case with all implanted
prosthetic devices
Arthrodesis
1. McKeever Type (fusion of the 1st m.p.j.): Originally described as a peg-in-
hole 1st mpj fusion.
a. Criteria:
i. Flail toe
ii. Failed implant arthroplasty
Iii. Arthritis/gout
iv Severe hallux valgus deformity
v. Loss of extensor and/or flexor function
vi. Intra-articular fractures with post-traumatic arthritis
vii. Previously failed bunion procedures
viii. Failed Keller arthroplasty procedure
ix. Prior infection/septic arthritis
x. Hallux limitus/rigidus
xi. Rheumatoid arthritis
xii. Charcot joint/osteoarthropathy
xiii. latrogenic hallux varus
xiv. Tumor
b. Ideal position of fusion
i. Slight dorsiflexion (5-10° from the ground supporting surface)
ii. Slight abduction (parallel to the 2nd toe) or 10-15° on the transverse plane
iii. No frontal plane valgus or varus rotation
NOTE* Position will vary depending on activity, lifestyle, and shoe gear
c. Surgical technique:
i. Cartilage denuding
ii. Metatarsal head resection ( as part of pan-metatarsal head resection)
iii. With bone grafting (i.e. failure of implant cases)
d. Possible ancillary procedures:
i. Tibial or fibular sesamoidectomy
ii. IPJ arthrodesis (most common)
iii. Relocation and arthrodesis of the lesser toes
iv. Possible metatarsal osteotomies
v. Possible Hoffman-Clayton
vi. EHL lengthening
vii. Excision of ipj sesamoid
viii. CBWO/ Lapidus/ OBWO
e. Fixation types:
i. Insertion of crossed .045 k-wires
ii. Monofilament 28 gauge wire loops
iii. 4.0 cancellous screw
iv. 3.5 Cortical screw in a lag technique
v. 2.7 mm. screw in a lag technique
vi. Herbert screw
f. Advantages:
i. Preserves adductor, short flexor, and EDB ms. function
ii. Improved cosmetic appearance
iii. Improved stability
iv. Improved overall balance and gait
vi. Improved position of lesser toes
vii. Restores and maintains weightbearing function to the 1st ray
viii. May be converted to Keller or implant arthroplasty
ix. Relief of pain
x. Simultaneous reduction of IM angle
xi. Recurrence of the deformity is unlikely
g. Disadvantages:
i. May promote arthritic changes at the ipj
ii. Optimum position may be difficult to achieve as it is technically
difficult to perform
iii. May require autogenous graft
iv. May limit shoe gear
v. May result in gait alterations
v. Difficulty in kneeling
h. Complications:
i. IPJ arthritis of the hallux
ii. Delayed union/non-union/malunion/pseudoarthrosis
iii. Fracture
iv. Onychocryptosis
v. Medioplantar calluses
vi. Hallux flexus
vii. Impaired gait
viii. Balance problems
ix. Possible subluxation of toes 2 and 3 x. Improper positioning
2. Lapidus Type (fusion of the 1st metatarsal-cuneiform joint):
a. Anatomy:
i. The joint is arthrodial with its own synovial membrane
ii. The medial cuneiform distal articular surface is reniform in shape with a
convex medial border and concave lateral border
iii. The surface is elongated in the vertical direction with an inferior and medial
inclination
iv. The proximal articular surface of the 1st metatarsal is reniform with upper
and lower parts
v. There is a variable articulation between the 2nd metatarsal at its
proximal medial aspect and the first metatarsal at its proximal lateral aspect
vi. Dorsal and plantar 1st metatarsal-1st cuneiform ligaments are present
vii. There are no interosseous ligaments between the base of metatarsals
1 and 2
viii. There is a strong interosseous ligament between the 1st and 2nd cuneiform
and between the 1st and 2nd cuneiform and 2nd metatarsal
ix. Tibialis anterior tendon inserts at the proximal junction of the medial and
inferior surfaces of the 1st metatarsal
x. Peroneus longus tendon inserts at the proximal junction of the lateral and
inferior surfaces of the first metatarsal
b. Indications:
i. Extreme hypermobility associated with HAV
ii. Correction of sagittal plane deformity
iii. Correction of severe metatarsus primus adductus associated with a
hypermobile or structurally medially deviated M-T-C joint
iv. Repair of fracture or dislocation
v. Hypermobile flatfoot with medial column sag
c. Surgical technique: Via a dorsal longitudinal incision medial to the EHL
tendon, with capsular incision dorsal linear or transverse. Articular cartilage is
resected from the joint surfaces. The metatarsal is then adducted and slightly
plantarflexed and then fixated appropriately with a compression screw, staple
or k-wires. A BK NWB cast is applied until radiographic signs of fusion and
stability are seen. Originally, Lapidus fused the 1st and 2nd metatarsal bases,
but this is rarely necessary. Modifications of this procedure include
i. Transfixation of the 1st to 2nd metatarsals with a threaded k-wire
ii. Fusion of the 1st to 2nd metatarsal base with bone graft obtained from the
medial exostosis of the metatarsal head
2. Distal Akin: It is a medial closing wedge osteotomy of the distal part of the
proximal phalanx used to correct a high HI angle. IM angle unaffected.
a. Indications:
i. Pressure of the hallux on the 2nd digit
ii. Epiphysis may be open
iii. Good bone stock
iv. HIA > 100
v. Adequate length of proximal phalanx
vi. DASA is normal
vii. Congruous 1st mpj unless corrected by another procedure
b. Disadvantages:
i. Long healing phase
ii. Fixation needed
iii. Elimination of propulsive phase of gait for 3-6 weeks
c. Complications:
i. Poor correction
ii. Pain postop due to poor fixation
iii. Non-union
iv. Short hallux
v. Hallux elevatus from FHL damage
4. IPJ fusion: Used to correct a hallux hammertoe or injury to the ipj. Must
have good ROM of the 1st MTPJ.
The major criteria for all distal osteotomies of the 1st metatarsal head are
adequate bone density, adequate ROM, and arthritis-free joint. The potential
complication for all distal 1st metatarsal osteotomies is avascular necrosis.
1. Austin:
a. Criteria
i. Normal to mildly abnormal PASA
ii. Increased IM angle (max 14°/depends on other factors)
NOTE* One can safely shy the metatarsal head laterally one-third of the width
of the bone. So if the metatarsal head measures 21 mm. across, you can safely
shy the bone 7 mm. and thereby close the IM angle 7° (since the wider the
bone the more lateral shifting you can perform)
3. Austin/Youngswick modification:
a. Criteria
i. Normal to slightly abnormal PASA
ii. Increase IM angle (mild)
iii. Metatarsus elevatus
iv. Limited ROM
b. Operative technique: Similar to other Austin procedures except with
removal of rectangular wedge from dorsal arm of the 600 angle of the V.
Additionally the wedge can be placed in the plantar arm of the V cut for
additional plantarflexion of the capital fragment.
c. Advantages
i. Plantarflexes
ii. Shortens- relaxes the tension around the joint, thereby increasing
ROM
iii. Stable if fixated
iv. Done in cancellous bone
d. Disadvantages
i. Potential displacement
ii. Difficult to perform
iii. Needs fixation
iv. Should be non-weight bearing 4-6 weeks
e. Complications
i. Intra-articular fracture
ii. Excessive shortening
iii. Dorsal displacement
iv. Metatarsalgia
4. Austin/Bicorrectional modification:
a. Criteria
i. Abnormal PASA
ii. Increased IM angle
iii. Normal metatarsal declination
b. Operative technique: Same as traditional Austin except another cut is made
which is thicker medially so as to remove a trapezoidal wedge of bone from the
dorso-medial metatarsal head. When! the capital fragment is shifted laterally
and impacted the IM and PASA is subsequently reduced.
c. Advantages:
i. Same as the Austin plus
ii. Reduces the PASA
d. Disadvantages
i. Technically challenging (more so than the traditional Austin)
ii. Dislocation potential
e. Complications
i. Same as the traditional Austin
5. Reverdin:
a. Criteria
i. Increased PASA
ii. Normal IM angle
iii. Normal metatarsal declination
b. Advantages:
i. Reduces the PASA
ii. Performed in cancellous bone
iii. Fixation optional
iv. Good visualization
c. Disadvantages:
i. Potential sesamoid trauma
ii. No IM angle reduction or sagittal plane reduction
d. Complications: DJD
11. DRATO:
a. Criteria:
i. Abnormal PASA
ii. Mild increase of IM angle
iii. Valgus rotation of the metatarsal head
iv. Sagittal plane deviation of 1st metatarsal head articular cartilage (facing
either plantarward or dorsalward)
b. Advantages: It addresses 4 deformities in one procedure (PASA, sagittal plane
1st met head, valgus rotation, and IM angle)
c. Disadvantages:
i. Very difficult to perform
ii. Done in cortical bone
iii. Cast/ NWB 6-8 weeks
d. Complications: Same as with other procedures of this type
12. Waterman: Distal metaphyseal dorsal wedge osteotomy that raises the
declination of the metatarsal head. Utilized for hallux limitus.
a. Disadvantages:
i. Does not actually increase the 1st MTPJ ROM
ii. Can create a lack of hallux toe purchase
iii. Does not correct the underlying etiology
iv. Requires removal of the propulsive phase of gait for 3-6 weeks postop.
These procedures are used when the true IM angle should be reduced
(greater than or equal to 140 in the rectus foot) and/or when a sagittal plane
deformity of the first ray needs to be corrected. These procedures are
performed transversely across the metatarsal, perpendicular to the long axis,
and 1-1.5cm distal to the met-cuneiform joint.
1. Trethoan (opening base wedge): Used when the metatarsal is relatively short.
Must utilize a bone graft (best to fixate with a staple to avoid compression of the
bone graft).
NOTE* For screw fixation the osteotomy cut is performed obliquely and must be
at least twice as long as the width of the metatarsal shaft
7. Van Ness: Plantar closing base wedge osteotomy for reduction of metatarsal
elevatus. K-wire fixation utilized.
Shaft Procedures
1. Offset V (Vogler):
a. Criteria:
i. IM angle of 17-18°
ii. PASA between 8-30°
2. Scarf:
a. Criteria:
i. Increased IM angle
ii. Increased PASA
b. Operative technique: A long Z osteotomy that reduces the IM angle and
the PASA. Modifications of this procedure include:
i. A medially based incision
ii. The length of the horizontal osteotomy is in direct proportion to the
width of the IM angle
iii. The direction of the osteotomy has been modified such that approx.
two-thirds of the width of bone is dorsal to the osteotomy, proximally,
and one third is plantar, in order to prevent stress fractures from occurring
c. Advantages:
i. The long plantar fragment possesses stability in two planes
ii. Lends itself to AO fixation (tension band effect)
d. Disadvantages:
i. Difficult to perform
ii. Possible vascular compromise
iii. Performed in diaphyseal bone
e. Complications:
i. Aseptic necrosis
3. Mau (Gudas modification for screw fixation): An oblique shaft osteotomy from
plantar-proximal to dorsal-distal. Indicated for IM angle reduction.
Combination Procedures
1. Stamm (opening base wedge + Keller)
2. Logroscino (closing wedge + Reverdin)
Other Procedures
1. Cotton (1st cuneiform opening wedge osteotomy):
a. Criteria:
i. Metatarsus primus adductus
ii. Pronounced obliquity of the 1st met-cuneiform joint
iii. Whenever a double osteotomy is indicated
b. Contraindications:
i. Excessive bony bridging at the opposing surfaces of the osteotomy
c. Operative technique: A wedge is removed from the 1st cuneiform. The cut is
made parallel to the joint and does not enter the met-cuneiform joint plantarly,
and is placed tibial to the intercuneiform joint at the bases of the 1st and
second metatarsals. The 1st cuneiform osteotomy is then performed on the
distal 1/3 of the bone. The more distal the osteotomy the more effect it has on
the joint direction. The graft comes from the medial eminence and is fashioned
prior to removal of the cuneiform wedge.
d. Complications:
i. Inadequate reduction of the deformity
ii. Malalignment of the osteotomy
iii. latrogenic tenotomy of the FHL
iv. Metatarsus primus elevatus
e. Advantages:
i. This procedure can be added if the distal metaphyseal osteotomy proves to be
inadequate to repair the deformity
ii. Postoperative recovery is far easier than a closing base wedge or Lapidus
iii. No cast is required and partial weight bearing can begin several days
postoperatively
iv. Allows surgery in the presence of a short 1st metatarsal as this procedure
lengthens the 1st ray
6. Conservative treatment:
a. Orthoses
b. Metatarsal bar
c. Rocker-bottom shoes
e. Watermann osteotomy:
i. Advantages:
Allows the hallux to become more dorsal without using any additional joint
motion
ii. Disadvantages:
Does not correct the underlying etiology of the deformity
Can create a lack of toe purchase, and requires the elimination of the
propulsive phase of gait for 3-6 weeks postop
d. Arthrodesis:
i. Advantages:
Eliminates joint pain
Creates significant internal stability of the 1st ray
ii. Disadvantages:
Eliminates all motion of the 1st MTPJ
Requires fixation for 6-8 weeks with immobilization
Restricts the type of shoes which can be worn postoperatively depending
upon hallux position in the sagittal plane
Hallux Varus
1. Etiology:
a. Congenital and often accompanied by other congenital abnormalities
b. Most commonly latrogenic following surgical treatment of HAV
i. Excessive resection of the medial eminence
ii. Excision of the fibular sesamoid and release of the adductor tendon
iii. Overcorrection of the IM angle
iv. Overtightening of the medial capsule
v. Overcorrection of the PASA
NOTE* Capsulitis of the 2nd MPJ may be the only initial complaint
5. Operative Considerations:
a. The deformity should be corrected as soon as possible to prevent DJD of the
joint
b. There is no one surgical procedure. The causative factor(s) must be
determined and corrected along with any secondary changes that had
developed, by selecting the proper procedures (i.e. reverse Austin, reverse Akin,
reverse hemi-angulated implant , soft tissue balancing, arthrodesis, and
Keller/total implant arthroplasty)
NOTE* Most bipartite sesamoids are tibial, 75% are unilateral, and ossification
of the sesamoids occurs at age 8-10 years
h. If patient still hypotensive insert arterial line to monitor BP and blood gases
i. Initiate EKG monitoring
j. Assess neurologic status by Glasgow coma scale
i. Check pupillary response, extremity posturing, and response to commands
ii. Evaluate motor function of all extremities and trunk
iii. If sensory and/or motor deficit, establish spinal cord level of functional
changes
k. Obtain admission blood work (CBC and coagulation profile, arterial blood
gases, urinalysis, and venous blood chemistries)
2. Second priorities:
a. Obtain a H&P if possible
b. Secondary examination of the head, chest, abdomen, pelvis, and extremities
with attention paid to life threatening injuries
c. Obtain appropriate x-rays (cervical, chest, etc.)
d. Place a Foley catheter and check for occult blood in the urine
e. Place a NG tube and check for occult blood in the GI tract
f. Splint extremity fractures
g. Complete neurologic examination
h. Tetanus prophylaxis
i. Culture and sensitivity of open wounds
j. No antibiosis unless specific indication is apparent
k. Perform emergency surgery if required
3. Third priorities:
a. Systematic evaluation of the body
b. Specialty radiology (CT, angiograms)
c. Specialty consultations
d. Invasive monitoring (Swan-Ganz)
e. Urgent Surgery
NOTE* Lower extremity injuries are of low initial priority unless there is frank
bleeding. With an arterial injury, there is a pulsatile flow or spurt of bright red
blood. if present exert manual pressure initially, surgical repair later
Calcaneal Fractures
A disabling injury of the foot. There are a number of associated injuries when
dealing with a calcaneal fracture including: compression fracture of the lumbar
vertebrae, laceration of the kidney-renal damage, fractures of the lower
extremity, and compartment syndrome
1. Anatomical considerations:
a. The largest tarsal bone that has a thin cortical shell enclosing cancellous
bone that contains traction trabeculae radiating from the inferior cortex and
pressure lamellae converging to support the posterior and anterior facets.
b. The calcaneus articulates with the talus through 3 facets, the largest being
the posterior
c. The middle and anterior facet have a common joint cavity with the TN joint
and are separated from the larger posterior facet by the sulcus calcaneus.
d. The lateral end of the tarsal canal gives attachment to the bifurcate ligament,
the EDB, and the inferior extensor retinaculum.
e. Boehler's tuber joint angle overlies the posterior articular facet and is a
measurement of the sagittal plane between the anterior and posterior aspect of
the calcaneus (normal 20-400)
f. Gissane's critical angle is the position that abuts with the lateral process of
the talus and which under compression force acts as a wedge creating the
primary fracture line in the calcaneus
2. Radiological Examination
a. Plain film x-rays
NOTE* Evaluating integrity of the bone plus Boehler's angle and the Critical
angle of Gissane is essential in the diagnosis
i. A-P view
ii. Lateral view
iii. Anthensen's view (demonstrates medial and posterior facets of the STJ)
iv. Isherwood views:
Oblique lateral (anterior process and calcaneocuboid)
Medial oblique axial (medial and posterior facet)
Lateral oblique axial (posterior facet) v. Broden's projections
Broden 1 (shows the posterior facet from anterior)
Broden 2 (shows the sinus tarsi to posterior)
b. Tomography
c. CT scanning (The Gold Standard)
3. Classification: Due to the fact that two types of fractures exist (intra-
articular and extra-articular) the classification that is best used is a
combination of the Rowe (inclusive for extra-articular) and Essex-Lopresti
(inclusive for intra-articular, replacing Rowe 4 8 5)
a. Rowe:
i. Type 1a: Fracture of the tuberosity
ii. Type 1b: Fracture of the sustentaculum tali
iii. Type 1c: Fracture of the anterior process (most common; female
patients predominate, mostly related to wearing high heeled shoes)
iv. Type 2a: Beak fracture
v. Type 2b: Avulsion fracture involving the tendo Achilles insertion
vi. Type 3: Oblique body fracture not involving the STJ
vii. Type 4: Body fracture involving the STJ
viii. Type 5: Joint depression fracture with comminution
b. Essex-Lopresti:
i. Fractures not involving the STJ: Tuberosity fractures
Beak type
Avulsion medial border -Vertical
Horizontal
ii. Fractures involving the calcaneal-cuboid joint:
Parrot-nose type
Various
iii. Fractures involving the STJ:
Without displacement
Tongue-type with displacement
Centro-lateral depression of the joint
Sustentaculum tali fracture alone
Comminuted
NOTE* The primary fracture line is vertical from the vertex of the critical angle of
Gissane to the plantar aspect. The secondary fracture line is determined by the
direction of the force
4. Mechanism of injuries:
a. Torque injuries (extra-articular fractures)
i. Anterior process fx
ii. Avulsion fx
iii. Sustentacular fx
6. Treatment:
a. Anterior process fractures:
i. Small fragment fractures
Soft cast NWB for 2-4 weeks (early mobilization important)
ii. Large displacement fragment
RIF or excision (it is recommended to wait 1 year before excision)
b. A plate stabilizing the lateral wall (the plate is the key in preventing the
posterior heel from drifting into varus)
c. A transverse K-wire or Schanz screw is inserted into the posterior body and
helps reduce the Medial wall indirectly to pull the heel out of varus, and lock in
the medial cortices before the lateral-to-medial lag screws are inserted
8. Surgical incisions:
a. Medial approach: The main advantage of this approach is in the direct
visualization of the reduction of the posteriolateral fragment and the
superiomedial fragment and sparing the peroneals and sural nerve
i. McRenolds horizontal incision
ii. Stephenson vertical incision
iii. Zwipp medial "L" incision
b. Lateral approach: Gives expansile exposure to the lateral wall of the
calcaneus, the calcaneocuboid joint and most importantly the posterior facet
(site of major pathology)
i. Modified -Kocher incision
ii. Oilier incision
iii. Right angle incision (consists of a vertical and horizontal arm; an excellent
expansile incision which exposes the entire lateral rearfoot complex via a
subperiosteal flap, and can be extended proximally if a concomitant ankle
fracture is present)
NOTE* The most advantageous approach includes the use of a primary lateral
incision with an ancillary medial incision if there is difficulty reducing the
posteriolateral and superiomedial fragments
Talar Fractures
1. Anatomy:
a. 2nd largest tarsal bone with more than 1 /2 the surface being cartilage b. No
muscular or tendinous attachments
c. The 3 main parts are the head, body and neck. The neck deviates medially
15-200 and is its most vulnerable part
d. The FHL lies within a groove on the posterior talar tubercle held by a
retinacular ligament
e. Inferiorly 3 facets are present; between the posterior and middle is a
transverse groove which (with the calcaneus) forms the tarsal canal that exits
laterally into the sinus tarsi
2. Blood supply:
a. Extraosseous blood supply comes from:
i. Posterior tibial (#1)
ii. Anterior tibial (#2)
iii. Perforating peroneal (#3)
b. The talar neck is supplied by an anastamosis of 2 vessels:
i. Artery of the tarsal sinus
ii. Artery of the tarsal canal
3. Classification:
a. Chips and avulsions
b. Compression fractures
c. Fractures of the body:
i. Non displaced
ii. Displaced
iii. Comminuted
d. Fractures of the neck (Hawkins' classification): All caused by some fall or
accident resulting in a severe dorsiflexory force to the foot
i. Group 1: Vertical fracture of the neck that is undisplaced
One of the three sources of the blood supply is disrupted (a 13% chance
of avascular necrosis has been reported)
ii. Group 2: Vertical fracture of the neck that is displaced, the STJ is
subluxed or dislocated, and the ankle joint is WNL
Two main sources of blood supply are interrupted (a 42% chance of
avascular necrosis has been reported)
Prognosis is related to the development of avascular necrosis
iii. Group 3: A vertical fracture of the neck that must be displaced and the body
of the talus must be dislocated from both the ankle and subtalar joints
All three sources of blood supply are disrupted (91 % chance of avascular
necrosis)
iv. Group 4: The fracture of the talar neck is associated with dislocation of the
body from the ankle and the subtalar joints with an additional dislocation or
subluxation of the head of the talus from the T-N joint
Avascular necrosis reported in 100% of cases
4. Treatment:
a. Talar neck:
i. Group 1:
BK/NWB cast for 6-12 weeks, followed by NWB with no cast for an
additional 2-5 months with ROM ankle excercises (prognosis is excellent)
ii. Group 2:
Closed reduction with BK/NWB cast until evidence of union
Early ORIF when and if closed reduction fails or the original reduction is
unstable (prognosis related to the development of avascular necrosis)
iii. Group 3:
ORIF with accurate anatomical reduction must be achieved followed by
BK/NWB cast for 3-4 months (prognosis is poor)
iv. Group 4:
As per Group 3
a. The operative incision to the talus must not inflict any additional harm to the
arteries bringing blood to the body and the neck the most critical blood supply
coming from the posterior tibial in the deltoid: ligament attachment. An additional
blood supply courses into the undersurface through the talocalcaneal ligament
b. The talus must be reduced as quickly as possible to protect any remaining
blood supply by untwisting and reducing tension in the deltoid ligament, and to
encourage revascularization
c. An atraumatic operative approach is needed that allows adequate
visualization for anatomic reduction (Oilier lateral incision, transverse Cincinnati
incision or a posterolateral vertical incision work well)
b. Lateral process:
i. Undisplaced:
BK cast partial weight bearing 4 weeks
i. Displaced:
Excision of bone fragment if symptomatic
c. Total talar dislocations (out of the ankle mortise and STJ, anterior to the
fibula, head directed medially, talus rotated on the longitudinal axis so its
inferior aspect points posteriorly):
i. Manipulation:
Usually not successful but should be attempted
ii. Skeletal traction:
Steinmann pin through calcaneus attached to traction apparatus to achieve
an open space between the tibia and calcaneus. The assistant inverts and
plantarflexes the foot, as the surgeon presses both thumbs on the posterior
aspect of the talus by inward and backward movement to rotate the talus.
Afterward, the pin is removed and the foot is immobilized in an anterior and
posterior splint for 7 days with the knee bent to 300 and ankle at 90°. This
is followed by a BK cast for 6-8 weeks. Avascular necrosis is inevitable.
If there is an open wound treat appropriately.
Osteochondral Fractures
1. Classification (Berndt and Harty):
a. Stage 1: A small area of compression of subchondral bone
b. Stage 2: A partially detached osteochondral fragment
c. Stage 3: A completely detached osteochondral fragment remaining in the
defect.
d. Stage 4: A displaced osteochondral fragment
NOTE* It has been found that 44% are lateral and anterior, and 56% are
medial and posterior. Lateral lesions are shallow wafer shaped and medial
lesions are deep cup shaped
2. Mechanism of injury:
a. Lateral lesions: Inversion and dorsiflexion
b. Medial lesions: Inversion, plantarflexion and lateral rotation of the tibia on
the talus
3. Diagnosis:
a. Stage 1:
i. Usually no symptoms, and has been diagnosed as an ankle sprain
ii. ROM of the ankle is WNL and painless
b. Stage 2:
i. Painful with associated collateral ligament damage
Lateral dome lesions have pain over the lateral collateral ligaments
Medial dome lesions have pain over the deltoid
ii. Ankle ROM may be limited due to traumatic synovitis
c. Stage 3 8 4:
i. Pain is more severe
ii. Decreased ROM of the ankle, joint locking or crepitus, and/or instability of
the collateral ligaments
Note* The diagnosis can be made on x-ray (the A-P view shows the medial talar
dome clearly, the lateral dome is obscured but can be visualized in the medial
oblique), but the use of tomograms or CT are best
4. Treatment:
a. Conservative: For stage 1, 2, 3 medial lesions via NWB BK cast for 6 weeks
followed by a patellar-bearing brace until the fracture heals
b. Surgical: For stage 3 lateral and 4, surgery to remove fragment, or stabilize
fragment using K -wire or Herbert screw
NOTE* Review of the literature reveals that surgically treated patients have
better results in preventing post-traumatic arthritis. However, conservative vs.
surgical treatment depends upon the size/location/stage of the fracture
fragment
Fractures of the navicular are easily missed,, and are important to diagnosis
quickly as a delay in treatment could lead to traumatic arthrosis of Lisfranc's
joint as well as the T-N joint. Isolated fractures are uncommon, and usually
occur in conjunction with Lisfranc's dislocations and fractures of the
rearfoot. Stress fractures of the navicular have been seen in runners but
more frequently in basketball players, and this problem is often
misdiagnosed as anterior tibial tendonitis
1. Anatomy:
a. Cancellous bone which is convex distally where it articulates with the three
cuneiforms and is concave proximally to accomodate the talar head
b. The dorsal navicular surface is roughened and serves as an attachment for
the dorsal talonavicular ligament, cuneonavicular ligaments and the
cubonavicular ligament
c. The plantar surface is so roughened and is invested by the plantar
calcaneonavicular ligament (spring ligament)
d. The lateral surface serves the attachment for the navicular portion of the
bifurcate ligament
e. The navicular tuberosity provides the major attachment site for the posterior
tibial tendon
f. The blood supply is from the dorsalis pedis and the medial plantar artery
which form an arcade of 6-8 randomly arranged vessels that penetrate the
navicular surface (the central 1 /3 is relatively avascular)
iv. Can be confused with 2 accessory ossicles in the same area, the os
supratalare and os supranaviculare
v. Treatment is with a BK partially weight-bearing cast for 4-6 weeks
vi. If late problems such as a painful dorsal prominence occurs, excision of the
fragment is recommended
2. Classification system:
a. Type 1: Stress fracture
b. Type 2: Avulsion fractures
(a) Bifurcate ligament area
(b) Tarsometatarsal ligament area
c. Type 3: Body fracture, nondisplaced
d. Type 4: Indirect crush fracture or nutcracker fracture
e. Type 5: Plantar dislocation
f. Type 6: Direct crush
3. Avulsion Fractures:
a. Most common on the lateral aspect at the calcaneocuboid joint and the 5th
met-cuboid articulation.
b. Avulsion fracture of the tuberosity due to tension on inferior calcaneocuboid
ligament.
c. Adduction of the cuboid on the calcaneus will result in avulsion due to
tension on lateral calcaneocuboid ligament.
5. Stress fractures:
a. Should be suspected if concerned about peroneus longus tendonitis,
calcaneocuboid arthritis, dropped cuboid, and capsulo-ligamentous strain in
the cavus foot type.
b. Treatment: BK cast 6-8 weeks (first 2 weeks NWB)
NOTE* In general, treatment for type 1, 2, and 3 injuries is usually NWB BK
cast for 6-8 weeks. Avulsion fractures are sometimes opened if the dislodged
fragment is felt to be intraarticular or will cause impingement on the peroneal
tendons. Type 5 dislocations must be reduced, with closed reduction under
general anesthesia attempted first with an inversion-adduction force on the
forefoot while pushing the cuboid up from the arch. If this fails, open reduction
is advised. Type 4 fractures usually require autogenous bone grafting for
anatomic alignment of the calcaneocuboid and tarsometatarsal joints
Cuneiform Fractures
1. Avulsion fractures:
a. Usually located on the medial aspect of the internal cuneiform as an avulsion
due to pull of the tibialis anterior
3. Stress fractures:
a. Diagnosed by bone scans, CT, or tomography b. Treated with BK WB cast
NOTE*
a. Cuneiform fractures are usually associated with Lisfranc dislocations
b. The mechanism of the dislocation and fractures of the cuneiforms involves
the forefoot and rearfoot acting as levers, with the lesser metatarsals displaced
laterally and dorsally
c. Fracture of the 2nd metatarsal base is an important factor in causing
dislocation or fracture of the middle cuneiform
d. Lisfranc's ligament interruption has an effect on a middle cuneiform
fracture/dislocation
2. Type 2: Intraarticular fracture of the 5th metatarsal base with one or two
fracture lines
a. A result of shearing force caused by the internal twisting of the forefoot while
the peroneus brevis is contracted
b. Displacement of the fragments depends upon the extent of the damage to the
capsule and ligaments
c. Treatment is with an Unna-type boot or BK non-weightbearing cast for 4-6
weeks, or if nonreducible, then ORIF
NOTE* If, wound is open treat accordingly :(check blood loss, shock etc)
tetanus prophylaxis, antibiotic therapy, skin coverage as necessary, rigid
reduction of fracture, and fluid replacement as necessary
2. Treatment:
a. Closed reduction with BK NWB cast 4-6 weeks
b. Open reduction:
i. Monofilament wire
ii. K-wires
iii. AO technique
NOTE* Radiographic diagnosis of this fracture should not be confused with the
normal apophysis present in children (closed b age 15 in boys and 12 in girls).
and Iselin's disease (osteochondrosis) Also differentiation should be made
between an avulsion fracture and an os vesalianum and os perineum
NOTE* Radiographic evidence of chronicity is manifested by a wide radiolucent
fracture line, periosteal reaction, thickening of the lateral margin of the cortex
adjacent to the fracture with or without callus, and intramedullary sclerosis
b. Classification:
a. Salter classification is based on 6 categories
i. Site: anatomical location
ii. Configuration: transverse, oblique, spiral, etc.
iii. Open or closed
iv. Location
v. Extent: complete or incomplete
vi. Relationship of the fracture fragments to each other: displaced, angulated,
rotated, etc.
c. Treatment:
i. Simple fractures with no displacement are treated NWB BK cast for 6-8 weeks
ii. Displaced fractures should be anatomically reduced (usually open reduction
ORIF)
iii. Open fractures: treated as per open fracture classification
4. External fixator device for metatarsal fractures: A miniature external
fixation device can be utilized in the treatment of metatarsals. Maintains the
normal metatarsal parabola pattern
a. Indications: When a metatarsal fracture is severely comminuted or when a
significant loss of bone stock is present (gunshot)
b. This supplies rigid fixation giving stability to the fracture and can be
combined with other forms of fixation
c. It is capable of both compression and lengthening the metatarsal fragments
and can be combined with bone grafting as needed
d. Should be reserved for patients for whom reduction by any other means
cannot be obtained
In supination injuries, the sequence starts with the anterior syndesmosis, and
in pronation injuries, with the deltoid-medial malleolus complex.
b. Danis-Weber: Based on the location of the fracture of the fibula and is useful
for determining the appropriate form of treatment for ankle fractures.
i. Type A: Below the joint level
ii. Type B: At the level of the joint
iii. Type C: Above the level of the joint
2. Lauge-Hansen:
a. Supination-Adduction:
NOTE* The hallmark of this injury is an avulsion fibular fracture at the level
of the ankle or below.
i. Stage 1: Transverse fracture of the lateral malleolus usually below or at the
level of the ankle mortise or lateral collateral ligamentous rupture (pulloff)
ii. Stage 11: Stage I plus an oblique fracture of the medial malleolus (pushoff)
NOTE* Healing is more favorable with supination injuries (less overall damage)
b. Pronation Abduction:
1. Stage I: Fracture of the medial malleolus or tear of the deltoid ligament
ii. Stage II: Stage I plus rupture of the anterioinferior tibiofibular and
posterioinferior tibiofibular ligaments and transverse tibiofibular ligament,
with fracture of the posterior lip of the tibia
iii. Stage III: Stage II plus an oblique supramalleolar fracture of the fibula (the antero-
posterior tibiofibular ligaments tear but the interosseous ligament does not)
c.
Supination-External Rotation:
NOTE* This is the most common fracture of the ankle, and its hallmark is a spiral
fracture of the fibula
i. Stage I: Rupture of the anteroinferior tibiofibular ligament, sometimes
with avulsion of the bony fragment between the tibia and fibula. (tibia:
Chaput, fibula: Wagstaff)
ii. Stage II: Stage I plus a spiral oblique fracture of the lateral malleolus.
iii. Stage III: Stage 11 plus a fracture of the posterior lip of the tibia
(Volkmann's fracture)
iv. Stage IV: Stage III plus a fracture of the medial malleolus
d. Pronation-External Rotation:
4. Other fractures:
a. Tillaux fracture: Fracture of the anterior tubercle of the tibia due to tension
of the IATF ligament. Also a type 3 epiphyseal injury of the anterolateral distal
tibia.
b. Wagstaff-Lefort fracture: Vertical fracture of the anterior margin of the
lateral malleolus due to an avulsion of either the anteroinferior tibiofibular or
anterior talofibular ligaments.
c. Maisonneuve fracture: Fracture of the proximal fibula , associated with
tibiofibular diastasis.
d. Pankovich classification of Wagstaff fractures:
i. Type l: Avulsion fracture and fibular fragments remaining attached to the
anterior talofibular ligament and IATF ligament
ii. Type Il: Oblique fracture with fragment remaining attached to the IATF
ligament
iii. Type III: Oblique fracture of the fibula in addition to a fracture of the
anterior tibial tubercle
e. Bosworth fracture: Fibular oblique fracture caused by external rotation but
the fracture occurs after posterior dislocation of the fibula. This causes closed
reduction to be impossible.
f. Frost. fracture: A triplane fracture which is a combination of Tillaux and
Salter-Harris Type 2 occurring at the distal tibia
g. Pott's Fracture: A fracture of the distal fibula and disruption of the deltoid
ligament (or medial malleolar fracture)
h. Cooperman's fracture: This is a Salter-Harris triplane type 4 epiphyseal
ankle fracture which consists of 2 fragments: the first is composed of the tibial
shaft, medial malleolus, and the anteromedial portion of the epiphysis; the
second consists of the remainder of the metaphysis, epiphysis, and attached
fibula.
i. Chaput's tubercle: The anterolateral tubercle of the distal tibia
j. Shepherd's fracture: Fracture of the posterolateral tubercle of the talus.
k. Volkmann's fracture: A fracture of the posterolateral corner of the distal
tibia (Volkmann's triangle), medial malleolus, fibular shaft, and tibiofibular
diastasis.
l. Ashurst's sign: The overlap of the anterior tibial tubercle and the medial 2/3
of the distal fibula normally is found on the A-P x-ray of the ankle. Ashurst's
sign is present with a lessening of this overlap due to widening of the ankle
mortise due to disruption of the anterior tibiofibular ligament
m. Thurston-Holland sign: The spike of metaphyseal bone attached to the
fractured epiphysis seen with Salter-Harris 2 fractures.
NOTE* ORIF is indicated for all ankle fractures with a greater than 2 mm.
lateral or posterior displacement of the lateral or medial malleolus
b. Absolute criteria:
i. Fractures and dislocations must be reduced immediately
ii. All joint surfaces of the ankle must be anatomically reduced iii. Reduction
must be maintained while the fractures are healing iv. Motion of the joints
should be started as soon as possible
c. Other criteria:
i. ORIF of the fibula should precede fixation of the medial malleolus because it
provides a buttress to the talus, which tends to displace laterally and pull along
the medial malleolus. Shortening of the fibula must be prevented (see chapter
29: Ankle Conditions, Nonunion of Malleoli)
ii. Repair of the deltoid is difficult and rarely necessary, and should be reserved
for more severe injuries in which soft tissues around the ankle are damaged.
iii. Large displaced fragments of the anterior and posterior processes of the
tibia, which are present in some indirect ankle fractures, should be
anatomically reduced (if at least 1 /4th the weight-bearing surface) in order to
restore congruity of the articular surface (reduction of these fragments prevents
subluxation of the talus)
iv. Fracture of Chaput tubercle and Wagstaff fractures should always be
reduced and fixed
v. A displaced yet essentially intact fibula requires syndesmotic screws for
proper reduction
NOTE* Stability of the syndesmosis is tested by pulling the fibula laterally with
a bone hook. When there is more than 2-3 mm of lateral displacement of the
fibula, instability is present and the use of a syndesmotic screw(s) is indicated.
It is desirable to insert this screw 2-3 cm above the tibial plafond. When there
is a plate attached to the fibula, one cortical screw can be removed and
replaced with a syndesmotic screw. When drilling for a syndesmotic screw, the
direction must be anteromedial to avoid inserting the screw posterior to the
tibia
NOTE* Observe for tendon dislocations, i.e. posterior tibial tendon into the
ankle joint
e. Fixation of the medial malleolus: Requires fixation with a device that provides
compression between the fracture fragments I. AO technique:
Essentially only 4.0 mm cancellous screws should be used for fixation of the
medial malleolus (self-tapping 4.5 mm malleolar screws are not practical
because the head of the screw is too large and prominent after insertion)
A screw usually 40-45 mm in length is usually used
In osteoporotic bone a washer would be used to prevent penetration of the
head of the screw head
A second screw is used when the malleolar fragment is large (a K -wire can
be used first to prevent rotation of the fragment and retained for additional
stability)
f. Closed reduction:
i. The main advantage of closed reduction is lack of postoperative wound
complications
ii. Closed reduction is contraindicated in unstable ankle fractures in which
both malleoli are fractured
iii. Closed reduction is acceptable in fractures when open reduction is
contraindicated (vascular compromise, neglected open fractures, pyoderma,
skin necrosis or contusion)
iv. Gravity is utilized by positioning the leg horizontally and in external rotation
while holding the foot in one hand with the heel resting in the palm. This
effectively produces internal rotation and adduction of the talus and in that way
reduces the fibula and brings in position the medial malleolus
A short leg cast is first applied while the fracture is being reduced, then is
extended to a long leg cast with the knee in 30° of flexion. A minimum of 6
weeks of immobilization is required
5. Factors that result in irreducible fractures:
a. Interpositon of the deltoid ligament
b. Trapping of the tibialis posterior tendon
c. Trapping of the medial tendon(s)
d. Dislocation and fracture-dislocation of the fibula behind the tibia
6. Soft tissue complications of fractures and dislocations of the ankle:
a. Skin: Blistering, decubitus breakdown, slow wound healing
b. Massive Edema: Treat with compression immediately, cold application,
elevation, rigid internal fixation and early ROM
c. Fracture blisters: Direct result of edema. ORIF must be delayed for 3-7
days
d. DVT's: Due to plaster immobilization, venous insufficiency, sickle-cell.
Treat casted patients with sub-Q heparin 2500-5000 units Q 8-12 hours if
they are at risk
e. Chondrolysis of the ankle (cartilage necrosis): Leads to posttraumatic
arthritis
f. Avascular necrosis of the talus
g. Infection following open fractures (5-30%)
h. Nerve injuries
i. Nerve disruptions (complete and incomplete)
ii. Reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome
i. Arterial injuries
j. Tendon injuries
k. Ligament injuries
i. Medial deltoid
ii. Lateral ligament (chronic thickening, local tenderness, inversion
instability, anterior subluxation)
2. Treatment:
a. Medial force injuries: reduced by traction and reversal of the mechanism of
injury with casting (WB or NWB)
b. Lateral force injuries: closed reduction first. C-C fusion is recommended for
persistent symptoms. Triple arthrodesis has been the traditionally
recommended treatment if conservative care has failed
1. Mechanism of injury:
a. Abduction and plantarflexion: 2nd metatarsal is fractured, the remaining
ligaments give way and the forefoot is subluxed laterally
b. With continued abduction, there may be a nutcracker-like fracture of the
cuboid.
2. Classifications:
a. Hardcastle et. al.
i. Type A: Total incongruity (the metatarsals displace in a unit in one plane
ii. Type B; Partial incongruity ( at least one of the tarso-metatarsal joints is not
displaced)
iii. Type C: Divergent (the 1 st metatarsal is displaced medially and the other
metatarsals are displaced laterally)
b. Quenu and Kuss
c. Myerson: Further subdivided Hardcastle's classification
i. Type A: Total incongruity
ii. Type 131: Partial incongruity, medial metatarsals
iii. Type B2: Partial incongruity, lateral metatarsals
iv. Type C: Divergent patterns
v. Type Cl: Partial displacement
vi. Type C2: Total displacement
NOTE* Due to the spontaneous relocation that this fracture dislocation can
produce, x-rays do not usually show the true magnitude of the severity of this
injury
5. Complications:
a. Amputation
b. Sepsis
c. Thrombophlebitis
d. Compartment syndrome
e. Neuroma formation (either traumatic or postsurgical “amputation” type)
f. Post-traumatic arthritis
NOTE* Inversion of the ankle is resisted primarily by the ATFL when the ankle
is plantarflexed and by the CFL when the ankle is dorsiflexed.
NOTE* Angular relationships between the ATFL and the CFL is 100° in the
frontal plane and 105° in the sagittal plane. This sagittal plane angle
decreases with STJ supination and increases with STJ pronation. The angular
relationship between these two lateral ligaments is very d cult to attain during
reconstructive ankle stabilization repair tending to cause a decrease in
allowable STJ supination at the expense of attaining stability against inversion
stress.
2. Ligament composition:
a. 67% water
b. Remaining 33%: 90% collagen type 1, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans
3. Causative Factors:
a. Tibial varum
b. Calcaneal varum
c. Plantarflexed -1st ray
d. Rigid forefoot valgus
e. STJ varum
f. Uncompensated equinus
g: Muscle imbalance (peroneal insufficiency)
h. Previous sprains (elongated ligaments no longer restrain inversion)
i. Torsional abnormalities
j. Short leg syndrome
k. Ankle varus
4. Mechanism of injury:
a. Internal rotation, plantarflexion, and adduction of the talus beyond normal
physiologic limits
6. Diagnosis:
a. Scout films
b. Stress views (local anesthesia: peroneal block + local ankle infiltration):
Can use a Telos® apparatus for better quality control
i. Inversion stress: A 5-6° difference between the injured and uninjured ankle
signifies ligamentous rupture
NOTE* Always take bilateral inversion stress films when examining a patient
radiographically with potential grade III ruptures
NOTE* Degree of talar tilt is not a true indication of which ligament is ruptured
ii. Push-pull stress (anterior draw sign): The ability to pull the ankle out of the
mortise more than 4 mm. usually indicates a rupture of the anterior talofibular
ligament
NOTE* There are certain situations where the stress test may be invalid:
genetic ligamentous laxity, history of chronic ankle instability, inability to
achieve adequate anesthesia, or inability to properly maneuver the uninjured
ankle. In these cases, ankle arthrography would be indicated
NOTE* The main indication for ankle arthrography in a soft tissue injury is to
evaluate a possible ankle diastasis and to confirm ligament tears
c. Ankle arthrography: In performing this test you must consider the following
i. The patient must have no allergy to iodine
ii. The injection should be administered at the anterior-medial aspect of
the ankle (to prevent confusion from the actual injury)
iii. The test must be performed within the first 5-7 days following the
injury
iv. Dye that is found within the normal anatomical confines of adjacent tendon
sheaths and not within the surrounding soft tissue should be considered a
normal anatomical variant
d. Peroneal tenography: A diagnostic technique for evaluation of the calcaneo-
fibular ligament. If dye is injected into the peroneal tendon sheath and is found
to enter the ankle joint but no dye is seen in the soft tissue surrounding the
ankle, a negative test.
ii. Surgical treatment 2-3 days following injury (must be young and athletic who
need complete stability):
9. Complications:
a. Inappropriate diagnosis and lack of treatment
b. Early complications
i. Painful hemarthrosis
ii. Hematoma
iii. Rarely, gangrene of the skin of the lateral ankle in cases of rupture of the
perforating peroneal artery
c. Neuropraxia in grades II and III with damage to the intermediate dorsal
cutaneous nerve
NOTE* With greater than 20% of stretching, fascicular interruption may occur,
causing permanent neurotmesis of the intermediate dorsal cutaneous nerve
and producing a profound lateral foot and ankle sensory loss
d. The most common surgical complication of primary ankle repair, involves the
intermediate dorsal cutaneous nerve
i. Entrapment neuropathy
ii. Laceration
e. Late complications of surgical repair result from overzealous tightening of the
lateral ankle structure (grade III ankle sprains should be fixed in neutral not in
eversion
f. Painful sinus tarsi can occur later from an everted ankle position
LIGAMENTOUS INJURIES
Lateral Medial
Common Rare
Adduction (inversion) Rarely alone
Type I (Anterior Talofibular Ligament) palpable tenderness Abduction or External Rotation
Talus Stable - Anterior drawer sign Edema
- Inversion stress (occhymosis in deltoid area)
- X-Ray (Bilateral)
Deltoid ligament ruptured to variable degree
Treatment 1 strap assesment made as per
2 physical therapy Close (1956)
1. Mortise view
Type II Anterior Talofibular Ligament Palpable tenderness 2. If lateral displacement of
Calcaneal Fibular Ligament diffuse ankle pain talus
If plantar flexion • possible anterior deltoid ligament 2mm + Type I
rupture 3mm + Type II
Talar stability 4mm + Type III
+ Anterior drawer Treatment 1. Type I strap
- Inversion stress 2. Type II
- X-Ray 3. Type III -cast B, K., W. B.
Treatment 1. strap (occ. B. K.. W.B. cast)
2. physical therapy
3. youth - possible ligament
NOTE* Most common are fractures of the fibula and ruptures of the tibiofibular
ligaments
a. Types of injuries:
i. Supination-external rotation
ii. Pronation-external rotation
iii. Pronation-abduction
4. Diagnosis:
a. Scout films (with pronation injuries a high fibular x-ray)
b. Stress x-ray (local anesthesia): Can be done by hand or using a Telos®
apparatus
i. Mortise view of the ankle where the foot is abducted and everted in relation to
the leg
ii. Lateral view where the foot is anteriorly displaced in relation to the leg
NOTE* Stress views are done bilaterally and the clear space is what is
compared
5. Treatment:
a. Usually closed reduction and with BK NWB cast with the foot in inversion is
sufficient for 3-6 weeks, followed by a BK weight-bearing cast for another 3-6
weeks.
b. Surgical repair is indicated if closed reduction does not replace the talus to
its proper position.
NOTE* This can occur if the deltoid gets rolled up or inverted, or if the posterior
tibial tendon gets trapped.
Compartment Syndrome
Usually diagnosed in the arm and leg, also occurs in the foot, and can follow
several types of injuries, most commonly multiple fractures or crushing
injuries. This entity should be considered in the differential diagnosis in
patients presenting with a painful swollen foot post trauma
1. Definition: Increased compartmental pressure resulting in decreased
perfusion and ultimate ischemic changes to the tissues on the compartment.
This can eventually result in contractures and poorly functioning limbs,
a. Physiology: At rest the intramuscular pressure is approximately 5 mm Hg.
During a muscular contracture the pressure can increase up to 150 mm Hg or
more. At relaxation, the compartment pressure rapidly drops, and within 5-10
minutes, has returned to baseline. With a compartment syndrome, there is no
drop of pressure
Two criteria must be fulfilled for this diagnosis to be made: a space that is
limited by fascia, skin, or bone must be present; second increased
compartment pressure caused by a decrease in compartment size or an
increase in the size of the contents within that compartment must be present
Any injury with a pressure greater than 30 mm Hg should
undergo an immediate fasciotomy
Note* The patient might still present with a pulse because the vascular collapse
occurs first at the arteriolar level
5. Clinical Findings:
a. Pain out of proportion to the clinical findings b. Paresthesias
c. Pulselessness
d. Or none of the above
6. Treatment:
a. Fasciotomy
i. Double dorsal technique:
Midfoot and forefoot: 2 dorsal longitudinal incisions, one over the 2nd
metatarsal and the other over the 4th (deepened down to the metatarsal
shaft) where a hemostat is passed into each adjacent interosseous space.
The wound is closed secondarily in 5 days.
ii. Extensile medial incision
iii. Combined approach
7. Associated complications:
a. Comminuted fractures
b. Severe soft tissue injuries
c. Post-ischemia swelling
d. Intramuscular hematomas associated with bleeding diasthesis
e. Crush injuries
NOTE* The irrigant can contain either 1 gm cefazolin in 1 liter of sterile saline,
or 50,000 units of bacitracin and 1 million units of polymyxin B in 1 liter of
sterile saline.
j. For type 1, 2, and 3A open fractures delayed primary closure, using skin
grafts within 5-7 days
k. For type 3B and 3C open fractures, the soft tissue loss is so great that the
use of skin flaps is necessary and a delay in using them becomes apparent
because of the repeated debridements
l. External fixation should be used for all type 3 and unstable type 2 fractures
m. Internal fixation (screws, plates, pins, etc.) should be used for articular and
metaphyseal open fractures. This is done preferably within 8 hours of the injury
NOTE* An open fracture untreated in the initial 7-8 hours (golden period) is
generally considered to convert from a contaminated wound to an infected
wound
4. Antibiotic considerations:
a. Limiting the duration of the initial antibiotic therapy is important to minimize
the emergence of resistant nosocomial bacteria
b. Type 1 fractures are treated with Cefazolin 2 gm STAT followed by 2 gm Q 8
h for 48 to 72 hours
c. Type 2 and 3 are treated with combined therapy, using cefazolin as above,
plus an aminoglycoside (Gentamycin or Tobramycin) dosed at 1.51.7 mg per kg
on admission, followed by 3.0 to 5.0 mg per kg per day in divided doses. The
duration of therapy is 3 days unless overt infection develops
d. Administer 10 million units of Pen G if the injury was sustained on a farm, to
cover for Clostridium sp.
2. Treatment (general):
a. Tetanus prophylaxis
b. Antibiotic prophylaxis
c. H 8 P, including vascular, neurological, musculoskeletal and integumentary
status
d. Inspection of the wound under local or regional anesthesia
e. Initial gentle cleansing of the wound with a mild soap (no strong antiseptics
that can cause tissue damage)
f. X-rays, CBC, and urinalysis as necessary
g. Primary wound care: remove all foreign and devitalized material
copious flushing, atraumatic tissue handling, avoid tourniquet
h. Skin closure when appropriate
3. Treatment (specific):
a. Tidy wound: Once debrided, can be closed after appropriate skin cleansing
(skin edges may be freshened)
b. Untidy wound: Deep damage must be repaired and skin closure should be
delayed until wound demarcation has progressed to the point where viability is
reasonably assured. Secondary or delayed primary closure may be indicated.
Swelling within closed compartments may indicate the need for the release of
damaged fascia or skin
c. Wound with tissue loss: Must prevent the wound from drying out and must
cover exposed vital structures using biological dressings, porcine xenografts, or
appropriate autograft
f. Infected wound: Prior to closure the wound must be debrided and converted
to a contaminated wound, and then a clean wound (check with C&S and colony
counts: less than 105 bacteria per millimeter means
contamination)
Puncture Wounds
1. General protocols:
a. Tetanus prophylaxis
b. Remove all foreign material, leave wound open, do C&S
c. Start broad spectrum antibiotics
d. If no improvement in 3 days suspect a gram (-) infection
e. If bone or joint is penetrated or if wound is deep, surgical exploration
and debridement are necessary
f. If pain persists after 4 days of treatment use bone/gallium scans, sed rate,
WBC to follow patient progress
4. Growth plate injuries: Problems after injury are rare, but when growth is
disturbed, the reason is from avascular necrosis of the plate, crushing or
infection of the plate, formation of a bone callus bridge between the bony
epiphysis and metaphysis, and hyperemia producing local overgrowth. There
are 2 types of growth plates, epiphyseal (those that form under pressure) and
apophyseal (those that form under traction)
6. Classification: Salter-Harris
a. Type 1: A complete separation of the growth plate at the zone of
transformation, no disruption of growth, treated with closed reduction and
immobilization for 3 weeks
b. Type 2: Separation of the growth plate with extention of the fracture line into
the metaphysis. This extension creates the 'Thurston Holland Sign'. There is
usually no growth disturbance and it is treated the same way as type 1
c. Type 3: Separation of the growth plate with extension of the fracture line into
the epiphysis so that it is intraarticular. Potential for growth disturbance as the
fracture line crosses the entire growth plate, and must not be left displaced by
ORIF
d. Type 4: A fracture from the metaphysis through the growth plate and into the
epiphysis, and can result in growth disturbance. This fracture is unstable and
requires ORIF
e. Type 5: A crush type injury usually with subsequent growth disturbance.
Treated with closed reduction (if displaced) and immobilization 3-6 weeks NWB
f. Type 6: A scooping out of a portion of the growth plate, via some type of
projectile causing osseous and soft tissue damage. Any large fragments
of bone are reduced. Bony bridging causing growth disturbances can be a
complication here. Treat the bony bridge with resection and interposition of fat
or silicone rubber
g. Type 7: An intraarticular fracture that does not involve the physis. Very
difficult to diagnosis in the very young. Treat with immobilization if
nondisplaced and ORIF if the fragment is large and displaced (or excision of the
fragment if too small to reduce)
3. Treatment:
a. Type 1: Open reduction
NOTE* Closed reduction can be tried under anesthesia as follows: traction and
increase dorsiflexion, then push the proximal phalanx into contact with the
metatarsal head, then push (don't pull) the proximal phalanx into the reduced
position, maintaining contact with the metatarsal head
3. Sesamoid fractures:
a. Mechanism: Fall from a height, repetitive direct trauma (dancing), and
repetitive indirect trauma (traction of the intrinsics)
b. Presentation:
i. Sesamoid involved: Tibial more than fibular (tibial is larger), rarely both
injuried, almost never bilateral
ii. Clinical presentation: Pain on direct palpation and pain on hallux
dorsiflexion
iii. Differential diagnosis of pain in the sesamoid area: Joplins neuroma,
sesamoiditis, osteochondritis dissecans, osteochondrosis, ruptured bipartite
sesamoid, turf toe, DJD/eroded crista, hypertrophic sesamoid, and fractured
sesamoid
c. X-ray evaluation: Order bilateral AP, lateral and plantar axial (MO for tibial
and LO for fibular sesamoid) 75% of bipartite sesamoids are unilateral. Bone
scan if in doubt
d. Normal sesamoids:
Ossification appears at 8-10 years
Bipartite sesamoids more common in tibial than in fibular
Sesamoids may be multipartite
2. Complications:
a. Split nail
b. Adhesions of the skin fold to the nail root
c. Chronic ingrown nails
d. Widening of the nail
e. Narrowing of the nail
f. Protruding or non-adherent nail
g. Malaligned nail
2. Treatment:
a. Zone 1:
i. Flush, debridment and appropriate wound closure (usually secondary
intention)
ii. Occasionally skin graft large defects (split thickness less durable, full
thickness more durable)
b. Zone 2:
i. Reduction of bone with debridement of necrotic tissue
ii. Coverage of nail bed and phalanx tip usually achieved by local
neurovascular advancement flap
c. Zone 3:
i. Not suitable to initial treatment in ER or office
ii. Usually complete nail bed loss
iii. OR debridement of necrotic tissue and matrix
iv. Delayed revision of the digit
v. Attempt to maintain tendon function
v. Terminal Symes may be necessary
2. Some authors believe that the culture of the bite wound offers little
information because of the multiplicity of organisms found and the absence of
an established infection
5. Elevation and immobilization with the ankle at 900, and after 72 hours
improvement occurs, then initiate ROM and adjunctive PT
6. Leave any potentially contaminated wound open for 4-6 days, and at that
time, if the wound is clean, without redness or swelling, it is reasonably safe to
perform primary closure
8. Rabies is of concern with any animal bite. See Chapter 6, Infectious Disease,
section on Rabies
Chapter 26: Digital Deformities
and Surgery
Hammertoe Syndrome
Mallet Toe Syndrome
Claw Toe
Overlapping 5th Toe
Hallux Hammertoe
Hallux Interphalangeal Arthrodesis
Lesser Digital Arthrodesis
Overlapping 2nd Toe
Syndactlyization
Digital Implants
Floating Toe Syndrome
Blue Toe Syndrome
Polydactylism
DIGITAL DEFORMITIES AND
SURGERY
Hammertoe Syndrome
There is a necessity for surgical procedures not only to relieve symptoms, but
also to preserve function. The toe functions to decelerate the foot, stabilize, help
in propulsion, and for kinesthetic sensation. To prevent a recurrence, it is
necessary to investigate and neutralize the deforming forces for full correction
of the deformity
1. Definitions:
a. Hallux hammertoe: This is a deformity whereby there is a dorsal contracture
of the 1st MTP joint and a plantar contracture of the hallux IPJ. There is a
dorsal contracture of the MTP joint capsule and plantar contracture of the
hallux IPJ capsule
b. Lesser hammertoe: Plantarflexion of the PIP joint with dorsiflexion of the MTP
joint.
c. Clawtoe: Dorsiflexion of the MTP joint and plantarflexion of the DIP and PIP
joints.
d. Mallet toe: Plantarflexion of the DIP joint
e. Clinodactyly: Curly toe (transverse plane deviation)
f. Digiti quinti varus: Overlapping 5th toe
3. Anatomy: Electromyographic studies have shown that the long flexor fires
approximately at 15% of stance phase, the short flexor at 60%, the EDB at
40%, the EDL during swing and heel contact, and the intrinsics (interossei) at
50%.
a. Extensors:
i. The EDL goes to each lesser digit by a separate tendon
ii. The EDB goes to the middle three lesser toes
EDL and EDB form a common tendon that passes over the proximal phalanx
to split into three slips. The middle slip goes to the middle phalanx and the
lateral two rejoin to insert over the distal phalanx
The sling apparatus is part of the extensor hood. The sling mechanism
wraps around the base of the proximal phalanx and attaches to itself. It can
lift up on the proximal phalanx like a sling. There are no specific
attachments of the extensor apparatus into the proximal phalanx
The EDL and EDB dorsiflex the MTP joint by the sling and cause weak
extension of the DIP and PIP joints, but in vivo cause passive flexion due to
the passive stretch on the fibers.
b. Flexors:
i. Goes to each digit to insert on the distal phalanx after passing deep and
superficial through the FDB under the proximal phalanx. It has the quadratus
plantae attached to its lateral border to help align its pull and the four
lumbricals attached distally and medially.
ii. The FDB is a 1st layer muscle that goes to each toe and inserts on the
middle phalanx.
Flexor tendons do not insert on the proximal phalanx
Action of the FDL and FDB gives active flexion of the IPJ's and secondary
passive extension of the MTP joint from the passive pull on the extensor
complex
These are stance phase muscles that help in stabilization and propulsion of
the foot and digits
Predominant action of the brevis vs. longus may determine whether the PIPJ
or DIPJ is contracted
c. Intrinsics:
i. There are 4 dorsal interossei. They abduct the digits around a central ray.
Their insertion is on the medial side of the 2nd and the lateral side of the 2nd,
3rd, and 4th proximal phalanx. There is also a point of attachment of both
plantar and dorsal interossei to the plantar plate under the MTP joint.
ii. Plantar interossei are 3 in number. They adduct the 3rd, 4th and 5th digits
toward the 2nd by attaching to the medial side of the phalanx and plantar
plate.
The interossei run dorsal to the deep transverse metatarsal ligament, but
inferior to the axis of flexion of the MTP joint, and both function to
plantarflex the MP joint and extend the PIPJ and DIPJ
When both interossei on each side of the MTP joint fire concurrently,
transverse plane abduction/adduction is stabilized
These are stance phase muscles that help prevent buckling of the toes due
to the mechanism of the sling and production of passive stretch on the
longer extrinsic muscles
iii. Lumbricales are 4 muscles that originate from the medial side of each of the
4 FDL tendons, run beneath the deep transverse intermetatarsal ligament to
insert into the base of the proximal phalanx and form the distal extent of the
extensor expansion.
They plantarflex the MTP joint and dorsiflex the PIPJ's and DIPJ's
Not recorded on EMG
By limiting dorsiflexion of the MTP joint they help hold the digit in a more
rectus position
iv. Quadratus plantae is attached to the FDL laterally coming off the calcaneus.
Its proximal pull helps align the FDL pull to reduce the adductovarus
component to the lateral digits.
The intermediate dorsal cutaneous nerve from the superficial peroneal nerve
supplies the adjacent sides of the 3rd and 4th digits, and the 4th and 5th
digits
The sural nerve supplies the lateral aspect of the dorsum of the foot and the
lateral aspect of the 5th digit
ii. Plantar aspect:
The medial plantar nerve of the posterior tibial nerve supplies the hallux,
2nd, 3rd, and medial aspect of the 4th digit
The lateral plantar nerve supplies the lateral aspect of the 4th and 5th digit
f. Summary:
i. Stance:
FDL and FDB are deforming digital forces, but the FDB is the primary
deforming force
Interossei and lumbricales have the potential for stabilizing the MTP joint
and neutralizing the deforming forces
With intrinsic pathology, hammertoes form
When the intrinsics function properly, stable digital function ensues
Interossei are stance phase, lumbricales are not well documented (swing
phase hypothesized)
ii. Swing:
EDL and EDB are active deforming forces that could create a hammer toe in
swing phase by creating MTP joint dorsiflexion and passive plantarflexion of
the IPJ's
It is assumed in normal foot function, that lumbricales prevent hammertoes
from occurring
4. Etiology: The etiology of the hammertoe will depend to a degree on the time
in the gait cycle when the toe becomes initially deformed. There are 3 basic
mechanisms.
5. Preoperative considerations:
a. If the Kelikian push-up test allows the digit to straighten, then the EDL and
MTP capsule is not so taut so that only a flexor tenotomy may be done
b. 90% of the hammertoe deformities are a result of FLEXOR STABILIZATION
compensation secondary to hypermobile flat feet.
Therefore following surgery orthoses must be used to neutralize the etiology
c. With EXTENSOR SUBSTITUTION an arthroplasty would only be temporary
due to lack of neutralization of the deforming forces, soft tissue releases would
only add a little time, and orthoses function during stance phase and won't
work here. Therefore an arthrodesis is the procedure of choice. A Hibbs
procedure would only be useful in a flexible deformity
d. With FLEXOR SUBSTITUTION strengthening of a weakened triceps by
tendon transfer and fusion of the digits would be in order
6. Surgical procedures:
a. Post procedure: Arthroplasty with proximal head resection
b. Lambrinudi procedure: Fusion of PIP and DIP joints
c. Young-Thompson procedure: Peg-in-hole fusion
d. Gotch procedure (or Gotch and Kreuz): Resection of the base of the proximal
phalanx and syndactylization of the digits
e. Girdlestone procedure: Transfer of the flexor tendons to the dorsum of the
proximal phalanx
f. Sgarlato procedure: Transfer of the FDL dorsally with capsular resection
through a 3 incision approach
g. Taylor procedure: PIPJ arthrodesis using a K-wire
h. Hibbs procedure: A tenosuspension transferring the EDL to the met heads or
base conjointly
i. Collins procedure: Repositioning of the medial and lateral extensor slips
dorsally on the digits
j. Suppan CAP procedure: Indicated for hammertoe correction in children. Two
transverse semielliptical incisions are made over the head of the proximal
phalanx, skin section and tendon and capsule removed, the collaterals are left
intact, metaphyseal osteotomy performed with cylinder of bone removed. The
capital fragment will fit snugly against the shaft of the proximal phalanx and
held snugly by the skin repair
NOTE* When doing this do not cut the lumbricales to the base of the proximal
phalanx
c. Repositioning of the extensor slips: In digits in which the PIPJ is buckled but
completely reducible, the medial and lateral extensor slips may be repositioned
dorsally on the digits.
9. Complications:
a. Floppy digit with phalangeal base resection
b. Edema and sausage toe
c. Floating toe with metatarsalgia
d. Short toe
e. Regeneration of the phalangeal head
f. Infection
g. Decreased sensation
h. Blue toe secondary to venous congestion
i. White toe secondary to arterial spasm
NOTE* The difference between a floppy (flail) toe and a floating toe is that a
floating toe does not purchase the ground while a floppy toe may purchase the
ground however it is unstable.
2. Diagnosis:
a. Adduction of the toe
b. Contracture of the MTP capsule
c. Medial contracted EDL
d. Varus rotation
e. Extention of MTP joint
f. Subluxed MTP joint
3. Surgical planning:
a. Skin incisions:
i. Z-plasty or V-Y
NOTE* The central arm of the Z-plasty is in line with the direction you want to
lengthen the skin
ii. Plantar elliptical
iii. Plantar V-Y
iv. Longitudinal incisions with dog ear resection
v. Syndactylization
b. Tendon/soft tissue:
i. Release and lengthening of the EDL
ii. Capsulotomy
iii. Plantar capsule release
iv. Transfer EDL to distal stump of abductor digiti quinti
v. Suspend EDL tendon around the metatarsal neck
v. FDL split and reattached dorsally
c. Bony procedures:
i. Resect 5th metatarsal head
ii. Proximal phalangeal head removal
iii. Removal of the base of the proximal phalanx
iv. Abductory wedge removal of phalanx
v. K -wire to hold position
4. Procedures:
a. Lapidus procedure: Extensor tenotomy with transfer of the distal stump
under the proximal phalanx to attach to abductor digiti quinti
b. Kelikian procedure: Syndactyly of the 4th and 5th after capsule release and
arthroplasty of the 5th toe
c. Ruiz Mora procedure: Resection of the proximal phalanx and semieliptical
plantar crease incisions to hold in corrected position
d. Lanzonis procedure: Extensor tenosuspension of the 5th metatarsal head
and fusion of the PIPJ and MTP capsulotomy
e. Goodman-Swisher procedure: A V-Y plasty, Z-tenotomy and capsulotomy
f. Butler procedure: Two concurrent racket shaped incisions completely
encircling the toe so to derotate and plantarflex
g. McFarland procedure: Proximal phalangeal head removed, Jones suspension
and syndactylization
h. Jahss procedure: Ruiz Mora incision with diaphesectomy of the proximal
phalanx
NOTE* Fixation for fusion is either with 2 K-wires, AO fixation (4-0 cancellous,
3.5 cortical, 2.7 cortical), or 28 gauge monofilament wire loops
NOTE* AO fixation of the IPJ cannot be used with a total joint replacement
unless 2.7 mm cortical screw modification is utilized, but can be difficult
NOTE* Monofilament wire fixation and crossed K-wires are the best choices
when planning to utilize a total joint replacement
NOTE* When doing an IPJ fusion, the propulsive phase of gait should be
eliminated for 6 weeks
4. Rigid hammertoe deformity plus rigid plantarflexed 1st ray: IPJ fusion
plus dorsal wedge osteotomy of the 1st metatarsal
4. Postoperative complications:
a. Non-union
b. Hallux limitus or rigidus
c. Hallux extensus
d. Elevatus of the first metatarsal with IPK sub 2nd metatarsal
NOTE* Fusion of the 2nd toe will not stop the formation of a hallux abductus
deformity
2. Surgery:
a. Resection of phalangeal base
b. Flexor tendon transfer
c. Proximal IPJ arthrodesis
d. Partial met head resection
e. Relocation of the flexor plate
f. Freeing the base of the proximal phalanx from attachments and freeing
the metatarsal head from attachments and fixating with K-wire
g. Repositioning of a 2nd MTP capsular flap
h. Total implant arthroplasty
Syndactylization
1. Classification:
a. Type 1 (zygodactyly): Most common
i. 2nd and 3rd digits most frequently involved (followed by the 3rd and
4th digits)
ii. Asymptomatic and requires repair primarily for cosmetic reasons
b. Type 2 (synpolydactyly):
i. Associated with duplication of a part or entire digit (the duplicated digit
usually intervenes between two essentially normal digits)
ii. 3rd and 4th digits primarily affected, followed by the 4th and 5th
toes
iii. Usually discomfort due to shoe irritation when the 5th toe is involved
c. Type 3: Fingers only
d. Type 4: Fingers only
e. Type 5
i. Syndactyly with concomitant metatarsal (or metacarpal) synostosis
2. Radiographic findings
a. Adequate bone stock to receive the stems of the implant
b. Adequate width of the proximal and intermediate phalanx to receive the
stems of the implant
c. Adequate length of the intermediate phalanx to receive the stem of the
implant
d. Absence of MTP and/or DIPJ contracture
e. DJD of the PIPJ may be present
4. Implant procedure:
a. Two longitudinal semi-elliptical incisions (to prevent fat toe syndrome)
b. The dorsal tendinous structure is dissected free from the base of the distal
phalanx to the middle of the shaft of the proximal phalanx, and is retracted
medially or laterally
c. The PIPJ is entered by severing the capsular ligaments
d. The head of the proximal phalanx is excised at the surgical neck (a little
more bone is removed than with a traditional arthroplasty)
e. The proximal phalangeal stump is reamed first, and the middle phalangeal
stump is reamed
f. The implant is inserted, and there should be a 2-3 mm space between the
implant and each bone (very important)
g. The tendon and skin are then repaired
5. Advantages of digital implants:
a. Relief of pain
b. Maintenance of toe stability
c. Maintenance of toe length
d. Restoration of function
e. Allows for PIPJ motion and plantar gripping power of the toe
f. Minimal postop disability and early toe motion
NOTE* The Sgarlato (S.H.I.P.) and Sutter device have been used in the 5th toe
due to their size.. The Sutter which has the advantage of having a small
central portion whose thickness is less than its width, can be placed either
angled or vertical to prevent pressure from the shoes or adjacent tissues. The
S.H.I.P. can be placed normally
7. Contraindications:
a. Nonreducible contracture of MTP joint and/or DIPJ of the involved toe
b. Inadequate bone stock
c. Infection
d. Inadequate vascular status
e. Significant frontal plane deformity
f. Presence of an implant at the MTP joint of the involved toe
g. Inadequate skin coverage
2. Surgery:
a. Correct the underlying etiology
b. PIPJ fusion
c. Total joint replacement
2. Causes:
a. Atherosclerosis (most common)
i. Thrombosis formation,
b. Infection
i. Microthrombi formation
ii. Secondary syphilis
c. Atheroembolism
i. Cholesterol emboli from ulcerated plaques in the more proximal
vessels
ii. Mural wall thrombi
iii. Endocarditis
iv. Myxoma
v. Vascular surgery
vi. Angiography
vii. Meningitis
d. Anticoagulation
i. Coumadin
e. Thrombolytic activity
i. Tissue plasminogen activator
ii. Streptokinase
f. Drugs
i. Dopamine
ii. Beta blockers
iii. Steroids
iv. Epinephrine (in local anesthetics)
g. Hyperviscosity syndromes
i. Cryoglobulinemia
ii. Cold agglutinins
iii. Polycythemia vera
h. Hypercoagulable states
i. Malignancies
ii. Diabetes mellitus
i. Vasculitis
i. Polyarteritis nodosa group
ii. Hypersensitivity group
ii. Wegener's granulomatosis group
iv. Giant cell arteritis
j. Foot surgery
5. Treatment:
a. Angiography to determine the location of the plaque
b. Photoplethysmography of the digits
c. Removal of the atheromatous plaque
d. Endarterectomy
d. Risk factor modification
e. Amputation as necessary
f. Medical therapy as needed (i.e. D/C anticoagulant or other suspected
causative agent, use of antibiotics or other drug)
Polydactylism
A hereditary malformation, transmitted as an autosomal dominant trait. It may
occur as a single deformity in the foot (nonsyndromatic) or may be associated
with accessory digits in the hand, and there may be other congenital
malformations as well (syndromatic). The digital deformities may be pre-axial
(hallux) or post-axial (5 toe) or central toes 2,3,4). The duplication of the toe
may be complete or involve the distal phalanx or the distal and middle phalanx.
The metatarsal may be partially or completely duplicated. Duplicated digits may
share a common metatarsal. Shoe fit is the major problem.
1. Classification (Temtamy and McKusick): Adapted from the classification of
the hand (less applicable to the foot)
a. Pre-axial:
i. Type 1 to type 4
b. Post-axial:
i. Type A: A fully developed accessory digit that articulates with either the 5th
metatarsal or with a duplicated 5th metatarsal
ii. Type B: Characterized by an accessory digit devoid of osseous tissue which
represents a vestigal digit
1. Surgical tenets:
a. The most rudimentary digit (least important) should be excised when
possible leaving 5 toes
b. Try to achieve a normal functioning foot as well as a cosmetically pleasing
one
c. Avoid scar on the medial or lateral side of the foot where shoe pressure will
irritate them
a. If any other congenital deformities are present, they should be corrected first
b. The above diagram shows an accessory pre-axial great toe that is in varus
secondary to a metatarsus adductus. The metatarsus adductus is treated first
via casting (which will help stretch the medial skin of the hallux prior to
surgery). In the above case it is best to remove the lateral toe so the scar line is
on the lateral aspect. Redundant soft tissue can be excised from the 1st
interspace, and the adductor hallucis stump from the amputated toe is sutured
to the base of the remaining proximal phalanx, and the intermetatarsal
ligaments are repaired. This helps straighten the toe and close the
intermetatarsal angle
Muscle Physiology
1. Anatomy:
a. Connective tissue surrounding the muscle
i. Intact muscle enclosed by the epimysium
ii. Muscle fascicles enclosed by perimysium
iii. Individual muscle fiber enclosed by endomysium
b. Muscle's structural and functional subunits:
i. Fasciculus
ii. Muscle fiber
iii. Myofibril: The myofibrils complex protein structure is the basic contractile
unit:
Actin: Thin protein filament containing contractile proteins tropomysin and
troponin
Myosin: Thick protein filament
iv. Sarcomere: the smallest functional unit of the muscle fiber extending from
one "Z" line to the next
The myofibril is composed of alternating "A" bands corresponding to the
thick myosin filaments and "I" bands corresponding to the thin actin units
The "A" band encloses the "H" band (where cross bridges are absent) and in
the middle of the "I" band is the "Z" line
T-tubules are invaginations of the sarcolemma which form an
interconnected network
The sarcoplasmic reticulum extends from one T-tubule to the next forming
the terminal cisternae
v. Myoneural junction:
The axon gives rise to several terminal twigs, the end of each is dilated and
unmyelinated
vi. Organelles:
Mitrochondria are found between the myofibrils and appear in varying
amounts depending upon the type of muscle fiber
Cytochromes for oxidation, and glycogen appear in varying amounts
c. Tendons:
i. Dense connective tissue between connective tissue in muscle, and insertion
area
ii. Golgi tendon organs transmit information concerning tendon tension
3. Training programs:
a. Most training programs are an adaptation of sprinting and endurance
training
i. Endurance training results in hypertrophy of type 1 fibers
ii. Sprint training results in hypertrophy of type 2 fibers
NOTE* Fiber type can change in response to training programs, but there is no
proof that one fiber can transform to another fiber type
4. Types of training:
a. Isometric excercises:
i. Contraction in which a muscle maintains a constant length
ii. Contraction against stationary objects
iii. Maximal isotonic contraction increases strength to a greater extent than
submaximal contractions
iv. Isotonic training does not require a long time of excercising
v. Maximal strength gained is very specific for the joint angle at which the
training is performed
vi. Motor performance is not increased by isotonic exercise
vii. Isometrics are static excercise
viii. Strength gained by isometrics decrease the maximal speed of a limb
f. Comparisons
i. Isotonic vs. isokinetics:
Strength increase is greater in isokinetic as compared to isotonics
Isokinetic contractions are preferred over isotonics
Isokinetic training increases isokinetic and isotonic strength more than
isotonics
Isokinetic training (at fast speeds) increases motor performance more than
isotonics
Isokinetics is as effective as isotonics in decreasing fat and increasing lean
body mass
Less muscle soreness with isokinetics over isotonics
ii. Isokinetics vs. isometrics:
Isokinetics causes a greater increase in isometric and isokinetic strength
than does isometrics
iii. Isotonics vs. Isometrics:
Motor performance is Improved to a greater extent with isotonics than
isometrics
iv. Variable resistance vs. isometrics:
Probably better motor performance with variable resistance
NOTE* The strength training choice will depend upon the cost of the equipment,
amount of strength gains, and motor performance increase
2. Tendon healing:
a. 4 stages each taking approx. one week
i. Stage 1: The severed ends being joined by a fibroblastic splint. At the end of
this stage the repair site is in its weakest state consisting of serous material
and granulation tissue (termed zone of degeneration)
ii. Stage 2: Shows an increase in paratenon vascularity and collagen
proliferation. Immobilization is still necessary.
iii. Stage 3: Collagen fibers begin to form longitudinally and give the tendon a
moderate degree of strength. At this time controlled passive motion is beneficial
to decrease the formation of fibrous adhesions (CPM)
iv. Stage 4: Exhibits fiber alignment which imparts increased strength to the
tendon. At this point active mobilization can be initiated
NOTE* Tendon lengthenings (once healed) will often result in a loss of muscle
strength roughly equal to one grade of manual examination
Tendon Transfers
1. Common procedures:
a. Murphy modification (for advancement of the tendo Achilles): Is utilized
in young patients with CP where the spasticity of the triceps is causing ankle
equinus. This procedure is performed by transecting and rerouting the achilles
tendon into the calcaneus distally just proximal to the subtalar joint
b. Peroneus brevis tendon transfer: This muscle is transferred to aid in
dorsiflexion via rerouting the tendon medially into the 3rd cunieform.
c. Peroneus longus tendon transfer: This muscle is transferred when
additional dorsiflexory power is needed via rerouting the tendon medially into
the 3rd cuneiform. It can also be rerouted into the posterior calcaneus when
paralytic calcaneal deformities are present
NOTE* The peroneus longus tendon transfer to the cuneiform is utilized with a
drop foot deformity and weakness or paralysis of the anterior muscle group
NOTE* Tibialis anterior tendon transfer can be used for recurrent clubfoot,
flexible forefoot equinus, drop foot, and Charcot-Marie-Tooth deformity
f. Split tibialis anterior tendon transfer (STATT): Its goal is to increase true
dorsiflexion of the foot by balancing its power laterally via splitting the tibialis
anterior and suturing the lateral portion to the peroneus tertius (see chapter
21, Surgery of the Congenital Foot)
NOTE* The STATT is recommended for spastic rearfoot varus, fixed equinovarus,
excessive invertor power, forefoot equinus with swing phase extensor
substitution and claw toes, flexible cavovarus deformity, and dorsiflexory,
weakness
Tendon Grafts
1. Donor tendons: Are usually from the plantaris, peroneus tertius, strips of
the Achilles, and slips of the EDL or EDB
2. Carbon Implants: The carbon acts as a scaffold on which new tendon can
develop, which makes it appropriate for filling large gaps as can be present in
the Achilles tendon (experimental as of now)
6. Dacron mesh (Dacron Cooley graft): The dacron vascular graft is split to
provide a band of material of the desired length that can be woven through or
around a ruptured Achilles tendon as a lattice for further healing, In the same
manner as the plantaris tendon is used
2. Functional considerations:
a. Open kinetic chain:
i. Supination (plantarflexion-,adduction-inversion)
b. Closed kinetic chain:
i. Deceleration of STJ pronation
ii. Acceleration of STJ and oblique MTJ supination in midstance phase of gait
iii. Rigid lever for gastro-soleus function
3. Etiology:
a. Traumatic forces and injuries
b. Progressive degeneration due to excessive demand (severe forefoot varus,
equinus, obesity)
c. Severe degeneration secondary to systemic disease (RA, mixed connective
disease, DM, etc.)
d. Neoplasms
4. Subjective findings:
a. Medial arch and/or ankle pain
b. Diffuse swelling and tenderness along the course of the TP tendon
c. Symptoms aggravated by proloned weightbearing and ambulation
d. May be more painful on initial arising in the AM (post-static dyskinesia)
e. Progressive flatfoot deformity
f. Sedentary/decreased activity
5. Clinical findings:
a. Edema and increased warmth of the medial aspect of the foot and ankle
b. Palpable tenderness along the course of the tibialis posterior tendon
c. Tenosynovitis may be present
d. Collapse of the medial arch
e. Palpable defect with complete ruptures
f. Increased heel valgus and midfoot abduction
g. Decreased muscle strength with guarding
h. Positive single heel rise test
i. Apropulsive/antalgic gait without resupination
j. Flexible to rigid depending upon the duration
6. Radiographic findings:
a. DP view:
i. Increased T-C angle (angle of Kite)
ii. Increased calcaneocuboid angle (cuboid abduction angle)
iii. Degenerative arthritic changes
b. Lateral view:
i. Decreased calcaneal inclination angle (can be normal)
ii. Increased T-C angle
iii. Increased talar declination angle
iv. Significant medial column faulting
v. Forefoot supinatus
vi. Degenerative arthritic changes
c. Special studies:
i. MRI: T1-weighted images provide images about the tendon itself, T2
weighted images are useful to highlight fluid within the tendon sheath or
adjacent edema
NOTE* MRI is most revealing. Three patterns of rupture have been reported:
a. Type 1: Intrasubstance tears noted on MRI with longitudinal splits and
hypertrophy of the tendon (increased signal on T1)
b. Type 2: Progression of intrasubstance tears noted on MRI as decreased girth
and attenuation of the tendon
c. Type 3: Complete rupture (noted as discontinuity of the tendon on MRI)
ii. CT
iii. Tenogram
8. Surgical treatment: Depends upon the time since the rupture, degenerative
changes taken place, rigidity of the deformity, and expected functional demands
a. Soft tissue procedures:
i. Early tendon repair:
Excision of all scar tissue
Excision of inflamed synovium
Z-plasty shortening repair technique or transfer of tibialis anterior
Primary reattachment to the navicular tuberosity
ii. Delayed primary repair with tendon free graft and desmoplasty
iii. Delayed primary repair with tendon transfer and desmoplasty
iv. Evans type procedure
NOTE* The indications for primary soft tissue repair alone are limited
b. Osseous procedures:
i. Isolated STJ arthrodesis
ii. Evans calcaneal osteotomy
iii. Talonavicular arthrodesis
iv. Combinations of above
v. Triple arthrodesis
vi. Ankle arthrodesis
vii. Pantalar arthrodesis
viii. Talonavicular arthrodesis with lateral column lengthening
c. Ancillary procedures:
i. TAL
ii. Gastrocnemius recession
iii. Medial column suspension procedures iv. Bone grafting
v. Subtalar joint arthroereisis
2. Differential diagnosis:
a. Residual calcaneal valgus
b. Torsional abnormalities
c. Limb length discrepancy
d. Post-traumatic arthritis
e. Charcot arthropathy
f. Lisfranc dislocation
4. Diagnostic studies:
a. Tenogram
b. CT
c. MRI
5. Treatment (conservative)
a. BK cast immobilization in equinovarus x 4 weeks
b. Orthoses
c. NSAIDS
6. Treatment (Surgery):
a. Tendon repair
b. FHL tendon transposition
c. Secondary stabilization:
i. Medial column fusion
ii. Modified Young procedure
iii. STJ arthroereisis
iv. Evans calcaneal osteotomy
v. Triple arthrodesis
b. Stenosing Tenosynovitis:
i. Etiology:
Direct trauma
Lowgrade/chronic trauma
Enlarged peroneal tubercle
Calcaneal fracture
Arthritis
ii. Signs and symptoms:
Pain
Trigger point pain
Thickened tendon sheath
Pain with ankle inversion
Chronic edema
iii.Diagnostic studies:
X-ray (calcaneal axial view)
CT
MRI
Peroneal tenogram
iv. Treatment:
Surgical repair of osseous pathology
Surgical repair of the tendon sheath
Iontophoresis
Physical therapy
c. Tendon rupture:
i. Etiology:
Laceration
Chronic degeneration
ii. Signs and symptoms
Pain
Edema
Loss of eversion strength
Inability to plantarflex the 1st ray
Increased soft tissue mass
iii. Diagnostic studies:
Peroneal tenogram
MRI
CT
iv. Treatment:
Cast x 6 weeks
Surgical repair (either primary repair or secondary with a graft)
1. Etiology:
a. Direct blow
b. Laceration
c. Abnormal muscle pull
2. Clinical diagnosis:
a. Pain at the site
b. Palpable tendon gap
c. Increased soft tissue mass
d. Loss of plantarflexory strength
e. Inability to walk on toes
f. Doherty-Thompson Test (+) (or just Thompson Test): The patient attempts to
plantarflex the foot while the calf is being squeezed. The inability to perform
this plantarflexion is a strong indication of Achilles tendon rupture
NOTE* Plantaris rupture often mimics tendo Achilles rupture but with this the
Thompson test is normal, and the pain is usually located along the course of
the ruptured plantaris tendon
3. Radiographic findings:
a. Obliteration of Kager's triangle
b. Increased soft tissue density
c. Toyger's angle (130-150°)
d. CT scan
e. MRI
NOTE* The Bosworth procedure or the Lindholm procedure is used for late
repair of a rupture.
Bosworth procedure: Ruptured tendon exposed through a posterior
longitudinal midline incision from the calcaneus to the proximal 1/3 of the calf.
Excision of scar tissue at the ruptured ends. Free up from the medial raphe of
the gastrocnemius a strip of tendon 1/2 inch wide and 7 inches long, leaving
this strip attached just proximal to the rupture site. The strip is turned down
and passed transversely through the proximal tendon and then passed
transversely through the distal tendon, and then passing the tendon through
the distal end from anterior to posterior, while holding the knee at 90° and the
ankle in plantarflexion. Once again the strip is brought proximally and passed
through transversely and sutured onto itself. Cast applied
Lindholm procedure: A posterior curvilinear incision is made from the midcalf
to the calcaneus. The rupture is exposed, the ragged ends are debrided and
apposed with a box-type mattress of heavy silk or other non-absorbable suture.
From the proximal tendon and gastrocnemius aponeurosis, 2 flaps are
fashioned, each approx. 1 cm wide and 7-8 cm long. These flaps are left
attached at a point 3 cm proximal to the site of rupture,- and each flap is
twisted 1800 on itself so that its smooth external surface lies next to the
subcutaneous tissues as it is turned distally over the rupture. Each flap is
sutured to the distal stump of the tendon and to the other flap, completely
covering the site of the rupture. Wound closed. Cast applied.
5. General surgical principles:
a. Functional length restoration
b. Approximation of clean ends
c. Avoid the sural nerve
d. Preserve the tendon sheath
e. Evacuate the hematoma
f. Use proper anchoring sutures for the tendon
g. Tendon graft as necessary
6. Complications:
a. Nonoperative
i. Occurs from long term cast immobilization in equinus (needs aggressive
isokinetic rehabilitation). At the 10-15 week mark atrophy of the triceps occurs
b. Operative:
i. Intratendinous hemorrhage and irreparable damage to the paratenon
ii. Every attempt must be made to cover the newly repaired tendon with the
paratenon complex, because if not, this will become immobile and nongliding
iii. Rerupture
iv. Infection, wound dehiscence, sinus tarsitis, and STJ damage
8. Use of bracing:
a. Should be judicious and for specific reasons
b. Standing and walking excercises must also be performed without a brace to
stimulate function in the transfer
9. Bivalved casts:
a. Prolonged use is very important
b. Continue until the muscle has developed full strength and balanced function
with no tendency for reccurrence of the original deformity
Tenosynovitis
An inflammation of the synovial lining of the tendon sheath
1. Etiology:
a. Acute infectious tenosynovitis: Caused by a pyogenic organism. The bacterial
invasion and the resultant purulent exudate can involve the entire length of the
tendon sheath. Treatment with antibiotics must be prompt, I and D may be
necessary when the purulent material organizes
b. Chronic infectious tenosynovitis: Caused by diseases such as syphilis and
TB. The synovial wall becomes thickened and there is a fibrinous exudate
which affects the peroneal and extensor tendons most frequently.
c. Acute simple synovitis: Results from overuse most commonly affecting the
EHL, TA, and tendo Achilles
d. Chronic simple tenosynovitis: Caused by continuous shoe friction on the
extensors or Achilles tendon
e. Stenosing tenosynovitis: Usually affects the anterior and posterior tibial,
EDL, and the peroneals below the lateral malleolus and in the inferior
retinaculum. Caused by friction with-in the "pulley system" of the ankle within
the fibrous sheath. In digits, "trigger toe" occurs.
f. Hemorrhagic tenosynovitis: Caused by trauma in which the epithelial lining of
the sheath is ruptured followed by hemorrhage and clot formation (excision of
the hematoma is recommended)
g. Paratendonitis: Results from excessive friction between the tendon and the
paratenon caused by overuse, crepitation can occur
h. Acute tenosynovitis caused by rheumatoid arthritis: Nodular masses can
form within the tendon sheath, which may be rheumatoid nodules.
Chapter 28: Lesser Metatarsal
Surgery
Anatomy (Metatarsals 2-3-4)
Differential Diagnosis of Metatarsalgia
Surgical Treatment of the IPK
Lesser Metatarsal Joint Replacement
Panmetatarsal Head Resection
Metatarsus Adductus
Freiberg's Disease
Tailor's Bunion
Splayfoot
Brachymetatarsia (Brachymetopody)
Skewfoot
LESSER METATARSAL SURGERY
The central 3 metatarsals are usually grouped together because they do not
have individual axes of motion.
2. The plantar plate attaches to the metatarsal heads and the extensor hood
runs from dorsal to plantar to join at the inferior junction of the hood, capsule,
and deep transmetatarsal ligament
3. Differential diagnosis:
a. Verruca plantaris: pinpoint bleeding, usually not directly on weightbearing
area, fast development, skin lines surround the lesion
b. Inclusion cyst: history of trauma (foreign body, puncture)
c. Scar tissue (history of trauma)
d. Foreign body
4. Preoperative considerations:
a. Mark the lesion with a x-ray opaque marker
b. Take x-ray in the angle and base of gait in full weight-bearing
c. Evaluate the metatarsal parabola (141.5°)
d. Check the axial view to evaluate the condyles
e. Look at the morphology of the metatarsal head and the relative position of
the fat pad
2. Types:
a. Swanson flexible hinge toe implant
b. Sgarlato double-stem cup implant (hinge avoided)
c. Swanson condylar implant
3. Surgical technique:
a. Lazy "S" Incision over the MPJ (less skin contracture)
b. Linear or "U" shaped capsulotomy
c. Preoperative soft tissue contractures eliminated via extensor/flexor
tenotomies and/or plantar plate/hood release
d. Bony resection (mostly metatarsal head)
e. Reaming the medullary canals (caution in the proximal phalanx)
f. Sgarlato recommends centralizing the flexor tendons via a drill hole in the
plantar portion of the phalangeal base and attaching the tendon by suture
g. Check fit with a sizer
h. Flush copiously
i. Wound closed in layers
4. Complications:
a. Implant instability: Pistoning can occur from removal of too much bone as
well as axial rotation of the implant
b. Implant failure: Mechanical stress can produce microfragmentation with
migration of the silicone particles into the lymphatic system. With this there
will be obvious loss of function and possible deformity
c. Foreign body reaction
d. Osteochondritis dissecans: From excessive stripping of the periosteum and
resultant avasular necrosis
e. Detritic synovitis reaction: The surgical area will become red and swollen
with a chronic low grade pain. Once infection is ruled out the patient can be
treated with NSAIDS or remove the implant device
f. Infection: Implant must be removed and not replaced for at least 6 months to
one year. If gram negative infection was present, implant should not be
replaced for longer period of time if at all
g. Pistoning of the implant into cancellous bone (if implant chosen is too small)
h. Chronic edema
i. Fracture of the base of the proximal phalanx
5. Contraindications:
a. Severe osteoporosis of the involved bones (seen with RA)
b. History of a prior joint infection within the last 6 months
c. History of allergic reaction to implant material
d. Medically compromised patient (diabetic neuropathy, Charcot joint)
2. Preoperative signs:
a. IPK's under most metatarsal heads
b. Atrophy of plantar fat pad
c. Ability to palpate prominent metatarsal heads
d. Dorsally contracted toes at the MPJ's
e. Possible contracted toes and proximal interphalangeal joint or distal
interphalangeal joint with associated lesions
f. Range of motion at the MPJ may be limited or painful or may be absent
g. Range of motion of the MPJ may elicit crepitus
h. Signs of degenerative disease and deformity
i. Patient ambulates with an apropulsive type gait
j. Ulceration of sub-metatarsal head area
3. Preoperative symptoms:
a. Moderate to severe pain on the plantar aspect of the forefoot when the
patient ambulates with or without shoes
b. Painful multiple hyperkeratotic lesions
c. Painful plantar ulcerations under the metatarsal heads area
d. Patient may complain of painful dorsally contracted toes when wearing shoes
e. Patient complains of pain when most of the MPJ's are moved
f. Patient may complain that the toes cannot be straightened
g. History of metabolic disease (RA, psoriatic arthritis, etc.)
6. Advantages:
a. Eliminates painful MPJ's
b. Ability to ambulate without pain
c. Allows patient to wear regular shoes
d. Allows reduction of dorsally contracted toes in most cases
e. Elimination of plantar pressure points
7. Disadvantages:
a. Loss of propulsive gait
b. Flail toes postoperatively
c. Incidence of hematoma formation with resulting fibrosis
d. Destroys the function of the MTPJ's
e. Loss of digital stability
NOTE* if one excises a large amount of the metatarsal and one is already
dealing with short toes (especially the 5th), then syndactylism will aid in
achieving some stability of the area distally in the forefoot. This procedure can
be an adjunct to panmetatarsal head resection
Metatarsus Adductus
1. Clinical evaluation:
a. Adducted forefoot in the transverse plane with the apex of the deformity at
LisFranc's joint
b. Medial border concave with a deep vertical skin crease
c. Hallux widely separated from the 2nd toe d. The lesser digits will be adducted
at their bases
e. Occasionally the abductor hallucis may be palpably taut
2. Radiographic evaluation:
a. Increase in metatarsus adductus angle (greater than 200)
NOTE* Not always accurate as the lesser tarsal bones in the neonate are not
measurable as they are radiographically "silent", and in many cases the T-C
relationship is abnormal. Therefore It is best to use the calcanealsecond
metatarsal angle (normal parameters pending)
b. Lepird procedure:
i. Indications:
met. adductus in the child older than 6-8 years
residual talipes equinovarus deformity
ii. Procedure:
3 dorsolongitudinal incisions
oblique closing-abductory wedge osteotomy (Juvara type) of the 1st
metatarsal with AO/ASIF screw fixation
rotational osteotomy of each lesser metatarsal with AO/ASIF screw fixation
(2.7 mm cortical used mostly) perpendicular to the plane of the osteotomy
an oblique closing wedge osteotomy may be used on the 5th metatarsal in
place of the rotational type (if preferred)
rotational osteotomies are performed from dorsal-distal to plantar proximal
with temporary preservation of the cortical hinge (facilitates fixation). The
osteotomy is approximately 45° from the weightbearing surface. The precise
angle will depend on the declination of the metatarsal segment. As the
declination of the metatarsal increases, the osteotomy will be more parallel
to the weightbearing surface of the foot
area of the cortical hinge preserved is most commonly proximal/plantar
the screws are then removed and the osteotomy is completed
the screws are reinserted, the distal fragments are rotated laterally, and the
screws are tightened
the alignment of the foot is assessed; if realignment is necessary the
screw(s) can be loosened and the bone adjusted
iii. Postoperative care:
same as Berman-Gartland
iv. Complications:
same as Berman-Gartland
if the osteotomy is performed too vertically the rotation of the
osteotomy will be around the longitudinal axis of the metatarsal bone itself,
resulting in inversion/eversion of the bone itself v. Advantages: this
procedure is amenable to rigid internal fixation and primary bone healing
over/undercorrection can be corrected during surgery
biplanar correction can be achieved
eliminates pin tract infections
7. Ancillary Procedures:
a. Equinus Deformity:
i. TAL
ii. Gastrocnemius recession
b. Flatfoot Deformity:
i. STJ arthroereisis
ii. Evans calcaneal osteotomy
iii. Modified Young's tenosuspension/ Modified Kidner procedure
arthrodesis/ N-C arthrodesis
Freiberg's Disease
Also known as osteochondrosis of the metatarsal head or avascular (aseptic)
necrosis of the bone, most commonly affects the 2nd metatarsal
1. Etiology:
a. Trauma (or trauma followed by fracture)
b. Ischemia
c. Prominent plantar metatarsal head with excessive loading with a compromise
to the circulation to the subchondral bone
d. Often appears after age 13, affecting women 3 times more frequently than
men
3. X-ray evaluation:
a. The initial findings include a joint space widening 3-6 weeks after the onset
of symptoms
b. This is followed by increased density of subchondral bone
c. As the disease progresses, a zone of rarefaction develops surrounded by a
sclerotic rim
d. With time, the epiphyseal bone weakens and collapses with the formation of
spicules and loose bodies
e. Flattening of metatarsal head with osteophytic lipping
f. Joint narrowing
g. Peripheral soft tissue swelling
h. Bone margins are sclerotic
4. Treatment:
a. Directed toward preventing further damage and displacement of the MPJ
(casting and cortisone shots followed by orthoses))
b. Later stages:
i. Implant arthroplasty: If symptoms are due to joint arthritis
ii. Metatarsal head remodeling (must preserve the alignment of the toeuse splint
3 months postoperatively)
iii. Bone grafts (Smillie): To restore the contour of the metatarsal head by
inserting a cancellous graft (good for stage 1-3)
iv. Rotational osteotomies (Gauthier and Elbaz): Rotates the lower aspect of the
metatarsal head dorsally after a section of damaged cartilage has been excised.
This allows the plantar cartilage to articulate with the proximal phalanx
NOTE* Dr. Freiberg's only surgical treatment involved removing the loose
bodies
5. Classification (by Smillie into 5 stages):
Tailor's Bunion
1. Etiology:
a. Any uncompensated varus position of the forefoot or rearfoot in a fully
pronated foot
b. A congenital plantarflexed 5th ray deformity
c. A congenital dorsiflexed 5th ray deformity
d. Idiopathic
e. Lateral deviation or wide 5th metatatarsal head
f. Combined influences
2. Clinical findings:
a. Prominence over the 5th metatarsal head with pain
b. Hyperkeratosis and erythema over the 5th metatarsal head area
c. 5th toe assumes a varus or adducto varus attitude
4. Surgical management:
1. Hohmann osteotomy: Single transverse osteotomy at the level of the
metatarsal neck with medial displacement of the capitol fragment
b. Oblique osteotomy from distal lateral to proximal medial with displacement
of the capital fragment proximally and medially (reverse Wilson procedure)
c. Modified Mitchell: Step down osteotomy
d. Austin type osteotomy: 2 mm of medial transposition
e. Mercado osteotomy: Medially based closing wedge osteotomy at the
metatarsal neck
f. Yancy osteotomy: Midshaft medially based closing wedge osteotomy
g. Gerbert et al osteotomy: Proximal diaphyseal closing wedge osteotomy
h. Buchbinder osteotomy: DRATO
i. McKeever: Partial metatarsal head resection
j. Kelikian: Partial metatarsal head resection with syndactylization of the 4th
and 5th toes
k. Distal oblique osteotomy with intramedullary K-wire fixation
NOTE* Excessive 5th metatarsal head resection results in laxity of the internal
cubic content of the joint leading to further varus or adducto varus
malalignment of the 5th toe, and more retrograde pressure on the 5th
metatarsal head
Splayfoot
As this deformity consists of high IM angles for the 1 st and 2nd , and 4th and
5th, surgical repair is focused on reducing the IM angles. This is accomplished
via a closing base wedge osteotomy of the 1 st metatarsal with AO fixation, and
distal oblique osteotomy of the 5th metatarsal with K-wire fixation.
Brachymetatarsia (Brachymetapody)
1. Etiology:
a. Congenital: Premature idiopathic closure of the distal epiphyseal growth
plate
NOTE* The congenital pattern has also been associated with neonatal
hyperthyroidism, pseudohypoparathyroidism, pseudo-
pseudohypoparathyroidism, malignancy, Down's syndrome, Albright's
syndrome, myositis ossificans, Turner's syndrome, sickle-cell anemia, Still's
disease, and enchondromatosis
b. Traumatic
c. Infectious
2. Clinical presentation:
a. Symptoms usually appear in adolescence when full growth discrepancy is
most apparent
b. In the younger patient the only complaint will be the appearance of a
shortened or "floating" toe
c. The adjacent toes underlap the involved toe
d. Calluses under the adjacent metatarsal heads with metatarsalgia
e. The amount of associated disability typically depends upon the amount of
weight that Is transferred to the adjacent metatarsal heads
f. A deep sulcus is present underneath the short metatarsal
3. Radiological findings:
a. Short, underdeveloped metatarsal with deficient bone content
b. Osteoporosis of the metatarsal head
4. Operative planning:
a. Consider the amount of length needed to restore the normal metatarsal
parabola
b. Must consider whether to lengthen and plantarflex the involved metatarsal or
shorten and dorsiflex the adjacent metatarsals
c. Soft tissue mobility and neurovascular status of the involved ray
d. Use of a bone graft either autogenous or allogeneic
5. Procedure:
a. Bone lengthening procedure (frontal plane "Z" osteotomy)
b. Insertion of corticocancellous bone graft
c. Extensor tenotomy
d. " V" to "Y" skin plasty
e. BK NWB cast until osseous healing
6. Complications:
a. Risk of neurovascular compromise
b. Non-union
c. Absorption or collapse of the graft
d. Painful pseudoarthrosis
e. Painful limitation of motion at the joint
Skewfoot
1. Description: A metatarsus adductus forefoot-type with a pathological
rearfoot valgus component
2. Etiology:
a. After serial casting for metatarsus adductus in which the rearfoot was in a
pronated position
b. Untreated metatarsus adductus which has compensated by excessive
subtalar joint pronation
c. Congenital metatarsus adductus with associated calcaneovalgus
3. Clinical evaluation:
a. The metatarsals are angulated medially
b. The base of the 5th metatarsal is prominent
c. A large space is noted between the hallux and 2nd toe
d. A metatarsus varus may be present
e. The digits are abducted in stance
f. Talar bulging (ptosis) on weight-bearing with low medial arch
g. Abducted midfoot position with internal rotation of the malleoli
h. Rearfoot equinus may be present
4. Types:
a. Simple skewfoot: An adducted forefoot with an abnormally pronated rearfoot
b. Complex skewfoot: An adducted forefoot, abducted midfoot, and abnormally
pronated rearfoot
5. Radiological evaluation:
a. Increased metatarsus adductus angle (MA angle greater than 21 °)
b. Increased cuboid abduction angle (greater than 5°)
6. Indications for surgery:
a. Too old for correction by conservative means
b. Deformity is increasing despite conservative treatment
c. Deformity is obviously not manageable by conservative means
d. Deformity is beginning to cause secondary deformities
e. Patient is experiencing painful compensatory symptoms
f. Patient is accommodating to life style because of related symptoms
g. Increased difficulty with standard shoegear
2. Dorsolateral
a. Sinus tarsi syndrome
b. Extensor digitorum brevis (myositis, avulsion)
c. Calcaneus anterior process fracture
3. Intracapsular:
a. Talar posterior (lateral) process fracture
b. Talar dome (osteochondral) defects
c. Intra-articular fibrous bands, hypertrophic synovitis, meniscoid bodies
4. Medial:
a. Tarsal tunnel syndrome
b. Posterior tibial tendon tendonitis, rupture
c. Flexor hallucis longus tendonitis
d. Os trigonum fracture
5. Other:
a. Ligamentous injury (instability) b. Traumatic DJD of STJ or ankle
3. Etiology: In the many cases no etiology can be found at the time of surgical
decompression.
a. Dilated posterior tibial veins: can also cause severe night discomfort.
b. Trauma: Fracture, dislocation, sprain, post-traumatic edema and fibrosis.
c. Systemic disease: Gouty arthritis with urate deposits, rheumatoid arthritis,
diabetes mellitus, and myxedema.
d. Space occupying lesions: Ganglions, neurofibromas, schwannomas, synovial
cysts, etc.
e. Hypertrophy of abductor hallucis muscle belly.
f. Biomechanical: excessive pronation
5. Diagnosis: Not always easy, as the signs are not always definitive
a. History of paresthesias
b. History of trauma
c. History of systemic disease
d. Hoffman-Tinel's sign: A tingling in region of the distribution of the involved
nerve with light percussion, results in paresthesias distal to the site of
percussion.
e. Valleix Phenomena: A nerve trunk tenderness above and below the point of
compression, with paresthesias proximal and distal to the point of percussion.
f. Turk's test: Application of a venous tourniquet to the lower extremity will
elicit positive symptoms on the affected side, by producing a venous occlusion.
g. Forced eversion of the foot.
h. Positive radiographic evidence of previous injury i. Positive lab studies for
any specific disease
j. EMG's and nerve conduction studies are only useful for late stage disease.
8. Complications:
a. Recurrence: due to fibrosis
b. Severing the PT artery : if done then tie off and prepare patient for
microvascular repair later.
c. Severing a nerve
d. Tenosynovitis
e. Hematoma
f. Wound dehiscence
2. Etiology:
a. Post traumatic:
i. Inversion ankle sprain
ii. Fibular fracture
iii. Calcaneal fracture
iv. Talar neck fracture
b. Biomechanical fault:
i. Pes piano valgus (stretching of the cervical ligament)
ii. Pes cavus
c. Systemic arthritic/metabolic:
i. RA
ii. Gout
iii. Seronegative arthropathies
3. Findings:
a. Subjective:
i. Diffuse pain on the lateral side of the foot
ii. Feeling of rearfoot instability especially on uneven terrain
iii. Dramatic relief of symptoms with an anesthetic block b. Objective:
i. Pain reproduced with direct pressure over the sinus tarsi
ii. Discomfort with forced inversion and plantarflexion
iii. X-rays normal
iv. Ankle joint is WNL
v. STJ motion painful but not limited
vi. MTJ motion mostly pain free
vii. Palpation of the intermediate dorsal cutaneous nerve and sural nerve
uneventful
viii. Palpation of the anterior talofibular and calcaneofibular ligaments is
uneventful
ix. Elicit pain by digital pressure on both sides of the sinus tarsi simultaneously
c. Diagnostic:
i. X-rays
ii. Diagnostic anesthetic block
iii. Arthrography of the posterior facet of the STJ
iv. Ankle stress films (to RIO ankle instability)
v. 3 phase bone scan to R/O fracture
vi. MRI to evaluate the soft tissues, fracture, and infectious disease or arthritic
process
vii. CT scan to R/O coalitions
4. Differential diagnosis:
a. Entrapment neuropathy of the intermediate dorsal cutaneous nerve
b. Entrapment neuropathy of the sural nerve
c. Damage to the anterior talofibular ligament d. Damage to the calcaneofibular
ligament
e. Peroneal tenosynovitis
f. DJD of the STJ (posterior or middle facet)
g. Coalition
h. Talar neck fracture
i. RA, gout, seronegative arthritides
j. Talar dome fractures
k. Space-occupying lesion
5. Treatment:
a. Conservative:
i. Injection of series of local anesthetic/steroid, once every 2 weeks x 3 times
ii. NSAID's
iii. Tape immobilization
iv. BK cast
v. Foot orthoses (if biomechanical)
vi. Physical therapy
b. Surgery: Sinus Tarsi evacuation as follows:
1. Transverse incision over the sinus tarsi 4 cm.
ii. Resection of portions of the extensor retinaculum, a fatty plug, the
cervical ligament, and a synovectomy of the adjacent middle and
posterior articulations of the STJ for a total distance of 2 cm.
iii. Evaluation of the STJ articulations (ATFL, CFL, and peroneals)
iv. Postop: Orthopedic shoe for 2 weeks, followed by physical therapy
NOTE* if the pain persists despite appropriate care then a STJ fusion or triple
arthrodesis is indicated
6. Complications:
a. Entrapment neuropathies
b. Avascular necrosis
c. Subtalar instability
Peroneal Subluxation
1. Clinical presentation:
a. Post-traumatic state: Evident after acute injury or later with a history of
recent antecedent trauma. The post-traumatic state represents:
i. Either a subperiosteal dissection of the superior peroneal retinaculum or
ii. An avulsion fracture of the fibula with the adherent superior peroneal
retinaculum and deep fascia
b. Chronic subluxing state with an insidious progression of pain about the
peroneals (not necessarily associated with trauma). This state represents:
i. A stretching, redundancy, or pouching of the superior peroneal retinaculum
and deep fascia permitting displacement of the peroneal tendons within an
intact compartment
NOTE* The key difference between the two forms of tendon dislocation is
based upon the relationship of the deep fascia and superior peroneal
retinaculum to the peroneal tendons and the distal fibula
2. Preoperative evaluation:
a. Patients selected for ankle fusion should be those for whom it will be
reasonable to expect a significant reduction in pain and deformity, and an
increase in activity
b. Evaluate integrity of adjacent joints (STJ and forefoot): To R/O the necessity
for a secondary STJ fusion or triple arthrodesis
c. Ankle joint is fused at right angle to the leg, and compensation for heel
height must then come from plantarflexion at the midtarsal and
tarsometatarsal joints
d. Stability at the knee joint is important in those patients undergoing a
pantalar fusion
e. Good bone stock a necessity
The above diagram shows the relationship of the anterior talo-fibular ligament to the calcaneo-
flbular ligament. This relationship is hard to recreate with any surgical procedure. This is why
there is limitation of STJ range of motion following stabilization surgery
1. Etiology:
a. Post-traumatic ligamentous disruption
b. Osteochondral dome fractures
c. Degenerative joint disease
d. Peroneal subluxation
e. Muscular weakness or paralysis
f. Talofibular meniscoid
g. Generalized ligamentous laxity
h. Tibio-fibular diastasis
i. Non-union of previous fracture
j. Poorly reduced/healed fracture
k. Fixed calcaneal varus
l. Tibial varum
m. Rigid plantarflexed 1st ray
2. Anatomy of the lateral ankle:
a. The peroneal muscles terminate in tendons proximal to the ankle joint and a
common synovial sheath surrounds the peroneals at this point above the ankle
and contains them in a fibro-osseous tunnel
b. Posterolaterally, they are contained by the superior peroneal retinaculum
and medially by the lateral ankle joint ligaments
c. At the level of the ankle joint the peroneus brevis lies anterior and deep
against the fibular groove, with the peroneus longus posterior
d. As the peroneus brevis tendon passes distally, below the tip of the fibula, it
turns anterior, plantar, and lateral, crossing the CFL superficially
e. As the peroneus longus passes distally it runs plantar and anteriorly, then
passes in an inferior tunnel formed by the inferior peroneal retinaculum at the
level of the peroneal tubercle of the calcaneus. The peroneus brevis tendon lies
in a similar tunnel superior to the tubercle on the calcaneus
f. The ATFL is intracapsular
g. The CFL, PTFL, and fibulotalocalcaneal (not always present) are
extracapsular
NOTE* Due to the angular relationships of the ATFL and the ankle, inversion
of the ankle is primarily resisted by the ATFL when the ankle is
plantarflexed, and by the CFL when the ankle is dorsiflexed
NOTE* Either dacron mesh (Dacron Cooley graft) or Marlex surgical mesh
(porous film) can be used as an adjunct in the repair of the lateral ligaments
2. Surgical repair:
a. Delayed primary repair
Ankle Equinus
Primary neuromuscular spasticity of the posterior muscle group needs to be
approached differently than a secondary acquired contracture of the
gastrocnemius. The goal of the surgery will also depend on the etiology.
The resulting gains in ankle joint dorsiflexion must be weighed against the loss
of a grade of muscle strength
1. Patient complaints:
a. Low back pain
b. Calcaneal apophysitis in children
c. Heel spur syndrome in adults
d. Arch pain
e. Inability to stand for long periods without pain/fatigue
f. Juvenile HAV
g. Digital contractures
2. Anatomy:
a. The gastrocnemius is a muscle spanning two joints, and forming the belly of
the calf attached by two heads to the femoral condyles, the medial head being
larger
b. The gastrocnemius and soleus are innervated by the tibial nerve from S1 and
S2
c. The soleus is a broad flat muscle deep to the gastrocnemius, arising from the
back of the head and the upper fourth of the posterior surface of the fibula.
d. The soleus joins with the gastrocnemius to form the tendo Achilles. At the
insertion, the gastrocnemius component usually comprises the lateral side of
the superficial surface and a small portion of the lateral aspect of the deep or
anterior surface of the tendon
e. Superficial to soleus are gastrocnemius and plantaris; deep are flexor
digitorum longus, flexor hallucis longus, tibialis posterior, and the posterior
tibial vessels and tibial nerve, all separated from soleus by the deep transverse
fascia
f. The plantaris arises in close association with the lateral head of the
gastrocnemius, has a small fusiform belly, that ends in a long slender tendon,
which crosses obliquely between gastrocnemius and soleus and runs along the
medial border of the tendo Achilles,-to be inserted with it. The plantaris limits
dorsiflexion of the ankle
g. The tendo Achilles is the thickest and strongest human tendon, surrounded
by a paratenon (highly vascular areolar tissue which bathes the tendon in
synovial fluid). The tendo Achilles attaches to the posteriorsuperior surface of
the calcaneus
h. The anatomy of the ankle joint is a modified ginglymus joint because in full
plantarflexion, the narrow posterior aspect of the trochlear surface of the talus
allows the frontal plane motion of inversion and eversion to occur in the mortise
(normal dorsiflexion should be 10-200, normal plantarflexion 30-500)
3. Muscular activity:
a. The muscles of the calf are the major plantarflexors, the gastrocnemius
also extends the knee, and the soleus steadies the leg on the foot in standing
b. Phasic activity of the triceps is from shortly after heel contact until just
before toe-off, all functioning to extend the knee during a normal gait
cycle (it does this through the soleus, by slowing the forward progression of the
tibia, thus allowing the femur to rotate over it, extending the knee joint)
c. The soleus fires at about 15%-20% of the stance phase of gait, slightly ahead
of the gastrocnemius
4. Pathomechanics:
a. In normal function, with the knee fully extended and the STJ in neutral
position, at least 100 of dorsiflexion of the foot to the leg are needed
b. When there is pronation past perpendicular, this shortens the origin to
insertion distance of the gastrocnemius (the distal aspect of the calcaneus
lowers, the midtarsal joint lowers to the ground, the calcaneal inclination angle
decreases) and over a period of time there is secondary adaptation, and the
amount of dorsiflexion is limited
c. With a primary equinus deformity at 50%-60% of midstance, with the hip
and knee extended, you cannot get 100 of dorsiflexion and, therefore, the
subtalar joint and midtarsal joints pronate to give more dorsiflexion (the oblique
axis of the MTJ gives more dorsiflexion than any other joint in the foot as it
compensates for the equinus
d. This midtarsal joint pronation will also induce the forefoot into a supinatus
deformity
NOTE* Tendon lengthening should not be done unless the etiology of the
equinus is absolutely certain because there will be an automatic loss of 10%
of its strength
5. Classification:
a. Uncompensated: The STJ remains supinated, therefore, the lack of
dorsiflexion at the ankle joint cannot be compensated by abnormal STJ and
MTJ pronation (the CP patient)
b. Fully compensated: Presents with STJ and MTJ pronation, seen as the
hypermobile flatfoot, with the rearfoot maximally everted to the floor and the
forefoot everted on the rearfoot (the most severe symptom complex). Creates a
spinal lordosis, excessive transverse plane motion about the knee, low back
pain, chondromalacia, exaggerated genu valgum, juvenile bunions, and digital
contractures
c. Partially compensated: The patient has sufficient combination of ankle joint
dorsiflexion and dorsiflexion about the oblique axis of the MTJ to permit heel
contact during the early portion of the stance phase of gait. However, there is
insufficient dorsiflexory motion to permit the leg to angulate 100 to the floor
later in stance. Early heel-off is seen during gait. Generally, with a partially
compensated equinus, the calcaneus will strike the floor but will evert only
minimally, and then will rapidly achieve an early heel-off
6. Etiologies:
a. Muscular (gastrocnemius equinus, gastrosoleus equinus)
ii. Congenital shortness: Toe walker for 1 st 6 months
iii. Acquired shortness: From casts, high-heeled shoes, excessive pronation
b. Osseous
i. Osseous equinus: Dorsal exostosis of the talar neck from a flat top talus (can
be from treatment of a clubfoot)
ii. Pseudoequinus (cavus foot type)
7. Clinical findings:
a. With the patient supine and the knee extended and the STJ in neutral
position, the foot is dorsiflexed. If dorsiflexion is less than 100 an ankle equinus
to exists
b. Silverskiold test is then used to differentiate gastrocnemius equinus from the
remaining types of posterior equinus: by flexing the patient's knee to a right
angle and again dorsiflexing the patient's foot. If more than 100 of dorsiflexion
is found a gastrocnemius equinus still exists. Thus after performing the
Silverskiold test there is still limitation of ankle joint dorsiflexion, other sources
of ankle joint dorsiflexion remain to be evaluated (either gastrosoleal equinus or
osseous equinus).
2. Attachments:
a. The plantar calcaneal tuberosity consists of 2 smaller tubercles, the larger,
the medial process, and the smaller the lateral process, separated by a sulcus.
b. The plantar aponeurosis is made up of a medial, central, and lateral band
(the central band being divided into a superficial and a deep plantar fascia).
c. The central band is attached to the medial process of the plantar tuberosity,
posterior and plantar to the origin of the flexor digitorum brevis.
d. The band divides into 5 slips as it approaches the digits (the superficial
stratum inserts into the skin of the transverse sulcus separating the digits from
the sole, and the deeper stratum divides into two slips which embrace the sides
if the flexor tendons and blend with the sheaths of these tendons).
e. The abductor hallucis originates from the medal tubercle of the calcaneal
tuberosity and plantar aponeurosis and extends along the medial side of the
foot until it inserts into the medial side of the proximal phalanx of the hallux.
f. The FDB attaches at the medial calcaneal tubercle just superior to the
plantar aponeurosis, and extends along the aponeurosis where it sends tendon
slips to the 4 lateral digits, with each tendon splitting into 2,
allowing the FDL to pass between them on its way to the distal phalanx (these
medial and lateral slips insert into the base of the middle phalanx)
g. The abductor digiti minimi originates at the medial and lateral tubercles of
the calcaneal tuberosity and plantar aponeurosis and extends along the lateral
aspect of the foot to insert into the lateral side of the base of the proximal
phalanx of the 5th toe
h. The long plantar ligament attaches at the medial and lateral tubercles of the
calcaneal tuberosity and extends across the plantar aspect of the calcaneus
where it branches into 4 ligamentous slips to the bases of the 4 lesser
metatarsals
i. Dorsally interconnecting the talus and calcaneus and in reinforcing the
functional subtalar joint are the interosseous talocalcaneal ligament (located in
the sinus tarsi) and the cervical ligament (located lateral to the sinus tarsi
j. Other ligaments include: the lateral, medial, and posterior talocalcaneal
ligaments, and the calcaneotibial and calcaneofibular portions of the collateral
ligaments of the ankle joint
k. The calcaneal dorsal surface has 3 facets, anterior, middle and posterior. The
posterior is the largest, separated from the middle by the sulcus calcanel (or
sinus tarsi when including the sulcus tali of the talus)
3. Innervation:
a. The tibial nerve gives off the medial calcaneal branches that innervates the
heel while continuing through the tarsal tunnel, and as it exits the tunnel it
divides into the medial and lateral plantar nerves
b. The lateral plantar nerve runs along the medial side of the lateral plantar
artery where it innervates the quadratus plantae and abductor digiti minimi
ms., and then divides into superficial and deep branches. The lateral plantar
nerve travels deep to the plantar aponeurosis as it leaves the tibial nerve from
the tarsal tunnel to travel distally and laterally and crosses the aponeurosis
where it inserts into the calcaneal tuberosity
c. The inferior calcaneal nerve branches from the lateral plantar nerve just
distal to the bifurcation of the tibial nerve into medial and lateral plantar nerve,
and courses between the abductor hallucis ms. and medial head of the
quadratus plantae ms., and continues laterally remaining 5.5 cm anterior to
the calcaneal tuberosity coursing between the FDB and long plantar ligament.
It finally crosses over the lateral head of the quadratus plantae and terminates
in the abductor digiti minimi ms.
2. Gout:
a. The calcaneus may be affected in gout by pressure erosion from adjacent
tophaceous deposits penetrating bone, classically producing wellmarginated
bony erosions with sclerotic margins and over-hanging edges
b. Mineralization of the calcaneus in gout is unaffected
4. Osteoporosis:
a. It is estimated that 30% of bone must be lost before osteoporosis can be
identified radiographically
b. It has been suggested by numerous authors that the calcaneus be used in
the evaluation of osteoporosis by grading changes (as bone mass diminished,
there was a reproducible change in the trabecular appearance which was
progressive as bone became more porotic)
6. Diabetes mellitus:
a. Periarticular calcifications of the calcaneus
b. Calcifications of the long plantar ligament
c. Osteophytosis of the calcaneus
d. Diabetic osteoarthropathy
e. Pathologic fractures
7. Hypertrophic osteoarthropathy:
a. Involves the clinical triad of clubbing of the nails, periostitis with new bone
formation, and arthritis. Often seen secondary to pulmonary neoplasms or
pulmonary suppurative conditions, bowel disorders, heart disorders, thyroid
disorders, and other conditions (some genetic)
b. It has been reported that the calcaneus has been involved with this disease,
manifesting itself with a band of increased density elevated from the lateral
aspect of the tuberosity, in the region of the calcaneo-cuboid joint (acute
periostitis with subperiosteal new bone formation)
9. Sarcoidosis:
a. Is a multisystem, multiorgan disorder of a autoimmune etiology and with
associated immunologic abnormalities, typified by the development of
noncaseating granulomas in various organs
b. Increased observance of HLA B8 antigen
c. Sarcoid arthropathy occurs 3-15%, and presents as an acute polyarthritis
d. This disease can affect the calcaneus with the symptom of heel pain.
Radiographically there can be cortical defects or cyst formation
11. Acromegaly:
a. Occurs secondary to an excessive amount of growth hormone present after
epiphyseal closure which results in excessive growth of various body parts,
(hands, feet, jaw, internal organs, etc.)
b. Clinical there is thickening of the skin (increased heel pad thickness)
NOTE* HLA B27 is thought to be linked to genes that regulate new bone
formation
4. Psoriatic arthritis
5. Treatment:
a. NSAIDs usually work well
b. Methotrexate may be used in severe cases of Reiter's syndrome and psoriatic
arthritis
c. Physical therapy
d. Orthoses
Heel Spurs (Heel Spur Syndrome)
1. Etiology:
a. Disease processes
b. Biomechanical abnormalities (physiologic reaction to constant stress forming
new connective tissue which eventually converts to bone) includes all types of
feet with an abnormal pronation component and even supinated foot types
NOTE* A heel spur (exostosis) need not be painful; it is only significant that
the patient has pain at the anatomic site and that we determine the pain is
caused by a mechanical abnormality and not to any other sources of heel
pain (heel spur syndrome). Abnormal pull of the plantar calcaneal
periosteum at the tuberosity causes separation of periosteum from bone and
an inflammatory reaction (hence pain). The pulled periosteum fills in forming
the spur. Hence, it is an adaptive response. No pull=no separation=no
inflammation=no pain. Once a spur forms and there is no new pull, etc.,
there is no pain despite the presence of a spur (barring fractures, etc.).
Pronation and supination place a twisting pull on the calcaneal periosteum
at the tubercles, hence spurs form.
2. Diagnosis:
a. Radiographically
b. Palpation with execution of the Hubscher maneuver over the medial band of
the plantar fascia
3. Bone tumors:
a. Solitary bone cyst: Most frequently seen bone lesion other than the heel
spur, found in the anteroinferior and lateral regions of the calcaneus. Can be
found as a result of pathologic fracture of the thin wall (“Fallen Fragment” sign
on x-ray)
b. Ewing's sarcoma and other sarcomas
c. Osteoid osteoma
d. Intraosseous lipoma
e. Giant cell tumor of bone
Tarsal Coalitions
It is usually a congenital anomaly that represents a failure of differentiation and
segmentation of primitive mesenchyme, which results in failure of joint
formation. These coalitions cause a limitation or absence of motion of the
involved joint and can affect the entire foot in gait
1. Classifications:
a. Intra-articular vs. extra-articular (usually accessory bone fusion)
b. Fibrous, cartilaginous, or osseous
c. Developmental pattern
d. Congenital or acquired (acquired cases include trauma, previous surgery,
infection, RA, and OA).
2. Types:
a. Talocalcaneal (fuses between the ages of 12-16): Talar beaking; broadening
lateral talar process; middle subtalar joint not visualized; asymmetric anterior
subtalar joint; "ball and socket" ankle joint. Usually the middle facet.
b. Calcaneonavicular (fuses between the ages of 8-12): Close approximation of
the calcaneus and navicular; irregularity and indistinctness of cortical surfaces;
hypoplastic head of the talus c. Talonavicular
d. Calcaneocuboid (rare)
4. Radiological Diagnosis:
a. Normal Harris Beath projections: the posterior and middle facets should be
present and parallel to each other. With a subtalar coalition the facets are no
longer parallel.
b. CT scanning provides the best diagnostic tool (it is the gold standard)
c. Calcaneonavicular coalitions can best be seen on the 45° medial oblique x-
ray
5. Treatment: Surgery
a. Calcaneonavicular coalition:
i. A modified Oilier approach
ii. Origin of the extensor digitorum brevis muscle belly is detached
proximally and reflected distally (bar now exposed)
iii. An osteotome or saw is used to resect the osseous segment (at least 1
cm of bone is removed)
iv. The EDB belly is now placed Into the defect created and then sutured to the
plantar medial aspect of the foot using Keith needles, nonabsorbable suture,
and button fixation
v. The wound is closed in layers
vi. A BK cast is applied for 4 weeks
Talocalcaneal coalition:
i. Conservative therapy 1 st since most of these are asymptomatic and when
symptomatic respond to conservative care.
• BK walking casts for 3-6 weeks
• Injection into the sinus tarsi with steroids
• Orthoses
ii. Surgery (resection of the bar vs. triple arthrodesis)
•Medial Incision for resection of middle facet coalition, with the incision starting
just behind the medial malleolus and following the top of the calcaneocuboid
joint
• The posterior tibial and FDL are retracted superiorly; the FHL and
neurovascular bundle are retracted inferiorly
• K-wires are used to locate the joint
• A rotary drill with a burr is used to resect the coalition
• If successful there will be an immediate increase in motion
Sever's Disease
Sever's disease was first described by Haglund who noted irregularities of the
calcaneal apophysitis, similar to those observed in osteochondrosis of the tibial
tuberosity. It is the only bone in the body whose epiphysis assumes the entire
weight before it is ossified
1. Secondary ossification:
a. First appears in females (ages 4-6) and later in males (ages 7-8)
b. It can be divided into a bipartite or tripartite apophysis
c. Fusion takes place as early a 12 years old in females and 15 years old in
males
2. Etiology:
a. Tension from the Achilles tendon and plantar fascia (equinus)
b. Acute and chronic trauma
c. Infection
d. Embolism
e. Stress fracture
f. Obesity
g. Congenital and hereditary factors
h. Endocrine disturbances
i. Diet disturbances
3. Symptoms:
a. Increased pain with activity especially sports
b. Demonstrable pain when the posterior aspect of the heel is squeezed from
side to side when direct pressure is exerted on the lower one-third of the
posterior calcaneus
2. Radiographic analysis:
a. Fowler-Phillip angle: 44°-69° is normal (>75° is pathologic)
NOTE* Since the calcaneal inclination angle can influence the usefulness of
the Fowler-Phillip angle, the C-I angle should, therefore, be taken into
account (see the following diagram)
3. Treatment:
a. Conservative: Removing pressure either with a heel lift or orthoses
b. Surgical:
i. Resection of the posteriosuperior border of the calcaneus and bursa
ii. Wedge (osteotomy with the base dorsally) is removed from the
proximal half of the calcaneus posteriorly to the posterior articular facet (the
vertical cuts to be two-thirds the height of the calcaneus, but through and
through from medial to lateral)
NOTE* The incision most commonly employed for both procedures is a lateral
para-Achilles tendon approach with the incision being linear, lazy "L", or
reversed "J" shaped
Causes of Heel Pain (a summary)
1. Inflammatory:
a. Juvenile RA
b. Rheumatoid arthritis
c. Ankylosing spondylitis
d. Reiter's syndrome
e. Gout
2. Metabolic:
a. Migratory osteoporosis
b. Osteomalacia
3. Degenerative:
a. Osteoarthritis
b. Atrophy of fat pad
4. Nerve entrapment:
a. Tarsal tunnel syndrome
b. Entrapment of the medial calcaneal branch of the PT nerve
c. Entrapment of the nerve to the abductor digiti quinti
5. Traumatic:
a. Calcaneal fractures
b. Calcaneal malunions
c. Traumatic arthritis
d. Rupture of the fibrous septae of the fat pad
e. Puncture of the fat pad
6. Overuse syndromes:
a. Plantar fasciitis
b. Stenosing tenosynovitis of the FDL and FHL
c. Calcaneal apophysitis
d. Subcalcaneal bursitis
e. Periostitis
f. Calcaneal stress fractures
g. Achilles tendonitis
h. Haglund's deformity
7. Infectious:
a. Osteomyelitis
8. Other:
a. Tumors
Chapter 31: Amputations
General Surgical Technique
Digital Amputations
MPJ Amputations
Transmetatarsal Amputations
Tarsometatarsal Amputations (Lisfranc's)
Midfoot Amputations (Chopart's)
Amputation of the Ankle (Syme's, Boyd, Pirogoff)
Below Knee Amputation
AMPUTATIONS
Amputation that includes disarticulation is an ancient surgical procedure, with
techniques that have evolved over the centuries. In the last 20 years research
and advances in surgical technique have led to a more scientific approach, so
that the indications are more exact, and the level of amputation is more distal.
The combined approach of vascular surgeon, podiatrist, and plastic surgeon
have helped prevent major amputations, or allowed amputations to be
performed more distally on the extremity, resulting in less morbidity and lower
mortality.
General Surgical Technique
1. Before surgery the general condition of the patient must be stabilized (control
of infection, blood sugar, hydration, etc.)
3. A tourniquet is used except in the presence of vascular disease, and the limb
is exanguinated if no infection or tumor is present
4. Flaps should be planned to provide sensate skin over the stump 5. The scar
must not adhere to the underlying bone
Digital Amputations
1. Indications:
a. In gangrene of the toes (need adequate proximal arterial flow)
b. Malignant or large, deforming, benign tumors of the digits
MPJ Amputations
1. Indications:
a. Severe trauma
b. Gangrene
2. Procedure:
a. A long posterior flap should be used and the dorsal incision made
approximately 1 cm distal to the MPJ
b. Specifically in the 1st ray, the flexor and extensor tendons and intrinsic
muscles should be sutured over the metatarsal head to prevent retraction of the
sesamoids to stabilize the 1 st ray (groove the met head to hold the tendons)
c. If the sesamoids are not present the prominence on the underside of the 1st
metatarsal head should be removed
d. After the articular cartilage of the 1st metatarsal is removed, the metatarsal
is beveled medially to provide better shape to the final amputation stump
e. Also the lateral third of the 5th metatarsal head should be removed with this
disarticulation
f. If there is a sub-metatarsal callus or ulceration present, a plantar
condylectomy should be performed
Transmetatarsal Amputations
1. Indications:
a. Ischemia
b. Gangrene
c. Osteomyelitis
d. Frostbite
e. Trauma
2. Procedure:
a. Can be single ray resection for the treatment of infection, and is most
successful in the 1 st and 5th ray
b. A racket incision with a dorsal limb
c. The metatarsals should be sectioned at the level of the dorsal skin incision,
in a line curving proximally from the medial side
d. Careful attention should be given to the digital nerves, and must be seen to
retract or a painful "stump" neuroma can develop
e. The plantar surface of the metatarsals should be beveled to allow better
weight distribution
1. Complications: This procedure has fallen into disfavor because muscle
imbalance resulted in severe equinus deformity. A tendo Achilles lengthening
and reattachment of the extensor tendons is recommended to prevent this
2. Boyd amputation: Part of the calcaneus is retained and fused to the lower
end of the tibia
2. Weightbearing:
a. The distal 1 /3 of the leg should be vertical
b. The knee, ankle, and STJ should lie in transverse planes parallel to the
supporting surfaces
c. The STJ should rest in its neutral position
d. A bisection of the posterior surface of the calcaneus should be vertical
e. The MTJ should be locked in a maximally pronated position about both its
axes
f. The plantar plane of the forefoot and rearfoot should be parallel to each other
and to the supporting surface
g. The central 3 metatarsals should be completely dorsiflexed and describe a
plane parallel to the supporting surface
h. The 1st and 5th metatarsals should describe a common transverse plane
with the central 3 metatarsals
NOTE* If the amount of dorsiflexion is less than or equal to 100 whether the
knee is extended or flexed, then there is an osseus or soleus equinus; if the
amount of dorsiflexion is decreased only with extention, then there is a
gastrocnemius equinus
NOTE* When there is a variance in the degree of neutral position between the
flexed and extended hip position, this indicates soft tissue abnormality limiting
hip rotation. This abnormality is called internal or External Femoral Rotation
Example of a 15° internal femoral position: Internal rotation with hip extended=
45° external rotation with the hip extended= 15°, total ROM=60° therefore,
neutral position with the hip extended=15° internal
Internal rotation with the hip flexed=45° external rotation with the hip
flexed=45°, total ROM=90° therefore neutral position with the hip flexed=0
NOTE* Lack of symmetry in total ROM between the flexed and extended
positions results in asymmetry of the neutral position measurement. This
indicates soft tissue abnormality at the hip.
2. Weight-bearing assessment:
a. Angle and base of gait:
i. The angle and base of gait are necessary to measure NCSP, RCSP and tibial
varum. This allows for standardization and reproducibility of values
ii. The angle of gait is the number of degrees that the foot is deviated from the
line of progression of gait (mid-sagittal plane of the body). Normally the foot is
between 7°-10° abducted from the line of progression
iii. The base of gait is defined as the space between the malleoli during
midstance (normally 1 & 1 /2 inches)
NOTE* With rearfoot varus the changes during gait are as follows: The knee
would function fully extended both at heel contact and during midstance. The
leg may be somewhat internally rotated at heel contact, and some internal
rotation would occur if STJ motion were available from this point. During the
latter half of stance phase normal external rotation of the leg occurs. Position of
the heel at contact would be inverted. If the rearfoot varus is not fully
compensated, the heel remains in an inverted position. The STJ is normally
supinated at heel contact
NOTE* Rearfoot varus is not a major pronator. It only allows pronation until the
heel is vertical
NOTE* The gait variations seen are as follows: The compensatory changes for
equinus are an early heel-off with the knee slightly flexed throughout the
stance phase of gait. The knee will be somewhat flexed at heel contact, the
flexion might increase during midstance, but it never fully extends at heel lift.
As the leg swings forward, it actually becomes hyperextended relative to the
femur and then begins to flex, and is flexed by the time the heel contacts the
ground. Rather than being an actual compensatory mechanism for equinus,
this seems to protect the knee from abnormal stress in a fully extended
position. In severe equinus the knee may go into hyperextention during the
stance phase of gait (back-knee function). The ankle will be at 90° at heel
contact unless the equinus is severe. Following foot flat, the ankle will then
dons flex to the limit of its ROM, at which time heel-off will occur (the earlier the
heel lift, the sooner the load to the forefoot, the more stress induced
symptomatology there is. The STJ will typically be neutral or slightly inverted
at heel contact.
Planes of Motion
There are three planes of motion in the body, one perpendicular to the other
two, corresponding to the three dimensions in space. The position is one with
the body erect, elbows extended, palms facing forward, _and feet slightly
separated and parallel
1. Sagittal plane: A vertical plane passing through the body from front to back,
dividing it into right and left half. The cardinal plane divides the body into equal
symmetrical halves
2. Frontal plane: A vertical plane passing through the body from side to side,
dividing it into a front and back half. The cardinal frontal plane passes through
the center of gravity dividing the body into equal but asymmetrical halves
3. Transverse plane: This is a horizontal plane, which passes through the body
from side to side and from front to back, dividing it into an upper and lower
half. The cardinal transverse plane passes through the center of gravity and
divides the body into equal but asymmetrical halves
NOTE* Due to slight deviations in the transverse frontal axis of the ankle joint
we will see transverse plane motion of abduction and adduction
d. Subtalar: The axis is oblique to all 3 body planes which allows for triplanar
motion (pronation and supination). Pronation allows the motion of abduction,
eversion, and dorsiflexion. Supination allows for adduction, inversion, and
plantarflexion
i. Subtalar joint axis passes from a plantar, posterior, lateral direction to a
dorsal, anterior, medial direction. It enters the heel and exits through the
dorsomedial surface of the talar neck
ii. The axis is directed 42° from the transverse plane and 16° from the sagittal
plane
iii. As the axis is deviated 42° from the transverse plane positioning it
approximately equidistant from being completely vertical or completely
horizontal, and equal amount of transverse and frontal plane motion will occur
(i.e. Equidistant from both the frontal and transverse planes)
iv. Additionally, as the axis is deviated 16° from the sagittal plane, this allows a
minimal amount of dorsiflexion and plantarflexion
v. The normal values for passive ROM from neutral is 20-35° of inversion to 10-
15° of eversion for a total ROM of 30-35°
NOTE* The digital MPJ's contain 2 axes, a transverse and a vertical. While
the vertical axis allows for transverse plane motion, it is the transverse axis
which allows for dorsiflexion/plantarflexion to occur. The transverse axis
moves in a dorsal-proximal direction with MPJ dorsiflexion. The first MPJ
must allow for 65% of joint dorsiflexion. The joint acts as a ginglymus joint
for the initial 25° of dorsiflexory motion, and acts as arthrodial joint with the
first metatarsal plantarflexing for and MPJ dorsiflexion after the Initial 25°
iv. The average ROM is 5 mm for dorsiflexion and 5mm for plantarflexion
NOTE* The term "degrees of freedom" refers to the number of axes a joint
has. While the ankle and most joints of the foot have one degree of freedom,
the MPJ's and the MTJ each have 2 axes and thus 2 degrees of freedom
NOTE* While the bony femur is untwisting after birth, there is a simultaneous
inward rotation of the thigh (anteversion) in the region of the hip. The bony
external twisting (torsion) is being neutralized by the inward rotation of the
thigh to align the extremity for forward progression
2. Axial Deformities:
a. Tibial torsion: Normally 18-23° (external) in the adult. Measured by malleolar
torsion which is 5° less
i. Etiology: Soft tissue origin? osseous origin ?
ii. Treatment: The decision whether to treat or not is determined by the degree
of the deformity (if any), and the age of the child. In the infant with rigid tibial
torsion, serial-above knee casting is effective, followed by maintenance with a
Ganley splint or D-B bar
3. Femoral torsion:
a. Anteversion (medial femoral torsion): Is an axial deformity within the neck
and shaft of the femur, resulting in a medial functioning knee
i. Normal femoral alignment at birth is approximately 35-40° of anteversion,
which gradually derotates to the adult alignment of 12-15°
ii. Any delay in this progression should be considered abnormal and treated
owing to positional imbalance caused by soft tissue constraints and the
adaptability of the epiphysis to external forces. It is usually seen is the older
female child and manifested by the "reverse tailor's" sitting position
iii. With this, there is a persistent medial effect of the femoral growth plate
iv. Examination reveals excessive medial angle of the femur associated with a
limited lateral range of motion suggestive of femoral anteversion
v. Treatment:
• In the older child who presents with a knock knee conformation and who,
on examination, shows excessive medial femoral ROM, treatment initially
consists of change in sitting habits
• Later (if necessary) a Ganley femoral derotation splint (this splint is of
benefit in the 4-8 year child with excessive medial ROM)
• In true persistent osseous anteversion in the older child a femoral
derotation osteotomy or epiphyseal stapling may be necessary
NOTE* The treatment approach to femoral problems has been difficult since
any splinting device attached to the feet or legs is nullified once the knee flexes
4. Angular deformities:
a. Knock knee (genu valgum): An angular problem found more often in the
obese female child, it also may be associated with coxa vara, and is often the
visual result of the proximal axial problems of medial and lateral femoral
torsion. These changes are often associated with torsional changes of the lower
leg and valgus foot deformity. Depression of the lateral tibial condyle in
persistent knock-knee in the older child may also lead to soft tissue strain often
reflected as quadriceps and calf pain. This can lead to DJD in the adult
i. Etiology:
• Physiologic
• Medial femoral torsion
• Lateral femoral torsion
• Anteversion syndrome (Kleiger)
• Trauma: microtrauma (Hueter-Volkman law of epiphyseal response to
pressure states that increased pressure across the epiphyseal plate will
decrease the rate of growth), direct trauma, infection
b. Bowleg (genu varum): May, be associated with coxa valga
i. Types:
• Physiologic: noted at birth
• Rickets: result of vitamin D deficiency causing a disturbance in the
metabolism of phosphorous and calcium
• Osteochondritis deformans tibiae (Blount's disease): an angulation is
noted only at the proximal tibia causing a characteristic "beaking" of the medial
tibial plateau. This disease shows fragmentation of the proximal tibial
metaphysis and may not become evident before 24-30 months of age.
Additionally, infants with a metaphyseal-diaphyseal angle of 110 or greater
(created from the intersection of a bisection of tibial and a bisection of the
femur) will eventually develop Blount's disease
ii. Midstance period (40% of stance): Foot flat begins midstance, when it singly
bears the body weight (single support), and the alternate foot is in the swing
phase. The key locomotor events of midstance are:
• Conversion of the foot from a mobile adaptor to a rigid lever for
propulsion. The primary condition for a rigid lever to occur is STJ supination
(when this does not occur you have all types of problems (i.e. flatfoot). This
leads to a poor propulsive unit
• A decrease in vertical ground reaction force to about 75% of body weight,
but begins to increase again prior to heel lift
• Continued external leg rotation
• The contralateral limb is in swing phase
• STJ supination as a result of external leg rotation and the supinating calf
muscles (especially the posterior tibial and swinging limb). The foot passes
through STJ neutral shortly before heel lift. From this point on, the STJ is
supinated
NOTE* During midstance the STJ is still pronated but starts supinating to
convert the foot to a rigid lever
iii. Propulsive period (33% of stance): Continuation of the forward shifting body
results in heel lift and the initiation of the propulsive period, whereby the
weight is shifted to the forefoot and at the end, opposite foot regains contact
with the ground by heel strike. The key locomotor events of propulsion are:
• Continued STJ supination which increases skeletal rigidity and creates a
rigid lever
• Continued external leg rotation
• Second peak vertical ground reaction force (about 125% of body weight)
• Shift of forefoot weightbearing from lateral to medial
• The opposite foot begins to bear weight just after lateral to medial shift
and by toe-off the opposite foot is in full contact phase
b. Swing phase (38% of gait): That portion of the gait cycle when the foot is off
the ground. During swing the foot pronates first and then supinates. The key
events of swing phase are:
• During swing, the foot is transported from one step to the next
• The leg continues to externally rotate momentarily after toe-off. Then it
begins an internal rotation during the swing
• Pronation of the foot to aid ground clearance and then resupination to
prepare for contact
• Ankle joint dorsiflexion, and hip/knee flexion to shorten the length of the
leg (there would be a tremendous amount of pelvic motion during gait if there
were no mechanisms to flex and shorten the leg length)
c. Double support: Both feet are in ground contact at the beginning and end of
each stance phase in the walking gait. Both feet are on the ground 25% of the
gait cycle (0-12% and then again from 50-62% of the entire gait cycle)
NOTE* The gluteus maximus (the largest and most powerful of lower extremity
muscles) contributes to hip extensor stabilization
c. Stance phase muscle action: In the contact period, those muscle groups that
decelerated and stabilized these joints at heel strike continue to perform these
functions until the foot achieves full foot support. At midstance most of the
weight-support functions are managed by bone and ligament, requiring little
primary muscular action. As. the body moves over the standing foot, the limb
externally rotates in all segments down to the ankle. This rotation is a reaction
both to subtalar supination and to medial rotation of the opposite limb swing
phase. After the stance limb passes beneath the hip joint, the hamstrings are
again activated to help extend it
3. Ankle motion:
a. Motions in gait: Functions on a pronatory/supinatory joint axis with the
majority of motion consisting of sagittal plane dorsiflexion and plantarflexion.
Any rotation of the leg carries the talus with it when the foot is off the ground,
and any subtalar action involving the talus affects leg rotation when the foot is
weight bearing
b. Dorsiflexors: Dorsiflexion occurs from late contact to the propulsive period,
whose action is the result of kinetic forces of the body moving over the limb.
The 4 anterior crural tendons pass anterior to the transverse axis of the ankle
joint, and therefore dorsiflex the ankle. Distally, the tendons pass to either side
of the subtalar and midtarsal joint axes where the tendon passing medially
(tibialis anterior) exerts an inverting force, supinating the STJ and MRJ axes.
The tendons passing laterally (EDL, peroneus tertius) exert an everting force
(these apply a pronatory force to the STJ and MTJ longitudinal axes). The
anterior crurals function mainly during swing to dorsiflex the foot to clear the
ground. The toe extensors begin to act at the end of the propulsive. period,
when they help stabilize the toes. They are joined by the tibialis anterior and
peroneus tertius, and together lift. the foot at toe off. After heel strike, they
decelerate the foot while it is lowered to the ground.
NOTE* The tibialis anterior is the main dorsiflexor because of its insertion at
the base of the first ray, and acts together with the EHL in elevating the first
ray and hallux above the groung during swing (its insertion is also medial to
the STJ and MTJ axes making it an effective supinator, and invertor during
dorsiflexion)
NOTE* Summary of anterior aural function: They become active at toe-off to
dorsifex the foot. They remain active throughout swing, and show a peak
activity at heel strike as they decelerate the forefoot as it strikes the ground.
They are active for the first 10% of stance
NOTE* Summary of posterior aural function: The, triceps surae are active
during the middle of stance phase. They begin to fire during contact and
terminate during propulsion in order to achieve heel-off
5. Forefoot motion:
a. Motions in gait: Stability in the forefoot begins to develop in the latter part of
midstance when the foot is supinating, the MTJ is locked, and the tarsal and
metatarsal bones are in a close packed position. At heel lift, the foot forms a
lever from the plantarflexing ankle joint to the met heads that form its fulcrum.
The MPJ's are transversely stabilized while the toes are firmly braced against
the ground forming a stable platform for the fulcrum. The loaded extension at
these joints activates the windless effect of the plantar fascia, which is
stretched by its attachment to the MPJ and hallux
b. Extrinsic muscle action. The FHL continues to act almost until toe off as the
hallux is the last part of the foot to leave the ground and requires a longer
period of stabilization than do the lesser toes. The tibialis posterior and the
peroneals compress the metatarsal bases as well as the tarsal bones. The
peroneus longus stabilizes the 1 st ray through the propulsive period
c. Intrinsic muscle action: The main function of the intrinsic muscles of the foot
is to transversely and axially stabilize the digits against the metatarsal heads
and against ground reaction forces. All intrinsic muscles begin to contract in
midstance and most continue throughout the propulsive period. Transverse
stabilization of the toes is accomplished by the plantar and dorsal interossei.
The dorsal interossei are bipennate and 4 in number, originating from the
corresponding adjacent sides of their respective intermetatarsal spaces. The
first dorsal interosseous attaches medially into the base of the proximal
phalanx of the second toe while the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th attach laterally into digits
2, 3, and 4. The plantar interossei are unipennate. These three muscles attach
medially into the 3rd, 4th, and 5th digits and originate from the medial aspect
of their respective metatarsals. Their combined action resists displacement of
the toes to either side. Transverse stability of the hallux is provided by the
abductor hallucis on one side and adductor hallucis on the other side. The
abductor digiti minimi mimics the function and attachment of the dorsal
interosseus on the lateral side of the 5th toe. The FHB, FDB and flexor digiti
minimi brevis act synchronously with the long flexors, stabilizing the toes
against the ground. The flexor digiti minimi brevis attaches laterally into the
5th toe, as a unipennate muscle and functions with the interossei to provide
transverse plane digital stability. The interossei are stance phase muscles and
function to plantarflex the MPJ's against the retrograde dorsiflexing buckling
force that accompanies the FDL and FDB contraction. The axial tension of the
FDL is aided by the quadratus plantae. The lumbricals are 4 muscles
originating from the medial aspect of the corresponding FDL slip, and attaching
medially into the base of the extensor hood of the lesser toes, as they pass
plantar to the deep transverse metatarsal ligament. These have been described
as swing phase muscles, stabilizing the MPJ's plantarly while assisting in
extending the PIPJ's and DIPJ's, limiting excessive swing phase contraction.
This provides a stable insertion to allow the EDL to be an important dorsiflexor
of the ankle during swing phase of gait
NOTE* The greatest combined effect of all these muscles is achieved in
conjunction with the extensor expansion mechanism, which links the IPJ's &
the MPJ's in each toe so that tension on the long extensor extends a row of
digital joints at a time
NOTE* Summary: The abductor digiti minimi and EDB become active at about
30% of stance, the FHB, abductor hallucis, and FDB become active at about
40%, 50% and 60% of stance respectively, and the interossei become active at
about 25% of stance. Activity of all these muscles ceases near toe-off
d. Muscles acting on the 1st ray and hallux: During supination in the
midstance period, the peroneus longus is uniquely significant in plantarflexing
the 1st ray. The FHL assists in supination during the earlier part of midstance,
plantar stabilization of the, metatarsal head together with the action of the
peroneus longus, and stabilization of the hallux in propulsion
Observation of Gait
1. Stance phase:
a. Posterior view:
i. Contact:
• Heel contact is inverted but rapidly everts
• Contact is slightly lateral to the midline of the heel
i. Midstance:
Posterior bisection of the posterior of the heel goes from everted to vertical
i. Propulsion:
• Posterior bisection of the heel inverts as heel lifts
b. Lateral view:
i. Contact:
• Posterior portion of the heel strikes the ground with the foot dorsiflexed
on the ankle
• Plantarflexion of the ankle begins slightly after contact
• At contact the knee is extended and flexes rapidly for shock absorption
ii. Midstance:
• Ankle dorsiflexion of 5°-10° as the body weight passes over the planted
foot
• Knee returns to full extension
• Late midstance heel lifts as the trunk passes over the planted foot,
literally peeling the heel up from the floor
iii. Propulsion:
• Ankle plantarflexes to facilitate toe-off
• Knee flexion as the trunk advances further
c. Anterior view:
i. Contact:
• Forefoot is markedly inverted as the heel contacts the ground
• Leg is slightly inverted
ii. Midstance:
• Forefoot has everted bringing the metatarsals to the ground. The forefoot
is loaded 5-4-3-1-2 or 5-4-3-2-1- depending upon the metatarsal length and
muscle functioning
• Leg is slightly internally rotated
iii. Propulsion:
• Marked dorsiflexion of the MPJ's
• Lateral digits lift-off first
• Body weight passes through the center of the hallux
• Leg externally rotated
2. Swing phase:
a. Lateral view:
i. Trunk muscles advance the leg forward
ii. Ankle dorsiflexion to decrease leg length
iii. Hip and knee flexion to assist in shortening
To find the neutral position of this STJ we need to find the point from which
there is twice as much supination as there is pronation. In this case the
neutral position is 2° inverted, as from this point there is 100 of pronation and
20° of supination available
NOTE* Another method for calculation is: Total ROM- Eversion = Neutral
3
If the resulting number is (+), then there is a varus or neutral position
If the resulting number is (-), then the resulting number is valgus or neutral
ii. To calculate NCSP: Add the tibial varum component to the neutral position
measurement
Tibial varum is 1 ° (left) + 30 varus (left)= 40 rearfoot varus (left)
Tibial varum is 1 ° (right) + 0° (right)= 1° rearfoot varus (right)
iii. To calculate the RCSP: Since these values indicate a rearfoot varus
component, this individual will compensate at the STJ to bring the calcaneus
perpendicular to the ground, by using all STJ pronatory ROM that it needs (the
pronatory ROM of the STJ is 1/3 the total ROM or 6°).
On the right the NCSP= 1° varus so the RCSP= 0°
On the left the NCSP= 40 varus, so the RCSP= 0° (using 2/3 available pronatory
ROM)
b. Example 2:
Maximum calcaneal inversion 16° (right), 15° (left), maximum calcaneal
eversion 2° (right), 3° (left), tibial varum 30 (right), 2° (left)
i. Calculate the neutral STJ position:
Total ROM (right)= 18° Total ROM (left)= 18°
18-3 x 2= 12° (bilateral) inversion from neutral
16°- 12°= 40 varus (right), 15°- 12°= 30 varus (left) neutral position
iii. To calculate the RCSP: Know that 1/3 the total STJ ROM is 6°. 7° rearfoot
varus (right)- 6° (1/3 available pronation)= 1° RCSP (right)
5° rearfoot varus (left)- 6° (1/3 available pronation)= 0° RCSP (the STJ still has
1° more of available compensatory motion left)
NOTE* Forefoot varus is compensated (mostly) by STJ pronation, and
minimally by some MTJ pronation. If the amount of forefoot varus is 3° or less,
the STJ will only compensate that sped lc number of degrees. lf, however, the
forefoot varus is greater than 3° the STJ will (usually) maximally pronate to the
end of its ROM. Therefore it will pronate more than the number of degrees
required to bring the forefoot's medial surface into contact with the ground. The
reason the STJ maximally pronates with a forefoot varus deformity greater
than 3° is that once the calcaneus is everted more than 3° the force of the
body's weight pushes it to the end of the STJ's pronatory ROM. If, however, the
STJ cannot completely compensate the forefoot varus deformity, then and only
then will the MTJ pronate to help with the compensation (on the longitudinal
axis), leading to first ray dorsiflexion and inversion
NOTE* In a rearfoot valgus greater than 2° the body weight on the everted
calcaneus will cause the STJ to pronate to the end of its ROM. A rearfoot
valgus of less than 2° does not change the STJ position from the NCSP. If a
greater than 10° rearfoot valgus exists, the head of the talus will usually
plantarflex toward the ground before the STJ completely pronates. While this
produces a severe flatfoot, the STJ may not be pronated to the end of its ROM
NOTE* The bones of the STJ move around the STJ's axis of motion, and if any
motion takes place in a bone which is proximal to that axis, the motion will be
in the opposite direction of the named major motion.
b. In CKC STJ pronation, the calcaneus will still evert, but the talus will
plantarflex and adduct
c. In CKC STJ supination, the calcaneus will invert and the talus dorsiflex and
abduct (the talus abducts and dorsiflexes because it is proximal to the STJ joint
axis) (transverse plane talar excursion reflects the transverse plane movement
of the leg)
NOTE* During the contact period (STJ pronation) the calcaneus is everting,
while the talus is plantarflexing and adducting. During midstance and
propulsion the calcaneus is inverting while the talus abducts and dorsiflexes
(STJ supination)
d. Internal rotation of the tibia is associated with CKC STJ pronation, and the
converse is true with CKC STJ supination
e. The 2 major functions of CKC pronation are shock absorption and adapting
to uneven terrain
NOTE* Since 2 planes of motion occur about the MTJ oblique axis, it is
necessary to know which motions are coupled. As the axis is a pronatory/
supinatory axis, the following occurs by necessity:
a. With plantarflexion: adduction also occurs
b. With dorsiflexion: abduction also occurs
NOTE* The MTJ's total ROM is dependent upon the STJ's position. The axes of
the articular facets are just about parallel when the STJ is maximally
pronated. This allows for a certain congruity to the 2 joints (T-N and C C joints).
As the STJ goes from a maximally pronated position toward a more supinated
position, the axis of the 2 joints progressively diverge from one another,
congruity is lost, and with it ROM decreases
c. The MTJ longitudinal axis has an average ROM of 4°-6° (ROM of the oblique
axis is unknown)
d. When the STJ is maximally pronated, the MTJ's ROM is increased and the
forefoot becomes mobile. When the STJ is maximally supinated the MTJ's ROM
is decreased and the forefoot inverts with the rearfoot
Chapter 33: Anatomy
Neuroanatomy
Angiology
Myology
Arthrology
ANATOMY
Neuroanatomy
1. Femoral nerve:
a. Formed from the ventral rami of lumbar nerve roots (L2, L3, and L4)
b. Divides into anterior and posterior division (the posterior division gives rise
to the saphenous nerve which supplies cutaneous innervation to the medial leg
and foot)
2. Sciatic nerve:
a. Formed from the ventral rami of lumbar and sacral nerve roots (L4, L5, S1,
S2, and S3)
b. The largest nerve of the body
c. Divides into its terminal branches, the tibial and common peroneal nerve
d. Supplies all musculature of the leg and foot (except 'for that supplied by the
saphenous nerve)
NOTE* The 1st and 2nd dorsal interossei receive additional innervation from
the deep peroneal nerve
Angiology
1. The arteries: Blood flows from the left ventricle of the heart, through the
ascending aorta, aortic arch, descending aorta, thoracic aorta, and abdominal
aorta. In the lower abdomen, the aorta divides into paired common iliac
arteries. Each common iliac artery divides distally into internal and external
iliac arteries. The external iliac artery becomes the femoral artery as it passes
under the inguinal ligament,
a. Femoral artery: Courses through the medial thigh through the femoral
triangle into the adductor canal
b. Deep femoral (profunda femoris): The last branch of the femoral artery before
leaving the femoral triangle
c. Popliteal: When the deep femoral crosses over the medial femur it then
becomes the popliteal and continues to the lower border of the popliteus where
it divides into anterior and posterior tibial (before its bifurcation it gives off a
sural branch which is the only source of blood to the gastrocnemius)
d. Anterior tibial: Branches off the popliteal artery at the level of the soleal line,
travels into the anterior compartment of the leg, lies between the tibialis
anterior and EDL muscle bellies in the proximal 1/3 of the leg. Immediately
above the the ankle joint the EHL tendon crosses over the anterior tibial artery
and at this level the artery is found between the EHL and EDL. The anterior
tibial artery can terminate as the dorsalis pedis or becomes insignificant before
reaching the ankle joint, and if this happens, the dorsalis pedis will be absent
or arise as a branch of the perforating peroneal artery
i. Branches of anterior tibial artery
• Posterior recurrent tibial
• Anterior recurrent tibial
• Muscular branches (to the tibialis anterior, EDL, EHL, peroneus tertius,
and muscles of the deep posterior compartment of the leg)
• Anterior medial malleolar (superficial and deep branches)
• Anterior lateral malleolar (transverse portion meets with branches from
perforating peroneal; descending portion anastomoses with the descending
retromalleolar branch of the peroneal artery)
e. Dorsalis pedis: Begins as it crosses the ankle joint continuous with the
anterior tibia] artery, and gives off branches
i. Branches of the dorsalis pedis
• Medial branches (medial tarsal arteries)
• Lateral branches (artery to the sinus tarsi, lateral tarsal, arcuate, anterior
perforating, 4th dorsal metatarsal, and 1 st dorsal metatarsal artery)
f. Posterior tibial: Branches off the popliteal artery at the level of the soleal line,
remains within the posterior compartment of the leg, runs superficial to the
tibialis posterior proximally and over the FDL distally as it descends into the
medial ankle into the 3rd compartment of the flexor retinaculum, and
bifurcates into medial and lateral plantar arteries while in the 3rd compartment
deep to the muscle belly of the abductor hallucis
i. Branches of the posterior tibial artery
• Circumflex fibular
• Peroneal (gives off muscular branches, perforating branch,
communicating branch, posterior peroneal, anterolateral transverse branch,
collateral branch, and recurrent calcaneal branches)
• Nutrient artery (supplies the tibia)
NOTE* This is the largest nutrient artery in the body
• Muscular branches (to the soleus, FDL, FHL, and tibialis posterior)
• Communicating artery
• Posterior Medial malleolar
• Medial calcaneal
• Artery of the tarsal canal
g. Medial plantar: Smaller of the 2 terminal branches of the posterior tibial and
gives rise to 2 branches (supplies the abductor hallucis, FDB, 1st dorsal
interosseous)
i. Branches of the medial plantar artery:
• Superficial branch (gives rise to medial marginal plantar artery of the
hallux and the common plantar digital artery)
• Deep branch (divides into a medial and lateral branch)
NOTE' This artery serves as a landmark, separating the 3rd and 4th muscle
layers of the plantar aspect of the foot
2. The veins: Two sets of veins are found in the lower extremity, superficial
and deep. Most arteries are associated with a pair of deep veins (venae
commitantes). Valves are present in the veins, but are more numerous in the
deep veins. The valves are located at the termination of the great and small
saphenous veins, above and below the knee and ankle joints, and in the leg.
Perforating veins connect superficial veins to deep veins
a. Superficial veins:
i. Dorsal digital veins
ii. Dorsal venous arch
iii. Superficial plantar veins
iv. Greater saphenous vein
v. Lesser saphenous vein
b. Deep veins:
i. Deep dorsal venous network
ii. Deep venous plantar network
iii. Medial and lateral plantar vein
iv. Femoral vein
3. The lymphatics:
a. Lymph nodes: The largest group of lymph nodes are found in the inguinal
region, and are divided into superficial and deep
i. Superficial nodes: There are 2 groups of superficial nodes totalling 1525 in
number
ii. Deep nodes: 1 to 3 in number, found in the femoral canal and occasionally
medial to the femoral vein, where the great saphenous vein drains into it
Myology
1. Osteofascial compartments of the leg
a. Anterior
i. Boundaries: Anterior and laterally by the crural fascia, medially by the tibia,
posteriorly by the fibula. and interosseous membrane
ii. Contents: tibialis anterior, EHL, EDL, peroneus tertius, anterior tibial artery
and veins, deep peroneal nerve
b. Lateral
i. Boundary: Laterally is the crural fascia, posteriorly by the peroneal
septum, medially by the fibula, and anteriorly by the anterior peroneal septum
ii. Contents: peroneus longus and brevis
c. Posterior (divided into superficial and deep) i. Superficial
• Boundaries: Medially/laterally/posteriorly by the crural fascia, and
anteriorly by the deep transverse intermuscular septum
• Contents: Gastrocnemius, soleus, and plantaris
ii. Deep
• Boundaries: Posteriorly by the deep transverse intermuscular septum,
laterally by the fibula, and medially by the tibia
• Contents: FDL, FDB, tibialis posterior, posterior tibial artery and vein,
and tibial nerve
The gastrocnemius passes across 3 joints (knee, ankle, STJ) The soleus passes
across 2 joints (Knee and ankle)
b. Plantar compartments of the foot: Are divided into medial, central and lateral
i. Central compartment: Is the largest and contains 4 fascial spaces
• Contains tendons of the FDL, tibialis posterior, peroneus longus, and
FDB, flexor accessorius, 4 lumbricales, and adductor hallucis
ii. Medial compartment:
• Contains the tendons of insertion of the tibialis posterior and FHL and
muscle bellies of the adductor hallucis and FDB
iii. Lateral compartment:
• Contains the abductor digiti minimi, flexor digiti minimi brevis, and
opponens
NOTE* Just proximal to the MTPJ the tendon to each toe divides longitudinally
to allow passage of the FDL. It reunites to form a grooved channel for the FDL
under the proximal phalanx, and then divides again at the head of the
proximal phalanx into 2 tendons
NOTE* All intrinsic muscles of the 2nd layer are related to tendons of the FDL
which pass through it
c. Third layer:
i. Flexor hallucis brevis: Has a "Y" shaped configuration
• Origin: Originates from the medial aspect of the plantar surface of the
cuboid (stem), the lateral and plantar aspects of the 3rd cuneiform (lateral arm),
peroneus longus sheath, (lateral arm), tibialis posterior to the 3rd cuneiform
and cuboid (lateral arm), and tendinous slips of the tibialis posterior to the
metatarsal bases (medial arm)
• Insertion: 2 heads of insertion into the plantar plate of the 1st MTPJ and
sesamoid area, then passes forward to insert with the tendon of the abductor
hallucis into the base of the proximal phalanx
• Vascular supply: 1st plantar metatarsal artery
• Innervation: Medial plantar nerve
• Functions: Statically it aids the hallux in flexion. Dynamically (stance
phase) it stabilizes the base of the proximal phalanx of the hallux against the
ground during propulsion, assists in stabilizing the entire hallux against the
ground, and assists in stabilizing the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd metatarsals at the
metatarsocuneiform joints during propulsion
ii. Adductor hallucis: This consists of 2 different muscle bellies of origin
(oblique and transverse heads)
• Origin: Oblique head from the medial sides of the shafts and bases of
metatarsals 2-4, adjacent portions of associated cuneiforms, and peroneal
sheath. The transverse head originates from the deep transverse metatarsal
ligaments, plantar plates, joint capsules, and plantar metatarsal ligaments 3-5
MTPJs
• Insertion: Both heads insert by a common tendon which inserts into a
bony prominence on the inferolateral aspect of the base of the proximal phalanx
of the hallux with the tendon of the lateral head of the FHB
• Vascular supply: 1 st plantar metatarsal artery
• Innervation: Deep branch of the lateral plantar nerve
• Functions: Statically flexes hallux. Dynamically the oblique head is a
stance-phase muscle that stabilizes the hallux in an adductory direction as well
as a posterior direction against the metatarsal head and assists in stabilizing
the proximal phalanx against the ground during propulsion. The transverse
head is a stance-phase muscle that prevents elongation of the deep transverse
metatarsal ligament, and transverse stability to the forefoot at the MTPJs
during propulsion
iii. Flexor digiti quinti (minimi) brevis:
• Origin: From the base of the shaft of the 5th metatarsal, crest of the
cuboid, and peroneal sheath
• Insertion: To the base of the proximal phalanx of the 5th toe laterally and
plantar (along with the tendon of the abductor digiti quinti)
• Vascular supply: Lateral plantar artery
• Innervation: Superficial branch of the lateral plantar nerve
• Functions: Statically it abducts and flexes the 5th toe. Dynamically it
functions as an interosseous muscle during gait
d. Fourth layer:
i. Plantar interossei: Three in number
• Origin: 1 st from the base and medial surface of the shaft of the 3rd
metatarsal. 2nd medial surface of the shaft and plantar surface of the base of
the 4th metatarsal. 3rd from the plantar aspect of the base and medial surface
of the shaft of the 5th metatarsal
• Insertion: 1st inserts into the 3rd toe medially near the base of the
proximal phalanx, and the medial side of the 3rd MTPJ capsule. 2nd is into the
4th toe medially near the base of the proximal phalanx, and the medial side of
the 4th MTPJ capsule. 3rd inserts medially into the 5th toe near the base of the
proximal phalanx, and the medial side of the 5th MTPJ capsule
• Vascular supply: 2nd, 3rd, and 4th plantar metatarsal arteries
• Innervation: Lateral plantar nerve
• Functions: Statically the plantar interossei aid in flexing the toes into
which they are inserted and aid in extension of the IPJs. Dynamically they draw
the toes medially toward the 2nd digit
Arthrology
1. Tibiofibular joints: The tibia and fibula are joined in 3 areas proximal,
distal, and crural interosseous
a. Proximal tibiofibular joint: A plane synovial joint between the facet on the
medial aspect of the head of the fibula and the fibula facet on the lateral
condyle of the tibia
i. Anterior superior tibiofibular ligament
ii. Posterior superior tibiofibular ligament
b. Distal tibiofibular joint: A syndesmosis between the distal ends of the tibia
and fibula
i. Interosseous tibiofibular ligament
ii. Anterior inferior tibiofibular ligament
iii. Posterior inferior tibiofibular ligament
NOTE* This ligament crosses the ankle and STJ as does the tibiocalcaneal
ligament
d. Fibrous capsule: Surrounds the ankle joint and is attached to the margins of
the articular surfaces
e. Synovial capsular membrane:
i.Closely attached to the fibrous capsular membrane medially and laterally
ii. Bulges are seen at the anterior tibiofibular ligament and parts of the lateral
ligament
iii. Synovial membrane is exposed near the medial malleolus
iv. Loose fold of synovial membrane is present in the ankle mortise between the
articulation of the lateral malleolus and inferior surface of the tibia (allows for
accommodation of the talar dome) f. Functional anatomy:
i. Oblique axis of motion running from posteroinferolaterally to
anterosuperomedially (pronatory/supinatory)
ii. The axis changes as the foot moves with dorsiflexion and plantarflexion
NOTE* The "anatomic" STJ is defined as the synovial articulation between the
posterior talar facet on the superior surface of the calcaneus and the posterior
calcaneal facet on the inferior surface on the body of the talus. The 'functional"
STJ includes the middle and anterior facets
The anterior and middle facets of the calcaneus are part of the
talocalcaneonavicular, a separate Synovial joint.
a. Articular areas: The posterior facets are roughly triangular in shape. The
articular surface of the the talus is concave, and the calcaneal surface is convex
alond its longitudinal axis
b. Sinus tarsi: Formed by the articulation of the sulcus calcanei between the
posterior and and anterior-middle facets of the calcaneus and the sulcus tali on
the inferior surface of the talar neck. It is wider laterally
c. Fibrous capsule: Completely surrounds the joint and reinforced by capsular
ligaments
d. Capsular ligaments:
i. Posterior calcaneal ligament: "Y" shaped. Medial band forms a roof over the
groove for the FHL tendon
ii. Lateral talocalcaneal ligament
iii. Medial talocalcaneal ligament
iv. Anterior talocalcaneal ligament
v. Interosseous talocalcaneal ligament (ligament of the tarsal canal): Located
within the tarsal canal and strengthens the STJ posteriorly
vi. Cervical ligament: Found laterally in the sinus tarsi, and resists supination
of the STJ
e. Functional anatomy:
• Most important STJ supinators are the tibialis anterior and tibialis
posterior
• Most important pronators are the peroneus longus and peroneus brevis
• The long axis of the posterior talar facet of the calcaneus is at an angle of
about 40° to the long axis to the foot
4. Talocalcaneonavicular joint: The head of the talus fits into a socket formed
by the posterior articular surface of the navicular and the anterior and middle
talar articular facets of the calcaneus, as well as the plantar calcaneonavicular
ligament
a. Classification: A modified condylar joint (capable of gliding and rotatory
motion)
b. Articular surfaces:
i. Head of talus:
• Convex in all directions
ii. Acetabulum pedis (joint socket):
• Anteroinferior portion: Concave in all directions, and formed by the
posterior surface of the navicular
• Posterior portion: Formed by the anterior and middle articular facets of
the calcaneus
• Inferomedial portion: Formed by the plantar calcaneonavicular ligament
NOTE* The articular area of the talar head is greater than the socket, and as a
result, in normal anatomic position, the head protrudes slightly dorsally at the
joint
c. Capsular ligaments:
i. Dorsal talonavicular ligament
ii. Plantar calcaneonavicular ligament (spring): Important in supporting the
talar head
iii. Calcaneonavicular portion of the bifurcate ligament: "Y" shaped with the
stem attached to the calcaneus and one arm attached to the cuboid and the
other arm to the navicular
d. Synovial membrane: Lines the fibrous capsule
e. Functional anatomy:
i. Some gliding and rotational movements are possible, but the TCN joint
cannot act independently
ii. Any motion at the STJ causes motion in the TCN joint. Additionally, motion
between the talus and navicular also involves the C-C joint
5. Calcaneocuboid joint: Formed by the articulation of the posterior surface of
the cuboid and the anterior surface of the calcaneus
a. Classification: A saddle-shaped synovial joint
b. Fibrous capsule: Surrounds the entire joint and has 3 capsular ligaments
i. Dorsal calcaneonavicular ligament
ii. Lateral calcaneocuboid ligament
iii. Calcaneocuboid portion of the bifurcate ligament
c. Extracapsular ligaments:
i. Long plantar ligament (long calcaneocuboid):
• Superficial and deep fibers
• Longest ligament in the foot
• Posterior fibers attached to plantar surface of the calcaneus and runs
distally to bases of metatarsals 2-5
d. Synovial capsule: Lines the entire joint
e. Functional anatomy: Has two axes of rotation
i. One axis through the calcaneal process
ii. One axis through the head of the talus
• Pronation results in the plantar, dorsal, and lateral ligaments being taut
• Supination results in the opposite
6. Great tarsal joint: Made up of the following joints
a. Cuboideonavicular joint:
i. Classification: Syndesmosis or planar synovial
ii. Fibrous capsule: Present only when a synovial joint is present. Has 3
capsular ligaments
• Dorsal cuboideonavicular
• Interosseous cuboideonavicular
• Plantar cuboideonavicular
i. Function: Very limited motion, but the motion that does occur is with
pronation/supination of the STJ
b. Cuneonavicular joint:
i. Classification: Planar in configuration, with a slight convexity in the
navicular
ii. Fibrous capsule: Continuous with all 3 navicular facets, but absent
laterally. Has 3 main capsular ligaments
• Dorsal cuneonavicular
• Medial cuneonavicular
• Plantar cuneonavicular (divided into 3 ligaments)
c. Intercuneiform joints: Forms part of the transverse pedal arch, with the
intermediate cuneiform being the highest point of the arch
i. Classification: Planar synovial
ii. Articular areas:
• Medial intercuneiform joint
• Lateral intercuneiform joint
• Cuneocuboid joint
iii. Fibrous capsule: Blends with the cuneonavicular capsule
d. Cuneocuboid joint
e. Tarsometatarsal joints (2nd and 3rd)
f. Intermetatarsal joints (bases of 2nd and 3rd)
2. Fibroma:
a. A benign, self-limiting proliferation of fibroblasts, producing collagen, most
being subcutaneous single lesions
b. They occur at any age
c. Koenen's Periungual Fibromas are seen on the hands and feet of about one-
third of patients with tuberous sclerosis
NOTE* Patients with tuberous sclerosis show an acneform facial rash whose
lesions are called adenoma sebaceum, but which are angiofibromas. Some
patients also are epileptic due to intracranial calcifications. This form of
tuberous sclerosis is called Epiloia. Fibromas may develop independent of
other diseases and are firm, discrete lesions. Sometimes other
elements are involved, e.g. fibrolipoma, fibrokeratoma, angiofibroma,
fibromyxoma, xanthofibroma, neurofibroma, etc. Lesions may recur after
excision
4. Myxomas:
a. Are soft tumors of fibrous origin that show a loose fibrous stroma and much
mucin and mucopolysaccharide within
b. This group includes digital mucus cysts and the synovial cysts such as
ganglion (only when the tendon sheath is present, hence, never distal to the
tarsus), and bursa
c. Synovial cysts can also be intraosseous lesions
d. This group are pseudotumors
5. Fibrosarcoma:
a. A malignant, collagenous, metastatic tumor that can occur at any age and
which is uncommon in the foot
b. They may be deep or intradermal
c. They also may be well differentiated or poorly differentiated
d. They may show a histologic "herringbone" pattern of cellular arrangement
6. Histiocytomas:
a. Are similar to fibromas, but show less collagen
b. The histiocyte is considered a facultative fibroblast, a cell state (rather
than a true cell type)
c. There are 3 major groups:
i. Fibroblastic fibrous: includes the following types
• Dermatofibroma
• Xanthomas (some)
• Myxomas
• Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (malignant): show a storiform pattern
histologically
ii. Histiocytic fibrous:
• Giant cell tumor of soft tissue (and bone)
• Xanthogranuloma
• Pigmented villonodular synovitis
• There are also malignant forms recognized
iii. Pleomorphhic fibrous: A group of unusual xanthomas,
xanthogranulomas, and atypical fibroxanthomas
12. Lipoma:
a. A benign tumor of adipose tissue and multiple lesions may occur
b. These may be present independently or as part of Gardner's syndrome and
neurofibromatosis-1
c. Lipomas do not reduce in size as fat is lost due to diet or illness
d. Variants include fibrolipoma, angiolipoma, and myelolipoma (producing
myeloid hematopoietic cells)
e. They can be excised locally without recurrence
f. Tendon sheath lipomas (endovaginal lipomas) may occur in the feet and/or
hands
g. Lipoblastoma may affect the feet of children
13. Liposarcoma:
a. Is a malignant, metastatic tumor of fatty tissue
b. It is probable the most common lower extremity sarcoma in adults, but it is
uncommon in the feet
c. There are gradations from well to poorly differentiated
d. They may be slow growing and asymptomatic until a nerve or other tissue is
sufficiently affected to result In pain or altered function e. These are deep
seated tumors that should be excised followed by chemotherapy and irradiation
15. Rhabdomyoma:
a. Is a benign tumor of striated muscle and has not been reported in the foot
b. Patients showing signs and symptoms of tuberous sclerosis (see Fibroma
section this chapter) may have cardiac rhabdomyoma and should, be sent for
examination
17. Rhabdomyosarcoma:
a. Very malignant metastatic tumor of striated muscle
b. Rare in the foot, there have been reported cases
c. There are 2 main types:
i. Embryonal: seen in mostly younger persons
ii. Pleomorphic: seen in older persons
d. These tumors are fast-growing and they erode bone
e. Amputation, chemotherapy, and irradiation are all treatment methods
18. Leiomyoma:
a. Is a benign tumor arising from smooth muscle
NOTE* The sources of smooth muscle in the feet are the arrector pill muscles
associated with pilosebaceous units in the dorsal skin of the feet and toes,
and blood vessels (frequently veins) anywhere in the foot.
20. Neuromas:
a. Are not tumors
b. They are reactive lesions arising as a result of trauma
c. Rudimentary (supernumerary) digits may contain neuromatous tissues
21. Schwannoma:
a. Is the benign peripheral nerve sheath tumor seen in the lower extremities
b. It is considered a more accurate term than the older "neurilemoma" or
"neurinoma"
c. Slow growing, sometimes painful and mainly occurring on the flexor surfaces
d. They may fluctuate due to cystic changes
e. These fall into the peripheral nerve sheath tumor (PNST) group
f. Histologically one sees Verocay bodies that may be well developed (Antoni
type A) or that may show myxoid degeneration (Antoni type B)
g. The "ancient schwannoma" is one that shows cystic degeneration and/or
calcification
h. These lesions can be excised and are not recurrent
i. In association with neurofibromatosis-1 there may be multiple schwannomas
j. The neurothekeoma is a benign peripheral nerve sheath tumor
22. Neurofibroma:
a. A benign, slow-growing, solitary, superficial, usually asymptomatic nodule
b. Excision is curative
c. Most cases occur in women
d. Neurofibromatosis-1 (von Recklinghausen's disease, multiple
neurofibromatosis) is a hereditary malformation involving neural, cutaneous,
and fibrous elements
i. Many organ systems may be involved
ii. There are strict criteria for diagnosis of neurofibromatosis-1 that involve cafe-
au-lait spots
iii. Patients show a high rate of development of unrelated malignant tumors
iv. There is a high risk of transformation of neurofibromas to
neurofibrosarcomas in neurofibromatosis-1
v. Diseases associated with neurofibromatosis-1 include:
• Scoliosis
• Erosions of bone (due to neurofibromas)
• Frohlich's syndrome
• Addison's disease
• Endocrine tumors
• Increased incidence of malignant melanoma
• Connective tissue tumors
• Multiple lipomas
• Meningocele and syringomyelia
26. Angiomas:.
a. May arise from the endothelium of blood vessels and/or lymphatic vessels
b. Predominant picture based on the presence of blood cells determines
whether the lesion is a hemangioma or a lymphangioma
30. Angiokeratoma:
a. The name given to a number of syndromes that affect the feet (and
other areas) showing dilated capillaries (ectasias) with secondary epidermal
hyperplastic changes
b. There are various types, all (except the Fordyce type) affecting the feet
i. Mibelli type
ii. Papular type
iii. Fabry type
35. Hemangiopericytoma:
a. Rarely occurs in the feet
b. There are benign and malignant forms, and histologic characteristics do not
necessarily correlate with the benign or malignant nature of the lesion
c. The patients must be watched for recurrence and/or metastases
36. Lymphangiomas:
a. As a group are rare
b. They may arise in the context of chronic and extensive lymphedema, e.g.
Milroy's disease, elephantiasis due to Wucheria infestation, etc.
c. Cystic hygroma represents a cavernous lymphangioma
39. Angioendothelioma:
a. The name given to group of lesions that are considered by some to be of
intermediate malignancy
b. Types:
i. Spindle cell type:
• Is most apt to occur on the lower extremities
• Uncommon, seen frequently in young males
ii. Reactive proliferating angioendotheliomatosis:
• A vascular, benign lesion in response to infection, (especially subacute
bacterial endocarditis) that truly involves endothelial proliferation
• Usually clears n 6-24 months
• AIDS patients may develop this lesions n response to cat scratch fever
organisms (Rochalimaea henselae)
iii. Malignant angioendothelioma:
• A malignant intravascular lymphoma and not an angioma or
angiosarcoma
40. Angiosarcomas:
a. Very rare in the lower extremities
b. Very malignant endothelial tumors, usually occurng in the elderly
c. They may be associated with chronic edema
d. They may grow rapidly and may metastasize
e. Most cases are fatal
f. Amputation a good distance proximal to the tumor is the surgical approach
g. Irradiation has not been very effective
h. Some superficial forms (not the deep forms) have been treated successfully
with carbon dioxide laser
i. Patients must be checked for recurrences and metastases
2. Therapeutic Heat:
a. Physical agents (superficial heat): These modalities cause a rise in tissue
temperature generally limited to the skin and subcutaneous tissue. The effect is
increased circulation, with histamine release and enhanced phagocytosis and
lymph flow. Also there is a sedative type effect and increased connective tissue
extensibility
i. Hot water
ii. Hot air
iii. Infrared
iv. Radiant light
v. Whirlpool
vi. Paraffin
vii. Hot packs
b. Physical agents (deep heat): These modalities cause the same physiological
effects as with superficial heat agents, but they also have the ability to heep
deep structures such as muscle and joint capsule. These modalities are
extremely useful for helping regain lost motion in contracted joints or shortened
muscles
i. Short wave diathermy:
3. Manual modalities:
a. Massage indications: Classical massage, transverse friction massage
i. Relief of pain
ii. Arthritis
iii. Periarthritis
iv. Bursitis
v. Neuritis
vi. Fibrositis
vii. Mobilization of contracted tissue
viii. Reduction of swelling and induration
b. Massage contraindications:
i. Infection
ii. Cutaneous inflammation
iii. Tumors
iv. Burns
v. Skin diseases in relation to contamination and irritation
vi. Clotting disorders
vii. Fractures
viii. Thrombophlebitis
ix. Aneurysms
x. Thrombosis
xi. Fever
xii. Acute systemic disease
c. Manipulation indications:
i. Loss of range of motion
ii. The residuals of long periods of immobilization
iii. The residuals of trauma and/or capsular inflammation
d. Manipulation contraindications:
i. Immediate post trauma
ii. Joint effusion
iii. Acute inflammation
iv. Ligamentous rupture
v. Dislocation (unless used for repositioning)
vi. Fracture (unless used for repositioning)
4. Kinetic Procedures
a. Therapeutic excercise: Prescribed to increase and maintain joint and soft
tissue mobility, prevent adhesions and fibrosis, and to aid in soft tissue healing
i. Techniques:
• Resistive: Isotonic, isometric, and isokinetic (Kin-Com, Cybex, and
Biodex)
• P.N.F.: Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (exercise which employs
combined neuromuscular training techniques
• Neuromuscular re-education (secondary to nerve injury)
ii. Indications:
• Preventing joint contractures
• Preventing joint adhesions
• Increasing joint range of motion due to trauma, muscle spasm, disease,
or states that limit function and mobility and prevent activity
• Arthritis and related conditions
• Post-amputation
• Neuromuscular and collagen diseases that produce contractures and
limited ranges of motion
• Paresis due to multiple conditions, such as CVA,
• Weakness and atrophy due to disuse and/or after immobilization
• Muscular weakness
• To strengthen muscles
iii. Contraindications/precautions/limitations:
• Acute active inflammation
• Active post-trauma
• Severe cardiovascular disease
• Severe pulmonary disease
• Metastatic malignancies
• Nonunion fracture sites (caution)
• Pain in the arthritides (caution)
• Severe joint and/or muscle pain (caution)
• Infection
b. Range of motion exercise:
i. Active: patient exercises on their own
ii. Passive: Joint mobilization or manipulation
iii. Active assist
5. Electrical modalities: This group of modalities delivers an electrical current
to the patient with various physiological effects. Among these effects are pain
relief, reduction of swelling, and muscle stimulation for enhancement of
strengthening or retardation of atrophy.
a. TENS: Used for reduction of pain. The Gate Control theory of pain states that
stimulation of large diameter nerve fibers may effect transmission of a noxious
stimuli before it reaches the cortex. This theory was used to explain TENS for
many years. More recently, other theories of central modulation have been used
to explain why TENS causes a reduction of pain
i. Indications:
• Chronic pain
• Acute pain associated with postoperative control
• Arthritis
• Bursitis
• Sprains/strains
• Tenosynovitis
• Metatarsalgia and related foot pain
• Painful motor and sensory nerve lesions
• Post amputation pain including phantom pain
• Peripheral neuritis
ii. Contraindications:
• Cardiac pacemakers
• Carotid sinus
• Insulin pump
• In the presence of electronic life support systems
• Over denuded skin
b. Iontophoresis: An electrical generator with DC current used for ion transfer
of medication into areas beneath the skin. This is often used for the purpose of
infliltrating a tendon, ligament or joint capsule with an anti-inflammatory or
anesthetic
c. Electrical stimulation: Is a high frequency current used primarily for
enhancement of shortening exercised
i. Indications:
• Injury to the muscles/tendons/joints
• Paralysis
• Sprains/strains
• Postfracture and after dislocation to help retard atrophy and restore
muscle function
• To help restore muscle tone and strength
• To help provide tissue contraction to milk tissues of excess fluids
• To relieve muscle spasm from trauma and associated muscle conditions
• Muscle pain and spasm
• Myositis
• Metatarsalgia
• Post polio
• Muscle re-education
• Following surgery to help prevent clots and embolism
• With ultrasound for trigger points and pain
• Denervated muscles
• To help retard muscle atrophy
• Synovitis
• Disuse
• Fibrositis
• Contractures
• Pain with ankylosis
• Stress and anxiety
ii. Contraindications/precautions:
• Individual patient reactions
• Allergy
• Placement of electrodes over malignancies
• Severe inflammation
• The head area
• Cardiac area
• Pacemakers
• Pregnancy
• Special concerns in the presence of vascular and/or neurologic
deficiencies
d. Galvanic currents:
i. Indications:
• Reduce pain
• Reduce swelling
• Increase local circulation
• Aid in nerve regeneration
• Soften scar tissue
e. Hi-volt: This high voltage, low amperage modality is used for pain reduction,
swelling reduction and muscle stimulation. Tissue impedance is overcome more
easily due to the high voltage, allowing deeper penetration of current. Some
theories state that inflammation may also be reduced by using this modality
f. Interferential: This modality relies on an extremely high frequency (2500-
4000Hz) to allow deeper penetration for the purpose of stimulation of nerves for
pain relief.
2. Patient evaluation and selection: Arthroscopy of the foot and ankle should
only be done after all conservative measures have been exhausted
a. Diagnostic indications:
i. Unexplained pain
ii. Swelling
iii. Stiffness
iv. Instability
v. Hemarthrosis
vi. "Popping"
b. Therapeutic indications:
i. Debridement of osseous bodies
ii. Repair of the ATFL iii. Irrigation
iv. Septic joint (flush out bacteria)
v. Osteochondral defects
vi. Soft tissue impingement
vii. Synovitis
viii. Arthrofibrosis
ix. Arthrodesis
c. Contraindications:
i. Cellulitis and local infections
ii. Fused joint
iii. Moderate DJD with restricted range of motion
iv. Severe edema
v. High risk medical patients
3. Instrumentation:
a. Arthroscopes: 2.7 mm, 4.0 mm with 30° viewing
b. Trochars, canulas and obturators
c. Accessory instruments (biopsy forceps, scissors, grasping forceps, suction
punch, meniscal knives, cutter, shavers, probes, suture delivery systems)
d. Irrigation system (normal saline, Ringer's lactate or acetate)
e. Other: Electrosurgical units, lasers, distraction devices (noninvasive or
invasive)
4. Ankle portals:
a. Anteromedial:
i. Medial to the anterior tibial tendon, saphenous nerve and vein
ii. Visualization of the medial gutter, medial transchondral bone margins
b. Anterolateral:
i. Lateral to the peroneus tertius and EDL
ii. Care must be taken to preserve the superficial peroneal nerve
iii. Visualization of the lateral gutter
c. Anterocentral:
i. Lateral to the EHL
ii. Care must be taken to preserve the anterior tibial artery and deep
peroneal nerve
d. Posterolateral:
i. Patient is usually prone
ii. Incision is lateral to the Achilles tendon
iii. Care must be taken to preserve the sural nerve and lesser saphenous
vein
e. Posteromedial:
i. Medial to the Achilles tendon
ii. Care must be taken to preserve the posterior tibial artery and nerve
iii. Visulalization to the posterior process of the talus and transchondral
lesions to the back of the talus
f. Accessory portals
5. Anatomy:
a. Anterior joint pouch:
i. Medial gutter:
• Medial malleolus
• Adjacent talar medial articular surface
• Anterior tibiotalar ligament (floor of the gutter)
• Posterior tibiotalar ligament (with valgus stress)
a. Anterior ankle (continued):
i. Medial bend
• Anterior tibial lip
• Medial talar shoulder
• Tibial plafond
a. Anterior ankle (continued):
i. Anterior joint line
• Sagittal groove of the talus
• Synovial recess (tibia)
• Capsular reflection (tibia)
a. Anterior ankle (continued):
i. Lateral talar shoulder
• Tbiofibular synovial recess
• Tibiofibular synovial fringe
• Anterior inferior tibiofibular ligament
6. Ankle Pathology:
a. Soft tissue:
i. Synovitis
ii. Fibrous bands
iii. Meniscoid bodies
• Wollins lesion
iv. Adhesive capsulitis
b. Cartilage:
i. Subchondral erosions
ii. Chondromalacia:
• Collins classification:
Grade 1 : Fraying
Grade 2: Fibrillation, fissuring
Grade 3: Extensive fissuring
Grade 4: Cartilage loss
• Goodfellows classification (superficial degeneration):
Type 1 : Superficial erosion
Type 2: Loss of superficial layer
Type 3: Exposed subchondral bone
Type 4: Deep matrix exposed
• Goodfellows classification (basal degeneration):
Stage 1 : Cartilage softening
Stage 2: Blister formation
Stage 3: Exposed matrix
Stage 4: Bone exposed
iii. Chondral lesions:
• Bauer and Jackson classification:
Type 1: Linear crack
Type 2: Stellate lesion
Type 3: Cartilage flap
Type 4: Avulsed with exposed bone
Type 5: Fibrillation
Type 6: Fibrillation plus subchondral erosion
c. Osseous pathology:
i. Osteochondral bodies
ii. Subchondral bone cysts
HISTORY
1. The Quantum Theory:
Max Planck
1910
Light is quantified in Photon units
the basic unit of light (6.625 x 10-27 erg sec (cm2/sec))
2. Stimulated Emission Theory:
Albert Einstein
1917
Basis of laser light
3. First laser developed, demonstrated and patented
Theodore Maiman
Ruby Laser
1960
UNITS OF MEASUREMENT
1. Frequency Expressed in Cycles per Second (CPS)
Hertz (Hz)
2. Wavelength The measurement of one crest to another of a particular frequency
Collimated = Emitted stream of photons is linear, and does not diverge. This also
eliminates wavelengths producing interference patterns reducing power.
COMPONENTS OF A LASER
1. Partially reflecting mirror 97%
2. Fully reflecting mirror 100%
3. Lasing media
4. Xenon flash lamp
5. high frequency Switching system
6. High voltage power supply
7. Delivery system - Articulating Arm, Fiberoptic, waveguide 8. Lense
9. Aiming Laser (HeNe), if required, depends on laser type
DELIVERY MECHANISMS
1. Low frequencies = longer wavelengths = far- and mid-infrared.
Articulating arms, or internally reflecting waveguides are used.
2. At near-infrared, 2100 nm and above (Ho:YAG laser) fiberoptics contain these
frequencies having a higher index of refraction.
3. Fiberoptics are constructed of quartz (Aluminum dioxide), silicon dioxide or silver
halides, coated with a plastic sheath.
4. Lenses, or contact light scalpels of selective focal lengths, can be integrated into the
terminal end of the fiberoptic system.
5. The bare fiber is also used for free beam ablation work.
TRANSMISSION MODES
1. Desirable laser energy distribution energy follows a Gaussian curve.
2. Energy decay falls exponentially on either side of the curve.
TEM00 has a narrow spot size TEM01 small spot 0.3 mm at best
true Gaussian curve. called "near Gaussian"
0.2 mm diameter spots not desirable
appropriate for cutting can be used for ablation.
TISSUE INTERACTION
1. This is THE most important aspect of lasers in medical science.
2. Tissue interaction with the specific laser wavelength is the KEY to laser selection.
POWER DENSITY
1. Is the standard of expression in documenting laser power to tissue.
2. Expressed in W/cm2.
3. P.D. maybe constant while tissue spot size and power varies.
A typical example using 14 Watts with a 0.2 mm diameter contact tip or spot size (which
is 0.1 mm radius)
Traditional Algebraic:
WATTS 14 4.46 446
----------- = --------------------- = ----------------- = --------------------- = 44,600
pi x r2 0.12 0.01 0.01
3.14 x ----- -----
102 100
a shortcut algebraic:
WATTS 14
127 x ----------- = 127 x --------- = 44,450
d2 0.22
WATTS PER CM2 Chart
TIME
The gating of the flash lamp may be:
1. C.W. Continuous Wave - Continuously on
2. Single Pulsed - Continuous on for a preset period
3. Superpulsed - Rapid pulsing at peak power at 250 - 1000 Hz.
Average power is determined by
1. pulse width and
2. repetition rate
This allows tissue to undergo "thermal relaxation"
4. Ultrapulsed - Much higher RF (Radio Frequency) switching
nanosecond pulse width.
More thermal precision.
5. Q-switched - Very high peak power with picosecond pulse width
LASER SAFETY
1. Reference: "ANSI 136.3 Publication" on laser safety
2. Four Classes of Lasers:
Class I - No ocular damage with direct viewing
Class II - Ocular damage with prolonged exposure
Class III - Ocular damage to the eye before the eye can blink
Class IV - Medical lasers. Great potential and hazard to the eye
and skin. Ignites combustible materials. Beam = fire hazard.
3. Dedicated laser nurse in O.R. controlling use and monitoring laser safety
4. Key operated, controlled access.
5. Room shields to outside personnel.
6. Eye protection for patient and all OR personnel.
7. Wavelength specific eye protection hung outside the door
so that people can enter the room safely.
8. Adequate smoke evacuation appropriate to tissue atomization.
9. Dual stage filtration, carbon and 0.2 um filter.
10 Coaxial visible aiming beam for use with invisible light lasers.
11 Proper filtering mask.
EYE PROTECTION
1. Impact is direct or reflective.
2. Minimal hazard zone is determined to be 6 feet away from the reflected zone.
3. O. D. = Optical Density, expressed as an exponent of power of 10.
ie: O. D. of 5 is 100 x as absorbent as O. D. of 3
4. Always expressed as an O.D. at a specific wavelength
5. Recommended to surgeon (direct viewing field) - minimum O.D. of 5 @ wavelength.
6. Recommended to OR personnel (indirect) - minimum O.D. of 3 @ wavelength.
7. Conventional glass or plastic
glasses will stop CO2
8. Recommend UV coating to
stop the ultraviolet fluorescence
off carbonization.
9. Eye protection still necessary
for endoscopic procedures, fibers
could break.
10. High density filters on
endoscopes, arthroscopes,
waveguides.
11. The reflected light transmits
directly back to the surgeon.
High power plume evacuators are required with dual stage filters.
1. Charcoal filter for carcinogens, smell.
2. Filtering down to 0.2 microns to filter out virus
a. The key is good technique in smoke evacuation.
b. Keep the smoke evacuator close to the area of surgery.
c. A laser mask will filter down to 0.3 microns.
d. These measures reduce nearly all of the hazards of the viral particles
2. CONSENT FORM - Include the laser type or wavelength used and the intended
application of the laser if there is conventional instrumentation used. ie: "(Usual
description of surgery), soft tissue with CO2 laser"
Advertise straightforward what laser procedures (warts, nails) are done if also
advertising conventional procedures (bunionectomy) that are not performed with laser
assistance.
DISADVANTAGES
1. Cost, power, alignment, control, additional informed consent
2. Smoke evacuation system
3. Combustible materials risk, extra drapes, higher protection
4. Special training for physician/staff
5. Learning curve
6. Credentialling process/extension of privileges if hospital use
The following diagrams, illustrate two methods: linear and circular overlap.
The goal is an evenly ablated surface.
1. Circumscribe lesion by 2 mm peripherally
2. Curette representative area and send biopsy for pathology.
3. Deep channels should be avoided.
4. Do not penetrate dermis in verrucoid lesions.
5. If you have a 0.2 mm spot size at focal point, defocus to 1.0 mm.
For example, 20 watts with a 1 mm spot size equals 2540 watts/cm2 power density.
Scarring results from dermal penetration
IPK's and porokeratosis are focally penetrated to the dermis.
1. Need to lase to subdermal fat.
2. 75% cure rate, somewhat higher than conventional applications.
3. Little scarring.
4. More focal treatment is required at higher power levels.
5. Remove char by lavage or sponge
NOTES:
1. A TEM00 laser produces a very different effect compared to a TEM01 machine
2. A superpulsed laser has a variety of pulse settings to achieve the same P. D.
3. The ultrapulsed lasers cut faster at lower power settings.
4. These are characterized by very short duration RF pulsed power supplies
HEMOSTASIS
1. By Coagulation:
Defocus to a spot size greater than twice the vessel diameter
Use a Power density less than 1500 watts/cm2
Technique: defocus beam to increase spot size and direct beam at site
2. By Dessication (thermal contraction):
Spot size 1 mm
Power density as with coagulation
Technique: direct beam to tissue immediately adjacent
OVERLASING
Significant problem to inexperienced user is "Overlasing"
Definition: delivery of an inappropriate amount of laser energy to target tissue
or to the surrounding tissues
producing unintended tissue destruction.
(Immediately visualized with CO2 lasers.)
CAVERNOUS HEMANGIOMA
1. Considered ablative surgery requiring high power densities.
2. This is a highly vascular tumor.
3. Nd:YAG (bare fiber) is appropriate for deep penetration
4. Causes deep thermal vascular stenosis.
5. CO2 is not good for coagulation for these tumors, but it can be used.
6. KTP and Argon are more appropriate for superficial vascular lesions.
Postoperative Care:
1. Patient seen 3 days to 1 week
2. Patient allowed to clean twice daily with H202 and bandaid
exception: large lesions require redressing until drainage decreases.
3. Normal bathing after first redressing.
Accommodative pad if needed.
4. Stop dressing when drainage ceases, no dressing at night.
5. Monitor patient for at least 6 months due to the nature of HPV.
6. Success rate easily 90% after learning curve reached.
Complications:
1. Infection--rare, laser sterilizes the bed.
2. Overlasing
NOTES:
3. Increased pain--result of overlasing.
4. Increased bleeding--result of overlasing
5. Increased scarring--result of overlasing
6. Scarring--Penetration of dermis
1. Techniques for missing part of the matrix are just a probable with laser or blade
2. Characterized as a blind procedure.
3. Burning bone may result in periostitis, very rare.
4. Recurrence after learning curve partial permanent procedure, hallux, 0.5%.
5. These rate of results after learning curve reached.
6. Usually recurrence is keloid, hypertrophic scar formers, and psoriatic patients
7. Patients with high epidermal growth turnover
8. Total permanent if recurrent in these patients
POSTOPERATIVE CARE
1. Leave sterile dressing on 24 h
Patient to change at home
Patient to clean twice daily with H202. No soaks.
2. Some tissue necrosis 1 week
3. Patient to keep dry for 3 days
4. Patients seen 24 hours - 3
days postop
5. Bandaid dressing
6. Normal healing
7. Discontinue dressing and soaks
when drainage ceases, generally 2 weeks
8. Allow it to drain 1-3 weeks until it stops draining spontaneously.
9. Total permanent drain more on the 3 week margin, lesser digit partials for a week or
so.
COMPLICATIONS
1. Increased pain
2. Increased drainage
3. Delayed healing
4. Soft tissue infection
5. Thermal osteitis
6. Osteomyelitis
7. Overlasing is generally the culprit of all those complications.
PREVENTION OF COMPLICATIONS
1. Use appropriate power density
2. Keep the hand piece moving or apply power with periodicity
3. Keep exposure time on a given spot to a minimum
4. Don't relase over char
5. Always know where the beam is going, especially these blind procedures
SUBTOTAL MATRIXECTOMY
1. Anesthesia as before
2. The plate is always removed conventionally
3. Lasing is performed on the total matrix
4. however only scanned to 50% of the depth
5. The idea is to remove only part of the nail matrix to result in a thinner nail
SUBUNGUAL HEMATOMA
1. No anesthesia
2. Same procedure as mottling technique
3. Slightly higher power Density may be used
4. Lase a couple of holes until the nail plate is penetrated.
5. Hematoma will isolate thermal effects.
MODES OF OPERATION
1. Non-contact mode - used for debulking and treating deep tumors.
higher power levels required ie: 40 W
2. Contact-tip mode - highly localized scalpel form similar to CO2 laser
lower power ie: 12-16 W (frosted tip)
4-6 W (nonfrosted)
3. Contact-tip is very superficial absorption, cutting only at the tip.
"What-you-see-is-what-you-get"
Noncontact is indicated for deep
Contact is used for incision and tumors.
excisional work.
THE INSTRUMENT
1. Instrument is portable, conventional nondedicated power OK
2. C.W. mode only
3. Flashlamp excites Neodymium-doped crystal of Yttrium, Aluminum, Garnet
4. Fiberoptic delivery system, air or water cooled within the sheath
5. Large variety of handpieces, general surgical one is used
6. Large variety of contact tips, fiber and handpiece combinations
SURGICAL APPLICATIONS
CONTRAINDICATIONS
Defer these cases until the learning curve plateau is reached
1. Digital surgery - cannot justify utilization
Instrument overkill for procedure
2. Revisional surgery - actually indicated
but these surgeries carry a higher risk by default
If successful laser gets the credit
If not successful surgeon gets blammed
Public expectations of lasers are high
3. Any bone work - not FDA approved
This is not a wavelength for this
4. Medical-Legal cases - Same idea as revisional Surgery
5. Amputation - Same idea as revisional surgery
6. PVC cases - Same idea
7. Acute Trauma cases - no time to call in laser team
REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS
1. Learning curve is steeper than CO2 Laser
2. Postoperative bruising still seen
3. Swelling, and pain still seen - although diminished
4. Macroscopic bleeding present but diminished
5. Be ready for the unexpected -
New technology presents new situations
6. Do simple cases first
THE ARGON LASER
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
1. Dual wavelength output:
Blue 488 nm
Green 514 nm very close to KTP 532 nm (pure green)
2. 1 to 2 mm depth of penetration.
3. Operates as a coagulation device, not used for cutting
4. Argon and KTP pass epidermis to absorb in the dermal hemoglobin selectively
Nd:YAG and CO2 do not absorb in the region of the Hb curve
5. Fiberoptic delivery system
6. collimated handpiece, freebeam fiber, contact
7. Aiming beam is a low power argon beam, hard to see through OD 3 or 5 glasses
8. 30 degree divergence on the KTP fiber, 2 degree divergence on the Argon fiber.
9. 488 nm filter is used to filter out green component
10. Hemoglobin Absorption is a bimodal curve
11. Ideally the wavelength should fall on the peak absorption of this curve and be
maximally transmissible through other tissues
MECHANISM OF ACTION
1. Chromophores on the bottom of the foot are minimal
2. They pose little problem because the epidermis, dermis
basal layer is transparent to this wavelength
3. Absorption at this wavelength is low
first absorbed in the hemoglobin within the vessels of the reticular dermis
4. vessels are stenosed via selective photoablation.
a. Able to coagulate vessels less than 1 mm in diameter.
b. Indicated for tissue coagulation and necrosis procedures (acisional)
c. KTP laser, 532 nm can be used also for vascular stenosis.
d. Deeper dermal structures, such as capillary hemangioma, other lasers are indicated
for this such as the free beam Nd:YAG.
EYE PROTECTION
1. Optical Density (O.D.) minimum of 5 at 488 nm.
2. Unfortunately, these glasses block out the aiming beam
The aiming beam is a low level intensity treatment beam.
3. Visible light eye protection radically alters the colors of the surgical field
SURGICAL APPLICATIONS
INDICATIONS FOR THE ARGON LASER
1. This treatment is very useful for incisionless surgery
It is highly favored by the patient,
particularly in the large verrucae on the plantar aspect of the foot and the posterior
aspect of the heel normally a CO2 laser would leave an ulcerative defect Immediate
shoe gear
2. Multiple disseminating lesions or mosaic warts on the plantar foot
3. Vascular lesions of a superficial nature
ADVANTAGES
1. Minimal exposure to blood--this is an incisionless procedure.
2. Decreased laser plume about 5% of that with CO2 laser A smoke evacuator is still
required
3. Good treatment for immunocompromised patients
4. Faster than CO2 laser, i.e. a 45 minute procedure for the CO2 laser for
verruca plantaris would take 5 minutes with the Argon laser
5. It is repeatable
6. Sterile preparation unnecessary.
Surgeon still should be gloved for isolation from lesion contaminants.
NOTES:
1. Some carbonization is normal in thick epidermis
Avoid charring this by continuous circular motions.
2. When blanching occurs, this is the proper setting.
Also the proper rate of hand piece movement.
3. This is a time dependent phenomena.
4. After the vasculature is coagulated the chromophores have absorbed the wavelength.
5. If blanching is not encountered, do not increase power,
do not slow down handpiece movement.
6. Repeat the same movement of the handpiece over the area.
7. When proper parameters are determined, continue treatment beyond the test area.
8. The result is not only power and spot size, giving P.D., but time dependent.
POSTOPERATIVE CARE
1. Accommodative pad prn
No dressing necessary.
Patient can put his shoe and sock on and walk out of the operating room.
2. Hydrocodone 2.5 mg i-ii Q 4-6 h prn pain
3. Blistering likely to occur in 3 to 5 days.
Patient may incise and drain this at home.
After I&D, patient is to leave the skin on, for a protective barrier.
4. At one week a black necrotic skin component will form
This lasts 3 weeks and spontaneously sheds.
5. Check patient in 3-4. Recheck in 10 weeks.
6. Should fully heal within 4 to 5 weeks.
No scarring should be seen.
A slight hypopigmentation may be observed.
7. Ulceration is not possible with this laser as the chromophores, hemoglobin
and oxyhemoglobin stops the absorption in the superficial papillary plexus.
FIBER PREPARATION
Fiber preparation is done previous to each case
1. Fiber must be cleaved:
a. Optical fibers have a crystalline nature
b. A cleaver is used to penetrate the sheath and score the fiber cortex this sets up a
stress riser so the fiber can be snapped
c. the end of the fiber is inspected for a flat, even surface
emitted laser light should be circular and symmetrical
d. The sheath must be stripped.
e. 4 mm recommended by manufacturer, but emits too much lateral light
f. so strip 2-3 mm instead, but enough so the sheath doesn't melt
g. So leave it to Cleaver to strip off the sheath for fiber preparation
SURGICAL APPLICATIONS
KTP TREATMENT OF VERRUCA
1. Same as for Argon
2. Treatment is slightly deeper
3. Blanching is similar but has more significance of penetration depth
Ho:YAG LASER
1. a near-contact laser being used for resecting calcaneal spurs
2. good for endoscopic and arthroscopic work
3. transmits through water
4. also indicated for cartilage ablative procedures for joint restoration
Q-SWITCHED LASERS
1. used to be used in ophthalmic procedures
2. Q-switched Ruby and Q-switched Nd:YAG for tatoo removal
3. no anesthesia necessary
4. multiple treatments necessary
5. little scarring results, mild hypopigmentation
EXCIMER LASER
1. UV laser, 0.2 mm absorption
2. Ionizing radiation
3. Cardiac catheterization, osteotomy, corneal sculpting
4. High frequency, short wavelength means high precision
Er:YAG LASER
1. Mid infrared, 0.1 mm absorption
2. Bone surgery
3. Difficulty in fiberoptic delivery - fragile and toxic
BIBLIOGRAPHY
1. Arndt, Kenneth A., "Argon Laser Therapy of Small Cutaneous Vascular Lesions",
Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, vol. 118, April 1982, pp. 220-224.
2. Borovoy, Mathew; Fuller, Terry A.; Elson, Lawrence M.; Laser Safety in Podiatry", The
Journal of Foot Surgery, 1985, vol. 24, no. 2, pp. 136-138.
3. Borovoy, Mathew; Klein, Jeffery T.; Fuller, Terry A.; "Carbon Dioxide Laser
Methodology for Ablation of Plantar Verrucae", vol. 24, no. 6, 1985, pp. 431-437.
5. Carlson, Bruce A., and Pyrcz, Robert A., "Lasers in Podiatry and Orthopaedics",
Nursing Clinics of North America, v. 25, No. 3, September 1990, Pg. 719-723.
6. Carlson, Bruce A.; Pyrcz, Robert; "Human Papilloma Virus-Induced Lesions: Their
Treatment and the Evolution of an Alternative Laser Application", Current Podiatric
Medicine, November 1989, pp.9-12.
7. Carlson, Bruce A., "Complications Associated with Laser Surgery", Clinics in Podiatric
Medicine and Surgery, vol. 4, no. 4, October 1987, pp. 823-828.
8. Chromey, Paul A., "The Significance of Power Density in Applying the CO2 Laser",
Current Podiatric Medicine, September 1986, pp. 20-22.
9. Chromey, Paul A., "The Application of CO2 Laser to Soft Tissue Tumors", Current
Podiatric Medicine, May 1986, pp.24-27.
10. Collis, Sheldon; Rowland, Roberta N.; "Lasers For Podiatry Principles and
Language", Current Podiatry, April 1984, pp. 33-34.
11. Kaplan, Isaac, "The CO2 Laser In Clinical Surgery: Past, Present, and Future",
Journal of Clinical Laser Medicine and Surgery, pp. 341-343, vol. 9, no. 5, 1991.
12. Kelly, Peter F.; "Nd:YAG Contact-Tip Laser Reduces Pain from Foot Surgery",
Clinical Laser Monthly, Volume 10, No. 1, January, 1992.
13. Kelly, Peter F., "Nd:YAG Contact Tip V. Cold Steel Applications in Podiatric Foot and
Ankle Surgery", American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery, Supplement 4, 1992.
14. Kelly, Peter F.; "The Light Scalpel - Nd:YAG Laser Contact-Tip", Issue 24, 1992, The
Laser Letter, International Society of Podiatric Laser Surgery, Doylestown, PA.
15. Kelly, Peter F.; "The Nd:YAG Laser for the Podiatric Surgeon", The Laser Letter,
Issue 25, 1992, International Society of Podiatric Laser Surgery, Doylestown, PA.
16. Kelly, Peter F.; "KTP Laser Application to Calcaneal Spur Surgery", Clinical Laser
Monthly; Volume 11, No. 3, April, 1993.
17. Kelly, Peter F., "KTP Laser Application to Calcaneal Spur Resection and Plantar
Fasciectomy", American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery, Supplement 5, 1993
18. Landsman, Mark J.; Mancuso, John E.; Abramow, Steven P.; "Laser's Use in Bone
and Joint Surgery, Clinics in Podiatric Medicine and Surgery, vol. 9, no. 3, July 1992, pp.
721-737
19. McDowell, Brian A., "Carbon Dioxide Laser Excision of Benign Pedal Lesions,
Clinics in Podiatric Medicine and Surgery, vol. 9, no. 3, July 1992, pp. 617-632.
20. Mueller, Terrance J.; Carlson, Bruce A.; Lindy, Marc P.; "The Use of the Carbon
Dioxide Surgical Laser for the Treatment of Verrucae", Journal of the American Podiatry
Association, vol. 70, no. 3, March 1980, pp. 136-141.
21. Nicholson, Ronald A., "Two Techniques Described using C02 Laser for
Matrixectomy", Laser Practice Report, vol. 7, no. 7, pp. 1 S-2S.
22. Pyrcz, Robert A.; Carlson, Bruce A.; "Lasers in Podiatry and Orthopedics", Nursing
Clinics of North America, vol. 25, no. 3, September 1990, pp. 719-723.
23. Wasserman, Gerald, "Treatment of Morton's Neuroma with the Carbon Dioxide
Laser", Clinics in Podiatric Medicine and Surgery, vol. 9, no. 3, July 1992.
SPEED-READING BIBLIOGRAPHY
1. "Continued efforts to enhance the utilization of laser technology and the ability of laser
education at teaching hospitals are key for the future." Lanzafame, Raymond, J.;
Hinshaw, Raymond, J.; "Laser Education, Laser Usage, and Surgical Attitudes: A
Challenge for the Future", Pg. 279-81, Journal of Clinical Laser Medicine and Surgery,
Volume 10, No. 4, 1992.
2. "It (the CO2 laser) routinely provides a bloodless surgical field as well as unusual
surgical precision." Fairhurst, Mark V.; Roenick, Randall K.; Brodland, David G.;
Subspecialty Clinics: Dermatology, "Carbon Dioxide Laser Surgery for Skin Disease",
Mayo Clinical Proceedings, Vol. 67, Pg. 49-58, 1992.
5. "Since the beam affects well defined areas of the skin, there is minimal necrosis of
adjacent tissue; consequently, postoperative pain, edema, and scarring are minimized."
Mueller, Terrance J.; Carlson, Bruce A.; Lindy, Mark P.; "The Use of the Carbon Dioxide
Surgical Laser for the Treatment of Verrucae", Journal of the American Podiatry
Association, Vol. 70, No. 3, March 1980, Pg. 136-141.
6. "Podiatry started using the laser for the excision of Morton's neuroma and for
incisional approaches to bunionectomy and other podiatric procedures." "The same
advantages were found to be present for incisional procedures: less bleeding, pain, and
postoperative edema." Peyrcz, Robert A., Carlson, Bruce A., "Lasers In Podiatry and
Orthopedics", Nursing Clinics of North America, Vol. 25, No. 3, September 1990, Pg.
719-723.
7. "Utilizing the CO2 laser in neuroma surgery for making incisions and sealing the nerve
stump decreases postoperative pain and healing, allowing patients to resume normal
ambulation faster than with conventional scalpel surgery." Wasserman, Gerald, Clinics
in Podiatric Medicine and Surgery, "Treatment of Morton's Neuroma With the Carbon
Dioxide Laser", Vol. 9, No. 3, July 1992, Pg. 671-686.
8. "The contact method of performing endoscopic and open surgery with the Nd:YAG
laser opens a new era in laser surgery ... with cutting capabilities previously only seen
with the CO2 laser." "The CO2 laser operating at a wavelength of 10,600 nm with energy
outputs of 100 watts is effective at cutting and coagulation of SUPERFICIAL blood
vessels." Joffe, Stephen N.; Schroder, Tom; Lasers in General Surgery, Year Book
Medical Publishers, Inc., Laser Center of America, Cincinnati, OH, Pg. 125-130, 1987.
9. "We concluded that CO2 laser surgery for hemophiliacs has a confirmed place for
modern laser technology." Santo-Dias, A.; "CO2 Laser Surgery in Hemophilia
Treatment", Journal of Clinical Laser Medicine and Surgery, Pg. 297-301, Volume 10,
No. 4, 1992.
10. "Because of the large amount of water in body tissue, this laser (CO2) will cause a
vaporization of the tissue at the focal point and seal the small blood vessels and
lymphatics. The laser creates an incision that leaves residual tissue undamaged."
Kaplan, Isaac; "Twenty Years of CO2 Laser Surgery: A Review and Update", Journal of
Clinical Laser Medicine and Surgery, Pg. 57-60, Volume 11, No. 2, 1993.
11. "Certain advantages of the use of the CO2 laser stand out: absence of hemorrhage
and cellular vaporization which permit, due to a perfect visibility, appreciation at every
moment of the quantity of tissue that needs to be removed." Dourov, Nicolas; Nammour,
Samir; "Removal of Benign Tumors Using the CO2 Laser", Journal of Clinical Laser
Medicine and Surgery, Pg. 109-113, Volume 10, No. 2, 1992.
12. "This action results in a fine hemostatic incision leaving the residual tissue relatively
undamaged." "The treated areas heal rapidly because the skin appendages escape
permanent damage." Kaplan, Isaac; "The CO2 Laser In Clinical Surgery: Past, Present,
and Future", Journal of Clinical Laser Medicine and Surgery, Pg. 341-343, Volume 9,
No. 5, 1991.
13. "Surgical laser technology has been available for nearly 30 years and is being used
increasingly in many surgical disciplines including orthopedic surgery." Cahill, Sandy;
Kopta, Joseph A.; Kosanke, Stanley D.; Rayan, Ghazi M.; Stanfield, Denver T.; "Effects
of Rapid Pulsed CO2 Laser Beam on Cortical Bone In Vivo", Lasers in Surgery and
Medicine, Pg. 615-620, Volume 12, No. 6, 1992.
14. "The lack of wound contraction, scarring, and good reepithelialization combined with
precise tissue destruction makes CO2 laser surgery ideal for this procedure when
compared with conventional techniques." Keng, S. B.; Loh, H. S.; "The Treatment of
Epulis Fissuratum of the Oral Cavity by CO2 Laser Surgery", Journal of Clinical Laser
Medicine and Surgery, Pg. 303-306, Volume 10, No. 4, 1992.
15. "The advantage of the CO2 laser technique was that it produced minimal thermal
damage to the surrounding tissues." Fallouh, Hayel; Sultan, Raymond A.; "Combined
CO2-Nd:YAG Radiation in Liver and Anorectal Diseases", Journal of Clinical Laser
Medicine and Surgery, Pg. 255-263, Volume 10, No. 4, 1992.
FURTHER READING
1. Sherk, Henry H., Editor, Lasers in Orthopaedics, J.B. Lippincott Company,
Philadelphia, PA, 1990.
2. Ballow, Edward B., D.P.M., Editor, Laser Surgery of the Foot, First Edition,
International Society of Podiatric Laser Surgery, Doylestown, PA, 1988.
3. Joffe, Stephen N.; Schroder, Tom; Lasers in General Surgery, Year Book Medical
Publishers, Inc., Laser Center of America, Cincinnati, OH, 1987.
4. "Lasers In Podiatry and Orthopedics", Nursing Clinics of North America, Vol. 25, No.
3, September 1990.
PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY "PDT"
MECHANISM OF OPERATION
1. Requires an injection, dissemination and systemic absorption of protoporphyrins
2. Malignant cells take up the protoporphyrin
These can be visualized under UV light
Patient must remain away from all light during this treatment session and have a
photosensitivity up to six weeks post treatment
3. Laser radiation is applied at a specified frequency, usually red light area. and for a
specified time - result is Joules to tissue
4. Wavelength depends on protoporphyrin
5. Results is a single oxygen produced which destroys malignant tissue selectively
BIOSTIMULATION "BIOSTIM"
1. A few milliwatts hitting mitochondria stimulating thermal mechanism.
2. No heat is produced.
3. Mitochondrial chromophores.
4. This is FDA investigational.
5. Applied to wound healing, to nerve regeneration, and chronic pain--analgesic.
6. Elicits a systemic effects
7. 0 milliwatts, tunable dye, helium-neon, 12 joules per week for 30 weeks
8. Applied to rheumatoid arthritis, trigeminal neuralgia, osteoarthritis, sciatica, diabetic
neuropathy.
9. Has 60 to 85% of pain relief
10. 5-hydroxyindolacetic acid, 5-HIAA produced
Urinary HIAA output increase correlated with pain relief
11. Systemic effects:
stimulation of human lymphocytes
Decreased pain and inflammation of distant ion irradiated sites Increased urinary 5-
HIAA, product of serotonin metabolism
12. Dose:
50 milliwatts, tuneable dye or helium-neon laser, 12 joules per week for 30 weeks.
13. Proposed mechanism:
absorption of light by photoreceptor or chromophore in the mitochondria activates the
respiratory chain, resulting in a cellular response.
14. Primary process:
a. Electron train excitation
b. acceleration of electron transfer in redox pairs (activates and stimulates).
c. Transfer of excitation energy from oxygen
to single oxygen (oxidative effect inhibiting healing).
d. Respiratory chain components are probably the primary photoacceptors.
e. Flavins, cytochromes, cytochrome oxidase.
f. Respiratory chain in a unitary dynamic system can be acted upon
at various points causing change in the whole state of response.
Summary:
1. Effects are dose dependent. Higher energies seem to be damaging.
2. Coherent light is preferred versus non-coherent.
3. Narrowed band monochromatic light preferred, i.e. helium-neon coherent and
monochromatic light
4. Competing wavelengths cancel the effects, therefore coherent light is preferred.
5. Transcutaneous irradiation penetrates deeply enough to
produce generalized effect in many cases.
6. 4 joules/cm2 penetrates approximately 1 cm.
7. Local radiation with systemic effects.
i.e., 5-HIAA production from serotonin metabolism.
8. Depends upon the physiological status of cell before radiation.
9. The biostimulation effect is not always possible.
Chapter 38: Specific
Radiological Pathology
MRI Pathology
SPECIFIC RADIOLOGICAL STUDIES
MRI Pathology
1. Posterior tibial tendon tear (grade 2): Photographs 1-4
Discussion: Photograph #1 is a T1 weighted image with a low signal around the
posterior tibial tendon. The dark center is tendon, (clear arrow) which is not
completely dark but has some areas of grey, which indicated an intrasubstance
tear. The low signal around the tendon (dark arrow) indicates that there is fluid
around the tendon. Photograph #2 is a T2 weighted image, which shows
significant fluid around the posterior tibial tendon, indicating a Grade 2 tear.
Photograph # 1
Photograph #2
Photograph #3 is a T1 weighted image (sagittal view) showing irregularity with
in the tendon (lobulated dark area) with the white area below indicating fluid
accumulation. Photograph #4 is a T2 weighted image (sagittal view) showing a
white area of increased signal intensity behind the posterior tibial tendon
consistent with a grade 2 tear
Photograph #3
Photograph #4
2. Achilles tendon tear: Photograph 5
Discussion: A T1 weighted image (sagittal view) revealing a linear signal within
the Achilles tendon of higher signal intensity, which is consistant with an
intrasubstance tear and overall thickening about 4-6 cm above the insertion of
the tendon
Photograph #5
3. Achilles tendon rupture: Photograph 6 & 7
Discussion: Photograph #6 is a T1 weighted image (sagittal view) revealing a
large signal of low intensity surrounding the Achilles tendon in Kager's triangle.
Photograph #7 is a T2 weighted image (sagittal view) showing a signal of bright
intensity (acute hemorrhage) with complete loss of continuity of the Achilles
tendon
Photograph #6
Photograph #7
4. Aneurysmal bone cyst: Photograph 8 & 9
Discussion: Photograph #8 is a T2 weighted image (axial view) through
the calcaneus and tarsus. In the calcaneus there is a higher signal above and a
lower signal below in each of the pockets. This is consistant with an
aneurysmal bone cyst, which is multiloculated. The reason for the difference in
signal intensity within the pockets, is the blood constituents settling to the
bottom and serosanguinous materials settling to the top. Photograph #9 is a T1
weighted image (sagittal view) with a low homogenous signal from the
calcaneus. Diagnosis can be made from the T2 image
Photograph #8
Photograph #9
5. Tophaceous gout: Photograph 10
Discussion: Photograph # 10 is a T1 weighted image (sagittal view) with a low
intensity signal visable over the dorsal aspect of the foot invading into the lesser
tarsus. The T2 signal (not shown) has a brighter (higher) signal but not what
fluid filled lesion would look like. This is consistent with tophaceous gout.
Photograph #10
6. Giant cell tumor: Photograph 11
Discussion: Photograph #11 reveals a T1 weighted image (axial view) showing a
low instensity signal mass inferior to the sesmoid and flexor apparatus. This is
a giant cell tumor over the flexor hallucis longus
Photograph #11
7. Avascular necrosis of tarsal navicular: Photograph 12 Discussion:
Photograph #12 is a T1 weighted image (sagittal view) revealing a signal of low
intensity throughout the navicular. This is consistent with a avascular necrosis
Photograph #12
8. Osteochondritis dissecans: Photograph 13-15
Discussion: Photograph #13 is a T1 weighted (sagittal view) demonstrating a
low signal lesion on the lateral talar dome. Photograph #14 is a T2 weighted
image (sagittal view) demonstrating a high signal from the lateral talar dome.
Photograph #15 is a T1 (coronal view) demonstrating a low signal intensity
lesion of the anterior talar dome. This is consistent with osteochondritis
dissecans
Photograph #13
Photograph #14
Photograph #15
9. Osteogenic sarcoma: Photograph 16 & 17
Discussion: Photograph #16 is a proton density image (combination of a T1 and
T2) demonstrating increased signal intensity with loss of normal fatty marrow
signal. Also there is an increase in dark signal intensity of the posterior aspect
of the tibia. Photograph #17 is a T1 weighted image through the tibia (sagittal
view) showing increased signal intensity centrally. This lesion was proven by
biopsy to be an osteogenic sarcoma
Photograph #17
10. Brodie's abcess/yeast infection: Photograph 18 & 19
Discussion: Photograph #18 is a T1 weighted image (sagittal view)
demonstrating loss of fatty marrow signal in the tibia with a loculated-type
lesion. Photograph #19 is a STIR image (a fat supression technique)
demonstrating increased signal within the lobulated lesion, and increased
signal intensity within the marrow of the distal tibia. This was consistent of a
Brodie's abcess due to a yeast infection in a previously undiagnosed HIVpositive
patient
Photograph #18
Photograph #19
11. Diabetic osteolysis: Photograph 20 & 21
Discussion: Photograph #20 is a T1 weighted image (sagittal view)
demonstrating loss of cortical margins of the first metatarsal head, with loss of
signal intensity of the fatty marrow and destruction of the 1st metatarsal head.
There is a plantar ulceration underneath the first metatarsal head. Photograph
#21 is a STIR image revealing no increased signal within the meatarsal shaft
which helps eliminate the diagnosis of osteomyelitis. This is consistent with
diabetic osteolysis.
Photograph #20
Photograph #21
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Snow JC, Manual of Anesthesia, Little Brown, Boston, 1988
Vanore J, Osteosynthesis Techniques in the Foot and Ankle, P.P.M.A., 1989
Vender JS, Post Anesthesia Care, Saunders, Philadelphia, 1992
Weissman SD, Radiology of the Foot, Williams & Wilkins, Baltimore, 1989
Zang K: Traumatic Ankle Conditions, Futura, Mount Kisco, N.Y., 1976
Zier BG, Essentials of Internal Medicine in Clinical Podiatry, Saunders,
Philadelphia, 1990
Hershey Board Certification Review
Outline Study Guide
by
Jonathan M. Singer, D.P.M.
Diplomate American Board of Podiatric Surgery
Fellow American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons
Diplomate American Board of Podiatric Orthopedics & Primary Podiatric
Medicine
Fellow American College of Foot & Ankle Orthopedics & Medicine
Edited by
James Lawton, D.P.M., Gene K. Potter, D.P.M., Ph.D.,
and Samuel L. Deitch, D.P.M.
Contributors
Peter F. Kelly, D.P.M., Gene K. Potter, D.P.M., Ph.D.,
Steven J. Berlin, D.P.M., Steven Kravitz, D.P.M., Guido
LaPorta, D.P.M., M.S., James Lawton, D.P.M., Arthur E.
Helfand, D.P.M., Fredrick E. Youngblood, M.D., Douglas
Glod, D.P.M., Christopher E. Attinger, M.D., Libby Cone,
M.D., Edwin J. Juda, D.P.M., William H. Simon, D.P.M.,
John Walter, D.P.M.
© 1998 Pennsylvania Podiatric Medical Association
Acknowledgements
William Goldfarb D.P.M. and Nancy Sullivan, for supporting
me and believing this book could be done
Copyright © 1998
Pennsylvania Podiatric Medical Association 757 Poplar Church Road
Camp Hill, Pennsylvania 17011 (800)-841-3668
All rights reserved
This book is protected by copyright. No part of this book may be reproduced in any
form or by any means, including photocopying, or utilized by any information
storage or retrieval system without written permission from the copyright owner.
Accurate indications, adverse reactions, and dose schedules for drugs are provided in
this book, but It is possible that they may change. The reader is urged to review the
package information data of the manufacturers of the medications mentioned.
The author has made every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information herein.
However, appropriate information sources should be consulted, especially for new or
unfamiliar procedures. It is the responsibility of every practitioner to evaluate the
appropriateness of a particular opinion in the context of actual clinical situations
and with consideration to new developments. The author, editors, and publisher
cannot be held responsible for any typographical or other errors found In this book.
Chapter 11: Fluid Management and Chapter 17: Nail Disorders & Surgery
Replacement in the Surgical Patient Nail Entities: page 256-260
Fluid Management: page 150-152 Nail Anatomy: page 260
Complications of Total Parenteral Nutrition: Surgical Nail Procedures: page 262-263
page 152
Replacement Therapy: page 152-153 Chapter 18: Neurology
Blood Products and Indications for Use: Neurological Pathways: page 266
page 153-156 Presenting Features: page 266-270
Composition of IV Fluids: page156-157 Assessment of Clinical Problems: page 270-
278
Chapter 12: Bone Tumors Innervation of the Lower Extremity: page
Introduction: page 160 278-281
Staging Techniques: page 160-161 Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome: page 282-284
Surgical Staging System: page 161 Classification of Nerve Injuries: page 284-
Radiology of Bone Tumors: page 161-162 285
Bone Tumors: Page 163-168 Neuromuscular Causes of Cavus Foot: page
Cystic Lesions of Bone: page 168-169 285
Other Tumors and Cancers: page 169-170 Types of Nerve Surgery: page 285-288
Bone Tumors: A Quick Reference Chart:
page 170-171 Chapter 19: Pediatrics
Phases in Cancer Development: page 171 Evaluation of the Pediatric Patient: page
Benign vs. Malignant: page 172 290-293
Pedicatric Biomechanics-Normal Values:
Chapter 13: Dermatology Newborn to Adult: page 293
The Skin: page 174 Congential Deformities: page 293-302
Dermatological Lesions: page 175-182 Pediatric Radiology: page 302-304
Pediatric Gait Patterns: page 304-305
Chapter 14: The Arthropathies Intoe Gait: page 306-307
Causes of Joint Pain: A Summary: page 184 Pediatric Fractures: page 307-318
The Arthropathies: page 184-195 The Limp in Childhood: page 318-319
Lab Testing for the Arthropathies: page 195 Juvenile Hallux Valgus: page 319-320
Articular Disorders Affecting the Heel: page Biomechanical Examination of the Child:
195-196 page 320-323
Synovial Fluid Analysis: page 197 Corrective Casting Techniques in Infants:
Charcot Foot: page 198-199 page 323-324
The Toe-Walking Child: page 324-326
Chapter 15: Peripheral Vascular Disease
Patient Evaluation: page 202-212 Chapter 20: Drugs and Drug Interactions
The Vascular Diseases: page 212-215 Introduction to Drug Interactions: page 328
Antibiotic Drug Interactions: page 328-329
Chapter 16: Internal & External Fixation Anticoagulant Drug Interactions: page 330
Objectives of Fixation Devices: page 218 Antihypertensive Drug Interactions: page
Requirements of Implant Materials: page 330-331
Antipsychotic Drug Interactions: page 331 Physical Examination: page 418-419
Cardiac Drug Interactions: page 331-332 Preoperative Considerations: page
Diuretic Drug Interactions: page 332 419
Non Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug Arthroplasty Procedures: page 419
Interactions: page 332-333 420
Oral Contraceptive Drug Interactions: page Capsule-Tendon Balancing
333 Procedures: page 421-422
Mechanisms of Drug Interactions: page Implant Arthroplasty Procedures:
333-335 page 422-426
Specific Drugs: page 335-344 Arthrodesing Procedures: page 426
429
Chapter 21: Surgery of the Congenital Foot Proximal Phalangeal Osteotomies:
Flatfoot Surgery (flexible): page 346-355 page 429-431
Subtalar Joint Blocking Procedures: Distal Metatarsal Osteotomies: page
(Arhroereises and Arthrodesis): page 355- 432-436
356 Proximal Metatarsal Osteotomies:
Flatfoot Surgery (rigid): Convex Pes Plano page 436-438
Valgus: page 356-358 Shaft Osteotomies: page 438-439
Metatarsus Adductus Surgery: page 358- Combination Procedures: page 439
362 Other Procedures: page 439-440
Cavus Foot Surgery: page 362-367 Hallux Rigidus and Limitus: page
Clubfoot Surgery: page 368-373 440-445
Hallux Varus: page 445-446
Chapter 22: Generalized Disease Conditions Hallux Hammertoe: page 446
of Bone Diff. Diagnosis of Pain In the
Soft Tissue Overgrowth: page 376 Sesamoid Area: page 446
Abnormalities of Alignment: page 376-377 Complications of HAV Surgery: page
General Increased Bone Density: page 377 447
Osteopenia: page 377-378 HAV Procedure Chart and Their
Marrow Abnormalities: page 378- Indications: page 448
379
The Dysplasias: page 379-380 Chapter 25: Trauma
Medical Management and General
Chapter 23: Radiology Assessment of the Trauma Patient:
Standard Radiographic Techniques page 450-451
of the Foot and Ankle: page 382- Assessment of Lower Extremity
383 Injury: page 451
Specific Radiographic Studies: page General Evaluation and Treatment
383-391 of Fractures: page 451-452
Anatomic Angles: page 391-396 Calcaneal Fractures: page 452-460
Common Structural Measurements Talar Fractures: page 460-463
(Diagrams): page 396-402 Osteochondral Fractures: page 463
Pediatric Radiology: page 402-406 465
The Osteochondritities: page 406-407 Navicular Fractures: page 466-470
The Accessory Bones of the Foot: Cuboid Fractures: page 470-472
page 407 Cuneiform Fractures: page 472
Fifth Metatarsal Base Fractures: page
Chapter 24: Hallux Valgus & 472-474
Related Disorders Metatarsal Fractures: page 474-480
Goals of HAV Surgery: page 410 Ankle Fractures: page 480-493
Anatomical Facts of the 1st MPJ: Midtarsal Joint Dislocations: page 494
page 410-411 Tarsometatarsal Joint
Predisposing Factors: page 412 Dislocations/Fractures: page 494-498
Biomechanics: page 412-414 Ankle Inversion Sprain: page 498
Etiology of HAV: page 414-415 505
Deformity Types: page 416-417 Deltoid Ligament Ruptures: page
Radiological Measurements for HAV: 506-507
page 417-418 Compartment Syndrome: page 507
508 571-572
Open Fracture Classification System Tenosynovitis: page 572
and Tx: page 508-510
Soft Tissue Injuries: page 510-511 Chapter 28: Lesser Metatarsal
Crush, Gunshot, and Lawnmower Surgery
Injuries: page 511-512 Anatomy (Metatarsals 2-3-4): page
Puncture Wounds: page 512 574-575
Epiphyseal Plate Injuries: page 512-514 Differential Diagnosis of
Digital Fractures and Dislocations: Metatarsalgia: page 575
page 514-515 Surgical Treatment of the IPK: page
1st MPJ Trauma: page 516-517 575-578
Nail Bed Trauma: page 517-518 Lesser Metatarsal Joint Replacement:
Toe Tip Injuries With Tissue Loss: page 578-579
page 518-519 Panmetatarsal Head Resection: page
Dog and Cat Bites: page 519 579-581
Metatarsus Adductus: page 581-585
Chapter 26: Digital Deformities Freiberg's Disease: page 585-587
and Surgery Tailor's Bunion: page 587-589
Hammertoe Syndrome: page 522- Splayfoot: page 589
528 Brachymetatarsia
Mallet Toe Syndrome: page 528-529 (Brachymetetopody): page 589-591
Claw Toe Deformity: page 529 Skewfoot: page 591-592
Overlapping 5th Toe: page 529-532
Hallux Hammertoe: page 532-533 Chapter 29: Ankle Conditions
Lesser Digital Arthrodesis: page 533 Differential Diagnosis of Chronic
Hallux Interphalangeal Arthrodesis: Ankle Pain: page 594
page 533 Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome: page 594-
Lesser Digital Arthrodesis: page 533- 597
534 Sinus Tarsi Syndrome: page 597-
Overlapping 2nd Toe: page 534 599
Syndactylization: page 534-535 Peroneal Subluxation: page 599-
Digital Implants: page 535-537 600
Floating Toe Syndrome: page 537 Ankle Arthrodesis: page 600-602
Blue Toe Syndrome: page 538-539 Lateral Ankle Instability: page 603
Polydactylism: page 539-541 Chronic Lateral Ankle Instability:
page 604-607
Chapter 27: Muscle and Tendon Chronic Medial Ankle Instability:
Pathology page 607
Muscle Physiology: page 544-548 Ankle Equinus: page 607-611
Principles of Tendon Repair: page Malunion and Nonunion of the
548-552 Malleolei: page 611-614
Tendon Lengthening and
Tenotomy: page 552-554 Chapter 30: Heel Conditions
Tendon Transfers: page 554-556 Anatomy of the Heel: page 616-617
Tendon Grafts: page 556-557 Radiological Evaluation of the Calcaneus:
Posterior Tibial Tendon Rupture: page 617-618
page 557-559 The Heel in Systemic Disease:
Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction page 618-621
(Acquired Adult Flatfoot Syndrome): Seronegative Arthritis and Heel Pain:
page 559-560 page 621-622
Peroneal Tendon Pathology: page Heel Spurs and Heel Spur
560-562 Syndrome: page 622-623
Achilles Tendon Rupture: page 562- Tumors of the Heel: page 623-626
566 Tarsal Coalitions: page 626-629
Lateral Ankle Stabilization Sever's Disease: page 629-630
Procedures: page 566-571 Causes of Heel Pain (a summary):
Postoperative Care and Training page 630-631
Following Tendon Transfer: page Haglund's Deformity: page 631-632
Chapter 37: Laser Applications in
Chapter 31: Amputations Podiatric Surgery
General Surgical Technique: page Laser and Laser Physics:
634 page 741-751
Digital Amputations: page 634-635 Clinical Applications in Podiatric
MPJ Amputations: page 635 Surgery: page 751-775
Transmetatarsal Amputations: page
635-636 Chapter 38: Specific Radiological
Tarsometatarsal Amputations Pathology
(Lisfranc's): page 637 MRI Pathology: page 777-800
Midfoot Amputations (Chopart's):
page 638
Amputation of the Ankle (Syme's,
Boyd, Pirogoff): page 638-639
Below Knee Amputation: page 639-
640
HPI:
N: no pain
L: corresponding to the area under the 1st metatarsal head
D: x 3 weeks but probably longer
O: gradual onset; started out as a blister
A: none, except that it is starting to smell. (This is why her husband made her come in)
T: clean it with hydrogen peroxide and apply Vasaline to it
S: fever and nausea x 2 days.
Pt arrived with a bandaid covering the area. Yellow drainage observed.
PMH:
1. DM2 x 18 years. Last seen by MD 2 months ago. FBS at that time was 138 mg/dl.
She was advised to check her blood sugar each morning using an accucheck
machine, but does not do this regularly
2. HTN x 12 years. MD tells her that it is under control
3. Hyperlipidemia x 10 years
PSH:
1. Fx ulna as a child
2. Hysterectomy, 20 years ago
Allergies:
1. PCN
She was told this as a child. She doesn’t know what happens if she takes this.
Medications:
1. 40 units of NPH insulin q AM
2. HCTZ
3. Captopril
4. K-lor
5. Lipitor
SH:
1. + Tobacco use – 1 ppd x 30 years
2. Denies EtOH and illicit drug use
3. Occupation: housewife
FH:
2 children who are alive and well
Father deceased from diabetic complications
Mother alive and well with HTN
ROS:
General: increased fatigue over the past 3 – 4 days
Eyes: wears glasses
Lungs: SOB upon exertion
PV: leg cramps after walking 2 blocks
Neuro: tingling and burning of the feet
Physical Exam
T = 101.5
P = 100
RR = 20
BP = 100/65
Accucheck = 280
Ht: 61 inches
Wt: 185 lbs (84.1 kg)
Derm/Integ:
The right foot is substantially warmer than the left. The entire right foot is erythematous
to the level of the ankle joint with increased intensity around the first and second rays.
Deep ulceration 1.5 cm in diameter located under the 1st metatarsal head, right foot. The
base is a mixture of granular and fibrotic tissue. Some dry yellow pus is apparent upon
inspection of the wound. When the area proximal to the wound is squeezed,
approximately 3cc of creamy yellow pus is expressed through the ulcer. With the use of a
cotton tip applicator, the wound probes to the 1st MT head as well as laterally into the 1st
interspace. Malodor is present but no specific smell can be distinguished. The borders are
mildly hyperkeratotic.
Vasc:
DP and PT pulses are non palpable bilateral. Popliteal pulses are palpable bilateral. The
entire right foot is edematous corresponding to the erythema.
Neuro:
Diminished protective sensation to the level of the ankle joint using SWMF. Achilles and
patellar DTRs are 2/4 and symmetric. Muscle mass is WNL and muscle strength is 5/5.
M/S:
Plantarflexed 1st ray right greater than left. Dorsally contracted digits 2 – 5 bilateral.
Slightly decreased medial arch bilateral.
Relevant Questions – Case Study #1
1. What are some tests that you may want to order & some consults to consider?
- Order the standard 3 x-rays (AP, lateral and lateral oblique). You may also want to
consider an axial sesamoidal view do to the location and way that this ulcer probes. There
may be an infection in the sesamoids and this is a great way to see them unobsecured.
This view may not be necessary, however.
- Order labs: CBC with a differential, ESR, CRP, HbA1C, Chem 7, Albumin.
CBC with diff: looking for a left shift. This means that there are more immature
neutrophils (Bands) hanging out.
ESR: This is a non-specific marker of inflammation. An ESR >70 is highly correlated
with the presence of osteomyelitis. This is a measurement that can be followed to
determine the effectiveness of treatment but BEWARE! ESR can lag behind clinical
presentation.
CRP: Used mainly as a marker of inflammation. Measuring and charting C-reactive
protein values can prove useful in determining disease progress or the effectiveness of
treatments.
HbA1C: This is a marker of the long term glucose control in diabetic patients.
Chem 7: There are several values that can be of interest in this panel. Potassium is
important in heart function. Make sure that it isn’t going crazy. This is important if you
are going to consider surgical intervention. BUN and creatinine are markers of kidney
function. The nephrons of the kidney can be affected by the disease course of diabetes.
These values can also be used to calculate any renal dosing of antibiotics. Anion gap can
be calculated from several values in this panel
Albumin: This is a marker of nutrition. Some clinicians use this as a measurement of
whether or not a patient has the ability (base on a nutritional standpoint) to heal.
- Gram stain, culture & sensitivity: If you are unsure of the infecting organism, this can
be helpful. In this particular case, make sure that a deep culture is taken. It may be
advantageous to consider a quantative culture as well.
- Pre-Op Testing
As with all things this can be hospital or surgery center dependent. Some general tests
may include the following:
CXR: This patient is a smoker. Chest x-rays are always good in smokers.
EKG: Takes a peak at the electrical activity of the heart and can help determine if any
previous infarcts or other pathology exist. Acute MI are large killers of DM pts
UA: Does she have a UTI?
Labs – Case Study #1
X-rays:
No sign of osteomyelitis
No soft tissue emphysema
Edematous soft tissues around the entire right foot
Na 135
K 3.2 Na+ (135 – 145)| Cl – (98 – 109) | BUN (10 – 20)
Cl 101 --------------------|--------------------|------------------< Glucose (70 – 120)
CO2 26 K+ (3.5 – 5.5) | CO2 (20 – 30) | Cr (0.5 – 1.5)
BUN 22
CR 2.9
Glucose 291
Albumin 2.6
HbA1C 11.5
ESR: 92
UA: + protein
Microbiology
Gram stain: Many gram + cocci
Few gram – rods
Cultures: S. aureus
E. coli
B. fragilis
Vascular Studies:
Handheld Doppler reveals monophasic waveforms
ABI: L = 0.47
R = 0.31
(Should be greater than 0.45)
TcPO2 L = 36.5
R = 20.7
(Should be greater than 30)
Relevant Questions – Case Study #1
1. If you were to write admit orders for this patient, what headings would you cover?
Admit to service
Diagnosis
Condition
Vitals Acronym: ADC VAN DILMAX
Activity
Nursing
Diet
Ins & Outs
Labs
Medications
Ancillary
X-rays
12. What are some commonly used antibiotics that do not require renal dosing?
Clindamycin, Erythromycin, Chloramphenicol, Cefoperazone
13. Name 4 common PCN combination drugs used in diabetic foot infections and their
dosages
Unacyn (Ampicillin/Sulbactam) 1.5, 3.0 g IV q6h
Zosyn (Piperacillin/Tazobactam) 3.375 g q 4 – 6h; 4.5 g q4-6h for pseudomonas
Timentin (Ticracillin/Clavualanate) 3.1 g q4 – 6h
Augmentin (Amoxicillin/Clavualanate)500 – 879 PO BID or 250 – 500 PO TID
14. Estimate this patient’s blood glucose over the past 120 days.
16. What are some parameters used to evaluate a patient’s probability for healing?
vascular (ABI > 0.45); nutrition (albumin > 3.0); immune status (TLC >1500)
17. What are the minimum levels of albumin and TLC required for healing?
Albumin of 3.0 g/dl
TLC of 1500
From: Dickhaut et al, JBJS 1984
21. Which class of antibiotics can cause a neuromuscular blockade and what do you give
to reverse this?
Aminoglycosides
Give Calcium to reverse the blockade
28. What is the minimum TcPO2 needed for healing? Who said this?
30 mmHg
Wyss, Harrington & Burgess, JBJS, 1988
Eosinophils: Normal 1 – 6%
Increase: allergic reactions, parasitic diseases
Basophils: Normal 1 – 2%
Source of histamine; contain heparin
Increase in basophils is usually associated with an increase in Mast cells
(basophils in tissue)
Increase: myxedema, blood vessel injury
T – Thalassemias
I – Iron Deficiency
C – Chronic Inflammation (anemia)
S – Sideroblastic anemia (check pt for Pb toxicity)
S – Systemic Inflammation
Z – Zero production
E – Endocrine disorders e.g. hypothyroid disease
Macrocytic anemias D/Dx pneumonic = BIG FAT RED CELLS
B – B12 deficiency
I – Inherited problem
G – G/I
C – Chemotherapeutic Rx
E – Erythroleukemia
L – Liver Disease
L – Lesch- Nyan Syndrome (“zebra”)
S – Splenectomy
Radiographic Analysis
- always obtained for any patient undergoing osseous resection, penetrating wounds,
ulcerations
- several standard views (usually 3)
- good quality
-available at time of surgery
Cultures
- any open wound, especially in diabetic or immunocompromised patients
- will help with individual tailoring of abx treatment
Ancillary Tests
- Women under the age of 50 – pregnancy or HCG test should be performed
- Patients over the age of 40 – EKG to rule out arrhythmias
- Over 50 with history of smoking – Chest X-ray
Case Study #2
HPI: 22 yr old female patient comes to the office seeking treatment for a three day history
of left foot and ankle swelling, redness and warmth. Pt does not complain of pain and
denies trauma or recent illness.
X-ray:
9. Describe the two theories associated with the development of Charcot joints.
Neurovascular (French) Theory damage to the trophic nervous centers with an
alteration in the sympathetic control of blood flow to bones and joints leads to persistent
hyperemia and active bone resorption
Neurotraumatic (German) Theory An extreme progression of degenerative joint
disease following loss of proprioception and protective pain sensation
10. How do you tell the difference between Charcot and osteomyelitis?
- use of the MRI is becoming popular
- definitive way: bone biopsy with microbiological diagnosis
- use of the WBC labeled bone scan – osteomyelitis will be hot, charcot will not be hot
- Plain radiographs:
Charcot Osteomyelitis
Bone destruction and fragmentation Bone destruction present
Increased soft tissue density Increased soft tissue density
Sclerosis may be present; osteoporosis may Early sclerosis with osteoporosis in later
be present as diabetic osteolysis progression
Progressive resorption is usually not Progressive resorption is present
present
Sequestrum formation may be mimicked Sequestrum formation occurs
by fragmentation
Subperiosteal new bone formation Subperiosteal new bone formation
Schon LC et al. Charcot Neuroarthropathy of the foot and ankle. Clinical orthopedics and
related research. 349, 1998.
Mann: early stage I (before development of osteopenia from local hyperemia) or late
stage II when new bone formation is occurring
Foot and Ankle Surgery, 1999.
Johnson: operative treatment is usually carried out in Stage III after conservative care
has been exhausted. An acute charcot fracture can be treated with ORIF in stage I if
performed early before bone stock become insufficient for fracture.
Johnson JE. Operative treatment of neuropathic arthropathy of the foot and ankle. JBJS
80A Nov 1998.
Myerson: surgery is necessary in the acute phase of skin necrosis resulting from the
pressure of a dislocated bone is imminent or other skin problems are likely to occur as a
result of casting. Surgery is also indicated at this time for marked dislocation of the foot
that is likely to cause problems with shoewear at a later date. Surgery can only be
performed if bone stock is adequate, therefore, he rarely operates if more than 6 weeks
after the beginning of the acute phase. In the setting of acute neuroarthropathy associated
with infection and surgery is indicated, Myserson uses an external fixator to stabilize the
foot. Surgery should probably be reserved until Stage II or III.
Foot and Ankle Disorders, 1999.
Jean Marie Charcot 1868 – French neurologist. Concisely describe the neuropathic
component of the disease. Linked the condition to syphilis which was very common at
the time.
Edmonds et al (1985) – Increased blood flow was partially responsible for the osteopenia
and ‘washing out of bone’ seen in Charcot. Neurovascular theory.
16. What are the relevant lab tests that can help lead to a diagnosis of charcot?
WBC will be elevated with a left shift on the differential acute osteomyelitis
ESR is non specific may not be helpful
Tech 99 bone scans may or may not be helpful
Indium 111 bone scans much more specific.
If + do bone biopsy to confirm osteomyelitis and r/o Charcot
If - dx is charcot until proven otherwise
Certec scan labeled white blood cells. May also be helpful
Probe to bone
If + procede to bone biopsy
If - continue with other tests
What must happen in order for the rigid beam effect of the digits to occur?
The muscles involved with gait must fire in the correct order. Breaks in the sequence lead
to inability of the toes to purchase the ground.
Flexible deformities may be able to be managed with biomechanics; may not need
surgery
Flexor stabilization:
- occurs in stance phase of gait
- FDL gains mechanical advantage of the interossei
- Can occur in flexible flatfoot, neuromuscular dz that leads to weakness of the interossei,
spasticity of the FDL
- Flexible flatfoot: quadratus plantae also looses mechanical advantage; FDL fires longer
and sooner to help stabilize the floppy and abducted forefoot; oblique pull of FDL leads
to adductovarus deformity of the 5th, 4th and possibly 3rd. SELDOM the 2nd. Contraction
of these digits will be seen in mid to late stance phase of gait.
Extensor substitution:
- excessive dorsiflexion of digits during swing phase of gait and at heel strike
- EDL has gained mechanical advantage over the lumbricales
- causes: weak lumbricles, spastic EDL, pes cavus (especially flexible pes cavus), weak
anterior group, contracture of the Achilles tendon, pain in the anterior part of the foot
Surgical Correction:
- Hibbs tenosuspension
- detach the EDL at the MPJ
- EDL attached to 3rd cuneiform
- EDB transected and sewn to the EHL
- may work to control HDS caused by extensor substitution
- arthrodesis of the proximal interphalangeal joint
- prox phalanx head resection with soft tissue release will lead to rapid recurrence
- AFO or dropfoot leg brace
Flexor substitution:
- occurs when there is weakness of the triceps surae
-FDL gains mechanical advantage as in flexor stabilization but b/c there is weakness in
the Achilles tendon there is late stance phase supintaion rather than pronation
Flexor substitution:
- arthrodesis of the PIPJ is often required
- transfer the PT tendon and the PL tendon to the calcaneus
- combination of the above
Etiology of HAV
1. Primary Pathobiomechanics
a. Pronation is the root of all evil. We should know this by now.
b. Hypermobile 1st ray
c. Long 1st ray
d. LLD
e. Metatarsus primus elevatus (this is more a hallux limitus issue, however)
2. Secondary
a. Trauma (like gun shots)
b. Rheumatic: look at the RA x-rays, this is pretty obvious
c. Neuromuscular: tendon/muscle imbalance
d. Genetic or collagen disorders: Marfan’s or Down Syndrome
e. Flat foot
f. Gout
g. Iatrogenic (i.e. tibial sesamoidectomy)
Pathomechanics of HAV
This is a progressive disorder characterized by 4 stages. The longer that it takes to
progress from one stage to the next, the less severe the resulting deformity will be. The
factors which affect the HAV deformity are:
1. walking surface
2. shoe gear
3. length of patient’s stride (increasing the propulsive phase)
4. STJ subluxation
5. MTJ subluxation
6. obesity
7. degree of calcaneal eversion
8. forefoot adduction
9. inflammation of the MPJ
Patho-Anatomy of HAV
There are 4 articular facets within the synovial capsule:
1. metatarsal head
2. base of the proximal phalanx
3. tibial sesamoid
4. fibular sesamoid
The 1st MPJ has 9 ligaments
1. 2 collateral ligaments
2. 2 metatarso-sesamoidal ligaments
3. 2 phalangeal-sesamoidal ligaments
4. Intersesamoidal ligament
5. Deep transverse metatarsal ligament
6. Capsule
Stages of HAV
Stage I Lateral displacement of the proximal phalanx relative to the first
metatarsal head
Sagittal groove/sulcus where the corner of the proximal phalanx rubs into
the metatarsal head
Stage II Development of hallux abducto valgus deformity; the hallux abuts the 2nd
toe
1st MPJ is fairly congruent
Hallux abductus = abnormal
IM = normal
PASA = increased more lateral deviation of the cartilage
Stage III Increase in 1st IM angle
Stage IV Subluxed or dislocated hallux on the 1st metatarsal head
Axis Guides
Guides (usually .062 K-wire) designed to change the direction of the osteotomy.
So why do I care?
- this allows correction in the 2 planes
- these can change the direction of the osteotomy cut
What would you like to do? Direct the Axis Guide like this…
Shorten the met Distal medial to proximal lateral
Lengthen the met Proximal medial to distal lateral
Plantarflex the met No angulation from anterior to posterior
Dorsal medial to plantar lateral
Dorsiflex the met No angulation from anterior to posterior
Plantar medial to dorsal and lateral
Angle Formed By: Importance/Location of Normal Value Procedure
Deformity
Hallux - bisection of distal phalanx IPJ of hallux 0 – 10 Osseous
Interphalangeus - bisection of proximal phalanx Osseous deformity
Ex. Distal Akin
DASA - perpendicular to bisection of Fixed deformity 7.5 Osseous
prox phalanx Prox phalanx hallux abduction (0 – 8) in some Phalanx
- cartilage prox phalanx base literature
Ex. Proximal Akin
PASA - perpendicular to 1st met Fixed deformity 7.5 Osseous at 1st met head
bisection Trackbound joint (0 – 8) in some
- line connecting effective Lateral deviation/ abduction of prox literature Ex. Head wedgie procedure
cartilage of 1st met head phalanx on 1st met head
Hallux Abductus - prox phalanx shaft MPJ soft tissue deformity 10 – 15 Capsule tendon balance – or –
- 1st met head Osseous
Depending on the other angles
involved
IM Angle - bisection 1st met 1st ray fixed deformity 8 – 12 in rectus <14 – head
- bisection 2nd met foot 15 – 17 shaft
8 – 10 in >17 base
adducted foot
Metatarsus - lesser tarsal axis Increase in MA = increase in <15 Look at the IMt
Adductus - bisection 2nd met significance of other angles
Large MA HAV develops faster CBWO
Metatarsal - arc of 1st + longer 1st met +/- 2 mm Chose carefully
Protrusion - arc of 2nd - shorter 1st met
-
difference in mm
Tibial Seasmoid - position of tibial seasmoid > 4 may indicate fib seasmoid 1-3
- bisection of 1st met removal or degenerating cristae
Metatarsal Head Shapes
Round – usually most prone to developing HAV,
most reducible yet most the most unstable
Square – more stable
Square with a ridge – oblique or central ridge,
helps prevent lateral deviation of hallux;
compensatory hallux interphalangeus may be
seen with this; more commonly associated with
hallux rigidus or limitus; most stable
Capsulotomies
A – Vertical
B – U shaped
C – H shaped
D – T shaped
E – L shaped
A – Linear
B – T shaped
C – Inverted L
Silver (Silver, David: The operative treatment of hallux valgus. JBJS 5:225, 1923)
1. curved medial incision
2. removal of bursal sac
3. resection of dorsomedial eminence
4. lateral capsulotomy with medial capsulorraphy designed to reinforce the medial
collateral ligament and transpose dorsally the abductor hallucis tendon
5. lateral release
McBride (McBride, Earl: A conservative operations for bunions. JBJS 10:735, 1928)
1. 5 cm incision from the toe web along the lateral border of EHL
2. resection of the dorsomedial eminence
3. lateral release consisting of lateral capsulotomy with fibular sesamoid excision
4. transfer of the adductor hallucis and lateral head of FHB to the dorsolateral aspect
of the 1st met head
Adductor tendon transfer
1. dorsally through the capsule to reposition the sesamoids
2. into the 1st metatarsal neck to reduce the IM angle
transfer into the neck can be either dorsal to plantar or lateral to medial
Hiss (Hiss, J: Hallux valgus, its cause and simplifies treatment, Am J Surg 11:51, 1931)
1. Resection of the dorsomedial eminence
2. lateral capsulotomy
3. transfer of abductor hallucis from plantar to medial to the 1st MPJ (abductor
sutured into hole in the base of the proximal phalanx; acts as a ligament to
strengthen the capsule medially)
Stein (1938)
1. lateral release
2. resection of the medial eminence
3. Medial capsuloplasty to reposition to abductor hallucis more medially
Component Procedures
1. adductor transfer
2. capsulorraphy
3. EHL tendon lengthening
4. EHB tenotomy
Phalangeal Osteotomies
Proximal Akin (Akin, OF: The treatment of hallux valgus: a new
operative approach and its results. Med Sentinel 33:678, 1925.)
Distal Akin
1. Corrects for a large hallux interphalangeus angle
2. Performed 5 – 10 mm from the IPJ of the hallux
3. Distal cut is parallel to the surface of the head of the proximal phalanx
4. Proximal cut is perpendicular to the long axis of the shaft
5. Base medial; apex lateral
6. Fixation with 28-guage wire, single 0.045 K wire or 0.062 K wire with hinge
intact, if broken, 2 crossed K wires
Cylindrical Akin
Type A – Corrects for long proximal phalanx
Type B – Corrects for a long proximal phalanx and a
high DASA and/or HI angle
1. Proximal cut 1 – 1.5 cm distal to the
phalangeal base
2. Distal cut parallel to first cut or angulated to
reduce abductus
3. Fixation with crossed K-wires (0.045 or 0.062)
Oblique Akin
1. Indicated for and used to correct an increased hallux interphalangeus angle and an
increased DASA
2. Leave the hinge intact
The following two procedures are named for where the apex is (proximal vs
distal). The apex of the cut is always lateral.
o Oblique Proximal
Base: medial and distal
Apex: lateral and proximal
o Oblique Distal
Base: proximal and medial
Apex: distal and lateral
Shortening Sagittal Z
1. Good for a long proximal phalanx
2. Remove the darkened areas of the picture
3. Shortens the long hallux and reduces forces at the 1st met
head enhanced motion
Reverdin-Green (1977)
1. Indicated for an increased PASA
2. First cut is made parallel to the weight-bearing surface and
exits the bone just proximal to the 1st MTH avoiding the
articular surface
3. This preserves the articulation between the metatarsal heads
and the sesamoids
Reverdin-Green-Laird (1977)
1. Indicated for high PASA and high IM angle
2. Lateral cortex is cut, allowing lateral transposition of the capital fragment
Reverdin-Todd (1978)
1. Corrects PASA & IM angle
2. Can be used to PF the metatarsal (for met primus elevatus)
3. Proximal ostetomy is angled either dorsal-distal to plantar-proximal
(plantarflexing the capital fragment) or dorsal proximal to plantar distal
(dorsiflexing the capital fragment)
Peabody
1.Same as the Reverdin expect
osteotomy is performed at the anatomical neck.
Hohmann
1. Indicated for high PASA, IM angle and sagittal plane displacement
2. Trapezoidal osteotomy (base orientated medially) at the level of the metatarsl neck.
Through and through cut
3. Avoids sesamoidal irritation because this is a neck procedure.
Mitchell
1. Similar to the Hohmann.
2. Medial eminence resection
3. Lateral cortical strut left intact
4. No lateral release performed with this procedure.
5. Indications: Long first metatarsal (This procedure shortens the
1st met the most of any procedure)
Wilson
1. Oblique osteotomy oriented distal medial to proximal lateral
(through and through)
2. Capital fragment is shifted proximally and laterally along the
osteotomy
3. Capital fragment can also be translated dorsally or plantarly
Scarf or Z Osteotomy
1. Distal cut dorsal; proximal cut
plantar avoids the possibility of
scoring the sesamoid apparatus;
easier to fixate
2. Troughing effect: dorsal segment
of the Z (cortical bone) wants to sink
into the plantar segment when screws are tightened down.
Mau (1926)
1. The cut is distal dorsal to proximal plantar
(‘the airplane is taking off to Maui’)
2. You can use the angle of the cut to swivel the bone and reduce the
PASA
Ludloff (1918)
1. Cut medial to lateral through the bone from dorsal and proximal to
plantar and distal
2. You can use the angle of the cut to swivel the bone and reduce the
PASA
Proximal Osteotomies for HAV
Crescentic (Weinstock)
1. Indicated for high IM angle, short metatarsal
2. ½ moon shaped osteotomy created approximately 1.5 cm
distal to 1st met-cuneiform joint
3. When looking at the metatarsal from dorsal to plantar,
the concave portion of the osteotomy faces distally
4. The distal segment can be dorsiflexed or plantarflexed
5. The distal segment can be rotated until desired
correction is obtained
Loison – Balacescu
(Loison M: Note sur le traitment chirurgical du hallux valgus, d’apres
l’etude radiographique de la deformation, Bull Soc Chir 27:528, 1901.)
(Balacescu J: Un caz de hallux valgus simetric, Rev Chir Orthop 7:128,
1903)
1. Originally described as being at a point just distal to the insertion of the
peroneus longus tendon
2. Closing base wedge 1 cm from the met-cuneiform junction with medial
cortex left intact
3:1
1. Capsule tendon balance procedure
2. Closing abductory base wedge
3. Proximal akin osteotomy
Lapidus
(Lapidus PW: Operative correction of metatarsus varus
primus in hallux valgus, Surg Gynecol Obstet 58: 183, 1934)
1. Denuded cartilage of 1st met-cuneiform joint
2. Decorticated lateral aspect of the base of the 1st met and the
adjacent surface of the 2nd metatarsal base
3. Packed bone chips obtained from the resected medial
eminence
4. Indicated for very high IM angles, a medially orientated
proximal edge of the medial cuneiform and a hypermobile
first ray
Complications
1. Hallux varus
A. Etiology
1. Staking the head
2. Negative IM angle
3. Aggressively biasing the capsule
4. Negative PASA
5. Fibular sesamoidectomy
6. Aggressive post-op bandaging
B. Sequence of surgical correction
1. Scar revision
2. Dissection in planes
3. Capsuloplasty, V-Y or Z plasty or advancement (not simple linear
capsulotomy)
4. Degloving the articulation
5. Adductor tendon reefing
6. Abductor tendon transfer to lateral side
7. EHL lengthening
8. If dislocated, tibial sesamoidectomy (if, at this point, both sesamoids
have been removed do an IPJ arthrodesis)
9. Reverse Akin, Austin, Hohmann
10. Arthrodesis
2. Tibial sesamoid dislocation
A. Etiology
1. Staking the head and removing the sagittal groove
2. Overtightening the medial capsule
3. A negative IM angle
3. Capsular defect
4. Staking the head – excessive bone removal on the medial 1st MT head, losing the
plantar tibial sesamoid groove
5. Capital fragment on the floor (Christenson C: Intra operative contamination of the
bone and cartilage during an Austin bunionectomy 31:285, 1992)
A. Mix the following: 1 L normal saline, 1 ml Neosporin GU irrigant and
1:100,000 bacitracin
B. Place fragment in this solution x 5 minutes
C. Transfer to second basin with same solution x 5 minutes
D. Transfer to third basin with same solution x 1 minute
E. 1 gm Cefadyl IV @ 8, 16 and 24 hrs post op (1st generation cephalosporin)
6. Severing the EHL or the FHL 14. AVN
7. Infection 15. Nerve entrapment
8. Breaking the hinge 16. Sesamoiditis
9. Intra-articular osteotomy 17. Hallux limitus
10. Recurrence 18. Fixation failure
11. Delayed or non-union of the osteotomy site
12. 1st met shortening
13. 1st met elevatus
HAV Questions
What are the goals of HAV surgery?
1. The establishment of a congruous 1st MPJ
2. The reduction of the abnormal osseous angles to normal parameters
3. Realignment of the sesamoid bones beneath the 1st metatarsal head – TSP <3
4. Restoration of weight bearing function of the 1st ray
5. Maintenance of the 1st MPJ pain free ROM
6. Repositioning of the hallux in rectus alignment
7. Decreasing ‘the bump’
8. Control or correction of the factors which lead to the deformity
Name the radiographic parameters that are used when evaluating a radiograph for HAV
surgery and give the normal values.
Met adducuts angle normal = 15
1st IM angle normal = 8 – 12
Hallux abductus normal < 15
PASA normal < 7.5
DASA normal < 7.5
HAI normal < 10
Met protrusion distance < 2 mm
Tibial sesamoid position normal 1 – 3
What are the different shapes of the 1st metatarsal head and why are they important?
Round – usually most prone to developing HAV, most reducible yet most the most
unstable
Square – more stable
Square with a ridge – oblique or central ridge, helps prevent lateral deviation of hallux;
compensatory hallux interphalangeus may be seen with this; more commonly associated
with hallux rigidus or limitus; most stable
What are axis guides and how do you orient them to get the desired effect?
K-wire inserted primarily to define the apex and orientation of the osteotomy; most
importantly serves to determine the direction of displacement for the capital fragment in
all three body planes
Distal Osteotomies
Frontal plane: describes the lateral movement of the capital fragment in respect to the
weight-bearing surface
- from medial to lateral the K wire is directed dorsally, the capital fragment will shift
dorsally
- from medial to lateral the K wire is directed plantarly, the capital fragment will shift
plantarly
Transverse osteotomies: dictates lengthening or shortening of the metatarsal with lateral
shifting
- K-wire orientated parallel to the shaft of the 2nd metatarsal, with lateral displacement, the
met will be shortened approximately the width of the saw blade
- K-wire orientated distal medial to proximal lateral, shortens the met
- K-wire orientated proximal medal to distal lateral, lengthens the met
Name the Medial capsulotomies. (VW HULT)
Vertical
H shaped
U shaped
L shaped
T shaped
Lenticular
Washinton Monument
Describe the Washington Monument. (Not the one in Washington, the capsulotomy)
Incision into the capsule medially
Reflect the flap proximally
Close the capsule
Replace the capsule flap
This aids in the correction of hallux valgus
Name all of the Akin procedures & describe them to the best of your ability.
Proximal Akin (Akin, OF: The treatment of hallux valgus: a new operative approach and
its results. Med Sentinel 33:678, 1925.)
Corrects for DASA
Osteotomy performed 5 – 10 mm from the MPJ
Proximal cut is parallel to the base of the proximal phalanx
Distal cut is perpendicular to the bisection of the proximal phalanx
Distal Akin
Corrects for a large hallux interphalangeus angle
Performed 5 – 10 mm from the IPJ of the hallux
Distal cut is parallel to the surface of the head of the proximal phalanx
Proximal cut is perpendicular to the long axis of the shaft
Base medial; apex lateral
Fixation with 28-guage wire, single 0.045 K wire or 0.062 K wire with hinge intact, if
broken, 2 crossed K wires
Cylindrical Akin
Type A – Corrects for long proximal phalanx
Type B – Corrects for a long proximal phalanx and a high DASA and/or HI angle
Proximal cut 1 – 1.5 cm distal to the phalangeal base
Distal cut parallel to first cut or angulated to reduce abductus
Fixation with crossed K-wires (0.045 or 0.062)
Oblique Akin
Indicated for and used to correct an increased hallux interphalangeus angle and an
increased DASA
Leave the hinge intact
The following two procedures are named for where the apex is (proximal vs
distal). The apex of the cut is always lateral.
o Oblique Proximal
Base: medial and distal
Apex: lateral and proximal
o Oblique Distal
Base: proximal and medial
Apex: distal and lateral
Describe the orientation of the osteotomy for a Scarf Z and a reverse (inverted) Z
osteotomy.
For both of these osteotomies, the osteotomy is horizontally directed displacement Z cut
that is performed at the diaphyseal junction level in an upper 2/3rd , lower 1/3rd manner.
The distal apex is placed 1 cm proximal to the articular surface. The horizontal bone cut
is approximately 2.5 – 3.0 cm in length and is angled 5 – 10 degrees in relation to the
transverse plane in a plantar lateral direction.
Scarf Z – Distal cut is dorsal, plantar cut is proximal. Both are angulated 70 – 80 degrees
to the horizontal cut
Reverse Z - Distal cut is plantar, proximal cut is dorsal. Both are angulated 70 – 80
degrees to the horizontal cut
Name as many bunion procedures as you can and categorize them according to
osteotomy placement (i.e. head vs shaft vs base, etc)
1. Phalangeal
Proximal Akin
Distal Akin
Transverse Akin
Proximal Oblique Akin
Distal Oblique Akin
Cylindrical Akin
Sagittal Shortening Z
Keller
2. Capsule tendon balance
Silver
McBride
Adductor tendon transfer
3. Head
Schede
Austin
Traditional
Youngswick
Gerber – Massad (bicorrectional)
Kalish (long dorsal arm)
Logriscino (distal part)
Reverdin
Green
Laird
Todd
4. Neck
- Mitchell
- Hohman
- Peabody
- DRATO
5. Shaft
Scarf
Off-set V
Mau
Ludlow
6. Base
- Loison – Balacescu
- Juvara
- Cresecentic
- Trethowan
- Logriscino (proximal part)
7. 1 met/1 cuneiform
- Lapidus
Why might you want to dorsiflex the hallux when making the initial incisions of an
Austin?
Protects the articular cartilage of the 1st metatarsal head
If you are planning to do a bunion procedure on a person with an already short 1st
metatarsal, name as many procedures as you can that would take this into account and
not shorten the metatarsal more.
Bi-correctional Austin Logriscino
Scarf Z Trethowan
Juvara B2 and C2 Opening wedge of the met or the cuneiform
Loison-Balacescu
Describe the anatomy of the MPJ complex
Starting at the rearfoot, explain in as much detail as possible Root’s theory on the
formation of a bunion. Include all of the stages.
(Root et al. Forefoot deformity caused by abnormal subtalar joint pronation. In Normal
and Abnormal function of the foot. Clinical Biomechanics. Volume 2. Los Angeles. 1977
pg 349 – 462)
According to proper AO principles, explain the two screw placement for a CBWO of the
1st metatarsal.
Proximal screw – anchor screw that is placed perpendicular to the metatarsal
Distal screw – compression screw, placed perpendicular to the shaft of the metatarsal
Etiology:
Long first met or proximal phalanx Neuromuscular disease
Short first met Gout
MPE Osteomyelitis/septic arthritis
Trauma with DJD Charcot neuroarthropathy
Hypermobile 1st ray Neoplasms
Immobile 1st ray Septic arthritis
Neurogenic inflammation Foreign bodies (implants)
Radiographic findings
1. Non uniform joint space narrowing
1. Flattening of the first metatarsal head
2. Osteophytes on the met head and the proximal phalanx (i.e. dorsal flag or sailboat
sign)
3. Subchondral sclerosis (eburnation)
4. Loose bodies within the joint space (joint mice)
5. MPE on the lateral view
a. Proximal phalanx articulates with the plantar aspect of the 1st metatarsal
head
b. Bisection of the first met is superior to the talar bisection (Meary’s angle)
6. Positive 1st met protrusion distance
Stages and Classifications
1. Drago, Oloff and Jacobs 2. Regnauld
a. Functional limitus a. Development
b. Joint adaptation b. Established arthrosis
c. Joint deteriortation c. Ankylosis
d. Ankylosis
Non-Surgical Management
determine whether the deformity is functional or structural hallux limitus.
Functional responds better to orthotic control.
Shoe modifications
o Rocker bottom
o Metatarsal bar
NSAIDs
Orthoses
o First ray cutout
o Heel life
o Kinetic wedge device
Periarticular v intra-articular steroid
ROM exercises
Manipulation and stretching
Physical Therapy
ROM exercises are of the utmost importance and are the most important part of the
post op course for HL/HR.
Ankle Fractures
Oblique fracture: produced with combined loading of compression and torque. Usually a
45 degree fracture orientation. This is considered to be unstable and is usually fixed with
ORIF
Spiral fracture: this is always a type of torque fracture. It usually takes a 360 degree
course with a vertical connecting segment between the two opposing sharp spikes of the
fracture. This is also usually orientated at 45 degrees
Comminuted fracture: this suggests the presence of two or more fracture planes and has
at least three fragments. This is usually due to very high velocity loading, it is a high
energy failure with load concentration over a small area of the bone.
Maisonneuve (1840): The New House fracture. Fracture of the proximal 1/3rd of the
fibula.
LeFort (1886): Described a vertical fracture of the fibula due to SAD type forces.
Chaput – Tillaux (1872): In 1872 Tillaux described a medial deltoid injury or medial
malleolar fracture, a fibular fracture 2 inches proximal to the ankle joint, AND an
anterior lateral tibial tubercle fracture. In 1907, Chaput conducted laboratory studies of
this fracture which is why the fracture of the anterior lateral tibial tubercle contains both
names.
Wagstaffe (1873): Distal fibular fracture due to avulsion of the anterior inferior tibial-
fibular ligament. An SER type injury.
VonVolkman (1875): Originally described as an anterior lateral lip of the fibula fracture
due to avulsion of the anterior tibial-fibular ligament and interosseous membrane due to
PAB type forces. Now: posterior lateral tibial fracture
Cotton (1915): Described a posterior malleolar fracture with a medial malleolar fracture
and a fibular fracture just proximal to the joint level. Trimalleolar fracture.
Correlating Danis-Weber and Lauge-Hansen
2. What is the big difference between a SER type fracture and a PAB type fracture?
SER has a posterior fibular spike while a PAB has a posterior tibial fracture
6. You are called to see a patient in the ER. The ER nurse tells you in a stressed out near
hysterical voice that this patient has a transverse fracture of the fibula and a near
vertical fracture of the medial malleolus. What type of fracture is she describing?
SER 2 or Danis Weber A
7. At what stage of the SER injury, would you see a Wagstaffe fracture?
SER 1
10. Who wrote the original article relating the displacement of the talus in the mortise
and the affect of this displacement on the ankle joint congruity? What did this article
conclude?
Ramsey and Hamilton. JBJS. 1976.
This article concluded that 1 mm of lateral displacement of the talus leads to a 42% reduction in
contact area of the ankle joint. Meaning: reduce your freaking fibular fracture.However, when
doing their cadaveric experiments, they removed all soft tissue from around the ankle joint and
did not allow the talus to compensate for being displaced. More recent studies have indicated that
the talus tends to move back into the mortise when compressed if allowed to do so.
11. What are the radiographic criteria for adequate reduction of displaced ankle fractures?
- no widening of the medial clear space (<4mm) and symmetric joint space on mortise view
- no displacement of malleoli on AP views
- less than 2 mm of posterior displacement of lateral malleolus on lateral films
- no angulations
- fracture of less than 25 – 30% of the posterior malleolus
14. What is the Cotton test and what does it tell you?
- a way to evaluate the syndesmosis for rupture or injury
- after fibular fixation, use a large bone hook to try to laterally distract the fibula from the tibia
while observing the relationship of the two bones
- if > 3 – 4 mm of lateral sift of the talus occurs, significant instability is present and a
syndesmotic screw is recommended
18. Which two classes of Lauge Hansen fractures will most commonly produce posterior
malleolar fractures?
SER and PER
19. What is the best way to assess for a posterior malleolar fracture?
CT or a lateral film (x-ray)
21. What are the names of two approaches to fixate a posterior malleolar fracture?
- Anterior approach through the same incision used to fix the medial mall fractures
- Posterolateral approach of Henry (1945). Incision between the peroneal and Achilles tendons;
avoids damage to the sural nerve and avoids the NV bundle medially. The FHL muscle is used as
a guide to the fragment
25. With which Saltar-Harris fracture pattern in a Juvenile Tillaux fracture associated?
SH 3
34. During her surgery, you attempt to apply a lateral plate and screws to fixate the fracture.
After several attempts, it is deemed that the fixation will not help in her soft bone. What do you
do?
Insert an IM rod (Rush rod) from anterolateral at the distal end of the fibula and proceed
proximally
IM fixation is great in elderly patients; they can weight bear soon with this type of fixation.
Pritchett (Ortho Review June 1993) showed 88% of pts treated with Rush rods had a good or fair
functional result compared with 76% treated with the AO Method. FWB was possible 6 weeks
earlier with Rush rods than with plates and screws. Study was done on pts over 65 y/o.
38. Using Lauge Hansen what is the most common ankle injury?
SAD
39. Using Lauge Hansen, what is the most common ankle fracture?
SER
Pilon Fractures
(As presented by Roy Sanders, MD, 9/21/2000 at Loyola University)
Treatment:
1. Plate the fibula
2. External fixation; wait 10 – 21 days (edema resolution)
3. Fixate the tibia
a. Metaphyseal plate (M-plate; Sanders & Bone)
b. Spider plate
c. Spring plate; spoon plate (6.5 cancellous screws)
d. 1/3 tubular plate hammered flat
Anatomic reduction: a congruous joint is the goal; the only way to achieve a congruous joint is to
ORIF the injury
Recommended text: Planning and Reduction Techniques in Traumatic Fractures
Calcaneal Fractures
What three factors determine the pattern of communition and location of the fracture lines?
1. position of the foot at impact
2. force at impact
3. bone quality
IIa: fracture of the posterior aspect of the calcaneus not involving the Achilles tendon; ‘beak
fracture’
IIb: avulsion fracture of the posterior aspect of the calcaneus
On which imaging modality is the Sanders classification based and what slice is used?
- CT imaging
- Based on the widest section of the sustentaculum tali in 3 mm coronal slices
What plain film views would you order and what would you see on each?
1. Lateral foot: see joint depression; evaluate the two angles in the question above; check
for loss of height of the posterior STJ
2. AP foot: to evaluate all other foot bones for additional fractures/pathology
3. Harris-Beath and/or Broden view: to evaluate the posterior facet of the STJ
4. Lateral oblique: anterior process of the calcaneus to check for CC joint involvement
What are the locations for the incisions of ORIF and the advantages of each?
1. Lateral extensile, Modified Ollier
a. Easy visualization of posterior facet and calcaneocuboid joint
b. Avoids neurovascular bundle
2. Medial
a. Initially popularized by McReynolds
b. Easy reduction of the sustentacular fragment
3. Seligson’s lateral extensile
a. Described by Giouild (F&A, 1984)
Some authors use both approaches so each fragment can be adequately visualized
Many authors also use the lateral approach for which there are many variations.
What is the most frequent post-op complication with ORIF of calcaneal fractures?
Wound dehissance (cited numerous places in the literature)
Note: There seems to be a large discrepancy in outcomes following treatment of intra-articular calcaneal fractures. This
is seen between those injuries suffered while at work and those that are not. Since this injury frequently occurs in the
working population, it is difficult not to include these subjects in studies. Recently, there have been reports alluding to
this idea so hopefully in the future we will see studies on injuries that are not sustained at work.
Flexible Flatfoot Procedures
Transverse plane dominant deformities:
- Evans (bone insertion, lateral calcaneus)
- CCJ distraction arthrodesis (similar to Evans but you fuse the CC joint)
- Kidner (resection of the hypertrophic navicular and accessory bones and reattachment of
the posterior tibial tendon to the navicular)
Rigid Flatfoot
3. Tarsal coalition (see next page)
4. Congential Vertical Talus (treat with serial casting)
Pedal Coalitions
Terminology
Coalition – the union of things separate into single body or group
True coalition – intra-articular fusion of two bones
Bar or Bridge – extra articular fusion of two bones
Etiology
1) Accessory Ossicles
- Os Sustantaculi Proprium
o Can be incorporated into the middle facet
- Os Trigonum
o Can be incorporated into the posterior facet
2) Failure Of Segmentation Of Primitive Mesenchyme
- Autosomal Trait
- Variable Penetrance
ACQUIRED -
- Trauma
- DJD can cause erosion of articular surface
- Inflammatory rheumatoid conditions
- Fractures
- Fusion of accessory bones
Classification by Development
Complete Coalition - two bones joined by osseous union that limits all motion.
Incomplete Coalition - two osseous projections united by intervening fibrous or cartilaginous
tissue.
Rudimentary Coalition - osseous projections from one or more involved bones which limits
motion, without any tissue union between those segments.
Histological Classification
- SYNCHONDROSIS - Cartilaginous
- SYNOSTOSIS - Osseous
- SYNDESMOSIS – Fibrous
Ossification of Coalition
• Talonavicular 3-5 years old
• Calcaneal navicular 8- 12 years old
• Talocalcaneal 12-16 years old
- Age of ossification of coalition corresponds to the onset of symptoms
Clinical Exam
•Peroneal spasm – most common sign of •Pain
involvement •Local tenderness to palpation
•Anterior/posterior tibial spasm •Stiffness/decreased ROM
•Pronation
•Fixed rearfoot valgus
•Very vague complaints of pain
•Cavus deformity
•Either cavus or planus feet
Peroneal “Spastic Flatfoot”
• Restricted Subtalar Motion • Forefoot Abduction
• Rearfoot Valgus – occurs b/c they • “Taught Peroneal Tendons”
are trying to get the FF to the • Ext. Digitorum Brevis Spasm
ground (severe cases
Differential Diagnosis
•Rheumatoid arthritis •CCPV
•Trauma – needs to be R/O especially in •Peroneal muscle contracture
kids • 2 TO Localized ISCHEMIA which
•Acromegaly can be caused by decreased padding
•Extra articular arthrodesis in BK case
•Overcorrected clubfoot •Neuromuscular disease
•Osteochondral defect
•Infection
•Neoplasm
•Juvenile RA – very rare
Coalition Incidence View Associated Signs Trivia/Other
Interphalangeal Common AP May be
synphalangism
Calcaneonavicular Common Lateral oblique Ant-eater Sign Long snouted anterior process of
Lateral calcaneus
Ratty radiolucency and irregular
sclerosis fibrous union
Flare
Lack of differentiation of lateral
process
Os trigonum? (has a role)
Specialized Plain Film Studies
• Harris & Beath:
• identifies posterior/middle facets of STJ
• Isherwood:
• oblique lateral-anterior facet STJ
• Broden:
• medial oblique posterior STJ
• Lateral oblique:
• anterior facet
• X-ray positioning: Podiatry Today, Sept. 1989 (Baron & Strugielski)
Computed Tomography
• Modality of choice for the assessment of
coalitions
• Planar analysis
• Extent of coalition
• Assess subtle cortical changes in
surrounding osseous structures
• Picture: bilateral coalitions
• One side fibrous
• One side bony
Nuclear Imaging
Technetium bones scans will assist in identification of “maturing coalitions”
- see uptake on adjacent aspects of the involved bones
- lack of uptake in region of “mature” coalition
MR Imaging
• Planar analysis
• Identification of tissue matrix (may be better than a CT)
• Loss of fluid signal intensity in area of coalition on T-2 weighted images
Associated Syndromes
- Isolated fusions usually occur between bones of the same row (distal to proximal),
those associated with other abnormalities occur across rows (medial to lateral).
• Distal to proximal: isolated fusions
• Medial to lateral: associated with other abnormalities
- Cuneiform involvement points to possible associated syndrome.
• Apert’s syndrome
• Nievergelt-Pearlman syndrome
Apert’s Syndrome
• Massive tarsal synostosis –
• one big block of bones
• Craniosynostosis –
• born with normal mentation,
• premature closure of the cranial bones mental
deficiency.
• Midfacial hypoplasia –
• mouse facies,
• think mickey mouse bones close early
decrease in size
• Broad distal phalanx of thumb and hallux
• Adaptive changes seen at the ankle joint
• Sagittal plane disorganization
• Same pt in the picture as in the radiographs
• Use palliative care
• Surgical intervention: less surgery = better
Treatment:
- Immobilization
- Supportive therapy
- Orthotic therapy (pronated devices?)
- NSAIDs
- Surgical Intervention (resection v fusion)
Cavus Deformity
Classification Systems
The classification systems for pes cavus are many, and often times confusing.
Ruch Classification
Stage I: Deformity primarily restricted to the metatarsals, MPJ’s, or digits. Surgical
management includes digital fusions, MPJ release, extensor tendon tenotomies, or flexor
transfers.
Stage II: Deformity primarily consists of a rigid PF first ray and RF varus. Surgical
management included a DFWO, Dwyer, STATT, or Peroneal Stop.
Stage III: A severe global RF and FF deformity of probable N/M etiology. Surgical
management includes midtarsal osteotomies, triple arthrodesis, and tendon transfers.
Other systems take into account combined sagittal / transverse plane or sagittal / frontal
plane deformities, making the cavus foot even more perplexing.
Biggest question: IS IT NEUROMUSCULAR DZ?????
What are the goals of tendon transfers in patients with drop foot?
1. Pt should be able to clear the foot during gait
2. Muscle transferred should be in phase with paralytic muscle
3. Transferred tendon should be in line with the muscle and should not undergo angulation
Bridle Procedure: done for anterolateral paralysis resulting in foot drop. The PL tendon and the
TA tendon are anchored to the PTT which is transferred to the anterior side of the ankle.
After injury to the common peroneal nerve, equinovarus develops because of the unopposed pull
to the PT tendon:
- Transfer of the PT tendon will restore DF to the foot and remove some of the deforming
force of the tendon
- Transfer is indicated to correct a foot drop with equinovarus deformity (transfer of the PT
tendon through the interosseous membrane and insert it into the 3rd cuneiform)
In paralysis of all lower leg muscles patients usually require some type of brace
- It is possible to use the flaccid tendons to create a tenodesis for the foot and to minimize
brace use (used for patients who want to be brace free)
- Tenodesis of the extensor tendons and anchor them to the tibia; this will keep them in 10
degrees of dorsiflexion
Paralysis of the tibial nerve usually results in a calcaneus deformity when the anterior leg muscles
are preserved.
- Over time with paralysis of the Achilles tendon and functioning dorsiflexors, the
calcaneus will assume a vertical position as the intrinsic muscles of the foot continue to
contract leading to a cavus deformity
- There will be a marked increase in the pitch of the calcaneus, thickening of the plantar
heel pad, dorsiflexion of the midfoot and slight flexion of the forefoot as a result of
contraction of the plantar fascia.
- Tendon transfer is difficult because no tendon has the strength to oppose the calf
musculature
- Arthrodesis (triple, tibiotalocalcaneal or pantalar) is usually performed
Surgical Options – Soft Tissue Procedures
5. Girdlestone-Taylor transfer
a. Transfer of the FDL tendons to the dorsal aspect of the digits
b. Done for treatment of claw toes
c. Usually done in conjunction with an arthroplasty
6. Heyman Procedure
a. Transfer of all five long extensors to the respective metatarsal heads
7. Split Tibialis Anterior Tendon Transfer (STATT)
a. Indicated for flexible cavus deformity
b. The lateral half of the TA tendon is sectioned and
anastamosed to the peroneus tertius near its
insertion
8. Peroneal Anastamosis
a. Transfer of PL to PB
b. May be done in CMT when the PB function is diminished but the PL function is
normal
9. Peroneus longus tendon transfer
a. PL tendon is sectioned near the cuboid and the tendon is then re-routed down the
EDL tendon sheath and inserted into the lesser tarsal area
b. If split, the medial half is anastamosed to the TA tendon and lateral half is
anastamosed to the peroneus tertius tendon near their insertions
2. Cole osteotomy
a. Dorsally based closing wedge
b. Proximal cut is made through the navicular and the
cuboid
c. Distal cut is made through the cuneiforms and the
cuboid
3. Japas osteotomy
a. V shaped osteotomy with the apex at the middle cuneiform and
the medial border just proximal to the 1st MC joint and lateral
border proximal to the cuboid 5th metatarsal joint
b. The distal section is raised and the proximal portion is lowered
5. McElvenny-Caldwell Procedure
a. Arthrodesis of the 1st MT – CN joint
b. Procedure done after a serious of plaster casting with the heel in valgus and
forefoot in supination
Note: If an arthrodesis is performed, a tendon transfer to balance out the deformity should also be
done. This is a progressive deformity and the fusion will deteriorate faster if a tendon transfer
isn’t performed.
Refsum’s Disease
- progressive paresis of the distal aspects of the extremities
- drop foot, pes cavus, decreased DTR, ataxia, night blindness
- first symptom: night blindness
- autosomal recessive
- metabolic neuropathy caused by a disturbance of lipid metabolism which leads to an
accumulation of phytanic acid
- waxes and wanes
Friedrich’s Ataxia
- pes cavus and drop foot deformity
- more severe than CMT
- by age 30 pts are incapacitated
- degeneration of the post and caudal regions of spinal cord of unknown etiology
- instability and ataxia due to cerebellar involvement
- scoliosis and kyphoscoliosis are common
- peroneal nerve weakness will occur followed by ulnar nerve weakness
- glove and stocking distribution of decreased sensation
- Trendelenburg gait or lurching due to weakness of gluteus medius
Cerebrovascular Accidents
- Condition is static and non-progressive
- Surgical repair is very helpful
- An UMN disease
- Contractures of unopposed muscle groups is common
- Foot deformities such as equinovarus, claw-toes, spastic equinus and drop foot
- Bracing is part of treatment for joint imbalances
- Pt are usually on anti-coagulant therapy
Muscular Dystrophy
- Group of disorders were muscle tissue dies or becomes dystrophic
- Ankle equinus and equinovarus are common
- Duchenne’s
• The most severe
• Sex linked disease that tends to affect males
• Protein dystrophin is not produced
• Pseudohypertrophy is seen as fatty deposits in the muscle; often seen in the calf
• Goal of treatment: maintain ambulatory status of patient for as long as possible
• Gower’s sign is seen
- Becker’s
• More benign
• Abnormal dystrophin
Myelodysplasia
Spina Bifida:
- group of disorders that have a congenital manifestation of the spine
- incomplete closure of the midline of the osseous, mesenchymal and ueral tissues
- most often in the lumbar or sacral area
- results in dynamic imbalance in the muscles of the lower extremity
- progressive disorder
- commonly a pes cavus develops but equinus, equinovarus and pes valgus are possible
- many times these patients have a paralyzed bladder so catheterization is required during
surgery
Spina Bifida Occulta:
- isolated defect of the fusion of the posterior vertebral arch without disruption of the
underlying neural tissue
- many time asymptomatic
- most common in posterior arches of L5 and S1 leading to a cavus foot
- derm markers:
- hairy tuft, dimple or teratoma (lipoma) of skin of lower back. These lesions may grow
and compress cord
- Etiology: genetic, environment, unknown
- Hydrocephalus is common; shunts are used for treatment
- Adhesions may cause symptoms as child grows:
• The attachment of the spinal cord to the meningocele sac and the skin prevents
normal cephalad migreation of the spinal cord with growth. This produces the so
called tethered cord. Even after surgical release from the spinal cord, reattachement
of the cord is likely during the healing process. As the child grows, the spinal cord is
stretched, causing increasing neurological damage.
- Sensory and proprioception abnormalities may be worse than motor abnormalities
• The posterior aspect of the cord is exposed
• Posterior section of the cord is responsible for sensory and proprioceptive function
whereas the anterior part of the cord is involved in motor function
Poliomyelitis
- not very common today
- viral infection of the anterior horn cells
- paralysis of the muscles are involved; may be partial depending on the many cells or
sequential portion of the cord is damaged
- Tibialis anterior which is innervated by a short column of anterior horn cells is more
vulnverable to complete paralysis
- Paralysis is asymmetrical
- Most common cause of posterior cavus (due to loss of Achilles tendon function)
- Acute stage:
• Fever, myositis, paralysis
• Muscles are tender
• Pt will contract and shorten the muscle to relieve pain and if held in that position then
permanent contracture may remain
- Subacute or convalescent stage:
• Improvement of symptoms
• Aggressive physical therapy should be initiated
- Chronic Stage
• Period of stability
• Surgical intervention can be attempted
• Non-progressive once in this stage
Cerebral Palsy
- congenital neuromuscular disease caused by brain lesion
- lesions may be formed before, during or after birth
- common causes:
• maldevelopment of the brain
• cerebral anoxia during the prenatal period
• trauma during birth
• erythroblastosis secondary to Rh incompatability
• neonatal encephalitis
• prematurity
- non progressive syndrome but muscle imbalances may progress over time
- types
• spastic (65%)
• responds well to surgical repair of the deformities
• muscles that cross more than one joint are often infected
• the muscles of flexion, adduction and internal rotation tend to overpower those
muscles of extension, abduction and external rotation
• scissor gait is seen
• TEV commonly develops
• Other foot deformities such as talipes calcaneus, pes cavus, hallux valgus and
hammer toe deformities
• Athetoid (20%)
• Other (15%)
Questions about Lis Franc Injuries
How do you assess Lis Franc’s joint radiographically?
AP: Medial border of the 2nd metatarsal base should be aligned with the medial border
of the middle cuneiform
30 degree lateral oblique: Medial border of the 4th metatarsal base should be aligned
with the medial border of the cuboid
Lateral: Dorsal border of the 2nd metatarsal base should be aligned with the middle
cuneiform base
Desmond, FAI, 2006.
Myerson, Foot & Ankle, 1986.
What are principles to reduction that are specific to lis franc’s complex?
►Key to reduction: 2nd metatarsal
►Step 1: Medial column
►Step 2: Lis Franc ligament complex
►Step 3: Lateral rays
From: Kelkikian. Operative Treatment of the Foot and Ankle. 1998.
If you take a lis franc injury to the OR, what are your fixation options?
►Closed reduction, cast immobilization
►PerQ fixation with K-wires only
►PerQ fixation with K-wires 4 – 5; ORIF of 1-3 PRN
►ORIF (no K-wires) with screws
►ORIF with plates
►External fixation
►Partial arthrodesis
►Full arthrodesis
What are some of the major complications associated with this injury?
DJD
CRPS
Compartment syndrome
Cuboid syndrome
Additional surgery/fusion
Some good references for Lis Franc fracture/dislocations….
► Aitken AP, Poulson D. Dislocations of the Tarsometatarsal Joint. JBJS. 1963, Vol 45-A;
Mar(2):246-383
► Chandran P, Puttaswamaiah R, Dhillon MS, Gill SS. Management of Complex Open Fracture Injuries
of the Midfoot with External Fixation. JFAS. 2006, Vol 45; Sep/Oct (5):308-15
► Chang T. Master Techniques in Podiatric Surgery: The Foot and Ankle. Lippincott, Williams and
Wilkins, Philadelphia, PA. 2005:189-210
► Desmond EA, Chou, LB. Current Concepts Review: Lisfranc Injuries. Foot and Ankle. 2006,Vol
26;Aug(8):653-60
► Ebraheim NA, Haman SP, Lu J, Padanilam TG. Radiographic Evaluation of the Calcaneocuboid
Joint: A Cadaveric study. FAI. 1999, Vol 20; Mar(3):178-81
► English TA. Dislocations of the Metatarsal Bone and Adjacent Toe. JBJS. 1964, Vol 46-B;
Nov(4):700-4
► Gissane W. A Dangerous Type of Fracture of the Foot. JBJS. 1951, Vol 33-B; Nov(4): 535-8
► Hardcastle PH, Reschauer R, Kutscha-Lissberg E, Schoffmann W. Injuries to the Tarsometatarsal
Joint. JBJS. 1982, Vol 64-B, Jun(3):349-56
► Kelkikian AS. Operative Treatment of the Foot and Ankle. The McGraw-Hill Companies. 1998:455-
79.
► Kuo RS, Tejwani NC, DiGiovanni CW, Holt KS, Benirschke SK, Hansen ST, Sangeorzan BJ.
Outcome After Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of Lisfranc Joint Injuries. JBJS. 2000, Vol82-
A; Nov(11):1609-18
► Lin SS, Bono CM, Treuting R, Shereff MJ. Limited Intertarsal Arthrodesis Using Bone Grafting and
Pin Fixation. Foot Ankle. 2000, Vol 21; Sep(9):742-8
► Ly TV, Coetzee JC. Treatment of Primarily Ligamentous Lisfranc Joint Injuries: Primary Arthrodesis
Compared with Open Reduction and Internal Fixation, a Prospective Randomized Study. JBJS.
2006, Vol 88-A; March(3):514-20
► Mulier T, Reynders P, Dereymaeker G, Broos P. Severe Lisfranc Injuries: Primary Arthrodesis or
ORIF? Foot and Ankle. 2002,Vol 23; Oct(10):902-5
► Myerson MS, Fisher RT, Burgess AR, Kenzora JE. Fracture Dislocations of the Tarsometatarsal
Joints: End Results Correlated with Pathology and Treatment. Foot Ankle. 1986, Vol 6; Apr(5):225-
42
► Peicha G, Labovitz J, Seibert FJ. The Anatomy of the Joint as a Risk Factor for Lisfranc Dislocation
and Fracture-Dislocation. An Anatomical and Radiological Case Control Study. JBJS. 2002, Vol 84-
B; Sep(7):981-5
► Richter M, Wippermann B, Krettek C, Schratt HE, Hufner T, Thermann H. Fractures and Fracture
Dislocations of the Midfoot: Occurance, Causes and Long-term Results. Foot Ankle. 2001, Vol 22;
May(5):392-8
► Saxena A. Bioabsorbable Screws for Reduction of Lisfranc’s Diastasis in Athletes. JFAS. 2005, Vol
44; Nov/Dec(6):445-9
► Thompson MC, Mormino MA. Injury to the Tarsometatarsal Joint Complex. J Am Acad of Orthop
Surg. 2003, Vol 11; Jul/Aug(4):260-7
► Zgonis T, Roukis TS, Polyzois VD. Lisfranc Fracture-Dislocation: Current Treatment and New
Surgical Approaches. Clin Podiatr Med Surg. 2006, Vol 23; Apr(2):303-22
Case Study
CC: 22 y/o woman presents to our office c/o left ankle pain
HPI: Hurt it at track practice 2 days ago; trainer iced the ankle and applied ACE wrap and
told me to use crutches; was pushing off for a spring and it felt like someone kicked me
in the back of the leg; stabbing pain; didn’t do my usual stretching and was late for
practice.
Allergies: none
Social Hx: student at the local university; scholarship track team – sprinter; denies EtOH,
tobacco and drug use
ROS: unremarkable
Physical Exam:
Integ: diffuse ecchymosis posterior calcaneus, left
Vasc: palpable pedal pulses bilaterally; diffuse edema surrounding left ankle
Neuro: intact bilaterally
M/S: unable to do single leg toe raise on the left size. + Thompson test, left. + Knee
flexion test
Thompson-Doughtery Test
Positive – patient prone, no plantarflexion while the calf is being squeezed
Differential Diagnosis
Rupture of the Achilles tendon
Partial rupture of gastrocnemius muscle
Avulsion fracture of calcaneus (Rowe IIB)
Radiographs:
Increased soft tissue density and volume obliterating Kaeger’s triangle
No fractures, dislocations or foreign bodies noted.
MR:
T1: Disruption of signal within the tendon
T2: Generalized increase in signal intensity with edema and hemorrhage at the site of the
rupture with an area of high signal intensity
d. Modified Bunnell
g. V-Y Graftoplasty
i. Bosworth
Normal Achilles tendons do not rupture – 98% of the time a degenerative process
preludes a rupture (i.e. fibrosis, peritendonitis or chronic tendonitis)
Anatomically – 3 distinct areas of concern:
- myotendinous origin: 4 – 14% of ruptures
- tendon: 72 – 73% of ruptures
- osseous insertion – 14 – 24% of ruptures
2. What are the two general types of the 5th MTB fractures?
- avulsion fracture of variable sizes
- Fracture of the metaphyseal – diaphyseal junction
There is also the diaphyseal stress fracture that is sometimes included in this list, though
it doesn’t occur in the base region.
3. What was Sir Robert Jones doing when he injured himself and subsequently described
the fracture associated with his name?
- 1902. Dancing around a tent pole at the military garden party in 1896.
- He described a transverse fracture of the 5th metatarsal that did not heal quickly.
4. What is the suggested treatment for non-displaced avulsion fractures of the 5th MTB?
- Heal sufficiently when immobilized in a cast or supported with elastic wrap. 3 – 4
weeks
- Delayed and non-union are rare complications and in the event that satisfactory bony
healing does not occur, most patients will remain asymptomatic because of fibrous tissue
bridging across the defect.
5. Name three structures that insert into the 5th MTB from proximal to distal.
- lateral cord of the plantar aponeurosis
- peroneus brevis
- peroneus tertius
What are three ways that you can fixate a displaced avulsion fracture?
- K-wires
- Screws
- Tension band wire
Case Study
HPI: 45 y/o WF is seen at bedside at AM rounds. Pt complains that she feels lousy and
had a difficult time sleeping last night. Pt is 2 days s/p triple arthrodesis of the right foot
for severe acquired flatfoot. Pt denies F/V/CP/SOB and states that she feels cold and
lousy.
PE:
Vitals: Ht 62 inches; Wt 168 lbs; T 101.1; P: 92; R 24; BP 185/90
Integ: upon removal of the cast, medial and lateral incisions appear intact with some
tension noted; suture intact; some periwound erythema and edema; right calf appears
swollen compared to the left.
Vasc: Non-palpable, right due to edema. Palpable pedal pulses, left.
Neuro: decreased to SWM b/l
M/S: pain to palpation of the right posterior calf
What do you have to rule out at this point? And how do you rule it out?
1. Atelectasis – chest x-ray
2. UTI – UA with cultures
3. DVT – venous duplex doppler
4. Wound infection – clinical correlation
5. Drug fever
What are the five causes of post – op fever and what is the time period in which they
occur?
Wind: 12 hours
Water: 24 hours
Walking: 12 – 48 hours
Wound: 2 – 4 days
Wonder Drug: anytime
Results:
1. Chest x-ray is negative; pt has been using the incentive spirometer once every
hour for five minutes; pt does not complain of shortness of breath or chest pain
2. UA results are the following
pH: 6.5 color: straw
specific gravity: wnl WBC 2/field
bacteria: 0 nitrities: negative
Leukocyte esterase: negative
3. Duplex Doppler was positive for actute DVT in the posterior tibial vein of the
right leg
4. No work up needed because no wound infection suspected. Normal post op
changes to the peri-wound areas.
Treatment:
- Pt started on 15,000 u bolus of heparin IV
- Pt given 1400 u heparin IV/hr
- PTT was checked four hours after initiation of therapy and found to be 46 sec
(normal = 25 – 35s)
- Pt was given a bolus of 3000i IVP and 1452u/hr
- PTT was checked again four hours after adjustment of therapy: 75 sec (you want
the PTT to be 70 – 95here)
- Pt was started on 10 mg of coumadin 24 h after initial diagnosis of DVT; pt was
give 10 mg of coumadin the next day
- PT was taken and INR was found to be 2.5 (you want it between 2 and 3)
- Heparin was continued for five days after coumadin was started
- Coumadin was continued for 3 months
Case Study
HPI: 24 yr old WM presents to the ER c/o a thigh cast on his right leg. Pt had a haglund’s
deformity removed 3 days prior. Pt states that the pain woke him up last night and has
been present every since. Pt took two Tylenol #3 which didn’t help.
PMH: unremarkable
Medications: none
Allergies: none
SHx: denies tobacco, drugs; social EtOH
ROS: unremarkable
PE:
Vitals: Ht 68 inches; Wt 215 lbs; VSS; afebrile
Integ: R leg warm, slight erythema, diameter in center of calf is 3 cm > L calf; incision
intact, no soi
NV: intact
MS: unremarkable
A/P:
R/O DVT
Duplex Doppler was positive for DVT in the right calf
Pt admitted to hospital and began anti-coagulant therapy
DVT Related Questions
1. What is virchow’s triad?
- states of hypercoaguability
- venous stasis
- damage to the endothelial lining in the blood vessel
Diagnostic Tests:
1. Non-invasive
a. Duplex Doppler: lack of venous compression indicates DVT
i. Can have color flow imaging to enhance sensitivity
ii. Allows to determine direction of blood flow and the amount of reduction in
lumen diameter
iii. Good for symptomatic DVT
iv. Grady-Bensmetal JBJS, 1994: duplex ultrasound has the positive predictive
value of 7/9
v. Ciccone et al JBJS 1998: duplex ultrasound with color flow imaging is
unreliable in detecting asymptomatic DVT post THR/TKR
b. Impedence plethysmography
2. Invasive
a. Contrast venography
i. Gold standard for detecting DVT
ii. Not as reliable in detecting recurrent DVT
iii. Has been known to cause PE during testing
iv. New contrast media has decreased this risk
5. How do you diagnose a PE?
Clinically: sudden onset of chest pain, dyspnea, hemoptysis, tachycardia
Pt may be febrile, hypotensive and cyantic
Diagnosis:
1. Blood gasses: PaO2 < 80 mmHg
2. Chest x-ray: 50% are normal; a normal or near normal chest x-ray in a dyspneic
patient suggests PTE. Well – established abnormalities include focal oligemia
(Westermark’s sign), a peripheral wedged shaped density above the diaphragm
(Hampton’s hump) or an enlarged right descending pulmonary artery.
3. Ventilation – Perfusion Scan (V/Q Scan)
a. A mismatch demonstrating an area of ventilation but no perfusion suggests
PE
b. Ventilation: inhalation of xenon 133
c. Perfusion: T99 labeled albumin
d. V/Q mismatch: acute PE, previous PE, centrally located cancer, radiation
therapy
4. Pulmonary angiography
a. Definitive test
b. Indicated if V/Q scan is inconclusive
c. Diagnostic signs: intraluminal filling defect, abrupt vessel cutoff, loss of
side branches
6. Prophylaxis
a. Non-pharmacologic
- compression stockings
- intermittent compression pumps
1. increases levels of prostacyclin and fibrinolytic byproducts
2. prevents stasis due to increased venous return
b. Heparin
- 5000u SQ q2h pre-op
- 5000u SQ q8-12h
7. Treatment
a. Heparin IV
- loading dose: 10,000 – 15,000u or 80u/kg
- maintenance dose: start with 1,000 u/hr (18u/kg/hr)
- adjust according to PTT (goal 57 – 90 seconds)
- protamine sulfate reversed heparin
- 1 mg protamine pre 100 u heparin
- use with care in pts on NPH insulin
- complications: hemorrhage, thrombocytopenia, ostoporosis with long term use
b. Coumadin
- start after heparin is therapeutic
- commonly 2.5 mg qd
- adjust according to PT (1 – 1.15 x normal/INR 2 – 3)
PT normal = 11 – 13 INR normal 0.8 – 1.2
- vitamin K reversal
c. LMWH
- Safer than regular heparin
- no need to monitor PTT, easier dosing
i. Lovenox
Theraputic: 30 mg SQ BID
Prophylatic: 1 mg/kg
ii. Fragmin
2500 u SQ qd
iii. Normiflo
5000 u – 10000 u SQ BID
Compartment syndrome has been implicated with their use (McLaughlin et al
JBJS 1998)
d. Thrombolytic therapy
- urokinase, streptokinase to dissolve clot
- must be initiated within 24 – 48 hours
e. Surgical therapy
1. venous interruption operation
- Greenfield filter: placed in IVC below renal veins
2. Pulmonary embolectomy
9. Pt has a DVT in his lower extremity. Clots are thrown and pt is found dead at home.
Upon autopsy pt is found not to have died from a pulmonary embolism but from a
massive CVA. How is this possible?
Pt had an undiagnosed patent foramen ovale. This is called a paradoxical embolism.
HPI: 34 y/o healthy female s/p bunionectomy x 18 months presents to your office c/p
pain, stiffness and swelling at the base of the left big toe joint. The symptoms began
gradually approximately 6 months ago. Her condition has gradually worsened and now
her big toe joint is almost as painful as it was pre-op. Symptoms are triggered
predominately by weight-bearing. She has been treated with anti-inflammatory
medication and rest by the physical that performed the surgery. This provides temporary
relief of her symptoms.
Allergies: NKDA
Meds: Claritin
ROS: Non-contributory
Physical Exam
INT: warmth and erythema noted at the 1st MPJ
NEURO: intact
M/S: pain on palpation of the 1st MPJ, pain on passive and active ROM, decreased 1st
MPJ ROM (approximately 15 degrees)
If not evident on plain films, what other imaging modality can be used to detect AVN and
how does it appear?
MR imaging. Since most bone infarct occur in fatty tissue, MR imaging is very useful.
Decreased signal intensity within medullary bone would be noticed in T1 and T2 weighted
images. More sensitive and has better resolution than a bone scan.
How do you treat AVN?
This is a self limiting process. We are trying to prevent residual deformity.
Conservative Treatment:
- NSAIDs
- Orthotics
- Analgesics
- Protected/off weightbearing (casting, bracing, padding)
Surgical Treatment:
- arthrodesis
How do you reduce the incidence of AVN when performing a first metatarsal osteotomy?
- rigid fixation
- minimal dissection
- minimal lateral release
Clinical Presentation
- Patients usually present immediately due to pain and the inability to bear weight.
- The puncture wound penetration site usually exhibits signs of acute injury: localized erythema and
edema
- If a patient delays in seeking medical care, infection may already be established in the wound.
- When a foreign body is retained in the puncture wound, infection can manifest in 24 hours but
may have a delayed presentation of 3 to 4 days
Clinical Evaluation
- Thorough history (time of injury, type of shoe, environment and a good description of the
penetrating object. It is also important to find out if the patient has attempted to remove the
object.)
- Patient’s tetanus status must be ascertained and appropriately addressed (see tetanus prophylaxis)
- Determining the location and depth of the wound is important
- It must be determined if the wound was close to a joint, tendon, or any other NV structure
(Patzakis, et al – Classification system)
- Determining the depth of the puncture is essential because extension of the puncture wound to
deeper structures may cause penetration of structures such as the intrinsic and extrinsic tendons,
intermetatarsal bursae or joint capsules. These structures are less vascular and have a lower
metabolic rate, allowing infectious organisms the opportunity to replicate and the infection to be
established. Nerve damage should be evaluated by testing distal sensation. Tendons should be
evaluated as well.
- Inspect the borders of the wound. Jagged, irregular borders have an increased potential for
infection due to decreased vascular perfusion of the apices.
Radiographic Evaluation
- Plain films should always be obtained to determine if any object has been retained or to see if any
osseous structures have been involved.
- A retained foreign body can be a nidus for infection
- Can glass be seen on plain films? The size of the piece is the limiting factor
- Plain film may be inadequate to show small pieces of glass, wood, plastic or material from socks
and shoes
- Xeroradiography, ultrasound, CT or MR may also be used.
- CT is good to visualize wood in deep tissues
- Ultrasound is good to detect non-radio-opaque bodies. May be useful when the puncture wound is
near a vessel
- Plain film, CT, MR, and radionuclide imaging also can be used to detect osteomyelitis
Wound Microbiology
- Most common gram positives responsible for soft tissue infections:
• S aureus
• S epidermidis
• Streptococcus
- Most common gram negatives responsible for soft tissue infections:
• E coli
• Proteus
• Klebsiella
- Pasteurella multocida in dog/cat bites
- Pseudomonas aeruginosa is the most common organism isolated in osteomyelitis following
puncture wounds (especially in gym shoes). This is well documented.
- Patients without systemic illnesses usually have one pathologic organism
- Patients with systemic illnesses usually have more than one pathologic organism
Treatment
- The goal of treating puncture wounds is to convert a contaminated or dirty wound into a clean
wound.
- Begin by cleansing the wound with sterile saline. If local anesthetic is needed, perform the block
proximal to the wound. You do not want to spread the soft tissues around the wound.
- The wound should be explored with a blunt sterile probe. Wounds extending beyond the deep
fascia must be treated aggressively to present deep abscess formation and possible osteomyelitis.
- Incision and drainage are required in all deep, contaminated or infected wounds. Once aggressive
debridement is completed, the wound should then be irrigated, preferably with pressure irrigation.
Deep wound cultures then are taken by removing deep tissue samples and sending them for culture
and sensitivity. The wound should be packed open or closed over a drain to prevent hematoma or
establishment of an anaerobic infection. Intraoperative radiographic techniques may be utilized,
such as triangulation or a metal grid system.
Antibiotics
- Controversial issue
- If the wound has not penetrated the plantar fascia and is clear of any foreign matter or necrotic
tissues, then observation without antibiotics is sufficient
- If the wound has penetrated deep through the plantar fascia, the likelihood of contamination may
necessitate the use of prophylactic antibiotics
- When puncture wound occurs in a shoe, the antibiotic must cover pseudomonas aeruginosa.
• Recommend:
• oral fluoroquinolones, such as cipro
- Late puncture wounds with abscess formation or ascending cellulitis must be treated with IV
antibiotics.
• Recommend:
• anti-pseudomonal penicillin class, such as ticracillin and pipercillin;
• third generation cephalosporins, such as cefoperazone and ceftazidine;
• aminoglycosides with clindamycin
- Wound causing osteomyelitis must receive IV antibiotics x 6 weeks
Wound Contamination
Clean – No frank contamination. No break in aseptic technique. Most surgical wounds
When determining what to give in regards to tetanus, there are three things to look at:
1. Immunization status
2. Timing of the patient’s last booster
3. Wound and wound treatment
4.
Taken from: Brooks JW. Management of Pedal Puncture Wounds. JFAS 1994. 33(5):463 – 466.
Immunization Booster Status Wound Tetanus
Status
Completed Within the last year None
Completed in the None .5 ml toxoid (Td)
previous 10 years
Completed more Within the previous .5 ml Td
than 10 years 10 years
previously
Completed more None within the Minor wound .5 ml Td
than 10 years previous 10 years Relatively clean
previously Treated promptly
and adequately
Completed more No booster in the Something other .5 ml Td
than 10 years previous 5 years than minor wound 250 units tetanus
previously Not clean immune globulin
Not treated 500 units TIG if
promptly wound is clostridia-
prone
No record or hx of No record of booster Minor wound .5 ml Td
immunization Clean wound 2nd injection 4 – 6
Treated promptly weeks later
and adequately 3rd injection 6 – 12
months after second
No record or hx of No record of booster Wound not clean, 250 units of TID
immunization not minor and not (500 units TID if
treated promptly or claustridium prone)
adequately w/above Td sequence
Hallux Varus
Classification:
1. Congenital hallux varus (Tachdjian, 1982/1985)
a. Primary: isolated deformity where a taught medial band of tissue extends
from the medial side of the great toe to the base of the first metatarsal
b. Secondary: associated with other congenital deformities: metatarsus varus
and broadening and shortening of the first metatarsal.
c. Tertiary: associated with developmental afflictions of the skeleton, i.e.
diastrophic dwarfism
2. Acquired hallux varus
a. Static: muscle balance undisturbed (i.e. met osteotomy)
b. Dynamic: muscle imbalance (i.e. adductor transfer of the McBride type)
Etiology
1. Excessive resection of medial eminence with disruption of the sagittal groove
2. Plantar lateral release
3. Excessive tightening of the medial capsular structures
4. Osseous over correction
5. Aggressive post operative bandaging or splinting
6. Excision of the fibular sesamoid
7. Muscle imbalance caused by previous HAV correction
Relevant History:
1. HAV surgery
Symptoms
1. Unable to wear conventional shoe gear
2. Pain present at medial aspect of hallux secondary to shoe pressure
3. Pain along the medial aspect of the arch secondary to muscle contracture
4. Pain at the first MPJ with or without shoe gear.
1. Skin incision – If the skin incision is contributing to the deformity, scar revision (e.g.
Z-plasty) instead of reincision should be performed.
2. Soft tissue dissection will be more difficult and requires precise establishment of
tissue planes.
3. Release all soft tissue from the joint – will help to determine of the deformity is
positional, structural or both.
4. Release the medial capsule. V shaped capsulotomy is ideal for this.
5. Tenotomize the abductor hallucis tendon if it is contributing to the deformity.
6. Evaluate the IM angle and the PASA at this point.
7. Choose osseous procedure based on which procedure was performed before, length of
the 1st metatarsal and the amount of correction needed.
8. If the tibial sesamoid is dislocated, relocation should be attempted. If this fails, remove
the sesamoid and fuse the HIPJ.
Taken from: Zahari & Girolamo. Hallux varus: a step-wise approach for correction. JFAS, 1991. 30(3):264
– 266.
Questions about Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
1. What are the contents of the tarsal tunnel?
- Tibialis posterior tendon
- Posterior tibial artery
- Posterior tibial nerve
- Posterior tibial companion veins
- Flexor digitorum longus
- Flexor hallucis longus
2. Name some of the specific nerves that can be affected by tarsal tunnel syndrome.
- Medial plantar nerve
- Lateral plantar nerve
- Nerve to the abductor digiti minimi (Baxter’s nerve)
- 1st branch of the lateral plantar nerve
5. What are the borders in all directions as the tibial nerve courses under the flexor
retinaculum?
- superficially: the flexor retinaculum
- deep: the medial side of the talus, sustentaculum tali, medial side of the calcaneus
- superiorly: the deep aponeurotic fascia of the leg
- inferiorly: the abductor hallucis muscle
11. Name some causes of anterior tarsal tunnel syndrome excluding those mentioned
before.
- tight laced shoe gear
- osteophytes at the ankle or talonavicular joint
- pt with cavus feet
12. Why is that the symptoms in a patient with anterior tarsal tunnel syndrome are
accentuated during sleep?
- foot drops into plantarflexion during sleep
Anatomy
Anterior talofibular ligament
a. Intracapsular
b. Origin: distal anterior fibula
c. Insertion: body of the talus – anterior to articular facet
Calcaneofibular ligament
d. Extracapsular
i. Confluent with peroneal tendon sheath
e. Origin: anterior border of distal malleolus below the origin of the ATFL
f. Insertion: lateral body of the calcaneus superior to peroneal tubercle
Posterior talofibular ligament
g. Intracapsular
h. Origin: medial surface of lateral mallelous
i. Insertion: broad, majority of posterior lip of talus
Treatment Options
Conservative
a. Activity and shoe modification
i. Lateral heel wedge, lowering heels, stiff soles
b. Orthotics with lateral heel wedge
c. Aircast, ankle corset, strapping
d. Peroneal strengthening exercises
e. Jones compression dressing
f. RICE
g. NSAIDs
Surgical
a. Success of conservative therapy
b. Degree of ankle instability
c. Activity level
d. Compliance
e. Surgical risk factors
f. Primary repair or not primary repair
i. Degree of ligament scarring and elongation
ii. How old is the instability?
g. Drill hole difficulty
h. Tendon harvest length
i. Single ligament repair vs double ligament repair
j. Regional anatomy considerations
iii. Intermediate dorsal cutaneous nerve
iv. Sural nerve
v. Small saphenous vein
vi. Peroneal tendons
Surgical Goals:
Restore proper geometric alignment of the ligaments
Restore mechanical and functional stability to the lateral side
Full ROM
Brostrom – 1966
- Imbrication of ATFL and CFL
- Gold standard for procedure comparison
- Reported satisfactory results in 85% of patients
- Disadvantage: difficult to expose and suture torn ends due to scarring and elongation of
the ligaments
- Summary: anatomic reapproximation of the ATF and CF with possible ATF
augmentation utilizing the lateral talocalcaneal ligament. ATF is not incised during the
capsular incision.
- Brostrom’s Logic for anatomic reconstruction: “previously used tenodesis operations
are technically fairly complicated, that the healing time is long, that the normal anatomy
is not fully restored, that increased stability is obtained at the price of diminished
supination mobility , that they are unsuitable in children because of the risk of epiphyseal
damage, and that in most cases they entail weakening of the peroneus muscles.”
- Original article citation: Brostrom, Lennart. Sprained ankles VI. Surgical treatment of
“chronic” ligament ruptures. Acta Chir Scand 132: 551-565, 1966.
-
Modified Brostrom (Gould & Seligson) – 1980
- Imbrication of the inferior extensor retinaculum to reinforce repair
- Suture whatever one can find
- Reinforcing the ATF ligament repair with overlap of lateral
talocalcaneal ligament plus inferior extensor retinaculum
- 30 minute procedure
- Small incision
- Summary: Anatomic reconstruction/reapproximation of the lateral
ankle ligaments with the use of the inferior extensor retinaculum for
augmentation.
Modified Brostrom Procedure – 1994
o 1994, JFAS, Paden, Stone & McGarry from PSL Denver CO
o Indications: Chronic lateral ankle instability
o Summary: anatomic reconstruction of the ATF and CF (possibly) that differs from the
original Brostrom in that 1) the ATF is incised during the capsular incision; 2) Mitek
anchors are used and 3) lateral talocalcaneal ligament is not used for augmentation of the
ATF.
Nilsonne – 1932
- Repair of ATF
- Detach PB at musculotendinous junction
- Suture in subperiosteal groove in lateral aspect of lateral malleolus
- Does not recreate normal anatomical orientation of ATF
Elmslie – 1934
- Repair of ATF and CF
- Tensor fascia lata graft
- Osseous canal in talar neck, lateral malleolus and lateral body of the
calcaneus
Hambly – 1945
- Repair of ATF and CF ligaments
- Split PL
- Suture to the lateral talar neck, pass through fibula anterior to posterior
and fixated to CF ligament insertion
Haig – 1950
- Summary: Used the bony attachment of the anterior inferior tibiofibular ligament to re-
inforce the ATF.
Evans – 1953
- Summary: Peroneus brevis cut proximally and musculotendinous
junction and passed through fibular drill hole from anterior-inferior
to posterior-superior. Tendon sutured to the posterior fibular
periosteum.
Winfield – 1953
- Summary: Peroneus brevis tendon through osseous fibular tunnel, passed through
calcaneal osseous tunnels and sutured to itself.
Pouzet – 1954
- Summary: Peroneus longus tendon cut proximally, routed through the fibula from
anterior to posterior and sutured back onto itself.
Watson – Jones – 1955
- Repairs ATF ligament
- Detach PB at musculotedinous junction
- Two holes in fibula in posterior superior direction
- Trephine hole in the lateral talar neck
- Route PB through superior fibular hole, talar trephine, inferior
fibular hole
- Suture tendon to itself
Lee – 1957
- ATF ligament repair
- Modification of Watson – Jones because of technical difficulty
and need for excessive tendon length
- One hole in fibula
- Tendon is entered posteriorly to anteriorly and sutured to PB and
PL tendons distally
Storen – 1959
- Summary: Two stages. First stage utilized the medial 1/3rd of the tendo Achilles to pass
posterior to anterior through the fibula and the talar neck from superior to inferior and
sutured to the bifurcate ligament. Second stage cut the medial 1/3rd of the tendo Achilles
at its attachment to the calcaneus and rerouted this proximally superficial to the peroneal
tendons and into the calcaneal attachment of the CF ligament.
Common Procedures
- Watson-Jones, Evans, Christman & Snook are the most widely used procedures and have
a high rate of success
- Disadvantages:
• Do not place graft in anatomically correct position
• Loss of eversion & plantarflexion due to use of peroneus brevis
• Extensive surgical exposure
Post – Op Care
- 10 – 12 weeks of protection
- NWB BK cast 4 – 6 weeks
- WB BK cast 3 weeks
- Physical therapy modalities and strengthening following cast removal
Summary
- Repair of ATF ligament only
• Modified brostrom
• Nilsonne
• Evans
• Watson Jones
• Lee
- Debate of only one vs two ligaments repair
• ATF is the primary lateral stabilizer
Spiral fracture: this is always a type of torque fracture. It usually takes a 360 degree
course with a vertical connecting segment between the two opposing sharp spikes of the
fracture. This is also usually orientated at 45 degrees
Comminuted fracture: this suggests the presence of two or more fracture planes and has
at least three fragments. This is usually due to very high velocity loading, it is a high
energy failure with load concentration over a small area of the bone.
Maisonneuve (1840): The New House fracture. Fracture of the proximal 1/3rd of the
fibula.
LeFort (1886): Described a vertical fracture of the fibula due to SAD type forces.
Chaput – Tillaux (1872): In 1872 Tillaux described a medial deltoid injury or medial
malleolar fracture, a fibular fracture 2 inches proximal to the ankle joint, AND an
anterior lateral tibial tubercle fracture. In 1907, Chaput conducted laboratory studies of
this fracture which is why the fracture of the anterior lateral tibial tubercle contains both
names.
Wagstaffe (1873): Distal fibular fracture due to avulsion of the anterior inferior tibial-
fibular ligament. An SER type injury.
VonVolkman (1875): Originally described as an anterior lateral lip of the fibula fracture
due to avulsion of the anterior tibial-fibular ligament and interosseous membrane due to
PAB type forces. Now: posterior lateral tibial fracture
Cotton (1915): Described a posterior malleolar fracture with a medial malleolar fracture
and a fibular fracture just proximal to the joint level. Trimalleolar fracture.
Correlating Danis-Weber and Lauge-Hansen
1. What is the big difference between a SER type fracture and a PAB type fracture?
SER has a posterior fibular spike while a PAB has a posterior tibial fracture
6. You are called to see a patient in the ER. The ER nurse tells you in a stressed out near
hysterical voice that this patient has a transverse fracture of the fibula and a near vertical
fracture of the medial malleolus. What type of fracture is she describing?
SER 2 or Danis Weber A
7. At what stage of the SER injury, would you see a Wagstaffe fracture?
SER 1
10. Who wrote the original article relating the displacement of the talus in the mortise and
the affect of this displacement on the ankle joint congruity? What did this article
conclude?
Ramsey and Hamilton. JBJS. 1976.
This article concluded that 1 mm of lateral displacement of the talus leads to a 42% reduction in
contact area of the ankle joint. Meaning: reduce your freaking fibular fracture.However, when
doing their cadaveric experiments, they removed all soft tissue from around the ankle joint and
did not allow the talus to compensate for being displaced. More recent studies have indicated that
the talus tends to move back into the mortise when compressed if allowed to do so.
AO Fixation
Stress risers: areas of concentrated stress which can predispose the segment to fracture. This can
be caused by screw holes, bone graft excision, entrance points of blood vessels, tumors or
iatrogenic damage to the bone.
Static: generated by ‘pre load’ of lag screws or tubular plates that prevent separation of two
surfaces as long as the functional load produced by limb performance is less than the preload
generated by the screws or plates. The compression is constant in nature. This can also be
accomplished by rigid external fixation.
Load screw technique: This technique is performed by using an offset (eccentric) drilled hole for
the initial screws used to fixation the plate to the fracture fragments. The plate is aligned on the
reduced fracture site, the thread hole is drilled at the far side of the plate hole or at the edge of the
hole farthest from the fracture site. As the screw is inserted, the head of the screw will seat itself
into the center of the hole in the plate by shifting the bone fragment in the direction of the
fracture. This motion is countered by a similar shift from the opposite fragment, and as the two
fragments are pushed toward each other, interfragmental compression is created. Only the initial
two screws adjacent to the fracture line are used as load screws. This is the most common
application of plate fixation used in the foot and ankle region. ½, 1/3, ¼, tubular plates have great
tensile strength but do not resist against bending. Application of a pate plus interfragmentary
compression with screw is a great way to created rigidity
within the fracture area.
Types of Plates
Neutralization: Allowing the pathologic forces to be
‘transmitted’ through the implant (plate) rather than through
the fracture interface, thus the plate takes the strain rather
than the fracture (as in a neutralization plate for a fibular
fracture.) This is a protection plate.
The difference between a neutralization plate and a buttress
plate is the way in which the plate is used.
Buttressing: Used to ‘hold together’ a comminuted fracture. May times this is used in the
metaphyseal area of long bones since they fail in a more random fashion than cortical bone.
Dynamic compression plate: DCP incorporates the load screw technique with the added effect of
geometrically designed slots within the body of the fixation plate. This plate is significantly
thicker and stiffer than tension plates. DCP is suitable for a solitary fixation device for a
transverse fracture. There are individual DCP for use with 4.5 mm, 3.5 mm and 2.7 mm cortical
screws. The major problem with the DCP is an alteration in periosteal blood supply. This is due
to contact of the undersurface of the plate for extended periods of time. Also, these plates are
thick and may cause hardware irritation problems.
Limited Contact Dynamic Compression Plates (LC-DCP): These plates have grooves on the
underside of the plates so that the blood supply to the bone is not impaired.
Lag screws: When the screw is placed across the failure plane so that its threads do not contact
the near cortex side of the bone. Thus the threads of the screw will only purchase the far or distal
cortex and pull the two surfaces together when the undersurface of the screw head contacts the
proximal bone cortex. This is a principle and results from the use of the screw, not the design of
the screw.
Plate Sizes:
semi tubular plate: fits 4.5 mm screws
one third tubular plate: fits 3.5 mm & 4.0 mm
one quarter tubular plate: fits 2.7 mm screw
posterior anti-glide plate
a. placed posteriorly on the fibula
b. indicated for Danis-Weber type B fracture
c. why? These fractures tend to displace posteriorly and superiorly
d. the plate will resist the displacement and provide some compression
External Fixation
7 Principles of Callus Distraction (some of these principles are relative to the particular
anatomical correction)
1. Preservation of blood supply
- atraumatic corticotomy
2. Rigid external fixation
3. Latency period before distraction
- usually 7 – 14 days; allows 1st stage of bone healing to begin
4. Steady rate of distraction
- about 1 mm / day
5. Ideal frequency of distraction
- about .25 mm per turn (4 turns per day)
6. WB on limb during distraction
7. Post distraction healing time
- for every 1 mm of lengthening you must rest for 1 week
General Advantages
• applicable to closed, open or limited open surgical techniques
• device can be conformed to the shape of the leg and foot which will allow
multifunctional correction
• allows acute or gradual lengthening
• can be adjusted post operatively
• can be stable enough to permit early weight bearing
General Disadvantages
• Disliked by patients
• Disliked by surgeons
• Lengthy treatment time
• Increase risk of infection compared to internal fixation (ex: pin tract infections)
Largest role in foot & ankle surgery is with pilon fractures
Types of External Fixators
Circular
a. Ilizarov frame
b. Taylor spatial frame
i. Six color coordinated knobs
ii. Radiographic parameters put into a computer
iii. Knobs are turned to a certain number each day according to the computer
calculations
iv. New device
Monolateral
a. Orthofix
b. Hidleburg
c. Hoffman
Hybrid
a. Combination of the ilizarov and monolateral frames
Dynamimzation: process by where stress is gradually applied to the new bone that has formed so
that the trabecular bone will remodel according to Wolf’s law making the regenerate strong and
suitable for weight bearing without the device. This is initially done by loosening up the device
gradually. If the is not done the regenerate will fracture very easily.
The Ilizarov method consists of passing numerous perpendicular wires through the bone at
regular intervals and attaching them to the external rings and bars to stabilize the bone segment.
This configuration makes it possible to move bone at a specific rate and frequency, while
simultaneously providing rigid fixation of the adjacent bone for ambulation.
The Ilizarov technique is called the callous distraction method (distraction histiogenesis). While
rigid stabilization of two ends of a long bone is provided, the bone itself may be lengthened to
correct a short extremity. Rapid healing takes place in the site from which the bone was stretched.
This technique requires only a few small holes in the skin large enough for the passage of a small
osteotome. This narrow, chisel-like tool is used with a mallet to cut circumferentially the cortex
of the bone. Such a corticotomy leaves the marrow space intact. The low tensile strength of this
portion of the bone allows it to be easily stretched. The blood supply to the segment is
‘transported’ 1 mm/day as the patient turns the screw on the device. As the cortex moves apart,
rapid cortical healing takes place. The results in new bone formation at the donor site and in a
longer extremity.
The basis for 1 mm/day is so the neurovascular bundles aren’t acutely stretched and so the
cortical bone can heal as distraction occurs.
Specific uses of external fixation in the lower extremity
• non unions
• trauma (pilon fractures, etc)
• osteomyelitis (useful when large amounts of bone is resected)
• lengthening (tibial, metatarsal)
• arthrodesis (ankle, subtalar)
- advantages: 1) longer lever arm than internal fixation; 2)post-op adjustability
• correct malunions
• severe deformities (clubfoot, etc)
• joint preservation
o re alignment of arthritic joints
• supramalleolar osteotomy to realign the ankle joint
o the anterolateral aspect of the ankle joint is the most loaded part and is usually
where arthritis will begin
o distraction of arthritis joints can decrease pain, though no studies have show that
articular cartilage will regrow
o CORA: center of rotation of angulation
Osteotomy at this point will lead to a full realignment of the foot & ankle
Bone Grafting in the Foot and Ankle
Two basic types of bone grafts
Cancellous
• Used to fill smaller defects
• Cancellous bone typically has superior osteogenic potential
• Osteoinductive in nature; to some extent osteoconduction
• Large amount of viable cells and proteins that increase the bone induction potential
Bone morphogenic protein (BMP) is present in bone matrix that acts as
an inductor substance
• Initially describe by Marshall Urist in the early 70s
• Now is being produced through recombinant gene technology
• They incorporate quicker than cortical graft
• They are radiodense as they heal
Cortical (structural)
• generally used to fill large defects or where structural segments of the WB axis of the RF
are missing (talus, calcaneus, tibia)
• marked higher structural strength
• osteoconductive in nature
• can be obtained from the iliac crest, proximal tibia, distal tibia and fibula
• after grafting, there is resportion of the graft during revascularization but some structural
integrity usually remains during the process of bone graft incorporation to allow the graft
to withstand the loads of weightbearing
• since some osteoclastic resorption must precede osteogenesis, cortical graft will appear
radiolucent
• slower to incorporate compared to cancellous graft
Osteoconductive: Osteo" means "bone". Osteoconduction refers to the ability of some materials
to serve as a scaffold on which bone cells can attach, migrate (meaning move or "crawl"), and
grow and divide. In this way, the bone healing response is "conducted" through the graft site, just
as we say that electricity is conducted through a wire. Osteogenic cells generally work much
better when they have a matrix or scaffold to attach to. Associated with the term creeping
substitution.
Osteoinductive: Induction of bone formation refers to the capacity of many normal chemicals in
the body to stimulate primitive "stem cells" or immature bone cells to grow and mature, forming
healthy bone tissue. Most, but not all of these signals are protein molecules called, as a group,
"peptide growth factors" or "cytokines". Many of these growth factors are present in normal
human bone. For this reason, methods have been developed to process human bone and prepare
bone matrix which retains the normal growth factors, but limit, if not eliminate, the risk of
transmitting diseases or viruses. "Allograft Bone" processed in this way is currently the only
approved way in which surgeons can use an osteoinductive stimulus.
Corticocancellous bone graft: combination of cortical and cancellous graft. This is the optimal
graft to use in the foot and ankle. Tricortical graft taken from the iliac crest is an example of this.
The choice of which bone graft to use depends on the biologic and mechanical properties of the
graft required.
Autograft: viable bone tissue taken from one area of the host and implanted into another
Allograft: non living bone graft from someone other than the host.
- only functions as a substrate for osteoconduction
- several types
• frozen allograft
• freeze dried allograft
• demineralized or decalcified allograft
• artificial allograft
Cierny – Mader
Anatomic Stage Physiologic Stage
I: medullary A: good systemic defense & local vascularity
II: superifical B: systemic & local compromise
III: localized C: non candidate for surgery with tx increasing
IV: diffuse morbidity and mortality than non treatment
Buckholtz
7 surgical classifications for osteo
I: wound induced
II: mechanicogenic infection (implants)
III: physeal osteo
IV: ischemic limb disease
V: combination (I – IV as acute osteo)
VI: osteitis with septic arthritis
VII: chronic osteo
8. What disease is the CREST syndrome associated with and what does it stand for?
Associated with Scleroderma (systemic sclerosis); this syndrome occurs in the
limited form of the disease
C: calcinosis
R: raynaud’s phemenon
E: esophygeal dysmotility
S: sclerodactyly
T: telangectasia
14. If a pt is taking Rifampin and notice a red color in their urine, should they be
worried?
No, this is a normal side effect. Rifampin may turn body fluids red
34. What is responsible for pain, temp, light touch and itch?
Anterolateral spinothalamic tract
Social questions
Two Abx to give for OM: Clinda and Cipro – two of the best bone penetrators + coverage for all bugs;
then consult Infectious D.
Principles of AO fixation: Stable internal fixation, Anatomic reduction, early return to ADL, atraumatic
technique >>> WHY? To prevent cast disease/disuse syndrome – arthritis, osteopenia
Mini frag set (1.5, 2.0, 2.7) Small (3.5, 4.0) Large (4.5,6.5)
Bunion screw 4.0: No OD, 2.5UD, 2.7Countersink, 4.0Tap
1.5 screw UD1.1, 2.0 screw UD1.5, 2.7screw UD2.0
Capsacin – blocks substance P – for neuropathic patient who is having a lot of pain
Toradol (IM/IV NSAID), Tramadol (abuser opioid like). Strength: Hydro then Oxy
So: Morphine – Hydromorphone (dilaudid) – oxymorphone, then Hydrocodone (vicodin)- Oxycodone,
then Darvocet (Propoxphene + acetaminophen)
Vicodin (hydrocodone + acetominphen)
Heparin for PTT – 5000U load, 1000U maintain – Protamine Sulfate to reverse
Vancomycin is renal toxic! Hence peaks/trough: draw 30 minutes before or after the 3rd admin dose
Peak – Shouldn’t be 30+, Trough – Shouldn’t be more than 10+ <more important number> + keep em
hydrated with IV fluids
Albumin should be 3.0 or your flap/sx won’t heal. Lab value lags 7 days – give ensure/protein powder
High power (Dexamethasone, Betamethasone) Medium (Medrol dose pack) Low (Hydrocortisone)
Decadron = dexamethasone
DKA (Diabetic ketoacidosis) – extreme high glucose – no more insulin available: body switches to
burning fat = ketone bodies. Symptoms: Kussmaul breathing, vomit, nausea, confusion, dehydration
Diagnose via BMP (acetone in blood), ABG (= acidosis Allen test), UA (ketone bodies, glucose spill too)
Treat via: IV FLUIDS + INSULIN + K + BICARBONATE
THINGS I SHOULD KNOW OZ
Not shown are A and P perforating arteries! Rmr the the posterior ones are out of sync since the first
one is actually the deep plantar!
THINGS I SHOULD KNOW OZ
THINGS I SHOULD KNOW OZ
Note: malleolar fossa on fibula: Sup: inferior transverse ligament, Inf: PTFL
Deltoid ligament:
Superficial – tib-na, tib-calc, SUPERFICIAL POSTERIOR tib-talar
Deep – DEEP POSTERIOR tib-talar, ANTERIOR tib-talar
DIC disseminated intravasc coagulopathy: widespread activation of coag system = emboli + bleed
treat w/ two things: infuse plates/plasma + IV heparin!
Huge ulcers on the medial aspect of the leg - secondary to venous insuff > edema > skin looses nutrients
= ulcer!
IV HEPARIN - PTT - 5000units to load, 1000 per hour thereafter 4-6days REVERSE VIA protamine
sulphate: half life is 1.5 hours
Coumadin - VIT K factors: 7,9,10 - 10mg qd 6months REVERSE VIA vitK or FFP(faster reversal): half life is
20-60 hours (change dose as per INR)
Streptokinase or Urokinase
All American Procedure (Flatfoot/Severe PTTD): TAL, Medial displacement calc osteotomy, CCjoint
lenghthening(Evans), FHL or FDL transfer to the PT
PTTD = RF Valgus = TendoAchilles pulls more valgus onto it!
Syndesmotic lig complex: ATFL, PTFL, Interosseous, inf transv tibfib = syndesmotic injury!
Syndesmotic lig injury repair: debride the whole area, mitek to recreate ATFL, Syndesmotic screw
thrown across tib and fib
Grafts:
Real: Autologous (self), Allogenic (same species - apli and derma), xenogenic (porcine)
DERMAGRAFT: Dermis + fibroblasts <foreskin>
APLIGRAF: Living skin/epidermis
Synthetic: Collagen, hylauronic acid
Extensor Hallucis Capsularis/Peronues Digiti Minimi/ Woods muscle <From abdDM - inserts into 5th
base>
Third plantar common digital branch <MPN> is where you get Mortons neuromas (often comm with
Plantar common DB off LPN)
Arterial ulcers: lateral leg (or at trauma site – IPJ) – Lots of pain, no exhudate
THINGS I SHOULD KNOW OZ
0 = no movement
1 = trace movement
2 = movement with the aid of resistance
3 = movement against gravity
4 = movement against resistance supplied by the examiner
5 = normal strength
Types of Neuropathy
D - diabetic
A - alcohol
N - nutritional
G - Guillan-Barre
T - toxic
H - hereditary
R - recurrent
A - amyloidosis
P - porphyria
I - infectious
S - systemic
T - tumor
CRPS: pain is distal to the site of trauma to begin with but can spread proximally in later stages.
Vasodilation can exhibit warm skin, dry skin, and hypohidrosis. Vasoconstriction can exhibit cyanosis,
cool skin, edema of the part, and hyperhidrosis. Trophic changes involving the skin, muscles, bone and
joints can occur in later stages. The examiner may see thin, atrophic skin, absent of hair and witness
osteoporotic changes on x-ray.
Stages of anesthesia:
I – Analgesia/Amnesia (pre, partial, total)
II – Delirium (excitement etc)
III – Surgical Anesthesia
IV – Medullary paralysis
Malignant hyperthermia
Thought to be due to reduction in the reuptake of Ca by the sarcoplasmic reticulum necessary for the
termination of muscle contraction
Dantrolene 2.5 mg/kg IV initially – 175mg for 70kgmale
Also do ice bath, bicarbonate, insulin
Fracture:
1. Open vs. closed
2. Shape
3. Location
4. Intra-articular vs. extra-articular
5. Complete vs. incomplete
6. Displaced vs. non-displaced
1. Tetanus history
2. Thorough H&P with complete neurological, vascular and musculoskeletal exam
3. Complete x-rays
4. Antibiosis admitted in the ED with cultures
5. Immediate debridement and irrigation
6. All foreign bodies should be removed
7. All marginal and macerated tissue should be debrided and re-debrided as necessary after 48-72
hours.
8. Types 1, 2 and 3A get delayed primary closure within 5-7 days
THINGS I SHOULD KNOW OZ
9. Types 3B and 3C usually require skin flaps due to such a loss of tissue
10. External fixation for all type 3 and unstable type 2 fractures
11. Internal fixation should be used for articular and metaphyseal open fractures, preferably
within 8 hours.
Tetanus:
TIG is only given in patients (any age) when they have never received a tetanus shot (usually pediatric
patients)
Compartment syndrome: normal 5mmHg, exercise 150mmHg (returns to normal in 5 min), 30+ = with
wick catheder
PRE-OP: DM PATIENT
Early morning Sx is best. If not start D5W.
Want glucose 150-200. Don’t take meds if <200. If 200+ take insulin.
Minor procedure: can d/c oral meds for the day of surgery.
For major procedures: ½ insulin dose on the morning of. Start D5W during case. And then give 1-2 units
in surgery.
If patient is taking more than 7.5mg of steroid per day – cannot d/c steroid! Give 100mg IV
hydrocortisone pre op and then 100mg post op.
Steroid: poor wound healing, infection.
Gout patient for sx: give Colchicine 0.5mg TID for 5 days before, 5 days after Sx
5W’s:
Wind (1 day post-op)- aspiration
Water (2 days post-op)- UTI
Wound (3 days post-op)- infection
Walk (4 days post-op)- DVT
THINGS I SHOULD KNOW OZ
Screw is either: positional (ie holding the plate) OR is a lag screw (compressing – only if proximal threads
don’t purchase – ie overdrill)
Plate types:
Static compression: normal compression
Dynamic compression: static + physiological stress = more compression <has the sliding screw or
ECCENTRIC DRILLING>
Neutralization plate: fracture first fixated via a lag-screw, then this plate is put on on top – to neutralize
3 evil forces: bending, torsion, shear
Buttress plate: maintains length in case of big defect
Note if the fracture length is TWICE that of the bone: use multiple lag screws!
PCA example: 4mg initial dose of Morphine. 1mg per 20 minute, with 10 minute lockout etc.
D/C <8 breaths per min or systolic is <90mmHg
Talus supplied by: PT (A of tarsal canal), DP (A of sinus tarsi), Perf peroneal: neck branches
Lateral ankle ligaments: CFL, ATFL, PTFL, and Lateral Talo-Calc ligament
Sural nerve = medial sural cutaneous nerve + comm. Branch from lateral sural cutaneous nerve
THINGS I SHOULD KNOW OZ
Nail and tip of toes are mostly by the plantar proper digital arteries
DMC lecture
Chronic wound definition: reduction in 50% area in 4 weeks (has not happened)
>65N/m2 = ulcer since O2 tension is reduced
TCPO2 30mmHg = good O2 – do it to determine amputation level
MMPs – not good since they deactivate GF in wound
Calciphylaxis is a syndrome of vascular calcification, thrombosis and skin necrosis (@ ESRD patient)
Pyoderma gangrenosum – huge deep ulcers that are due to auto-immune diseases
Dakin solution – bleach + water + baking soda
Santyl – collegnase/self debrider
Regranex – GF paste
Apligraf – living epidermis (ALL GF) – after application don’t mess with it for one week
Dermagraft: dermis + fibroblasts (MISSING SOME GF)
Aquacell: absorbs exhudate + has silver in it
Diabetic Drugs:
Metformin – STANDARD DRUG – ↓ carb resportion + ↑ insulin sensitivity (WRONG)
Glitazone - ↑ insulin sensiƟvity
Acarbose - ↓ carb resporƟon
Meglitinide - ↑ Bcells to secrete insuline
Sulfonyureas -↑ Bcells to secrete insuline
GLP analog – Glucagon like peptide – give sensation of being full
Dpp4i inhibitor – DPP4 break down GLP
First drug will lower Hb1ac by 1.5, second 0.7, third 0.5
Sliding scale – controversial – basically see what patients glucose level is BEFORE meal and then give
them units of insulin. However post-food glucose may be huge! Therefore trial and error method – give
5 units Lispro, see post-food glucose! If reached 900, try 10 units etc etc
Primaxin = imipenem + cilastatin (protect kidney via inhibiting enz that break down imipenem)
= Gorillamycin since broadest spectrum
SE: Seizures!
PCN allergy: use CLINDA or CIPRO (cross sensitivity of PCN and CEF is 1-5%)
Vanco IV 1g q12 slow infuse(over 1 hour) or get red-neck syndrome (Red man syndrome = Rifampin)
Tx Redman/neck with Benadryl
Peak is high(lower dose), low(higher dose). Trough is high(increase interval), low(lower interval)
Peak30/Trough10
Z pack aka Azithromycin – 250mg tab, 2 for first day, 1 each for 4 days
Diarrhea – Pseudo colitis (by Clostridium difficile) OR regular colitis (by S Aureus)
TX with Vanco PO 125mg or Flagyl PO 500mg
MRSA KILLERS:
IV – Vanco, Clinda, Linezolid, Primaxin, Bactrim, Rifampin
PO – Clinda, Linezolid, Bactrim, Rifampin
Topical - Bactroban
Xanthoma – Bactrim
Lyme disease – Doxcyyline
Necrotizing fasciitis – Primaxin
MEDIAL of foot – EHL – Deep peroneal nerve – Dorsalis Pedis artery – LATERAL of foot
Circulation coming down from the heart: AA to common iliac to external iliac to femoral to popliteal - …
Skin graft healing stages: plasmatic (nutrient thru plasma), neovascular, reorganize, reinnevate
Wound healing stages: inflamm, proliferative, remodel
Bone graft stages: vascularization, blastic, osteoinduc, osteoconduc, remodel
Hollow Mill: if you strip the head of a screw, use this – its drills out both screw and surrounding bone
Iontophoresis: Therapeutic ultra sound w/steroid cream (supposed to make the steroid absorb deeper)
Discoid meniscus: the lateral meniscus of the knee isn’t C shaped, and does taper, instead its thick (rare
anamoly)
4 grams is max does of Tylenol – therefore Vicodin(500/5): can only take 8 in a day!
Coumadin/Warfarin SE: Warfarin necrosis – skin necrosis! BLACK. Associated with high loading dose,
This is because Coumadin initially increases coagulation (paradoxical) – this is because Coumadin also
kills protein C!!!!!
Coumadin kills Vit k associated factors AND Protein C. (Rmr Protein C is also an anti-coagulator!)
LMA – Laryngeal mask airway – like General, except no intubation, more like a triangular mask over
larynx
Liver enzymes:
ALT – high also due to musc break down
Creatinine Kinase – high due to MI (CK-MB more specific)
Alk phosp – high due to biliary duct blockage
Sporanox aka itraconazole – PO antifungal take 1 day 7 days daily, then 3 weeks off, then 7 days, then 3
weeks off, then 7 days
Reverse flow gradient: @ Monckenberg sclerosis Pressures: 100, 212, 104 = back flow!
Also get CXR(so its not a lung thing) and EKG and ABG (pulmonary gases, Allen test)
Draw a MI Screen (troponin, CK-MB)
Give one unit over FOUR hours (this is for our patients, if emergency bleeding = give bolus/over one
hour etc)
99% patients: 2 units over 8 hours – Do loop diuretic in between (so then can pee ins and outs)
LASIX = FUROSEMIDE
Types of transfusions:
Whole blood – never given, give em what they need
packedRBC – most common
Albumin – increases volume only (wont help with healing)
Platelet – to increase PT/PTT/INR for bleeder surgery
FFP – for Coumadin
Cryoprecipitate – (=fibrinogen) for VonWilder disease
150-500K is normal platelet. 100K is minimum for Sx. <50 is = spontaneous bleed
Bohlers angle: top of anterior process to top of calc post facet to top of calc tuberosity
Norm: 25-40
Gissane angle: (strut) ant and middle facet compared
Norm: 120 – changes with calcaneal fractures
Talo-calcaneal angle (on DP): 21
Talar declination angle: 21
Calc inclincation angle: 21
Note talar head is 15 degrees medial, and 25 degrees plantarflexed
Cyma line: S shape line formed by CC and TN joints (supination moves it post, pron moves it anteriorly)
Splay foot: increased IM angles for all (12+ for 1st and 2nd, 8+ between 4th and 5th)
THINGS I SHOULD KNOW OZ
Toygar angle: usually achilles is 180 (its straight), when ruptured, it would be less
Silver – bumpectomy + lateral release (Add H, FDB, DTML cut, lat capsulotomy, freeing fib sesamoid)
Mcbride – Silver + fibular sesmoidectomy
Head
Note True IM = Measured IM + (TAA -15)
IM 12-14 head, 15-17 shaft, 18+ base
THINGS I SHOULD KNOW OZ
Austin – <
Youngswick – < with extra dorsal cut
Kalish – long dorsal arm
Reverdin – thru n thru wedge
Reverdin Green – w/shelf
Reverdin Laird – thru n thru
Reverdin Laird Todd – thru n thru and PF fragment
Shaft
Hohman – trapezoid
Vogler – long dorsal arm
Mau/Ludloff
Base
Juvara – thru n thru
CWBO/OWBO
MT adductus procedures:
Heyman Herdon Strong – cut off all tarsal-MT ligaments (except 5th-Cuboid)
Bertman Gartland – cresenteric osteotomies of all MT
Flatfoot procedures:
All American – Evans + TAL + Calc slide + FHL to TP
ST procedures <KIDS>
Young – TAL + TA re-rout thru nav
Hoke – Nac-cunei fusion
Arthroeresis <KIDS> “lift joint”
MBA – SELF LOCKING – keeps the lateral process of talus off the sinus tarsi
STA-PEG - AXIS ALTERING – eleveates the floor of the sinus tarsi
Mushroom – IMPACT REDUCER – reduces impact
Osteotomies
Evans – Insert bone in CC joint
Dwyer – remove wedge, base is medial
Silver – insert wedge, into lateral
Koutsugiannis – cresenteric
Cavus procedures:
ST procedures
THINGS I SHOULD KNOW OZ
Steindler stripping
Jones tenosuspension
STATT
Peroneal stop – PL taken out via, suturing to PB, therefore more eversion
Osteotomies
Triple/STJ/AJ fusion
Dwyer – opposite dwyer, wedge taken out, base medial
Cole – wedge taken out at cuneis and cuboid, base is dorsal
Japas – A V (looking DP) cut made and whole FF PFed
Hallux limitus:
Jones Tenosuspension
STATT
TAL
Hoke – 3 small incisions 2 medial 1 lateral
Baker tongue in groove – tongue is on the distal
Frontal plane Z #1
Silverskoid Test:
Limited DF @ both - GASTRO-SOLEAL tight: do Frontal plane Z
Limited DF @ knee extended - GASTROC tight: Baker tongue in groove
OATS procedure: for talar OCD – remove bone w/ cart from knee
THINGS I SHOULD KNOW OZ
NON ABSORBABLE
Ethilon - poly proplene
Prolene - nylon
ABSORBABLE
Vicryl - Lasts 4 weeks
Monocryl - Lasts 2 weeks
Classification systems:
Danis Weber
A = SAD
B = SER, PAB
C = PER, PDF
Sneppen: Talar body – 1(OCD) 2(body) 3(post tubercule) 4(lateral process) 5(crush)
Johnson + Strom:
I mild degen
II attenuation
III rupture
IV rigid valgus
Conti (MRI)
I longitudinal tears
II variable degen
III diffuse swelling
Note: Stewart: Mostly Jones (so type 1), Other most common is either 2 or 3 (cuz PB avulsion – 2Intra,
3Extra)
Antimicrobial dressing:
Acticoat – Silver 100ppm for 3 days
Actisorb – Charcoal and silver
Aquacell – Aquacell Ag contains Silver
Hydrofera Blue – Gentian Violet/Methylene Blue
Compression dressings:
Unna boot
Pro-Fore (5 layers: contact layer, webril, bandage, elastic compression, Coban)
Soft cast: Webril/Unna/Coban – Passive compression only (only when they walk)
Non-Antimicrobial dressings:
Iodosorb – beads with Iodine – bacteria and debris become trapped in it also – therefore wash
wound then changing dressing with iodosorb application last time. 3x a week. Contra:
allergy/hashimoto/goiter
Prisma/Promogran – matrix/collagen
Oasis – ECM
Regranex – Platelet derived GF
Xeroform – gauze + Vaseline + abx salt
Grafts:
Alloderm - collagen
Dermagraft – dermis/fibroblast
Apligraft – living epidermis
Graft Jacket – human dermis
TBI = toe brachial index – more accurate than ABI for foot and calcified arteries. Normal value 0.7
Titanium screw is weaker than stainless, however it is more elastic, and less scatter on MRI
Titanium plates = best, since want some flexibility or it will break
Lesser MT:
head procedure = may cut nutrient a.
shaft procedure = no blood supply
base procedure = too much correction
Tight rope for bunion – biggest problem: 2nd MT stress Fx (since you have a hole in the 2nd head), will
loosen up, will rupture = fiberwire
Neural tube = cover both ends of the cut nerve to connect a cut nerve
Double crush syndrome – same nerve damaged twice at two different spots – rmr neuropathic nerves
are swelled up, hence tarsal tunnel + back injury + neuroma etc
TRANSMALLEOLAR SCREWS: need to be removed in 12WEEKS (since motion between tibia and fibule)
otherwise will break
Neuropathy: (1) Demylinate via sorbitol (2) myelin production is down since need microvessels (3)
Osmotic effect (hyperglycemia cuz nerve loves sugar – water comes/follows in) (4) oxidative stress
Tyloma = HPK0
Vassal rule: Fixate the most unstable fx first (the others will take care of themselves)
Vertical stress test: test for subluxable MTPJ – hold MT and PP and try to push up the proximal phalanx
Plantar fasciitis is always on LEFT – since right arm and left leg are dominant and longer
Antetorsion - int
Retrotorsion -ext
Anteversion -ext
Retroversion –int
In-toeing caused by (1) MT adductus (2) Femoral retroversion (3) Antetorsion (4) Int tib torsion (5) Int
malleolar position
THINGS I SHOULD KNOW OZ
Metaphyseal fx – ie 5th base – need WB to heal! Cast for 6 weeks (normal cast time 8w)
Charcot OM Arthritis
T1 Normal Decreased Normal
T2Increased Increased Increased
PMNA Poly-methyl-acrylate-beads
Remember that Sural nerve is formed by: M sural cutaneous (+ comm. Branch off L sural cutaneous)
AVN – Possible treatment options: Core decompression, Vascularized bone graft, non-vascularized bone
graft, fusion (talo-calc, talo-tib, blair), talectomy. ALSO: percutaneous drilling w/Steinman pin
Piezoelectric phenomenon: Negative Charge @ Compression = bone deposition (Thus Bone stim – apply
cathode at where you want bone to be deposited!)
Vanco and all other Abx cause Neutropenia: Daptomycin is the least causing of em all – good for OM
Tx for Neutropenia is G-CSF
Dermatome:
Sciatic nerve: Ventral Rami of L4, L5, S1, S2, S3
Tibial: Ventral division of L4, L5, S1, S2, S3
Common Peroneal: Dorsal division of L4, L5, S1, S2
THINGS I SHOULD KNOW OZ
Neuropathy drugs:
Metanx: Vit B12 supplements, Nuerontin: Gabapentin, Lyrica: Pre-Gaba, Cymbalta: depression
Charnley fx stability classification: (I: transverse most stable, II oblique most unstable, III short oblique
<45 degrees medium stability)
Codeine allergy: STUD: Toradol 10mg IV/IM, Ultram 100mg, Darvocet N-50/100
HDS proper technique: plasty PIPJ, hood release, tendon lengthen, capsulotomy, pp release,
girdlestone/taylor and desis
FF procedures:
Young – TA rerouted thru Navicular
Kidner – Rid of accessory navicular and reattach
True AVN’s:
Koehlers, Friedburg, Assman, Diaz, Leg-Calve-Perthes
CRPS stages:
(1) Hyperemic – Pain+edema+hyperhydrosis
(2) Dystrophy – more pain+brawny edema+spotty penia
(3) Atrophic - less pain+diffuse penia+flexure contractures (volksman)
Gout stages:
Asymptomatic: elevating levels of uric a
Acute: WOAH! Deposit = pain
Intercritical: inbetween acute attachs
Chronic tophaceous: 10 years+
Treat Charcot @ early stage 1 (right after dislocations/fractures) – cuz right after = osteopenia
Or Stage 3: new bone laid down and no more inflammation
Etiologies of HAV:
Biomechanical (equinus, pronation, hypermobility, FF varus, DFFR, Hallux limitus)
More Biomechanical (long 1st MT, MPE)
Arthritic (psoriatic, gouty, rheumatoid)
Others (Ehler-Danos, CMT, MS, CP)
Shaft osteotomies: Mau/Ludloff, Lambrinudi(wedge taken out with apex prox-dorsal and base disal-
plantar –PF the head!), Kalish(shaft vogler)
Reudi and Allgower – I (mild disp and comm) II (mod disp) III (severe disp and comm, AJ impacted)
AO – I extra-artic, II partial, III complete intra-art
Hawkins % 12/42/91/91
THINGS I SHOULD KNOW OZ
Lateral – Hawkin
Simple, comm, chip
Shyphillis: primary: chancre, secondary: great masquredar/mimicks others, tertiary: tabes dorsalis/CNS
Primary
• ABCD
• Tetanus
• NPO
• Is it polytrauma (Calc fx – get spinal and pelvic films)
• NVS of your LE (for compartment syndrome etc)
Secondary
• History and Physical
• X-rays/CT/MRI/Bone scans
• Labs
Surgery as appropriate
o Open Fracture
o Compartment syndrome
o AJ
o Pilon
o Calc
o LisFranc
o Talus
o MT fracture
o Tendon
o LawnMower
o Sesamoid
o GSW
o Nec Fasciitis
o FB
Open Fx:
Primary and Secondary survey
C+S
Empiric Abx
Debride in OR, Stabilize the fracture (temporary)
Repeat debridement in 48-72hrs for G+A 3
Stabilize ORI (permanent)
Abx start per C+S
Delayed primary closure 5-7 days @ Type 1 and 2
Closed fracture
Check NV status
Perform local block
Close reduce (increase deform6ity, distract, decrease deformity)
Compartment Syndrome
Remove all dressings/casts
Dependence, hydrate, Nasal O2
Fasciotimize
DPC
(most important: pain, second most: Wick)
GSW
Velocity more important than mass
High velocity (military >2000ft/s) – Radical debridement due to cavitation
Low velocity (<2000 ft/s)
Do primary and secondary survey (earlier in document)
Fracture: consider it open, treat per G+A
Otherwise debride, remove bullet if superficial or palpable
Small wound closed, others left open with C+S and prophylactic Abx
ST trauma
Do primary and secondary survey
I+D, Remove FB (if applicable)
Control bleeding with Surgicel or Thrombin pad.
Ensure H+H fro EBL
Deep cultures always
DPC (delayed primary closure)
Lawn mower/nail/Rosenthal
Do primary and secondary survey
Treat per Rosenthal
Rosenthal I (let it granulate or primary closure if <6hrs) II(V-Y or Z skin plasty) III (distal symes amp)
If <25% subungual hematoma (trephinate it), if >25% nail avulsion + suture nail bed if its torn w/ abs
suture
Don’t forget to take xrays with any subungual hematoma. I know you know this though.
Puncture wounds/FB
Do primary and secondary survey
May triangulate FB position with THREE needles (one in each plane)
Xeroradiograph is excellent for FB (wood) – now out of date
I+D and removal
Three things to ensure did not happen: OM, Cellulitis, Abscess
DPC w/ packing + deep cultures + Empiric Abx
Human/dog bite (Cats don’t bite, they are gentle creatures (unless pissed off))
Bugs looking for: E. corrodens/P. Multicoda/Rabies/Tetanus
Augmentin 875 q12 (not the 500mg)
Follow puncture guidelines: I+D, pack, DPC and Deep cultures
*human bite also includes punching someone in the face, and their teeth opening skin on your fist
Calcaneus fracture
Do primary and secondary survey
Surgerize intra-articular fx only (75% of all) – can do traction initially
Remember Essex-Loperesti technique for tongue type
Schanz pin into tuberosity. Pull proximal for length, plantarward to DF the P. Facet, evert to take out of
valgus
Otherwise: always pin or screw comet fragment to constant fragment
Pilon fracture
Remember the four steps: restore fib length, reconstruct distal tibial articulation, graft tibia, restore
medial aspect of tib
Ankle fracture
LM: place that inter-frag screw first (2.7mm) AP (pointing plantarly). Then throw a 1/3 neutralizing
plate on the lateral side (6 hole, 3.5mm), ensure one hole is not screwed, do cottons test and screw in
4.5malleolar screw if need be
MM: 2 crossed k-wires or 2 4.0 screws
PM: usually not ORIF’d (unless greater than 25% articular involvement)
LisFranc fracture
Remember to re-create the lisfranc ligament
JHASS dislocation
Don’t forget that type one needs to be OPEN reduced!
April 2009
ABPS 420 (April 2009) Page 1
Table of Contents
Page
Introduction .................................................................................................................................. 2
How to Study for ABPS Examinations ........................................................................................ 3
Written Examinations .................................................................................................................. 4
General Information .................................................................................................................. 4
Format .......................................................................................................................................... 4
Subject Areas ............................................................................................................................ 4
Board Qualified and Recertification in Foot Surgery ............................................................... 5
Board Qualified and Recertification in Reconstructive Rearfoot/Ankle Surgery ..................... 5
Self-Assessment in Foot and Ankle Surgery ............................................................................ 6
Oral Examinations........................................................................................................................ 6
General Information .................................................................................................................. 6
Certification in Foot Surgery .................................................................................................... 8
Certification in Reconstructive Rearfoot/Ankle Surgery .......................................................... 8
Sample Written Questions ......................................................................................................... 10
Foot Surgery............................................................................................................................ 10
Reconstructive Rearfoot/Ankle Surgery ................................................................................. 25
Answer Key ............................................................................................................................ 30
Suggested Reading List .............................................................................................................. 31
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any of its policies, procedures, or practices on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, or disability.
Americans with Disabilities Act. In compliance with the Americans With Disabilities Act, the American Board of Podiatric Surgery will
make special provisions for individuals with disabilities if written request is made no later than thirty (30) days prior to the date(s) of the
examination for which appropriate application has been made, fees paid, and credentialing completed.
ABPS 420 (April 2009) Page 2
Introduction
While obtaining board certification is an important step in the career of every podiatric surgeon, board
status is also important to hospitals and the general public. The profession of podiatric medicine has
chosen to use the certification process and its examinations component to indicate that a board-certified
podiatrist has demonstrated a level of knowledge appropriate to her/his specialty area.
This Study Guide is provided to assist candidates in their preparation for the examinations of the
American Board of Podiatric Surgery (ABPS). ABPS uses both written, oral, and Computer Based
Patient Simulation (CBPS) examinations in its assessment of candidates' knowledge of podiatric surgery.
While this guide is designed to represent the types of questions used in certification examinations, the
examination content is subject to changes that reflect current technology and medical practice.
The Examinations Committee, in consultation with the ABPS’ independent psychometric consultant,
prepares the examinations. Scoring, interpretation of scores, and determination of passing scores are the
responsibility of the Board of Directors.
Candidates are tested in specific subject areas applicable to the practice of podiatric medicine and
surgery and the perioperative care of the podiatric surgical patient. The written parts of the
examinations use objectively scored (i.e., multiple-choice, true-false, etc.) questions to test declarative
knowledge. The written examination may be adaptive or linear and will be administered by computer at
testing centers throughout the United States. The oral examinations employ face-to-face interaction
between the examiner and the candidate to test the candidate's ability to obtain and interpret clinical
information, to reason logically, and to arrive at a diagnosis and treatment plan for each patient
presentation. The CBPS examinations are computer-driven using an interactive screen to gather patient
information, order tests and procedures, make a diagnoses and administer treatments.
Before written, oral, and CBPS questions are incorporated into an examination, they are studied and
field tested for efficacy. Each question is viewed statistically immediately after the examination. Some
questions may be eliminated, or the number of acceptable responses broadened, if evidence of significant
ambiguity is discovered.
ABPS 420 (April 2009) Page 3
1. Read this Study Guide to learn as much as you can about the examination
process.
2. Get maximum benefit from the sample written questions by answering them
without looking at the answer key. Then score yourself and note any pattern
showing a weakness in any particular subject area.
3. It is imperative that candidates sitting for the CBPS examinations access the
practice questions sometime during the weeks prior to the actual examination.
Studies have shown that candidates who do not practice the CBPS examination
often do not have time to complete the actual CBPS examination. You must
become familiar with the computer screens and how they function if you expect
to efficiently move through the actual examinations.
Candidates for the CBPS examination access the practice examination through
their personal page on the ABPS web site using their user ID and passwords.
Instructions for using the practice examinations are also found on the personal
page.
4. Use references listed on the Suggested Reading List (beginning on page 31) to
review the subject areas tested in ABPS examinations.
5. While ABPS does not endorse board certification review courses, candidates have
reported that the review of subject areas and mock orals included in some review
courses have been helpful in preparing for the examinations. Board review
courses are advertised in national podiatric publications and are often associated
with the colleges of podiatric medicine and state podiatric medical associations.
6. Make time to prepare for the examinations. Cramming and intensive study may
not be helpful. Candidates who prepare by carefully reviewing are sometimes
less anxious at examination time and may perform better.
ABPS 420 (April 2009) Page 4
Written Examinations:
General Information
a. Format. The written examinations consist of objectively scored (i.e., multiple-choice, true-false,
etc.) questions administered by computer. Adaptive testing uses a large pool of questions, the
difficulty level of which was determined by the questions’ statistical performance in ABPS tests. In
an adaptive test, the computer dynamically selects questions as the candidate takes the test and
adjusts question selection based on the candidate’s demonstrated ability level. As each question is
answered, the computer assesses the response and selects the next question based on whether the
previous answer was right or wrong. Questions become progressively more or less difficult as the
program assesses and establishes the test taker’s ability level. Each question has only one best
answer. In this computer adaptive format, returning to previous questions for review and/or
changing answers is not possible. It should be noted that in an adaptive test, each question is
weighted according to its difficulty level and other statistical properties, and not by its position in the
test.
b. Subject Areas. The written examinations are based on the following subject areas applicable to the
practice of podiatric medicine and surgery:
Basic Science.
Pathoanatomy.
Pathomechanics.
Pathophysiology.
Diagnostic Evaluation/Medical Imaging.
Surgical Principles.
Surgical Procedures and Techniques.
Procedural Perioperative Management.
Surgically Relevant Medical Management.
General medical.
Anesthesia.
Emergency Medicine.
Lower extremity conservative.
Complications.
ABPS 420 (April 2009) Page 5
NOTE: The following specific conditions may be tested under each response subject area:
Deformities.
Infections.
Neoplasm/tumors/masses.
Other conditions.
Acute trauma.
c. Time considerations. Candidates with average reading skills should have ample time to complete
each written examination session. Extra time has been factored in to allow most candidates to work
steadily through the questions without running out of time.
d. Scoring. Examination results are provided as a scale score. The score is determined by the difficulty
level of the questions you are able to answer correctly. The examinations are not graded on a curve.
All examinations will be administered at computer sites throughout the United States.. Except for
the Reconstructive Rearfoot/Ankle Surgery Recertification Examination, all written examinations are
adaptive. The Reconstructive Rearfoot/Ankle Surgery Recertification Examination is a linear
examination. The Board of Directors sets passing scores.
e. Review of Scores. Each examination is scored by computer, and failed examinations are
automatically rechecked and re-scored. Therefore, once examination results are mailed to
candidates, there is no further review of scores.
f. Inclusion of Non-scored Questions. Some questions may be included in the ABPS examinations to
improve the examination system and to provide data for investigations into the examination process.
Such questions are not counted in determining your scores.
a. Content. The Foot Surgery examinations will test the diagnostic evaluation of conditions
pertaining to the foot and ankle and intraoperative/perioperative management of both forefoot
and non-reconstructive rearfoot procedures.
b. Schedule. Both the Board Qualified and the Foot Surgery Recertification examinations will
consist of 125 questions, given in one session of no more than three hours in length.
b. Schedule. The Board Qualified examination will consist of 125 questions given in one session of
no more than three hours. The Recertification examination in Reconstructive Rearfoot/Ankle
Surgery will contain 100 questions, given in one session of no more than three hours.
ABPS 420 (April 2009) Page 6
a. Content. The Foot and Ankle Surgery Self-Assessment examination will test diagnostic,
intraoperative, and perioperative management pertaining to foot and ankle procedures.
b. Schedule. The self-assessment examination in Foot and Ankle Surgery will consist of 100
questions. The examination is administered as a secured examination at compute test sites.
The oral and CBPS examinations serve to evaluate the candidate's knowledge and skill in obtaining and
interpreting clinical information as well as their ability to reason logically and to arrive at a diagnosis
and a treatment plan for a specific patient presentation.
General Information
a. Overall Process. Each candidate is assigned to a group with a unique schedule for the oral and
CBPS examination sessions. Groups gather in a central meeting area until their schedule
begins at which time they are escorted to the examination hallways in the hotel. Each oral
examination session is held in a private room where the candidate and the oral examiner
(selected by the Board of Directors) sit across from each other at a table. Candidates move
between rooms until the group schedule is complete, and then return to the central meeting
area. Every attempt is made to equalize waiting times for all groups. The CBPS questions are
administered in larger groups with each candidate having access to a laptop computer.
b. Oral Question Format. At the beginning of each question, the candidate receives a Candidate
Information Sheet describing a clinical situation. Based on the described situation, the
candidate must request additional information (such as patient history, physical examination,
radiographs, laboratory reports, etc.) in a manner simulating a real patient encounter. The
examiner will respond as a patient would and will only report, not interpret, any requested data.
The examiner will not volunteer information, so the candidate must be thorough and specific
when asking for all information needed to reach a diagnosis and treatment plan. The examiner
scores each question by noting which predetermined essential areas are satisfactorily covered
by the candidate.
ABPS 420 (April 2009) Page 7
c. Scoring. Examiners fill out scorecards for each candidate. Each oral question has predetermined
essential areas that must be adequately covered to pass the question. A passing score is set by
the Board of Directors based on psychometric evaluation of the examination.
d. Review of Scores. The scorecards of failing candidates are automatically reviewed and
rechecked for accuracy. Therefore, once examination results are mailed to candidates, there is no
further review of scores.
e. Challenge Examination. If a candidate feels that an oral examiner has been unfair, or that a
personality conflict has interfered with the examination, the candidate may request a challenge
examination by another examiner. The candidate must request the challenge immediately upon
leaving the examiner's room. The Chairman of the Examinations Committee will determine
whether a challenge examination is warranted. Specific instructions about this process will be
given to candidates during the candidate orientation session prior to the examination.
f. CBPS Examination. A CBPS examination is “Candidate-Process Driven.” You will drive the
examination by performing actions to collect and analyze information. You will select the
necessary information for problem solving. For example, if you wanted to palpate a foot mass,
you would select “palpate mass” in the “Physical Exam” section. If you wanted to aspirate the
mass, you might select “aspirate needle” in the “Diagnostic Procedures” section. If you wanted
to order a magnetic resonance image (MRI) on the foot, you would select the appropriate MRI in
the “Imaging” section. Performing a surgical technique (procedure) on the mass is done in the
“Treatment” section. Follow-up care is also selected, when appropriate, in the “Treatment”
section. By practicing with the software and the simulated case examination, you will be become
familiar with how to navigate through the simulation.
You are to complete the CBPS as best you can by taking into account the relevant aspects of
patient management, (case history, physical examination, imaging, labs, diagnostic procedures,
diagnosis, treatment; and in some cases follow-up diagnoses and treatments). While collecting
patient information, you must balance thoroughness with efficiency, as well as balancing quality
versus quantity. You will need to pace yourself and be careful to not take too much time on any
one point or decision as the CBPS is a timed examination. Field testing has demonstrated that
users who have practiced the CBPS will have ample time to complete each case. As you collect
information regarding your simulated case, keep in mind that relevancy holds the key to
successful resolution of a clinical problem. For example if you are hesitant about whether a
procedure is warranted, make the decision based on clinical indications. CBPS scoring is based
on the relevancy of the processes or actions performed.
ABPS 420 (April 2009) Page 8
a. Schedule. There are six traditional (examiner/candidate) oral questions and six Computer Based
Patient Simulation (CBPS) given in three sessions, over one and one-half days.
b. Content. The questions will test the diagnostic evaluation of conditions pertaining to the foot
and ankle, and intraoperative/perioperative management of both forefoot and non-
reconstructive rearfoot procedures.
c. Subject Areas. The Foot Surgery Certification Oral Examination (oral and CBPS) focuses on
those deformities and conditions involving the forefoot and non-reconstructive rearfoot
procedures. Questions may emphasize the following areas:
Biomechanical/Acquired deformities.
Congenital and/or pediatric deformities.
Infections.
Metabolic conditions and/or emergency medical management.
Neoplastic (primary or metastatic) conditions.
Traumatic conditions.
Surgical or traumatic complications.
d. Timing. Candidates receive six tradition oral questions divided between three sessions. Each
question lasts 14 minutes. Candidates receive six CBPS questions divided between three
sessions. Each question lasts 25 minutes.
e. Passing Score. Each year a passing score is set by the Board of Directors based on psychometric
evaluation of the examination.
a. Schedule. There are four traditional (examiner/candidate) oral questions and four Computer
Based Patient Simulation (CBPS) questions given over one day.
c. Subject Areas. The Reconstructive Rearfoot/Ankle Surgery Certification Examination (oral and
CBPS) focuses on those deformities and conditions involving the rearfoot and ankle. Questions
may emphasize the following subject areas:
Common rearfoot/ankle trauma.
Adult rearfoot/ankle deformities.
Pediatric rearfoot/ankle trauma or deformities.
Surgical or traumatic complications.
Neoplasms or infections.
d. Timing. Each oral question lasts for 20 minutes, while each CBPS lasts 25 minutes.
e. Passing Score. Each year a passing score is set by the Board of Directors based on psychometric
evaluation of the examination.
NOTE: Both the qualification examination and the certification examination in Reconstructive
Rearfoot/Ankle Surgery must be passed for Certification in Reconstructive Rearfoot/Ankle
Surgery. If a candidate sits for both the qualification and the certification examination and
passes the qualification only, he/she is Board Qualified in Reconstructive Rearfoot/Ankle
Surgery, provided the candidate has completed a PSR-24 or PSR-24+ or PM&S-36
residency (Board Qualified or Certification in Foot Surgery is a prerequisite for attaining
Board Qualified status in Reconstructive Rearfoot/Ankle).
ABPS 420 (April 2009) Page 10
Note: These questions are representative of the various formats used by the ABPS in
its examinations. These questions are not meant to be representative of the scope or
level of difficulty of any specific examination.
Answers found on page30.
1. A patient presents with painful hallux abductovalgus deformity. There is pain-free range of motion of the
first metatarsophalangeal joint (MPJ). Radiographs reveal:
2. Following removal of the proximal phalanx of the fifth digit, what is an appropriate surgical procedure for
prevention of fifth digit flailing?
3. A patient presents with an acute dorsal dislocation of the third metatarsophalangeal articulation.
Radiographs show no fractures and closed reduction is performed under local anesthetic. What is the proper
sequence of maneuvers to reduce the dislocated digit?
4. A patient with a history of true penicillin allergy is scheduled for a total joint implant. Antibiotic prophylaxis
would best be served with which of the following medications?
A. piperacillin (Pipracil).
B. cephalothin (Keflin).
C. ciprofloxacin (Cipro).
ABPS 420 (April 2009) Page 11
D. vancomycin (Vancocin).
5. A 60-year-old male suddenly begins complaining of a "crushing" sensation in his chest. The episode lasts
very briefly then subsides. It begins again and is more intense. What should you administer to this patient?
6. Radiographs taken of a 25-year-old male with a painful bunion indicate the following:
7. What procedure should be performed on a patient with a 25 degree metatarsus primus adductus angle and a
severe first ray hypermobility?
A. Lapidus.
B. lateral closing wedge osteotomy.
C. crescentic osteotomy.
D. Logroscino.
8. A 32-year-old woman has a history of a slowly enlarging, subcutaneous, multinodular, painless mass beneath
the flexor surface of the great toe. There is radiographic evidence of marginal bone erosion. What is the
most likely diagnosis?
A. glomus tumor.
B. enchondroma.
C. giant cell tumor of the tendon sheath.
D. ganglion.
9. What would a dorsoplantar radiograph of the foot with a plantarflexed first ray taken in the angle and base of
gait show the position of the hallucal sesamoids to be?
10. A patient presents with an inversion ankle sprain. Stress inversion radiographs reveal a 15 degree difference
between the symptomatic and asymptomatic ankle. A peroneal tenogram reveals contrast media within the
ankle joint and extravasation anterior, lateral, and distal to the lateral malleolus. These findings are
consistent with rupture of the:
11. A 65-year-old female diabetic on insulin therapy arrives at the surgeon’s office. While waiting she begins
to feel faint and loses consciousness. What would be the treatment of choice?
12. A 25-year-old female has unremitting numbness in the lesser digits. The pain becomes more severe while
walking and is difficult to relieve. Over the past several months, the pain has been sharp with radiating
sensation in the arch. What is the most likely diagnosis?
13. What is an alternate approach to hallux limitus that does not require a joint destructive procedure? (note
negative format)
14. A plantar fibroma is removed. Two months later the wound has healed, but the three medial digits begin to
hyperextend at the metatarsophalangeal joints (MPJ). A possible cause would be the severance of which of
the following nerves or muscles?
15. A 30-year-old male complains of a painful right ankle after sustaining a forced plantarflexion injury.
Plantarflexion of the foot and dorsiflexion of the hallux greatly exacerbate the symptoms. What is the most
probable diagnosis?
16. Three weeks following excision of a neuroma in the third intermetatarsal space, the third digit drifts into an
adducted position. The most probable cause would be severance of which of the following anatomical
features?
17. In using a Z-plasty to correct a skin contracture, what should the surgeon do?
18. A 36-year-old female has a history of recurrent masses in the medial longitudinal arch of the right foot.
What is the most likely primary lesion of the foot causing metastasis to the lung?
A. melanoma.
B. rhabdomyosarcoma.
C. fibrosarcoma.
D. neurofibromatosis.
19. A 15-year-old female sustained an injury resulting in a Salter-Harris type V epiphyseal fracture of the first
metatarsal base. What should initial treatment include?
A. cast immobilization.
B. open reduction and ASIF fixation.
C. soft cast and wooden shoe.
D. no treatment is necessary.
20. Which of the following procedures is not an appropriate treatment of a dog bite on the foot which occurred
eight hours ago? (note negative format)
21. Keratoses beneath the second metatarsal head are frequently observed in association with hallux valgus
deformities. What is the most common cause of these keratoses?
22. A patient has a history of hypertension which is controlled by furosemide (Lasix) 40 mg. (q.d.). What is the
most frequent electrolyte disturbance observed in this type of patient?
A. hypokalemia.
B. hyponatremia.
C. hyperkalemia.
D. hypernatremia.
A. synovioma.
B. histiocytoma.
C. villonodular synovitis.
D. neurilemmoma.
24. What is the condition that must be present before attempting an extensor suspension (Jones) procedure of
the first metatarsal?
A. contracted hallux.
B. flexible plantarflexed first metatarsal.
C. forefoot supinatus that is reducible by manual pressure.
D. adequate interphalangeal joint motion.
25. A 25-year-old female sustained an inversion ankle sprain 24 hours ago. The area is severely edematous and
ecchymotic. Diagnostic tests reveal rupture of the lateral collateral ligaments. What should the treatment
consist of at this time?
26. To derotate an adductovarus fifth digit, how is the lenticular incision made?
27. A 40-year-old female presents with a ganglion at the base of the first metatarsal medially. After surgical
excision of the ganglion, the patient complains of anesthesia along the medial aspect of the foot, up to the
first metatarsal head. Which peripheral nerve was involved?
A. medial plantar.
B. lateral plantar.
C. saphenous.
D. common peroneal.
28. What coalition does the Harris-Beath view (axial view of the calcaneus) best demonstrate?
A. talonavicular coalition.
B. calcaneonavicular coalition.
C. talocalcaneal coalition.
D. calcaneocuboid coalition.
29. When performing a Lapidus procedure for hallux abductovalgus, what structure should be avoided when
exposing the first metatarsocuneiform articulation?
30. A 41-year-old female has a unilateral flatfoot of six-months duration. The patient relates a history of
multiple cortisone injections by another doctor for "os tibial externum." What is the most likely cause of
this patient's condition?
31. A 60-year-old male develops an anaphylactic reaction secondary to a drug injection. Epinephrine
(Adrenalin) 0.5 cc. is injected intramuscularly (I.M.) immediately. What is the purpose of administering
this drug in this situation?
32. What is most often the cause of anterior process fractures of the calcaneus?
A. synovial pseudoarthrosis.
B. hypertrophic nonunion.
C. fibrous nonunion.
D. fibrous malunion.
34. Three months after resecting a ganglion from the dorsum of the midfoot, a patient presents complaining of
persistent numbness along the adjacent sides of the second and third digits. The most likely diagnosis is
iatrogenic severance of which nerve?
A. saphenous.
B. deep peroneal.
C. lateral dorsal cutaneous.
D. medial dorsal cutaneous.
35. What procedure most effectively transfers the action of the flexor digitorum longus to the
metatarsophalangeal joint (MPJ) of the lesser digit?
37. In the early stages of superficial spreading malignant melanoma, which of the following conditions is not
present? (note negative format)
A. change in size.
B. pain and bleeding.
C. variation in color.
D. irregular borders.
38. On a peripheral blood smear stained with hematoxylin and eosin, the presence of "rosettes" (clusters of
polynuclear leukocytes surrounding an extracellular hematoxylin body) most likely indicates which of the
following systemic disorders?
A. rheumatoid arthritis.
B. lupus erythematosus.
C. hematogenous infection.
D. thrombocytopenic purpura.
ABPS 420 (April 2009) Page 17
39. Shortly after general anesthesia, a patient is nauseous and treatment is required. Which of the following
would be the most appropriate treatment?
40. A patient presents with a brachymetatarsia on the fourth metatarsal right foot. What is the limiting factor
when considering the maximum length that may be added to the metatarsal?
A. tendon length.
B. nerve length.
C. adjacent metatarsal length.
D. vascular length.
41. The dynamic compression plate is most suitable as a solitary fixation device for which of the following
fractures?
A. oblique.
B. spiral.
C. transverse.
D. compression.
43. A 30-year-old female complains of a painful, six-month-old lesion on the bottom of her foot. Examination
shows a hyperkeratotic lesion beneath the third metatarsal head without a central nucleated core. The third
digit is contracted at the proximal interphalangeal joint and is nonreducible. The metatarsal parabola is
normal. What is the procedure of choice?
44. A patient presents eight weeks after sustaining a fracture through the neck of the talus. What finding is a
prognostic indicator that the vascular supply is intact?
45. Which procedure for hallux abductovalgus has the least effect on growth centers in a young child? (note
negative format)
A. Austin.
B. opening abductory wedge.
C. Lapidus.
D. closing abductory wedge.
46. Which complication is not associated with the Keller bunionectomy? (note negative format)
48. Twenty-one hours after an Austin bunionectomy under general anesthesia, the patient develops a
temperature of 102 degrees Fahrenheit. What is the most likely cause?
A. pulmonary atelectasis.
B. postoperative wound infection.
C. superficial thrombophlebitis.
D. constipation.
49. The preoperative complete blood count (CBC) on a 45-year-old male reveals the following:
A. myelofibrosis.
B. polycythemia vera.
C. thrombocythemia.
D. leukemia.
50. Bence-Jones proteinuria is most commonly associated with which of the following diseases?
A. lymphoma.
B. systemic lupus erythematosus.
C. scleroderma.
D. multiple myeloma.
ABPS 420 (April 2009) Page 19
51. What is the local anesthetic that should be used on a patient with cirrhosis of the liver?
A. lidocaine (Xylocaine).
B. mepivacaine (Carbocaine).
C. procaine (Novocain).
D. bupivacaine (Marcaine).
52. The most severe nerve injury is complete disruption of the axon, Schwann cell, and endoneurial tubes with
varying disruption of the perineurium and epineurium. What is the term used to designate this condition?
A. neuropraxia.
B. axonotmesis.
C. neurotmesis.
D. neuritis.
53. The most probable etiology of heloma molle of the fourth interdigital space is pressure between which of
the following structures?
A. head of the fifth proximal phalanx and the base of the fourth proximal phalanx.
B. head of the fourth proximal phalanx and the base of the fifth proximal phalanx.
C. head of the fourth metatarsal and the base of the fifth proximal phalanx.
D. head of the fifth metatarsal and the base of the fourth proximal phalanx.
54. For the traditional Austin procedure to be modified to produce both shortening and plantarflexion of the
capital fragment, how must the osteotomy be angulated?
56. A 50-year-old nondiabetic male cigarette smoker presents with one block right calf claudication. Bilateral
femoral pulses are palpable with no bruits. The left pedal pulse is present, but the right popliteal and pedal
pulses are absent. What is the most likely level of arterial occlusion?
A. abdominal aorta.
B. right common iliac artery.
C. right popliteal artery.
D. right superficial femoral artery.
ABPS 420 (April 2009) Page 20
57. In performing a McBride bunionectomy under local anesthesia, which of the following nerves should not be
anesthetized? (note negative format)
A. saphenous.
B. deep peroneal.
C. medial dorsal cutaneous.
D. intermediate dorsal cutaneous.
58. Charcot joints are not commonly associated with which disease? (note negative format)
A. syringomyelia.
B. gout.
C. diabetes mellitus.
D. alcoholism.
59. A 43-year-old male with Addison's disease of 20 years duration is on a maintenance dose of 30 mg.
hydrocortisone per day. Prior to surgery, how should this patient be treated?
60. A two-and-one-half-year-old has been under treatment for the past year for a unilateral metatarsus adductus.
The most recent treatment included a series of eight weekly casts with manipulation. Radiographs now
show a metatarsus adductus angle of 25 degrees. What is the indicated treatment?
61. A 45-year-old male sustains a crushing-type injury to the left foot. Radiographs are negative for fracture
and dislocation. Which of the following tests is the most helpful in determining skin flap viability?
62. Which radiographic finding is most important in evaluating placement of an osteotomy for correction of
hallux valgus?
63. Surgical excision of the hallucal sesamoids would most directly result in what condition?
A. hallux limitus.
B. lack of propulsive stability of the hallux.
C. inability of the first ray to dorsiflex.
D. inability of the forefoot to evert.
64. A man is coughing and wheezing from a foreign body lodged in his airway. What should be done?
A. superficial spreading.
B. nodular.
C. lentigo malignant.
D. acral lentiginous.
66. A 35-year-old male presents with a hallux abductovalgus deformity of the left foot. Radiographs reveal the
following:
67. A 31-year-old female presents with a complaint of pain of the dorsal distal aspect of the hallux.
Radiographs reveal a radiolucent area at the distal phalanx with surrounding sclerosis. There is no sign of
infection, no sinus tract, and no edema. What is the clinical diagnosis?
A. subungual exostosis.
B. enchondroma.
C. osteoid osteoma.
D. osteochondroma.
E. aneurysmal bone cyst.
ABPS 420 (April 2009) Page 22
68. Excision of a second intermetatarsal neuroma results in an abducted third digit. Damage to which intrinsic
muscles would produce this deformity?
A. developmental atrophic.
B. developmental hypertrophic.
C. coalescence atrophic.
D. coalescence hypertrophic.
70. Shown below is a radiograph of a 14-year-old male who fell six feet and presented to the emergency
department two hours after the injury. Which of the following diagnostic tests is the most important to
order?
71. The radiograph shown below was taken 29 days postoperatively. Which treatment is appropriate?
72. A 20-year-old male sustains his first ankle injury which is diagnosed as a rupture of the lateral collateral
ligaments of the ankle. What is the most appropriate treatment plan?
73. A 27-year-old man develops a deep wound infection three weeks following open reduction and internal
fixation of a pilon ankle fracture with interfragmental screws and a medial buttress plate. The wound is
debrided and the patient is placed on intravenous (I.V.) antibiotics. What should be done with the
hardware?
74. Why is the trephine technique to fuse the posterior facet during a triple arthrodesis contraindicated in a
cavus foot? (note negative format)
75. What is a contraindication to performing a Young tenosuspension flatfoot procedure? (note negative
format)
A. talonavicular fault.
B. patient age 12.
C. rigid deformity.
D. dorsiflexed first metatarsal.
76. How is chronic peroneus longus rupture resulting in a dorsiflexed and inverted foot best treated?
77. The advancement of the Achilles tendon more anteriorly toward the posterior aspect of the subtalar joint on
the dorsum of the calcaneus is useful in treating which of the following conditions?
A. spastic equinus.
B. spastic heel varus.
C. talipes calcaneus deformity.
D. peroneal spastic flatfoot.
78. Axial load forces creating instability in diaphyseal fibular and tibial fracture surfaces may be dissipated by
the use of which of the following mechanisms?
A. buttress plate.
B. neutralization plate.
C. tension band cerclage wiring.
D. double compression plate.
79. In a patient with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (peroneal muscular atrophy) and weak anterior group
muscles, which of the following tendons should be transferred to improve foot function?
A. posterior tibial.
B. flexor digitorum longus.
C. anterior tibial.
D. flexor hallucis longus.
80. What is the most appropriate fixation technique for a small, displaced avulsion fracture of the lateral
malleolus?
A. tension band.
B. single lag screw.
C. single lag screw and a one-third tubular plate.
D. dynamic compression plate.
81. What is the muscle that is most commonly transferred through the interosseous membrane to function as a
dorsiflexor of the foot?
A. posterior tibial.
B. anterior tibial.
C. peroneus longus.
D. flexor digitorum longus.
82. A 21- year- old female presents with pain and swelling to the right ankle. The patient states that last week
she jumped from a high fence on to uneven ground, twisted her foot and fell forward. Assuming that the
foot was inverted and then forced into dorsiflexion, this type of trauma would suggest what type of
frequently missed fracture?
83. In performing a pantalar arthrodesis, which materials would be least effective in compression fixation of the
ankle and subtalar joint? (note negative format)
A. external fixator.
B. intramedullary nail.
C. large cancellous screws crossing both joints.
D. crossed Steinman pins.
84. A 30-year-old male, who had a resection of a calcaneonavicular bar at age 11, exhibits fixed valgus
deformity of his foot. Radiographs demonstrate the recurrence of a calcaneonavicular coalition with
subtalar joint degeneration and talar beaking. What is the appropriate surgical treatment?
85. For a severe rigid and painful talipes equinovarus in an adult, what primary surgical approach is
contraindicated? (note negative format)
86. In performing a posteromedial release for a congenital clubfoot deformity, what is the most important joint
to release to prevent recurrence of the deformity?
A. ankle.
B. subtalar.
C. talonavicular.
D. calcaneocuboid.
87. In a six-month-old child, aggressive casting for the equinus component of a clubfoot deformity may result in
which of the following conditions?
88. What condition is a contraindication in performing a lateral subtalar arthroereisis? (note negative format)
89. What is the ankle fusion technique that is indicated in a child to preserve the potential for growth of the
distal tibial and fibular physis?
A. Blair fusion.
B. transfibular fusion.
C. distraction-compression fusion.
D. Charnley compression fusion.
90. What is the first step in the open reduction and internal fixation of an ankle pilon fracture?
91. Hypertrophy of synovial villi with impingement between capsule and joint surfaces and resultant thickening
of the tissue may lead to which of the following pathological intra-articular structures encountered in ankle
arthroscopy?
93. For a one-year-old patient with calcaneal valgus, what is an acceptable treatment plan?
A. manipulation only.
B. manipulation with serial casting.
C. soft-tissue release.
D. arthroereisis.
E. triple arthrodesis at skeletal maturity.
94. In the treatment of the equinovarus foot as described by Ponsetti, what is the last stage to be corrected by
casting?
A. varus component.
B. forefoot adductus component.
C. supination at the subtalar joint component.
D. equinus deformity.
ABPS 420 (April 2009) Page 29
95. What is the primary indication for the Evans calcaneal osteotomy with insertion of a bone graft?
96. A 16-year-old male with peroneal spastic flatfoot has 8 degrees tibia varum. What is the proper position of
the calcaneus to the tibia for triple arthrodesis?
A. 0 degrees.
B. 2 degrees inverted.
C. 6 degrees everted.
D. 10 degrees everted.
97. A 52-year-old female presents with a unilateral dropfoot condition. Following electromyelography, nerve
conduction studies and full neurological work-up the etiology remains obscure. Physical examination notes
loss of the anterior tibial and long extensors, and weakness of the posterior tibial, peroneal, and triceps. A
flaccid pes valgus dropfoot gait is noted. What is the most appropriate method of treatment?
A. subtalar fusion.
B. triple arthrodesis.
C. ankle fusion.
D. pantalar fusion.
98. Which of the following techniques is not appropriate fixation for a Salter-Harris type III fracture of the
distal tibial physis? (note negative format)
A. two smooth Kirschner wires through the fragment, across the physis, and into the metaphysis.
B. one cancellous screw through the fragment and into the epiphysis.
C. tension band wiring using two Kirschner wires through the fragment, across the physis, and into
the metaphysis.
D. one cancellous screw and one Kirschner wire through the fragment and into the epiphysis.
99. Which radiographic sign is not consistent with congenital convex pes planovalgus? (note negative format)
100.What is an indication for primary fusion of the subtalar joint following a calcaneal fracture?
SUGGESTED READING
The following references are a sampling of books from which readings may be helpful in preparation for ABPS written and
oral examinations. The list is suggested only, and may not be exhaustive for any particular examination.
Abramson, C. (ed.): Infectious Diseases of the Lower Extremities. Philadelphia, Williams & Wilkins, 1991. *
Adelaar, R.S.: Disorders of the Great Toe. Rosemont, IL, AAOS, 1997.
Adelaar, R.S.: Complex Foot and Ankle Trauma. Philadelphia, Lippincott, 1999.
Alexander, I.: The Foot: Examination, Diagnosis and Conservative Care, 2nd ed. New York, Churchill Livingstone, 1996.
Andreoli, T.E. (ed.): Cecil Essentials of Medicine, 5th ed. Philadelphia, Saunders, 2000.
Baxter, D.E.: Foot and Ankle in Sport. St. Louis, Mosby, 1995.
Berquist, T.H. (ed.): Radiology of the Foot and Ankle, 2nd ed. New York, Raven Press, 2000.
Birrer, R.B.: Common Foot Problems in Primary Care, 2nd ed.. St. Louis, Mosby, 1998.
Bouysset, M. (ed.): Bone and Joint Disorders of the Foot and Ankle: a Rheumatological Approach. New York, Springer-
Verlag, 1998.
Butterworth, R.: Color Atlas and Text of Forefoot Surgery. St. Louis, Mosby, 1992.
Cailliet, R.: Foot and Ankle Pain, 3rd ed. Philadelphia, Davis, 1997.
Canale, S.T.: Campbell’s Operative Orthopaedics, 9th ed. St. Louis, Mosby, 1997.
Carrel, J.M. (ed.): Complications in Foot and Ankle Surgery, 3rd ed. Baltimore, Williams & Wilkins, 1992. *
Cole, D.R. and DeLauro, T.M. (ed.): Neoplasms of the Foot and Leg. Baltimore, Williams & Wilkins, 1990. *
Condon, R. (ed.): Manual of Surgical Therapeutics, 9th ed. Boston, Little-Brown Co., 1996.
Coughlin, M.J. (ed.): Surgery of the Foot and Ankle, 7th ed. St. Louis, Mosby, 1999.
Coussons, T.R. (ed.): Manual of Medical Care of the Surgical Patient, 4th ed. Boston, Little-Brown Co., 1990. *
Crim, J.: Imaging of the Foot and Ankle. Philadelphia, Lippincott, 1996.
Deutsch, A.L. (ed.): MRI of the Foot and Ankle. New York, Raven Press, 1992.
DeValentine, S.J. (ed.): Foot and Ankle Disorders in Children. New York, Churchill Livingstone, 1991. *
Dockery, G.L.: Color Atlas of Foot and Ankle Dermatology. Philadelphia, Lippincott, 1999.
Dockery, G.L.: Cutaneous Disorders of the Lower Extremity. Philadelphia, Saunders, 1997.
* Out of print
Compiled: September 2000
ABPS 420 (April 2009) Page 32
Downey, M.S. and Malay, D.S.: Manual of Digital Surgery of the Foot. New York, Churchill Livingstone, 1991. *
Draves, D.J.: Anatomy of the Lower Extremity. Baltimore, Williams & Wilkins, 1986. *
Drennan, J.C. (ed.): The Child's Foot and Ankle. New York, Raven Press, 1992.
Falanga, V.: Leg & Foot Ulcers: a Clinician’s Guide. St. Louis, Mosby, 1995. *
Ferkel, R.D.: Arthroscopic Surgery: the Foot and Ankle. Philadelphia, Lippincott, 1996.
Forrester, D.M., et al.: Imaging of the Foot and Ankle. Rockville, Aspen Publ., 1988. *
Frykberg, R.G. (ed.): The High Risk Foot in Diabetes Mellitus. New York, Churchill Livingstone, 1991. *
Gerbert, J. (ed.): Textbook of Bunion Surgery, 2nd ed. Mt. Kisco, NY, Futura Publ. Co., 1991. *
Gilman, A.G.: Goodman and Gilman's Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, 9th ed. New York, Macmillan and Co.,
1996.
Goldman, D. (ed.): Perioperative Medicine: Medical Care of the Surgical Patient, 2nd ed. New York, McGraw-Hill, 1994.
Greenfield, G.: Radiology of Bone Diseases, 5th ed. Philadelphia, Lippincott, 1990.
Guhl, J.F. (ed.): Foot and Ankle Arthroscopy, 2nd ed. . Thorofare, NJ, Slack Inc, 1993. *
Hansen, S.: Functional Reconstruction of the Foot and Ankle. Philadelphia, Lippincott, 2000.
Harkless, L.B.: Foot and Ankle Secrets. Philadelphia, Hanley & Belfus, 1997.
Harkless, L.B. and Krych, S.M. (eds.): Handbook of Common Foot Problems. New York, Churchill Livingstone, 1990. *
Heim, U.: Internal Fixation of Small Fractures. New York, Springer-Verlag, 1988.
Helal, B. (ed.): Surgery of Disorders of the Foot and Ankle. Philadelphia, Lippincott, 1996.
Hetherington, V.J. (ed.): Hallux Valgus and Forefoot Surgery. New York, Churchill Livingstone, 1994. *
Holmes, G.B. (ed.): Surgical Approaches to the Foot and Ankle. New York, McGraw-Hill, 1994.
Jahss, M.H.: Disorders of the Foot and Ankle, 3 Vols., 2nd ed. Philadelphia, Saunders, 1991.
Jay, R.M. (ed.): Current Therapy in Podiatric Surgery. Philadelphia, B.C. Decker, Inc., 1989. *
Jay, R.M. (ed.): Pediatric Foot and Ankle Surgery. Philadelphia, Saunders, 1999.
Johnson, K.A. (ed.): Foot and Ankle. New York, Raven Press, 1994.
Johnson, K.A.: Surgery of the Foot and Ankle. New York, Raven Press, 1989.
Joseph, W. S.: Handbook of Lower Extremity Infections. New York, Churchill Livingstone, 1990.
Kang, H.S. and Resnick, D.: MRI of the Extremities: An Anatomic Atlas. Philadelphia, Saunders, 1990.
* Out of print
Compiled: September 2000
ABPS 420 (April 2009) Page 33
Katzung, B.G.: Basic and Clinical Pharmacology, 7th ed. Stamford, CT, Appleton & Lange, 1998.
Kelikian, A.S. (ed.): Operative Treatment of the Foot and Ankle. Stamford, CT.: Appleton & Lange, 1999.
Klenerman, L.: Foot and Its Disorders, 3rd ed. Oxford, Blackwell, 1991.
Kominsky, S.J. (ed.): Advances in Podiatric Medicine & Surgery. St. Louis, Mosby, 1995-96. 3 Volumes *
Kominsky, S.J. (ed.): Medical and Surgical Management of the Diabetic Foot. St. Louis, Mosby, 1994.
Kozak, G.P. (ed.): Management of Diabetic Foot Problems, 2nd ed. Philadelphia, Saunders, 1995. *
Lankhorst, G.J. (ed.): Management of Ankle Injuries. Kirtland, WA, Hogrefe & Huber Publ., 1991. *
Levy, L.A. and Hetherington, V.J. (eds.): Principles and Practice of Podiatric Medicine. New York, Churchill Livingstone,
1989. *
Longnecker, D.E., et al. (eds.): Dripps’ Introduction to Anesthesia, 9th ed. Philadelphia, Saunders, 1997.
Luces, J.R. (ed.): Color Atlas of Foot Disorders. Mt. Kisco, NY, Futura Publ. Co., 1990. *
Lundeen, R.O.: Manual of Ankle and Foot Arthroscopy. New York, Churchill Livingstone, 1992. *
Lutter, L.D.: Atlas of Adult Foot and Ankle Surgery. St. Louis, Mosby, 1997.
Mandel, S. (ed.): Handbook of Lower Extremity Neurology. New York, Churchill Livingstone, 2000.
Marcinko, D.E. (ed.): Comprehensive Textbook of Hallux Abducto Valgus Reconstruction. St. Louis, Mosby, 1992. *
Marcinko, D.E.: Infection of the Foot: Diagnosis, Management and Prevention. St. Louis, Mosby, 1998.
Marcinko, D.E. (ed.): Medical and Surgical Therapeutics of the Foot and Ankle. Baltimore, Williams & Wilkins, 1992. *
Masquelet, A.C. (ed.): Atlas of Surgical Exposures of the Lower Extremity. Philadelphia, Lippincott, 1993.
Mayer, D.D., et al.: Foot and Ankle: a Sectional Imaging Atlas. Philadelphia, Saunders, 1993.
McGlamry, E.D. (ed.): Comprehensive Textbook of Foot Surgery. 2 Vols., 2nd ed. Baltimore, Williams & Wilkins, 1992.
McMinn, R.M.H.: Color Atlas of Foot and Ankle Anatomy, 2nd ed. St. Louis, Mosby, 1996.
Merriman, L. (ed.): Assessment of the Lower Limb. New York, Churchill Livingstone, 1995.
Mizel, M.S.: Orthopedic Knowledge Update: Foot and Ankle, 2nd ed. Rosemont, IL, AAOS, 1998.
Morrissy, R.T. (ed.): Lovell and Winter's Pediatric Orthopedics, 2 vols., 4th ed. Philadelphia, Lippincott, 1996.
Muller, M.E. (ed.): Manual of Internal Fixation, Techniques Recommended by the AO-ASIF Group, 3rd ed. New York,
Springer-Verlag, 1991. *
* Out of print
Compiled: September 2000
ABPS 420 (April 2009) Page 34
Myerson, M. (ed.): Current Therapy in Foot and Ankle Surgery. St. Louis, Mosby, 1993. *
Myerson, M.S. (ed.): Foot and Ankle Disorders. Philadelphia, Saunders. 2000
Negus, D.: Leg Ulcers: A Practical Approach to Management, 2nd ed. Newton, MA., Butterworth, 1995.
Oestreich, A.E.: How to Measure Angles from Foot Radiographs. New York, Springer-Verlag, 1990. *
Oloff, L.M. (ed.): Musculoskeletal Disorders of the Lower Extremity. Philadelphia, Saunders, 1994.
Omer, G.E. (ed.): Management of Peripheral Nerve Problems, 2nd ed. Philadelphia, Saunders, 1994.
Peacock, E.E., Jr.: Wound Repair, 3rd ed. Philadelphia, Saunders, 1984. *
Pfeffer, G.B. and Frey, C.C. (eds.): Current Practice in Foot and Ankle Surgery. New York, McGraw-Hill.
Volume 1: 1993 *, Volume 2: 1994.
Ranawat, C.S. (ed.): Disorders of the Heel, Rearfoot, and Ankle. New York, Churchill Livingstone, 1999.
Resnick, D.: Bone and Joint Imaging, 2nd ed. Philadelphia, Saunders, 1996.
Root, N.L.: Normal and Abnormal Function of the Foot. Los Angeles, Clinical Biomechanics Corp., 1977.
Salter, R.: Textbook of Disorders and Injuries of the Musculoskeletal System, 3rd ed. Baltimore, Williams & Wilkins, 1998.
Sammarco, G.J. (ed.): Foot and Ankle Manual, 2nd ed. Philadelphia, Lea & Febiger, 1998.
Sammarco, G.J. (ed.): Rehabilitation of the Foot and Ankle. St. Louis, Mosby, 1995.
Sarrafian, S.K.: Anatomy of the Foot and Ankle, 2nd ed. Philadelphia, Lippincott, 1993. *
Schwartz, S. (ed.): Principles of Surgery, 7th ed. New York, McGraw-Hill, 1999.
Scurran, B.L. (ed.): Foot and Ankle Trauma, 2nd ed. New York, Churchill Livingstone, 1995.
Shereff, M.J.: Atlas of Foot and Ankle Surgery. Philadelphia, Saunders, 1993.
Simons, G.W. (ed.): Clubfoot: the Present and a View of the Future. New York, Springer-Verlag, 1994. *
Stiehl, J.B. (ed.): Inman's Joints of the Ankle. Baltimore, Williams & Wilkins, 1991. *
Tachdjian, M.O.: Clinical Pediatric Orthopedics. Stamford, CT, Appleton & Lange, 1997.
Tierney, L.M. (ed.): Current Medical Diagnosis and Treatment, 40th ed. Norwalk, Appleton & Lange, 2001.
* Out of print
Compiled: September 2000
ABPS 420 (April 2009) Page 35
Tollafield, D.R. (ed.): Clinical Skills in Treating the Foot. New York, Churchill Livingstone, 1997.
Valmassy, R. L. (ed.): Clinical Biomechanics of the Lower Extremities. St. Louis, Mosby, 1995.
Witkowski, J.: Color Atlas of Cutaneous Disorders of the Lower Extremities. New York, Igaku-Shoin, 1993. *
Weinstein, S.L. (ed.): Turek's Orthopedics, 2 vols., 5th ed. Philadelphia, Lippincott, 1994.
Williams, P.L. (ed.): Gray's Anatomy, 38th ed.. New York, Churchill Livingstone, 1995.
Wulker, N. An Atlas of Foot and Ankle Surgery. St. Louis, Mosby, 1998.
Young, J.R. (ed.): Peripheral Vascular Diseases, 2nd ed. St. Louis, Mosby, 1996.
Zier, B.G. (ed.): Essentials of Internal Medicine in Clinical Podiatry. Philadelphia, Saunders, 1990. *
* Out of print
Compiled: September 2000
NATIONAL BOARD
OF
PODIATRIC MEDICAL EXAMINERS
PART II
Clinical Science Examination
PRACTICE TEST 1
The Part II Practice Tests are representative of the content covered in the Part II Examination. They
include question formats found in the actual examination. They also include questions of varying
difficulty. A candidate’s performance on a Practice Test does not guarantee similar performance on
the actual examination.
60 questions
Directions for questions 1-56: These questions are followed by four suggested answers. Select the one answer that
is best in each case.
NOTE: Throughout this test, the term “medial oblique foot” refers to a nonweightbearing medial oblique position
in which the film is flat on the orthoposer, the medial side of the foot is closest to the film and the sole forms a 45°
angulation with the film, and the central beam is 90° to the film (the tubehead is angulated 0°). The converse is true
for the term “lateral oblique.”
1. A 6-month-old child exhibits a limitation of hip 4. Which of the following is the most appropriate
abduction and an increase in thigh folds on the antibiotic therapy for pseudomembranous colitis?
left side. The most likely diagnosis is
(A) Vancomycin
(A) cerebral palsy (B) Gentamicin
(B) transient synovitis of the left hip (C) Ciprofloxacin
(C) a congenitally dislocated left hip (D) Ticarcillin
(D) a fracture of the left femur
5. Vertical talus presents with which of the
2. In a podiatric physician’s office, the best method following x-ray changes?
to prevent HIV infection and/or hepatitis B
(A) Dorsiflexed talus
infection is to use
(B) Dislocated navicular
(A) an eyewash station (C) Increased first metatarsal declination angle
(B) thorough handwashing (D) High calcaneal inclination angle
(C) appropriate handling and disposal of sharps
(D) appropriate handling and disposal of waste 6. Which of the following is a true statement about a
fracture of the styloid process of the fifth
3. Following fifth-toe surgery, a patient reports that metatarsal?
the toe is unstable and feels “floppy.” X-rays
(A) It is also known as a Jones fracture.
reveal loss of bone mass including the distal
(B) The mechanism of injury usually involves a
two-thirds of the proximal phalanx and most of
strong force applied by the fibularis
the middle phalanx. A flail toe condition is
(peroneus) brevis.
diagnosed. The best procedure for this patient
(C) It needs to be treated surgically due to an
would be
increased likelihood of nonunion.
(A) a distal Syme's amputation (D) Treatment may include immobilization, with
(B) amputation of the metatarsophalangeal joint the foot in an inverted position.
(C) removal of the base of the proximal phalanx
(D) surgical syndactylization of the fourth and 7. The most important factor for the treatment of a
fifth toes navicular stress fracture involves early
(A) short leg casting
(B) internal fixation
(C) nonweightbearing
(D) use of electrical stimulation
Practice Test 1 4
8. Which of the following is a radiographic 14. Which of the following impressions from an MRI
hallmark of dominant sagittal plane pronatory would be most consistent with a diagnosis of
compensation? osteomyelitis of the first metatarsal?
(A) Navicular bulge (A) A decreased signal intensity in a
(B) Increased cuboid abduction angle T1-weighted image
(C) Decreased calcaneal inclination angle (B) An increased signal intensity in a
(D) Decreased talar declination angle T2-weighted image
(C) A decreased signal intensity in a
9. A 4-year-old girl who has asthma presents with a T2-weighted image
persistent, pruritic, vesiculating, erythematous (D) A signal void in a T1-weighted image
eruption of both feet. Which of the following is
the most likely diagnosis? 15. The most common mechanism of ankle fracture
is
(A) Psoriasis
(B) Herpes simplex virus infection (A) supination adduction
(C) Atopic dermatitis (B) supination external rotation
(D) Lichen planus (C) pronation external rotation
(D) pronation abduction
10. All of the following conditions contribute to
hallux varus deformity EXCEPT 16. A 62-year-old obese patient has been hospitalized
for the treatment of an infected foot ulcer. The
(A) a negative intermetatarsal angle
patient is placed on subcutaneous heparin for
(B) excision of the fibular sesamoid
prophylaxis against deep vein thrombosis. Which
(C) aggressive medial capsulorrhaphy
of the following laboratory findings would
(D) lengthening of the extensor tendon
indicate effective heparin management?
11. The scope of practice of podiatric medicine is (A) Prothrombin time (PT) = 14.0 sec
primarily determined by (B) Partial thromboplastin time
(PTT) = 60.0 sec
(A) act of Congress
(C) Bleeding time = 5 min
(B) state law
(D) Platelet count = 150,000/cu mm
(C) the American Podiatric Medical Association
(D) the U.S. Department of Health and Human
17. A patient complains of pain in the posterior
Services
aspect of the ankle with palpation. Pain is
particularly aggravated by dorsiflexion and
12. Which of the following is the most sensitive
plantarflexion of the hallux. Which of the
blood test for neuromuscular disorders?
following would be the best radiographic view to
(A) Creatine phosphokinase confirm the diagnosis?
(B) Lactate dehydrogenase
(A) An anteroposterior view of the affected ankle
(C) Alkaline phosphatase
(B) A medial oblique view of the foot
(D) Acid phosphatase
(C) A lateral view of the foot and ankle
(D) A Harris-Beath (calcaneal axial) view
13. Proprioception and vibratory sensations are
mediated by which of the following pathways?
(A) Posterior column
(B) Corticospinal tract
(C) Extrapyramidal tract
(D) Lateral spinothalamic tract
5 Practice Test 1
18. In the application of a short leg cast, the main 21. An individual with bronchial asthma triggered by
advantage of plaster of Paris over synthetic an allergic reaction is likely to have elevated
materials is that plaster of Paris is more
(A) monocytes in the WBC differential
(A) durable (B) lymphocytes in the WBC differential
(B) moldable (C) eosinophils in the WBC differential
(C) porous (D) sodium in the serum chemistry
(D) radiolucent
22. Which of the following is a true statement about
19. Which of the following is an appropriate rigid forefoot valgus?
cleansing agent for a surgeon who is allergic to
(A) It is the cause of medial ankle sprains.
iodine?
(B) It is compensated for by subtalar joint
(A) Acetic acid supination.
(B) Hexachlorophene (C) It is confirmed by a positive anterior drawer
(C) Dakin’s solution sign.
(D) Povidone-iodine (D) It can be identified on a weightbearing x-ray
if the talocalcaneal angle is increased.
20. A doctor may NOT refuse to treat a prospective
patient because the patient
(A) has AIDS
(B) is unable to pay the doctor
(C) appears to be under the influence of drugs
(D) has been a plaintiff in previous malpractice
suits
Practice Test 1 6
23.
Initial treatment of the condition shown in this radiograph would most appropriately include
____________________________________________________________________________________________
24. Blood pressure may drop when spinal anesthesia 26. In a medical malpractice action, the plaintiff must
is used because prove that the podiatric physician did not meet
the standard of care, which is defined as
(A) the patient is recumbent
(B) sympathectomy may cause vasodilatation (A) that care necessary to correct the patient’s
(C) motor blockade affects the vasoconstrictor problem so the patient is cured
muscles (B) the care a reasonable podiatric physician
(D) sensory blockade obviates the need for would provide under the same or similar
higher pressure circumstances
(C) the care a compassionate podiatric physician
25. Which of the following casting techniques allows would provide under the same or similar
the best visualization of the neutral subtalar joint circumstances
position and the forefoot-to-rearfoot relationship? (D) the best care that could be provided by any
podiatric physician under the same or
(A) Prone suspension
similar circumstances
(B) Supine modified Langer
(C) Biofoam partial weightbearing
(D) BioVac inshoe vacuum
7 Practice Test 1
27. Arrhythmia may occur from the toxic effects of 31. A 12-year-old patient who is being evaluated for
which of the following medications? hip pain of several weeks’ duration has other
complaints that are more acute. The patient
(A) Hydrochlorothiazide
complains of headache and fever, some
(B) Nifedipine
photophobia, and “just not feeling well.” These
(C) Digitalis
symptoms began yesterday and appear to be
(D) Quinine
getting worse. The podiatric physician notices
that the patient moves slowly and carefully and
28. Balancing the heel of a positive cast used to
that the neck is painful and somewhat stiff.
fabricate a functional orthotic in an inverted
Temperature is 103°F. There is no sign of head
position effectively decreases
trauma, and the pupils are equal and reactive.
(A) supination around the subtalar joint axis The lungs and heart are normal. There is no skin
(B) supination around the midtarsal joint axis rash. The left hip is slightly tender over the
(C) pronation around the subtalar joint axis trochanter but has full range of motion. The
(D) dorsiflexion around the first patient appears neurologically intact. Which of
metatarsophalangeal joint axis the following is the most likely diagnosis for
these acute symptoms?
29. The laying down of new bone surrounding an
(A) Osteomyelitis
area of infection is referred to as
(B) Lyme disease
(A) a cloaca (C) Meningitis
(B) an involucrum (D) Viral upper respiratory infection
(C) a sequestrum
(D) emphysema 32. A lateral weightbearing roentgenogram of a
flexible flatfoot will demonstrate
30. Wound dehiscence may result from all of the
(A) a well-visualized sinus tarsi
following EXCEPT
(B) a plantarflexed attitude of the talus
(A) infection (C) an increased angle of declination of the
(B) hematoma metatarsals
(C) sutures that are too tight (D) a decrease in the talocalcaneal angle
(D) everted wound margins
Practice Test 1 8
33. Which of the following intravenous medications 38. A town has a population of 500,000 in a
is indicated for nausea? particular year. During that year there are 500
live births and 500 deaths, 100 of which are of
(A) Midazolam
children under 1 year of age. What is the infant
(B) Meperidine
mortality rate?
(C) Phenobarbital
(D) Promethazine (A) 1/1,000
(B) 5/1,000
34. Ultrasound therapy is an appropriate treatment (C) 200/1,000
for which of the following? (D) 500/1,000
(A) Arterial insufficiency
39. Which of the following bone tumors is
(B) Enthesopathy
malignant?
(C) Thrombophlebitis
(D) A stress fracture (A) Chondroma
(B) Giant cell tumor
35. Which of the following would be an appropriate (C) Ewing’s sarcoma
cast for a patient who has undergone repair for an (D) Osteoid osteoma
Achilles tendon rupture?
40. A 65-year-old woman has undergone an
(A) A long leg cast with the ankle plantarflexed
emergency incision and drainage of a plantar
20º
ulcer associated with ascending cellulitis. She
(B) A long leg cast with the foot 90º to the leg
has a history of insulin-dependent diabetes,
(C) A short leg cast with the ankle plantarflexed
hypertension, and chronic venous insufficiency.
20º
On the third postoperative day, the patient
(D) A short leg cast with the foot 90º to the leg
complains of severe substernal chest pain
radiating to the back. Which of the following is
36. The primary function of neutrophils in the body’s
the LEAST likely cause of the pain?
defense is to
(A) Costal chondritis
(A) assist lymphocytes in response to
(B) Pulmonary embolism
anaphylaxis
(C) Myocardial infarction
(B) phagocytize and destroy microorganisms
(D) Dissecting aortic aneurysm
(C) initiate the IgE immunologic response
(D) release histamine
41. After administration of a general anesthesia, a
podiatric physician injects 8 cubic centimeters of
37. Which of the following phases of wound healing
2% lidocaine in Mayo fashion into a 42-year-old
is characterized by the release of vasoactive
patient in order to perform a modified McBride
amines and initial vasoconstriction?
procedure. During the prep and drape, the patient
(A) Proliferative experiences increased temperature, arrhythmias,
(B) Inflammatory and muscle rigidity. The patient is most likely
(C) Maturation experiencing
(D) Fibroblastic
(A) anaphylaxis
(B) malignant hyperthermia
(C) a hypertensive crisis
(D) a myocardial infarction
9 Practice Test 1
42. Performing an inversion stress test with the ankle 46. Fever that occurs during the first postoperative
in a neutral position is useful in the detection of day after a general anesthetic has been
injury to which of the following ligaments? administered is most likely the result of which of
the following?
(A) Calcaneofibular
(B) Posterior talofibular (A) Atelectasis
(C) Anterior talofibular (B) Infection
(D) Anterior inferior tibiofibular (C) Malignant hyperthermia
(D) Urinary tract infection
43. Which of the following nail changes is
characteristic of lichen planus? 47. Tibial varum should be measured with the
rearfoot
(A) Pitting
(B) Pterygium (A) parallel with the leg
(C) Thickening (B) perpendicular to the ground
(D) Oil drop staining (C) in the neutral calcaneal stance position
(D) in the relaxed calcaneal stance position
44. If all other factors remain unchanged, a blacker
radiograph can be produced by 48. Which of the following tendons is exposed during
neuroma surgery performed on the third
(A) increasing the source-to-image distance
interspace through a dorsal approach?
(B) increasing the mA
(C) decreasing the kVp (A) Plantar interosseous to the third toe
(D) decreasing the exposure time (B) Flexor digitorum brevis to the third toe
(C) Lumbrical to the fourth toe
45. An increase in the thickness of the calcaneal fat (D) Dorsal interosseous to the fourth toe
pad is a cardinal sign of which of the following
conditions?
(A) Hyperparathyroidism
(B) Cushing’s syndrome
(C) Acromegaly
(D) Hypervitaminosis A
Practice Test 1 10
49.
50. A 65-year-old patient presents for a 52. After surgery for a dislocated hammer toe, the
bunionectomy. The patient has been healthy digit is still slightly dorsiflexed at the
and takes no medications. A reasonable metatarsophalangeal joint, despite the fact that
intervention to prevent pulmonary emboli a complete sequential reduction was performed.
postoperatively would be At the time of surgery, the podiatric physician
should have done which of the following?
(A) elastic stockings
(B) warfarin (A) Performed a flexor tendon lengthening
(C) subcutaneous heparin procedure.
(D) an inferior vena cava filter (B) Performed an extensor tendon lengthening
procedure.
51. All of the following are appropriate drugs for the (C) Stabilized the digit to the base of the
treatment of rheumatoid arthritis EXCEPT proximal phalanx with a Kirschner wire.
(D) Stabilized the digit to the base of the
(A) penicillamine
proximal phalanx and across the
(B) prednisone
metatarsophalangeal joint with a Kirschner
(C) pentoxifylline
wire.
(D) piroxicam
11 Practice Test 1
53. Lidocaine can be used to 56. Peroneal muscular atrophy is best known as
(A) increase cardiac contractility (A) Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease
(B) control premature ventricular contractions (B) Refsum’s disease
(C) control atrial flutter (C) Dejerine-Sottas disease
(D) control atrial fibrillation (D) Guillain-Barré syndrome
Questions 54-55 refer to the following case. 57. Which of the following are mandates of state
departments of health? Select the two that apply.
A 67-year-old woman presents with complaints of a
(A) Manage educational services
tender, progressively flattening arch on the left foot.
(B) Manage environmental services
She has no pain in the right foot, and modifying her
(C) Set public health policies and standards
shoe gear to softer, more “comfortable” styles has not
(D) Collect, analyze, and disseminate health
helped alleviate her symptoms. Her symptoms began
information
approximately 6 weeks ago when she heard a
(E) Set drug dispensing standards
popping sound in her foot.
58. Which of the following accessory bones are
54. Which of the following is the most likely
sesamoid bones? Select the two that apply.
diagnosis?
(A) Os peroneum
(A) A Lisfranc’s fracture dislocation
(B) Os trigonum
(B) A form of arthritis
(C) Os supra naviculare
(C) A stress fracture of the fifth metatarsal
(D) Accessory navicular type I
(D) A ruptured tibialis posterior tendon
(E) Accessory navicular type II
55. Which of the following diagnostic modalities
59. Which of the following are potential signs of
would be best for confirming the diagnosis?
early sepsis in the elderly? Select the three that
(A) An MRI scan of both feet apply.
(B) A CT scan of both feet
(A) Agitation
(C) Multiple x-ray views
(B) Respiratory acidosis
(D) An arthritis panel to include SMAC-12,
(C) Respiratory rate of 24
ANA, ESR, C-reactive protein, RA, and
(D) Polyuria
LE prep
(E) Nocturnal disorientation (“sundowning”)
____________________________________________________________________________________________
60. List the following steps in a McBride bunionectomy in the order in which they are performed (from first to
last).
(A) Section of the deep transverse intermetatarsal ligament 1. _____
(B) Release of the conjoined adductor tendon 2. _____
(C) Medial capsulotomy 3. _____
(D) Removal of the fibular sesamoid 4. _____
(E) Exostectomy 5. _____
PART II
Clinical Science Examination
PRACTICE TEST 2
The Part II Practice Tests are representative of the content covered in the Part II Examination. They
include question formats found in the actual examination. They also include questions of varying
difficulty. A candidate’s performance on a Practice Test does not guarantee similar performance on
the actual examination.
60 questions
Directions for questions 1-56: These questions are followed by four suggested answers. Select the one answer that
is best in each case.
NOTE: Throughout this test, the term “medial oblique foot” refers to a nonweightbearing medial oblique position
in which the film is flat on the orthoposer, the medial side of the foot is closest to the film and the sole forms a 45°
angulation with the film, and the central beam is 90° to the film (the tubehead is angulated 0°). The converse is true
for the term “lateral oblique.”
1. Generalized osteopenia is a characteristic feature 5. All of the following conditions may cause pes
of planus EXCEPT
(A) osteomyelitis (A) vertical talus
(B) osteosarcoma (B) gastrocnemius equinus
(C) osteoporosis (C) posterior tibial tendon rupture
(D) osteoarthritis (D) Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease
2. Which of the following anesthetics is normally 6. The film/cassette is placed vertically in the
administered intravenously? orthoposer for which of the following views?
(A) Thiopental (A) Weightbearing lateral
(B) Enflurane (B) Weightbearing dorsoplantar
(C) Halothane (C) Weightbearing calcaneal axial
(D) Nitrous oxide (D) Nonweightbearing medial oblique
3. A 19-year-old male patient presents with an itchy 7. Which of the following tests is used in the
and burning rash on the bottom of his foot. management of patients on warfarin?
Physical examination reveals patchy scaling on
(A) Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)
an erythematous base. The lesions are dry and
(B) Partial thromboplastin time (PTT)
extend to the sides of the foot in a moccasin
(C) Prothrombin time (PT)
distribution. Which of the following would be an
(D) Rumpel-Leede test
appropriate presumptive diagnosis?
(A) Psoriasis 8. When implant surgery is performed, the most
(B) Tinea pedis appropriate antibiotic prophylaxis is provided by
(C) Lichen planus which of the following?
(D) Pityriasis rubra pilaris
(A) First-generation cephalosporins
(B) Third-generation cephalosporins
4. Which of the following is the single most
(C) Aminoglycosides
important preventable risk factor for peripheral
(D) Quinoline
vascular disease?
(A) Stress
(B) High fat diet
(C) Cigarette smoking
(D) Alcohol abuse
Practice Test 2 16
9. Which of the following would be most useful in 13. Ankle stress radiographs of an isolated rupture of
the treatment of a patient with ankle fusion the calcaneofibular ligament will reveal a
secondary to trauma?
(A) positive anterior drawer sign and negative
(A) A stiff sole shoe talar tilt
(B) A rocker-bottom shoe (B) positive anterior drawer sign and positive
(C) A shoe with a Thomas heel talar tilt
(D) A lateral heel flare (C) negative anterior drawer sign and negative
talar tilt
10. A 28-year-old female patient presents with pain (D) negative anterior drawer sign and positive
in the left forefoot that began after a long hike on talar tilt
a mountainous trail. There is no history of
trauma. Physical examination reveals nontender 14. A 38-year-old patient with diabetes mellitus is in
range of motion of the metatarsophalangeal the preoperative holding area and surgery has
joints. Deep palpation of the intermetatarsal been delayed for 2 hours. One-half of the
spaces does not reproduce the patient’s patient’s prescribed AM NPH insulin dose was
symptoms; however, palpation along the second administered at 7:00 AM. It is now 9:30 AM and
metatarsal is painful. Which of the following is the patient suddenly becomes disoriented and
the most likely diagnosis? begins to perspire profusely. Which of the
following actions would be most appropriate?
(A) Intermetatarsal space neuroma in continuity
(B) Capsulitis of the second metatarsophalangeal (A) Obtain an electrocardiogram (EKG).
joint (B) Perform a finger-stick blood glucose
(C) Stress fracture of the second metatarsal evaluation.
(D) Degenerative joint disease of the second (C) Administer the remaining half of the
metatarsophalangeal joint patient’s prescribed AM NPH insulin.
(D) Administer midazolam 2 mg to the patient.
11. The radiographic weightbearing lateral view of
the foot requires 15. All of the following are radiographic features
of closed-kinetic-chain subtalar joint pronation
(A) placing the film flat on the orthoposer
EXCEPT an
(B) placing the lateral side of the foot against the
film (A) increased metatarsus adductus angle
(C) directing the central beam at the ankle (B) increased talar declination angle
(D) angling the tubehead 90° from vertical (C) increased talocalcaneal angle
(D) anterior break in the cyma line
12. Which of the following findings is most
commonly observed in the first phase of 16. A podiatric physician who submits a report of
neuropathic arthropathy (Charcot’s joint)? child abuse will be
(A) Ankylosis (A) liable if no abuse in fact occurred
(B) Cyanosis (B) liable if the report was true but made with
(C) Pain malice
(D) Erythema (C) immune from liability if there was
reasonable cause to suspect abuse
(D) immune from liability only if the podiatric
physician personally examined the child
17 Practice Test 2
17. Which of the following antibiotic combinations, 21. Which of the following statements is true
given orally, would offer the best overall concerning therapeutic ultrasound?
coverage for gram-positive, gram-negative, and
(A) It is best used without a coupling agent.
anaerobic infections?
(B) It will dissolve intratendinous calcifications.
(A) Penicillin and ofloxacin (C) It can be used to diagnose acute and chronic
(B) Erythromycin and tendon ruptures.
trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (D) Sonic energy increases the temperature in
(C) Clindamycin and ciprofloxacin deep tissues.
(D) Metronidazole and oxacillin
22. Decreased metatarsal bone girth is seen in which
Questions 18-19 refer to the following case. of the following?
(A) Osteogenesis imperfecta
A 12-year-old patient presents with pain on the
(B) Thyroid acropachy
lateral side of the right ankle when standing. The
(C) Acromegaly
subtalar joint is restricted in motion, and pain is
(D) Paget’s disease
elicited on palpation of the fibular (peroneal)
tendons.
23. The most common cell types seen in cases of
immediate hypersensitivity are
18. A lateral x-ray would most probably demonstrate
(A) lymphocytes and monocytes
(A) a large os trigonum
(B) neutrophils and eosinophils
(B) a posteriorly broken cyma line
(C) mast cells and basophils
(C) an increased calcaneal inclination
(D) band cells
(D) dorsal talar head and neck beaking
24. Which of the following local anesthetics has the
19. If the medial oblique view of the foot is negative,
shortest duration of action?
which of the following views will probably be
positive? (A) Tetracaine
(B) Lidocaine
(A) Harris-Beath (calcaneal axial)
(C) Bupivacaine
(B) Anteroposterior
(D) Etidocaine
(C) Sesamoidal axial
(D) Mortise ankle
___________________________________________
25.
(A) osteoarthritis
(B) gouty arthritis
(C) psoriatic arthritis
(D) rheumatoid arthritis
19 Practice Test 2
26. Which of the following is the first step in basic 31. Stabilization of toes at the metatarsophalangeal
life support (BLS)? joint during midstance is aided by which of the
following muscles?
(A) Ventilation
(B) Airway restoration (A) Gastrocnemius
(C) Restoration of circulation (B) Quadratus plantae
(D) Assessment for unresponsiveness (C) Tibialis posterior
(D) Extensor digitorum longus
27. A 42-year-old patient underwent second
interspace neuroma surgery 2 years ago. The 32. Running in a shoe with a sole that is too rigid
patient now complains that the second toe is across the metatarsophalangeal joints increases a
deviated medially. Damage to which of the person’s risk of developing
following muscles during surgery would result in
(A) piriformis syndrome
this finding?
(B) posterior tibial tendinitis
(A) First plantar interossei (C) fibularis (peroneus) longus tendinitis
(B) Second dorsal interossei (D) anterior tibial shin splints
(C) Third dorsal interossei
(D) Lumbricales 33. The hinge axis concept is useful when planning
which of the following procedures?
28. Which of the following is a
(A) A hallux interphalangeal joint arthrodesis
CONTRAINDICATION to the resection
(B) A subtalar joint arthroereisis
of a calcaneonavicular coalition?
(C) A metatarsal basilar osteotomy
(A) Peroneal spasm (D) A Kidner procedure
(B) Talar beaking
(C) A completely ossified bar 34. Intravenous barbiturates can produce all of the
(D) Degenerative disease of the subtalar joint following EXCEPT
(A) hypnosis
29. An apparently nervous 25-year-old female patient
(B) unconsciousness with increased doses
demonstrates lid lag during examination, along
(C) myocardial excitation with increased doses
with a fine tremor of her outstretched hands.
(D) interference with the sensitivity of the
Her skin is warm, moist, and smooth. Her
medullary respiratory center to carbon
nervousness is most likely the result of which of
dioxide
the following?
(A) Addison’s disease 35. Capitation is generally part of which of the
(B) Cushing’s syndrome following health care delivery systems?
(C) Pheochromocytoma
(A) PPO
(D) Hyperthyroidism
(B) IPA
(C) HMO
30. The proliferative phase of wound healing is
(D) Fee-for-service
characterized by
(A) neutrophilic infiltrates 36. From a plantar approach, the common digital
(B) remodeling and scar tissue formation nerve divides into two proper digital nerves
(C) epithelialization and connective tissue repair which, in relation to the deep transverse
(D) inflammation and decreased tensile strength metatarsal ligament, are
(A) superficial
(B) superior
(C) proximal
(D) deep
Practice Test 2 20
37. A 64-year-old male patient complains of a cold 41. Which type of exercise should be recommended
left foot and cramping pain in his left calf and to minimize muscle atrophy in a patient with a
buttock when walking. He also states that he is short leg cast?
impotent. Examination reveals a weak femoral
(A) Concentric
pulse on the left side and nonpalpable pulses at
(B) Isotonic
the popliteal and pedal arteries. It is most likely
(C) Isokinetic
that an occlusion has occurred in which of the
(D) Isometric
following arteries?
(A) Deep femoral 42. When a dressing is applied after a flexor to
(B) Superficial femoral extensor tendon transfer for stabilization, it is
(C) Common femoral most important to
(D) Common iliac
(A) allow the toe to seek its own level
(B) apply povidone-iodine to prevent infection
38. A 21-year-old basketball player sustained a
(C) plantarflex the proximal phalanx at the
complete rupture of the Achilles tendon. It is
metatarsophalangeal joint
now 5 days after the injury and the patient has
(D) dorsiflex the proximal phalanx at the
been immobilized in a posterior splint. The most
metatarsophalangeal joint
appropriate treatment at this time is
(A) a primary anastomosis with an augmentation 43. Which of the following therapies is
graft if necessary recommended for initial treatment of an acute
(B) resection of the fibrous plug and an asthmatic attack?
augmentation graft of the defect
(A) Intravenous theophylline
(C) a long leg cast for 4 weeks followed by a
(B) Inhaled glucocorticoids
short leg cast for 4 weeks
(C) Inhaled beta-adrenergic agonists
(D) a short leg cast for 6 weeks followed by
(D) Intramuscular antihistamines
aggressive physical therapy
44. A podiatric physician suspects that a patient
39. Radiographs of a college basketball player who
may be abusing the hydrocodone prescribed for
presents with a foot injury reveal a minimally
the patient’s foot surgery. All of the following
displaced fracture of the proximal shaft of the
signs and symptoms would indicate hydrocodone
fifth metatarsal. Treatment should consist of
abuse EXCEPT
which of the following?
(A) miosis
(A) Tape and immobilization
(B) diarrhea
(B) A nonweightbearing cast
(C) drowsiness
(C) An Ace bandage and ambulation as tolerated
(D) pruritus of the nose
(D) An Unna’s boot and partial weightbearing
with crutches
45. Which of the following is true about the
talocalcaneal angle?
40. All of the following are clinical signs of anabolic
steroid use in young athletes EXCEPT (A) It is 8°-10° in the normal foot.
(B) It is increased in a flatfoot deformity.
(A) alopecia
(C) It is increased in a supinated foot deformity.
(B) hypertension
(D) It is decreased in a pronated foot deformity.
(C) osteoporosis
(D) temporary sterility
21 Practice Test 2
46. In civil court, the performance of a procedure on 51. Which of the following is the best treatment for a
a patient without the patient’s informed consent dermatofibroma on the anterior ankle?
could be considered
(A) Fulguration or laser ablation
(A) assault (B) Salicylic acid treatments with debridement
(B) malpractice (C) Surgical excision and pathological
(C) abuse examination
(D) battery (D) Wide excision, pathological examination,
and probable chemotherapy
47. Which of the following gait patterns is most
commonly seen in cases of lower motor neuron 52. The doctor-patient privilege may be waived
pathology?
(A) by the patient only
(A) Steppage (B) by the doctor only
(B) Circumduction (C) only if both the patient and the doctor agree
(C) Festinating to waive it
(D) Ataxic (D) only with the consent of a judge
48. A 30-year-old male patient with a history of 53. How often should a patient’s vital signs be
seizures since childhood has a seizure during a monitored following general inhalation
routine office visit for a wound check. The anesthesia?
podiatric physician should immediately
(A) Every 15 minutes until stable
(A) insert a bite block (B) Every hour
(B) turn the patient on his side (C) Twice a day
(C) administer phenytoin, 500 mg, IV (D) Every nursing shift
(D) administer diazepam, 10 mg, IV
54. The risk of which of the following is increased
49. Which of the following is a typical radiographic most for patients who undergo hip and knee-joint
finding in cases of osteochondroma? replacement procedures?
(A) Epiphyseal location (A) Pneumonia
(B) Moth-eaten appearance (B) Atelectasis
(C) Osseous protuberance that grows toward the (C) Pulmonary embolism
joint (D) Myocardial infarction
(D) Osseous protuberance with the cortex
continuous with the parent bone 55. A patient’s blood laboratory results reveal
elevated levels of creatine phosphokinase,
50. In podiatric radiology, the standard anode-film aldolase, and alanine transaminase. Which of the
distance usually falls within a range of following is the most likely diagnosis?
(A) 12-17 inches (A) Muscular dystrophy
(B) 18-23 inches (B) Rheumatoid arthritis
(C) 24-30 inches (C) Aneurysmal bone cyst
(D) 31-36 inches (D) Cerebral palsy
Practice Test 2 22
___________________________________________________________________________________________
60. List the order in which the components of the talipes equinovarus deformity should be corrected during casting
treatment (from first to last).
(A) Adduction component 1. _____
(B) Inversion component 2. _____
(C) Equinus component 3. _____
(D) Internal torsional component at the tibia 4. _____
PART II
Clinical Science Examination
PRACTICE TEST 3
The Part II Practice Tests are representative of the content covered in the Part II Examination.
They include question formats found in the actual examination. They also include questions of
varying difficulty. A candidate’s performance on a Practice Test does not guarantee similar
performance on the actual examination.
60 questions
Directions for questions 1-55: These questions are followed by four suggested answers. Select the one answer that
is best in each case.
NOTE: Throughout this test, the term “medial oblique foot” refers to a nonweightbearing medial oblique position
in which the film is flat on the orthoposer, the medial side of the foot is closest to the film and the sole forms a 45°
angulation with the film, and the central beam is 90° to the film (the tubehead is angulated 0°). The converse is true
for the term “lateral oblique.”
1. Diazepam is used in the anesthetic setting to 5. When should a podiatric physician prescribe
reduce ambulation and range-of-motion exercises for a
postoperative patient with a history of deep vein
(A) cardiac depression
thrombosis?
(B) respiratory tract secretions
(C) postoperative pain (A) Before symptoms develop, for prevention
(D) anxiety (B) After symptoms develop but before a
definitive diagnosis is made
2. Which of the following classes of drugs is used to (C) After a definitive diagnosis is made
treat osteoporosis? (D) Three days after a venous thrombus has been
identified
(A) Calcium channel blockers
(B) Bisphosphonates
6. Which of the following conditions has a strong
(C) Antiestrogens
(short) T1 signal on MRI?
(D) Steroids
(A) Lipoma
3. Radiographically, the inversion ankle stress view (B) Osteomyelitis
is most useful in evaluating which of the (C) Hemangioma
following conditions? (D) Ganglionic cyst
(A) Achilles tendon rupture
7. In football players, the most common mechanism
(B) Lateral ligament rupture
of metatarsophalangeal dislocation is
(C) Osteoarthritis
(D) Osteochondral defect (A) hyperdorsiflexion
(B) hyperplantarflexion
4. Which of the following is the phase of gait during (C) hyperadduction
which the body’s center of mass is directly over (D) hyperabduction
the metatarsophalangeal joints and the sesamoids
are most compressed? 8. The main concern during surgery following an
inadvertent scrape or needle stick is
(A) Just after heel contact
(B) Midstance (A) hepatitis A infection
(C) Just before heel lift (B) hepatitis B infection
(D) Swing (C) a positive TB test
(D) a gram-positive infection
Practice Test 3 26
9. A 60-year-old male patient is scheduled for a 13. In closed-chain kinetics, internal rotation of the
neurectomy in a podiatric physician’s office. On leg results in
preoperative examination his blood pressure is
(A) locking of the midtarsal joint
160/115 mm Hg on three consecutive readings.
(B) effective weightbearing of the first ray
In this situation, the podiatric physician should do
(C) pronation of the subtalar joint
which of the following?
(D) abduction of the talus
(A) Cancel the surgery.
(B) Administer calcium channel blockers and 14. Twelve hours postoperatively, a patient with a
proceed with the surgery 15 minutes later. cast complains of severe pain, bluish
(C) Change the procedure to an in-hospital discoloration of the digits, numbness, and
setting for the next day. throbbing. Which of the following would be the
(D) Proceed with the surgery as planned. most appropriate treatment?
(A) Apply heat.
10. A patient presents with interdigital lesions that
(B) Apply ice and elevate.
fluoresce coral pink under a Wood’s light. The
(C) Apply a bivalve cast.
drug of choice for treatment is
(D) Administer intramuscular meperidine.
(A) tetracycline
(B) erythromycin 15. The establishment of the doctor-patient
(C) ciprofloxacin relationship requires a
(D) terbinafine
(A) written contract between doctor and patient
that must be witnessed or notarized
11. A 26-year-old patient presents to the emergency
(B) written contract that must be signed by both
department with a puncture wound of the right
doctor and patient
foot, sustained while working in a construction
(C) written or oral contract that must be
zone. Emergency department records confirm a
acknowledged by both doctor and patient
similar injury 1 year ago, at which time the
(D) written, oral, or implied contract between
patient was given a tetanus immunization. Which
doctor and patient
of the following is a true statement about tetanus
prophylaxis at this time?
16. Which of the following conditions would benefit
(A) No additional tetanus immunization is most from immobilization alone?
necessary.
(A) Atrophic nonunion
(B) The patient will require half of the normal
(B) Hypertrophic nonunion
dose of tetanus toxoid.
(C) Infected nonunion
(C) The patient will require tetanus
(D) Pseudoarthrosis
immunoglobulin only.
(D) The patient will require tetanus
17. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis frequently have
immunoglobulin and tetanus toxoid.
a subluxation of
12. All of the following are risk factors (A) the subtalar joint
for the development of deep vein (B) the lumbar spine
thrombophlebitis EXCEPT (C) C1 and C2
(D) T2 and T3
(A) obesity
(B) varicose veins
(C) use of local anesthetics
(D) smoking
27 Practice Test 3
18. Aggressive dissection of the first interspace at the 23. In order to classify a neuromuscular disorder as
time of a fibular sesamoid release is most likely cerebral palsy, there must be
to damage the intrinsic muscle belly of which of
(A) cranial trauma
the following muscles?
(B) a brain tumor
(A) Quadratus plantae (C) a nonprogressive lesion
(B) Abductor hallucis (D) paralysis of the lower extremity
(C) First dorsal interosseous
(D) First plantar interosseous 24. On lateral weightbearing radiographs, markedly
increased density is noted in the area of the
19. In the oral treatment of onychomycosis, which of subtalar joint and sustentaculum tali.
the following drugs is fungicidal at low Osteophytosis is noted at the level of the talar
concentrations? neck. The differential diagnosis should include
all of the following EXCEPT
(A) Griseofulvin
(B) Terbinafine (A) osteoarthritis
(C) Fluconazole (B) tarsal coalition
(D) Itraconazole (C) compression fracture of the subtalar joint
(D) osteomyelitis
20. In a Lisfranc’s fracture of the midfoot, the most
common displacement seen is 25. The inflammatory phase of wound healing
normally lasts approximately
(A) dorsal and lateral
(B) dorsal and medial (A) 24 hours
(C) plantar and lateral (B) 3-5 days
(D) plantar and medial (C) 14 days
(D) 6 weeks
21. After the primary repair of a ruptured anterior
tibial tendon, the most appropriate casting 26. In the normal development of the foot, the center
technique would be a of ossification appears last in the
(A) short leg cast with the ankle neutral (A) talus
(B) short leg cast with the ankle plantarflexed (B) calcaneus
(C) long leg cast with the ankle plantarflexed (C) lateral cuneiform
(D) long leg cast with the ankle neutral (D) navicular
22. OSHA regulations require that an employer do 27. When surgical scars are planned, it is important
which of the following? to remember that skin tension lines appear in
which direction relative to the direction of muscle
(A) Provide hepatitis B vaccinations for all
movement?
employees.
(B) Post OSHA regulations in a highly visible (A) Oblique
area for all employees. (B) Parallel
(C) Require that all employees receive CPR (C) Tangential
certification. (D) Perpendicular
(D) Establish a contractual agreement with an
OSHA-approved management program.
Practice Test 3 28
28. The initial treatment of choice for reflex 31. A 58-year-old female patient has a septic ankle
sympathetic dystrophy in the lower extremity is joint that requires irrigation. She has a negative
cardiac history and takes no medications. The
(A) surgical sympathectomy
patient has had fevers to 103.2°F and blood
(B) the administration of vasoconstrictors
cultures are positive for Staphylococcus aureus.
(C) immobilization of the affected extremity
Which of the following anesthesia options would
(D) physical therapy of the affected extremity
be CONTRAINDICATED in this patient?
29. Which of the following instruments has strong, (A) Spinal anesthesia
heavily constructed opposing jaws, each of which (B) Sciatic block anesthesia
is scooped out like the tip of a curette? (C) General endotracheal anesthesia
(D) Laryngeal mask anesthesia
(A) A gouge
(B) A malleable retractor
32. A patient presents with a second toe that is
(C) A rongeur forceps
dislocated in the sagittal plane. One year ago,
(D) A double-action bone cutting forceps
the proximal phalangeal base of the toe was
removed. The most likely cause of the
30. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation
dislocation is loss of attachment of the
(TENS) is used for
(A) first lumbrical and the first and second dorsal
(A) neuromuscular reeducation
interossei
(B) edema reduction
(B) first lumbrical and the first and second
(C) pain relief
plantar interossei
(D) biofeedback to overcome postinjury muscle
(C) first and second lumbricals and the first
inhibition
dorsal interosseous
(D) first and second lumbricals and the first
plantar interosseous
29 Practice Test 3
33.
Which of the following organisms would most likely produce the finding displayed in the radiograph?
(A) Staphylococcus aureus
(B) Pseudomonas aeruginosa
(C) Streptococcus pyogenes
(D) Clostridium perfringens
Practice Test 3 30
34. Below the knee, osteoid osteomas are most Questions 39-40 refer to the following case.
commonly found in the
A 47-year-old patient has pain in the right ankle of
(A) calcaneus
several weeks’ duration. The patient remembers no
(B) tibia
inciting event but says the pain worsens with
(C) metatarsal
increased activity. The right foot appears more
(D) navicular
pronated than the left foot on weightbearing; on
attempts to rise to the toes, the patient has
35. Which of the following findings is most
considerable pain and the rearfoot does not invert.
suggestive of child abuse?
Pain is found on palpation just proximal to the
(A) Limping gait navicular tuberosity.
(B) Multiple leg bruises
(C) A spiral fracture of the humerus 39. Which of the following is the most likely
(D) Fractures in different stages of healing diagnosis?
(A) Popliteal rupture
36. A 30-year-old patient presents with bilateral
(B) Talonavicular bar
ankle pain. A systems review is positive for
(C) Calcaneal stress fracture
shortness of breath and a dry cough. Physical
(D) Tibialis posterior tendinitis
examination reveals multiple tender erythematous
subcutaneous nodules on both legs. The probable
40. Which of the following examination techniques
etiology of the ankle pain is
would be most appropriate?
(A) sarcoidosis
(A) Side-to-side compression of the calcaneus
(B) psoriatic arthritis
(B) Supination of the subtalar joint against
(C) enteropathic arthritis
resistance
(D) rheumatoid arthritis
(C) A calf squeeze
(D) A Coleman block test
37. All of the following are considered seronegative
spondyloarthropathies EXCEPT
(A) psoriatic arthritis
(B) ankylosing spondylitis
(C) erythromelalgia
(D) Reiter’s syndrome
41. Rheumatic heart disease is characterized by 46. Which of the following immune reactions best
describes allergic contact dermatitis?
(A) mitral valve damage
(B) tricuspid valve damage (A) Immune-complex formation
(C) holosystolic murmur (B) Hapten-mediated cytotoxicity
(D) a history of Staphylococcus aureus infection (C) IgE-mediated allergic reaction
(D) Delayed cutaneous hypersensitivity
42. Which of the following sets of parameters will
result in the lowest radiation dose to the patient? 47. A 20-year-old male patient with hemophilia
presents for podiatric treatment of a paronychia.
(A) 15 mA, 10/60 sec, 69 kVp
He is currently under treatment by his physician
(B) 15 mA, 10/60 sec, 60 kVp
and requires routine transfusion and Factor VIII
(C) 15 mA, 5/60 sec, 69 kVp
administration. Which of the following would
(D) 30 mA, 5/60 sec, 60 kVp
provide the most pertinent information?
43. Absorbable pins are an appropriate method of (A) Platelet count
fixation for which of the following procedures? (B) Reticulocyte count
(C) Prothrombin time (PT)
(A) Proximal metatarsal osteotomy
(D) Partial thromboplastin time (PTT)
(B) Austin bunionectomy
(C) Base wedge osteotomy
48. If a patient presents with the classic symptoms of
(D) Metatarsophalangeal joint fusion
a stress fracture, but the radiographs are initially
normal, the next special imaging study to order
44. A 53-year-old female patient presents with a
would be
1-year history of an unsightly painless “bump”
on the dorsum of the right foot. She has worked (A) ultrasound
outdoors in sandals all of her adult life. The (B) xeroradiography
lesion is 1 centimeter in diameter. It has an (C) bone scintigraphy
elevated, “rolled” translucent border and a central (D) angiography
umbilication with a central crust that bleeds on
debridement. Which of the following would be 49. Which of the following is the most common bone
an appropriate presumptive diagnosis? lesion?
(A) Red ant bite (A) An aneurysmal bone cyst
(B) Verruca vulgaris (B) An enchondroma
(C) Basal cell carcinoma (C) An osteochondroma
(D) Molluscum contagiosum (D) An osteoblastoma
45. A nerve block procedure may NOT be successful 50. A competitive collegiate basketball player
in the presence of infection for which of the presents with a 1-week history of lateral midfoot
following reasons? pain and swelling. Radiographs reveal a
nondisplaced transverse fracture at the proximal
(A) Local anesthetics are bases and may be
metaphyseal-diaphyseal junction of the fifth
neutralized by the acidic environment of an
metatarsal. No intramedullary sclerosis is present
infection.
at the fracture site. The most appropriate
(B) Local anesthetics may be degraded by the
treatment would be
increased amounts of pseudocholinesterase.
(C) Local anesthetics may be degraded by the (A) a posterior splint
bacteria. (B) a bone stimulator with partial weightbearing
(D) Edema and inflammation may prevent the (C) fracture shoe immobilization for 6-8 weeks
anesthetic from crossing the nerve’s lipid (D) open reduction and internal fixation with an
barrier. intramedullary screw
Practice Test 3 32
51. Which of the following is considered a violation 56. A T1 image on an MRI scan is described by
of sterile technique? which of the following parameters? Select the
two that apply.
(A) Double-gloving
(B) Hands above the head (A) TE of 25 msec
(C) Hands below the waist (B) TE of 125 msec
(D) Switching positions back-to-back (C) TE of 1000 msec
(D) TR of 25 msec
52. A 45-year-old construction worker sustains a (E) TR of 500 msec
severe crush injury to the right foot, and on
admission to the emergency department is noted 57. Which of the following complications are
to be hypotensive. The paramedics report that the commonly caused by sickle cell disease? Select
patient lost approximately 1,000 cubic the three that apply.
centimeters of blood during transit to the hospital.
(A) Osteoporosis
Packed red cell transfusions are instituted.
(B) Early puberty
Approximately 4 hours later, the patient is in
(C) Chronic hematuria
shock with severe back pain, flushing, and fever.
(D) Aseptic necrosis of the hips
Which of the following is a likely diagnosis?
(E) Chronic osteomyelitis caused by Salmonella
(A) Sepsis
(B) Pulmonary edema 58. A patient with a unilateral flatfoot deformity
(C) Myocardial infarction presents with pain centered over the medial
(D) Major hemolytic reaction navicular. Radiographic studies of the involved
foot demonstrate the presence of a small rounded
53. Following repair of an Achilles tendon rupture, ossicle-like structure adjacent to the medial
which type of cast should be applied? navicular. Which of the following are likely
conclusions? Select the three that apply.
(A) A short leg cast with the foot in a neutral
position (A) This is an os tibiale externum type I.
(B) A short leg cast with the foot in an equinus (B) This is an os tibiale externum type II.
position (C) This is an avulsed fracture fragment.
(C) A long leg cast with the foot in a neutral (D) This has nothing to do with the
position symptomatology.
(D) A long leg cast with the foot in an equinus (E) Contralateral studies may make MR
position evaluation unnecessary.
59. Which of the following statements regarding 60. Informed consent may be legally obtained from
normal first ray function and anatomy are true? which of the following? Select the three that
Select the three that apply. apply.
(A) The first ray axis has a supinatory-pronatory (A) A geriatric patient
nature. (B) A legal guardian
(B) The first ray consists of the first metatarsal (C) A 19-year-old patient
and proximal phalanx. (D) An intoxicated patient
(C) Inversion and adduction motions are coupled (E) A minor patient
with dorsiflexion of the first ray.
(D) The first ray axis orientation runs from
posteromedial and dorsal to anterolateral
and plantar.
(E) The fibularis (peroneus) longus stabilizes the
first ray against the lesser tarsus and ground
in midstance.
PRACTICE TEST 1
ANSWER KEYS AND RATIONALES
PRACTICE TEST 2
ANSWER KEYS AND RATIONALES
Sequence: Key
33 C
Maintaining the hinge axis for a metatarsal basilar
osteotomy is critical to provide another point of
stabilization.
43 Practice Test 2
Sequence: Key
58 ABC
In talipes equinovarus, the increase in the talo-first
metatarsal angle from the normal range of 0° to -20°
is due to the adductus of the forefoot, while the
decrease in the talocalcaneal angle from the normal
range of 20° to 50° reflects the inversion (varus) of
the heel.
45 Practice Test 3
PRACTICE TEST 3
ANSWER KEYS AND RATIONALES
Sequence: Key
11 A
Tetanus toxoid immunization booster administration
is recommended every 10 years by the CDC.
Practice Test 3 46
Sequence: Key
58 ADE
In this case, the os tibiale externum is a normal
finding. A smooth rounded appearance categorizes
this ossicle as type I and disassociates it from the
flatfoot deformity. When there is doubt about normal
anatomical x-ray findings, contralateral studies can
eliminate the need for MRI.
NATIONAL BOARD
OF
PODIATRIC MEDICAL EXAMINERS
PART II
Clinical Science Examination
PRACTICE TEST 1
The Part II Practice Tests are representative of the content covered in the Part II Examination. They
include question formats found in the actual examination. They also include questions of varying
difficulty. A candidate’s performance on a Practice Test does not guarantee similar performance on
the actual examination.
60 questions
Directions: Each of the questions or incomplete statements below is followed by four suggested answers or
completions. Select the one that is best in each case.
NOTE: Throughout this test, the term “medial oblique foot” refers to a non-weight-bearing medial oblique position
in which the film is flat on the orthoposer, the medial side of the foot is closest to the film and the sole forms a 45°
angulation with the film, and the central beam is 90° to the film (the tubehead is angulated 0°). The converse is true
for the term “lateral oblique.”
1. Venous stasis ulcers of the lower extremities 5. Which of the following imaging modalities results
usually respond best to which of the following in no ionizing radiation exposure to the patient?
types of treatment?
(A) CT scan
(A) Oral antibiotics (B) MRI
(B) Topical antibiotics (C) Xeroradiography
(C) Arterial revascularization (D) Technetium bone scan
(D) Compressive contact dressings
6. One week after the application of a short leg
2. Hemoglobin A1c is most useful in the evaluation fiberglass cast, a patient complains of pain and
of which of the following conditions? burning in her right foot. Homans’ sign is
(A) Diabetes mellitus positive. Her past medical history is
(B) Diabetes insipidus unremarkable with the exception of a 15-year
(C) Adrenal cortical hyperplasia history of cigarette smoking (1 pack per day) and
(D) Hyperparathyroidism oral contraceptive use. The cast is removed and
the leg is noted to be hot, red, and indurated with
3. The most common location for an Achilles tendon superficial venous engorgement. Which of the
rupture is following is the most appropriate preliminary
diagnosis?
(A) the myotendinous juncture
(B) the posterior aspect of the calcaneus (A) Phlebothrombosis
(C) 2 to 6 cm proximal to its insertion (B) Deep vein thrombosis
(D) 8 to 10 cm proximal to its insertion (C) Superficial thrombophlebitis
(D) Thromboangiitis obliterans
4. A stratum granulosum is found in which of the
following anatomical locations? 7. A hemi-implant is used with the Keller procedure
primarily to
(A) Plantar skin
(B) Hair (A) establish intrinsic muscular stability
(C) Nail bed (B) reestablish the function of the flexor hallucis
(D) Oral mucosa brevis
(C) reestablish normal range of motion
(D) act as a spacer following bone removal
8. Twenty minutes into a procedure, a patient 12. A 10-year-old girl is brought to a hospital
develops laryngoedema, loses consciousness, and emergency department. She is seen by a podiatric
becomes cyanotic. Which of the following is the physician for treatment of a large abscess on the
most likely diagnosis? dorsum of the foot, where she was bitten by an
(A) Vasovagal attack insect 3 days ago. Physical examination reveals a
(B) Anaphylaxis temperature of 103°F with a grade IV/VI
(C) Insulin-induced hypoglycemia holosystolic murmur radiating all over the chest
(D) Myocardial infarction wall. In this situation, it would be most
appropriate for the podiatric physician to do which
9. The most common adverse reaction to intravenous of the following?
sedation with morphine is (A) Request a cardiac consultation and take no
(A) hypertension further action until the consultation
(B) anaphylaxis (B) Order an echocardiogram and take no further
(C) respiratory depression action until the results are reviewed
(D) renal failure (C) Take prophylactic measures for endocarditis
and proceed with surgery
10. The running gait cycle differs from the walking (D) Admit the patient to the hospital, begin
gait cycle in that the runner intravenous antibiotics, and wait for a stat.
cardiac consultation before taking further
(A) supinates rather than pronates at heel contact action
(B) pronates during the propulsive phase of gait
(C) does not have a double support phase of gait 13. Podiatric services that are eligible for payment
(D) does not have a float phase of gait under Medicare are determined by which of the
following?
11. If a skin incision is made directly over a tendon,
there is an increased risk of (A) The state insurance commission
(B) The state podiatric medical association
(A) adhesion (C) The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid
(B) infection Services
(C) synovitis (D) The American Podiatric Medical Association
(D) skin slough
14. Which of the following is true with respect to
magnetic resonance imaging of the Achilles
tendon?
(A) The normal diameter generally does not
exceed 5 mm.
(B) Close to the calcaneal insertion, the anterior
aspect is convex in the axial view.
(C) The signal intensity is normally isointense
with muscle on a T2-weighted image.
(D) A high intratendinous signal intensity on a
heavily water-weighted image is suggestive
of an acute rupture or injury.
15. Secondary radiographic findings of a subtalar joint 20. A 12-year-old patient presents with arch pain.
coalition include all of the following EXCEPT Gait evaluation reveals hyperpronation throughout
(A) talar beaking the stance phase of gait. Resting calcaneal stance
(B) loss of sinus tarsi position is 2 degrees valgus. Radiographic
(C) increased calcaneal inclination angle evaluation reveals an anterior break in the cyma
(D) blunting of the lateral process of the talus line and an increased Kite's angle. This patient
most likely has
16. In a 75-year-old patient with bowel incontinence (A) a flexible flatfoot
and an infected heel decubitus ulcer, which of the (B) a clubfoot deformity
following is the most likely pathogen? (C) a cavovarus foot
(A) Escherichia coli (D) an equinovarus foot
(B) Bacteroides fragilis
(C) Neisseria gonorrhoeae 21. The primary goal of implant surgery of the first
(D) Pseudomonas aeruginosa metatarsophalangeal joint is to
(A) eliminate joint pain
17. The four elements of the tort of medical (B) improve joint motion
malpractice are (C) increase the stability of the first ray
(A) duty, breach, causation, abandonment (D) preserve the plantar intrinsic musculature
(B) duty, breach, causation, damages
(C) duty, consent, causation, damages 22. A 2-year-old child presents with symptoms of
(D) duty, standard, relationship, damages jaundice, chronic anemia, and episodes of
abdominal, back, and limb pain. The child's
18. A wet-to-dry dressing for an infected wound is symptoms seem to be precipitated by dehydration.
used primarily to Physical examination reveals swelling of the
hands and feet. Treatment consists of fluid
(A) cover the wound in order to prevent further maintenance and the administration of analgesics.
contamination This case description is characteristic of
(B) apply antibacterial solutions to the wound
(C) mechanically debride the wound (A) juvenile diabetes
(D) keep the wound moist (B) juvenile arthritis
(C) sickle cell anemia
19. In an anteroposterior radiographic view, a (D) collagen disease
talonavicular articulation of less than 70 percent is
a sign of 23. Which of the following provides the best
compression and alignment for an Austin
(A) pronation bunionectomy?
(B) supination
(C) metatarsus adductus (A) Cerclage wire
(D) skew foot (B) Threaded Kirschner wire
(C) Cancellous screws
(D) Orthosorb pins
25. The female athlete triad is composed of 29. The inflammatory arthritis associated with
hemophilia most commonly affects which of the
(A) eating disorders, stress fractures, and
following joints?
infections
(B) eating disorders, amenorrhea, and (A) Shoulder
osteoporosis (B) Hip
(C) amenorrhea, stress fractures, and infections (C) Knee
(D) osteoporosis, stress fractures, and increased (D) Metatarsophalangeal
incidence of endometrial cancer
30. The Thompson test is useful in the detection of
26. A 5-year-old boy presents with a slight equinus
(A) an Achilles tendon rupture
deformity. His parents state that he has had a
(B) a calcaneofibular ligament sprain
tight gastrocnemius-soleus complex ever since he
(C) an anterior talofibular ligament sprain
was an infant. He appears to be a healthy,
(D) a bucket handle tear of the medial meniscus
well-nourished, and well-developed child.
Duchenne type muscular dystrophy is suspected.
31. A 52-year-old man experienced pain in his
All of the following tests would provide useful
left arm, chest, and jaw for 5 minutes. He
information relative to this diagnosis EXCEPT
took nitroglycerin sublingually with no relief.
(A) a muscle biopsy He is taken to the emergency department where
(B) a muscle strength evaluation it is determined that he has had an acute
(C) a genetic screening for a sex-linked recessive myocardial infarction. Which of the following is
disorder a life-threatening dysrhythmia he will most likely
(D) an acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibody experience during the first hour following the
test myocardial infarction?
(A) Atrial flutter
27. A runner presents with a history of posteromedial
(B) Atrial fibrillation
shin splints due to overuse of the deep posterior
(C) Ventricular flutter
muscles of the leg as a compensation for a
(D) Ventricular fibrillation
structurally long limb on the involved side.
Evaluation of the patient's shoe wear pattern on
32. The nutrient artery of the first metatarsal enters
the involved side would reveal
the midshaft
(A) excessive lateral forefoot outsole wear
(A) medially
(B) heel counter tipping medially in a valgus
(B) laterally
position
(C) dorsally
(C) compression of the lateral rearfoot midsole
(D) plantarly
(D) abnormal wear of the uppers in the region of
the fifth digit due to lateral crowding
33. An asymptomatic, fragmented, irregular, sclerotic,
calcaneal apophysis in an 8 year old is most
28. In a nursing home population of 200, 12 people
indicative of
are diagnosed with onychomycosis in one year. In
the first 4 months of the next year, 5 more people (A) Köhler's disease
are diagnosed with onychomycosis. What is the (B) calcaneal apophysitis
incidence rate for the second year? (C) a nonunion fracture
(D) a normal anatomic variant
(A) 5/17
(B) 12/17
(C) 5/200
(D) 17/200
34. Somatization disorder is a neurotic illness 38. A 56-year-old woman is seen for pain involving
characterized by all of the following EXCEPT her right ankle. The patient reports no specific
traumatic incident. Recently she has noticed mild-
(A) weakness and paralysis of muscle groups
to-moderate pain across her midfoot and her ankle
(B) dramatic, emotional presentation of
with increased activity. Physical examination
complaints
reveals pain and swelling along the medial ankle.
(C) multiple, vague complaints referable to any
On the single heel rise test, she is unable to invert
part of the body
the right hindfoot. On weight bearing, the right
(D) dissatisfaction with care from one physician
forefoot is abducted on the rearfoot and the arch
to the next
appears to flatten significantly more on the right
foot than on the left. Which of the following
35. A patient with a long-standing varicose ulcer over
therapies would NOT be appropriate?
the medial malleolus is at higher risk for the
development of which of the following within the (A) Steroid injection
ulcer? (B) Walking brace/boot
(C) Prescription foot orthosis
(A) Melanoma
(D) Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
(B) Hemangioma
(NSAIDs)
(C) Basal cell carcinoma
(D) Squamous cell carcinoma
39. Neuromuscular causes of cavus foot include all of
the following EXCEPT
36. Which of the following cells normally develops
into a macrophage when it infiltrates tissue? (A) cerebral palsy
(B) myelomeningocele
(A) Monocyte
(C) muscular dystrophy
(B) Mast cell
(D) Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease
(C) Lymphocyte
(D) Basophil
40. The presence of Bence Jones proteins in the urine
is diagnostic of
37. Yellow discoloration of radiographic film is most
likely due to inadequate (A) amyloidosis
(B) multiple myeloma
(A) development
(C) monoclonal gammopathy
(B) fixation
(D) Waldenström's macroglobulinemia
(C) mAs
(D) kVp
41. Which of the following is a periosteal elevator?
(A) Sayre
(B) Hohmann
(C) Weitlaner
(D) Seeburger
42. A 23-year-old man is seen in the emergency 46. Which of the following fractures has the best
department for a diagnosed right ankle prognosis?
fracture/dislocation. Vascular evaluation reveals
(A) Rowe type Ia
an absence of all pulses below the knee. Closed
(B) Rowe type IV
reduction is not successful. The patient has just
(C) Rowe joint depression
eaten a large meal. Assuming a thigh tourniquet
(D) Essex-Lopresti joint depression
will be used, what is the most appropriate type of
anesthesia for this patient? 47. A 6 year old presents with a painful ankle injury
(A) Spinal of 3 days’ duration. There is swelling and pain on
(B) Local infiltration direct palpation of the lateral malleolus. X-rays
(C) General (inhalation anesthesia) are unremarkable. Which of the following would
(D) Intravenous sedation be the treatment of choice?
(A) A short leg cast
43. The minimal acceptable treatment for a diastasis (B) An Ace bandage
of the ankle joint would include which of the (C) Ligamentous repair
following? (D) Activity, as tolerated
(A) Low Dye strapping with a crossover J
(B) A reinforced Unna's boot and a surgical shoe 48. Which of the following statements about Lyme
(C) Internal fixation disease is true?
(D) Immobilization with a short leg cast (A) The disease is transmitted via feline to human
contact.
44. In radiology, the Harris-Beath (calcaneal axial) (B) The diagnostic test of choice is the
projections are indicated to determine the presence erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR).
of a talocalcaneal coalition that involves which of (C) The drug of choice is metronidazole.
the following anatomic locations? (D) The most commonly associated dermatologic
(A) Anterior facet only lesion is erythema chronicum migrans.
(B) Posterior facet only
(C) Anterior and middle facets 49. A runner who twisted her ankle 6 months ago still
(D) Middle and posterior facets has ankle pain and an occasional sensation of the
ankle giving way and locking. She has no
45. Which of the following is normally associated apparent swelling or pain on range of motion. The
with Paget's disease? most likely diagnosis is
(A) Increased osteoblast activity only (A) sinus tarsi syndrome
(B) Increased osteoblast and osteoclast activity (B) osteochondral talar dome fracture
(C) Decreased serum alkaline phosphatase levels (C) synovitis of the fibular (peroneal) tendons
(D) A male-to-female ratio of occurrence of 4:1 (D) fracture of the os trigonum
50. Pyoderma gangrenosum is most often found in 55. Which of the following tumors is associated with
individuals with which of the following diseases? night pain that is relieved by salicylates?
(A) Ulcerative colitis (A) Osteoblastoma
(B) Sarcoidosis (B) Chondroblastoma
(C) Lupus erythematosus (C) Osteoid osteoma
(D) Psoriasis (D) Chondromyxoid fibroma
51. Which of the following ligaments is most 56. A podiatric physician can best minimize drug
commonly damaged in an inversion sprain of the interactions by
ankle?
(A) limiting the number of prescription refills
(A) Anterior talofibular (B) performing an adequate physical examination
(B) Posterior talofibular (C) taking a thorough medical history
(C) Calcaneofibular (D) ordering appropriate laboratory tests
(D) Deltoid
57. Which of the following is an inhibitor of
52. Radiographic findings indicative of Freiberg's prostaglandins?
infraction are initial joint-space
(A) Aspirin
(A) widening followed by a long-term increase in (B) Warfarin
subchondral bone density (C) Insulin
(B) widening with no long-term effect on (D) Heparin
subchondral bone density
(C) narrowing followed by a long-term increase 58. Which of the following is the most common
in subchondral bone density postoperative infective organism in podiatric
(D) narrowing with no long-term effect on surgery?
subchondral bone density
(A) Streptococcus
(B) Pseudomonas
53. Multiple sclerosis is characterized by all of the
(C) Staphylococcus
following signs and symptoms EXCEPT
(D) Clostridium
(A) ataxia
(B) impaired vision
(C) bladder dysfunction
(D) fibular (peroneal) muscular atrophy
PART II
Clinical Science Examination
PRACTICE TEST 2
The Part II Practice Tests are representative of the content covered in the Part II Examination. They
include question formats found in the actual examination. They also include questions of varying
difficulty. A candidate’s performance on a Practice Test does not guarantee similar performance on
the actual examination.
60 questions
Directions: Each of the questions or incomplete statements below is followed by four suggested answers or
completions. Select the one that is best in each case.
NOTE: Throughout this test, the term “medial oblique foot” refers to a non-weight-bearing medial oblique position
in which the film is flat on the orthoposer, the medial side of the foot is closest to the film and the sole forms a 45°
angulation with the film, and the central beam is 90° to the film (the tubehead is angulated 0°). The converse is true
for the term “lateral oblique.”
1. Which of the following diagnostic tests is 5. Which of the following agents is associated with
appropriate for a patient with suspected herpes drug-induced systemic lupus erythematosus?
simplex on the foot?
(A) Procainamide
(A) Gram’s stain (B) Lidocaine
(B) Tzanck smear (C) Bupivacaine
(C) Ova and parasite smear (D) Etidocaine
(D) Dermatophyte test medium (DTM)
6. In a histologic section of normal skin of the
dorsal foot, melanocytes are located
2. Which of the following is associated with an
increased incidence of osteosarcoma? (A) in the cornified layer
(B) in the subcutaneous fat
(A) Paget's disease
(C) deep in the reticular dermis
(B) Ankylosing spondylitis
(D) in the basal cell layer of the epidermis
(C) Rheumatoid arthritis
(D) Osteomalacia
7. A 23-year-old runner presents with anterior leg
pain that has been present for 3 weeks and is
3. The best modality to confirm an osseous subtalar
greatest when running on hills. Pain is elicited on
joint coalition is
palpation of the anterior aspect of the lower leg,
(A) a bone scan lateral to the anterior crest of the tibia. The most
(B) a CT scan likely diagnosis is
(C) an MRI
(A) peroneal tendinitis
(D) tomography
(B) anterior shin splints
(C) iliotibial band syndrome
4. A 68-year-old woman undergoes a complex
(D) anterior tibial compartment syndrome
reconstructive rearfoot surgical procedure
with general anesthesia without complication.
Within 48 hours the patient develops dyspnea,
tachypnea, and a temperature of 101.5°F. Which
of the following is the most likely diagnosis?
(A) Septicemia
(B) Pulmonary emboli
(C) Deep vein thrombosis
(D) Acute appendicitis
8. Which of the following is a chronic inflammatory 13. Differential diagnosis of Kaposi's sarcoma
disease characterized by proliferative synovitis includes
with subsequent bony erosion and destruction of
(A) stasis dermatitis
the articular cartilage?
(B) hypertrophic lichen planus
(A) Gouty arthritis (C) malignant melanoma
(B) Osteoarthritis (D) dyshidrotic eczema
(C) Rheumatoid arthritis
(D) Psoriatic arthritis 14. Which of the following bone lesions is
characterized by dense bone surrounding a lytic
9. A 45-year-old overweight patient with a pes central nidus?
planus deformity reports “aching” pain at the
(A) Giant cell tumor
tuberosity of the navicular that has progressed
(B) Aneurysmal bone cyst
over the past 3 months. Radiographs show an
(C) Osteoid osteoma
enlarged navicular medially without fracture.
(D) Osteosarcoma
The patient wears poorly supported shoes to work
at a department store. The podiatric physician’s
15. In a patient with bacterial endocarditis who has
next step should be
no known allergies, the most appropriate
(A) foot and ankle strapping, a nonsteroidal anti- prophylactic drug is
inflammatory drug (NSAID), and a
(A) tetracycline
discussion about shoes
(B) gentamicin
(B) a short leg non-weight-bearing cast for
(C) erythromycin
6 weeks
(D) amoxicillin
(C) an Unna's boot for 4 weeks with ice and
elevation
16. Semi-weight-bearing impression foam foot
(D) a technetium-99m 3-phase bone scan
castings are most appropriate for which of the
following?
10. A patient manifests a serpiginous eruption on the
dorsal aspect of the foot that is successfully (A) Rigid foot with fixed deformity
treated with topical thiabendazole. Which of the (B) Flexible flatfoot deformity
following is the most likely diagnosis? (C) Flexible cavus foot deformity
(D) Hypermobile first ray deformity
(A) Tuberculosis verrucosa cutis
(B) Erythema nodosum leprosum
17. When a soft-tissue lesion on the foot is excised,
(C) Cutaneous larva migrans
the standard length-to-width ratio for the
(D) Erosio interdigitalis blastomycetica
incision is
11. Which of the following is true of Sever’s disease? (A) 2:1
(B) 3:1
(A) It rarely affects females.
(C) 3:2
(B) It is a self-limiting disease.
(D) 5:2
(C) Ecchymosis and edema are pathognomonic.
(D) X-rays reveal a crescent sign in the Achilles
18. Which of the following is a muscle that directly
tendon.
prevents the longitudinal arch from collapsing?
12. The Bunnell technique is used for (A) Abductor hallucis
(B) Plantar aponeurosis
(A) tenorrhaphy
(C) Fibularis (peroneus) longus
(B) arthrodesis
(D) Posterior tibial
(C) capsulodesis
(D) capsulorrhaphy
19. Following lesser digital arthroplasty, the digit should be splinted in which of the following positions?
Metatarsophalangeal Proximal Interphalangeal Distal Interphalangeal
Joint Joint Joint
(A) Dorsiflexed Straight Straight
(B) Dorsiflexed Plantarflexed Straight
(C) Slightly Plantarflexed Straight Straight
(D) Slightly Plantarflexed Plantarflexed Plantarflexed
20. Which of the following is (are) most sensitive to 25. In addition to gloves, OSHA-designated personal
radiation? protective equipment includes
(A) Spermatogonia (A) gowns and eye protection
(B) Neutrophils (B) steam sterilizers and masks
(C) Neurons (C) self-sheathing needles and gowns
(D) Skin (D) sharps containers and eye protection
21. On a lateral radiograph, a decreased calcaneal 26. A patient with a painful limb, who will be using a
inclination angle with an increased talar single cane, should be instructed to use the cane
declination angle would indicate
(A) with the elbow fully extended
(A) supination of the foot (B) in a manner to shift weight away from the
(B) pronation of the foot cane
(C) talipes equinovarus (C) on the side opposite the painful/injured side
(D) metatarsus adductus (D) angled away from the body about 40 degrees
22. Radiographic subject contrast is best controlled 27. Serial casting is likely to be successful in the
by the manipulation of treatment of all of the following EXCEPT
(A) kVp (A) metatarsus adductus
(B) mAs (B) calcaneovalgus
(C) source-to-image distance (C) windswept deformity
(D) developer temperature (D) congenital vertical talus
23. Which of the following Salter-Harris fractures 28. Which of the following tendons is found plantar
has the best prognosis? to the deep transverse metatarsal ligament?
(A) I (A) Lumbrical tendon
(B) II (B) Abductor tendon
(C) III (C) Plantar interosseous tendon
(D) IV (D) Dorsal interosseous tendon
29. A podiatric physician is examining a 57-year-old 34. The formation of Heberden’s nodes at distal
patient who has a 21-year history of poorly interphalangeal joints is associated with
controlled diabetes mellitus. A neurosensory (A) osteoarthritis
examination reveals a loss of proprioception. (B) rheumatoid arthritis
Further examination of the patient would most (C) systemic lupus erythematosus
likely reveal a (D) ankylosing spondylitis
(A) symmetric absence of deep tendon reflexes
(B) loss of protective sensation with 10-gram 35. Which of the following local anesthetics is NOT
monofilament recommended for use in children under 12 years
(C) loss of sharp-dull discrimination of age?
(D) plantar reflex with a bilateral flexion (A) Lidocaine
response (B) Mepivacaine
(C) Bupivacaine
30. An individual can functionally increase limb (D) Procaine
length by
(A) dorsiflexing the ankle joint 36. A patient presents with a single, nonpruritic
(B) supinating the subtalar joint vesicle on the dorsum of the third toe. There is
(C) supinating the longitudinal midtarsal joint no history of trauma and the patient has not made
(D) pronating the oblique midtarsal joint any change in shoe gear. Inspection reveals an
umbilicated vesicle. The most likely diagnosis is
31. All of the following radiographic signs are (A) verruca plana
associated with excessive pronation EXCEPT (B) acute contact dermatitis
(A) obliteration of the sinus tarsi (C) molluscum contagiosum
(B) anterior displacement of the talus (D) bullous diabeticorum
(C) a talocalcaneal angle of 10°
(D) a metatarsus primus adductus angle of 20° 37. Which of the following is most characteristic of
venous stasis ulcerations?
32. Which of the following general anesthetics is (A) A punched-out border
most likely to sensitize the myocardium to (B) A gray mucoid base
catecholamines? (C) A red, granulating base
(A) Enflurane (D) Pain
(B) Isoflurane
(C) Halothane 38. The most prominent physical finding of
(D) Nitrous oxide right-sided congestive heart failure is
(A) S3 gallop
33. A Young procedure performed on the tibialis (B) rapid breathing
anterior is best described as (C) moist rales in the lungs
(A) tendon transfer (D) lower extremity dependent edema
(B) tendon translocation
(C) tendon lengthening 39. In a flexor tendon transfer for hammer toe
(D) tenolysis correction, the flexor tendon is inserted into the
(A) plantar aspect of the distal phalanx
(B) plantar aspect of the middle phalanx
(C) dorsal aspect of the proximal phalanx
(D) dorsal aspect of the middle phalanx
40. Which of the following statements applies to a 44. In a lateral osteochondral talar dome fracture, the
podiatric physician who suspects that an elderly most common mechanism of injury is
patient has been abused? (A) inversion, plantarflexion
(A) The podiatric physician should report the (B) inversion, dorsiflexion
suspicion only if he or she is convinced (C) eversion, plantarflexion
beyond a reasonable doubt that abuse has (D) eversion, dorsiflexion
occurred.
(B) The podiatric physician should report the 45. Which of the following is associated with
suspicion as a matter of moral but not legal normochromic, normocytic anemia?
obligation. (A) Iron deficiency
(C) The podiatric physician may be criminally (B) Hemolysis
liable for failure to report the suspicion. (C) Folate deficiency
(D) The podiatric physician may not report the (D) Lead poisoning
suspicion because of the doctor-patient
privilege. 46. A patient with 3º forefoot valgus was casted for
functional orthoses, but the negative cast
41. An orthopedic shoe with a steel shank from heel reflected 10º of forefoot valgus. This most likely
to toe and a rocker bar would be appropriate for occurred because the clinician
treating
(A) supinated the long axis of the midtarsal joint
(A) drop foot (B) dorsiflexed the fourth and fifth
(B) spastic flatfoot metatarsophalangeal joints
(C) flexible hammer toes (C) pronated the subtalar joint when locking the
(D) an arthritic ankle and subtalar joint midtarsal joint
(D) did not check to make sure the patient was
42. Which of the following is a true statement about not contracting the anterior tibial muscle
healing by first intention?
(A) It implies suppuration or necrosis. 47. A 35-year-old patient fell from the roof of a
(B) It involves excessive formation of house and sustained a fracture of the talus.
granulation tissue. X-rays reveal fracture of the talar neck and
(C) It profoundly diminishes the strength of the dislocation of the talar body from the ankle
surgical wound. mortise and subtalar joint. Which of the
(D) It is demonstrated in the closure of an following describes this type of fracture and the
uncomplicated skin incision. most likely complication associated with it?
(A) Berndt-Harty stage II fracture with a severe
43. A patient is experiencing anterior leg pain. On risk of osteochondritis
examination of muscle strength, the anterior (B) Stewart type III fracture with a slight risk of
compartment muscles are graded 3/5. Which of avascular necrosis
the following nerves is most likely responsible (C) Hawkins type III fracture with a high risk of
for this finding? avascular necrosis
(A) Tibial (D) Sanders fracture (Tongue type) with a risk of
(B) Saphenous degenerative arthritis
(C) Deep fibular (peroneal)
(D) Superficial fibular (peroneal)
48. Which of the following conditions may cause 51. Thrombophlebitis of the small veins frequently
delayed relaxation of Achilles tendon reflexes? occurs with intravenous administration of
(A) Diabetes (A) diazepam
(B) Porphyria (B) propofol
(C) Alcoholism (C) droperidol
(D) Hypothyroidism (D) fentanyl
49. A 33-year-old woman presents with heat 52. Which of the following is the correct ventilation-
intolerance headaches and excessive sweating of to-chest-compression ratio in one-rescuer CPR?
2 months’ duration. She has a visible hand (A) 2 ventilations : 3 chest compressions
tremor and her handwriting is uneven. She jogs (B) 2 ventilations : 15 chest compressions
5 miles a day, 5 times a week. Over the past (C) 4 ventilations : 8 chest compressions
2 months her tolerance for exercise and her (D) 8 ventilations : 15 chest compressions
running times have decreased. Physical
examination reveals a thin, well-developed and 53. Generalized subperiosteal bone resorption is
anxious woman. The patient's blood pressure is characteristic of
130/50 mm Hg and her pulse is 120. Ocular
inspection reveals lid retraction and stare. She (A) osteomalacia
also presents with proximal muscle weakness. (B) hyperparathyroidism
Examination of the neck reveals diffuse (C) osteoporosis
enlargement of the thyroid and audible bruit. (D) osteosarcoma
There is no history of drug intake. Which of the
following is the most likely diagnosis? 54. Unusual infections such as Mycobacterium
avium-intracellulare are commonly seen in
(A) Subacute thyroiditis association with
(B) Exogenous thyroid hormone
(C) Graves’ disease (A) HIV
(D) Multinodular goiter (B) pelvic inflammatory disease
(C) sarcoidosis
50. Emergency treatment of an acute myocardial (D) cystic fibrosis
infarction includes all of the following EXCEPT
55. In a prospective epidemiologic study of a disease,
(A) thrombolysis the cohort originally selected consists of persons
(B) heparin
(C) warfarin (A) with the disease
(D) angioplasty (B) without the disease
(C) with a family history of the disease
(D) without a family history of the disease
56. Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of The next 2 questions refer to the following
plantar fasciitis? information.
(A) Post-static dyskinesia
(B) A tight gastrocnemius-soleus complex A 40-year-old African-American man presents with
(C) Pain at the medial plantar aspect of the an injury to his right foot sustained 5 days ago when
calcaneus a heavy sheet of glass fell onto the top of his foot.
(D) Occurrence in boys between the ages of An examination reveals a laceration over the first
4 and 7 years metatarsophalangeal joint with erythema, edema, and
drainage. A loss of active dorsiflexion of the first
57. The patellar reflex is largely mediated by which metatarsophalangeal joint is noted, indicating that
of the following nerve roots? some tendon damage may have occurred. The patient
has not had past tetanus immunization.
(A) L1-L2
(B) L3-L4
(C) L5-S1 59. Conservative treatment fails and surgery is
(D) S2-S3 performed. Three days postoperatively, the
patient presents with pain. Physical examination
58. Which of the following medications is most reveals severe localized edema, erythema,
likely to contribute to the formation of a deep serosanguineous drainage, induration, and pain
vein thrombosis? on palpation. The most likely diagnosis is
(A) Multivitamins with zinc (A) hematoma
(B) Oral contraceptives (B) causalgia
(C) Enteric-coated aspirin (C) Freiberg's infraction
(D) Dipyridamole (D) normal postoperative course
PART II
Clinical Science Examination
PRACTICE TEST 3
The Part II Practice Tests are representative of the content covered in the Part II Examination.
They include question formats found in the actual examination. They also include questions of
varying difficulty. A candidate’s performance on a Practice Test does not guarantee similar
performance on the actual examination.
60 questions
Directions: Each of the questions or incomplete statements below is followed by four suggested answers or completions.
Select the one that is best in each case.
NOTE: Throughout this test, the term “medial oblique foot” refers to a non-weight-bearing medial oblique position in
which the film is flat on the orthoposer, the medial side of the foot is closest to the film and the sole forms a 45°
angulation with the film, and the central beam is 90° to the film (the tubehead is angulated 0°). The converse is true for
the term “lateral oblique.”
3. When griseofulvin is prescribed, it is important to 7. In the normal development of the foot, the center
perform which of the following tests in addition of ossification appears last in the
to a complete blood cell count (CBC)?
(A) talus
(A) Culture and sensitivity (B) calcaneus
(B) KOH or fungal culture (C) lateral cuneiform
(C) Wood's light examination (D) navicular
(D) Gram's stain
8. Which of the following types of padding would
4. Which of the following is a postoperative be best for an arthritic hammer toe?
nonadherent dressing utilized in immediate
(A) A metatarsal pad
wound care?
(B) A crest pad
(A) Adaptic dressing (C) A Morton's pad
(B) Kerlix fluff dressing (D) A heel-lift pad
(C) Kling roller bandage dressing
(D) Sterile 4" x 4" gauze dressing
9. True acquired clubbing of the fingernails is 13. An avulsion fracture of the anterior process of the
associated with which of the following diseases? calcaneus is associated with which of the
following ligaments?
(A) Lung cancer
(B) Osteoarthritis (A) Spring
(C) Rheumatoid arthritis (B) Bifurcate
(D) Ulcerative colitis (C) Long plantar
(D) Interosseous talocalcaneal
10. Chemical exposure in the podiatric laboratory is
controlled by the 14. Which of the following radiographic findings is
most consistent with chronic tophaceous gout?
(A) Public Health Service
(B) National Institutes of Health (A) Osteopenia
(C) Drug Enforcement Agency (B) Osteophytosis
(D) Occupational Safety and Health (C) Early joint destruction
Administration (D) Large bony erosions
11. Adverse reactions associated with nonsteroidal 15. Which of the following types of Salter-Harris
anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) include all of epiphyseal injuries do NOT involve a fracture
the following EXCEPT through the metaphysis?
(A) nausea (A) I and II
(B) interstitial nephritis (B) I and III
(C) respiratory depression (C) II and III
(D) peptic ulcer disease (D) III and IV
12. A 45-year-old man presents with a history of pain 16. In the 18- to 30-year-old age group, the most
in the medial aspect of the right ankle and foot common infective organism in septic arthritis is
for the past 6 months. The pain has become (A) Staphylococcus epidermidis
progressively worse and causes the patient to (B) Staphylococcus aureus
limp at the end of the workday. The pain is sharp (C) Haemophilus influenzae
at times; otherwise it is a throbbing, aching pain. (D) Neisseria gonorrhea
Examination findings are pain on palpation
posterior and proximal to the medial malleolus 17. Which of the following blood tests measures the
and also at the tuberosity of the navicular and coagulation time via the intrinsic pathway?
stance heel valgus with a collapse of the
longitudinal arch. The remaining examination is (A) Bleeding time
unremarkable. To form a treatment plan, it (B) Sedimentation rate
would be most helpful for the podiatric physician (C) Prothrombin time (PT)/INR
to review the results of (D) Partial thromboplastin time (PTT)
(A) an MRI 18. A Charcot joint is caused by
(B) a CT scan
(C) a soft tissue ultrasound (A) motor neuropathy
(D) an EMG/NCV study (B) sensory neuropathy
(C) vascular insufficiency
(D) dystrophic ulceration
19. The Hoffman-Clayton procedure is most 23. Pulmonary embolism is most definitively
commonly indicated for which of the following diagnosed by
conditions? (A) pulmonary angiography
(A) Pes cavus (B) ventilation perfusion scans
(B) Hallux valgus (C) chest x-ray studies
(C) Hammer toe (D) arterial blood gas studies
(D) Rheumatoid arthritis
24. A 68-year-old man reports coldness and
20. Which of the following is the usual mechanism of numbness of both feet for the past 6 months and
injury in football turf-toe injuries to the first leg pain with increased activity that is relieved
metatarsophalangeal joint complex? with rest. Physical examination shows absent DP
and PT pulses. Subpapillary venous filling time
(A) Hyperextension with compression
is more than 8 seconds in all digits. The skin of
(B) Hyperflexion with tension
both feet is cool to the touch, shiny, and pale, and
(C) Hyperflexion with shear
there is a lack of digital hair growth. Doppler and
(D) Axial load on the sesamoid complex
plethysmography show minimal blood flow to
both feet and lower legs. The likely diagnosis is
21. A 35-year-old patient with rheumatoid arthritis
has a severe hallux valgus deformity with a (A) arterial embolism
dislocated first metatarsophalangeal joint. She (B) arteriosclerosis obliterans
takes ibuprofen, prednisone, and methotrexate for (C) dissecting aortic aneurysm
the arthritis and has a severe penicillin allergy. (D) Raynaud's phenomenon
Her bunion-last, extra-depth shoes no longer
relieve her symptoms and she requests surgical 25. Which of the following findings should be
intervention. The podiatric physician decides to expected in a 14-year-old patient with congenital
perform a first metatarsophalangeal joint fusion soleus equinus?
under general anesthesia using internal fixation. (A) Limited dorsiflexion of the ankle with the
In addition to a complete blood cell count (CBC) knee flexed and extended
and a urinalysis, preoperative studies should (B) Limited dorsiflexion of the ankle with the
include knee extended but not flexed
(A) a thyroid profile (C) Normal dorsiflexion of the ankle with the
(B) cervical radiographs knee flexed but not extended
(C) patch testing for other antibiotic allergies (D) Normal dorsiflexion of the ankle with the
(D) muscle biopsy to evaluate her potential for knee extended but not flexed
malignant hyperthermia with general
anesthesia 26. A 50-year-old patient presents with a tender mass
on the lateral forefoot. A radiograph reveals an
22. Which of the following is a true statement about expansile “soap bubble” lesion in the fifth
gout? metatarsal. The most likely diagnosis is
(A) Acute septic joint disease mimics gout. (A) giant cell tumor
(B) Blood uric acid levels above 7 mg/dL are (B) osteochondroma
pathognomonic of gout. (C) Ewing’s sarcoma
(C) Early acute gout is best treated by uricosuric (D) unicameral bone cyst
agents.
(D) Salicylates are administered to potentiate the
effects of uricosuric agents.
27. When a dorsal wedge osteotomy is performed at 32. Postanesthesia headache is most likely to occur
the base of the third metatarsal, which after which of the following types of anesthesia?
interosseous muscle belly is first seen between
(A) Spinal
the second and third metatarsals?
(B) Local
(A) Second dorsal (C) Epidural
(B) Third dorsal (D) Subarachnoid
(C) Second plantar
(D) Third plantar 33. A 30-year-old patient is scheduled to have
major rearfoot reconstruction. The patient has
28. An abnormal “Q” angle is most commonly a history of asthma and is currently on an
associated with albuterol nebulizer and has taken prednisone,
7.5 milligrams, daily for the past 2 years. Prior
(A) anterior cruciate tears
to surgery, the podiatric physician should do
(B) posterior cruciate tears
which of the following?
(C) bucket handle meniscus tears
(D) patellar malalignment (A) Begin aspirin therapy 24 hours prior to
surgery.
29. A 40-year-old woman complains of a painful (B) Begin antibiotic prophylaxis to prevent
hammered hallux of the right foot. Examination endocarditis.
shows a rigid hammering of the interphalangeal (C) Increase the prednisone dose to at least
joint of the right hallux with an associated 20 milligrams per day.
flexible plantarflexed first ray. Which of the (D) Stop the prednisone 2 days prior to surgery
following is the most appropriate operation for to aid in wound healing.
this patient?
34. Which of the following steps should be followed
(A) Jones tenosuspension with interphalangeal
when an individual is using an automated
fusion
external defibrillator?
(B) Arthroplasty of the interphalangeal joint
(C) Dorsiflexory wedge osteotomy of the first (A) Wipe the patient's chest dry with alcohol.
metatarsal with interphalangeal fusion (B) Remove any medication patch prior to use.
(D) First metatarsophalangeal joint fusion (C) Place the pads over implantable devices.
(D) Delay use until after hypothermia, if present,
30. Penicillin dose adjustment must be considered is treated.
when
35. Chest compressions in infant cardiopulmonary
(A) renal excretion is impaired
resuscitation should be
(B) hepatic excretion is impaired
(C) hepatic metabolism is impaired (A) 0.5-1.0 inch
(D) oral absorption is increased (B) 1.0-1.5 inches
(C) 1.5-2.0 inches
31. An increased risk of deep vein thrombosis is (D) 2.0-2.5 inches
associated with
36. Which of the following skin lesions is derived
(A) diabetes mellitus
from a distinctive cell line of melanized cells?
(B) iron deficiency anemia
(C) polycythemia vera (A) Dermal nevus
(D) rheumatoid arthritis (B) Junctional nevus
(C) Compound nevus
(D) Blue nevus
37. Which of the following is NOT a side effect of 42. A 42-year-old patient is seen by a podiatric
glucocorticoids? physician 48 hours after an ankle sprain.
Examination reveals moderate to severe edema
(A) Psychosis
and moderate ecchymosis. Which of the
(B) Edema
following would be the best course of treatment?
(C) Hypokalemia
(D) Chronic active hepatitis (A) Primary repair
(B) Lateral ankle stabilization
38. A 60-year-old resident of a skilled nursing (C) A short leg weight-bearing cast
facility suffers from osteomyelitis of her (D) A Jones compression dressing, non-weight-
calcaneus. Her past medical history includes bearing
stroke syndrome, inability to swallow, and
chronic nasogastric tube feeding. She undergoes 43. In order to attain better x-ray penetration of the
a 2-hour procedure. Two days later the patient is tarsal bones and avoid an increase in the overall
noted to have fever with shortness of breath and film density the
production of fetid sputum. The most likely (A) kilovoltage and the mAs both must be
diagnosis is increased
(A) acute bronchitis (B) kilovoltage must be increased and the mAs
(B) atelectasis must be decreased
(C) aspiration pneumonia (C) kilovoltage must be decreased and the mAs
(D) pulmonary embolism must be increased
(D) kilovoltage and the mAs both must be
39. Hand-foot-and-mouth disease is a mild infectious decreased
disease of childhood caused by a
44. Two measurements used for the evaluation of
(A) staphylococcus bacteria
Haglund’s deformity are the
(B) streptococcus bacteria
(C) herpesvirus (A) parallel pitch lines and Böhler’s angle
(D) coxsackievirus (B) parallel pitch lines and the Fowler-Philip
angle
40. In normal radiographic anatomy, the lateral (C) Fowler-Philip angle and Böhler’s angle
(third) cuneiform bone is LEAST visible with (D) angle of Gissane and Böhler’s angle
which of the following standard pedal studies?
45. Which of the following materials would be
(A) Anteroposterior foot
LEAST appropriate for extrinsic posting of
(B) Lateral foot
functional orthotics?
(C) Medial oblique foot
(D) Lateral oblique foot (A) Acrylic
(B) Crepe
41. Bone healing with rigid internal fixation is (C) Cork
known as (D) Leather
(A) secondary bone healing
46. The ability of a test to give a negative finding
(B) periosteal bone healing
when the person screened is truly free of the
(C) primary bone healing
condition is called the test’s
(D) cartilage phase healing
(A) validity
(B) sensitivity
(C) specificity
(D) variation
47. Fog on a developed radiographic film most likely 51. A patient presents with a chief complaint of
indicates interdigital itching and maceration. Physical
examination reveals fissuring and maceration of
(A) a light leak
the third and fourth web spaces bilaterally. A
(B) excessive fixing
KOH preparation is performed and reveals
(C) low developer temperature
multiple budding pseudohyphae. The most likely
(D) weak developing solution
diagnosis is infection caused by
48. Statutes of limitations are determined by (A) Candida albicans
(B) Trichophyton rubrum
(A) state laws
(C) Trichophyton mentagrophytes
(B) state podiatry associations
(D) Corynebacterium minutissimum
(C) the Department of Justice
(D) the American Podiatric Medical Association
52. Which of the following dysplasias is
characterized by multiple bone islands in
49. Which of the following is an appropriate
periarticular areas?
treatment for a Salter-Harris type V fracture?
(A) Osteopetrosis
(A) An Ace bandage
(B) Osteogenesis imperfecta
(B) A functional orthosis
(C) Osteopoikilosis
(C) Casting immobilization
(D) Melorheostosis
(D) Open reduction internal fixation
53. Common precipitating triggers of asthma include
50. A 25-year-old runner presents with achy soreness
all of the following EXCEPT
poorly localized to the lateral border of the foot
and complains of something “going out of” and (A) smoke
“popping into” place. This condition has been (B) exercise
present for several months with periods of (C) dust mites
exacerbation and remission. The area is not (D) topical cortisone
warm or swollen and the patient has never
noticed edema or redness. Palpation localizes 54. In long bones, primary ossification occurs at
tenderness to the calcaneocuboid joint. The most which of the following sites?
likely diagnosis is (A) Metaphysis
(A) plantar fasciitis (B) Diaphysis
(B) a midtarsal stress fracture (C) Epiphysis
(C) cuboid subluxation syndrome (D) Metaphyseal-diaphyseal junction
(D) peroneal tendinitis
55. A patient who presents with an adducted, The next 2 questions refer to the following case.
toe-walking, scissor-type gait most likely has
(A) cerebral palsy A patient with a documented penicillin allergy
(B) muscular dystrophy inadvertently receives an intravenous infusion of
(C) multiple sclerosis cefazolin. The patient complains of shortness of
(D) amyotrophic lateral sclerosis breath and develops a rash and pruritus.
PRACTICE TEST 1
ANSWER KEYS AND RATIONALES
PRACTICE TEST 2
ANSWER KEYS AND RATIONALES
Sequence: Key
Sequence: Key 36 C
29 B Molluscum contagiosum is a viral infection of the
A patient with a loss of proprioception will also have skin characterized by the appearance of a few to
a loss of protective sensation, which is best detected numerous small, pearly, umbilicated papular
with a 10-gram monofilament. epithelial lesions that contain numerous inclusion
bodies known as molluscum bodies.
Sequence: Key
30 B Sequence: Key
In closed kinetic chain supination of the subtalar 37 C
joint, the talus and tibia externally rotate, the Practically all venous stasis ulcers exhibit a red,
calcaneus inverts, and the longitudinal arch of the granulating base.
foot is elevated, all of which result in a functionally
longer limb. Sequence: Key
38 D
Sequence: Key Lower extremity dependent edema is a sign of right-
31 C sided congestive heart failure.
The normal value for the talocalcaneal angle is
20 to 40 degrees. The talocalcaneal angle becomes Sequence: Key
smaller with supination, so a value of 10 degrees 39 C
would be indicative of supination, not excessive Surgically changing the insertion of the flexor
pronation. digitorum longus tendon from the base of the distal
phalanx to the dorsal aspect of the proximal phalanx
Sequence: Key will correct the proximal interphalangeal joint
32 C contracture of the hammer toe by pulling the
With the exception of halothane, all volatile proximal phalanx into a more congruous position
anesthetics contain an ether linkage. Volatile with the middle phalanx.
anesthetics with an ether linkage are less likely than
halothane to produce cardiac dysrhythmias in the Sequence: Key
presence of exogenous epinephrine injection. 40 C
The failure to report a suspicion of patient abuse may
Sequence: Key potentially result in harm or death. In such cases, the
33 B practitioner may be criminally liable.
The tibialis anterior tendon remains attached at its
insertion and is simply routed through a groove Sequence: Key
created in the navicular. Since its insertion has not 41 D
changed, it is a translocation. Rocker sole modification is used for any type of
pathologic or pathomechanical condition that limits
Sequence: Key normal movement of the ankle, metatarsal, or
34 A metatarsophalangeal joint. A rocker sole is a
People with osteoarthritis frequently have bony dynamic lever that assists with the normal movement
enlargement of the distal interphalangeal joints, of the lower extremity during gait and prevents
referred to as Heberden’s nodes. flexing of the sole of the shoe during all phases of
gait.
Sequence: Key
35 C Sequence: Key
Bupivacaine is not recommended for use in children 42 D
under 12 years of age. It is long acting, and long- Routine primary suturing is categorized as healing by
acting local anesthetics carry an increased risk of first intention.
cardiac and CNS toxicity.
-35- Practice Test 2
PRACTICE TEST 3
ANSWER KEYS AND RATIONALES
Diuretics [“Aces For Bilal’s Ethnic Spirit And Try Hard Insight”]
● Proximal Tubule:
○ Acetazolamide
● Loop
○ Furosemide
○ Bumetamide
○ Ethacrynic Acid
● K+ sparing (Collecting Duct)
○ Spironolactone
○ Amiloride
○ Triamterene
● Thiazides (Distal Convoluted Tubule)
○ Hydrochlorothiazide
○ Indapamide
Pes Cavus
- Anterior Cavus
Metatarsal (Lis francs)
Lesser Tarsal (middle of lesser tarsal bones)
Forefoot (Choparts)
Combined
- Rearfoot Cavus
- Pseudoequinus
In the rigid form of anterior pes cavus, compensatory dorsiflexion cannot be absorbed by the
forefoot. Therefore, the entire foot must dorsiflex at the ankle to allow the heel to contact the
ground
- Radiographic Angles
st
Meary’s – 1 MT and talar neck
st
Hibb’s – 1 MT and calcaneus
Calcaneal inclination angle
Talar declination angle
TC angle (Lateral and AP-Kite’s)
CYMA line
- Coleman Block Test
To determine if the deformity is flexible or rigid.
Lateral foot except heel and medial forefoot in on 2inch wooden block.
st
If heel moves from varus to neutral deformity is due to PF 1 ray
If heel stays in varus deformity is rigid
- If flexible, do ST correction
Steindler stripping (release PF, abd hallucis, FDB, abd digiti minimi, long plantar ligament)
STATT
st st
Jones tenosuspension (EHL through 1 MT head: removes windlass mech.. no PF of 1 MT)
- If rigid, do osseous correction
Cole
Japas
Dwyer (CBWO base lateral)
Reverse Koutsogiannis (lateral calcaneal slide)
Hallux Limitus
- Drago, Oloff, and Jacobs
o I – functional HL
o II – Joint adaptation
o III – Joint deterioration
o IV – Hallux Rigidus (ankylosis)
- Etiologies
o Trauma**
st
o Short 1 MT
st
o Long 1 MT
o MPE
o Arthritic (DJD)
st
o Hypermobile 1 ray
st
o Round or square 1 MT head
- Seiberg index (evaluation of MPE on lateral xray)
nd st
o The perpendicular distance from the dorsum of the 2 MT to the dorsum of the 1 MT shaft is
st st
measured at the 1 MT neck and 1.5 cm from the 1 MT base.
o The proximal measurement is subtracted from the distal measurement to give the Seiberg index.
o A positive number indicates an elevated first metatarsal.
o On average, the distal measurement is about 8mm in elevatas
- Treatment
o Joint preserving
Cheilectomy
Watermann-Green – PF and shortens… note: can also translate capitol frag laterally for IMA
1. Cheilectomy (dorsal and medial prominences)
rd
2. Plantar arm (plantar 2/3 of MT)
3. Distal dorsal arm parallel to articular surface (PASA)
st
4. Proximal dorsal arm (perpendicular to shaft of 1 MT)
Watermann
nd
Youngswick (Austin with 2 dorsal arm) – PF and shortens
Lambrinudi
Valenti
Hohmann
o Joint destructive
Keller
Mayo
Stone
Implants (total and hemi)
Mc Keever
Lapidus
DDX List:
Posterior heel pain
1. Achilles tendon rupture
2. Achilles tendonitis or –osis (insertional or non-insertional)
3. Fracture
a. Avulsion fracture of superior posterior calcaneus (Rowe 2)
b. Shepard’s fracture
c. Cedell’s fracture
d. Calcaneal fracture
4. Stress fracture of calcaneus (pathologic or insufficiency fx)
5. Bursitis (retrocalcaneal or subcutaneous calcaneal bursa)
6. Haglund’s deformity (pump bump)
7. Calcaneal apophysitis
8. Osteomyelitis
9. Bone tumor
a. ABC
b. UBC
c. Intraosseous lipoma
d. Enostosis
Dorsal foot pain (proximal)
1. Anterior process of calcaneus fracture (Rowe 1c)
2. Sinus tarsi syndrome (compensation from pes planus?)
3. Stress fracture (any proximal dorsal bones)
4. Fracture
5. Tendonitis or tendon rupture
6. Arthritis
7. Gout
8. Charcot
9. Osteomyelitis
10. AVN
11. Bone tumor
12. CRPS
13. Neuropraxia
14. Ganglion cyst
Dorsal foot pain (distal)
1. Predislocation syndrome
2. Stress fracture (any distal dorsal bones)
3. Fracture
4. AVN
5. Tendonitis or tendon rupture
6. Arthritis
7. Gout
8. Charcot
9. Neuroma
10. Neuropraxia
11. Ganglion cyst
12. Mucoid cyst (if in toes)
13. Osteomyelitis
14. Bone tumor
a. Enchondroma
b. Osteochondroma or chondrosarcoma
Plantar foot pain
1. Tarsal tunnel syndrome
2. Plantar fasciitis
3. Baxter’s neuritis
4. Stress fracture
5. Fracture
a. Calcaneal tuberosity fracture (Rowe 1a)
b. Sesamoid fracture
6. Tendonitis or tendon rupture
7. Neuropraxia
8. Plantar’s wart
9. Plantar fibroma
10. Neuroma
11. Bone tumor
a. UBC
b. ABC
c. Intraosseous lipoma
d. Enostosis
Medial foot pain
1. PTTD
2. Tendon rupture or tendonitis
a. TA
b. TP
3. Medial ligamentous sprain (deltoid)
4. Sustentaculum tali fx (Rowe 1b)
5. Avulsion of navicular tuberosity
6. Stress fracture
7. Tarsal tunnel syndrome
8. Neuropraxia
9. Bone tumor
Lateral foot pain
1. Tendon rupture or tendonitis
a. PB
b. PL
2. Lateral ligamentous sprain (CFL, ATFL, PTFL)
3. Neuropraxia (sural nerve lateral dorsal cutaneous nerve)
4. Stress fracture
5. Fracture
a. Nutcracker fracture
6. AVN
th
7. Avulsion fracture of tuberosity of 5 MT (Stewart)
8. Avulsion fracture of lateral malleolus
9. Peroneal tendon dislocation (Ekert and Davis)
a. SER rupture
th
10. Iselin’s disease (apophysitis of 5 MT base)
11. Tarsal Coalition
12. Bone tumor
Aside:
● 3 main principles of ORIF for ankle fractures
○ Restore length of fibula
○ Fix ankle mortise
○ Fix syndesmosis
● 4 main principles of ORIF for pilon fractures
○ Restore fibular length
○ Fix ankle mortise
○ Fill in cancellous defects
○ Support tibia with plate
● 4 main principles of ORIF for calcaneal fractures
○ Fix height of calcaneus
○ Fix width of calcaneus
○ Take heel out of varus
○ Articular reduction
Journal Articles
● Subtalar Fusion After Displaced Intra-Articular Calcaneal Fractures: Does Initial Operative Treatment
Matter?
○ JBJS 2009: Craig S. Radnay, Michael P. Clare and Roy W. Sanders
○ 2 patient groups: conservative non-ORIF vs. non-conservative ORIF after intraarticular calcaneal fracture.
○ Both groups got post traumatic arthritis and underwent STJ fusion
○ Better functional outcomes and fewer wound complications in patients who originally underwent ORIF
This is due to the fact that ORIF restored calcaneal shape, height, and alignment which facilitated
fusion.
● Screw Fixation Compared with Suture-Button Fixation of Isolated Lisfranc Ligament Injury
○ JBJS 2009. Panchbhavi
○ Suture-button fixation can provide stability similar to that provided by screw fixation in cadaver specimens
after isolated transection of the Lisfranc ligament.
○ Fixation with a suture button may be an acceptable alternative to screw fixation in the treatment of
isolated Lisfranc ligament injuries, avoiding subsequent surgery to remove the hardware prior to weight-
bearing.
● Cast-Saw Burns: Evaluation of Skin, Cast, and Blade Temperatures Generated During Cast Removal
○ JBJS 2008. Shuler
○ The highest skin temperatures were recorded for fiberglass casts with two layers of padding. The lowest
skin temperatures were recorded for plaster casts with four layers of padding. Four layers of cast padding
compared with two layers significantly reduced skin temperatures for both plaster and fiberglass casts.
● Fractures of the Lower end of the Tibia into the Ankle Joint
○ Ruedi and Allgower 1969
○ 4 main principles of ORIF in Pilon Fractures:
Restore length of fibula
● Incision: longitudinal parallel to posterior edge of fibula
Reconstruct articular surface of tibial plafond
● Incision: anterior tibia curving to medial malleolus
Fill in cancellous defects using bone graft
Support medial tibia with plate to prevent varus
● T- plate allows 2 cancellous screws to be inserted into lower articular fragments
○ Classification of Pilon Fractures (Ruedi and Allgower)
Type 1 – minimal displacement
Type 2 – significant displacement. Not comminuted
Type 3 – comminuted, displaced, and impacted
● Ankle Fractures
○ Clinics in Podiatric Medicine and Surgery 2006. Mandi et al
○ Always check NV status!! If not intact… maybe think compartment syndrome
○ If vascular compromise exists, it most commonly is caused by severe malalignment or dislocation of ankle
Emergent reduction should be performed.
○ 3 views always: AP, mortise (15deg internally rotated), lateral
○ On mortise view, assess:
If medial gutter space is >4mm think lateral displacement of the talus
● Accd to Ramsay and Hamilton… 1mm displacement = 42% loss of tib-talar contact area
The tibia-fibula overlap should be at least 10 mm.
● <10mm overlap would lead the observer to expect syndesmotic rupture.
○ If >25-30% of articular surface is involved in posterior malleolus fracture fixate
○ Protocol
Check NV status
Perform local block
Close reduce (increase deform6ity, distract, decrease deformity)
If need to go to OR:
● Debride devitalized tissue
● Aggressive irrigation
● Empiric antibiotics … cephs and aminoglycosides
○ If too swollen…
Jones compression with posterior splint
Elevation and ice
2-3 days is usually sufficient to decrease edema. Look for skin wrinkles to return!!!
○ Fibula usually shortens in ankle fractures causing lateral displacement of the talus 1mm lateral
displacement = 42% loss of tibiotalar contact ankle joint instability!!
○ Fibula Fixation
Bone reduction forceps to hold alignment
Interfrag screw (4.0 partially threaded)
rd
1/3 tubular plate bent to contour the fibula
● SER: Posterolateral surface of fibula to prevent proximal gliding (anti-glide)
● PAB: dynamic compression plate used as buttress
3.5 screws (6-8 cortices purchased proximal to the fracture line and 4-6 distal) into plate
● 3-4 screws proximal
● 2-3 screw distal (note this cannot always be done due to location of fracture so in this
case you insert what you can)
○ Syndesmosis Fixation
Cotton test (aka Hook test) can be used to evaluate syndesmosis after fibular fixation
Repair is recommended if talus shifts laterally 3-4mm
Approach laterally
1-2 screws 1.5 – 3.0cm proximal to tibial plafond
● AO recommends use of a fully threaded screw (3-4 cortices)
○ In this paper: 3.5 corticol screws with 4 cortices purchased
○ Some use 4.0 cancellous screws with 3 cortices purchased
Allows earlier weight bearing
● Tightrope, partially threaded screws, or bioabsorbable screws can also be used
○ Tightrope allows the earliest return to weight bearing and no need for removal
Angle screws posterolateral to anteromedial (15 degrees) to account for the fact fibula is a little
posterior to tibia
Make sure foot is in maximal dorsiflexion during repair!
● Fibula moves ~2mm laterally with ankle dorsiflexion
● You lose 0.1 degrees of DF for every degree of PF of the ankle at time of syndesmosis
repair
Remove syndesmotic screw after signs of radiographic healing
● Reports from 2-4 months before removal
● Beware of full weight bearing… may cause screw breakage
○ Medial malleolar fixation
Muller classification
● Type A – Avulsion fx distal to ankle mortise
● Type B – Avulsion fx at the level of the ankle mortise
● Type C – Oblique fx of the medial malleolus
● Type D – Vertical fx of medial malleolus (ie. SAD)
1 or 2 screws (lag fashion) for compression
○ Posterior malleolar fixation
Most often associated with SER and PER fractures
If >25-35% of joint surface is involved, posterior frag should be reduced and fixated
Usually anterior incision (through same incision used for medial malleolar reduction)
● Posteromedial and posterolateral approaches have also been used.
1 or 2 cannulated screws aided by fluoroscopy
○ Post-op
SLC with strict NWB 4-6 weeks
ROM exercises begin at 2 weeks (sagittal plane)
○ Complications
Post-traumatic osteoarthritis
Delayed union, malunion, non-union (rare)
Hardware irritation
● Management of the Diabetic Charcot Foot
○ Diabetes/Metabolism Research and Reviews, 2000. Robert Frykberg
○ Sanders and Frykberg anatomic classification of Charcot neuroarthropathy
■Pattern I - IPJs, phalanges, MTPJs, metatarsals
■Pattern II - Tarsometatarsal joints
■Pattern III - NC, TN and CC joints
■Pattern IV - Ankle joint
■Pattern V - Calcaneus
○ Effective conservative management of Charcot neuroarthropathy is dependent on its presentation pattern.
Once the patient exits the acute phase, management is directed at prolonged or permanent bracing for
ambulation.
■Pattern I-III - Custom full-length inserts + extra depth shoes; severe midfoot deformities: fabrication of
custom shoes to accommodate the misshapen foot
■Pattern IV – Mild: high-top custom-molded shoe with a full-length orthotic device; moderate: solid
AFO + therapeutic shoe; severe: patellar tendon bearing brace in custom shoe
■Pattern V – Immobilization via casting for minimally displaced fractures (NWB until radiographic
evidence of union, 8 weeks)
○ The goal of treatment: to achieve stable plantigrade foot with intact skin
JBJA Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery - these joints on the excursion of the posterior tibial
American 1996 - 1998 tendon in order to determine when it is
February 1997, Volume 79-A, Number 2 appropriate to reconstruct the tendon
241 Motion of the Hindfoot after Simulated concomitantly with these arthrodeses.
Arthrodesis*
Article Motion of the so-called triple joint complex (the
subtalar, talonavicular, and calcaneocuboid joints) is
AUTHOR(S): ASTION, DONNA J., M.D.†; necessary for the foot to accommodate variations in
DELAND, JONATHAN T., M.D.‡; ground surface and rotation from the lower extremity.
OTIS, JAMES C., PH.D.‡; Although gross differences in the amount of motion
KENNEALLY, SHARON, B.S.‡, NEW YORK, N.Y. of the triple joint complex remaining after different
arthrodeses has been recognized in vivo and in
Investigation performed at The Hospital for Special vitro (2-4,9), the amount of motion remaining has not
Surgery, New York City been measured accurately, to our knowledge.
While it is difficult to measure this motion
J Bone Joint Surg [Am] 1997; 79-A; 241-6 precisely in the clinical setting, Mann and
Baumgarten estimated clinically that about 50 per
ABSTRACT: Arthrodesis of the subtalar joint, cent of the motion of the transverse tarsal joint
triple arthrodesis (involving the subtalar, remained after arthrodesis of the subtalar joint. They
talonavicular, and calcaneocuboid joints), double therefore advocated the use of isolated arthrodesis of
arthrodesis (involving the talonavicular and the subtalar joint rather than triple arthrodesis, when
calcaneocuboid joints), arthrodesis of the possible, to leave the foot as flexible as possible.
talonavicular joint, and arthrodesis of the Fogel et al. found that isolated arthrodesis of the
calcaneocuboid joint were simulated in a cadaver talonavicular joint provided satisfactory results but
model, and the range of motion of each joint not clinically limited subtalar motion compared with that
involved in the simulated arthrodesis was of the contralateral foot. With use of a standard
measured with a three-dimensional magnetic space manual goniometer and reference pins in the tibia,
Redistribution of this article permitted only in accordance with the publisher’s copyright provisions.
tracking system. The excursion of the posterior calcaneus, and second metatarsal, Gellman et al.
tibial tendon was also measured under all of these measured the motion of the foot and the ankle in vitro
conditions. We found that any combination of after various combinations of simulated arthrodeses
simulated arthrodeses that included the of the ankle and tarsal joints. Those authors did not
talonavicular joint severely limited the motion of include arthrodesis of the talonavicular or
the remaining joints to about 2 degrees and limited calcaneocuboid joints, or both, or measure the motion
the excursion of the posterior tibial tendon to 25 of individual joints.
per cent of the preoperative value. Simulated Unlike motion of the major joints of the lower
arthrodesis of the calcaneocuboid joint had little extremity, motion of the joints of the foot cannot be
effect on the range of motion of the subtalar joint, measured accurately with an external goniometer. It
and it reduced the range of motion of the is possible, however, to measure the change in
talonavicular joint to a mean of 67 per cent of the position of individual bones of the foot in three-
preoperative value; a mean of 73 per cent of the dimensional space with a three-dimensional magnetic
excursion of the posterior tibial tendon was space tracking system; the range of motion of the
retained. After simulated arthrodesis of the joints can then be calculated. This system has been
subtalar joint, a mean of 26 per cent of the motion used in the past to study the mechanics of the wrist(7,
8)
of the talonavicular joint, 56 per cent of the motion .
of the calcaneocuboid joint, and 46 per cent of the Most pronation and supination of the foot occurs in
excursion of the posterior tibial tendon was the triple joint complex. The posterior tibial muscle
retained. and the peroneal muscles are the principal muscles
The talonavicular joint is the key joint of the acting on these joints. Arthrodesis of any one of the
triple joint complex. The talonavicular joint had joints of the triple joint complex affects the excursion
the greatest range of motion, and simulated of the posterior tibial tendon.
arthrodesis of this joint essentially eliminated The purpose of the present study was to quantify,
motion of the other joints of the complex. in vitro, the effect of simulated arthrodesis of selected
CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Arthrodesis of any of the joints of the triple joint complex on both the range of
joints of the so-called triple joint complex (the motion of the remaining, unfused joint or joints and
subtalar, talonavicular, and calcaneocuboid joints) the excursion of the posterior tibial tendon. We
limits the motion of the remaining, unfused joints. believe that these in vitro data will help a practitioner
However, clinical estimates of these limitations are to determine when to perform a transfer of the flexor
imprecise and motion of the individual joints digitorum longus tendon to replace the function of a
cannot be specifically measured clinically. It is ruptured or otherwise non-functional posterior tibial
important to be able to measure the limitation of tendon concomitantly with arthrodesis.
motion of each joint after arthrodesis of the other
joints in order to understand the clinical Materials and Methods
implication of the arthrodesis. Also, it is necessary Ten fresh-frozen cadaveric foot specimens,
to ascertain the effect of limiting the motion of amputated at the middle of the tibia, were used in this
Redistribution of this article permitted only in accordance with the publisher’s copyright provisions.
placed in various locations about the source to verify To achieve the pronated position of the foot, a thirty-
that they did not create any detectable distortion. The six-newton load was placed on the peroneus brevis
manufacturer determined the accuracy of the tracking tendon and an eleven-newton load was placed on the
system (0.8 millimeter along each of the three posterior tibial tendon (Fig. 1). The loads were
translational axes and 0.15 degree about each of the exchanged to achieve the supinated position of the
three rotational axes) with the sensor thirty inches foot. These loads were chosen because preliminary
(76.2 centimeters) from the source. The present study testing had demonstrated that greater loads did not
was conducted with the sensor no more than twelve produce noticeable additional motion of the joints
inches (30.5 centimeters) from the source. The under investigation.
accuracy with the shorter distance was determined, After each simulated arthrodesis, the linear
before the study was conducted, to be 0.1 millimeter displacement reading for the excursion of the
along each translational axis and 0.1 degree about posterior tibial tendon and the three-dimensional
each rotational axis. position of the bones were recorded for each of three
The magnetic source of the space tracking system supination trials and three pronation trials. The
was fixed to the test frame, and the sensors were simulated conditions included no arthrodesis,
attached to each of the four bones (Fig. 1). The arthrodesis of the subtalar joint, triple arthrodesis
position of the sensor in each bone was selected so (involving the subtalar, talonavicular, and
that the sensors did not come into contact with each calcaneocuboid joints), double arthrodesis (involving
other throughout the range of motion of the foot. To the talonavicular and calcaneocuboid joints),
attach the sensors rigidly to each bone, each sensor arthrodesis of the talonavicular joint, and arthrodesis
was mounted on a small Plexiglas plate that was of the calcaneocuboid joint. The order of the
connected to two 3.0-millimeter carbon vinyl ester simulated arthrodeses was maintained to minimize
pins. The pins were press-fit into two undersized the number of times that hardware was placed into the
holes in the bone six millimeters apart. Two pins bones to be fixed together, thereby allowing more
were used with each sensor to prevent rotation at the rigid stabilization of the bones. During the
pin-bone interface. experiment, the foot was held in a neutral plantigrade
The specimens were placed plantar side up in the position while each joint was fixed. The subtalar joint
testing apparatus, which stabilized the tibia and was fixed with the heel in the neutral position, as
allowed unrestricted motion of the foot (Fig. 1). fixing of this joint in varus results in more restricted
Placement of the foot plantar side up also simplified motion of the talonavicular and calcaneocuboid
the use of weights and wires for the application of joints(11). To simulate an arthrodesis, a combination
loads. of at least two screws or threaded pins, with a firm
Tendon pulls were used to move the foot through a hold in bone, were placed across the joint to be fixed.
reproducible range of motion without imposing an No cartilage was removed from the joints.
artificial axis of motion. The tendons of the posterior From the data collected, the range of motion of the
tibial and peroneus brevis muscles were selected subtalar, talonavicular, and calcaneocuboid joints and
because they are antagonists and the principal the excursion of the posterior tibial tendon were
Redistribution of this article permitted only in accordance with the publisher’s copyright provisions.
feet. With use of the contralateral side for comparison,
Simulated arthrodesis of the talonavicular joint and they estimated that about 50 per cent of the transverse
simulated double arthrodesis significantly limited the tarsal (talonavicular and calcaneocuboid) motion had
range of motion of the subtalar joint, in the nine feet been maintained. Hall and Pennal clinically estimated
for which it was recorded, to a mean of 8 and 9 per that 25 to 50 per cent of transverse tarsal motion
cent, respectively, of the subtalar motion before the remained after arthrodesis of the subtalar joint. In the
simulated arthrodeses (p < 0.0001 for both) (Fig. 2). present study, a mean of 26 per cent of the motion of
Simulated arthrodesis of the subtalar joint resulted in the talonavicular joint and 56 per cent of the motion
a significant decrease in the range of motion of the of the calcaneocuboid joint remained after simulated
talonavicular joint (p < 0.0001) and the arthrodesis of the subtalar joint. Fogel et al., in their
calcaneocuboid joint (p = 0.005), in the nine feet for follow-up study of patients who had had arthrodesis
which it was recorded, to a mean of 26 per cent of the talonavicular joint, noted that subtalar as well
(Fig. 3) and 56 per cent (Fig. 4), respectively, of the as transverse tarsal motion was severely limited. This
range of motion before the simulated arthrodeses. clinical result is in accordance with our in vitro
Simulated arthrodesis of the calcaneocuboid joint had finding that the subtalar and calcaneocuboid joints
little effect on the range of motion of either the retained 3 degrees of motion or less after simulated
talonavicular joint, which retained a mean of 67 per arthrodesis of the talonavicular joint. Our in vitro
cent of the motion that it had had before the measurements are consistent with the in vivo
simulated arthrodeses (Fig. 3), or the subtalar joint, estimates of motion retained by the transverse tarsal
which retained a mean of 92 per cent of its motion joint after arthrodesis of the subtalar joint and by the
(Fig. 2), in the five feet for which these data were subtalar joint after arthrodesis of the talonavicular
recorded. joint.
The mean excursion of the posterior tibial tendon The mean range of motion of the subtalar joint
in the ten feet was 17 ± 5 millimeters (range, ten to (20.4 degrees) before the simulated arthrodeses in the
twenty-seven millimeters) before the simulated present study was within the 18-to-24-degree range
arthrodeses. In the five feet for which it was recorded, determined by Inman in two cadaveric studies(11). The
a mean of 73 per cent of the excursion was results of the present study, however, cannot be
maintained after simulated arthrodesis of the compared with those reported by Gellman et al.
calcaneocuboid joint (Fig. 5). With the number of because those authors determined the motion
specimens in this study, we could not show a remaining in the foot as a whole after various
significant difference between the tendon excursion simulated arthrodeses. Also, Gellman et al. moved the
before the simulated arthrodesis of the foot manually in a predetermined direction, whereas
calcaneocuboid joint and that after it. However, the we used tendon pulls with constant loads to move the
excursion of the posterior tibial tendon was feet.
significantly decreased, compared with before the With our experimental model, we were able to
simulated arthrodeses, after all of the simulated quantify several important clinical observations. The
arthrodeses that involved the talonavicular joint degree to which simulated arthrodesis of a joint of the
Redistribution of this article permitted only in accordance with the publisher’s copyright provisions.
remaining joints the least. We previously and calcaneocuboid joints is retained, as is a mean of
demonstrated that most of the motion of the subtalar 46 per cent of the excursion of the posterior tibial
and talonavicular joints was retained after simulated tendon. Simulated arthrodesis of the calcaneocuboid
arthrodesis of the calcaneocuboid joint with a bone joint preserves a good deal of the motion of the
block (lengthening of the lateral column)(1). talonavicular joint, most of the motion of the subtalar
The mean excursion of the posterior tibial tendon joint, and most of the excursion of the posterior tibial
before the simulated arthrodeses in the present study tendon. These results are consistent with clinical
is consistent with that determined by Hintermann et observations that the amount of motion remaining in
al. In their study, the excursion of all of the extrinsic these joints influences the patient's postoperative
muscles of the plantigrade foot were determined in function.
various degrees of plantar flexion and dorsiflexion
with varying degrees of inversion and eversion. References: (1-11)
Those authors demonstrated that the excursion of the
posterior tibial tendon was less affected by flexion of
the ankle from -20 to 30 degrees (mean, 4.4
millimeters of excursion; range, 1.8 to 9.3 millimeters 1. Deland, J. T.; Otis, J. C.; Lee, K.-T.; and
of excursion) than by inversion and eversion of the Kenneally, S. M.: Lateral column lengthening
foot. With 0 degrees of plantar flexion, they found the with calcaneocuboid fusion: range of motion
mean excursion of the posterior tibial tendon to be in the triple joint complex. Foot and Ankle
16.3 millimeters (range, 6.8 to 22.3 millimeters) from 1995; 16:729-733.
inversion to eversion. In the present study, the mean 2. Fogel, G. R.; Katoh, Y.; Rand, J. A.; and
excursion of the posterior tibial tendon before the Chao, E. Y. S.: Talonavicular arthrodesis for
arthrodeses was 17 ± 5 millimeters (range, ten to isolated arthrosis. 9.5-year results and gait
twenty-seven millimeters) with the ankle fixed in analysis. Foot and Ankle 1982; 3:105-113.
neutral. 3. Gellman, H.; Lenihan, M.; Halikis, N.; Botte,
As far as we know, the effect of various arthrodeses M. J.; Giordani, M.; and Perry, J.: Selective
on excursion of the posterior tibial tendon has not tarsal arthrodesis: an in vitro analysis of the
been studied previously. In the present study, the effect on foot motion. Foot and Ankle 1987;
amount of excursion remaining after a particular 8:127-133.
simulated arthrodesis was associated with the amount 4. Hall, M. C.; and Pennal, G. F.: Primary
of motion remaining in the triple joint complex. A subtalar arthrodesis in the treatment of severe
mean of 73 per cent of the excursion of the posterior fractures of the calcaneum. J. Bone and Joint
tibial tendon was retained after simulated arthrodesis Surg. 1960; 42-B(2):336-343.
of the calcaneocuboid joint, whereas a mean of 46 per 5. Hintermann, B.; Nigg, B. M.; and Sommer, C.:
cent was retained after simulated arthrodesis of the Foot movement and tendon excursion: an in
subtalar joint. Excursion was most restricted by vitro study. Foot and Ankle 1994; 15:386-
simulated arthrodeses that included the talonavicular 395.
Redistribution of this article permitted only in accordance with the publisher’s copyright provisions.
Redistribution of this article permitted only in accordance with the publisher’s copyright provisions.
Fig. 2 Graph of the mean range of motion (ROM)
(and standard deviation) of the subtalar joint before
the simulated arthrodeses (black bars) and after
simulated arthrodeses (gray bars) of the talonavicular
(TN) joint, the calcaneocuboid (CC) joint, and both
joints (double arthrodesis). The numbers below the
bars are the number of feet included for each
simulated arthrodesis.
Redistribution of this article permitted only in accordance with the publisher’s copyright provisions.
Fig. 5 Graph of the mean excursion (and standard
deviation) of the posterior tibial tendon before the
simulated arthrodeses (black bars) and after simulated
arthrodesis (gray bars) of the subtalar (ST) joint,
triple arthrodesis, double arthrodesis, arthrodesis of
the talonavicular (TN) joint, and arthrodesis of the
calcaneocuboid (CC) joint. The numbers below the
bars are the number of feet included for each
simulated arthrodesis.
T his clinical practice guideline (CPG) is based upon Diagnosis and Treatment of First MTP Joint
Disorders (Pathway 1)
consensus of current clinical practice and review of the
clinical literature. The guideline was developed by the Clin-
ical Practice Guideline First Metatarsophalangeal (MTP) Pathology of the first MTP joint encompasses a variety
Joint Disorders Panel of the American College of Foot and of disorders from acquired orthopedic deformities and
Ankle Surgeons. The guideline and references annotate traumatic injuries to overuse problems and systemic dis-
each node of the corresponding pathways.
orders. These clinical problems typically involve the first
MTP joint and are encountered daily by the foot and
1
Chair, Gadsden, AL; 2 Everett, WA; 3 Richboro, PA; 4 San Francisco, ankle surgeon. This document will review current prac-
CA; 5 Board Liaison, Birmingham, AL; 6 Des Plaines, IL; 7 Camp Hill, tice guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of: hallux
PA; and 8 Park Ridge, IL. Address correspondence to: John V. Vanore,
DPM, Gadsden Foot Clinic, 306 South 4th St, Gadsden, AL 35901; e-mail: valgus (Pathway 2), hallux rigidus (Pathway 3), hallux
jvanore@prodigy.net varus (Pathway 4), sesamoid disorders (Pathway 5),
Copyright © 2003 by the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons
1067-2516/03/4203-0002$30.00/0
trauma (Pathway 6), and other disorders of the first MTP
doi:10.1053/jfas.2003.50036 joint (Pathway 7).
PATHWAY 1
NOTE. E, no corrective value/no effect; ⫹ to ⫹⫹⫹⫹, relative value scale indicative of potential to correct type of deformity.
Abbreviations: CAWO, closing abductory wedge osteotomy; NWB, nonweightbearing; PASA, proximal articular set angle; PWB, partial
weightbearing; WB, weightbearing.
a
Frontal plane correction at first MTP joint.
evidence to support the efficacy of orthotic devices in the Surgical Treatment: Stage 1 (Node 10)
treatment of hallux valgus, symptomatic relief may be re-
alized by some patients (36,37). Stage 1 hallux valgus deformity is defined as an IM angle
Surgical recommendations might be considered on the ⬍12° and an HA angle ⬍25°. Although the appearance of
initial evaluation of hallux valgus deformity. Because hal- the deformity may not be significant, there is often deviation
lux valgus is a progressive disorder and is often evaluated in of the joint and medial enlargement of the first metatarsal
the second or third stage, surgical consideration can be head. Typically, soft tissue tendon balance (38 – 45) and
undertaken early in the course of treatment. exostectomy with/without a distal osteotomy are performed
to correct the deformity (46 –77). If hallux abductus inter-
phalangeus is present, a phalangeal osteotomy may be in-
Clinical Response (Nodes 6, 7, and 8) dicated (28,78 –91) (Table 1; Figs. 3 and 4).
usually ⬎16° and an HA angle ⱖ35°. The MTP joint may References
be deviated or subluxed. Severe deformities often present
with associated findings (Node 3) in addition to hallux 1. Coughlin MJ, Roger A. Mann Award. Juvenile hallux valgus: etiol-
valgus. ogy and treatment. Foot Ankle Int 16:682– 697, 1995.
2. Hardy R, Clapham JCR. Observations on hallux valgus. J Bone Joint
Deformities in this stage may be corrected through cap-
Surg 33B:376 –391, 1951.
sule-tendon balancing with an osteotomy of the first meta- 3. Gould N, Schneider W, Ashikaga T. Epidemiological survey of foot
tarsal and/or proximal phalanx. Double osteotomy of the problems in the continental United States: 1978-1979. Foot Ankle
first metatarsal provides an additional option (56,107–113). 1:8 –10, 1980.
Determination of location of the osteotomy is influenced by 4. Kilmartin TE, Barrington RL, Wallace WA. Metatarsus primus varus.
A statistical study. J Bone Joint Surg 73B:937–940, 1991.
the degree of deformity and/or the presence of associated 5. Piggott H. The natural history of hallux valgus in adolescence and
degenerative arthritis. Metatarsal cuneiform arthrodesis early adult life. J Bone Joint Surg 42B:749 –760, 1960.
may also be considered. 6. Rosen JS, Grady JF. Neuritic bunion syndrome. J Am Podiatr Med
If hallux abductus interphalangeus is present, a phalan- Assoc 76:641– 644, 1986.
geal osteotomy may be indicated. In certain situations, first 7. Haines RW, McDougall A. The anatomy of hallux valgus. J Bone
Joint Surg 36B:272–293, 1954.
MTP joint resection arthroplasty (114 –120), with or with- 8. Kelikian H. Hallux Valgus, Allied Deformities of the Forefoot and
out a joint implant (121–132), or arthrodesis (133–139) may Metatarsalgia. WB Saunders, Philadelphia, 1965.
be performed, as in the case of patients with rheumatoid 9. Eustace S, Byrne JO, Beausang O, Codd M, Stack J, Stephens MM.
arthritis or degenerative joint disease or in patients requiring Hallux valgus, first metatarsal pronation and collapse of the medial
revision surgery (123–125,140 –157) (Table 1; Figs. 7–9). longitudinal arch—a radiological correlation. Skeletal Radiol 23:
191–194, 1994.
In summary, hallux valgus deformity is an inherited, 10. Shaw AH. The biomechanics of hallux valgus in pronated feet. J Am
progressive deformity often associated with certain foot Podiatry Assoc 64:193–201, 1974.
types, with symptoms aggravated by shoe wear. Although 11. Root ML, Orien WP, Weed H. Forefoot deformity caused by abnor-
conservative measures may be used initially to reduce the mal subtalar joint pronation. In Normal and Abnormal Function of
symptomatology associated with this deformity, surgical the Foot, pp 349 – 462, Clinical Biomechanics, Los Angeles, 1977.
12. Coughlin MJ. Hallux valgus in men: effect of the distal metatarsal
repair is often necessary to correct the hallux valgus and its articular angle on hallux valgus correction. Foot Ankle Int 18:463–
associated deformities. 470, 1997.
The PDF of the article you requested follows this cover page.
Hallux Rigidus
GRADING AND LONG-TERM RESULTS OF OPERATIVE TREATMENT
BY MICHAEL J. COUGHLIN, MD, AND PAUL S. SHURNAS, MD
Investigation performed at St. Alphonsus Regional Medical Center, Boise, Idaho
Background: There have been few long-term studies documenting the outcome of surgical treatment of hallux rigi-
dus. The purposes of this report were to evaluate the long-term results of the operative treatment of hallux rigidus
over a nineteen-year period in one surgeon’s practice and to assess a clinical grading system for use in the treatment
of hallux rigidus.
Methods: All patients in whom degenerative hallux rigidus had been treated with cheilectomy or metatarsophalan-
geal joint arthrodesis between 1981 and 1999 and who were alive at the time of this review were identified and
invited to return for a follow-up evaluation. At this follow-up evaluation, the hallux rigidus was graded with a new five-
grade clinical and radiographic system. Outcomes were assessed by comparison of preoperative and postoperative
pain and AOFAS (American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society) scores and ranges of motion. These outcomes were
then correlated with the preoperative grade and the radiographic appearance at the time of follow-up.
Results: One hundred and ten of 114 patients with a diagnosis of hallux rigidus returned for the final evaluation.
Eighty patients (ninety-three feet) had undergone a cheilectomy, and thirty patients (thirty-four feet) had had an arthro-
desis. The mean duration of follow-up was 9.6 years after the cheilectomies and 6.7 years after the arthrodeses.
There was significant improvement in dorsiflexion and total motion following the cheilectomies (p = 0.0001) and sig-
nificant improvement in postoperative pain and AOFAS scores in both treatment groups (p = 0.0001).
A good or excellent outcome based on patient self-assessment, the pain score, and the AOFAS score did not corre-
late with the radiographic appearance of the joint at the time of final follow-up. Dorsiflexion stress radiographs dem-
onstrated correction of the elevation of the first ray to nearly zero. There was no association between hallux rigidus
and hypermobility of the first ray, functional hallux limitus, or metatarsus primus elevatus.
Conclusions: Ninety-seven percent (107) of the 110 patients had a good or excellent subjective result, and 92%
(eighty-six) of the ninety-three cheilectomy procedures were successful in terms of pain relief and function. Cheilec-
tomy was used with predictable success to treat Grade-1 and 2 and selected Grade-3 cases. Patients with Grade-4
hallux rigidus or Grade-3 hallux rigidus with <50% of the metatarsal head cartilage remaining at the time of surgery
should be treated with arthrodesis.
Level of Evidence: Therapeutic study, Level IV (case series [no, or historical, control group]). See Instructions to Au-
thors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
H
allux rigidus is a term used to describe symptoms position arthroplasty23. Some authors reported a technique
commonly associated with degenerative arthritis of consisting solely of the removal of the osteophytes in line
the first metatarsophalangeal joint. Surgical treatment with the dorsal metatarsal cortex2,6,8-10,12,16,21,23,27,29,48, and several of
of protracted symptomatic hallux rigidus includes cheilec- them recommended cheilectomy as a treatment for early dis-
tomy1-13, excisional arthroplasty14-20, interposition arthroplasty13,21-25, ease only2,6,8,12. Although Nilsonne21 and Bonney and Macnab70
phalangeal osteotomy26-30, first metatarsal osteotomy16,31-40, im- found cheilectomy to be unsuccessful, others have reported
plant arthroplasty16,41-47, and arthrodesis14,48-68. successful results with cheilectomy for all levels of disease3,7,11
Cheilectomy has been recommended in a number of and have recommended a more aggressive resection of the
reports1-4,6-8,11-13,69; however, in many of the studies, the duration metatarsal head. Radiographic signs of deterioration of the
of follow-up was less than one year2,3,12,69 or some or all of the metatarsophalangeal joint over time have been reported after
patients were not examined at the time of final follow-up12,69. cheilectomy1,4,7,8, but continued good clinical function despite
In some studies, a substantial number of patients were lost to the worsening radiographic appearance has been noted in
final follow-up11,13; in others, cheilectomy was combined with these studies.
phalangeal osteotomy13,27,29, metatarsal osteotomy34 , or inter- Arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint has
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1 30° to 40° and/or 20% to Dorsal osteophyte is main finding, Mild or occasional pain and stiffness,
50% loss compared with minimal joint-space narrowing, minimal pain at extremes of dorsiflexion and/or
normal side periarticular sclerosis, minimal flattening plantar flexion on examination
of metatarsal head
2 10° to 30° and/or 50% to Dorsal, lateral, and possibly medial Moderate-to-severe pain and stiffness
75% loss compared with osteophytes giving flattened appearance that may be constant; pain occurs just
normal side to metatarsal head, no more than 1/4 of before maximum dorsiflexion and maxi-
dorsal joint space involved on lateral mum plantar flexion on examination
radiograph, mild-to-moderate joint-space
narrowing and sclerosis, sesamoids not
usually involved
3 ≤10° and/or 75% to 100% Same as in Grade 2 but with substantial Nearly constant pain and substantial
loss compared with normal narrowing, possibly periarticular cystic stiffness at extremes of range of motion
side. There is notable loss of changes, more than 1/4 of dorsal joint but not at mid-range
metatarsophalangeal plantar space involved on lateral radiograph,
flexion as well (often ≤10° sesamoids enlarged and/or cystic
of plantar flexion) and/or irregular
been evaluated as a treatment for hallux rigidus by several Materials and Methods
authors48-68. However, in many series, the duration of follow- ne hundred and forty consecutive patients were treated,
up was less than one year50,51,55-57, multiple surgeons were in-
volved52,56,61, or more than one technique was performed53,56.
O by the senior author (M.J.C.), with either a cheilectomy
or an arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint as sur-
Some studies included patients with other diagnoses such as gical treatment for a symptomatic hallux rigidus deformity
rheumatoid arthritis or hallux valgus49,52,55,57,58,67, and others between November 1981 and November 1999. Twenty-one
provided inadequate information on the patients or the patients were excluded from the present study because of a
method of evaluation48,51,53,56,58,59,65-67 or patients were not eval- diagnosis of gout, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythe-
uated at the time of final follow-up66. We found only two matosis, poliomyelitis, or previous pyarthrosis, and five other
reports50,68 that dealt exclusively with the treatment of hallux patients died during the study period. Of the 114 remaining
rigidus, and both included patients with less than one year of patients with a diagnosis of hallux rigidus, four were unavail-
follow-up. able or had moved away; 110 (96%) returned for a final follow-
On the basis of their individual beliefs about the etiol- up evaluation.
ogy of hallux rigidus, authors have proposed several grading Of these 110 patients (127 feet), eighty (ninety-three
systems with either three1,2,12,22,71-73 or four stages35,41,50,71,74 deter- feet) were treated with cheilectomy and thirty (thirty-four feet)
mined according to radiographic criteria only12,71 or a combi- were treated with arthrodesis. Thirteen patients had bilateral
nation of clinical and radiographic criteria1,2,17,22,41,50,72,73. Several cheilectomy, and four patients had bilateral arthrodesis. No pa-
of these grading systems add modifications to an existing tient underwent a cheilectomy on one side and an arthrodesis
scheme2,4,6,8,11,69, while in others the grades or treatment rec- on the contralateral side. Sixty-nine (63%) of the 110 patients
ommendations are based on poorly studied concepts such as were female. The average age at the onset of symptoms was
metatarsus primus elevatus41,50,71 or functional hallux limi- forty-three years (range, thirteen to seventy years), and the
tus17,41,50. All of these variations make comparisons between average age at surgery was fifty years (range, sixteen to seventy-
studies difficult. six years).
The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the
predictability of a clinical-radiographic grading scale for choos- Grading
ing a surgical procedure, and to examine the long-term results At the time of final follow-up, the patients were evaluated with
of cheilectomies and arthrodeses performed by one surgeon. a five-level clinical-radiographic grading system (Table I and
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Fig. 1-B
Figs. 1-A and 1-B Radiographs demonstrating Grade-1 hallux rigidus. Fig. 1-A The
anteroposterior radiograph demonstrates a small lateral marginal osteophyte
(arrow) but a well-preserved joint space. Fig. 1-B The lateral radiograph demon-
strates a small dorsal spur (arrow).
Fig. 1-A
Fig. 2-B
Figs. 2-A and 2-B Radiographs demonstrating Grade-2 hallux rigidus. Fig. 2-A
The anteroposterior radiograph demonstrates a substantial lateral marginal
osteophyte, mild flattening of the metatarsal head, mild joint-space narrowing,
and sclerosis. Fig. 2-B The lateral radiograph demonstrates narrowing of less
than one-fourth of the joint space (primarily dorsally) and a more prominent
dorsal spur.
Fig. 2-A
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Figs. 1-A through 4-B) that incorporates many features of all served and routinely recorded at the time of surgery. A cheil-
of the classification systems used by previous authors1,2,12,22,72,74 ectomy was always recommended for Grade-1 and Grade-2
but is not based on hypothetical concepts or notions17,41,50,71. All hallux rigidus, whereas a cheilectomy or an arthrodesis was
range-of-motion measurements used in the system refer to recommended for Grade-3 hallux rigidus. An arthrodesis was
passive motion. Pain at mid-range of passive motion refers to recommended when radiographs demonstrated end-stage ar-
pain that is elicited not only at the extremes of passive dorsi- throsis and the clinical examination demonstrated a painful
flexion and plantar flexion of the metatarsophalangeal joint range of motion. When an arthrodesis was performed, such
but also in between. Loose bodies or osteochondral defects patients were typically found to have <50% of the cartilage
can occur with any grade. Their presence does not affect the surface remaining on inspection at surgery. Determining the
assigned grade. There is intentional overlap of the ranges of best type of treatment was the most difficult for patients with
motion of the different grades as range of motion is only one similar radiographic findings who had minimal pain during
of the three general factors determining the eventually as- the range of motion except at maximum plantar flexion and
signed grade of hallux rigidus. Range-of-motion, clinical, and dorsiflexion. If it was acceptable to them, such patients gave
radiographic examinations are utilized to determine the indi- consent for both arthrodesis and cheilectomy, and the surgeon
vidual grade. chose the procedure at the time of the operation on the basis
of the amount of cartilage surface that remained. Although an
Preoperative Findings arthrodesis was always recommended to patients with end-
The indication for surgery was intractable pain isolated to the stage arthritis, which we later characterized as Grade-4 hallux
first metatarsophalangeal joint that was refractory to shoe rigidus, eight of these patients refused the arthrodesis and un-
modifications, use of rigid shoe inserts, nonsteroidal anti- derwent cheilectomy instead.
inflammatory medications, and modification of activities. Early in the study, the magnitude of preoperative pain
Symptoms referable to the great toe and foot were compiled was quantified as none, mild, moderate, severe, or quite se-
from a chart review. The operative reports were also evalu- vere; later, a visual analog scale was used by the patients to
ated to record the estimated percentage of the cartilage surface quantify the level of pain numerically. In order to compare the
of the metatarsal head that remained, which had been ob- preoperative and postoperative pain scores in the treatment
Fig. 3-B
Figs. 3-A and 3-B Radiographs demonstrating Grade-3 hallux rigidus. Fig. 3-A The
anteroposterior radiograph demonstrates substantial joint-space narrowing and
sesamoid irregularity. Fig. 3-B The lateral radiograph demonstrates narrowing of
more than one-fourth of the joint space and a prominent dorsal spur.
Fig. 3-A
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Fig. 4-B
Figs. 4-A and 4-B Radiographs demonstrating Grade-4 hallux rigidus. Both the an-
teroposterior (Fig. 4-A) and the lateral (Fig. 4-B) radiographs demonstrate more
advanced degenerative changes than the radiographs showing the Grade-3 dis-
ease. (Grades 3 and 4 may look identical radiographically and must be distin-
guished clinically.)
Fig. 4-A
groups (cheilectomy and arthrodesis) on the basis of the 10- the onset of the symptoms, and duration of pain or other
point visual analog score that was eventually used, a number symptoms.
was assigned retrospectively to the preoperative pain de- Patients were asked to rate their satisfaction with the re-
scribed by the patients seen early in the study. None was quan- sult of the surgery according to a previously published scale76.
tified as 0; mild, as 3; moderate, as 6; severe, as 9; and quite In that scale, a result is considered excellent if the patient has
severe, as 10. no problems related to the foot, is very satisfied, has mild or
Preoperatively, twenty-one patients had moderate pain no pain, walks with mild or no difficulty, and would have the
and the remainder had severe or quite severe pain. Although surgery again under similar circumstances. A result is consid-
the AOFAS (American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society) ered good if the patient has a few problems, is satisfied, has
hallux metatarsophalangeal scale75 was not available until mild pain, walks with no or mild difficulty, and would have
1994, the chart information and radiographs allowed us to the surgery again under similar circumstances. A fair result
also calculate a preoperative AOFAS score retrospectively for means that the patient has moderate pain, some difficulty
each patient. with walking, and reservations about the success of the sur-
gery. A poor result indicates that the patient has continued
Follow-up Evaluation pain, has little or no improvement in walking, and regrets hav-
The mean duration of follow-up was 9.6 years (range, 2.3 to ing had the surgery.
20.3 years) after the cheilectomies and 6.7 years (range, 2.1 More specific questions regarding shoe wear were asked
to 12.2 years) after the arthrodeses. At the time of follow-up, to determine whether the patient could wear fashionable shoes
patients were assessed with a standardized questionnaire and (a 2-in [5-cm] or higher heel) postoperatively, felt pressure
examination. from constricting shoes, or had any other difficulty with shoe
Patients were asked to characterize their postoperative wear. Patients were asked to characterize their shoe-wear re-
pain as none, mild, moderate, severe, or quite severe and also strictions (preoperatively and postoperatively) as none (could
to rate it on a 10-point visual analog scale in which 0 indicated wear fashionable shoes), could wear comfortable shoes only,
no pain and 10 indicated the most severe pain. Patients were or required modified custom shoes or orthotic devices.
also asked to localize the pain, if they had any, and to specify Patients were asked if they could walk on tiptoe and the
their main symptom (pain, stiffness, cosmetic appearance, lock- time to maximal comfort and recovery from the surgery. They
ing, or a gait problem). In addition, patients were questioned were asked to characterize any activity restrictions (preop-
about their clinical history, including use of orthotics, age at eratively and postoperatively) as none (no restriction of sports
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or recreational activity), mild (not enough to interfere with termined for all patients at the time of final follow-up. This is
everyday activity but some limitation of sports or recreational a 100-point scale composed of separate sections for pain (40
activity), moderate (limitation of daily and recreational or points), function (45 points), and alignment (15 points). In
sports activity), or severe (major limitation of any activity). the scale for pain, 40 points is given for no pain; 30 points, for
The physical examination included inspection and pal- mild, occasional pain; 20 points, for moderate, daily pain; and
pation of the foot with attention to posture, sensation, mo- 0 points, for severe, constant pain. Function is graded on the
tion, motor function, strength, and appearance. Both feet of basis of activity (10 points for no limitation, 7 points for limi-
all patients were examined. Stance and gait were assessed with tation of recreational activity but not daily or job-related
attention to the position of the foot when the patient walked. activities, 4 points for limitation of daily and recreational ac-
Passive motion of the metatarsophalangeal and interpha- tivities, and 0 points for severe limitation of daily and rec-
langeal joints of the great toe was measured with a goniometer, reational activities), shoe wear (10 points for the ability to
with the plantar aspect of the foot considered to be neutral. wear fashionable and regular shoes with no insert, 5 points
These joints were then assessed for stability in the sagittal for the ability to wear only comfortable shoes or the need for
plane. Pain that occurred in the mid-range, between maxi- an insert, and 0 points for the need to wear modified shoes or
mum plantar and dorsiflexion, of a passive range of motion of a brace), motion (dorsiflexion plus plantar flexion) of the
the hallux metatarsophalangeal joint was noted. The plantar metatarsophalangeal joint (10 points for ≥75°, 5 points for
aspect of the foot was assessed for callosities or areas of ten- 30° to 74°, and 0 points for <30°), motion (plantar flexion) of
derness. Motor strength of the hallux was quantitated on a the interphalangeal joint (5 points for no restriction and 0
5-point scale in which 1 indicated no strength; 2, active move- points for <10°), stability (in all directions) of the metatarso-
ment with gravity eliminated; 3, active movement against grav- phalangeal joint (5 points for stable and 0 points for un-
ity only, without resistance; 4, active movement against gravity stable), and callus related to the metatarsophalangeal and
with some resistance; and 5, active movement against gravity interphalangeal joints (5 points for no or an asymptomatic
with full resistance. callus and 0 points for a symptomatic callus). In the align-
An AOFAS hallux metatarsophalangeal score75 was de- ment section of the scale, 15 points is given for a well-aligned
Fig. 5-B
Radiographs demonstrating the technique for measuring the joint width. On the
preoperative and postoperative radiographs, three points were placed along the
corresponding articular surfaces of the base of the proximal phalanx and the
distal part of the metatarsal. On the anteroposterior radiograph (Fig. 5-A), these
points were placed at the medial, central, and lateral aspects of the joint sur-
Fig. 5-A
faces. On the lateral radiograph (Fig. 5-B), these points were placed at the dor-
sal, middle, and plantar aspects of the joint surface. On a line connecting each
pair of corresponding points, the joint width was measured in millimeters. The
six scores were added and then divided by six, to provide an average width for
each joint.
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Radiographic Evaluation
Standardized preoperative weight-bearing radiographs77 were
reviewed and compared with standardized postoperative weight-
bearing radiographs made at the time of the final follow-up.
The width of the metatarsophalangeal joint was determined Fig. 7-A
by a summation method based on six separate measurements Figs. 7-A and 7-B Metatarsus primus elevatus and dorsiflexion stress
(Figs. 5-A and 5-B). Recurrence of the dorsal osteophyte was test. Fig. 7-A A postoperative standing lateral radiograph demonstrat-
assessed on the lateral radiograph by drawing a line along the ing 9 mm of metatarsus primus elevatus.
dorsal cortex of the metatarsal and measuring any osteophyte
above that line in millimeters.
Interphalangeal joint arthritis was graded on the antero-
posterior radiograph with use of a previously described meth-
od78. With this method, Grade 1 indicates no degenerative
changes; Grade 2, mild changes with <1 mm of chondrolysis;
Grade 3, moderate changes with 1 to 2 mm of chondrolysis;
and Grade 4, severe changes with malalignment, cysts, and/or
joint destruction. Periarticular sclerosis at the metatarsopha-
langeal joint was recorded as 0 (no sclerosis), +1 (mild), +2
(moderate), or +3 (severe), as seen on the preoperative and
postoperative anteroposterior radiographs of the patients
treated with cheilectomy.
Elevation of the first ray (metatarsus primus elevatus)
was measured on the weight-bearing lateral radiograph79. The
difference between the dorsal cortices of the first and second
metatarsals measured at the head-neck junction was recorded Fig. 7-B
in millimeters. A normal value is ≤8 mm79. The first metatarsal A standing lateral radiograph of the same foot with application of
declination angle was measured as well79. Normal values are dorsiflexion stress, demonstrating an absence of metatarsus primus
reported to range from 19° to 25°80 (Fig. 6). A dorsiflexion stress elevatus.
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TABLE II Preoperative and Postoperative Symptoms and Functional Factors in Patients Treated with Cheilectomy or Arthrodesis*
Postop.
Symptom or Preop. Cheilectomy Arthrodesis Total
Functional Factor (N = 110) (N = 80) (N = 30) (N = 110)
Stiffness 109 10 (13%) 14 (47%) 24
Locking 20 0 0 0
Dissatisfaction with cosmetic appearance 60 0 0 0
Insert or orthotic 20 9 9 18
Able to wear fashionable shoes 50 56 21 77
TABLE III Preoperative and Postoperative Clinical Scores and Findings on Examination for Patients Treated with Cheilectomy
or Arthrodesis
Cheilectomy Arthrodesis
Score or Finding Total Series
on Examination Preop. Postop. Preop. Postop. (Postop.)
Pain score on visual analog 8 (6-10) 1.5 (0-8) 8.7 (6-10) 0.4 (0-5)
scale* (points)
AOFAS score* (points) 45 (24-70) 90 (67-100) 38 (24-60) 89 (72-90)
Subjective patient self- All fair or poor 58 excellent, All fair or poor 26 excellent,
assessment score (no.) 19 good, 3 fair, 4 good, 0 fair
0 poor or poor
MTP dorsiflexion*† (deg) 14.5 (0-45) 39 (10-65) 7 (−15-10) 0 Dorsiflexion
improved 24.5°
MTP total motion*† (deg) 39.2 (5-80) 63.7 (15-110) 22.1 (5-30) 0 Total motion
improved 24.5°
Callus† (no. of patients/ 5/2nd MTP, 5/IP joint, plantar 4/2nd MTP, 4/IP joint, plantar 9/IP joint, plantar
location) plantar plantar and medial
*The values are given as the mean with the range in parentheses. †MTP = metatarsophalangeal joint and IP = interphalangeal joint.
unweighted in this fashion until there is radiographic evidence operatively. However, there was a significant reduction (p =
of a fusion. 0.0001) in the postoperative pain score indicated on the visual
analog scale. Postoperatively, patients no longer complained
Statistical Analysis of a dorsal bump or pressure from the shoe, but they con-
Descriptive and comparative statistical analysis was performed tinued to have metatarsophalangeal joint pain. The time to
with use of InStat software (GraphPad Software, San Diego, maximum postoperative improvement averaged 2.4 months
California). Standard chi-square analysis was performed on (range, one to 4.5 months) after the cheilectomies and 2.8
continuous variables. Pearson and binary correlation coef- months (range, 1.5 to four months) after the arthrodeses.
ficients were used to evaluate the noncontinuous data, and
positive coefficients (r values) closer to one indicate strong Clinical Scores (Table III)
correlation while values closer to zero indicate weak or no cor- One hundred and seven (97%) of the 110 patients had an ex-
relation. Differences were considered to be significant when cellent or good self-assessment (subjective) score at the time
the p value was ≤0.05. of follow-up, whereas all patients had a fair or poor score pre-
operatively (as estimated retrospectively). A good or excellent
Results outcome based on the patient self-assessment score, visual an-
ighty patients (ninety-three feet) treated with a cheilec- alog score for pain, and AOFAS score did not correlate with
E tomy and thirty patients (thirty-four feet) treated with an
arthrodesis were evaluated at the final examination. At the
the radiographic appearance of the joint (loss of joint space)
at the time of final follow-up (r = 0.08, p = 0.34).
time of follow-up, at a mean of 9.6 years postoperatively, seven At the time of final follow-up, the mean AOFAS score
(8%) of the ninety-three cheilectomies had failed. At the time was significantly improved in both the group treated with
of follow-up, at a mean of 6.7 years postoperatively, thirty-two cheilectomy (p = 0.0001, difference in the means = 45.7, 95%
(94%) of the thirty-four arthrodeses had successfully fused. confidence interval = 43.3 to 48.1) and the group treated with
There were sixteen associated surgical procedures, in- arthrodesis (p = 0.045, difference in the means = 50.4, 95%
cluding four repairs to treat a hammertoe deformity of the confidence interval = 46.5 and 54.4). The cheilectomy group
second toe, nine repairs to treat capsular instability of the sec- had a significantly higher preoperative mean AOFAS score
ond metatarsophalangeal joint, and three Akin phalangeal os- than did the arthrodesis group (45 compared with 38 points,
teotomies performed for severe hallux valgus interphalangeus p = 0.025, difference in the means = 6.6, 95% confidence in-
at the time of metatarsophalangeal joint arthrodesis. terval = 1.8 and 9.1), but there was no difference in the mean
postoperative AOFAS scores (89 compared with 90 points, p =
Historical Data (Table II) 0.3). However, the maximum possible AOFAS score in the ar-
The most common primary preoperative symptoms were throdesis group was 90 points, as 10 points are unavailable be-
metatarsophalangeal joint pain (fifty-five patients) and a pain- cause of loss of motion.
ful dorsal bump (fifty-five patients). These symptoms decreased When the patients treated with cheilectomy were grouped
postoperatively in both treatment groups. Interestingly, the according to the grade of the hallux rigidus, a significant dif-
same number of patients listed their primary symptom as ference in both preoperative and postoperative AOFAS score
metatarsophalangeal joint pain both preoperatively and post- was found among the subgroups (r = 0.3, p = 0.02). Also, a
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TABLE IV Mean Range of Motion and Follow-up Scores for Patients Treated with Cheilectomy
Postop.
Dorsiflexion (deg) Total Motion (deg) Postop. Pain Score on
AOFAS score Visual Analog
Grade Preop. Postop. Change Preop. Postop. Change (points) Scale (points)
1 33.3 56.7 23.4 53.3 76.7 23.4 95.7 1.1
*Five of nine Grade-4 feet underwent arthrodesis and had a mean loss of motion.
TABLE V Mean Radiographic Values for Patients Treated with Cheilectomy or Arthrodesis
Cheilectomy* Arthrodesis*
Radiographic Parameter Preop. Postop. Preop. Postop.
Metatarsus primus elevatus (mm) 5.3 (0-10) 6.1 (0-15) 5.6 (0-12) 1.8 (0-10)
First metatarsal declination angle (deg) 20.4 (15-27) 21.1 (12-30) 23.4 (19-30) 20 (15-26)
Hallux valgus angle (deg) 12.2 (0-20) 12.6 (0-24) 12.2 (0-20) 11.7 (5-19)
1st-2nd intermetatarsal angle (deg) 7.3 (2-24) 7.7 (2-15) 8.1 (4-14) 8.1 (4-13)
Joint width (mm) 1.6 (0.3-2.7) 1.2 (0-3) 0.9 (0.5-1.6) 0.01 (0-0.5)
Interphalangeal joint width (mm) 1.1 (1-2) 1.1 (1-2) 1.1 (1-2) 1.2 (1-2)
*The values are given as the mean with the range in parentheses for the feet.
correlation was found between increasing grade and lower diographs demonstrated no progression of arthritis in either
preoperative AOFAS scores (r = 0.4, p = 0.01). treatment group.
There was significant progression of periarticular scle-
Results of Clinical Examination (Table IV) rosis of the metatarsophalangeal joint (p = 0.0001, difference
The total range of motion of the metatarsophalangeal joint at in the means = 0.5, r = 0.84, 95% confidence interval = 0.3 to
the time of final follow-up after the cheilectomies averaged 0.6) and of loss of the metatarsophalangeal joint width (p =
64°: the average dorsiflexion of the metatarsophalangeal joint 0.0001, difference in the means = 0.4 mm, r = 0.8, 95% con-
improved from 14.5° preoperatively to 38.4° postoperatively fidence interval = 0.25 and 0.46) in the cheilectomy group.
(p = 0.0001, difference in the means = 23.8°, 95% confidence Twenty-one metatarsophalangeal joints were noted to have a
interval = 20.9° to 26.6°). Postoperatively, no significant dif- loose body on preoperative radiographs and confirmatory
ference was noted between passive dorsiflexion and dorsi- findings at the time of surgery, but no loose bodies were noted
flexion with stress at either the metatarsophalangeal or the on final follow-up radiographs. The average size of the recur-
interphalangeal joint of the hallux (p = 0.4, difference in the rent dorsal osteophytes was 0.72 mm (range, 0 to 3 mm) after
means = 1.2°). Dorsiflexion of the interphalangeal joint aver- the cheilectomies and 0 mm after the arthrodeses.
aged 8° in both treatment groups at the time of final follow-
up. Motor strength was graded as 5/5 (normal) in all subjects. Grading of the Hallux Rigidus (Table VI)
All first metatarsophalangeal joints were stable on manual ex- In the cheilectomy group, the mean clinical-radiographic
amination following cheilectomy. Three patients had a Tinel grade of the hallux rigidus was 2.50 (range, 1 to 4) preopera-
sign over the dorsal-medial aspect of the metatarsophalangeal tively compared with 2.59 (range, 1 to 4) postoperatively
joint preoperatively, but no patient had a sensory disturbance (p = 0.1). Nine patients had an increase of one grade at the
postoperatively. time of final follow-up. In the cheilectomy group, patients
with a lower grade preoperatively had a better AOFAS score
Radiographic Data (Table V) both preoperatively and postoperatively. No patient had an
Comparison of the extent of arthritic changes in the interpha- increase in the grade after an arthrodesis, and no patient in
langeal joint between the preoperative and postoperative ra- the series had an increase of more than one grade. Following
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TABLE VI Preoperative and Postoperative Clinical-Radiographic Grades for Patients Treated with Cheilectomy or Arthrodesis*
*The values are given as the number of patients with the percentage in parentheses.
the cheilectomies, the patients with Grade-1 hallux rigidus ment groups (r = 0.6, p = 0.01). Preoperatively, 120 (94%) of
had a mean AOFAS score of 95.7 points and a mean pain the 127 feet had <8 mm of elevation, which was within the
score on the visual analog scale of 1.1 points, and all four feet range of normal.
were subjectively rated as excellent. Patients with Grade 2 had The mean preoperative and postoperative measurements
a mean AOFAS score of 92.9 points and a mean pain score of elevatus were 5.3 mm and 6.1 mm in the cheilectomy group.
on the visual analog scale of 1.5 points; of the thirty-eight There was a correlation between the postoperative grade and
feet, thirty-five were rated as excellent and three were rated the amount of elevatus (r = 0.44, p = 0.02). Moreover, the
as good. Patients with a Grade-3 rating had a mean postop- elevatus reduced to a mean of 1.2 mm on dorsiflexion stress
erative AOFAS score of 89.8 points and a mean pain score on examination in the cheilectomy group at the time of final
the visual analog scale of 1.7 points; of the thirty-four feet, follow-up. This value was significantly different from the mea-
twenty-nine were rated as excellent and five were rated as surements of elevatus on weight-bearing lateral radiographs
good. both preoperatively (p = 0.001, difference in the means = 3.9
mm, 95% confidence interval = 1.6 to 5.2 mm) and postop-
Integrity of the Articular eratively (p = 0.001, difference in the means = 4.5 mm, 95%
Surface at the Time of Surgery confidence interval = 1.3 to 5.1 mm).
As estimated by inspection of the metatarsophalangeal joint at Both before and following cheilectomy, an increased
the time of surgery, an average of 17% (range, 0% to 40%) of value for elevatus was associated with a higher grade of hallux
the articular surface of the metatarsal head remained in the ar- rigidus (p = 0.04, r = 0.44). In addition, elevatus decreased
throdesis group and an average of 60% (range, 55% to 90%) postoperatively in patients with Grade-1 or 2 hallux rigidus
remained in the cheilectomy group. There was a correlation but it increased in those with Grade-3 or 4. The mean pre-
between an estimation of <50% of the metatarsal head carti- operative elevatus in the arthrodesis group was 5.6 mm, and
lage remaining and failure of cheilectomy (p = 0.002, r = 0.4). this was significantly reduced postoperatively to 1.7 mm (p =
Also, an estimation of >50% of the metatarsal head cartilage 0.009, difference in the means = 3.9 mm, 95% confidence in-
remaining in a patient undergoing a cheilectomy correlated terval = 2.7 to 4.9 mm).
with a long-term AOFAS score of >80 points and a good or ex-
cellent subjective score (p = 0.01, r = 0.4) at the time of final Complications
follow-up. Five of the eighty patients in the cheilectomy group and two
of the thirty in the arthrodesis group required oral antibiotics
Metatarsus Primus Elevatus (Table VII) for the treatment of mild postoperative cellulitis. There were
There was good correlation between the first metatarsal de- no deep wound infections. No patient in either group had
clination angle and metatarsus primus elevatus in both treat- tenodesis or scarring of the extensor hallucis longus, concerns
TABLE VII Metatarsus Primus Elevatus, According to Grade of Hallux Rigidus, in the Patients Treated with Cheilectomy or
Arthrodesis
*The values are given as the mean with the range in parentheses.
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about the cosmetic appearance of the foot, neuritis, or a hy- metatarsophalangeal joint pain (mean pain score, 4.4 points).
pertrophic dorsal scar. However, the cheilectomy unexpectedly failed in two of thirty-
Seven failed cheilectomies in six patients resulted in four patients with Grade-3 hallux rigidus. Both had radio-
seven additional surgical procedures. There were two outcomes graphic evidence of chondrolysis within one year after the
that were unexpected on the basis of the grades assigned with surgery, with progressive pain, and subsequently underwent
our rating system during the study period. These two outcomes arthrodesis of the metatarsophalangeal joint at seven and
consisted of rapid chondrolysis (within one year after the sur- eight years following the cheilectomy.
gery), and both patients had a metatarsophalangeal joint ar- To improve the accuracy and predictability for Grade-3
throdesis (at seven and eight years following the cheilectomy). hallux rigidus, the percentage of metatarsal head cartilage re-
The other four patients (five feet) in which the cheilectomy maining, as estimated with direct surgical inspection, should
failed had originally been advised to have an arthrodesis for be considered, as <50% of the cartilage remaining correlated
the treatment of Grade-4 disease; a metatarsophalangeal joint with failure.
arthrodesis was eventually performed in these four patients. The indications for cheilectomy described in the litera-
The other four patients with Grade-4 changes (who did not ture have varied greatly. While some authors have recom-
have additional surgery after the initial cheilectomy) had a mended cheilectomy for early disease only2,12, others have used
mean long-term AOFAS score of 74 points (range, 67 to 80 the procedure to treat both early and moderate disease4,5; still
points); three rated the result as fair and one rated it as good others have used it for all levels of disease3,7,11,69. The results of
after a mean duration of follow-up of 7.4 years (range, 2.5 to this study support the use of cheilectomy for all levels of dis-
8.4 years). Thus, of the nine feet with Grade-4 changes for ease except Grade 4.
which arthrodesis was recommended but cheilectomy was per- As a result of all of the different grading systems (or a
formed at the patient’s request, five had failure of the proce- lack of grading) and differences in the technique of cheilec-
dure and later underwent arthrodesis (at a mean 6.9 years tomy, it is difficult to compare the results of different studies.
after the cheilectomy) as initially recommended. The other However, rates of satisfaction after cheilectomy have been fa-
four had inferior subjective results (three fair and one good) at vorable, ranging from 72% to 90%2-4,11-13,69. We favor a uniform
the time of follow-up but had radiographic signs of deteriora- grading system to allow comparisons between studies and to
tion of the joint space and a mean pain score of 4.7 points on distinguish between a Grade-3 and a Grade-4 metatarsopha-
the visual analog scale. langeal joint.
Two plates were removed because of pain following a Of interest was a significant progression in objective evi-
successful fusion. Two of the thirty-four feet that had under- dence of periarticular sclerosis as well as loss of joint space
gone arthrodesis had a painless fibrous union, and the AO- width in our patients who had undergone cheilectomy; how-
FAS score was 90 points for both of these feet at the time of ever, there was no correlation between loss of joint width and
follow-up. the AOFAS score, pain score, or patient self-assessment.
the individual study and the specific surgical technique used higher grades of disease2,12,13. A cheilectomy alters the joint in
for the cheilectomy1,3,7,13. Authors using the technique de- some fashion, providing pain relief even in the presence of
scribed by Mann et al.3 have reported 20° to 30° improvements more advanced disease. However, there is a point (Grade-4
in dorsiflexion and total range of motion1,3,4,7,11,13, whereas those disease) at which reliable results are more difficult to obtain.
using a minimal resection technique have reported about 50% We support the notion of Easley et al.1 that a clinical finding
less improvement in dorsiflexion2,6,12. Several authors have re- of pain at the mid-range of motion (Grade 4) is a harbinger of
ported diminishing improvements in motion with increases in a poor result following cheilectomy and that it is critical to
the grade of the disease2,6,12, whereas others1, including us, have recognize this finding especially in the presence of advanced
found fairly uniform improvement in motion even in patients radiographic changes. However, as noted by others7,69, radio-
with more advanced disease. We reported an increase in mean graphic findings alone do not correlate with the final clinical
dorsiflexion from 14.5° preoperatively to 38.4° postoperatively result, and we believe that purely radiographic grading sys-
and an increase in mean total motion from 39.2° to 64°. This tems should be discarded.
improvement occurred consistently across all grades, and it
corresponds very closely with the findings reported by several Arthrodesis
authors1,3,7,11,13, confirming the reliability of our cheilectomy There is little information on the performance of arthrodesis
technique. solely for the treatment of hallux rigidus52,53,57,58. Fitzgerald53 re-
Thus, it appears that minimal resection techniques ported that arthritis developed in the interphalangeal joint
are not as versatile, especially for more advanced grades of when the metatarsophalangeal joint had been fused in <15°
disease2,6,8,12. With our more aggressive resection technique, the of valgus. One of us (M.J.C.)78 previously reported that arthri-
indications can be extended to include more advanced disease tis was more common in interphalangeal joints when the
without compromising the result or creating an unstable metatarsophalangeal joint had been fused in <22° of dorsiflex-
joint3,7,13,69. ion. Other studies have shown progression of interphalangeal
joint arthritis after metatarsophalangeal joint arthrodesis78,86,87.
Pain Relief However, these studies included a large number of patients
Pain relief has been reported consistently following cheilec- with rheumatoid arthritis. In the current study, which dealt
tomy1,3,7,69, but some authors have noted less pain relief with only with hallux rigidus, we noted no progression of degener-
Fig. 8-A
Figs. 8-A and 8-B Radiographs of a foot with a long-term good result
of cheilectomy. Fig. 8-A Preoperative anteroposterior radiograph
showing a foot with Grade-3 hallux rigidus. Fig. 8-B Anteroposterior
radiograph made eighteen years following cheilectomy; the foot still Fig. 8-B
Complications
Arthrodesis resulted in a 94% fusion rate, and neither of the
fibrous unions was painful. Two patients underwent hard-
ware removal because of pain. There were no failures of hard-
ware or other complications.
Although Easley et al.1 suggested that a medial approach
is preferable for cheilectomy because of the risk of tenodesis or
scarring of the extensor hallucis longus tendon, because of
cosmetic concerns, and to avoid creating a hypertrophic dor-
sal scar, we found no evidence of these complications in any
patient.
made with use of two different measurements, the first meta- an average of 9.6 years after cheilectomy and 100% of those
tarsal declination angle80 and the difference in elevation between followed for an average 6.7 years after arthrodesis had a good
the dorsal cortices of the first and second metatarsals as seen on or excellent subjective result. Pain scores in both groups were
a weight-bearing lateral radiograph79,90. significantly reduced compared with the preoperative scores,
Normal elevatus is considered to be ≤8 mm, and the and AOFAS scores were significantly improved.
normal first metatarsal declination angle has been reported to The clinical-radiographic grading system used in this
be between 19° and 25°79,90. The mean preoperative elevatus study appears to be reliable. We believe that cheilectomy can
was 5.5 mm in our patients, well within the limits of normal. be used with success for Grades 1, 2, and 3 hallux rigidus
Moreover, the mean first metatarsal declination angle was (Figs. 8-A and 8-B), but patients with Grade 4 or with <50%
within normal limits both preoperatively and postoperatively of the cartilage surface of the metatarsal head remaining at
in our patients. the time of surgery should be treated with arthrodesis (Figs.
Metatarsus primus elevatus is rarely a structural prob- 9-A, 9-B, and 9-C). For patients who desire preservation of
lem that needs to be corrected by an osteotomy, as has been motion and are willing to accept less than total pain relief,
recommended by others32,34,36-39,74. In our series, it consistently cheilectomy provides a high proportion of good and excel-
decreased after cheilectomy in patients with lower grades of lent long-term results. However, arthrodesis should be con-
disease. We noted that these patients had the least amount of sidered for patients who clearly have pain in the mid-range
elevatus. Elevatus corrected to nearly zero with the dorsiflex- of motion on examination. A high proportion of these pa-
ion stress test (with any grade of hallux rigidus). While the ele- tients can be expected to have a good or excellent long-term
vatus decreased with passive dorsiflexion stress, we found no result after arthrodesis performed with the technique de-
difference between first metatarsophalangeal joint motion scribed in this study.
with the dorsiflexion stress test and passive metatarsopha- NOTE: The authors thank Mary Sampson, MS, for assistance with the statistical analysis.
langeal joint motion. These findings call into question the
concept of functional hallux limitus that has been reported in
the literature81-83. However, we hypothesized that functional
hallux limitus may represent the residual elevatus that we oc- Michael J. Coughlin, MD
casionally noted on the dorsiflexion stress radiographs of pa- 901 North Curtis Road, Suite 503, Boise, ID 83706. E-mail address:
footmd@aol.com
tients with more advanced disease.
This study demonstrates that a simple procedure such as Paul S. Shurnas, MD
cheilectomy tends to reduce elevation of the first ray as the Regional Orthopaedic Health Care, No. 3 Medical Plaza, Mountain
joint functions more normally. We believe that when the joint Home, AR 72653
has deteriorated clinically to the point where elevation of the
first ray is pronounced, it is an indication for metatarsopha- The authors did not receive grants or outside funding in support of their
langeal arthrodesis because first-ray elevation significantly di- research or preparation of this manuscript. They did not receive pay-
ments or other benefits or a commitment or agreement to provide such
minished after arthrodesis in our series. benefits from a commercial entity. No commercial entity paid or
Our study had the longest mean duration of follow-up directed, or agreed to pay or direct, any benefits to any research fund,
after both cheilectomy and arthrodesis for the treatment of foundation, educational institution, or other charitable or nonprofit
hallux rigidus. Ninety-six percent of the patients followed for organization with which the authors are affiliated or associated.
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OSTEOTOMY OF THE CALCANEUM FOR PES CAVUS
Since the publication of my earlier paper (Dwyer 1955) describing the treatment of pes
cavus in children by osteotomy of the calcaneum, many more patients have been operated
upon and the procedure has been extended to embrace the more severe deformities encountered
in older patients. Over five years have now elapsed since the first operation was performed, and
the late results indicate that the procedure is sound.
In children pes cavus develops at any time after the age ofthree, the age ofonset depending
on whether the condition is idiopathic or neurological in origin. In the earlier stages what is
little more than a high arch is well controlled by a metatarsal bar, but in many cases the
deformity progresses to embrace the following characteristics : 1) dropping of the forefoot;
2) contracture of the plantar fascia ; 3) clawing of the toes and callosity formation ; 4) the
gradual development of a varus deformity of the heel and forefoot.
It should be appreciated that, contrary to some text-book descriptions and as pointed
out by Todd (1935), contracture of the calcaneal tendon is not a usual accompaniment of
uncomplicated pes cavus; equinus is confined to the forefoot, and the heel is usually well
developed.
Operations such as those described by Steindler (1921), Lambrinudi (1932), Todd (1935)
and others for the relief of pes cavus have, on the whole, proved disappointing, especially
for well established deformity in adolescents (Fig. 1).
Pes cavus in a patient aged twelve, two years after a Steindler operation.
Whatever the underlying etiology, it is certain that, with the onset of varus, the deformity
rapidly becomes worse. With adduction of the heel three deforming influences appear. First
the calcaneal tendon becomes an active invertor and, since its pull is concentrated largely
on the inner border of the heel, much of its force is transmitted to the thick medial portion
of the plantar fascia (Fig. 2). In consequence the forefoot is pulled towards the heel.
Secondly, the child walks on the outer border of the foot, thus increasing the varus deformity.
THE OPERATION
First the plantar fascia is divided
subcutaneously to reduce the obvious
dropping of the forefoot. The outer aspect
of the calcaneum is then exposed through
a curved incision and the whole flap
turned forwards until the tendon of the
peroneus longus muscle is exposed. The
upper and lower surfaces of the bone are
cleared. A wedge, with its base eight to
twelve millimetres in width, is removed
from the calcaneum just below the peroneus
longus, which is used as a guide (Fig. 3).
FIG. 2
This wedge tapers down to the medial With inversion of the heel, weight bearing and the pull
cortex, which must be broken to ensure of the calcaneal tendon become deforming forces, allowing
the plantar fascia to contract with resultant approximation
complete closure of the resulting gap. of heel and forefoot.
Pressing the forefoot up into dorsiflexion
against the pull of the calcaneal tendon brings the bony surfaces together nicely. Failure to
obtain closure is invariably due to leaving a small piece of the apex behind. (It is important
FIG. 3
Technique of operation. A wedge is removed from the lateral aspect of the calcaneum.
The osteotomy is made just below the peroneus longus tendon and the posterior tab-
calcaneal joint. The medial cortex must be cracked to allow the distal fragment to close
easily.
FIG. 4
Case l-Pes cavus with early varus deformity complicating poliomyeitis in a boy of five.
FIG. 5
Case 1-Three years after operation. Foot virtually normal and toes straight.
FIG. 7
Case 2-Deformity of foot in a boy of six, three years after accidental division of both peroneal tendons and
a year after transplantation of tibialis anterior to base of fourth metatarsal.
FIG. 8
Case 2-The same foot a year after removal of a lateral wedge from the calcaneum.
at this stage to be sure that the varus deformity has been properly corrected and that the
heel is in a neutral or even slightly valgus position.)
DISCUSSION
An early effect of the operation is that walking and shoe wear are remarkably improved.
With the varus deformity of the heel corrected, the forefoot gradually follows and the whole
foot becomes plantigrade. With certain exceptions that will be mentioned later, relapse is
rare and steady improvement takes place provided that the heel has been fully corrected
(Figs. 4 to 12).
The principle underlying this type of correction was well illustrated in a boy of three,
first seen eight months after irreparable division of both peroneal tendons. Transplantation
of the tibialis anterior to the base of the fourth metatarsal two years later, when varus was
already well established, failed to halt the progress of the deformity, which was severe at the
age of six (Fig. 7). Osteotomy of the calcaneum was performed, and, with the heel squarely
on the ground, progressive improvement took place with weight bearing (Fig. 8).
FIG. 9
Case 3-Recurrent cavo-varus deformity in a boy aged twelve, two years after the performance of a Steindler
operation. (Same patient as in Figure 1.)
FIG. 10
Case 3-The same patient four years after wedge osteotomy of the calcaneum. The toes were not operated
upon, and correction of the clawing has been brought about simply by weight bearing after correction of the heel.
Failure to correct fully the varus deformity of the heel will inevitably lead to recurrence
or progress ofthe initial deformity (Fig. 9), and this explains the high incidence of recurrence
after the older types of operation.
Since it was first performed in May 1952 this operation has now been undertaken sixty-
three times in forty-one children aged from three to sixteen years. In all the patients the
improvement, not only in gait and shoe wear, but also in the dropping of the forefoot and
clawing of the toes, has been striking. The early promise has been so well fulfilled by the
passage of time that it seems unnecessary to perform any other operation for established pes
cavus. In patients presenting early with a high arch only and no varus of the heel, a plantar
fasciotomy alone is indicated.
in a few cases it has been necessary to repeat the operation either because complete
correction was not obtained at the first operation or because of real recurrence. The reason
for recurrence may in some instances be the primary tendency, but muscular imbalance seems
to be an important cause because it is particularly in cases of poliomyelitis and spina bifida
that one encounters such recurrence. This was well illustrated in a patient of seven, with
FIG. II
Case 4-Severe deformity of feet in a girl of sixteen.
II. 12
Case 4-Two years after correction of the varus of the heel together with multiple filleting and arthrodesis of
the toes.
marked varus of the heel after poliomyelitis. Good correction was obtained but, two years
later, a second osteotomy was necessary because varus had recurred and, even after that,
there was further recurrence, which was dealt with by transplanting the tibialis anterior to
overcome the relative weakness of the evertors.
Recurrence occurred also in one patient with spina bifida who suffered infection of the
calcaneum after the operation. A persistent sinus cleared up after removal of a sequestrum.
There was then still some varus of the heel and it was rather small and did not come properly
to the ground. Three years after the original operation the varus deformity was corrected by
inserting a bone wedge into the inner side of the calcaneum, which had the effect of increasing
the height of the heel and at the same time improving the deformity.
In six heels the operation was repeated at an interval varying from six to eighteen months
after the original operation because there was some varus deformity, probably because the
initial wedge had been too narrow.
Even in older children, with well established bony deformity of the forefoot, quite
appreciable flattening of the longitudinal arch can be demonstrated some time after correction
of the heel (Figs. 1 1 and 12). The degree of correction seen in Figure 12 is better than average,
and the extent offalling ofthe arch which takes place depends on the age at the time of operation
and on the strength of the bones. In boys, with rather stronger bones than in girls, one does
not expect to see so much change in the cavus element. Nevertheless correction of the heel
overcomes the important problem of excessive wear of the outer sides of the shoes, and also
allows the toes to straighten out if they are malleable. The subjective improvement is much
greater than the objective because the feet are properly balanced.
In patients with pes cavus one seldom encounters real contracture of the calcaneal tendon.
lfsuch contracture is present it must be dealt with first by a separate operation, before correction
of the cavus deformity.
In adults with a high fixed arch, gross varus of the heel and forefoot and clawing of the
toes, good correction can be obtained by the same means. A large lateral wedge is removed
from the heel to correct inversion, and the plantar fascia is divided. The dropped and distorted
forefoot can then be brought up to full correction by taking an appropriate wedge from the
tarso-metatarsal region. It must be appreciated, however, that to achieve sound fusion at
this site takes a good deal longer than is the case with a mid-tarsal wedge. This is a small
price to pay for preservation of mid-tarsal-subtalar movement.
SUMMARY
1 . A new surgical approach to the treatment of pes cavus is suggested. The operation consists
in a subcutaneous division of the contracted plantar fascia and correction of the varus
deformity of the heel by removing a wedge from its lateral aspect. It is submitted that, by
approaching the deformity from behind and overcoming the varus of the heel, the foot is
rendered plantigrade and that thereafter weight bearing exerts a corrective influence which
results in progressive improvement of the deformity. The operation is essentially a prophylactic
one and, for the best results, it should be performed before there is gross structural deformity
and while active growth is still taking place.
2. Even in patients over the age of fourteen, improvement is obtained by doing nothing more
than this simple operation. In the presence of fixed deformity of the forefoot, as encountered
in older patients, inversion is corrected by removing a lateral wedge from the calcaneum and
the cavus by taking a dorsal wedge from the tarso-metatarsal region. This has the double
advantage of producing good correction of deformity, while at the same time preserving
movement at the mid-tarsal-subtalar joint. Fixed clawing of the toes will require appropriate
corrective treatment, but if the toes are malleable the simple effect of weight bearing on the
plantigrade foot produces gradual correction.
REFERENCES
DwYER, F. C. (1955): A New Approach to the Treatment of Pes Cavus. Sixi#{232}me Congr#{232}s de Chirurgie
orthopCdique, Berne, 30 ao#{252}t-3septembre 1954. Soci#{233}t#{233}
Internationale de Chirurgie Orthop#{233}dique et de
Traumatologie, p. 551. Bruxelles: Imprimerie Lielens.
HALLGRLMSSON, 5. (1939): Pes Cavus, seine Behandlung und einige Bemerkungen #{252}ber
seine Atiobogie. Acta
Orthopaedica Scandinavica, 10, 73.
LAMBRINUDI, C. (1932): Use and Abuse of Toes. Post-Graduate Medical Journal, 8, 459.
STEINDLER, A. (1921): The Treatment of Pes Cavus (Hollow Claw Foot). Archives of Surgery, 2, 325.
TODD, A. H. (1935): The Treatment of Pes Cavus. Proceedings of the Royal Society of Medicine (Section of
Orthopaedics), 28, 117.
A discussion of the essential deformity in calcaneo-valgus feet develops a theme originally put forward
in 1961 on the relapsed club foot (Evans 1961). Whereas in the normal foot the medial and lateral columns
are about equal in length, in talipes equino-varus the lateral column is longer and in calcaneo-valgus shorter
than the medial column. The suggestion is that in the treatment of both deformities the length of the columns
be made equal. A method is described of treating calcaneo-valgus deformity by inserting cortical bone grafts
taken from the tibia to elongate the anterior end of the calcaneus.
The material in this article arises out of a mistake removal of too much bone produced a short rigid valgus
made in the treatment of club foot and develops a theme foot with a convex medial border. The radiological
put forward in a previous article in this Journal (Evans features of such a case are shown in Figures 1 to 3. Logic
1961). In that article I described an operation which could suggested that if this shape had been produced by exces-
correct club foot in the older child. It was based on the sive shortening of the lateral column, it should be possible
concept that one element in the deformity of club foot is to improve the shape by lengthening the lateral column
relative overgrowth of the lateral column of the foot, by the insertion of a bone graft. The calcaneo-cuboid
and I suggested that in the older child it might be arthrodesis was therefore undone, the calcaneus and
necessary deliberately to equalise the columns by excising cuboid bones were prised apart and the gap was plugged
bone from the lateral column at the level of the calcaneo- with cortical bone taken from the tibia.
cuboid joint. It was important to excise the correct The result was gratifying and the experience was
amount of bone because removal of too little bone illuminating because it seemed to justify two theoretical
resulted in under-correction of the deformity, whereas assumptions : first, that varus and valgus are opposite
Figure 1-A radiograph of the original relapsed club foot showing the medial displacement of the navicular bone on the head of the talus.
Figure 2-After wedge resection of the calcaneo-cuboid joint. Too much bone has been removed and the talo-navicular dislocation is
over-corrected. The clinical effect is a rigid valgus deformity of the foot. Figure 3-After lengthening the calcaneus. The normal
talo-navicular relationship has been restored and the clinical shape of the foot is satisfactory.
Fio. 8 Fio. 9
The operation. Figure 4-The incision. Figure 5-The exposure. Figure 6-The calcaneus has been divided and the “spreader” is in
position. This instrument, which has proved invaluable, is described in the text. Figure 7-Insertion of the first graft between the blades
of the instrument. Figure 8-Three grafts in position. Figure 9-The wound is usually closed easily.
deformities ; and, second, that the difference between the point at which the lateral column could be effectively
two in terms of tarsal structure lay in the relative lengths shortened in club foot was at the calcaneo-cuboid joint,
of the two columns of the foot. A long lateral column because of the need to pull the navicular bone laterally
was associated with varus deformity of the tarsus, includ- in relation to the talus. It was obviously desirable,
ing a varus heel and possibly also equinus, whereas a however, to preserve the calcaneo-cuboid joint, and it
short lateral column was associated with valgus deformity seemed reasonable to think that if the calcaneus itself
of the tarsus, including a valgus heel and possibly also could be lengthened near its anterior end this might have
calcaneus deformity. the effect of pushing the navicular bone medially and so
If these assumptions are sound it should be possible straightening the foot. It was reasonable, therefore, to
to improve other calcaneo-valgus deformities by lengthen- do an osteotomy of the anterior end of the calcaneus
ing the lateral border ofthe foot; but at what level should about 1 .5 centimetres behind the calcaneo-cuboid joint
it be lengthened ? Experience had shown that the only and in a plane parallel with that joint. The two parts of
.a 12
A boy, born in November 1949, developed anterior poliomyelitis at the age of I 5 months which caused a calcaneo-valgus deformity of
the left foot. This deformity, which was passively correctable, was treated by talo-navicular arthrodesis in the hope that this would hold
the foot in the corrected position. It failed to do so. In July 1959, when he was 10, the left calcaneus was elongated. It was found that this
corrected the deformity but only after the talo-navicular arthrodesis had been undone to free the midtarsal joint. Figures 10 and I 1 show
the clinical appearance before and after the operation and Figures 12 and 13 show the radiographs before and after the lengthening
of the calcaneus.
the calcaneus could then be forced apart to lengthen the foot, but before discussing indications and contra-
lateral column, and the gap could be plugged with bone. indications, I shall describe the operation.
The first case chosen for this operation was that of
a calcaneo-valgus deformity resulting from poliomyelitis
THE OPERATION
-in a foot that had been selected for triple arthrodesis-
and it was found that what had been anticipated in theory The operation is constant in principle but the practical
came about in practice. As the anterior part of the details vary with the aetiology of the valgus deformity.
calcaneus was pushed forward, the valgus deviation of The constant factors are shown in Figures 4 to 9.
the forefoot disappeared, the heel took up a more varus An incision is made over thelateralsurface ofthe calcaneus
position and passive extension at the ankle became more parallel with, andjust above, the peroneal tendons, avoid-
restricted. it was apparent as this was happening that ing the sural nerve lest it become involved in the scar.
if the calcaneus were lengthened enough the equinovarus The anterior half of the bone is exposed and the calcaneo-
deformity of club foot would be produced. cuboid joint is identified. The anterior end of the cal-
The clinical result was encouraging and it seemed caneus is then divided through its narrow part in front
justifiable to apply the operation to other types of valgus of the peroneal tubercle by an osteotome, the line of
A boy sustained a cut over the inner side of the left foot at the age of 6 which divided the tendon of tibialis posterior. He developed a
secondary valgus and planus deformity ofthe foot. The calcaneus was elongated at the age of 15 years. Figures 14 and 15 show the clinical
appearance before and after operation, and Figures 16 and 17 the corresponding radiographs.
is withdrawn. Inspection of the foot at this stage will navicular bone is displaced laterally in relation to the
reveal that the forepart of the foot has become adducted, head of the talus-that is, the reverse of the deformity
that the heel has moved into varus and that extension of of club foot.
the ankle:has become less free. The spreader is removed The operation has been done on fifty-six feet. Four
and further grafts are inserted above and below the first operations were for over-corrected talipes equino-varus,
graft to ensure that the two cut surfaces of the calcaneus twenty-five for deformities resulting from poliomyelitis
remain apart. All grafts are obtained from the tibia of (Figs. 10 to 13 and 18 and 19), two for deformity following
the same side. The wound is then closed and the foot traumatic division of the tendon of tibialis posterior in
immobilised comfortably in plaster in a position of slight infancy (Figs. 14 to 17), nine for rigid flat foot, and
equino-varus. The plaster is retained for about four eighteen for idiopathic valgus (Figs. 20 to 29) including
months to allow consolidation of the new calcaneus, but one case of Marfan’s syndrome (Figs. 30 to 33). It has
weight-bearing is allowed at four weeks. No after-care been found (Figs. 18 to 25) that the operation restricts
is needed when the plaster is removed. extension of the ankle and that it reduces the range of
A boy presented at the age of 15 because of pain in the calves of both legs after activity. His feet were found to be of the plano-valgus-
abductus type and the calcaneal lengthening was done on both feet. Figures 20 and 21 show the clinical appearance before and after
operation and the range of movement before and after this is shown in Figures 22 and 23, from which it is seen that there has been restriction
of dorsifiexion. Figures 24 and 25 are the radiographs before and after operation.
side-to-side movements in the foot by eliminating exces- be possible to obtain full correction at a second operation
sive eversion. An occasional, and unnecessary, error has done two or three years later.
been damage to the sural nerve, which produces a painful Experience has shown that it is not possible to over-
scar and sensory impairment along the lateral border of correct valgus deformity ofthis aetiology. On the contrary,
the foot. adequate correction may be difficult because sufficient
Calcaneo-valgus from poliomyelitis (Figs. 10 to 13 and separation of the divided parts of the calcaneus may not
18 and 19)-The ideal age for correction is between eight be possible without dividing all the soft tissues on the
and twelve years, but the operation can be done earlier lateral side of the foot, including the peroneal tendons.
if the severity of the deformity makes this necessary. If When this has been done, difficulty in skin closure becomes
done early in life, or if the deformity is very severe, the limiting factor.
the operation may have to be repeated between the ages Rigid flat foot-These cases tend to present in early
of eight and twelve. Full correction may not be possible adolescence ; the foot is rigid and, as in paralytic cases,
with severe deformity at the first attempt, but it should it tends to resist correction ; the soft tissues have to be
I._. __ 1-._. 29
A child of 12 had idiopathic calcaneo-valgus feet, with no symptoms but the muscles were weak and the movements of inversion and eversion
were restricted. The parents were concerned about the shape of the feet. Figures 26 and 27 show the clinical appearance before and after
calcaneal lengthening and the radiograph before operation is shown in Figure 28 and another, taken ten years afterwards, in Figure 29.
divided and over-correction is not possible. The opera- in radiographs taken standing. Such cases do not usually
tion has succeeded in feet in which a calcaneo-navicular present until about the age of eight, and it is important
bar has been present. The shape of the foot is slightly to know that over-correction is possible and that it is all
improved but the most gratifying features are relief of too easy to produce an equinovarus deformity. In this
pain and a subjective feeling of freedom within the foot. group the calcaneus should be lengthened only as far as is
Severe idiopathic valgus (Figs. 20 to 33)-Here it is necessary to produce a normal shape ; the soft tissues must
necessary to distinguish between simple mild valgus which not bedivided and the peroneal tendons must not be injured.
is a variant of normal, and severe valgus which is clearly Conditions in which the operation is confra-indicated-
abnormal. Correction is necessary only when deformity The operation is inappropriate for neurological disorders
is severe and the foot is obviously abnormal, with marked including spasticity in children and spina bifida. Over-
valgus of the heel and of the forefoot and with a convex correction is too prevalent in spastic disorders, and in
bulging medial border; lateral displacement of the navi- spina bifida the calcaneus is too soft to allow correction
cular in relation to the head of the talus will be seen and the grafts tend to sink into the bone.
A boy, born in February 1957, presented in June 1961. He had Marfan’s syndrome, with long feet, plano-valgus in shape, and hypermobile.
There was also valgus deviation and pronation at the midtarsal joints with a valgus deformity of the heels on weight-bearing. The head of
the talus was prominent on the medial side ofeach foot. The left calcaneus was elongated in June 1961 and the right calcaneus in June 1962.
The wound on the right foot failed to heal by first intention and a skin-graft was necessary. Figures 30 and 31 show the clinical appearance,
and Figures 32 and 33 the radiographs, also before and after calcaneal lengthening.
I wish to thank Miss B. Wales and Mr C. M. Walker of the Departments of Radiology and Clinical Photography at the Prince of Wales
Orthopaedic Hospital for their contribution to this article and Miss L. M. Thomas, Miss M. A. Angove and Miss H. R. Taylor for their
secretarial help.
REFERENCES
Dwyer, F. C. (1959) Osteotomy of the calcaneum for pes cavus. Journal ofBone and Joint Surgery, 41-B, 80-86.
Evans, D. (1961) Relapsed club foot. Journal ofBone andJoint Surgery, 43-B, 722-733.
Injuries to the tarsometatarsal (Lisfranc) joint are not common, and the results of treatment are often
unsatisfactory. Since no individual is likely to see many such injuries, we decided to make a retrospective
study of patients from five different centres. In this way 119 patients with injuries of the Lisfranc joint have
been collected. This paper classifies these injuries and describes their incidence, mechanism of production,
methods of treatment, results and complications. Sixty-nine of the patients attended for review: 35 of these
had been treated by closed methods, 27 had had an open reduction and seven patients had had no treatment.
On the basis ofour study we suggest that these injuries should be classified according to the type of injury
rather than the nature of the deforming force and that their treatment be based upon this classification. It
seems that, whatever the severity of the initial injury, prognosis depends on accurate reduction and its
maintenance.
and are said to occur at the rate of one person per 55 000 #{231}\
per year (Aitken and Poulson 1963 ; English 1964). They TYPE B
CLASSIFICATION
TYPE C %“IIil “UM’
Previous classifications have been based on the mecha- DIVERGENT
forces the foot must be in plantarfiexion for dislocation affects one or more of the lateral four metatarsals but the
to occur (Wiley 197 1 The dorsal aspect of the Lisfranc
). first metatarsal is not affected.
joint is unable to resist tensile forces of any magnitude, Type C. Divergent. There may be partial or total
in contrast to the much stronger soft-tissue support on incongruity. On an anteroposterior radiograph the first
the plantar aspect. Forces applied to the plantarfiexed metatarsal is seen to be displaced medially, while any
foot may be angular or rotational; since they are applied combination of the lateral four metatarsals may be
at a point distant from the joint they are collectively displaced laterally. Sagittal displacement occurs in
called indirect forces. conjunction with the coronal displacement.
Number of patients
35 42
40
I
20
10
2 I I 2 44 2 II 3 I 2 42
Fig. 2
Concomitant injuries involving the foot in 1 19 cases of Lisfranc injury.
Table I. Treatment and results weeks after injury. An arch support or surgical shoe was then fitted and
worn for three to six months. Most patients liked surgical shoes, but
Operative reduction 6 3 3 could stand on tip-toe, had a normal gait, no deformity, and a
radiograph which showed at most minimal degeneration. “Fair”
B. Partial implied moderate pain on activity, difficulty standing on tip-toe, a
Medial Closed 14 4 -
limp, a foot of reasonably good shape, and slight to moderate
Operative reduction 2 3 -
radiographic evidence of degeneration. “Poor” implied marked pain
Lateral Closed 10 4 2 which affected the ability to walk, inability to stand on tip-toe, limp,
Operative reduction 4 - - deformity, and radiographic evidence of moderate to severe
degeneration.
C. Divergent Closed - - I
Operative reduction I I -
Obviously not all patients were in the same group for every one of
these features, so an overall assessment was used. Table I summarises
The patient with above-knee amputation has not been included in the relationship between our classification, the treatment used and the
these results. end result.
RESULTS
Of the I 19 patients, primary closed reduction was successful in 69;
Type A: Total (22 patients). There were 15 good, four fair
43 required open reduction (which, in 16 cases was performed 2 to 12
weeks after injury); and seven patients were left untreated. and three poor results in this group. In one case where
The subsequent management was in most instances the same, reduction was held in a plastercast without any Kirschner
whether reduction was by closed or open methods. A plaster cast, open wires, redisplacement occurred (Figs 3 to 10). In eight
anteriorly, was applied and the leg elevated. Two weeks later a below-
patients closed reduction was held with percutaneous
knee walking plaster was applied. Where internal fixation had been
used, progressive weight-bearing was allowed unless prevented by other Kirschner wires, and all obtained good results. Open
injuries. The cast and any Kirschner wires were removed six to eight reduction was performed in 12 patients ; three had fair
Fig. 7 Fig. 8
Figures 3 and 4 -Anteroposterior and lateral views of Type A with
lateral displacement found at operation. With only these views it is
difficult to define whether the displacement is plantar or dorsal. 5 and 6-Redisplacement
Figures is evident on the films in plaster. Figures
7 and 8- Anteroposterior and lateral radiographs demonstrating the ideal positioning of the two Kirschner wires with Type A injuries.
Figures 9 and 10-Three years after injury milddegenerative changes are seen in the entire Lisfranc joint.
and three had poor results. One patient with a fair result redisplacement after closed reduction without fixation
had redisplaced after closed reduction and plaster; open are the main causes of unsatisfactory results.
reduction was not performed until three months after Type B: Partial (43 patients). There were 30 good, 1 1 fair
injury. A second patient with a fair result had a total and two poor results. There was little difference between
medial and dorsal displacement with open fractures of those treated by closed and those treated by open
the cuboid bone; his postoperative course was compli- methods ; nor did the direction of displacement (plantar
cated by sepsis. The third patient with a fair result had or dorsal) affect the results. When the first metatarsal was
dorsolateral displacement with fractures of the second, openly reduced two patients had a good result and three
third and fourth metatarsals which were reduced, but fair. Two patients with fair results were men aged 48 in
only a single Kirschner wire was used for stabilisation; whom delayed open reduction and Kirschner wire
at review he had a cavus deformity with associated pain fixation had been performed two and eight weeks
in the Lisfranc joint and a limp. respectively after the injury (Figs 1 1 to 16 ; 17 to 22) ; both
Two of the poor results in this group were in patients soon redisplaced with consequent pain, mild deformity
who required early amputation of the forefoot for and severe osteoarthritis. The other patient had open
ischaemia. The third patient with a poor result had a reduction and stabilisation with a single Kirschner wire
total dislocation medially, with associated fractures of as a primary procedure ; however, at follow-up redisplace-
the navicular and medial cuneiform. Redislocation ment was evident.
occurred in plaster following the initial closed reduction Two patients with fair results had had a closed
and a second reduction was performed two weeks later; reduction held with a single percutaneous Kirschner
although this was anatomically accurate and was held wire; at follow-up there was clinical evidence of deform-
with percutaneous Kirschner wires, he developed severe ity, though when redislocation occurred is unknown.
degenerative changes. The two poor results, when only a single metatarsal
Comment. In this type of injury, forefoot ischaemia and was displaced (Type B lateral injuries), were treated by
closed reduction and plaster. At review dorsal angulation ment, with or without fracture of the first metatarsal, is
was apparent at the fracture site and was associated with an unstable injury and redisplacement occurred unless
metatarsalgia. more than one stabilising wire was used (Figs 23 to 27).
Comment. Redisplacement in the lateral group resulted Type C: Divergent (three patients). Only three patients
from failure to use Kirschner wire stabilisers. Displace- with this rare injury were reviewed. One had a good
Fig. 19 Fig. 20
I,
I Fig. 27
nution, or a large articular fragment. Diastasis between In several cases good results followed open reduction
the medial and intermediate cuneiform bones suggests up to six weeks after injury. However, the two patients
interposition of the tibialis anterior tendon. In such cases treated by open reduction and fixation after this period
and, indeed, whenever closed reduction is inadequate, had only fair results. It is probably better not to attempt
open reduction should be performed as soon as possible reduction after six weeks.
and certainly within six weeks of the injury. Primary arthrodesis is advocated by Granberry and
The absolute indication for open reduction is Lipscomb (1962) and by Bonnel and Barth#{233}l#{233}my (1976).
vascular insufficiency that does not improve after closed We have had no experience with this procedure but it is
reduction. We suggest the technique advocated by possible that it may have a place in those injuries where
Gissane 1 95 1 ), where
( both dorsalis pedis and posterior there is considerable comminution and where mainte-
tibial arteries are explored. In the two cases of forefoot nance of reduction by internal fixation is difficult.
ischaemia in our series, open reduction was performed Niederecker (1956) recommended arthrodesis of the
but the posterior tibial artery was not explored and metatarsocuneiform joint as a standard procedure in all
gangrene developed. dislocations involving the first metatarsal. Certainly in
For open reduction in the absence of ischaemia, the our series redisplacement sometimes occurred when only
longitudinal incisions advocated by Aitken and Poulson a single Kirschner wire was used, and we therefore
(1963) give adequate exposure. The first incision is recommend using two wires.
between the first and second metatarsals, and the second With regard to after-care, previous reports recom-
(if a second is needed) is made more laterally over the mend non-weight-bearing for a period of at least six
tarsometatarsal joint. With these incisions skin necrosis weeks after injury. We found, however, that taking
and contracture, which may follow transverse or plantar weight as soon as the swelling subsided (approximately
incisions, do not occur. A single midline incision also two weeks) did not seem to affect the final outcome,
may lead to necrosis because excessive skin retraction is provided the foot was protected in a plaster cast and
necessary to obtain access. reduction stabilised by internal fixation.
The authors would like to thank Professor Sydney Nade, Professor ofOrthopaedic Surgery, Queen Elizabeth Medical Centre. Nedlands, Western
Australia, for his assistance in preparing this paper.
REFERENCES
Aitken AP, Poulson D. Dislocation of the tarsometatarsaljoint. J Bone Joint Surg [Am] 1963 45-A : 246-60.
B#{246}hlerL. Dislocations in Lisfranc’s joint. In : Wallner A and Russe 0, translators. The treatment o/fracture.s, 5th English edition. New York:
Grune and Stratton, l958;3:213&-7.
Bonnel F, Barth#{234}l#{234}my
M. Traumatismes de l’articulation de Lisfranc : entroses graves, luxations, fractures : #{233}tudede 39 observations personnelle
et classification biomecanique. J Chir (Paris) 1976; 1 1 1 : 573-92.
Cassebaum WH. Lisfranc fracture-dislocations. C/in Orthop l963;30: 1 16-28.
Engelhardt P, Ganz R. Die Luxationsfrakturen des Lisfranc Gelenkes. Orthopadische praxis der haden badt’nr.s rei/ze 1975 9 : 896--8.
English TA. Dislocations of the metatarsal bone and adjacent toe. J Bone Joint Surg [Br] 1964:46-B :700-4.
Francesconi F. Sopra un caso di lussazione di Lisfranc. Chir Organi Moe 1925;9:589-604.
Gissane W. A dangerous type of fracture of the foot. J Bone Joint Surg [Br] 1951 :33-B: 535-8.
Granberry WM, Lipscomb PR. Dislocation of the tarsometatarsaljoints. Surg Gvneco/ Obstet 1962 ; 114: 467-9.
Jeifreys TE. Lisfranc’s fracture-dislocation : a clinical and experimental study of tarso-metatarsal dislocations and fracture-dislocations. J Bone
Joint Surg [Br] I963 :45-B: 546-51.
Niederecker K. Operative Behandlung der MittlefussknochenbrOche. Verh Dtsch Ges Orthop 1956:44: 358-63.
Qu#{234}nuE, KBss G. #{201}tudesur les luxations du metatarse (luxations m#{233}tatarsotarsiennes) du diastasis entre le I et le 2e metatarsien. Ret Chir I 909:
39: 281-336, 720-91, 1093-134.
Rainaut JJ, Cedard D, d’Hour JP. Les luxations tarsometatarsiennes. Rev Chir Orthop 1966:52:449-62.
Wiley ii. The mechanism of tarso-metatarsaljoint injuries. J Bone Joint Surg [Br] 1971 :53-B :474-82.
Wilppula E. Tarsometatarsal fracture-dislocation. Acta Orthop Scand 1973:44:335-45.
Wilson DW. Injuries of the tarso-metatarsal joints. J Bone Joint Surg [Br] 1972 54-B : 677-86.
Key words: SER II fractures, tibiotalar contact area, Weber B fractures, ankle fracture
S upination-external rotation (SER) injuries of the ankle distal fibula. Ramsey and Hamilton (8) concluded that lat-
eral displacement of the talus can be significant enough to
comprise 40% to 55% of malleolar fractures (1). Approxi- alter tibiotalar joint dynamics in isolated fibular fractures
mately 85% of fractures of the lateral malleolus occur and an intact deltoid ligament, thereby supporting the need
without substantial injury to the medial side of the ankle for surgical repair. Curtis et al (17) also found a decrease in
joint (2, 3). There has been an extensive debate over
tibiotalar contact area with shortening and external rotation
whether or not surgical correction is needed for Lauge-
of the fibula with an intact deltoid ligament.
Hansen SER stage II ankle fractures (1, 4 –16). Many of
There are several reports that have shown that the tibio-
these studies focus on the need for anatomic reduction of the
talar contact area decreases only when the deltoid ligament
is severed (1, 7, 18). Michelson et al (18) reported that
From the Department of Podiatric Surgery, Oakwood Healthcare Sys- tibiotalar contact area does not significantly change with
tem, Dearborn, MI. lateral displacement of the fibula without sectioning the
1
Submitted During Second-Year Surgical Residency, Oakwood Health-
care System. deltoid ligament. Moody et al (1), while investigating SER
2
Diplomate, American Board of Podiatric Surgery; Director, Podiatric IV ankle fractures without medial malleolar fractures, found
Surgery Residency, Oakwood Healthcare System.
Address correspondence to: Lawrence Fallat, DPM, FACFAS, Director,
that tibiotalar contact area decreases with lateral shift of the
Podiatric Surgical Residency, Oakwood Healthcare System, 20555 Ecorse talus. Thordarson et al (7) found increased tibiotalar contact
Rd, Taylor, MI 48180. E-mail: lfallatdpm@aol.com pressures with shortening, lateral displacement, and external
Copyright © 2004 by the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons
1067-2516/04/4301-0002$30.00/0 rotation of the distal fibula after sectioning the deltoid
doi:10.1053/j.jfas.2003.11.008 ligament.
Results
maintain the structural integrity of the limb. Other studies into contact with the cadaveric specimen only on the tibia
reviewed removed all soft tissue with the exception of and the fibula. This apparatus held the distal fibula in a fixed
ligaments from their cadaveric specimens (7, 10, 17–24, 31, space, in relation to the rest of the limb, during axial loading
33, 41). in an attempt to replicate actual conditions as close as
Effects on tibiotalar contact area of simultaneous dis- possible. This most likely resulted in a more realistic stres-
placement posteriorly and superiorly of the fibula have not sor.
been studied. In contrast, other studies (7, 10, 17, 24) There are several limitations in this study. First, the
examined just shortening of the fibula, without posterior sample size of 12 specimens was relatively small. Never-
displacement as this study did. The displacement of the theless, our findings were highly statistically significant.
fibula in 2 planes, as in this study, verses 1 affords a There is an inherent degree of imprecision when dealing
possible difference in results between this study and others with cadavers and fitting of pressure film in the joint;
(7, 10, 24). Lateral displacement alone had an increased loss therefore, some variability is unavoidable. Regardless, we
of tibiotalar contact area compared with the posterior and feel this study was accurate enough to indicate that displace-
superior displacement without lateral displacement. Perhaps ment of the lateral malleolus both laterally and posterosu-
with lateral displacement of the fibula, the eventual restrain- periorly results in significant loss of ankle joint contact area
ing mechanism of displacement of the talus becomes the with the deltoid ligament intact.
deltoid ligament. There are no osseous structures that phys- Second, true spiral oblique fractures are unable to be
ically block lateral displacement of the talus. With pure replicated with a saw. As such, the difference between the
superior displacement only, there may still be some residual experimentally induced and the clinical fracture configura-
impairment of lateral talar shift. tions cannot be determined.
Also, the apparatus that was designed and built for this Last, we tried to minimize slippage by ensuring that the
investigation held the distal fibula in a malaligned position, limb was perpendicular to the supporting surface. However,
allowing for axial loading of the limb without artificially limb migration in increments not visible to the naked eye
inducing the talus to displace. Artificially inducing the talus could have occurred and modified the results.
to move laterally is quite often considered a shortcoming of Future areas of research may involve measuring the ac-
other studies (1, 8). The apparatus used in this study came tual stresses such as shear stresses within the pathologic
Dysfunction of the tibialis posterior tendon evolves casions, have only an aching along the medial
through a series of stages. The pain symptoms, aspect of the ankle that is exacerbated by
clinical signs, and roentgenographic changes for physical activity and has probably modified
each of these stages are characteristic. This stag-
ing system permits clarificationand individualiza- his or her activities to be less strenuous. Al-
tion of dysfunction, expected pathologic changes, though it may be difficult for patients to local-
and surgical treatment. The importance of the tibi- ize the discomfort, with specific questioning
alis posterior tendon in normal hindfoot function they will point along the course of the TPT
and its treatment when injured are now being prop- from a few centimeters proximal to the tip of
erly appreciated.
the medial malleolus to its major attachment
Afflictions of the tibialis posterior tendon at the undersurface of the navicular. The on-
(TPT) are now being recognized and treated set of pain will have been gradual, and only
with increased frequency and ',I2 infrequently can an inciting episode be re-
It is important to be aware of this problem called. Occasionally, a young athlete will re-
and its stages of presentation in order to make member a twisting episode with subsequent
a proper diagnosis. This article reviews the persistent pain.
evolving concepts of presentation and formu- On examination, the points of maximal
lates a plan of rational care. tenderness will be detected along the tendon
from just before it passes around the medial
DIAGNOSTIC AND RADIOGRAPHIC malleolus to its navicular insertion. When lo-
CONSIDERATIONS calized, the site of tenderness corresponds
The stages of TPT dysfunction are quite well to areas of TPT pathologic changes.
distinct (Table 1). Each stage will be discussed Swelling is best appreciated by viewing the
with regard to pain symptoms, physical find- standing patient from a posterior vantage.
ings, and roentgenographic changes. Fullness of the region just inferior to the me-
dial malleolus is evident when compared
STAGE1-TENDON LENGTHNORMAL with the unaffected foot. The alignment of
Many TPT problems remain unrecognized the hindfoot-forefoot will still be normal at
because pain symptoms are only mild to this stage.
moderate. The patient may, on multiple oc- In the authors' experience, manual testing
for weakness has been essentially useless. It
has been suggested2that testing the TPT with
Dr. Johnson is Consultant in Orthopedics, Mayo the hindfoot in eversion and the forefoot in
Clinic Scottsdale, Scottsdale, Arizona, and Professor of abduction with toe flexors relaxed will elimi-
Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Medical School, Rochester,
Minnesota. nate the synergistic action of the tibialis ante-
Dr. Strom is a Fellow in Foot Surgery, Mayo Clinic rior and flexor digitorum longus, thus allow-
Scottsdale, Scottsdale, Arizona. ing determination of the strength of the TPT.
Reprint requests to Kenneth A. Johnson, M.D., Mayo
Clinic Scottsdale, 13400 East Shea Blvd., Scottsdale, AZ However, because the TPT power is so
85259. strong, and probably because of substitution
196
Number 239
February, 1989 Tibialis Posterior Tendon Dysfunction 197
by the other extrinsic muscle-tendon units in much in the way of secondary deformity, and
spite of efforts to negate them, this method of overall forefoot-hindfoot alignment will be
testing has not been accurate when correlated unaffected. On routine standing roentgeno-
with surgical findings. grams the changes will be minimal. If the di-
The single-heel-rise test is very good for agnosis is in question, magnetic resonance
testing TPT strength. The patient is asked to imaging (MRI) may demonstrate if tendon
rise up on the ball of the foot while the other degeneration is present.
foot is held off the ground (the patient may
use a door or wall for balance). The normal STAGE 2-TENDON ELONGATED,
sequence for a single-heel rise is as follows. HINDFOOTMOBILE
First, the TPT is activated, which inverts and
locks the hindfoot, thus providing a rigid From Stage 1 to Stage 2 the change in
structure. Next, the gastrosoleus muscle symptoms evolves over several months to
group pulls up the calcaneus and the heel rise years. During Stage 1, when pain is mild to
is completed. With elongation of the TPT, moderate, patients have often seen a physi-
however, the initial heel inversion is weak cian but were not given a specific diagnosis.
and the patient either rises up incompletely Often these patients have been told to live
without locking the heel or does not get up on with the discomfort. In Stage 2, the pain in-
the ball of the foot at all (Figs. 1A and 1 B). In creases in seventy and distribution, is present
the Stage 1 condition, the patient usually will even after cessation of weight bearing, and is
be able to get up on the ball of the affected significantly troublesome. The patient has al-
foot and will be able to tell that it is more ready applied for a handicapped parking
painful and somewhat weaker than the other sticker and actively wants relief. Pain is lo-
side. At this early stage, there will not be cated along the TPT for a greater length. The
ClinicalOrthopaedics
198 Johnson and Strom and Related Research
FIGS.1A AND 1B. The single-heel-rise test. (A) Normal. The TPT inverts the hindfoot and the patient
rises on the forefoot. (B) Abnormal. Ability to rise on the forefoot is decreased or absent. Instead, the
patient just rolls to the outside ofthe foot. (By permission of Mayo Foundation.)
tendon has been disrupted, and secondary a direct posterior midline vantage, the exam-
changes are developing. Swelling with tender- iner counts the number of toes on each foot
ness is still present inferior to the medial mal- that are visible laterally. As the heel goes into
leolus when viewed posteriorly. increased resting eversion and the forefoot
The single-heel-rise test becomes even goes into abduction, too many toes are seen
more abnormal because the tendon is weak- on the affected side. The number of extra toes
ened. Another helpful diagnostic sign is that seen is a recordable measurement of the de-
of “too many toes,” i.e., seeing more toes gree of deformity and is surprisingly repro-
than normal from this view (Fig. 2). In this ducible.
test, the patient is asked to assume a comfort- Changes on routine standing roentgeno-
able knee-leg alignment toward a wall. From grams now become evident. To understand
these changes, it is useful to think of the foot
as consisting of only two pieces (Figs. 3A-
3C). One piece, the talus, is fixed in the ankle
mortise. It can move only in flexion-exten-
sion, not in a varus-valgus plane. The second
piece of the foot is everything else, i.e., the
calcaneus, cuboid, navicular, and bones dis-
talward move as a unit with motion being in
a varus-valgus plane through the subtalar
joint. With elongation ofthe TPT, the second
piece rotates from beneath the talus laterally
to produce a hindfoot in valgus and a forefoot
in abduction. When the head of the talus is
left unsupported, the talus flexes.
The changes on routine roentgenograms
FIG.2. “Too many toes.” This patient had right are then predictable. On the anteroposterior
TPT dysfunction. Four toes show on the right with
forefoot abduction, but only two toes show on the (AP) view, the forefoot will be abducted in re-
normal left foot. (From Johnson.* By permission lation to the hindfoot. Also, the navicular will
of J. B. Lippincott.) have subluxed off the head of the talus and
Number 239
February, 1989 Tibialis Posterior Tendon Dysfunction 199
A
Frontal View
B I Superior Vlew I
I FIGS. 3A-3C. Two-piece
concept of foot. (A) Talus is
II i
!
held in the ankle mortise while
the calcaneus rotates laterally
because of loss of TPT func-
tion. (B) The second piece (cal-
caneus, cuboid, navicular, and
bones distalward) moves to
produce forefoot abduction.
(C) As the sustentaculum tali of
the calcaneus moves from be-
neath the talus, the talus rotates
A
into a plantar-flexed position.
B
Lateral Vlew
C
the angle between the long axes of the talus helpf~l.~.In the authors' experience, however,
and the calcaneus will be increased. In a lat- this is not the case. Either the diagnosis is so
eral view, there will be sagging at the talus- evident that it is not necessary or in cases of
navicular joint and divergence of the long difficult diagnosis the tenogram is equivocal.
axis of the talus from the long axis of the cal-
caneus, STAGE 3-TENDON ELONGATED,
If the diagnosis is in question, MRI' can HINDFOOT AND STIFF
DEFORMED
show a tendon discontinuity as well as a prox-
imal balling-up ofthe tendon (Fig. 4). At first, The pain may transfer to the lateral aspect
it might be thought that a tenogram would be of the hindfoot and be located over the sinus
Clinical Orthopaedics
200 Johnson and Strorn and Related Research
STAGE1-TENDON LENGTHNORMAL
FIG.5 . Acquired pes planus as a late result of
TPT rupture. (From Johnson.*By permission of At this stage,
- the length of the tendon ap-
J. B. Lippincott.) pears normal. This early presentation, how-
Number 239
February, 1989 Tibialis Posterior Tendon Dysfunction 201
ever, is the most varied and hardest to de- months, trials of antiinflammatory agents,
scribe and explain. In some instances, there is rest, arch supports, and perhaps medial shoe
almost a pure peritendinitis. That is, when wedges or orthotics may be appropriate. Be-
the TPT retinaculum is opened, much clear cause steroid injection has been implicated in
amber synovial fluid will escape.I3 The ten- , ~use is not suggested. If
tendon ~ e a k e n i n gits
don itself will look and feel essentially nor- improvement does not occur, then the surgi-
mal, but a luxuriant synovial proliferation cal treatment just outlined should be used to
will be present within the tendon sheath. In break the inflammation cycle. This applies
other cases, there will be minimal synovial also to patients with rheumatoid arthritis in
fluid and synovial thickening; however, in whom loss of TPT function and subsequent
this case the tendon, in a location just distal deformity can be as disabling as some large
to the medial malleolus, will be firm and have joint involvement.
an off-white color (Fig. 6A). There may be
some longitudinal split tears within the ten-
don substance, and it may be enlarged in a STAGE 2-TENDON ELONGATED,
bulbous configuration to almost twice the HINDFOOTMOBILE
normal tendon width.” This would be a pure
tendon degeneration. Combinations of peri- In this situation, the tendon may show
tendinitis and degeneration may also be seen. marked degeneration over several centime-
Still, the tendon length appears normal. It is ters. The tendon is enlarged and has multiple
unclear whether the different presentations longitudinal tears with secondary adhesions
represent different causes, e.g., peritendinitis to the tendon sheath. It will be a varied yel-
from systemic inflammatory disease or de- lowish white-brown color and firm in consis-
generation from acute traumatic interstitial tency. Proximal to the directly involved re-
tears. gion, the tendon will have a peculiar white,
The current treatment in this situation fish-flesh appearance if the tear is old and ten-
(Fig. 6B) is to open the sheath from the TPT sion has not been transmitted through the
musculotendinous junction all the way to its tendon for some time. In other situations,
insertion, leaving only a 1-cm pulley just pos- there will be a single complete transverse tear
terior to the medial malleolus.18 Synovec- of the tendon with rounding off of the tendon
tomy is performed and the tendon is de- ends. The tendon that remains will then have
brided. If the tendon is enlarged to more than the off-white, fish-flesh appearance.
1.5 times its normal size, a wedge is removed When the TPT has been elongated, the
from the substance to debulk the tendon and flexor digitorum longus (FDL) is transferred
the gap is sutured closed.” Small flap tears to substitute for the TPT.4,6,8*’2 This transfer
are debrided and larger tears are sutured. As entails detaching the FDL distally and rein-
the wound is closed, some betamethasone is serting it into the undersurface of the navicu-
left around the tendon. A short-leg walking lar through a drill hole (Figs. 7A-8G).
cast is then applied and worn for three weeks. The distal portion of the FDL does not
This treatment method seems to be suc- need to be tenodesed to the adjacent flexor
cessful in stopping the inflammation and ten- hallucis longus tendon. The intrinsic toe
don degeneration that would otherwise pro- flexors are So good in the foot that leaving the
ceed to Stage 2 changes. In a few cases, excis- distal stump alone will cause no functional
ing or reattaching the tendon was not loss in lesser toe function later. Avoiding this
~atisfactory.~ tenodesis also allows a greater length of FDL
It is important that the patient with Stage to be used for transfer.
1 physical findings does not progress to Stage Should the FDL be left in its own sheath
2 or 3 with conservative care. For three to six or rerouted through the flexor hallucis longus
Clincal Onhopaedlcs
202 Johnson and Strom and Related Research
FIGS.6A AND 6B. Medial view of right foot. (A) TPT is exposed, leaving a pulley just posterior to the
medial malleolus. The off-white discoloration of the tendon just distal to the medial malleolus is seen.
(B) At completion of the surgical procedure, the tendon sheath has been released and synovectomy is
completed.
Number 239
February, 1989 Tibialis Posterior Tendon Dysfunction 203
4. Funk, D. A., Cass, J. R., and Johnson, K. A.: Ac- nor tibial muscle. J. Bone Joint Surg. 35A:1006.
quired adult flat foot secondary to posterior tibial- 1953.
tendon pathology. J. Bone Joint Surg. 68A:95, 1986. II. Leach, R. E., DeIorio, E., and Harney, R. A,: Patho-
5. Gilula, L. A., Oloff, L., Caputi, R., Destouet, J. M., logic hindfoot conditions in the athlete. Clin. Or-
Jacobs, A,, and Solomon, M. A.: Ankle tenography: thop. 177:I 16, 1983.
A key to unexplained symptomatology. Radiology 12. Mann, R. A., and Thompson, F. M.: Rupture of the
151:581, 1984. posterior tibial tendon causing flat foot. J. Bone
6. Goldner, J. L., Keats, P. K., Bassett, F. H. 111, and Joint Surg. 67A:556, 1985.
Clippinger, F. W.: Progressive talipes equinovalgus 13. Mueller, T. J.: Ruptures and lacerations of the tibi-
due to trauma or degeneration of the posterior tibial alis posterior tendon. J. Am. Podiatr. Med. Assoc.
tendon and medial plantar ligaments. Orthop. Clin. 74: 109, 1984.
North Am. 939, 1974. 14. Nonis, S. H., and Mankin, H. J.: Chronic tenosyno-
7. Jahss, M. H.: Spontaneous rupture ofthe tibialis pos- vitis of the posterior tibial tendon with new bone for-
mation. J. Bone Joint Surg. 60B:523, 1978.
terior tendon: Clinical findings, tenographic studies,
15. Sutherland, D. H.: An electromyographic study of
and a new technique of repair. Foot Ankle 3:158,
the plantar flexors of the ankle in normal walking on
1982.
the level. J. Bone Joint Surg. 48A:66, 1966.
8. Johnson, K. A.: Tibialis posterior tendon rupture. 16. Thomas, W. H.: Personal communication, 1986.
Clin. Orthop. 177:140, 1983. 17. Trevino, S., Gould, N., and Korson, R.: Surgical
9. Kettelkamp, D. B., and Alexander, H. H.: Spontane- treatment of stenosing tenosynovitis at the ankle.
ous rupture of the posterior tibial tendon. J. Bone Foot Ankle2:37, 1981.
Joint Surg. 5 lA:759, 1969. 18. Williams, R.: Chronic non-specific tendovaginitis of
10. Key, J. A,: Partial rupture ofthe tendon of the poste- tibialis posterior. J. Bone Joint Surg. 45B542, 1963.
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Treatment of Acute
Achilles Tendon Ruptures
A META-ANALYSIS OF RANDOMIZED, CONTROLLED TRIALS
BY RIAZ J.K. KHAN, FRCS(TR&ORTH), DAN FICK, MBBS, ANGUS KEOGH, MBBS,
JOHN CRAWFORD, FRCS(TR&ORTH), TIM BRAMMAR, FRCS(TR&ORTH), AND MARTYN PARKER, MD
Investigation performed at Perth Orthopaedic Institute, Department of Surgery and Pathology, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
Background: There is a lack of consensus regarding the best option for the treatment of acute Achilles tendon rup-
ture. Treatment can be broadly classified as operative (open or percutaneous) or nonoperative (casting or functional
bracing). Postoperative splinting can be performed with a rigid cast (proximal or distal to the knee) or a more mobile
functional brace. The aim of this meta-analysis was to identify and summarize the evidence from randomized, con-
trolled trials on the effectiveness of different interventions for the treatment of acute Achilles tendon ruptures.
Methods: We searched multiple databases (including EMBASE, CINAHL, and MEDLINE) as well as reference lists of
articles and contacted authors. Keywords included Achilles tendon, rupture, and tendon injuries. Three reviewers ex-
tracted data and independently assessed trial quality with use of a ten-item scale.
Results: Twelve trials involving 800 patients were included. There was a variable level of methodological rigor and re-
porting of outcomes. Open operative treatment was associated with a lower risk of rerupture compared with nonoper-
ative treatment (relative risk, 0.27; 95% confidence interval, 0.11 to 0.64). However, it was associated with a higher
risk of other complications, including infection, adhesions, and disturbed skin sensibility (relative risk, 10.60; 95%
confidence interval, 4.82 to 23.28). Percutaneous repair was associated with a lower complication rate compared
with open operative repair (relative risk, 2.84; 95% confidence interval, 1.06 to 7.62). Patients who had been man-
aged with a functional brace postoperatively (allowing for early mobilization) had a lower complication rate compared
with those who had been managed with a cast (relative risk, 1.88; 95% confidence interval, 1.27 to 2.76). Because
of the small number of patients involved, no definitive conclusions could be made regarding different nonoperative
treatment regimens.
Conclusions: Open operative treatment of acute Achilles tendon ruptures significantly reduces the risk of rerupture
compared with nonoperative treatment, but operative treatment is associated with a significantly higher risk of other
complications. Operative risks may be reduced by performing surgery percutaneously. Postoperative splinting with
use of a functional brace reduces the overall complication rate.
Level of Evidence: Therapeutic Level I. See Instructions to Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
T
he Achilles tendon, which is formed by the merging of topical corticosteroids5,6, fluoroquinolone antibiotics (e.g., cipro-
the tendons of the gastrocnemius and soleus, is the floxacin)7, exercise-induced hyperthermia8, and mechanical
thickest and strongest tendon in the human body. abnormalities of the foot9.
Acute ruptures occur most commonly in men in the third and Treatment of acute Achilles tendon ruptures can be
fourth decades of life who participate in sports intermittently, broadly classified as operative (open or percutaneous) or non-
and the left side is ruptured more commonly than is the right operative (cast immobilization or functional bracing). Gener-
side1. The mechanisms of injury include sudden forced plantar ally, open operative treatment has been used for athletes and
flexion of the foot, unexpected dorsiflexion of the foot, and vi- young, fit patients; percutaneous operative treatment has been
olent dorsiflexion of a plantar flexed foot2. The prevalence is used for those who do not wish to have an open repair (e.g.,
approximately 18 per 100,000 per year (in Finland) and is for cosmetic reasons); and nonoperative treatment has been
thought to be rising3. used for the elderly10-13.
It is generally accepted that ruptures occur in previously Previous reviews have examined the relative advantages
abnormal tendons2,4. A number of etiological theories have of operative and nonoperative treatment14-17. However, to our
been proposed, including the adverse influence of oral and knowledge, there has not been a systematic review of different
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methods of nonoperative treatment, operative treatment, and and manual search results. In MEDLINE (OVID-WEB), the fol-
postoperative splinting. The aim of the present meta-analysis lowing subject-specific search was combined with all three lev-
was to identify and summarize the evidence from random- els of the optimal trial search strategy18: Achilles Tendon,
ized, controlled trials on the effectiveness of all treatment in- (achill#s or tendoachill#s).tw., or/1-2, Rupture/, rupture$.tw.,
terventions for acute Achilles tendon ruptures. or/4-5, and/3,6, Tendon Injuries/, and/3,8, or/7,9. Articles in all
languages were considered for inclusion and were translated
Materials and Methods when necessary. We excluded retrospective studies, studies with
ll randomized, controlled trials comparing operative and insufficient reporting of primary outcomes, studies with inade-
A nonoperative methods for the treatment of acute Achilles
tendon ruptures were considered for inclusion. Quasi-random-
quate methods of randomization, and unique randomized,
controlled trials (where pooling of data was not possible, mak-
ized trials (for example, those involving allocation by alterna- ing them unsuitable for meta-analysis).
tion or the date of birth) and trials in which the treatment Participants included adults with acute ruptures of the
allocation was inadequately concealed were also considered. We Achilles tendon. Patients with delayed presentation (more than
searched the Cochrane Musculoskeletal Injuries Group special- three weeks after the injury) and rerupture were excluded. The
ized register, reference lists of articles, and proceedings of rele- types of interventions included operative repair (open and per-
vant conferences, and we contacted authors when additional cutaneous) and nonoperative treatment (cast immobilization
clarification was required. This register is compiled from multi- and functional bracing). The primary outcomes were complica-
ple databases and includes the results of regular searches of the tions of treatment and rerupture. Other outcomes, such as the
Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials in the Cochrane level of sporting activity, patient satisfaction, and the length of
Library, MEDLINE (which combines subject-specific terms hospital stay, were omitted because they lack quantity and uni-
with the optimal trial search strategy18), EMBASE, CINAHL, formity to support rigorous meta-analysis.
Fig. 1
System used for the scoring of methodology.
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Fig. 2
Flowchart depicting the method by which the twelve randomized, controlled studies were chosen.
Trials were independently assessed for inclusion by four semi-mobile)25-29. Two studies, involving ninety-four patients,
reviewers (R.J.K.K., D.F., A.K., and T.B.). Data on the outcomes compared percutaneous repair with open operative repair24,30.
listed above were extracted by three reviewers (R.J.K.K., D.F., Two studies, involving ninety patients, compared different
and T.B.). Differences were resolved by discussion. Ten aspects nonoperative treatment regimens31,32. The group of thirteen
of methodology were used to assign a maximum score of 12 to patients managed with open operative treatment as described
each study, similar to the scale described by Detsky et al.19 (Fig. by Schroeder et al.24 were analyzed in two sections of the
1). In addition, the risk of pre-allocation disclosure of assign- present review, which accounts for the discrepancy in the
ment was rated as A, B, or C according to the Cochrane Review- overall number of patients and studies involved.
ers’ Handbook20. The methodological quality scores of the included
For each study, relative risks and 95% confidence inter- studies are detailed in Table I. Low scores indicate poor
vals were calculated for dichotomous outcomes, and weighted methodology.
mean differences and 95% confidence intervals were calculated
for continuous outcomes. The results of individually random-
TABLE I Methodological Quality Scores
ized trials were pooled whenever possible with use of the fixed-
effects model of Mantel-Haenszel. Heterogeneity between Scores for Total Score
comparable studies was tested with the use of a standard chi- Study Ten Items (Maximum, 12)
square test. The random-effects model of DerSimonian and Cetti et al.21 1110110010 6
Laird was used when there was statistical or graphical evi- Cetti et al.25 1110010011 6
dence of heterogeneity. 29
Kangas et al. 3110100111 9
Fig. 3
Illustration indicating the prevalence of rerupture associated with open operative and nonoperative treatment. The values are given as the num-
ber of patients with a rerupture (n)/number of patients in the group (N), with a summation of the totals and the relative risk (RR) and 95% confi-
dence intervals (95% CI).
Fig. 4
Illustration indicating the prevalence of complications other than rerupture associated with open operative and nonoperative treatment. The val-
ues are given as the number of patients with a complication (n)/number of patients in the group (N), with a summation of the totals and the rel-
ative risk (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI).
Open Operative Treatment Compared in the nonoperatively treated group (relative risk, 0.27; 95%
with Nonoperative Treatment21-24 confidence interval, 0.11 to 0.64). The mean duration of follow-
The rate of rerupture is summarized in Figure 3. One study22 up used for the calculation of rerupture rates ranged from eight
revealed a significant difference between the operative group to thirty months.
and the nonoperative group with regard to the rate of rerup- Nistor23 and Moller et al.22 reported more adhesions, dis-
ture (one of fifty-nine compared with eleven of fifty-three; p = turbed sensibility, and deep or superficial wound infection in
0.0013). Of the three remaining studies, one showed no dif- the operative group. No statistical analysis was performed. Cetti
ference between operative and nonoperative treatment21, one et al.21 reported a significant increase in the rates of delayed
included no reruptures24, and one did not involve statistical wound-healing, adhesions, and disturbed sensibility in the op-
analysis23. Results gave a pooled rate of 3.5% (six of 173) in the erative group (p = 0.004). The pooled rate of reported compli-
operatively treated group and of 12.6% (twenty-three of 183) cations (other than rerupture) was 34.1% (fifty-nine of 173) in
Fig. 5
Illustration indicating the prevalence of wound infection associated with open operative and nonoperative treatment. The values are given as the
number of patients with a wound infection (n)/number of patients in the group (N), with a summation of the totals and the relative risk (RR) and
95% confidence intervals (95% CI).
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Fig. 6
Illustration indicating the prevalence of rerupture associated with open surgery and percutaneous surgery. The values are given as the number of
patients with a rerupture (n)/number of patients in the group (N), with a summation of the totals and the relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence
intervals (95% CI).
the operative group and 2.7% (five of 183) in the nonoperative 95% confidence interval, 0.19 to 21.00). The mean duration of
group (relative risk, 10.60; 95% confidence interval, 4.82 to follow-up used for the calculation of the rerupture rates
23.28). Similar analysis demonstrated an overall rate of wound ranged from six to eight months. These results are summa-
infection of 4.0% (seven of 173) in the operative group; there rized in Figure 6.
were no infections in the nonoperative group (relative risk, The pooled rate of reported complications (excluding
4.89; 95% confidence interval, 1.09 to 21.91). These results are rerupture) was 26.1% (twelve of forty-six) in the open group
summarized in Figures 4 and 5. and 8.3% (four of forty-eight) in the percutaneous group (rel-
ative risk, 2.84; 95% confidence interval, 1.06 to 7.62). Lim et
Open Compared with al. reported a significantly higher rate of wound infection in
Percutaneous Operative Repair24,30 the open group as compared with the percutaneous group (p =
Schroeder et al.24 reported no reruptures, whereas Lim et al.30 0.01)30. The pooled rate of infection was 19.6% (nine of forty-
found no significant difference between the groups with re- six) in the open group and 0% (zero of forty-eight) in the per-
gard to the rate of rerupture. The pooled rate of rerupture was cutaneous group (relative risk, 10.52; 95% confidence interval,
4.3% (two of forty-six) in the open group and 2.1% (one of 1.37 to 80.52). The results of these analyses are summarized in
forty-eight) in the percutaneous group (relative risk, 2.00; Figures 7 and 8.
Fig. 7
Illustration indicating the prevalence of complications other than rerupture associated with open surgery and percutaneous surgery. The values
are given as the number of patients with a complication (n)/number of patients in the group (N), with a summation of the totals and the relative
risk (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI).
Fig. 8
Illustration indicating the prevalence of wound infection associated with open surgery and percutaneous surgery. The values are given as the
number of patients with an infection (n)/number of patients in the group (N), with a summation of the totals and the relative risk (RR) and 95%
confidence intervals (95% CI).
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Fig. 9
Illustration indicating the prevalence of rerupture associated with postoperative splinting with casting alone and casting followed by functional
bracing. The values are given as the number of patients with a rerupture (n)/number of patients in the group (N), with a summation of the totals
and the relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI).
Postoperative Splinting: Cast Immobilization val, 0.59 to 21.76). The mean duration of follow-up used for the
Alone Compared with Cast Immobilization calculation of the rerupture rates was twelve months for both
Followed by Functional Bracing25-29 studies. The results are summarized in Figure 11.
Rerupture rates are summarized in Figure 9. No individual
study demonstrated a significant difference between the groups. Discussion
The pooled rate of rerupture was 5.0% (seven of 140) in the cast welve prospective randomized studies involving the treat-
immobilization group and 2.3% (three of 133) in the functional
bracing group (relative risk, 2.04; 95% confidence interval, 0.59
T ment of acute Achilles tendon rupture fulfilled the inclu-
sion criteria for this meta-analysis. Quality assessment scores
to 7.06). The mean duration of follow-up used for the calcula- were calculated for each study in order to assess the level of
tion of the rerupture rates ranged from five months to 6.7 years. methodological rigor. They were not used as a criterion for ex-
Complications were more common in the cast-only clusion or to weight the pooled data. However, the findings of
group; specifically, the cast-only group had higher rates of ad- studies with higher methodological quality should naturally
hesions (18.6% compared with 9.7%), disturbed sensibility be considered to be of greater importance. The scores indicate
(8.6% compared with 3.8%), keloid or hypertrophic scarring a variable level of methodological rigor, particularly with re-
(5% compared with 3%), and infection (3.5% compared with gard to the method of randomization and concealment of al-
3%). The pooled rate of reported complications (other than location. The quality of the primary study used for pooled
rerupture) was 35.7% (fifty of 140) in the cast immobilization analysis influences the results of a meta-analysis33. The inclu-
group and 19.5% (twenty-six of 133) in the functional bracing sion of poorly randomized trials can lead to over-reporting of
group (relative risk, 1.88; 95% confidence interval, 1.27 to treatment effect, and thus all recommendations should be
2.76). The results are summarized in Figure 10. critically appraised. Recommendations have been made on the
basis of analysis of pooled data extracted from what were be-
Nonoperative Treatment: Casting Immobilization lieved to be the most rigorously conducted studies.
Compared with Functional Bracing31,32 The rate of rerupture was consistently higher among
Pooled data revealed a rerupture rate of 2.4% (one of forty-one) nonoperatively treated patients as compared with operatively
in the functional bracing group and of 12.2% (six of forty-nine) treated patients. The most methodologically sound study22 pro-
in the casting group (relative risk, 3.59; 95% confidence inter- vided the most favorable rerupture rate with operative interven-
Fig. 10
Illustration indicating the prevalence of complications other than rerupture associated with postoperative splinting with casting alone and casting
followed by functional bracing. The values are given as the number of patients with a complication (n)/number of patients in the group (N), with a
summation of the totals and the relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI).
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Fig. 11
Illustration indicating the prevalence of rerupture associated with nonoperative treatment (casting alone and casting followed by functional brac-
ing). The values are given as the number of patients with a rerupture (n)/number of patients in the group (N), with a summation of the totals and
the relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI).
tion, suggesting that there is a legitimate advantage associated Using a technique of analysis not previously applied to rup-
with surgery. However, there was a consistent finding of in- ture of the Achilles tendon, Kocher et al.37 performed an ex-
creased rates of complications (other than rerupture) in the op- pected-value decision analysis of operative and nonoperative
eratively treated group, with all studies demonstrating similar management. Expected-value decision analysis involves allo-
rates. In summary, nonoperatively treated patients have a more cating utility scores to outcomes and allows quantitative anal-
than three times higher risk of rerupture but have a minimal ysis of decision-making. A decision tree was constructed, and
risk of other complications resulting from treatment. One-third prospective patients progressed through the various alter-
of operatively treated patients have a complication. natives. Article selection for the generation of outcome proba-
A meta-analysis by Bhandari et al.15 comparing open op- bilities followed the criteria of Lo et al.14. With use of this
erative treatment with nonoperative treatment of acute Achil- technique, operative treatment was found to be the optimal
les tendon ruptures did not provide a strong recommendation strategy. However, the authors stressed that the decision-
for surgery. The authors suggested that patients who are reluc- making process should be shared between doctor and patient.
tant to undergo an operation may choose nonoperative treat- In our analysis of studies comparing open and percuta-
ment. Their meta-analysis included six studies, three of which neous repair, we noted a tendency for a lower overall rate of
were omitted from the present meta-analysis because of inad- complications (particularly infection) in the percutaneously
equate reporting of results34, discontinuation of treatment in treated group. However, this finding is based on pooled data
the control group because of a high recurrence rate and no al- from a small number of patients, and there is some discrep-
location concealment (personal communication with the au- ancy between studies with regard to the rate of infection in the
thor)35, and inadequate randomization36. We included an extra open treatment group. In a previous review of prospective and
study24 that did fulfill our strict inclusion criteria. Neverthe- retrospective studies regarding operative and nonoperative
less, the results reported by Bhandari et al.15 are similar to treatment, Wong et al.17 reported a lower rate of wound com-
ours; specifically, the rerupture rate was 3.1% for operatively plications in patients undergoing percutaneous repair. How-
treated patients and 13% for nonoperatively treated patients ever, they also noted that patients in the percutaneous group
(p = 0.005) and the infection rate was higher among opera- had relatively high rates of complications (notably sural nerve
tively treated patients (4.7% compared with 0%; relative risk, injury), particularly when the procedure was combined with
4.6; p = 0.03). early active mobilization.
Lo et al.14 compiled two prospective trials and seventeen One of the most important aspects of the present review
case series for their comparison of operative and nonoperative is that pertaining to postoperative splintage. This subject has
treatment. The studies by Moller et al.22 and Schroeder et al.24 not been previously evaluated with use of meta-analysis. The
were not included in that analysis. Lo et al. found it difficult to functional bracing group had a significantly lower rate of
recommend one treatment over the other on the basis of the complications (p = 0.001), particularly with regard to adhe-
combined complication rates14. They suggested that patients sion formation. The early mobilization group also tended to
with poor healing potential should be managed nonopera- have a lower rerupture rate. Conclusions made on the basis of
tively and that active patients should be offered both operative the pooled data must be interpreted with caution because of
and nonoperative treatment. In other reviews, Lynch16 and the variety of regimens used.
Wong et al.17 included sixteen studies and 125 studies, respec- Limited conclusions can be drawn from the two studies
tively. Both groups of investigators included nonrandomized comparing nonoperative treatment in a cast and functional
trials in their analysis. The studies concurred in their recom- bracing because of the small numbers involved (ninety patients),
mendation for surgical intervention combined with early differences in regimens, and minimal reporting of outcomes31,32.
functional mobilization for the treatment of acute Achilles It is interesting to note, however, that the pooled rate of rerup-
tendon ruptures; nonoperative management with early func- ture in the functional bracing group (2.4%) was lower than that
tional mobilization may be an acceptable alternative for pa- for patients managed with operative treatment (3.5%). Indeed, it
tients who are reluctant to undergo a surgical procedure. was almost equivalent to that seen for patients managed with
2209
THE JOUR NAL OF BONE & JOINT SURGER Y · JBJS.ORG TRE A T M E N T O F A C U T E
VO L U M E 87-A · N U M B E R 10 · O C T O B E R 2005 A C H I L L E S TE N D O N R U P T U RE S
immobilization in a functional brace after open repair (2.3%). Riaz J.K. Khan, FRCS(Tr&Orth)
This apparent discrepancy may be explained by the small num- Department of Orthopaedics, Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital,
bers of patients managed nonoperatively. Colney Lane, Norwich, Norfolk, NR4 7UY, United Kingdom. E-mail ad-
dress: riazkhan@aol.com
In conclusion, open operative treatment of acute Achil-
les tendon ruptures significantly reduces the risk of rerupture Dan Fick, MBBS
compared with nonoperative treatment but has the drawback Angus Keogh, MBBS
of a significantly higher risk of other complications, including Department of Surgery and Pathology, University of Western Australia,
wound infection. Complications may be reduced by perform- Perth, WA 6009, Australia
ing surgery percutaneously. Postoperative splinting in a cast
followed by a functional brace rather than a cast alone reduces John Crawford, FRCS(Tr&Orth)
the overall complication rate. Tim Brammar, FRCS(Tr&Orth)
Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge, CB2 2QQ, United Kingdom
Additional rigorously conducted prospective random-
ized trials with larger sample sizes, full reporting of outcomes,
Martyn Parker, MD
and blinding of assessors are required. Increased transparency Peterborough District Hospital, Peterborough, PE3 6DA, United Kingdom
is needed if the same cohort of patients is reported on in
different studies, and avoidance of multiple publications is The authors did not receive grants or outside funding in support
strongly recommended. of their research or preparation of this manuscript. They did not
receive payments or other benefits or a commitment or agreement
Appendix to provide such benefits from a commercial entity. No commercial
A table presenting the characteristics of the included entity paid or directed, or agreed to pay or direct, any benefits to any
studies is available with the electronic versions of this ar- research fund, foundation, educational institution, or other charita-
ble or nonprofit organization with which the authors are affiliated
ticle, on our web site at jbjs.org (go to the article citation and or associated.
click on “Supplementary Material”) and on our quarterly CD-
ROM (call our subscription department, at 781-449-9780, to
order the CD-ROM). doi:10.2106/JBJS.D.03049
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TREATMENT OF MOBILE FLAT FOOT BY DISPLACEMENT OSTEOTOMY
OF THE CALCANEUS
FIG. 1
Radiograph of a foot in the standing position shows that the inferior
surface of the calcaneus is almost parallel with the ground, the talus is
less horizontal than normal and there is a subluxation at the tab-
navicular joint.
mobile flat foot or from flat foot in cerebral palsy. In many patients with the latter condition
he elongated the tendo calcaneus as a supplementary procedure at the same time.
Displacement osteotomy of the calcaneus has been practised in the Bristol clinical area
for some years, the operation having been first performed here by the late Mr Pridie.
The forefoot is pronated and slightly abducted at the mid-tarsal joints (Fig. 2).
The distorted anatomy produces the well known clinical deformity comprising: 1)
flattening at the longitudinal arch (Fig. 3); and 2) valgus deformity of the heel, in consequence
of which the tendo calcaneus acquires an evertor action,
which may tend to aggravate the condition (Fig. 7).
Either the planus or the valgus may predominate or
they may be equally represented.
Consequent upon the valgus deformity, the line of
weight-bearing transmitted through the talus passes
medial to the calcaneus (Figs. 4 and 5).
THE OPERATION
The aim of the operation is to displace the posterior
part of the calcaneus medially and thus to restore normal
weight-bearing (Fig. 6).
Technique-A tourniquet is used. The patient lies prone
with a sandbag under the lower shin to allow free
movement of the ankle. A lateral incision is made,
parallel to and a little behind and inferior to the peroneal
tendons, care being taken not to damage the sural nerve.
The upper end of the incision overlies the lateral margin
of the calcaneal tendon and its lower end reaches the
inferior margin of the calcaneus. The skin edges are
held apart by a self-retaining retractor and two small
bone spikes are inserted above
and below the calcaneus in
order to expose its superior, lateral and inferior surfaces.
The periosteum is incised and elevated in the line of
the skin incision to allow subperiosteal osteotomy with
a broad osteotome. The osteotomy is prised open and FIG. 2
the periosteum is divided along the medial aspect to Radiograph of a weight-bearing foot
showing that the mid-talar line passes
allow the displacement envisaged. It may be necessary medial to the forefoot and not through
to divide the long plantar ligament to obtain sufficient the shaft of the first metatarsal as it
should in the normal.
displacement.
When the osteotomy has been completed the posterior fragment of the calcaneus is
displaced medially until its medial border lies in a line with the sustentaculum tali. This usually
FIG. 3
Severe flattening of the longitudinal arch in a mobile flat foot.
entails a displacement between a third to a half of the width of the calcaneus. The displacement
is held by one or two Kirschner wires, inserted obliquely from the postero-inferior surface of
Before operation there is valgus of the heels (Fig. 7) but after operation on both heels the position
is neutral (Fig. 8).
V
-- FIG. 9 FIG. 10
The arch before operation (Fig. 9) and afterwards (Fig. 10).
FIG. II FIG. 12
A lateral radiograph before operation to show the talo-navicular subluxation and the flat arch (Fig. II). After
operation (Fig. 12) the talo-navicular subluxation is decreased and there is improvement of the longitudinal
arch: the mid-talar line approximates to the normal.
the bone, care being taken to ensure that the ends of the wires are buried beneath the skin.
Routine closure of the skin only is undertaken and a padded below-knee plaster is applied with
the ankle held in neutral position.
Post-operative care-Three weeks after operation the sutures and the wires are removed and
a new below-knee plaster is applied. The patient is allowed to bear weight in this for three
weeks. Radiographs are then taken, out of plaster, and if union has occurred the limb is left
free to mobilise. Occasionally physiotherapy is required.
FIG. 13 FIG. 14
Marked abduction of the forefoot before operation
(Fig. 13). After operation (Fig. 14) there is a
decrease of the abduction of the forefoot and the
mid-talar line approximates to the normal.
CLINICAL MATERIAL
In the Bristol clinical area there was a total of thirty-four feet operated on in nineteen
patients. All the patients were traced and examined. The follow-up time ranged from six
years to a few months. The age range was nine to fifty-five years but only two patients were
over seventeen at the time of operation; one was thirty-nine years and the other was fifty-five
years. The mean age was twelve years when these two are excluded. There were eleven females
and eight males. All had simple mobile flat foot with a marked valgus element and without
neurological abnormalities.
RESULTS
The results were judged on three criteria: the shape of the foot, fatigue and shoe wear.
Shape of the foot. Hee/-Seventeen patients (thirty feet) lost the valgus deformity of the heel
and with this the eversion element in the pull of the calcaneal tendon (Figs. 7 and 8). Arch-
The longitudinal arch showed some improvement in twenty-five feet (thirteen patients), most
of whom had some arch before operation (Figs. 9 and 10). Nine severely deformed flat feet
(six patients) failed to show any improvement. Forefoot abduction-This was found to run
parallel with the improvement of the longitudinal arch. Although the improvement was
difficult to demonstrate in the photographs, it was easily apparent on the radiographs.
Fatigue-This was recorded as definitely improved in seventeen patients. They were very
pleased to be able to indulge in normal activities such as walking, running, football and
dancing. In addition the spring in the gait was considerably improved.
Shoe wear-In seventeen patients there was no problem with footwear after the operation.
The parents of the young children were particularly appreciative.
Failures-None of these features improved in the two patients (four feet) with persisting valgus
deformity of the heel. These failures were probably due to a tight calcaneal tendon or to
inadequate displacement atthe osteotomy. In both cases there was inability to dorsiflex to
the right angle with the heel in neutral position and the knee straight.
Radiographic appearance-Standing radiographs before and after operation are essential for
a proper assessment of the effect of operation.
Improvement in the appearance of the foot was always associated with decrease in the
tabo-navicular subluxation. This improvement can be divided into components : the longitudinal
arch and the forefoot. Figures 1 1 to 14 illustrate the typical radiographic appearance before
and after operation. Only very slight improvement in the elevation of the anterior end of
the calcaneus was seen in the lateral radiographs.
CONCLUSION
1 . Thirty-four cases of calcaneal osteotomy for mobile flat foot in nineteen patients are
reviewed.
2. The function was markedly improved in seventeen of the nineteen patients.
3. The operation was successful in correcting the valgus deformity of the heel in thirty of
the thirty-four feet. it was less successful in improving the longitudinal arch, especially when
the flat foot deformity was severe.
My thanks are due to Mr A. L. Eyre-Brook and Mr D. M. Jones for their help and criticism in the preparation
of this paper. They and Mr H. K. Lucas, Mr M. P. McCormack and Mr H. E. D. Griffiths kindly gave me
access to their patients and records.
REFERENCES
DWYER, F. C. (1960): Osteotomy of the Calcaneum in the Treatment of Grossly Everted Feet with Special
Reference to Cerebral Palsy. In Huiti#{232}me Congr#{233}s Internationale de Chirurgie Orthop#{233}dique, New York,
Septembre
4-9 1960. Soci#{233}t#{233}
Internationale de Chirurgie Orthop#{233}dique et de Traumatologie, p. 892. Bruxelles:
Imprimerie des Sciences.
Low, J. P. (1923): Correction of Extreme Flatfoot. Value of Osteotomy
Displacement of Os Calcis and Inward
of Posterior Fragment (Gleich Operation). Journal of the 81, 1502.
American Medical Association,
SILVER, C. M., SIMON, S. D., SPINDELL, E., LITCHMAN, H. M., and SCALA, M. (1967): Calcaneal Osteotomy for
Valgus and Varus Deformities of the Foot in Cerebral Palsy. Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, 49-A, 232.
I
ndividuals with diabetes have an tion and prolonged antibiotic therapy
tive cohort study of foot complications in
⬃25% lifetime risk of developing a foot (6,7).
diabetic patients and confirmed the pres-
complication (1), the most common of While diagnosing osteomyelitis is im- ence of osteomyelitis by bone culture.
which is skin ulceration. Over half of portant, it is unfortunately also difficult.
these foot wounds may eventually be- Clinical and laboratory signs and symp-
come infected, which greatly increases the toms are generally unhelpful (6,7). Bone RESEARCH DESIGN AND
risk of lower-extremity amputation (2–5). infection may not show up on plain radio- METHODS — As part of a diabetes
While most diabetic foot infections in- graphs in the first 2 weeks, and any X-ray disease management program to study
volve only the soft tissue, bone involve- abnormalities detected may be caused by and prevent lower-extremity complica-
ment occurs in 20 – 66% of cases (6 – 8). the neuropathic bone disorders that fre- tions and in cooperation with two large
Furthermore, foot infections complicated quently occur in diabetes. More accurate primary care physician groups in south
by osteomyelitis generally have a worse imaging studies, such as radionuclide Texas, we prospectively enrolled 1,666
outcome and often require surgical resec- scans or magnetic resonance imaging, are patients in an observational trial over an
8-month period. As part of a systematic
● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
screening program, we documented each
patient’s medical history for all potential
From the 1Department of Surgery, Scott and White Hospital, Texas A&M University Health Science Center
College of Medicine, Temple, Texas; 2Scholl’s Center for Lower Extremity Ambulatory Research (CLEAR) at
foot complications and screened them for
Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, Illinois; the 3Department of Infectious established risk factors (23). Patients were
Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands; and the 4VA Puget Sound Heath Care then seen at regular intervals (i.e., every
System and the Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington. 2–12 months, depending on their foot
Address correspondence and reprint requests to Lawrence A. Lavery, Department of Surgery, Scott and risk classification) for routine foot care
White Hospital, 703 Highland Spring Lane, Georgetown, TX 78628. E-mail: llavery@swmail.sw.org.
Received for publication 26 July 2006 and accepted in revised form 19 October 2006. and repeat evaluations (24). In addition,
Abbreviations: PTB, probe to bone. all patients were instructed to immedi-
A table elsewhere in this issue shows conventional and Système International (SI) units and conversion ately return to the foot clinic if they devel-
factors for many substances. oped any foot complication. We followed
DOI: 10.2337/dc06-1572
© 2007 by the American Diabetes Association.
the patients for an average of 27.2 months
The costs of publication of this article were defrayed in part by the payment of page charges. This article must therefore be hereby (range 4 –32) and tracked all pertinent
marked “advertisement” in accordance with 18 U.S.C. Section 1734 solely to indicate this fact. clinical outcomes, verifying all hospital
Osteomyelitis
Yes (n ⫽ 30) No (n ⫽ 217) P value Relative risk 95% CI
Age ⬎70 years 51.3 52.6 0.85 0.99 0.97–1.01
Male 58.6 52.1 0.51 1.26 0.63–2.53
Diabetes duration (years) 17.0 ⫾ 10.1 13.0 ⫾ 9.6 0.03 1.03 1.00–1.06
BMI (kg/m2) 28.7 ⫾ 6.2 29.6 ⫾ 7.3 0.53 0.98 0.93–1.04
Peripheral neuropathy 83.3 72.4 0.2 1.79 0.71–4.47
Peripheral vascular disease 43.3 37.8 0.6 1.22 0.62–2.40
Wound depth
Full thickness skin 10.0 73.7 1.00
To fascia or tendon 3.3 17.1 0.75 1.43 0.15–13.37
To bone/joint 86.7 9.2 ⬍0.001 30.71 9.73–96.93
Ulcer duration (days) 267 ⫾ 284 169 ⫾ 268 0.06 1.001 1.000–1.001
Data are percent or means ⫾ SD.
admissions and lower-extremity amputa- tage, or rongeur at the time of debride- mented in 30 patients, representing 20%
tions with claims data. The disease man- ment or through sites that were of the 150 infected patients and 12% of all
agement program’s foot clinic was the noncontiguous with the wound. Speci- 247 with a foot wound.
primary source for foot care, as well as for mens were transferred to a sterile con- The PTB test was performed in all of
referral and consultation for diabetes- tainer or transport tube with culture the 247 patients with a wound; it was pos-
related lower-extremity complications. media and quickly transported to the clin- itive in 46 (18.6%), 26 (56.5%) of whom
This project was approved by our institu- ical microbiology laboratory. We used the had osteomyelitis. The test was positive in
tional review board. results of bone culture to determine the 26 (86.7%) of the 30 with culture-proven
We defined a foot wound as a full presence or absence of bone infection. A bone infection, as well as in 20 (9.2%) of
thickness lesion involving any portion of positive culture was defined as growth of the 217 without osteomyelitis. Among the
the foot or ankle (25–27). We excluded any organism from the bone specimen. 150 patients with a clinically infected
wounds characterized as blisters, minor Although our data forms did not specifi- wound, the test was positive in 46
lacerations, or abrasions (n ⫽ 16). We de- cally record information on antimicrobial (30.7%). There were no complications at-
fined a wound infection clinically, by cri- treatment in all cases, most patients pre- tributable to the PTB test.
teria consistent with the International sented with an acute wound and were not The values for sensitivity, specificity,
Working Group guidelines (28), i.e., the receiving any antibiotic therapy. We fol- and positive and negative predictive val-
presence of wound purulence or at least lowed all patients with a foot wound until ues of the PTB test for all patients with a
two signs or symptoms of local inflamma- it either healed or required surgical foot wound and for the patients with a
tion or systemic symptoms of infection intervention. clinically infected foot wound are shown
with no other apparent cause. We evalu- To assess the value of PTB in diagnos- in Table 2. The sensitivity was 87% for
ated all wounds to determine the extent of ing osteomyelitis, we calculated the sen- both groups (i.e., all wounds and infected
soft tissue involved and for any evidence sitivity, specificity, and positive and wounds), while the specificity was 91%
of bone infection (osteomyelitis) negative predictive values of the test using for all wounds and 87% for infected
(6,29,30). As part of this evaluation, each the results of the bone culture as the cri- wounds. The negative predictive value
patient underwent the PTB test, con- terion standard. We calculated statistical was extremely high (96 –98%), but the
ducted by one of two experienced podia- values using SPSS version 11.0 for Mac- positive predictive value was only 57–
trists using a sterile probe to gently intosh (SPSS, Chicago, IL) and Diagnostic 62%. The positive likelihood ratio was 9.4
explore the wound. We defined a positive and Agreement Statistics DAG Software for all wounds and 6.5 for infected
test as palpating a hard or gritty substance (Mental Health Research Institute, wounds, similar to the values for the neg-
that was presumed to be bone or joint Parkville, Victoria, Australia). ative likelihood ratios for both popula-
space. Each patient with a clinically in- tions.
fected wound also underwent a series of RESULTS — The demographic and
plain radiographs and had additional im- clinical characteristics of the patients we CONCLUSIONS — Osteomyelitis of
aging studies as indicated. If, based on the enrolled are shown in Table 1. Over a the foot in individuals with diabetes is of-
clinical examination (other than the PTB mean of 27.2 months of follow-up, 247 ten difficult to diagnose. Bone biopsy is
test) and imaging studies, we thought (14.8%) of the 1,666 enrolled patients de- considered the criterion standard for the
bone infection was possible, the patient veloped a foot wound and 151 (9.1%) de- diagnosis. While histopathological defini-
underwent bone biopsy. Using aseptic veloped 199 foot infections. One patient tions may be useful for diagnosing osteo-
techniques, we obtained specimens for with cellulitis did not have a wound, pre- myelitis, most prefer microbiological
culture, either in the clinic or operating cluding conducting the PTB test. All of the methods (6,31). Many clinicians (and pa-
room, following standard surgical skin patients with osteomyelitis presented tients) are hesitant to undertake this inva-
preparation with betadiene. We obtained with signs and symptoms of a soft tissue sive and rather expensive procedure.
bone specimens by needle aspirate, curet- foot infection. Bone infection was docu- Thus, clinicians have sought clinical evi-
Table 2—Statistical analysis of the PTB test for diagnosing osteomyelitis in all foot wounds biopsy was performed by Grayson et al.,
and in clinically infected wounds they histologically defined osteomyelitis
(in 46 of 50 cases by the presence of in-
All wounds value Infected wounds value flammatory cells, fibrosis, necrosis, and
Statistic (n ⫽ 247) (n ⫽ 150) reactive bone), while we defined it micro-
biologically (by a positive culture of a
Sensitivity 0.87 (0.71–0.96) 0.87 (0.69–0.96) bone specimen). Because most of our pa-
Specificity 0.91 (0.89–0.92) 0.87 (0.79–0.92) tients presented with an acute foot
Positive predictive value 0.57 (0.46–0.62) 0.62 (0.46–0.76) wound, we believe that few were receiv-
Negative predictive value 0.98 (0.96–0.99) 0.92 (0.91–0.99) ing antibiotic therapy, enhancing the
Positive likelihood ratio 9.40 (6.05–14.61) 6.50 (4.03–10.48) value of a microbiologically based diagno-
Negative likelihood ratio 6.81 (2.73–16.97) 6.50 (2.60–16.23) sis. Thus, it is possible that they missed
Data in parentheses are 95% CI. cases of osteomyelitis that did not have
histological changes (false negatives) or
that we included cases that represented
dence to help them determine what pa- diological imaging (in the rest). They microbial contamination (false positives)
tients were likely to have diabetic foot calculated that the PTB test had a sensitiv- of the bone specimen. Our patient popu-
osteomyelitis. Unfortunately, local in- ity of 66%, specificity of 85%, positive lation is probably more representative of
flammatory signs and symptoms may be predicative value of 89%, and a negative those in a typical clinical practice where
blunted because of diabetes-related vas- predictive value of 56% (22). Our study the PTB would be most commonly used.
cular insufficiency, peripheral neuropa- evaluated more than three times as many Our study had several potential limita-
thy (32), and leukocyte dysfunction (33). patients with a foot wound and more than tions. First, we did not perform histological
While clinical findings (34) or elevations twice as many with a foot infection. Un- examination of the bone specimens to
in hematological inflammatory markers like in the study by Grayson et al., our compare against the culture results.
(e.g., white blood cell count, erythrocyte patients were identified (and largely Rather, we elected to use a positive bone
sedimentation rate [35], or C-reactive treated) in an outpatient setting. Further- culture as our criterion standard. We did
protein [36]) may be helpful (37,38), more, in all of our patients, osteomyelitis so because it is often difficult to obtain an
these are not sufficiently accurate for di- was defined exclusively by a positive bone
adequate core of bone from the small
agnosis (3,4,35,39 – 45). Furthermore, culture. We found very little difference in
bones of the feet (especially toes) to allow
evaluating published reports of the sensi- positive and negative predictive values
histopathological analysis and because
tivity, specificity, and predictive value of when we compared PTB results in all pa-
the criteria for histologically diagnosing
various diagnostic methods is compli- tients who had a wound with the subset
osteomyelitis are not well-defined. Fur-
cated by inconsistent operational defini- who had clinical signs of infection. In our
thermore, because we believe that most of
tions and outcome measures, as well as patient population, the PTB had high sen-
the variability in the prevalence of osteo- sitivity and specificity, but because of the our patients were not receiving antibiotic
myelitis in the populations studied (46). lower prevalence of osteomyelitis, our therapy at the time the bone biopsy was
It is not surprising, therefore, that the positive predictive value was only 57– taken and they underwent careful wound
clinical assessment for diagnosing osteo- 62%. Thus, a positive PTB only slightly cleansing and debridement before the
myelitis has a reported sensitivity ranging increased the probability of osteomyelitis procedure, we thought that the risk of
from 0 to 54% (9,20,47,48). Various im- over tossing a coin. The negative predic- false negative or positive results was low.
aging studies, especially magnetic reso- tive value, however, was considerably Additionally, for samples collected in this
nance, certainly enhance the accuracy of higher, at 96 –98%. A negative test, there- study and in our greater clinical experi-
diagnosing osteomyelitis, but these are fore, argues strongly against the diagnosis ence, readings of histological specimens
expensive, time-consuming, and not uni- of osteomyelitis. These results confirm often refer to signs of inflammation or in-
versally available (49,50). Thus, clini- the importance of disease prevalence in flammatory cells but do not specifically
cians have sought a simple inexpensive assessing any test for making the diagno- describe osteomyelitis. Second, we did
bedside test to help determine which pa- sis of diabetic foot osteomyelitis (46). not conduct a bone biopsy on patients
tients should undergo more extensive At least three factors may have con- with a foot wound in whom there was no
evaluations. tributed to the apparent disparity in out- suspicion of bone involvement. While
Since its introduction, the PTB tech- comes between our study and that of work in this area suggests that bone bi-
nique has been widely used for evaluating Grayson et al. (51). First, the lower posi- opsy is both safe (52,53) and helpful (49),
diabetic patients with a foot wound. Pal- tive predictive value in our population we believed it would be unethical to do
pation of bone with a metal probe is a may be attributable to their lower preva- this procedure on patients with no suspi-
simple bedside procedure predicated on lence of osteomyelitis (20 vs. 66%) (46). cion of osteomyelitis. As previously
the concept that if the probe can reach the Second, all of the patients in the Grayson stated, none of the patients who did not
bone, so can infectious bacteria. In the et al. study required hospitalization for undergo a biopsy were later found to have
report by Grayson et al. (51) on 76 hos- severe foot infections, which required pa- developed osteomyelitis. Because the av-
pitalized patients enrolled in a diabetic rental antibiotics. Our study population erage follow-up for patients in this popu-
foot infection antibiotic trial, 66% were was derived from patients who mostly lation was 27 months and our group was
found to have osteomyelitis, defined by presented in a clinic setting, and only the sole source of diabetic foot referral, it
histology on bone biopsy (in most sub- 61% of patients with a foot wound had was unlikely that we missed any cases of
jects) and by surgical exploration or ra- evidence of infection. Third, when bone bone infection. Third, the PTB was con-
ducted by one of two podiatrists, but we 14. Unal SN, Birinci H, Baktiroglu S, Cantez
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www.jbjs.org
Changes in Tibiotalar Area of Contact
Caused by Lateral Talar Shift
BY PAUL L. RAMSEY, M.D.*, AND WILLIAM HAMILTON, M.D.t, WILMINGTON, DELAWARE
ABSTRACT: A carbon black transference technique ferred to graph paper to measure the area of contact by
was used to determine the contact area in twenty-three counting the enclosed squares.
dissected tibiotalar articulations, with the talus in Carbon black does not leave a permanent stain on the
neutral position and displaced one, two, four, and six cartilage and therefore permits repeated examinations of
millimeters laterally. The greatest reduction in contact the same specimen. The contact area between the talus and
area occurred during the initiah one millimeter of hat- the tibia was determined with the talus first in normal rela-
eral displacement, the average reduction being 42 per tionship to the tibia and then with it laterally displaced
cent. With further lateral displacement of the talus the one, two, four, and six millimeters (Fig. 1).
contact area was progressivehy reduced but the rate of To maintain the exact displacement during testing,
change for each increment of shift was less marked. metallic spacers milled to the appropriate width were
placed between the talus and medial malleolus, with the
Fractures or ligament injuries about the ankle may re- leading edge of the spacer flush with the anterior border of
sult in widening of the medial part of the mortise as seen the articular cartilage. Each spacer was fixed in place by
on roentgenograms 2 Long-term follow-up studies after means of a threaded central extension that was passed
ankle injuries have shown that significant residual talar through a drill hole in the medial malleolus and held se-
displacement predisposes to an unsatisfactory result 1,3.6 curely with a nut tightened against the medial aspect of the
In an effort to explain such unsatisfactory results, we pos- malleolus. In this way, the position of the spacer and its
tulated that the area of contact between the articular sur- apposition to the articular surface of the medial malleolus
faces of the tibiotalar joint is altered and may contribute to was maintained during each test.
the poor result. We therefore attempted to measure the With respect to position, the talus was adjusted so
changes occurring in this contact area as the talus is dis- that it was as near neutral as could be determined by in-
placed laterally in the ankle mortise. spection based on the tibiotalar relationship while the foot
was in neutral position prior to removal of the soft tissues.
Materials and Methods
The design of the compression device ensured that when
Twenty-three lower extremities amputated for periph- each specimen was retested it was in the same degree of
eral vascular disease were studied. Any specimen with in- plantar flexion-dorsiflexion and of medial-lateral tilt for
fection or gangrene involving the articuhar cartilage of the each increment of lateral displacement.
ankle joint was not used.
Results
The fibuha was removed and all soft tissues about the
ankle were excised, including the ligaments and capsule. The contact areas (range, mean, and standard devia-
The tibia was transected five centimeters above the ankle tion) are listed in Table I. The considerable variation in the
joint. The anatomical unit to be tested thus included the areas of contact can be explained by the normal biological
distal end ofthe tibia and the talus as separate components, variations in the different specimens. This variation ren-
with both completely free of all soft-tissue attachments. ders the measured contact areas of little value when com-
To determine the area
of contact, the distal tibial ar- paring the changes in area in different specimens. There-
ticular surface was coated with powdered carbon black and fore, the measured contact areas with each increment of
rearticulated with the talus, which was placed in neutral lateral displacement were expressed as percentages of the
position with respect to plantar flexion, dorsiflexion, and area obtained with no displacement.
medial and lateral tilt. A compression clamp mounted on a The mean decrease in contact area was 42 per cent
bathroom scale was used to deliver an axially-directed load with one millimeter of lateral talar shift, 14 per cent with
of seventy kilograms on the joint for thirty seconds. When between one and two millimeters, 9 per cent with between
the load was released, a deposit of carbon black was pres- two and four millimeters, and only 3 per cent with between
ent on the
talus, marking the area of contact with the distal four and six millimeters.
end of the tibia. The outline of the deposit was traced on With no talar displacement, the area of tibiotalar con-
wax wrapping paper placed on the talus, and then trans- tact extended across the breadth of the talus and was wide
S Box 269, Wilmington. Delaware 19899.
on the lateral side and narrow on the medial side. Once the
± Thomas Jefferson Hospital. Philadelphia. Pennsylvania 19104. talus was displaced laterally, contact was only apparent on
FIG. I
A left
talus viewed from above. showing the contact areas with zero. one, two, four, and six millimeters of talar displaccnient (from left to right).
Note the rapid decrease in contact area and the change in its pattern. With no displacement the major area of contact is on the lateral side but with
lateral displacement the major contact is on the medial side.
the medial and lateral prominences of the talus, there being TABLE I
TIBI0TAI.AR CONTACT ARIA
no demonstrable contact in the mid-portion. Also, the pat-
tern of contact was reversed so that the medial contact area Lateral Talar
was broad and the lateral contact area was narrow (Fig. 1). Displacement Range Mean Standard Deviation
(,z,ii) ((.,p2) (ei2) (,p2)
The findings in this study expand those in a previous I 1.0-5.0 2.50 0.95
investigation , in which the talus was tilted laterally 2 and 2 1.1-3.3 I .89 0.50
References
1. BR0DIF. I. A. 0. D.. and DENIJASI, R. A.: The Treatment of Unstable Ankle Fractures. J. Bone and Joint Surg.. 56-B: 256-262. May 1974.
2. DENHAM, R. A.: Internal Fixation for Unstable Ankle Fractures. J. Bone and Joint Surg., 46-B: 206-211. May 1964.
3. Jo, GREGORY: PATZAKIS. M. J.: and HARVEY, J. P., JR.: Precise Evaluation ofthe Reduction ofSevere Ankle Fractures. Technique and Correla-
tion with End Results. J. Bone and Joint Surg. . 56-A: 979-993. July 1974.
4. MullER. M. E.: ALLGOWER, M.; and WII.I.ENEGGER, H.: Technique of Internal Fixation of Fractures, p. 1 14. New York, Springer. 1965.
5. WII.l.ENE;ER, H.: Die Behandlung der Luxationsfrakturen des obenen Sprunggelenks nach biomechanischen Gesichtspunkten. Helvetica chir.
acta, 28: 225-239, 1961.
6. WilSoN, F. C.. and SKII.BREw, L. A.: Long-Term Results in the Treatment of Displaced Bimalleolar Fractures. J. Bone and Joint Surg.. 48-A:
1065-1078, Sept. 1966.
imal location that was involved. Procedures were also each affected patient, with a range from one to th{ee. One
scored as being bony or soft-tissue only, with combined of the seven had thrombus in the contralateral limb but not
procedures being placed in the bony category. the operated side. None of the seven patients had any
If a DVT was detected and restricted to the caif, a clinical symptoms associated with the DVT (pain, palpable
repeat ultrasound was performed in one week. Where cords, swelling or Homans' sign).
no progression was found, no treatment was institut- Wald Chi-square testing was used to analyze the vari-
ed."7Progressionof the clot, or any clots found proximaf ables for association with DVT formation, and also with
to the calf, would be treated with heparinization followed occlusive DVT (ODVT) formation (Table 2). Factors found
by ~ournadin.~' No patients in this study had progres- to be associated with DVT formation were: hindfoot sur-
sion of thrombus or DVT proximal to the calf, and there- gery fp=0.02), hindfoot surgery combined with immobi-
fore none required treatment. lization (p=0.02), and increased tourniquet time fp=0.03).
All results were analyzed with statistical software Age was also associated, both as a continuous variable
@AS {2QOl] SASe Proprietary Software Release 8.2 (p=0,051f and a variable categorized by decade @=0.04).
[TS2MO] SAS fnstitute Inc. Cary, NC, USA). Wald Chi- Testing was also done to analyze the incidence of
square testing was used to analyze the association of a occlusive DVT as a separate entity, scoring nonocclu-
number of variables (Table I ) with the formation of DVT, sive DVT as normal. Hindfoot surgery was again asso-
as well as occfusive DVT as a subset of DVT. Variables ciated (p=0.04) as was combined hindfoot surgery with
were tested as Binomial Factors, Continuous Variables immobilization (p=0.03). Unlike the risks for all DVT, nei-
and Categorized Variables. ther age nor tourniquet time were associated with the
Characteristics of risk factors analyzed are outlined in subgroup of occiusive DVT formation.
Table 1. Body Mass lndex was calculated as Body Mass lndex was not associated with overall
BMI=Weight(Kg)/Height2(meters)and stratified into the DVT formation, but was associated with occlusive DVT
following categories: 48.5, 18.5 to 25, 25 to 30, 30 to (ODVT). BMI was associated strongly with ODVT in all
40 and 40+, according to National Institute of Health three modes tested: BMb30 (p=0.04), as a continuous
obesity guidelines10 Age was categorized by decade variable (p=O.Ol) and when grouped in the N!H cate-
(10-19, 20-29 etc.), The variables of hindfoot proce- gories of obesity (p=0.02).
dures and immobilization appeared linked and were
tested as four groups:
1. Nonhindfoot surgery without immobilization,
2. Hindfoot surgery without immobilization, Deep vein thrombosis can be a significant cause of
3. Nonhindfoot surgery with immobilization, and morbidity and mortality following orthopaedic surgery.
4. Hindfoot surgery with immobilization. Studies of total hip and knee replacements have found
high incidences of DVT in untreated populations, but the
RESULTS incidence foilowing foot and ankle surgery is mostly
unknown'4and is largely regarded as a low The
The study population consisted of 201 patients, 83 practical questions most surgeons would wish to know
male and 118 female, with an average age of 45.69 are what is the risk of thromboembolism, and is routine
years (range, 13 to 83). Forefoot surgery accounted for prophylaxis indicated.
46.6% of the procedures, midfoot 8.9%, hindfoot 18.32% Mizel et al.'"ave undertaken the most extensive
and ankle 26.18%. Bony procedures accounted for 550A study to date regarding DVT following foot and ankle
of the total procedures, 80% done under general anes- surgery, evaluating over 2,700 patients. In this study
thetic, and 33.5% had postoperative immobilization. they found an incidence of DVT of 0.22% and an inci-
In the present study population, the rate of DVT was dence of nonfatal pulmonary emboli of 0.15O%. While
found to be low. Of 201 patients, 53 (6.5%) had positive this multicenter study was very significant in terms of
ultrasound. In six f3.074) of these patients the findings the large number of patients, it did suffer two flaws.
were only in the superficial veins and muscular plexus- First, radiological studies to detect DVT were used only
es. These were not considered clinically significant and on patients who had clinical symptoms of thrombi or
were not included in the final analysis. embolism. Because clinical detection alone is inaccu-
Seven of 201 (3.5% total population) had true DVT (per- rate and many thrombi may be a s y m p t o m a t i ~ , ' ~ " " ~ ~ ' ~ ~ ~ ~
oneal, anterior tibial and posterior tibial venous thrombi). the true incidence of thrombi is likely to have been
Five of these seven (2.5% of total population) patients had under-reported. The incidence of clinically significant
thrombi that were occlusive, eliminating ail blood flow in events, however, would be expected to be accurate.
the vein. DVTs involved an average of 1.57 of the six veins Second, the use of thromboembolism prophylaxis was
(two each peroneal, anterior tibia1 and posterior tibialf in "determined by the treating surgeon." This means that
Foot & Ankle InternationalNol. 23, No. 5/May 2002 DEEP VEIN THROMBOSIS AFTER SURGERY 413
Table 1: Variables analyzed for association with the occurrence of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Occlusive
Deep Vein Thrombosis (ODVT)
Binomial Factors Continuous Categorized
Risk Factor (yeslno) Variables Variables
Gender (Male) X
Smoker X
Oral contraceptive pill X
Hormone replacement therapy X
History of cancer X
Family history of DVT X
Blood disorderlclotting problems X
Procedure on Bone (v. soft tissue alone) X
General anesthetic X
Postoperative immobilization X
Location-forefoot X
Location-midfoot X
Location-hindfoot X
Location-ankle X
Body Mass Index (BMI) x (>=30, obese) x (BMI units) x (NIH categoriesa)
Age x (in years) x (by decadeb)
Tourniquet time (min) X
"ational Institute of Health BMI categories: 4 8 . 5 , 18.5 to <25, 2 5 to <30, 3 0 t o <40 a n d 40+
"0-19 years, 20-29 years, 30-39 years etc.
the incidence of DVT in untreated patients undergoing ciated with occlusive DVT following foot and ankle sur-
foot and ankle surgery is still unknown, as the two gery were hindfoot surgery with or without immobiliza-
groups were not separated. tion and increasing BMI. Age was not found to be asso-
All patients in this study underwent postoperative ciated with occlusive DVT, and BMI was not found to be
ultrasound to detect thrombosis, and no patient associated with overall DVT formation, only occlusive
received any perioperative DVT prophylaxis. The DVT. A similar study with larger numbers of patients in
patients only had calf ultrasound performed. While this the various groups would give more power to the study.
may have missed proximal clots, the authors feel that This study shows that:
the majority of proximal clots propagate from the 1. DVT following foot and ankle surgery is rare, but
The authors believe that checking the calf only would more prevalent than previously suggested,
give a higher incidence of thrombosis than in studies 2. They are mostly asymptomatic, and
that check only the thigh. Studies have shown that ultra- 3. They do not progress proximally.
sound may be less sensitive (48 to 57%) in the calf Based on these findings and review of the literature,
compared with the thigh (62%) as well as in asympto- the authors agree with Mizel et aI.l4 that routine DVT
matic patient^'^.'^ of which both conditions apply to this prophylaxis is not indicated in patients undergoing foot
study. Thigh veins were not tested as part of the senior and ankle surgery. Even in higher risk patients (hindfoot
author's protocol, partly as a cost-saving measure. surgery, obese, elderly or increased tourniquet time) the
This study was a prospective evaluation of all patients lack of clot progression or symptoms would lead us to
undergoing surgery of the foot and ankle without any believe that prophylaxis is not indicated routinely in
DVT prophylaxis. A low incidence (3.5%) was found in these patients.
this study of thrombus formation in the deep venous Based on the results of this study, the senior author
system of the calf, none of which showed any progres- no longer performs routine ultrasound screening of
sion on follow-up ultrasound. No patients were found to postoperative patients.
have clinical symptoms consistent with thrombosis or
pulmonary embolism at the postoperative visit. REFERENCES
In this study, the risk factors found to be associated
1. Agnelli, G; et a!: Clinical Outcome of Orthopaedic Patients with Negative Lower
with DVT formation following foot and ankle surgery Limb Venography at Discharge. Thrombosis and Haemostasis, 74(4):1042-4, 1995.
were: hindfoot surgery with or without immobilization, 2. Agnelli, G: PostdischargeProphylaxis for Venous Thromboernbolism Among High-
increasing age and tourniquet time. Factors found asso- risk Surgery Patients. Vascular Medicine 351-56, 1998.
4 14 SOLS AND SAXBY foot & Ankle Infernztional/Voi.23, No. 5/May 2002
--- - - - -
Table 2: Results of logistic regression of incidence of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) or DVT (ODVT) on
risk factors
DVT O DVT
Wald Chi-square Wald Chi-square
X
i'" )'(: '"
Risk Factor -- (Probability)
-- --. rubabi
it .I ityf
Gender 0.47 fn.s.1 0 (ns.)
Smoker 0 (n.s.) 0 fns.)
Oral contraceptive pill 0 (n.s.) 0 (n.s.)
Hormone replacement therapy 1. l 0 (n.s.) 0.13 (n.s.)
History of cancer 0.31 (ns.) 0.81 (ns.)
Family history of DVT 0 fn.s.) 0 (8s.)
Blood disorder/ clotting problems 0 Ins.) 0 fns.)
Procedure on Bone fv. so3 tissue alone) 2.06 fn.s.) 1.02 (ns.)
General anesthetic 0.12 (n.s.j 0 (ns.)
Postoperative immobilization 3.76 (P=0.053) 3.50 (P=0.06)
Location- forefoot 2.52 (n.s.) 0 (ns.)
Location- midfoot 0.25 (n.s.1 0.71 (n.s.)
Location- hindfoot 5.45* (P=0.02) 4.29* (P=0.04)
Location- ankle 0.42 (n.s.1 0.06 fn.s.1
Body Mass Index fBMl)>30 2.23 ( n s f 4.07* (P=0.04)
Body Mass Index (continuous] 3.37 fP=0.07) 6.43* (P=O.Ol)
Body Mass Indexb(categorized by National Health Instjfute standards) 2.53 (n.s.) 5.68* (P=0.02)
Age in years (continuous) 3.80* (P=0.051) 0.99 (ns.)
Age (categorized by decade)" 4.39* (P=0,04) 1.51 (ns.)
HindfooVlmmobilizationd(categorize4 5.64* (P=0.02) 4.88' (P=0.03)
Tourniquet time in minutes (cantinrraus) 4.80* (P=0.03) 3.23
"All Chi-squared values h a v e o n e degree of freedom
bl=underweight, ...6=profoundly o b e s e
...
"Decade 0=1-9. 1 = 10-19.. 8=80-89.
i=
a~indfootllmmo'bilization ~ e i t h e rHindfoot nor Immobilization 1= Either Hindfoot o r Immobilization 2 = Both Hindfoot a n d Immobilization
"Signif~cantat 5% level
ns,: Non-significant
- - ..
3. Ascani, 8; e i at: Distiibution and Occiusiveness of Thrombi in Patients with Ubmsound a Sensitive Screening Methd in Diagnosing Deep Vein Thrombosis
Sunteillance Detected Deep Vein Thrombosis after Hip Surgery. Thrombosis and after Hlp Surgery? Thrombosis and Haemostasis: 75(2):242-5. 1396.
Haemostasis 75(2):239-41, 1996. 13. Mitcheti, LJ: Thron>boembolicComplications of Cast Immobtlrzation lor injuries of
4. Bates, SM; Hirsh, J: Treatment of Venous Throboernboiism. Thrombosis and the lower extremities. Clin. Grthop., 108:191-5,1975.
Haemostasis 82(2):870-7, 1999. 14. Mizel, MS; Temple, HT; Michelson, JD; Alvarez, RG; Clanton, TO; Frey, CC;
5. Davidson, HC; Mauu, D; Gage, BF; Jeffrey, RB: Screening for Deep Venous Gegenheimer, AP; Hurwitz, SR; Lutter, LD; Mankey, MG; Mann, RA; Miller, RA;
Thrombosis in Asymptomatic Postoperative Orthopedic Patients Using Color Richardson, EG; Schon, LC; Thompson, FM; Yodlowski, ML:
Doppjer Sonography- anaiysis of prevalence and risk factors. Am. J. Roentgenol, ThromboemboiismAfter Foot and Ankle Surgery- a muliicenier study. Cim. Orihop.,
166:659-62, 1996. 348:160-85. 1998.
6. Hatch, DJ; Magnusson, PG; DiGiovanni, JE: Mini-dose heparin prophylaxis for 15. Paiement, GO; Mendelsohn, C: The Risk of Venous Thromboemboism in the
high-risk patients in pediatric surgeiy J. Am. Podiatry Assoc., 70(2):7343, 1980. Grihopedic Patient: Epidemiologicaland Physioiogical Data. Oithopedics. Feb, 20
7. Hyers TM; Agnelii G; Hull RD; Weg JG; Morris T A Samama M; Taspon V: Suppl:7-9, 1997.
AntithromboticTherapyfor Venous Thromboembolic Disease. Chest, 114(5):561S- 16. Servatjoo, P: Deep venous thrombosis. The dilemma of diagnosis. J Am. Podiatr.
78S, 1998 Supplement Med. Assoc., 87(5):224-32 1997.
8. Kakkar, VV; Howe CT; Flanc C; Clarke MB: Natural History of Postoperative 17. Simon, MA; et al: The Effect of Thigh Tourniquet on the Incidence of Deep Venous
Deep-Vein Thrombosis. Lancet ,Aug 2 ik230-32, 1962. Thrombosis after Operations on the Fore Part of the Foot J. Bone Joint Surg., 64-
9. Kroll, HR; Odderson, IR; Alten, FH: Deep vein thrombi associatedwith the use of Af2]:188-91. 1982.
plastic ankleloot orthoses. Arch. Phys. Med. Rehabi1.,79:576-578, 1938. 16. Thomas, AIIL; O'Dwyer, JA: A Phlebographic Study of the lnadence and
10, National Institute of Health: The Practical Guide: Identification. Evaluation and Significance of Venous Thrombosis in the Foot. Am. J. Roentgenoi. 135 751-754,
Treatment of Oveweight and Obesity in Adults, NIH Publication Number 00-4084, 1978
October 2000. 19. Wells, PS; et al: Accuracy of Ultrasound for the Diagnosis of Deep Venous
11. Paiement, GD; Mendelsahn, C: The risk of venous thrornboembolismin the ortho- Thrombosis in Asymptomatic Patients after Orthopaedic Surgery- a rneta-analysis.
pedic patient: Epidemiologicaland physiological data. Orthopedics, Feb., 20 Suppl: Ann Intern Med. 122:47-53, 1995.
7-9, 1997. 20, Wolf, DW: Case records of the California Podiatry Hospital clinicopatholog~cexer-
12,Magnusson, M; Eriksson, 81; Kaiebo, P; Sivertsson, R: Is Colour Doppier cise- postoperative thrombophlebitis. J. Am. Podiatry Assn , 69(3):207.:0. 1979.
ARTICLE IN PRESS
Abstract
Charcot arthropathy (Charcot neuroarthropathy, diabetic neuropathic osteoarthropathy, or neuropathic arthropathy) remains a poorly
understood disease, although recent research has improved our level of knowledge regarding its etiology and treatment. The effects of
Charcot arthropathy are almost exclusively seen in the foot and ankle, and the diagnosis is commonly missed upon initial presentation. It has
been well established that this complication of diabetes mellitus severely reduces the overall quality of life and dramatically increases the
morbidity and mortality of patients. However, there are few high-level evidence studies to support management and treatment options at this
point in time. The goal of this study is to evaluate the modern concepts of Charcot arthropathy through a review of the available literature and
to integrate a perspective of management from the authors' extensive experience.
© 2008 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Key words: Charcot arthropathy; Neuroarthropathy; Neuropathic osteoarthropathy; Diabetes mellitus; Current treatment concepts
1056-8727/08/$ – see front matter © 2008 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
doi:10.1016/j.jdiacomp.2008.09.004
ARTICLE IN PRESS
2 D.K. Wukich, W. Sung / Journal of Diabetes and Its Complications xx (2008) xxx–xxx
of “caries [tuberculosis] of the spine” that correlated spinal though diabetes has emerged as the primary cause (Fabrin
disease with hot, swollen, and asymmetrical joints (Mitchell, et al., 2000; Lavery et al., 2003; Miller & Lichtman, 1955;
1831). Silas Weir Mitchell supported J.K. Mitchell's findings Sinha et al., 1972).
by observing similar clinical features from wounded soldiers The prevalence of Charcot arthropathy, defined as the
with spinal injuries during the American Civil War (Mitchell, number of patients currently with the disease divided by the
Morehouse, & Keen, 1864). In 1868, Jean-Martin Charcot study population (Le & Boen, 1995), is unknown, and this
recognized the importance of their findings and described a may be due to the lack of standardized clinical or
hypertrophic process of destructive arthritis. Fifteen years radiographic diagnostic criteria (Rajbhandari et al., 2002).
later, Charcot and Féré (1883) published the first observa- In a series of 68 patients treated for midfoot Charcot
tions of this process in the “short bones and small joints of arthropathy (Myerson, Henderson, Saxby, & Short, 1994),
the foot [la pied tabetique]” (Sanders, 2004). Charcot the clinicians noted that 25% of the patients referred to their
received universal acclaim at the Seventh International facility had not been diagnosed correctly with active Charcot
Medical Congress in London, and the prominent Sir James arthropathy by the referring institution. These patients were
Paget, recognizing the discovery of a distinct pathologic initially diagnosed with infection, gout, arthritis, fracture,
entity, declared that the disease be known as “Charcot's venous insufficiency, or tumors. There have been estimates
disease” (MacCormac & Klockmann, 1881; Sanders & of prevalence by various authors ranging from 0.08% of the
Frykberg, 2007). However, it was Jordan (1936) who general diabetes patient population to 13% of patients
established the link between Charcot arthropathy and presenting at a high-risk diabetic foot clinic (Frykberg &
diabetes mellitus. Belczyk, 2008). Although there has been much published
The incidence of Charcot arthropathy, defined as the work on Charcot arthropathy in the literature, there remains
number of new cases over a set period of time divided by little work on actual evidence for drawing conclusions about
the study population initially without the disease (Le & its prevalence.
Boen, 1995), was first reported by Miller and Lichtman Charcot arthropathy has also been reported in diabetic
(1955) to occur more often in diabetic neuropathy patients patients who undergo transplant surgery. Matricali, Bam-
than in those with other neurologic disorders. The authors mens, Kuypers, Flour, and Mathieu (2007) retrospectively
accounted that out of 33 patients presenting as new cases of reviewed the medical records of 66 patients with diabetes
Charcot arthropathy, 17 had diabetes while only 4 had who underwent simultaneous pancreas–kidney (SPK) trans-
syphilis. Sinha, Munichoodappa, and Kozak (1972) plants. They found that 8 of 66 patients (12%) developed a
reported an incidence of 1/680 in their series of 68,000 Charcot foot, and they attributed this to long-standing
consecutive admissions of diabetic patients over a 21-year diabetes, high glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) values,
period. The authors suggested that the true incidence was and nephropathy. Pretransplant HbA1c values were sig-
much higher due to several patients in the series who were nificantly higher for the SPK group that developed Charcot
discovered after radiographs had been taken due to arthropathy; however, the study did not mention trauma
unrelated reasons; however, the authors did not specify history, neuropathy, or the role of immunosuppressive
what those unrelated reasons were. Fabrin, Larsen, and therapies in these patients.
Holstein (2000) reported epidemiological data of sponta- Despite the fact that it has been over 300 years since the
neous-onset Charcot arthropathy in a consecutive series of first reported case, Charcot arthropathy of the foot and ankle
diabetic patients. In this long-term observational study from remains a difficult and complex disease to identify, manage,
Denmark, the authors followed an average of 4000 patients and treat. With the increasing prevalence of diabetes
over a 10-year period and found the incidence of Charcot worldwide (Wild, Roglic, Green, Sicree, & King, 2004),
deformity to be 0.3% annually. In a smaller cohort study, health-care providers need to be aware of Charcot arthro-
Lavery, Armstrong, Wunderlich, Tredwell, and Boulton pathy and its potentially limb-threatening complications in
(2003) prospectively reported the incidence of diabetic foot the foot and ankle. The goal of this current concepts review is
complications in a consecutive series of Americans to examine the available literature and to provide the reader
diagnosed with diabetes while enrolled in a diabetes guidance in managing and treating this potentially devastat-
management program. They found a total incidence of ing complication of diabetic neuropathy.
Charcot arthropathy of 8.5/1000 patients per year. However,
they suggested that further studies were needed to explain
the significant differences between non-Hispanic White 3. Etiology and pathogenesis
Americans (11.7/1000 patients per year) and Mexican
Americans (6.4/1000 patients per year). The lower Diabetic Charcot arthropathy typically presents as a
incidence reported in Mexican Americans may be due to warm, swollen, and erythematous foot and ankle. The
failure to recognize the diagnosis, especially in the early appearance of the extremity may be indistinguishable from
stages, thereby underestimating the true rate of incidence. infection, and almost all afflicted patients have severe
The reported incidence of new Charcot arthropathy cases peripheral neuropathy. It is this lack of protective sensation
has remained relatively low among diabetic patients even that delays identification of bony stress injuries that may
ARTICLE IN PRESS
D.K. Wukich, W. Sung / Journal of Diabetes and Its Complications xx (2008) xxx–xxx 3
overload the insensate limb, leading to an active Charcot their somatosensory neuropathy was proportional to that of
process (Chantelau, 2005; Schon & Marks, 1995; Sella & autonomic neuropathy. However, they did not elaborate as to
Barrette, 1999). how the autonomic neuropathy led to increased osteopenia.
Charcot (1868) and Charcot and Féré (1883) believed that Nevertheless, Young et al. concluded that their findings
the disease occurred due to degeneration in the central supported the assertions of Edmonds et al. (1985). The
nervous system, resulting in a neurogenic deficit in bone reduced BMD in Charcot arthropathy patients results in
nutrition. This “neurotrophic theory” stimulated research and reduced bone strength, predisposing patients to the devel-
interest even though they could not provide any evidence, opment of fractures.
outside of observational studies, to support this idea Herbst, Jones, and Saltzman (2004) separated the pattern
(Chantelau & Onvlee, 2006). After many years and several of Charcot arthropathy in the foot and ankle into three
transformations of Charcot's theory, the amount of evidence- groups: fracture, dislocation, and combined fracture–dis-
based studies supporting the “neurotrophic theory” has been location. Although not all Charcot arthropathy patients had
debatable (Banks & McGlamry, 1989). However, there is no reduced BMD in their lower extremity, those within
debate that his work brought the attention of the medical the fracture-pattern group had significantly lower BMD
world to this disease process. compared to the dislocation group and the combination
Although there have been others who suggested that group. They concluded that reduced BMD in the lower
autonomic denervation would lead to a hyperemic state extremity was a specific risk factor for patients developing
(Leriche & Fontaine, 1927), Johnson (1966) is credited for the fracture pattern, especially in the ankle, but those with
describing a variation of Charcot's theory known as the normal BMD were more likely to develop a dislocation or
“neurovascular” theory. From his observations of bed- combination pattern. Their findings also acknowledged why
ridden patients with spinal cord injury, he found radio- successful results vary with early surgical treatment between
graphic evidence of osteolysis. Johnson contended that a patients within the different groups (Bibbo, Lin, Beam, &
central sympathetic failure initiated a hypervascular reflex Behrens, 2001).
that led to a state of overactive bone resorption and Research into the relationship between reduced BMD and
mechanical weakening, thus instigating Charcot arthro- the pathogenesis of Charcot arthropathy has led to the
pathy (Chantelau & Onvlee, 2006; Sanders, 2004). In investigation of bone resorption mediators. Increases in
support of this theory, Edmonds, Clarke, Newton, Barret, certain proinflammatory cytokines, which are known
and Walkins (1985) found a significant increase in the mediators of bone resorption, are a contributing factor to
pattern of isotope uptake on bone scans of patients increased osteoclastic activity in ACA patients (Baumhauer,
diagnosed with Charcot arthropathy of the foot compared O'Keefe, Schon, & Pinzur, 2006). In a study of Charcot-
to those of diabetic neuropathy patients without the arthropathy-reactive bone, osteoclasts were disproportio-
disease. The authors attributed the increase in uptake to nately increased compared to osteoblasts, and the osteoclasts
sympathetic denervation. Others have found the same demonstrated immunoreactivity for interleukin (IL) 1, IL-6,
pattern of isotope uptake in patients experiencing acute and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) α (Baumhauer et al., 2006;
Charcot arthropathy (ACA), but attributed the findings to Jeffcoate, Game, & Cavanagh, 2005). Reacting from an
bony destruction from an acute inflammatory process initial insult, bone resorption due to a disproportionate
(McGill et al., 2000). increase in cytokines is believed to factor into the
Using duel-energy X-ray absorptiometry, Young, Mar- pathogenesis of Charcot arthropathy (Baumhauer et al.,
shall, Adams, Selby, and Boulton (1995) demonstrated that 2006). By measuring serologic markers, Petrova et al. (2007)
the bone mineral densities (BMD) of Charcot-arthropathy- demonstrated that the acute inflammatory Charcot foot is a
afflicted lower extremities were significantly less than those peripheral event and is dissociated from any systemic
of non-Charcot-arthropathy-afflicted diabetic patients. inflammatory response. They concluded that the local
Although there have been other BMD studies that did not inflammatory response demonstrated by the increase in
show differences between diabetic patients with Charcot skin temperature must be related to an increased expression
arthropathy and diabetic patients without Charcot arthro- of proinflammatory cytokines that did not consequently lead
pathy (Clasen, 2000), Young et al.'s findings were in line to a classical systemic acute-phase response.
with those of others who observed bone resorption in up to The role of proinflammatory cytokines and the “receptor
81% of Charcot arthropathy patients (Brower & Allman, activator of nuclear transcription factor κB ligand
1981; Cundy, Edmonds, & Watkins, 1985). All of the (RANK-L)/osteoprotegerin (OPG)” signaling pathway in
patients with Charcot arthropathy were qualitatively diag- Charcot arthropathy pathogenesis provided a modern
nosed with cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy and direction for research and theory (Jeffcoate, 2004; Jeffcoate,
demonstrated significantly reduced BMD in the afflicted 2005a; Jeffcoate et al., 2005). Jeffcoate (2004) observed that
feet. However, there was no difference in lumbar spine BMD in a wide variety of other medical conditions such as
values between patients with Charcot arthropathy and osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease, the RANK-L/OPG
patients without Charcot arthropathy. In agreement with signaling pathway regulates both bone turnover and
previous studies, Young et al. believed that the severity of vascular calcification. He hypothesized that this pathway
ARTICLE IN PRESS
4 D.K. Wukich, W. Sung / Journal of Diabetes and Its Complications xx (2008) xxx–xxx
may play the decisive role in Charcot arthropathy. Increased there are studies linking sympathetic denervation—induced
osteoclastogenesis and subsequent osteolysis result in and noninduced—to this calcification (Edmonds, Morrison,
response to RANK-L up-regulation of nuclear transcription Laws, & Watkins, 1982; Goebel & Fuessl, 1983). There is
factor κB (NF-κB). The glycoprotein OPG, a member of the also evidence that the bones of patients afflicted with syphilis
TNF receptor superfamily, inactivates RANK-L by serving who undergo ACA changes have widened haversian canals
as a decoy receptor, therefore moderating RANK-L activity as a result of the sustained increase in blood flow (Jeffcoate,
and NF-κB expression (Jeffcoate, 2004). RANK-L and OPG 2005a). However, the obvious sympathetic neuropathic
syntheses are essential features of the regulation of the fine consequence leading to bilateral changes in ACA patients
balance of bone homeostasis. A disturbance in the balance should be consistently expected (Jeffcoate, Lima, &
between RANK-L and OPG, which might include trauma, Nobrega, 2000; Young et al., 1995), but unilateral distribu-
surgery, foot ulcers, or iatrogenic factors, is believed to tion is the normal finding (Jeffcoate, 2005b). Bilateral
trigger excessive osteolysis (Frykberg et al., 2006; Jeffcoate, involvement has ranged from 5.9% to 39.3% in hetero-
2004). This cycle is fully realized in the insensate limb of a geneous population studies (Sanders & Frykberg, 2007), but
patient who continues to bear weight on the affected foot, simultaneous bilateral involvement has been reported to be
thereby continually reactivating the inflammatory process. only 0.7% (Fabrin et al., 2000). Another facet of Charcot
Mabilleau, Petrova, Edmonds, and Sabokbar (2008) arthropathy that is not well understood is whether the process
compared osteoclastic activity in active Charcot arthropathy may recur in the same or uninvolved limb (Eichenholtz,
patients to osteoclastic activity in general diabetes patients 1966). Fabrin et al. reported on 20 cases of Charcot
and healthy control patients using in vitro samples of arthropathy recurring in the ipsilateral foot and suggested
peripheral blood monocytes (PBM). From these samples of that recurrent stress injuries to the neuropathic foot,
PBM, the investigators used a previously described techni- regardless of location, may initiate breakdown. This self-
que to generate functional osteoclasts in the presence of limiting process of Charcot arthropathy should not be
macrophage colony-stimulating factors and soluble RANK- expected in someone with irreversible autonomic sympa-
L (Fujikawa, Quinn, Sabokbar, McGee, & Athanasou, 1996; thetic neuropathy (Jeffcoate, 2005b).
Sabokbar & Athanasou, 2003). They then compared the The belief that sympathetic neuropathy acts as a
sample of nine consecutive patients with recent-onset precursor for diabetic bones and joints undergoing a
Charcot arthropathy to the samples of eight diabetic patients “neurotrophic,” vulnerable, and hyperemic state remains
with no history of Charcot arthropathy and eight healthy popular among investigators. There is evidence to suggest
control subjects. After excess concentrations of OPG had that patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus and peripheral
been added to all the samples, the results indicated that the neuropathy have a greater tendency for osteopenia
RANK-L-dependent pathway played a significant role in (Petrova, Foster, & Edmonds, 2005; Rix, Andreassen, &
osteoclastic activity in active Charcot arthropathy, but it also Eskildsen, 1999). Some authors also suggest that auto-
suggested that an alternative non-RANK-L dependent path- nomic sympathetic neuropathy results in increased periph-
way may be involved in combination. eral blood flow (Edmonds et al., 1985; Watkins &
Evidence of unregulated activation of RANK-L derived Edmonds, 1983; Young et al., 1995) and that increased
from sympathetic denervation has only been circumstantial blood flow from arteriovenous shunting occurs in all
(Jeffcoate, 2004). Although some authors have implicated diabetic neuropathy patients with or without Charcot
relationships among peripheral somatosensory neuropathy, arthropathy (Boulton, Scarpello, & Ward, 1982). However,
autonomic sympathetic neuropathy, and osteoclastic activity, investigators have not been able to demonstrate the link
there have been no conclusive studies linking them between autonomic sympathetic neuropathy and increased
(American Diabetes Association, 2008; Young et al., osteoclastic activity in ACA through bone circulatory
1986). Investigators have discovered evidence linking hyperperfusion (Chantelau & Onvlee, 2006). The perspec-
sympathetic autonomic activity to increased osteoclastic tive of Bloomgarden (2005) on clinical diabetic neuropathy
activity (Togari, 2002). The findings indicate that decreased was that the effects of autonomic neuropathy on the foot
sympathetic activity leads to decreased osteoclastic activity, would lead to a state of inefficient circulation and abnormal
or, in other words, sympathetic failure leads to an sweat gland and oil gland functions. Although ulceration
unregulated increase in osteoblastic activity. In light of would likely occur due to this dysfunctional state,
these findings, Chantelau and Onvlee (2006) postulated that Bloomgarden did not attribute bone destruction in Charcot
peripheral osteopenia of the foot and ankle is not the result of arthropathy to autonomic neuropathy. In a case series of 47
decreased autonomic sympathetic activity. Charcot arthropathy patients by Pinzur, Sage, Stuck,
Historically, many have believed that the loss of Kaminsky, and Zmuda (1993), it was noted only half of
sympathetic innervation was associated with increased all patients were also diagnosed with autonomic neuro-
peripheral blood flow, leading to an ACA process (Sanders pathy; however, all 47 patients were diagnosed with
& Frykberg, 2007). Vascular calcification of smooth muscle peripheral sensory neuropathy. In fact, only peripheral
cells (Monckeberg's arteriosclerosis) is commonly found in somatosensory neuropathy has been consistently seen as a
diabetic Charcot arthropathy patients (Jeffcoate, 2005b), and predisposing factor for developing Charcot arthropathy
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D.K. Wukich, W. Sung / Journal of Diabetes and Its Complications xx (2008) xxx–xxx 5
(Armstrong, Todd, Lavery, Harkless, & Bushman, 1997; (Armstrong et al., 1997; Eloesser, 1917; Horwitz, 1948;
Sinha et al., 1972). Kimmerle & Chantelau, 2007; O'Connor, Palmoski, &
Shapiro et al. (1998) examined the patterns of peripheral Brandt, 1985; Sinha et al., 1972).
blood flow and the rhythmic contractions of small arteries The current majority of clinicians believe that a
and arterioles in three groups of patients: those with diabetic combination of these theories may contribute to the
neuropathy and ACA, those with diabetic neuropathy pathogenesis of this disease. The debate between “neuro-
without Charcot arthropathy, and healthy control subjects. vascular" and “neurotraumatic" exclusivity has become an
Despite severe neuropathic findings in Charcot arthropathy antiquated sidebar to the mystery of Charcot arthropathy.
patients, they found that the ACA group did not differ in the Whether these theories equally contribute to—or whether
rate of blood flow when compared to a control group of active Charcot arthropathy is—the sum of two or more
healthy subjects. Also, there was no significant between- unequal parts continues to be explored.
groups difference in their respective vasomotion, defined as
spontaneous rhythmic oscillations of venules and arterioles
that theoretically serve to direct the distribution of blood 4. The course of Charcot arthropathy: modified
flow (Shapiro et al., 1998). This suggested that these patients Eichenholtz stages
would have similar, if not exaggerated, responses to
repetitive trauma. They further suggested that the lack of Early literature contributions concerning Charcot arthro-
inflammatory response seen with diabetic neuropathy pathy lacked clinical findings that correlated with radio-
patients without Charcot arthropathy, when challenged graphic descriptions of the disease. Eichenholtz (1966)
with increased local temperature, may actually act as a published a landmark article on Charcot arthropathy based
preventive factor against the development of the disease. on radiographic appearance and its physiologic course.
Inflammation in response to trauma may explain the Dividing the condition throughout its process, he described
central role for the exaggerated hyperemia (Jeffcoate, three separate but linear stages: developmental, coalescent,
2005b). In addition, the reported low incidence among and reconstructive stages. Shibata, Tada, and Hashizume
diabetic patients may be explained by the high prevalence of (1990) modified the Eichenholtz system to include an
macrovascular disease, which limits the capacity of an earlier stage prior to “development.” Several authors have
inflammatory response. Although there is evidence to proposed that this early inflammatory phase following
suggest that peripheral somatosensory neuropathy and injury be called “Charcot in situ,” “pre-Stage 1,” or “Stage 0
vascular changes are involved in Charcot arthropathy Charcot” (Schon & Marks, 1995; Sella & Barrette, 1999;
(Armstrong et al., 1997), increased blood flow may be Shibata et al., 1990; Yu & Hudson, 2002). This classifica-
more likely the consequence—rather than the cause—of tion is currently being applied by the majority of foot-and-
bony destruction (Chantelau & Onvlee, 2006). ankle physicians to Charcot arthropathy patients in the
In 1886, three notable German physicians, Virchow, staging of the disease. Table 1 shows a summary of this
Rotter, and Volkmann, disputed Charcot's theory of Charcot arthropathy classification.
neurotrophic bone (Anonymous, 1886). They believed that Stage 0 Charcot (inflammatory) arthropathy begins with
a repetitive trauma sustained by a joint that was unable to an initial perceived or nonperceived insult to the neuropathic
sense pain would lead to this disease—the “neurotraumatic” foot-and-ankle complex, producing localized swelling, red-
theory. Gupta (1993) noted that the common thread of ness, and warmth (Chantelau, 2005; Shibata et al., 1990).
pathogenesis included continual injuries from minor trauma Minimal, if any, radiographic abnormalities may be
or isolated major trauma to neuropathic joints. There are detected, and Classen, Rolley, Carneiro, and Martire
many authors who believed that Charcot arthropathy may be (1976) noted that clinical symptoms may precede radio-
triggered in diabetic patients by some type of joint trauma, graphic changes by up to 1 year. Diagnosis of this stage with
and they are supported by the identification of the lack of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or technetium bone
protective sensation as a predisposing factor to the disease scans may prove to be critical in preventing the disease from
Table 1
Modified Eichenholtz stages a
Stage Phase Description
0 Inflammatory Localized warmth, swelling, and redness; minimal to no radiographic abnormalities; MRI may show nondisplaced pathologic fracture(s)
and increased marrow edema to the foot and/or ankle
1 Development Localized warmth, marked swelling, and redness; radiographic presence of bony debris, fragmentation of subchondral bone, periarticular
fracture, subluxation, and/or dislocation
2 Coalescence Continued but decreased warmth, swelling, and redness; radiographic presence of absorption of fine debris, new bone formation,
coalescence of fragments, fusion of joints (ankylosis), and/or sclerosis of bone ends
3 Remodeling Marked decrease or absence of warmth, swelling, and redness; physically enlarged fixed (“healing”) deformity; radiographic appearance
of remodeled and new bone formation, decreased sclerosis, and/or possible gross residual deformity
a
Modified from Eichenholtz (1966).
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6 D.K. Wukich, W. Sung / Journal of Diabetes and Its Complications xx (2008) xxx–xxx
progressing into the development phase (Chantelau & Poll, case reports of isolated involvement within the body that do
2006). Schon and Marks (1995) proposed that neuropathic not include the foot or the ankle (Bayne & Lu, 1998;
diabetic patients be identified as being at risk for Charcot Edison & Finger, 2005; Lambert & Close, 2002); however,
arthropathy even after only minor injury to limbs with loss less attention is paid to these anatomical sites due to lack of
of protective sensation. Repetitive cumulative injuries to readily available data. When multiple joints are involved in
insensate patients may progress into the destructive stage of Charcot arthropathy, these may be seen at different
Charcot arthropathy and may lead to gross foot deformity, Eichenholtz stages, and these multiple joint attacks may
ulceration, infections, and/or amputation (Armstrong et al., even course at different progressive rates of destruction
1997; Chantelau, Richter, Ghassem-Zadeh, & Poll, 2007). (Eichenholtz, 1966). However, a study by Fabrin et al.
In contrast, patients with intact protective sensation limit the (2000) showed that recurrent and/or multiple joint attacks
progressive course of repetitive injury by offloading the were not influenced by any particular location. The lack of
injured limb. Identification of this prodromal stage may data and standardization of assessment for ACA may fuel
deter further progression into the latter stages of Charcot debate as to whether these cases of “recurrence” may
arthropathy, thus preventing further deformity and compli- actually be, in fact, true recurrence.
cations (Chantelau, 2005; Frykberg et al., 2006). Frequently,
Stage 0 patients are misdiagnosed as cellulitis, gout, or deep
vein thrombosis due to its clinical appearance and normal 5. Anatomical classifications
radiographic findings, but increased clinical awareness and
education of the health-care provider can potentially limit Several authors have anatomically classified the char-
the progression of the disease. acteristics of Charcot arthropathy by observing the patterns
Stage 1 Charcot arthropathy (development) is distin- of destruction to the foot and ankle (Brodsky & Rouse, 1993;
guished by marked warmth, swelling, and redness, and Sanders & Frykberg, 2007; Sanders & Mrdjenovich, 1991;
radiographic changes are evident in the bone-and-joint Schon, Weinfeld, Horton, & Resch, 1998; Sella & Barrette,
architecture (Eichenholtz, 1966). The appearance of bony 1999). Although this disease has been associated with other
debris, fragmentation of subchondral bone, subluxation, bodily sites in the diabetic patient (Bayne & Lu, 1998;
dislocation, and periarticular fractures are common findings Lambert & Close, 2002), it almost exclusively affects the
during Stage 1. This stage may also have abnormal foot and the ankle.
laboratory values that indicate overactive osteoclastic and Sanders and Frykberg (1991) divided the foot and the
osteoblastic activities (Chantelau & Onvlee, 2006). ankle into five patterns of destruction for diabetic Charcot
Stage 2 Charcot arthropathy (coalescence) follows, with arthropathy and correlated different anatomical patterns with
decreasing warmth, swelling, and redness, and radio- the frequency of complications: Pattern I (forefoot)=15%;
graphic signs of healing fracture fragments (Eichenholtz, Pattern II (tarsometatarsal joints)=40%; Pattern III (navicu-
1966). Although sometimes difficult to distinguish, Stage 2 locuneiform, talonavicular, and calcaneocuboid joints)=30%;
Charcot arthropathy is considered separate from Stage 1 Pattern IV (ankle and/or subtalar joint)=10%; Pattern V
Charcot arthropathy, and the clearest detection of Stage 2 (calcaneus)=5% (Sanders & Frykberg, 1991). The most
is radiographic appearance of osseous debris absorption, severe structural deformity and functional instability are
coalescence of bone fragments, and/or new periosteal found at the Lisfranc joint and at the ankle/subtalar joints.
bone formation. Destruction at the calcaneus is not commonly seen with
Stage 3 Charcot arthropathy (remodeling) results as the Charcot arthropathy (Sanders & Frykberg, 2007), but it may
final consolidation of fractured and deformed bone without be associated with an isolated pathologic fracture or avulsion
the warmth, swelling, and redness seen previously (Eichen- injury of the posterior tuberosity (Brodsky & Rouse, 1993). A
holtz, 1966). This stage is characterized by osseous summary of this anatomical classification is described
deformity that can be either stable or unstable. Considered in Table 2.
the chronic stage of Charcot arthropathy, osteoclastic and Brodsky (2007) described an anatomical classification
osteoblastic activities are no longer increased, as confirmed based on the four areas most commonly affected by Charcot
by laboratory test (Chantelau & Onvlee, 2006). Radio- arthropathy. Representing about 60% of the anatomical sites
graphic appearance of a mature fracture callus, bony that develop Charcot arthropathy, Type I (“midfoot”) is
remodeling of major fragments, and decreased sclerosis considered the most common site and includes the
signify the finality of the permanent deformity. metatarsocuneiform and naviculocuneiform joints. These
Although Eichenholtz described the Charcot course in are also noted to be associated with symptomatic bony
linear stages, the time of progression through each stage prominences. The second most common site, Type 2
can vary from weeks to months to years. However, (“hindfoot”), includes the subtalar, talonavicular, or calca-
neuropathy remains unchanged throughout the Charcot neocuboid joints, where bony prominences are less common.
process, whether active or quiescent (Armstrong et al., It accounts for 30–35% of anatomical incidence. Type 3 is
1997; Sinha et al., 1972). ACA initially begins in one joint divided into “A” and “B,” or the ankle and the posterior
and may progress to other proximal joints. There have been calcaneus, respectively. Comprising 9% of Charcot
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Table 2
Charcot arthropathy anatomical classification a
Pattern Location Description
I Forefoot Involving the interphalangeal joints, phalanges, metatarsophalangeal joints, and/or distal metatarsal bones;
commonly occurring pattern, also seen with plantar ulceration; seen as osteopenia, osteolysis, juxtaarticular cortical
bone defects, subluxation, and destruction on radiographs
II Tarsometatarsal joints Involving the tarsometatarsal joints and metatarsal bases, cuneiforms, and cuboid; commonly occurring pattern,
with greater frequency in diabetic patients than in patients with leprosy; may be associated with plantar ulceration at
the apex of deformity; seen as subluxation or fracture–dislocation, collapse of midfoot, and resultant rocker-bottom
foot deformity (consistent with initial features of osteoarthritis) on radiographs; may have dorsal prominence at
metatarsal bases; late changes include fragmentation
III Naviculocuneiform, talonavicular, Involving usually the naviculocuneiform joint and navicular bone but also the other midtarsal joints and bones;
and calcaneocuboid joints ulceration may occur at the apex of deformity and may be in combination with Pattern II; on radiographs, seen as
osteolysis of naviculocuneiform joints with fragmentation; with osseous debris both dorsally and plantarly
IV Ankle and subtalar joints Involving the ankle joint with or without the subtalar joint and medial or lateral malleolar fracture; considered a
severe structural deformity with instability—may even be associated with minor ankle sprain; on radiographs, seen
as malleolar fractures, erosion of bone and cartilage with collapse of joint, free bodies in ankle, extensive
destruction, and lateral dislocation of ankle
V Calcaneus Rarely involving only the calcaneus bone and usually involving an avulsion fracture of the posterior tubercle;
although no joint is involved, the pattern develops in patients with Charcot arthropathy; on radiographs, seen as
osteolytic changes in the posterior calcaneus attachment of the Achilles tendon; avulsion fracture of the posterior
tubercle may ensue; osteolytic changes may also occur at the naviculocuneiform joint due to additional stress
during liftoff in the gait cycle (this may be due to lack of an Achilles tendon attachment to the calcaneus)
a
Adapted from Sanders and Frykberg (2007).
arthropathy presentations, Type 3A involves the tibiotalar laterally at the fourth and fifth metatarsocuneiform joints.
joint and associated bones, and Type 3B, representing less The “perinavicular pattern” includes the navicular and its
than 2% of presentations (Sanders & Frykberg, 2007), surrounding bones, and patients with this pattern may have a
involves a pathologic fracture of the tuberosity of the tendency toward an adducted forefoot. The “transverse tarsal
calcaneus. Brodsky and Rouse (1993) also noted that the pattern” involves significant deformity in the talonavicular
breakdown of soft tissues from bony prominences occurred joint, including the medial and central columns. Unlike the
most commonly in Type I patterns, and these ulcers were other patterns, the “transverse tarsal pattern” has much larger
located on the plantar surface of the foot. Trepman, Nihal, talocalcaneal and talonavicular coverage angles. By examin-
and Pinzur (2005) have noted the obvious lack of inclusion ing the severity of the mechanical malalignment, the health-
for the forefoot and multiple regions of involvement, and care provider could assess the treatment appropriate for the
have modified Brodsky's anatomical classification to include midfoot using radiographic and clinical parameters. It was
these sites. also noted that the most severe “rocker-bottom” phase in any
Because of their increased proportion of involvement in of the four patterns of Charcot midfoot could lead to
Charcot arthropathy, the midfoot and medial column of the ulceration and/or infection at the midfoot (Schon, Easley, &
foot have been further classified into separate schemes. Weinfeld, 1998).
Schon et al. (1998) evaluated 131 feet from 109 patients to The medial column of the Charcot foot was also further
describe the patterns of acquired midfoot deformities, and divided into five clinical stages using clinical findings,
although many etiologies of midfoot deformities were radiographs, and bone scans (Sella & Barrette, 1999).
included, 89 of the 109 patients were diagnosed with Similar to the modified Eichenholtz classification, the first
Charcot arthropathy. Assessed from the three standard of the five stages is called Stage 0, and the medial column is
radiographic views, the anatomical location with the most swollen, warm, and often painful; however, radiographs are
clinically significant involvement would determine the negative for any abnormal findings. Clinical symptoms
pattern type. Each of the four patterns in this classification persist into Stage 1 with radiographic findings of periarti-
was divided into three separate clinical stages ranging in the cular cysts, erosions, localized osteopenia, and sometimes
degree of midfoot collapse, regardless of etiology. diastases. Once subluxation is seen, Stage 2 is reached, with
The “Lisfranc pattern” has radiographic breakdown the second metatarsocuneiform joint usually involved. Stage
involving the first three metatarsocuneiform joints, and as 3 is identified with joint dislocation and arch collapse, while
the stages progresses in severity from A to C, the fourth and Stage 4 represents the healed stage wherein the end result is a
fifth metatarsocuboid joints become involved. The “navicu- sclerotic fusion of involved bones and joints.
locuneiform pattern” is seen when the majority of radio- Although several authors have provided classification
graphic deformities occur more proximally and medially at schemes with some clinical importance, none has been able
the naviculocuneiform joint. Less significant anatomical to predict outcome (Rajbhandari et al., 2002). These different
deformities can also be seen in the central column and classifications do add insight into the understanding of
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8 D.K. Wukich, W. Sung / Journal of Diabetes and Its Complications xx (2008) xxx–xxx
diabetic Charcot arthropathy and do not enable clinicians to Lipsky, 2005). It may be easy to clinically diagnose an
accurately describe the stage and location of the disease. infection with an obvious open wound, but this does not
exclude a concomitant Charcot process. Some have observed
cases of Charcot arthropathy that may have been triggered by
6. Clinical presentation and standard diagnostics cellulitis, osteomyelitis (OM), and even synovitis (Arm-
strong et al., 1997; Jeffcoate, 2005b). Positive systemic signs
The American Diabetes Association (2008) recently of infection include leukocytosis, elevated C-reactive protein
released its position statement for standards of medical and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) levels, and recent
care and foot care recommendations for patients. The unexplained hyperglycemia. However, unremarkable clin-
American Diabetes Association (2004) has long recognized ical tests may not necessarily exclude infection, making
the need for the screening and evaluation of the foot and distinction between the two difficult. The treatment regimen
ankle of patients with long-standing diabetes, especially is therefore dependent on the accurate diagnosis of infection.
those who have developed neuropathy. These recommenda- The Charcot arthropathy patient may present for treatment
tions rely on a keen understanding of the diabetic foot and at any stage of the disease, but the common reasons for
ankle, with all their possible complications. If the treating seeking medical consultation may be mild and moderate
physician can recognize Charcot arthropathy without delay, pain, severe edema of the foot, and inability to put their shoe
the chances of devastating morbidity and mortality decrease on due to swelling (Wilson, 1991). Chantelau (2005)
substantially (Chantelau, 2005). reported that 19 of 24 patients (80%) were misdiagnosed
The diagnosis of Charcot arthropathy is primarily reliant as sprain, OM, Sudeck's atrophy, deep vein thrombosis,
on clinical presentation, but a physician's high index of cellulitus, or rheumatoid arthritis instead of Charcot arthro-
suspicion should not be underappreciated (Armstrong & pathy, and all continued to bear weight on the involved limb
Peters, 2002; Jeffcoate, 2005b; Sanders & Frykberg, 2007). prior to referral to a specialty clinic. Although radiographs
A thorough patient history is essential to any assessment; may not reveal any bone or joint abnormalities during the
however, a neuropathic patient's history can be unintention- prodromal inflammatory stage of the Charcot process,
ally misleading. It is therefore up to the clinician to know radiographic studies, in correlation with clinical exam, are
what questions to ask and what information is important one of the tools widely used to differentiate the disease
when making an assessment. Special attention must be given (Sanders & Frykberg, 2007). When this initial stage is
to the patient especially if history of any trauma, history of suspected but not proven, the patient should be prevented
neuropathy, recent swelling, redness in the limb, or a from incurring any additional injury to the suspected limb.
combination of the like is uncovered. With immobilization and offloading, the patient is protected
Counterintuitively, the history may include pain sensa- while awaiting the results of further investigation.
tions in an insensate limb but no recollection of any sustained Gouty arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can be separated
trauma. In a study of 55 patients with Charcot arthropathy, from Charcot arthropathy by their radiographic and clinical
more than 75% complained of pain in the foot upon features (Trepman et al., 2005). Radiographs of the foot and
presentation even though all subjects had a clinical loss of ankle that are taken in the non-weight-bearing position can
protective sensation to the 10-g Semmes–Weinstein mono- have obvious variability in image quality and may not show
filament wire (Armstrong et al., 1997). Repetitive trauma to subtle instability compared to radiographs in the weight-
the foot and ankle may be entirely absent from verbal history bearing position. It is recommended that all foot-and-ankle
even though clinical symptoms prove otherwise. The study radiographic examinations be obtained in a weight-bearing
found that only 22% of patients were able to recall some position if possible.
specific traumatic event prior to the onset of Charcot MRI exams are increasingly being used and recom-
arthropathy. The loss of protective sensation may leave the mended for diagnosing Charcot arthropathy, especially at the
patient unaware of any particular event or reoccurring minor earliest stage (Chantelau & Poll, 2006; Sanders & Frykberg,
events (Chantelau, Richter, Schmidt-Grigoriadis, & Scher- 2007). Chantelau et al. (2007) evaluated 12 consecutive
baum, 2006). diabetic patients with polyneuropathy who presented with
It is important to investigate any previous history of only mild pain and a swollen foot. All of these patients had
infections or ulcers to rule out a recurring acute or chronic plain radiographs that did not demonstrate any osseous
infection. The usual presentation of Charcot arthropathy abnormality. MRI studies in all these patients revealed bone
involves a warm, swollen, erythematous foot or ankle in an stress injury with a median involvement of 2.5 bones per
insensate patient and, because of its similarity to an acute foot, which were previously undetected using plain radio-
soft-tissue infection, heightened awareness is needed when graphs. Although bone scintigraphy and white blood cell
dealing with the diabetic neuropathy patient population scans have been traditionally advocated for the differentia-
(Armstrong et al., 1997; Pinzur et al., 1993). Most infections tion and diagnosis of Charcot arthropathy, there is clear
in the diabetic foot involve a direct source of inoculation evidence that MRI offers the highest diagnostic accuracy
through an opening in the skin, usually caused by (Tan & Teh, 2007). Differentiating between OM and ACA
neuropathic ulcers (Sanders, 1994; Singh, Armstrong, & has been noted to be difficult due to similar signal intensity
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D.K. Wukich, W. Sung / Journal of Diabetes and Its Complications xx (2008) xxx–xxx 9
changes (Marcus et al., 1996). However, there are several nonhealing wound or suspected bone infection (Sanders &
MRI features that—with clinical correlation, anatomical Frykberg, 2007).
distribution, and abnormal appearance—help distinguish
these two diagnoses (Tan & Teh, 2007). In OM, the pattern
of bone marrow edema tends to involve a single bone with 7. Nonoperative therapies and medical management
diffuse marrow involvement, but in ACA, the pattern tends
to be periarticular and subchondral (Tan & Teh, 2007). The treatment of Charcot arthropathy depends on many
Distribution of OM has a focal involvement, usually the factors, including the course or stage of Charcot arthropathy
weight-bearing surfaces of the toes, metatarsal heads, or (Eichenholtz, 1966), location(s) of involvement (Sanders &
calcaneus (Ledermann, Morrison, & Schweitzer, 2002), Frykberg, 2007; Sinacore, 1998), presence of ulcers (Saltz-
while ACA usually has several joints/bones involved. man et al., 2005), and ability to achieve a stable and
Differentiating based on site involvement is helpful; plantigrade foot (Harrelson, 1993). Other factors that could
however, it cannot be relied on solely. Deformity is usually affect treatment options are comorbidities (American
present with ACA along with bone debris, but OM does not Diabetes Association, 2008) such as cardiovascular disease,
typically involve deformity unless there is an underlining morbid obesity, nephropathy, or infected ulcer (Armstrong
Charcot process. The clinical presence of soft-tissue disease, et al., 1997; Saltzman et al., 2005). The goals for every
ulcerations, soft-tissue abscess, or sinus tract in the foot can patient undergoing treatment for an acute or quiescent
improve the overall diagnostic accuracy for OM (Morrison, Charcot process should be to maintain or achieve structural
Schweitzer, Batte, Radack, & Russel, 1998); however, MRI stability of the foot and ankle, to prevent ulceration, and to
changes without these clinical findings may sway the preserve a plantigrade foot.
diagnosis away from OM. The limitations to an MRI exam The initial treatment for Stage 0 or Stage 1 Charcot
include the presence of internal fixation devices, associated arthropathy is typically offloading in a total contact cast
cost, and lack of available MRI equipment. (TCC) (Sanders & Frykberg, 2007). Persistent warmth and
Bone scintigraphy is highly sensitive, but lacks specificity increased temperature at the site involved indicate that the
in the diagnosis of Charcot arthropathy (Schauwecker, Park, Charcot process has yet to progress to Stage 2. One specialty
Burt, Mock, & Wellman, 1988). It is mainly used to rule out center's experience found that 60% of patients with midfoot
OM in diabetic patients with open wounds that may or may Charcot arthropathy had minimal deformity and were treated
not have bone destruction on radiographs. The determination successfully without surgery (Pinzur, 2004). This finding
to use bone scans should be based on “clinical suspicion.” emphasized that if ACA is treated judiciously, achievement
However, when bone destruction is evident on radiographs of a stable midfoot without incurring surgery or skin
without an open wound, then there is less need to undergo a breakdown is possible. It may also be prudent to monitor
three-phase 99technetium scan. However, when MRI is not temperature changes at the site of involvement to detect any
available for neuropathic diabetic patients with open wounds areas that may be experiencing repetitive stress (Lavery et
and if an MRI is not available, the use of a bone scan to rule al., 2004) perpetuating the Charcot process.
out OM may be warranted. Some authors recommend using Although alternatives devices for immobilization and
leukocyte-labeled bone scans (111indium or 99mtechnetium offloading have been studied, the TCC is considered by
hexamethylpropyleneamine oxime) to help exclude OM many clinicians as the treatment of choice (Armstrong et al.,
(Rogers & Bevilacqua, 2008a). 1997; Frykberg et al., 2006; Myerson, Papa, Eaton, &
Histological specimens can be obtained through wound or Wilson, 1992; Pinzur, 2007; Pinzur et al., 1993). Some
surgical intervention, but this is primarily used for research clinicians have recommended an 8- to 12-week non-weight-
methods only. In diagnosing Charcot arthropathy, Horwitz bearing immobilization in a TCC, while others have allowed
(1948) found multiple shards of bone and soft tissue weight bearing as tolerated from the start of treatment
embedded in the deep layers of the synovium. One review (Sanders & Frykberg, 2007). Although ambulation after an
described findings of abnormal values of bone-specific initial period of non-weight-bearing is often recommended,
alkaline phosphatase, type 1 collagen carboxyterminal weight bearing during the acute stage may not adversely
telopeptide, and urinary desoxypiridinoline cross-links, affect their Charcot limb. A preliminary study of 10 patients
indicating increased osteoclastic/osteoblastic activities examined whether allowing patients with ACA localized to
throughout Eichenholtz Stages 1 and 2 (Chantelau & Onvlee, the midfoot to bear weight was detrimental to their outcome
2006). Baumhauer et al. (2006) found that Charcot- (Pinzur, Lio, & Posner, 2006). The patient population was
arthropathy-reactive bone had osteoclasts disproportionately considered “overweight,” and their large stature did not
increased compared to osteoblasts, and the osteoclasts permit these patients from maintaining a non-weight-bearing
demonstrated immunoreactivity for IL-1, IL-6, and TNFα. status. All 10 patients were permitted to bear weight as
Although these laboratory findings may assist a clinician's tolerated in a TCC, utilizing assistive devices as needed. The
assessment, it is impractical to obtain histological samples authors concluded that the use of “conscientious total contact
from patients presenting with the initial symptoms. It is therapy” and biweekly cast changes allowed all patients to
recommended that biopsies be collected only when there is a successfully progress into custom shoes. Whether or not
ARTICLE IN PRESS
10 D.K. Wukich, W. Sung / Journal of Diabetes and Its Complications xx (2008) xxx–xxx
bearing weight, cast changes every week to every 2 weeks is possible complications and patient compliance issues before
needed to accommodate for decreased edema. proceeding with Charcot arthropathy management.
Factoring in the increased load stress on the contralateral Saltzman et al. (2005) found that “intensive, nonopera-
limb, Clohisy and Thompson (1988) suggested that the non- tive” treatment for Charcot arthropathy patients varied based
weight-bearing TCC may actually have unfavorable con- on whether the patient presented initially with or without
sequences on the weight-bearing non-Charcot limb. Others ulceration. The standardized regimen for treatment included
have also noted that the increased pressure attributed to a immobilization of the foot and ankle and administration of
three-point gait may induce unnatural stress patterns, antibiotics, if there was a presenting infected ulcer. After
resulting in ulcerations (Lesko & Maurer, 1989). Using a resolution of the infection, patients were placed in a non-
patellar tendon-bearing cast or orthosis can help negate the weight-bearing TCC. After erythema and warmth had
increased load on the contralateral limb (Saltzman, Johnson, resolved, the patients were braced in a weight-bearing foot-
Goldstein, & Donnelly, 1992). and-ankle orthosis. Their treatment regimen identified a 3%
Sinacore (1998) found that the different anatomical annual amputation risk due to infection and a 49% annual
locations affected by Charcot arthropathy would also affect amputation risk for recurrent ulceration. This retrospective
healing times in TCC. Although patient compliance and study suggested that not all patients at Stage 0 or Stage 1
delay from diagnosis to treatment were essential factors Charcot arthropathy would benefit from initial TCC
leading to shorter healing times, Sinacore found that Charcot treatment, especially those with a history of prior ulcerations.
arthropathy of the hindfoot (mean, 97±16 days), midfoot Bisphosphonates are popular as antiresorptive drugs
(mean, 96±11 days), and ankle (mean 83±22 days) took against osteoporosis, Paget's disease, and other diseases
significantly longer to heal in TCC than Charcot arthropathy with increased bone turnover (Rogers, 2003), and there have
of the forefoot (mean, 55±17 days). The total time of non- been reports on the possibility of pharmacologic therapy for
weight-bearing TCC and the immobilization period in a ACA (Anderson, Woelffer, Holtzman, & Jacobs, 2004;
weight-bearing TCC or Charcot restraint orthotic walker Selby, Young, & Boulton, 1994). One study infused
(CROW) device may last up to 4–6 months (Frykberg et al., pamidronate intravenously in ACA patients while comparing
2006). Once there is bony consolidation, custom inserts or its effects to saline (Jude et al., 2001). The authors performed
extra-deep shoes can be worn, followed by proper physician a randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled study in 39
visits to ensure no uneven distribution of plantar pressures. patients and found significant reductions in bone turnover
Although the TCC is an effective treatment for the markers, temperature, and pain symptoms. However,
ACA process, there have been complications associated significant findings in time to ambulation and time to
with this treatment, usually related to weight-bearing radiographic consolidation were not reported. Pitocco et al.
allowance (Guyton, 2005; Wukich & Motko, 2004). In a (2005) evaluated the oral efficacy of bisphosphonate
study of 70 neuropathic patients with 389 TCC changes, compounds for the treatment of ACA patients during a
Guyton found a complication rate of 6% per cast, and the 6-month randomized controlled trial. Their results showed a
greatest contributing factor for complications was the significant reduction in serum collagen COOH-terminal
diagnosis of Charcot arthropathy. The study concluded telopeptide of type 1 collagen and hydroxyprolin (known
that TCC was a safe and reliable technique for offloading bone resorption markers) and noted clinical improvements in
and immobilizing the neuropathic foot because of the the Charcot foot at 6 months. Although some consider these
predictable low rates of minor and reversible complica- studies as strong evidence supporting the use of bispho-
tions. Wukich and Motko concluded that minor complica- sphonates in the treatment of early-stage Charcot arthropathy
tions such as irritation and cast tightness should be (Pinzur, 2007; Tan, Greenstein, Jarrett, & McGonagle,
anticipated, but the avoidance of major complications 2005), these drugs have not been approved by the US
relied mostly on well-trained casting technique, appro- Food and Drug Administration for use in Charcot arthro-
priate follow-up, and proper patient education. pathy patients. The US Food and Drug Administration
After TCC, some patients may benefit from CROW (2008) has issued an alert regarding bisphosphonate use and
device (Frykberg et al., 2006). The CROW device offers the the “possibility of severe and sometimes incapacitating bone,
capacity to offload the forefoot and may replace the initial joint, and/or muscle (musculoskeletal) pain in patients.”
TCC because of its similar offloading capability (Hartsell, Black et al. (2007) studied the use of bisphosphonates for
Fellner, & Saltzman, 2001). However, the design of the postmenopausal osteoporosis and reported that “serious
removable walker device also relies heavily on patient atrial fibrillation occurred more frequently in the zoledronic
compliance. Armstrong, Short, Nixon, and Boulton (2002) acid [bisphosphonate] group” than in the placebo-controlled
described the “instant TCC” technique that transformed a group. To be clear, atrial fibrillation has not been reported
removable cast walker to one that is less easily removed. with the use of pamidronate or other bisphosphonates
Although it addresses the disadvantages of removable approved by the US Food and Drug Administration, but
walkers in Charcot arthropathy management, the additional only with zoledronic acid. However, with these data, the use
plaster around the walker creates a heavier, bulkier, and less of bisphosphonates in ACA patients must be carefully
practical device. Patients and physicians must be aware of all evaluated and all consequences must be examined fully.
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D.K. Wukich, W. Sung / Journal of Diabetes and Its Complications xx (2008) xxx–xxx 11
A randomized controlled study compared bone turnover individual clinical expertise with the best available external
and temperature between a study group that received salmon evidence (Sackett, Rosenberg, Gray, Haynes, & Richardson,
calcitonin nasal spray daily with calcium supplementation 1996). Individual clinical expertise relies on the proficiency
and a control group that received only calcium supplementa- and judgment acquired through clinical experience and
tion (Bem, Jirkovska, Fejfarova, Skibova, & Jude, 2006). practice with Charcot arthropathy patients. The best
Although both groups received offloading treatments by a available external evidence relies on relevant basic science
removable contact cast or a cast walker, the study group research and patient-centered clinical research into the
showed significant reduction in bone turnover compared accuracy, precision, and safety of therapeutic treatments.
with the control group during the 3-month follow-up. The However, there is a lack of high-level evidence supporting
advantage of calcitonin may be its direct impact on the the basis of surgical therapies in the treatment of Charcot
RANK-L/OPG system, with fewer complications compared arthropathy patients. Levels of evidence for medical
to bisphosphonate use (Bem et al., 2006). therapeutic studies—from Level 5 (expert opinion) to
Other adjunct therapies have also been offered to help Level 1A (systematic review of homogenous randomized
manage ACA. Electric bone growth (EBG) stimulators controlled trials)—were established to better interpret the
(Grady et al., 2000; Petrisor & Lau, 2005) have been quality of studies, with grades of recommendations (from A
experimentally applied and clinically tested to promote to D) based on the consistency and quality of these studies
healing of fractures in the acute phase. In theory, the EBG (Phillips et al., 2001; Wright, Einhorn, & Heckman, 2005).
stimulator generates an increased number of hydroxyl ions, The difficulty of structuring a blinded prospective rando-
increasing the pH and thus decreasing tissue oxygen mized study in a surgical specialty limits the availability of
pressure (Lavine & Grodzinsky, 1987). This scenario “high-level” evidence, and the relatively low prevalence of
correlates with what has been found in animal studies of Charcot arthropathy restricts the number of patients per
bone repair (Brighton & Heppenstall, 1971). In a small case study. Currently, surgeons are carefully constructing an
series of 10 patients, Grady et al. found that when their EBG integrated strategy for operative treatment in Charcot
stimulator was used during the initial period of immobiliza- arthropathy based on the best available evidence and
tion, there was a clinical decrease in ACA symptoms. The individual clinical experience.
authors also reported radiographic consolidation in all From a literature search on MEDLINE (using the key
patients in an average of 3.5 months. However, this limited terms Charcot, arthropathy, neuroarthropathy, osteoar-
case series did not examine the efficacy of a EBG stimulator thropathy, surgery, and diabetes) from 1960 to July 2008,
compared to immobilization with a TCC during ACA approximately 430 articles were cited. Of these articles, 80
(Pinzur, 2007). Although little evidence has been provided reported on operative treatments and/or discussed operative
to support the use of EBG stimulators in ACA treatment, its management. Over half of the articles (43 of 80) were
use has been supported as an adjunct therapy during the noncontrolled retrospective case series (Level 4), one article
postsurgical reconstruction period in Charcot arthropathy was a non-controlled prospective study (Level 4), and the
patients (Hockenbury, Gruttadauria, & McKinney, 2007; rest were expert opinions or case reports (Level 5). There
Petrisor & Lau, 2005; Saxena, DiDomenico, Widtfeldt, were no controlled or randomized prospective (Levels 1 and
Adams, & Kim, 2005). 2) or controlled retrospective (Level 3) studies reported on
A series of case reports has described the use of adjunct this topic. The current knowledge base for operative
low-intensity ultrasound for Charcot arthropathy treatment management of Charcot arthropathy is based on approxi-
(Strauss & Gonya, 1998). The authors reported a patient who mately 1000 patients who have been reported in the
underwent five surgical procedures at the tibiotalar joint and literature between 1960 and July 2008. However, this
calcaneus without success of healing. Provisional surgery number may be less on closer inspection because some
using a retrograde nail across the subtalar and tibiotalar joints authors may have reported data on the same patients in
was elected, and low-intensity ultrasound was begun post- separate articles. The surgical procedures that were men-
operatively after initial soft-tissue healing. The outcome tioned in conjunction with Charcot arthropathy operative
revealed complete arthrodesis 5 1/2 months after the management include amputations; arthrodesis; debridement
application of the ultrasound device. Although these findings of ulcers, drainage, or infections; and exostectomies.
were promising, there have been no subsequent studies to The optimal surgical management has not reached a
validate this method. consensus due to the lack of robust data supporting any
particular approach. However, this has not deterred surgeons
from addressing concerns of deformity, ulceration, and joint
8. Integrated strategy for operative treatment stability due to the effects of Charcot arthropathy on the foot
and management and ankle. Most clinicians agree that the indications for
surgical intervention in Charcot arthropathy include, but are
As the discipline of evidence-based medicine continues not limited to, recurring ulcer(s), joint instability, pain
to improve patient care and clinical practice, operative associated with malalignment, offending exotosis, and
treatment for Charcot arthropathy must also integrate potential skin complications from inability to brace or from
ARTICLE IN PRESS
12 D.K. Wukich, W. Sung / Journal of Diabetes and Its Complications xx (2008) xxx–xxx
a nonplantigrade foot (Burns & Wukich, 2008). At specialty Marcus, & Heiple, 1995). Successful surgical intervention
referral centers, Charcot arthropathy patients who undergo for ACA has not been established in the hindfoot or ankle,
minor and/or major surgical procedures have ranged from and this may be due to the peripheral BMD deficiency
14% (Fabrin et al., 2000) to 51% (Pinzur, 1999). Amputation associated with certain Charcot arthropathy patients (Herbst
rates of the lower extremity have ranged from 3% to 9%, et al., 2004). Overall, the timing of surgical intervention
depending primarily on avoidance of ulceration (Saltzman remains controversial due to the lack of high-level evidence-
et al., 2005). One center hypothesized that amputation risk based literature on reconstructive surgery in Charcot
increased with a more proximal location of deformity and arthropathy (Burns & Wukich, 2008).
complexity of infection (Rogers & Bevilacqua, 2008b). The Treatment decisions and expected outcomes are usually
authors believed that the more proximal is the Charcot based on the anatomical pattern of Charcot arthropathy, stage
deformity and with increasing degree of infection, the more of the disease, and associated comorbidities. After a mutual
likely is the chance of amputation. However, they did not decision to proceed with surgical treatment has been made,
correlate this hypothesis with patient data. Saltzman et al. preoperative assessment of adequate vascularity, nutritional
found that the majority of amputations were performed in status, and BMD is prudent to achieve the optimal
patient(s) who had developed Charcot arthropathy distal to environment for wound healing and successful surgery
the midfoot (nine cases), compared to more proximal (Burns & Wukich, 2008).
amputations (six cases). This cohort study of 127 limbs The type of surgical approach depends on many factors,
reported that the location of Charcot arthropathy did not play including the amount and location of deformity, ulceration
a significant role in whether ulceration would occur or with and without infection, stability, and skill of the surgical
whether the likelihood of amputation was necessary. Instead, team. Although the senior author has vast surgical and
they found that those with chronic recurrent ulcerations were nonsurgical experience with Charcot arthropathy patients,
significantly more likely to require amputations (36%) than the complexity and diverse presentations of the foot and
those without chronic recurrent ulcerations (6%). ankle that this center encounters may not mirror those of
Specialty referral centers have the most clinical and other specialty referral centers. Fig. 1 summarizes an
surgical experience with Charcot arthropathy patients. These integrated treatment strategy based on the available litera-
centers may be more “aggressive” in their surgical treatment ture, coupled with our experience at the comprehensive foot-
of Charcot arthropathy. Using benchmark analysis to and-ankle center.
measure morbidity and resource consumption, Pinzur Certain Charcot arthropathy patients requiring surgery
(1999) justified the use of aggressive therapies to reduce may have bony prominences without other major deformities
the costs and complications associated with this high-risk that require only simple exostectomy (Brodsky, 2007). The
patient population. This may include a more intensive exostectomy technique has been used successfully in many
offloading regimen or even “early” surgical intervention in studies of surgical treatment in Charcot midfoot deformity
order to reduce the morbidity associated with this disease and ulceration (Brodsky & Rouse, 1993; Catanzariti,
(Saltzman et al., 2005; Simon, Tejwani, Wilson, Santner, & Mendicino, & Haverstock, 2000; Laurinaviciene, Kirke-
Denniston, 2000). terp-Moeller, & Holstein, 2008; Myerson et al., 1994; Pinzur
The decision to proceed with surgery should never be et al., 1993; Rosenblum, Giurini, Miller, Chrzan, &
taken lightly even if the patient has one or more indications Habershaw, 1997). One recent case series of 20 patients
for surgical intervention. Surgical reconstruction of the reported that exostectomy procedures were effective and safe
deformed foot and ankle has historically been recommended for treating Charcot midfoot deformities and ulcerations
after all nonoperative measures to prevent further breakdown (Laurinaviciene et al., 2008). Their results were comparable
had been exhausted (Pinzur et al., 1993). This is due to the to those of previous studies in terms of exostectomy success.
perceived greater risk of potential malunion and complica- Although there are no controlled studies utilizing this
tions of surgery in patients with Charcot arthropathy. During technique, there is a fair amount of evidence to support the
the acute inflammation and destruction stage, optimal use of exostectomy for Charcot midfoot deformity and/or
fixation can be difficult to achieve, thus discouraging ulceration treatment.
surgeons from operating during Eichenholtz Stage 1. If exostectomies fail to prevent recurring ulcerations and
Simon et al. (2000) reported their results of surgical if the deformity is unstable, realignment arthrodesis may be
management of acute midfoot Charcot arthropathy (Eichen- used to stabilize the foot and ankle (Zgonis, Roukis, &
holtz Stage 1 or early Stage 2). All 14 patients were treated Lamm, 2007). The forefoot and midfoot prominences may
with adequate anatomical reduction and primary arthrodesis, develop from hindfoot influences such as subtalar or ankle
and all achieved a successful clinical outcome. There are joint valgus instability. The literature regarding arthrodesis in
other case series involving arthrodesis for limb salvage that Charcot arthropathy provides fair evidence to support its use.
have resulted in relatively successful results; however, these As the potential for major complications is higher for
studies involved relatively few patients and arthrodesis of Charcot deformity in the hindfoot and ankle because of
different anatomical sites of the foot and ankle (Bono, Roger, greater instability (Brink, Eickmeier, Levitsky, & Solomon,
& Jacobs, 1993; Papa, Myerson, & Girard, 1993; Tisdel, 1994; Papa et al., 1993), there is a trend toward the use of
ARTICLE IN PRESS
D.K. Wukich, W. Sung / Journal of Diabetes and Its Complications xx (2008) xxx–xxx 13
supplemental fixation to increase stability at the surgical site. months after the procedure (Mueller, Sinacore, Hastings,
However, there is insufficient medical evidence to support Strube, & Johnson, 2003). This is supported by studies on
one form of fixation (i.e., internal vs. external) over another. the beneficial biomechanical effect of Achilles tendon
Because the role of ankle equinus may determine the lengthening that have been published in various medical
severity of Charcot deformity, most surgical reconstructions journals; however, it appears that the same authors may be
are performed with concomitant lengthening of the Achilles reporting the same results and the same patient data in these
tendon or gastrocnemius muscle (Burns & Wukich, 2008). studies (Hastings et al., 2000; Maluf et al., 2004; Mueller
Achilles tendon contracture has been examined as a factor et al., 2004; Salsich et al., 2005).
leading to midfoot collapse in Charcot arthropathy due to Catanzariti et al. (2000) used adjunctive Achilles tendon
lack of adequate dorsiflexion of the foot (Armstrong & lengthening with ostectomies in 9 of 10 Charcot arthropathy
Lavery, 1998; Mueller et al., 2004). In order to decrease patients with lateral midfoot ulcers, but only 38% healed
pressure on the midfoot and forefoot, lengthening procedures primarily. They also found a 92% primary healing rate with
of the Achilles tendon have been performed to decrease its medial midfoot ulcers. Mueller et al. (2003) randomized and
power and to provide more available dorsiflexion (Maluf, controlled an outcome comparison study of diabetic patients
Mueller, Strube, Engsberg, & Johnson, 2004). However, this with neuropathic ulcerations using TCC with and without
decrease in power and forefoot peak pressure has not been Achilles tendon lengthening. Their study, which also
shown to be permanent and may return to baseline several included patients with Charcot arthropathy midfoot
ARTICLE IN PRESS
14 D.K. Wukich, W. Sung / Journal of Diabetes and Its Complications xx (2008) xxx–xxx
deformity, found that those with Achilles tendon lengthening 5. Reducing the incidence of amputations and mortality
and TCC were 75% less likely to have ulcer recurrence at associated with this disease process.
7 months and 52% less likely to have ulcer recurrence at 6. Obtaining scientific evidence to identify those patients
2 years compared to the TCC-only group. Their recommen- who are most at risk, to facilitate prompt and early
dations were to consider using Achilles tendon lengthening diagnosis, and to initiate routine care.
as an adjunctive procedure for limited dorsiflexion of less
than 5° and plantar ulcerations at the forefoot of diabetic The current evidence for surgical intervention for Charcot
neuropathy patients. This adjunctive procedure, however, arthropathy includes the following:
must be done with caution and not indiscriminately, as
Achilles tendon lengthening has been shown to increase the • There is fair evidence for surgical excision of bones
risk for heel ulcerations (Holstein, Lohmann, Bitsch, & (exostectomy) to reduce pressure from bony promi-
Jorgensen, 2004). Mueller et al. also found in their study that nences. There are Level 4 studies with a consistency of
peak pressure on the heel increased by 34% and skin successful results (Grade C recommendation).
breakdown was noted in 4 of 31 patients in the Achilles • There is fair evidence for the arthrodesis of unstable
tendon lengthening group. Even in light of possible Charcot deformity of the foot and/or ankle as indicated
complications, there appears to be good evidence to support in patients who fail nonoperative treatment. There are
the use of adjunctive Achilles tendon lengthening for certain Level 4 studies with a consistency of successful results
Charcot arthropathy patients with neuropathic ulcers. (Grade C recommendation).
Postoperatively, patients should be immobilized until • There is not enough evidence available to determine
edema and erythema have resolved. Immobilization may be any advantage of internal fixation over external
necessary for 5–6 months, at which time patients can be fixation, and vice versa, in the surgical reconstruction
placed into braces or therapeutic shoes with custom inserts of Charcot deformities (insufficient data available to
(Trepman et al., 2005). Extended duration of bracing may be grade recommendation).
necessary especially in hindfoot and ankle reconstruction. It • There is good evidence to support the use of tendo-
is evident from long-term follow-up of reconstructive Achilles or gastrocnemius muscle lengthening to
Charcot surgical techniques that complications such as decrease forefoot pressure and to improve ankle
nonunions, malunions, or amputations can occur despite equinus. There is one Level I study and several Level
excellent surgical technique (Fabrin et al., 2000; Pinzur, III and IV studies with a consistency of successful
1999; Saltzman et al., 2005). Other postoperative complica- results (Grade B recommendation).
tions may include development of Charcot arthropathy in
adjacent joints, pseudoarthrosis, postoperative infection,
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C OPYRIGHT Ó 2008 BY T HE J OURNAL OF B ONE AND J OINT S URGERY, I NCORPORATED
ä Patients with diabetes mellitus have higher complication rates following both open and closed management of
ankle fractures.
ä Diabetic patients with neuropathy or vasculopathy have higher complication rates than both diabetic patients
without these comorbidities and nondiabetic patients.
ä Unstable ankle fractures in diabetic patients without neuropathy or vasculopathy are best treated with open
reduction and internal fixation with use of standard techniques.
ä Patients with neuropathy or vasculopathy are at increased risk for both soft-tissue and osseous complications,
including delayed union and nonunion. Careful soft-tissue management as well as stable, rigid internal fixation are
crucial to obtaining a good outcome.
ä Prolonged non-weight-bearing and subsequently protected weight-bearing are recommended following both op-
erative and nonoperative management of ankle fractures in patients with diabetes.
Ankle fractures are among the most common injuries treated by diabetes that pose a problem in the management of ankle frac-
orthopaedic surgeons, with an estimated 260,000 occurring per tures (impaired wound-healing, delayed fracture-healing, and
year in the United States1,2. With an ever-aging population, the neuropathy), the information in the literature as it relates to
number of ankle fractures continues to rise3. While protocols outcomes and complications following the management of these
for management of ankle fractures are generally well established, fractures in diabetics, and current evidence regarding the op-
treatment of these injuries in patients with diabetes mellitus timal management of ankle fractures in patients with diabetes.
poses a challenge for orthopaedists. These patients have unique A critical analysis of the existing evidence regarding the impact
characteristics, including delayed fracture-healing, impaired of diabetes on ankle fractures will lead to a better understanding
wound-healing, vasculopathy, and neuropathy, that all must be of this problem and the ability to make better decisions for
taken into account when formulating a treatment plan. patient management.
As the prevalence of diabetes mellitus has continued to
increase, so too has the number of ankle fractures seen in this Epidemiology of Diabetes
patient population. While much has been published on the im- According to statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and
pact of diabetes on the treatment of ankle fractures, the majority Prevention in 2005, 20.8 million people (7% of the population) in
of studies have included a small number of patients and have been the United States had diabetes mellitus4. In the population over
either retrospective reviews or case-control studies. In this review, the age of sixty years, 10.3 million (20.2% of the population)
we will report the impact of diabetes on the management of ankle were affected. Additionally, 1.5 million new cases of diabetes
fractures. Specifically, we will examine the epidemiology of dia- were diagnosed in 2005 alone4. The prevalence of diabetes in-
betes as it relates to ankle fractures, the specific characteristics of creased by 61% between 1990 and 2001, and it is estimated that
Disclosure: The authors did not receive any outside funding or grants in support of their research for or preparation of this work. Neither they nor a
member of their immediate families received payments or other benefits or a commitment or agreement to provide such benefits from a commercial
entity. No commercial entity paid or directed, or agreed to pay or direct, any benefits to any research fund, foundation, division, center, clinical practice,
or other charitable or nonprofit organization with which the authors, or a member of their immediate families, are affiliated or associated.
this number will further increase by 165% between 2000 and all diabetic patients over the age of sixty have some degree of
2050, with the fastest rates of increase occurring in older and peripheral neuropathy 13. The subgroup of patients with a loss of
minority subpopulations5. Overall, the estimated cost incurred protective sensation in the foot and ankle is at particular risk for
by the United States economy as a result of diabetes and its complications following an ankle fracture. In general, peripheral
complications is more than 100 billion dollars annually 6. Similar neuropathy must be profound prior to the loss of protective
increases in the prevalence of diabetes and its associated costs sensation. Once protective sensation is lost, the risk of foot
have been reported throughout the world7,8. ulcerations increases sevenfold because of the increased vul-
The authors of a recent study estimated the overall nerability to unrecognized trauma14,15. While the so-called gold
lifetime risk of diabetes developing in an individual born in the standard for diagnosing peripheral neuropathy remains nerve
United States in the year 2000 to be 32.5% for males and 38.5% conduction studies, the most commonly used instrument clin-
for females9. The highest rates were predicted to occur in the ically is the 10-g (5.07) nylon Semmes-Weinstein monofilament
Hispanic population (a 45.4% risk for males and a 52.5% risk test16-19. This simple test can identify persons at an increased risk
for females). The diagnosis of type-2 diabetes at the age of forty for foot ulceration with a sensitivity of up to 91% and a speci-
was predicted to be associated with a decreased life expectancy ficity of up to 86%20-22. Vibration testing with a 128-Hz tuning
of 11.6 life-years for males and 14.3 life-years for females. Ad- fork can also be used and may be an even more sensitive pre-
ditionally, the number of quality-adjusted life-years was pre- dictor of early neuropathy 16. It is important to identify neu-
dicted to be decreased by 18.6 for males and 22.0 for females. ropathy in all diabetic patients and particularly in those who
have sustained an ankle fracture.
Pathophysiology of Diabetes The severity of diabetic neuropathic complications is di-
Diabetes mellitus constitutes a heterogeneous group of metabolic rectly related to both the lack of control and the chronicity of
disorders that share the common manifestation of hyperglyce- abnormal glucose metabolism23. The importance of control is
mia. The diagnosis of diabetes is contingent on a fasting blood highlighted by the fact that a 1% reduction in the hemoglobin
glucose level of ‡126 mg/dL (‡7 mmol/L) measured on two A1C level results in approximately a 25% to 30% reduction in
separate occasions, random glucose levels of ‡200 mg/dL (‡11 the rate of complications10. Under normal glucose homeostasis,
mmol/L) with symptoms (polyuria, polydipsia, or unexplained the entry of glucose into the cell is tightly regulated by insulin.
weight loss), or a positive glucose challenge of ‡200 mg/dL10. However, in diabetic patients, insulin impairment leads to in-
Broadly, diabetes can be considered to present in two forms creased glucose levels in the bloodstream and subsequently to
(type 1 and type 2). Type-1 diabetes is caused by the autoim- increased diffusion of glucose into the cells. The end product of
mune destruction of insulin-producing b-cells in the islets of this is the formation of advanced glycosylation end products,
Langerhans in the pancreas. This leads to an absolute decrease in which are stable and irreversible. In red blood cells, these can be
the amount of circulating insulin. Circulating insulin is virtually measured as the hemoglobin A1C level, a marker of long-term
absent, and pancreatic b-cells fail to respond to normal insu- glucose control. Ultimately, the effects of hyperglycemia on
linogenic stimuli. Therefore, exogenous insulin must be ad- peripheral nerves are twofold, direct neuronal injury and mi-
ministered in order to maintain adequate glycemic control. crovascular damage.
Type-2 diabetes (formerly known as adult-onset diabetes) On a molecular level, cellular homeostasis relies on the
is characterized by increased peripheral insulin resistance com- tightly regulated use and production of certain reactive oxygen
bined with a secretory defect in insulin by the pancreatic b-cells. species (nitric oxide, hydrogen peroxide, and superoxide) that
Both components must be present for the clinical manifestation play crucial roles in the normal functioning of the cell. These
of diabetes. Overall, 90% of the cases of diabetes in the United processes are very sensitive to glycemic control. In the presence of
States are type 2, and 90% of these patients are clinically obese. excess glucose, the tight regulation of reactive oxygen species is
Regardless of the underlying cause of diabetes, the com- disrupted and excess reactive oxygen species are produced23,24.
mon manifestation is systemic hyperglycemia. In turn, this Within the nerve cells, the excess reactive oxygen species cause
leads to the glycosylation of proteins and the increased forma- direct injury to both cellular proteins and membrane lipids.
tion of intracellular sorbitol and other polyols. The end product Additionally, toxic peroxidation products accumulate and bind
is tissue damage in a number of end organs. Patients all show to normal cellular nuclear material, leading to increased apo-
some degree of immune dysfunction, peripheral neuropathy, ptosis, DNA damage, and decreased axonal transport. Hyper-
nephropathy, retinopathy, and arthropathy. glycemia also ultimately results in a decreased production of
neurotrophic factors that are responsible for the health and
Diabetic Neuropathy maintenance of normal nerve function25,26. On the vascular level,
Diabetic neuropathy profoundly impacts the management of chronic excess production of superoxide species leads to a loss of
ankle fractures. In the United States, 10% of diabetic patients normal nitric oxide function, resulting in vasoconstriction and
have some degree of neuropathy at the time of the initial diag- nerve ischemia.
nosis of the diabetes, and up to 40% will be diagnosed with
peripheral neuropathy within the first decade following that di- Charcot Arthropathy
agnosis1,11,12. In older patients, in whom ankle fractures are more Charcot arthropathy is defined as a noninfectious, destructive
common, neuropathy is even more prevalent. More than 50% of process culminating in eventual dislocation and periarticular
fracture in patients with peripheral neuropathy and the loss of dismissed as a sprain, contusion, cellulitis, gout, or deep vein
protective sensation27-29. While diabetes is the most common thrombosis.
cause of Charcot arthropathy today, it can potentially result The initial classification system described by Eichenholtz
from any clinical entity that renders a patient insensate to was based on clinical and radiographic data of patients with
protective sensation. Although Charcot arthropathy is relatively Charcot arthropathy 36. Stage I (development-fragmentation)
uncommon, the potentially serious complications following a refers to the initial, acute phase in which the cardinal signs of
delayed diagnosis of this condition make early detection ex- hyperemia, warmth, and swelling are present. Radiographically,
tremely important. As recent evidence has highlighted, a high a continuum of joint subluxation and dislocation, articular
index of suspicion and early intervention can potentially avoid erosions, and osseous destruction is observed. Stage II (coales-
some of the historically poor outcomes30. cence) is heralded by the resolution of the cardinal clinical signs
Charcot arthropathy was originally described in the 1860s and the transition from destruction to the reparative process.
by the neurologist Jean-Martin Charcot 28. The hypertrophic, Radiographically, sclerosis is present and, as the bones begin to
destructive neuroarthropathy that he initially described has coalesce, their inherent stability increases and the deformity
since been shown to occur in diabetic patients with peripheral ceases to rapidly progress. Stage III (reconstruction-consolidation)
neuropathy. The prevalence of Charcot arthropathy is esti- refers to the hypertrophic, remodeling phase in which tra-
mated to be approximately 0.3% among all diabetic patients, becular remodeling and the maturation of the osseous archi-
although it is thought that this may be an underestimate of its tecture into a stable, almost ankylosed state occur.
true burden31. The only symptom of diabetes that has been The Eichenholtz classification ignores the initial phase of
shown to be predictive of the potential for the development of inflammatory swelling in which the radiographic appearance
Charcot arthropathy is the loss of protective sensation32,33. remains normal or nearly normal. It is patients with this stage of
Two distinct theories have been postulated as potential the disease who are often initially dismissed as having a bruise or
causes of Charcot arthropathy: the neurotraumatic theory and strain, and unfortunately this is also the group that can most
the neurovascular theory 27. In reality, the cause is likely mul- likely be successfully treated if diagnosed early. Shibata et al. were,
tifactorial, and overlap between the theories is certainly feasi- to our knowledge, the first to describe Stage-0 neuroarthropathy
ble. The neurotraumatic theory postulates that an initial injury in their series of patients with leprosy 37. In 1995, Schon and
(either a single macrotraumatic event or repetitive micro- Marks referred to Stage 0 as occurring in patients with neu-
trauma) activates the process. The loss of protective sensation ropathy who sustain an acute fracture38. Chantelau et al. sub-
leads to continued weight-bearing by the patient and the lack sequently defined Stage-0 Charcot arthropathy as occurring in
of protective unloading. Eventually, there is a loss of structural the six to twelve-month period in which the clinical signs of
integrity, and finally a reparative process begins. The neuro- a Charcot foot develop without any abnormality seen on plain
vascular theory predicates a state of hyperemia resulting from radiographs39,40. Magnetic resonance imaging at this stage will
abnormal vasomotor control secondary to the underlying neu- show a pattern of bone-marrow edema consistent with osseous
ropathy. This leads to an increase in local blood flow and, stress injury. When diagnosed at this early stage, the Charcot
secondarily, to an increased level of osteoclast stimulation. foot can be managed with immobilization and non-weight-
Eventually, this results in increased bone turnover and a relative bearing and this can often successfully prevent the development
local osteopenia, which leaves the osseous architecture suscepti- of osseous destruction and deformity 39.
ble to minor trauma. This theory is supported by the fact that
local tissue samples from Charcot joints show an increased
osteoclast-to-osteoblast ratio mediated by a local cytokine path-
way 34. Recently, overexpression of RANKL (receptor activator of
nuclear factor kappa-B ligand) has been implicated as a mech-
anism for the development of Charcot arthropathy35.
The classic clinical description of an early Charcot foot
or ankle is one with painless erythema, warmth, and swelling
of the involved joints. Many patients still have some degree of
pain on initial presentation. Often, a patient with an acute
Charcot foot is initially misdiagnosed with an infection sec-
ondary to the erythematous, inflamed appearance of the foot.
However, these patients lack signs of systemic illness, such as
fever or elevated white blood-cell counts. Additionally, the
erythema will resolve rapidly with elevation of a Charcot foot
but not with elevation of an infected foot. In the absence of an
open, draining ulceration as a conduit for deep infection, in-
fection is unlikely to be the cause of the acute inflammation.
When observed prior to the development of osseous changes
on radiographs, these clinical symptoms are often initially
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The key role of the lateral malleolus in displaced fractures of the ankle
IG Yablon, FG Heller and L Shouse
J Bone Joint Surg Am. 1977;59:169-173.
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Publisher Information The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery
20 Pickering Street, Needham, MA 02492-3157
www.jbjs.org
The Key Role of the Lateral Malleolus in
Displaced Fractures of the Ankle*
BY ISADORE G. YABLON, M.D.t, FREDERICK G. HELLER, M.D.t, AND
LEROY SHOUSE, M.D.t, BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS
ABSTRACT: The reason why late degenerative ar- Materials and Methods
thritis developed in some patients who had sustained Laboratory Studies
displaced bimalleolar fractures of the ankle was inves-
Ankles from fresh cadavera were stripped of skin,
tigated. The roentgenograms indicated that incomplete
muscles, and tendons, and two heavy Kirschner wires
reduction of the lateral malleolus and a residual talar
were inserted transversely through the talus parallel to the
tilt were present. When bimalleolar fractures were
anklejoint. These wires were used to stabilize the foot and
created in cadavera the talus could be anatomically re-
to measure rotatory and sagittal displacements of the talus.
positioned only when the lateral malleolus was accu-
Four individual specimens were used for each set of exper-
rately reduced. Fifty-three patients with bimalleolar
iments and each maneuver was repeated five times. Four
fractures were treated by anatomically fixing the lat-
separate studies were done, to assess the effects on ankle
eral malleolus with a four-hole plate. There was an
stability after: (1 ) isolated division of the deltoid ligament,
anatomical reduction of the talus and medial malleolus
(2) isolated division of the fibular collateral ligaments, (3)
in each instance and there were no late cases of de-
transverse osteotomy of the medial malleolus at the level
generative arthritis when these patients were followed
of the joint with all ligaments intact, and (4) short oblique
for from six months to nine years. We concluded that
osteotomy of the lateral malleolus with all ligaments in-
the lateral malleolus is the key to the anatomical reduc-
tact. The amount of rotatory displacement was measured
tion of bimalleolar fractures, because the displacement
with a protractor and determined by the amount of rotation
of the talus faithfully followed that of the lateral mal-
of the Kirschner wires from the longitudinal axis of the
leolus.
tibia and fibula. Varus deformity was measured by noting
the angle between the tibial plafond and the wires. The
It has generally been accepted that reduction of the
final result was expressed as the mean of the values ob-
medial malleolus is of paramount importance in treating
tamed from each of the individual observations.
unstable bimalleolar fractures of the ankle 1,2 It is further
In a fifth series of experiments, after the pins had
usually believed that even if the lateral malleolus is intact
been inserted the medial malleolus was osteotomized at
stability of the ankle is lost when the medial malleolus is
the level of the joint line and an oblique osteotomy was
fractured, especially if the fracture is transverse and at the
performed on the lateral malleolus to simulate an external
level of the joint Most relevant. publications emphasized
rotation-abduction fracture. The ankle was placed in val-
that reduction of the medial malleolus should be anatomi-
gus and 30 degrees of external rotation to create the de-
cal and that once it is achieved there is complete reduc-
formities seen on the initial roentgenograms of such in-
tion of the displaced talus 4.5.8.10.12,16.19.22.25.26#{149} It was
juries. Manual reduction was then attempted by applying a
also stated that any residual talar displacement can
varus stress and internally rotating the ankle, as would be
be corrected by manually reducing the lateral malleolus
done clinically.
after the medial malleolus has been securely fixed in
place ‘ 1 In following patients who had sustained displaced Clinical Material
abduction-external rotation bimalleolar fractures of the
Fifty-three patients who had sustained abduction-
ankle, we became aware that a number of the patients had
external rotation injuries of the ankle were studied. There
late degenerative changes in the ankle. The arthritis had its
were thirty-one women and twenty-two men. The age
onset one to eight years after the injury. The present study
range was from nineteen to eighty-six years, with an aver-
was undertaken in an attempt to determine why this com-
age of thirty-four years. Open fractures were not included
plication occurred.
in this series. Forty-two patients had a bimalleolar fracture
* Read in part at the Annual Meeting ofThe American Academy of and eleven had a fracture of the lateral malleolus and a tear
Orthopaedic Surgeons, New Orleans, Louisiana, February 2, 1976.
t University Hospital, 75 East Newton Street, Boston, Ma.ssachu-
of the deltoid ligament, as evidenced by lateral talar shift.
setts 02118. This latter group was treated by open reduction and inter-
stability of the ankle resulted. Resection of the medial In the fifty-three patients in whom the lateral mal-
malleolus at the level of the joint line allowed about 10 de- leolus was accurately reduced and fixed with a four-hole
grees of rotatory displacement of the ankle but very little plate, postreduction roentgenograms revealed an anatomi-
valgus instability. When only the fibular collateral liga- cal reduction of the talus. In the seventeen patients who
ments were divided there was approximately 30 degrees of had primary fixation of the medial malleolus, fourteen (as
external rotatory instability and marked talar instability already mentioned) showed evidence of a residual talar
(Figs. 1-A and 1-B). Resecting the lateral malleolus pro- tilt. When the screw was removed and the lateral mal-
duced marked rotatory and valgus instability, and this in- leolus was anatomically reduced, the talus and medial mal-
creased as progressively greater force was applied. leolus were seen to be accurately repositioned (Figs. 2-A
When abduction-external rotation fractures were through 2-D). No instability was demonstrated on the
created and manual reduction was attempted by applying stress roentgenograms when the lateral malleolus was re-
varus stress and internally rotating the ankle, the talus duced and fixed with a four-hole plate (Figs. 3-C and 4-B).
There was no instance of periosteal or posterior tibial- One patient had a superficial skin slough over the plate,
tendon interposition preventing reduction of the medial but the wound did not become infected and closed by sec-
malleolus. There was no evidence of late degenerative ar- ondary intention. The total immobilization time averaged
thritis, the talus remained in its anatomical position, and ten weeks.
there were no cases of non-union. There were two infec- All patients experienced swelling of the ankle after
tions which were treated by closed suction-irrigation, and the cast was removed, but this resolved in an average of
the fractures eventually united after four and five months. three weeks. Seven patients still had mild asymptomatic
swelling. Forty-nine patients became ambulatory without ruptured or lax, and the paucity of communications ap-
support. Three patients had walked with a cane prior to the pearing in the literature describing late reconstruction of
accident and continued to do so after their fractures had the deltoid ligament may also correlate with these observa-
healed. Thirty-eight patients regained a full range of pain- tions. On the other hand, lateral ligament laxity is a well
less motion within six weeks after cast removal. Nine of established clinical entity and a number of effective surgi-
the remaining fifteen patients lacked 10 degrees of dor- cal techniques to restore ankle stability have been de-
siflexion one year postoperatively. Six patients lacked an scribed 7.13
average of 10 degrees of full plantar flexion: four were It was of interest to observe experimentally why
asymptomatic, but two continued to complain of pain on anatomical reduction of a displaced bimalleolar fracture
walking. Roentgenograms revealed demineralization of could not always be achieved manually. Impingement of
the tarsal bones suggestive of Sudeck’s atrophy. With the the lateral malleolus on the proximal fibular fragment pre-
exception of these two instances, all patients were able to vented the talus from resuming its anatomical position.
resume their normal preinjury activities.
Discussion
Secure fixation of the medial malleolus with a compres- ankle in such cases, but this stretches the fibular collateral
sion screw did not improve the displaced position of the ligament. When external immobilization is discontinued,
talus, and the talus could be anatomically reduced only by the lateral ligaments remain in a stretched position and
forced abduction and internal rotation of the ankle; but this slight to moderate talar instability, which predisposes to
occurred by stretching the lateral collateral ligament com- the development of late degenerative arthritis, may be the
plex. The lateral malleolus, however, still maintained its result.
displaced position. On discontinuation of the manual On the basis of these studies it would appear that the
force, the talus resumed its displaced position. lateral malleolus is the key to the anatomical reduction of
In reviewing our clinical material of other injuries to displaced bimalleolar fractures, and that restoring the in-
the ankle which involved talar displacement with fracture tegrity of the lateral malleolus establishes stability of the
only of the lateral malleolus or talofibular diastasis, not in- ankle 18.23 This does not necessarily lessen the importance
eluded in the series described, we found that in many in- of the medial malleolus in contributing congruity to the
stances the talus followed the lateral malleolus (Figs. 5 medial aspect of the ankle, but it does serve to emphasize
and 6). These observations strongly suggest that in un- that the lateral malleolus should no longer be ignored or
stable bimalleolar fractures, or those fractures in which the disregarded in the treatment of these injuries.
lateral malleolus is fractured and the deltoid ligament is There was no instance in our fifty-three cases in which
torn, the talus remains attached to the lateral malleolus. soft-tissue interposition prevented replacement of the me-
Reducing the medial malleolus alone may prevent anatom- dial malleolus when the lateral malleolus was reduced9.
ical repositioning of the talus, because in some cases the One can only assume that this complication is not as corn-
lateral malleolus cannot be accurately reduced when it im- mon as is generally believed. Perhaps the interposing tis-
pinges on the proximal fibular fragment. Repositioning of sues are replaced in their original sites by the talus as it
the talus can be achieved by forcibly internally rotating the resumes its anatomical position.
References
1. ASHHURST, A. P. C., and BROMER, R. S.: Classification and Mechanism of Fractures of Leg Bones Involving the Ankle. Arch. Surg.. 4: 51-
129. 1922.
2. BONNIN, J. G.: Injuries to the Ankle. London, Heineman, 1950.
3. BRAUNSTEIN. P. W., and WADE. P. A.: Treatment of Unstable Fractures of the Ankle. Ann. Surg. , 149: 217-226, 1959.
4. BURGESS, ERNEST: Fractures of the Ankle. J. Bone and Joint Surg., 26: 721-732, Oct. 1944.
5. BURWELL, H. N., and CHARNLEY, A. D.: The Treatment of Displaced Fractures at the Ankle by Rigid Internal Fixation and Early Joint Move-
ment. J. Bone and Joint Surg., 47-B: 634-660, Nov. 1965.
6. CEDELL, C-A.: Supination-Outward Rotation Injuries of the Ankle. A Clinical and Roentgenological Study with Special Reference to the Op-
erative Treatment. Acta Orthop. Scandinavica, Supplementum I 10. 1967.
7. CHRISMAN. 0. D. , and SNOOK. G. A.: Reconstruction of Lateral Ligament Tears of the Ankle. An Experimental Study and Clinical Evaluation
of Seven Patients Treated by a New Modification of the Elmslie Procedure. J. Bone and Joint Surg. , 51-A: 904-912, July 1969.
8. CONWELL, H. E., and REYNOLDS, F. C.: Key and Conwell’s Management of Fractures, Dislocations, and Sprains. Ed. 7. St. Louis, C. V.
Mosby. 1961.
9. COONRAD, R. W.. and BUGG. E. I., JR.: Trapping ofthe PosteriorTibialTendon and Interposition ofSoftTissue in Severe Fractures about the
Ankle Joint. J. Bone and Joint Surg. . 36-A: 744-750. July 1954.
10. Cox, F. J., and LAXON, W. W.: Fractures About the Ankle Joint. Am. J. Surg. , 83: 674-679, 1952.
11. CRENSHAW. W. H. [editor]: Campbell’s Operative Orthopedics. Ed. 5. St. Louis, C. V. Mosby, 1971.
12. DENHAM, R. A.: Internal Fixation for Unstable Ankle Fractures. J. Bone and Joint Surg., 46-B: 206-211, May 1964.
13. FREEMAN. M. A. R.: Treatment of Ruptures of the Lateral Ligament of the Ankle. J. Bone and Joint Surg., 47-B: 661-668, Nov. 1965.
14. lSEi.IN, MARC, and DE VELLIS. H.: La primaut#{233}du p#{233}ron#{233} dans les fractures du cou-de-pied. M#{233}m.Acad. chir.. 87: 399-408, 1961.
15. KLEIGER, BARNARD: The Treatment of Oblique Fractures of the Fibula. J. Bone and Joint Surg., 43-A: 969-979, Oct. 1961.
16. LEE, H. G.. and HORAN. T. B.: Internal Fixation in Injuries ofthe Ankle. Surg., Gynec. and Obstet.. 76: 593-599. 1943.
17. MAGNUSSON. RAGNAR: On the Late Results in Non-operated Cases of Malleolar Fractures. A Clinical-Roentgenological-Statistical Study. 1.
Fractures by External Rotation. Acta Chir. Scandinavica, Supplementum 84, 1944.
18. MULLER, M. E.; ALLGdWER, M.; and WILLENEGGER, H.: Manual ofinternal Fixation. Berlin, Springer, 1970.
19. PATRICK. JAMES: A Direct Approach to Trimalleolar Fractures. J. Bone and Joint Surg. , 47-B: 26-29, May 1965.
20. PHILLIps, R. S.; BALMER,G. A.; and MONK, C. J. E.: The ExternalRotation Fracture oftheFibular Malleolus. British J. Surg., 56: 801-806,
1969.
21. PICAUD, A.-J.: R#{233}fiexions a propos dun traitement chirurgical simple des fractures r#{233}centesde Ia cheville. Rev. chir. orthop.. 39: 570-580,
1953.
22. QUIGLEY, T. B.: Analysis and Treatment of Ankle Injuries Produced by Rotatory, Abduction, and Adduction Forces. In Instructional Course
Lectures. The American Academy ofOrthopaedic Surgeons. Vol. 19, pp. 172-182. St. Louis. C. V. Mosby. 1970.
23. SNEPPEN, 0.: Pseudoarthrosis ofthe Lateral Malleolus. Acta Orthop. Scandinavica, 42: 187-200, 1971.
24. SOLONEN. K. A.. and LAUTTAMUS. LEO: Operative Treatment of Ankle Fractures. Acta Orthop. Scandinavica, 39: 223-237, 1968.
25. STAPLES. 0. S.: Injuries to the Medial Ligaments of the Ankle. Result Study. J. Bone and Joint Surg.. 42-A: 1287-1307, Dec. 1960.
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Painful instability of the lesser metatarsophalangeal migration of the proximal phalanx. A hammer toe de-
joint has been recognized in both the orthopedic and formity may be found in association with the disor-
the podiatric literature as a common cause of meta- der, but is usually not an early or a significant com-
tarsalgia.1-6 The condition is typically described as a ponent. Unlike in the classic hammer toe deformity,
progressive, painful subluxation or dislocation of the a dorsal corn overlying the proximal interphalangeal
proximal phalangeal base on the metatarsal head joint is typically not observed (Fig. 1). Although any
that occurs as a result of weakening of the periarticu- lesser metatarsophalangeal joint can be affected, the
lar structures that stabilize the metatarsophalangeal second metatarsophalangeal joint is affected most
joint—in particular, the plantar plate. The subluxa- often.7, 8 Hallux valgus and first-ray insufficiency may
tion/dislocation process can be slow or rapidly pro- contribute to this problem but are not necessarily
gressive. Medial or, less commonly, lateral deviation precursors or prerequisites.1-6 A long second metatar-
of the digit may also occur and accompanies dorsal sal has also been implicated in the development of
this entity.1
*Diplomate, American Board of Podiatric Surgery; Fel-
low, American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons; Direc-
While pain about any lesser metatarsophalangeal
tor of Podiatric Medical Education and Residency Training, joint may be associated with several systemic and
St Vincent Charity Hospital, Cleveland, OH; Faculty Mem- local processes, the idea of idiopathic pain and insta-
ber, The Podiatry Institute, Tucker, GA. Mailing address: bility of the metatarsophalangeal joint is relatively
23823 Lorain Rd, Ste 280, North Olmstead, OH 44070. new.6, 9 The literature is replete with numerous terms
†Director of Externship Program, St Vincent Charity Hos-
pital, Cleveland, OH; private practice, Toledo, OH.
describing the components of lesser toe derangement.
‡Submitted during third-year podiatric surgical residency, The following terms, for example, are slightly modi-
St Vincent Charity Hospital, Cleveland, OH. fied from a list appearing in Miller10:
‡Adjunct Professor of Radiology, Ohio College of Podi-
atric Medicine, Cleveland; Clinical Professor of Radiology, ● Sub–metatarsal 2/neuroma syndrome
Ohio University, Athens; private practice, Cleveland, OH. ● Chronic lesser metatarsophalangeal dislocation
182 April 2002 • Vol 92 • No 4 • Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association
plain that they feel as if they are walking on a “stone
bruise” or “lump” on the bottom of the foot in spite
of the absence of any obvious plantar lesion. Patients
may also complain of swelling about the base of the
toe, more impressive plantarly than dorsally. Some
patients will note that the toe “feels as though it is
trying to go out of position,” and others may have
even noted a distinct change in position over the
course of several weeks. Rarely is a lesion present
over the dorsal aspect of the proximal interphalange-
al joint, although mild erythema may be present as a
result of shoe irritation of the knuckle pad. Tyloma
formation plantarly is rarely present.
Some patients mention a recent increase or change
in activity level prior to the development of symp-
toms.1 The current authors have seen this problem
develop following participation in such activities as
jogging, tennis, and basketball. In other cases, pa-
tients may recall a minor traumatic event, such as a
Figure 1. Classic hammer toe deformity of the second
misstep on a stair, hole, or protruding object such as
toe with chronic metatarsophalangeal joint subluxa- a garden hose or an electrical cord prior to the devel-
tion. Note the presence of a classic heloma durum opment of symptoms. In a number of cases, the se-
overlying the proximal interphalangeal joint, which is nior author (G.V.Y.) has encountered a history of a
not typically seen in patients with predislocation syn- misstep climbing up or down stairs or a ladder as an
drome.
inciting factor.
In later stages of predislocation syndrome, severe
pain may lead to an antalgic gait, with the patient
compensating by walking on the lateral aspect of the
● Floating toe syndrome
foot. Barefoot weightbearing often becomes intolera-
● Lesser metatarsophalangeal joint instability syn-
ble, especially on hard surfaces. The authors have
drome
found that secondary manifestations, such as lateral
● Second metatarsophalangeal joint dislocation/
column overload and calcaneocuboid joint syndrome,
subluxation
may occur, sometimes becoming as significant as the
● Monoarticular nontraumatic synovitis of the sec-
original chief presenting complaint. A constant lin-
ond metatarsophalangeal joint
gering or long-lasting throbbing sensation may also
● Crossover second-toe deformity
develop, regardless of weightbearing status.
● Second metatarsophalangeal joint instability
Frequently, the patient had sought treatment for
The authors, however, consider many of these to the problem in the past, often after being treated by a
be part of a distinct clinical entity, which they refer to variety of medical and surgical specialists to no avail.
as predislocation syndrome. Once a frank dislocation Treatments may have been either conservative or
occurs, more appropriate descriptive terminology surgical. It is not uncommon for the patient to have
should be employed. This article presents the natural received a diagnosis of second interspace or adjacent
history of predislocation syndrome and reviews the interspace neuromas in spite of the obvious absence
conservative and surgical treatment options available of the subjective complaints classically associated
for this disorder. with neuromas. Many patients will have undergone
neurectomy, some with revisional procedures under-
Clinical Presentation taken for the presumed recurrence of neuroma or
stump neuroma (Fig. 2). The failure of these various
Patients suffering from predislocation syndrome typ- treatments and continuing disability are very frustrat-
ically present with acute, subacute, or, less common- ing for patients and may give rise to anxiety about
ly, chronic focal pain at the plantar aspect of the in- their prognosis.6 Some patients may have been ac-
volved lesser metatarsophalangeal joint or joints. In cused of malingering or suspected of having a psy-
general, pain is most noticeable during ambulation chosomatic illness. A few patients or their spouses
and subsides during rest.11 Frequently, patients com- may even question whether they are imagining the
Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association • Vol 92 • No 4 • April 2002 183
examination, the focal point of tenderness is clearly
and distinctly the metatarsophalangeal joint area, not
the adjacent interspace. An intermetatarsal injection
of local anesthetic may be helpful when symptoms
are generalized or when the patient has difficulty pin-
pointing the target area of pain.
Active flexor and extensor tendon functions of the
affected toe are present with minimal or no compro-
mise. Palpation and range of motion of the metatar-
sophalangeal joint may elicit capsular crepitus or
mobility of a well-circumscribed, bursa-like projec-
tion. A painful decrease in range of motion of the
joint, particularly in plantarflexion, is often noted.13
Significant malposition is absent in the early stages;
however, the astute clinician readily notes subtle
changes in position over time. Not uncommonly, the
toe manifests a clear tendency toward dorsal migra-
tion (not necessarily dorsiflexion), with or without
transverse plane deviation toward or away from the
hallux (Fig. 3).
Figure 2. Foot of a 45-year-old patient who previously
underwent two neuroma resections from the second
In most cases, evaluation of weightbearing stance
interspace within a 3-month period. This patient sub- demonstrates subtle but obvious malalignment of the
sequently developed complete dislocation of the sec- involved digit. Loss of toe purchase, with or without
ond metatarsophalangeal joint. Note the persistent medial or lateral deviation, is typically present. If this
swelling of the second metatarsophalangeal joint and condition is left unchecked, the toe will continue to
toe. The patient denied having had the symptoms at-
tributable to a typical neuroma.
progressively subluxate dorsally, and when this oc-
curs, increased pain plantarly is predictable. Rarely,
a callus plantar to the metatarsal head or a corn over-
lying the proximal interphalangeal joint of the affect-
problem and feel as if they are acting like hypochon- ed toe (as is typically seen with the classic hammer
driacs. Some patients, out of desperation, will plead, toe deformity that has undergone chronic metatarso-
“Please tell me I’m not crazy!” Not uncommonly, this phalangeal joint subluxation/dislocation) is present
unfortunate chain of events results in significant de- on examination. These keratoses are due to friction
pression and anxiety, further complicating the clini- and shear of associated osseous structures and to
cal course of the complaint. loss of intrinsic muscle balance; they develop only
after long-standing dislocation of the toe.
Physical Examination Change in local topography is common and often
impressive (Fig. 4). Local edema and warmth result-
Specific and accurate pain localization during a phys- ing from inflammation about the metatarsophalangeal
ical examination is paramount for determining the joint are typically present; the increased temperature
structures affected. On physical examination of the may be measured with skin-surface thermometers
patient with predislocation syndrome, one finds ex- and recorded. Subtle edema may be indicated by the
cruciating pain on palpation just distal and plantar to obliteration of normal extensor tendon contours. In
the metatarsal head that is disproportionate to any most cases, the plantar edema is obvious, even pro-
other objective clinical findings. Focal pain in this found, and encompasses the entire metatarsophalan-
area is thought to result from bursitis or inflamma- geal joint area, frequently extending distally into the
tion of the plantar plate.12 Occasionally, inflammation sulcus and base of the toe or toes.
of an intermetatarsal bursa may cause local nerve ir- In the initial stages of predislocation syndrome,
ritation, resulting in neuritic or neuroma-type symp- the lesser metatarsophalangeal joint may be in good
toms. However, patients presenting with pain caused anatomical position without malalignment or con-
by inflammation of the plantar plate generally do not tracture. However, as the condition progresses and
have subjective complaints of numbness or shooting joint instability ensues, dorsal or transverse plane de-
pain or objective sensory deficits in the affected dig- viation develops, with subsequent loss of toe pur-
its on clinical examination.11 In addition, on physical chase. The stages of predislocation syndrome have
184 April 2002 • Vol 92 • No 4 • Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association
A B
Figure 3. Nonweightbearing (A) and weightbearing (B) views of a patient with predislocation syndrome of the right
second toe. Note the edema surrounding the metatarsophalangeal joint, obliteration of the extensor tendons to the
second digit, and the absence of a significant lesion over the proximal interphalangeal joint. Mild irritation is pres-
ent. Absence of toe purchase and medial deviation are seen on weightbearing.
been described by Yu and Judge6 and are based on tends into the toe. More pronounced deviation and
the clinical findings present at the time of examina- possible subluxation/dislocation of the toe are pres-
tion. In stage 1, there is mild edema plantar, and often ent. While the edema and inflammation eventually
dorsal, to the metatarsophalangeal joint. Extreme subside altogether, the deformity remains unchanged
tenderness is present when the joint is manipulated. or continues to progress. The end result can be a
No anatomical malalignment is noted clinically. In crossover second-toe deformity, with or without a
stage 2, there is moderate edema with noticeable de- concomitant hallux abducto valgus deformity.
viation of the affected digit both clinically and radio- Thompson and Hamilton5 have suggested the use
graphically. Often the patient does not realize that of a vertical stress test, akin to the anterior drawer
the affected toe does not purchase the ground. This sign in the unstable ankle joint, to identify and stage
becomes quite evident in stance evaluation. In stage sagittal plane metatarsophalangeal joint instability.
3, moderate edema is present about the entire cir- In this maneuver, the foot is placed in neutral posi-
cumference of the metatarsophalangeal joint and ex- tion, and the metatarsal head is stabilized between
the examiner’s thumb and index finger. The con-
tralateral hand is used to grip the dorsal and plantar
aspect of the corresponding proximal phalanx base.
The digit to be tested is manipulated upward with
vertical pressure applied by the thumb plantarly. A
purely vertical force is applied to the base of the
proximal phalanx in the dorsal direction. This is dif-
ferent from testing for dorsiflexion (Fig. 5). A posi-
tive vertical stress test result is present when the
proximal phalanx can be translocated 2 mm dorsally
above the metatarsal head. According to Thompson
and Hamilton’s classification scheme, in stage 0 there
is no dorsal translocation of the proximal phalanx. In
stage 1, the phalangeal base can undergo subluxation
dorsally but not dislocation. In stage 2, the pha-
langeal base can be dislocated but may be manually
reduced. In stage 3, the phalangeal base is in a fixed
Figure 4. Edema in a patient with predislocation syn- dislocated position. Accurate assessment of the
drome of the left third metatarsophalangeal joint. The
patient has a congenital syndactyly of the second and amount of dislocation of the base of the proximal
third digits, confusing the clinical presentation. Note phalanx on the metatarsal head may be quantified on
the absence of similar findings in the contralateral foot. a lateral x-ray.
Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association • Vol 92 • No 4 • April 2002 185
ond metatarsal (or a short first metatarsal) may alter
normal forefoot loading patterns by transferring load
from the first to the second metatarsal head (Fig. 6).
Hallux abducto valgus may also cause abnormal
forefoot loading patterns.2 Lateral deviation of the
hallux into the second digit may cause multiplanar
deviation of the second toe that results in retrograde
buckling at the second metatarsophalangeal joint
level on weightbearing. The use of high-heeled shoes
or heel lifts, which increase forefoot loading by main-
taining the metatarsophalangeal joints in a hyperex-
tended position, have also been implicated in the de-
velopment of predislocation syndrome in one or
more of the lesser digits.1
Figure 5. Positive vertical stress test result with dor- Biomechanical hypermobility may also predispose
sal translocation of the proximal phalanx. Note main-
tenance of the toe parallel to the plantar aspect of the a patient to altered forefoot loading patterns. Exces-
foot while this maneuver is performed. The examiner sive pronation will alter the axis of insertion of the
must be careful not to confuse dorsal translocation peroneus longus tendon in such a way that it loses its
with dorsiflexion. ability to stabilize the first ray during the forefoot-
loading phase of gait. 13 Accordingly, metatarsus
primus elevatus resulting from either biomechanical
dysfunction or structural deformity may cause exces-
A thorough history and physical examination are sive load transfer to the adjacent lesser metatarso-
required to rule out all systemic and local problems phalangeal joint or joints. Similarly, first-ray insuffi-
that may contribute to pain about the metatarsopha- ciency caused by generalized joint hypermobility
langeal joint. Degenerative joint disease, avascular syndromes, such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome or Mar-
necrosis, rheumatoid arthritis, fat pad atrophy, stress fan syndrome, may result in overload of one or more
fracture, neuromuscular dysfunction, and neuromas of the lesser metatarsophalangeal joints.14
are all common causes of lesser metatarsalgia.2, 12 The senior author has also witnessed numerous
Only after a detailed history and physical examina- cases of predislocation syndrome in patients who
tion and a radiographic evaluation can a primary di- had undergone surgical correction of hallux abducto
agnosis of predislocation syndrome be made (Table valgus deformity in which subtle, but discernible, ele-
1). Selective laboratory testing may be needed for vation of the first metatarsal head occurred (Fig. 7).
completeness. It is important to listen carefully to the In other cases, the initial presenting complaint was
patient’s subjective complaints, as these will often sub–metatarsal 2 discomfort attributed to an asymp-
provide sufficient information for the clinician to sus- tomatic hallux abducto valgus deformity. While
pect this entity as the cause of the patient’s pain, surgery for the hallux abducto valgus was unevent-
even prior to a physical examination of the area. ful, progressive dislocation of the second toe ensued.
Patient frustration in such cases is very high.
Pathomechanics Coughlin1 has identified two distinct populations
at risk for developing instability of the second meta-
The key developmental factor for idiopathic subluxa- tarsophalangeal joint: The first group consisted main-
tion/dislocation of the lesser toe is progressive in- ly of sedentary women aged 50 to 70 years, with an
flammation about the metatarsophalangeal joint with average age of 60 years. The high proportion of elder-
subsequent attenuation and rupture of the plantar ly women in this group was attributed to the preva-
plate and collateral ligaments.2, 5 Thus any structural lent use of high-heeled shoes in this population. The
or biomechanical deformity that increases loading second group consisted predominantly of athletic
forces within the forefoot and results in inflamma- men aged 25 to 64 years, with an average age of 50
tion of the plantar plate can predispose an individual years. A majority of this group were found to have a
to progressive weakening of the periarticular struc- long second metatarsal. Coughlin hypothesized that
tures and resultant joint instability. in the second group repetitive physical activity re-
A long second metatarsal is often cited as a com- sulted in inflammation about the second metatarso-
mon finding in individuals with instability of the sec- phalangeal joint that eventually resulted in a weaken-
ond metatarsophalangeal joint.8, 11 An elongated sec- ing of the periarticular structures that stabilize the
186 April 2002 • Vol 92 • No 4 • Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association
Table 1. Differentiating Predislocation Syndrome from Common Lesser Metatarsophalangeal Joint Problems
Predislocation Syndrome Other Common Problems
Stress Fracture
Pain localized to plantar metatarsophalangeal joint Pain at metatarsal shaft dorsally
Negative tuning fork test Tuning fork test elicits pain
X-rays nondiagnostic in early stages Conventional x-rays eventually diagnostic
Bone scan uptake at metatarsophalangeal joint Bone scan uptake in metatarsal shaft
Hammer Toe
Minor trauma or inciting event may be recalled No inciting event or trauma
Onset distinctly acute, subacute, or chronic Onset insidious over years
No digital contracture until late stage Contracture at proximal or distal interphalangeal joint
preceded pain
Positive vertical drawer test Negative vertical drawer test
Usually no lesions; occasional irritation of the dorsal Lesions frequently present: heloma durum at proximal
proximal interphalangeal joint interphalangeal joint and/or sub–metatarsal head tyloma
Neuroma
Plantar to metatarsophalangeal joint, often the second Classic third interspace
interspace
Neuritic symptoms absent Neuritic symptoms: tingling, cramping, burning, shooting pain
Moulder sign absent Positive Moulder sign: palpable click of soft-tissue mass
Subtle or obvious malalignment or malposition of the Toes usually have normal alignment and position
involved toes
May demonstrate significant inflammation of No edema present
metatarsophalangeal joint and toe, especially plantarly
A B
Figure 6. Anteroposterior (A) and lateral (B) radiographs of a patient who developed sudden dislocation of the
second metatarsophalangeal joint following a period of severe pain and inflammation of the plantar aspect of the
joint. Note the slightly elongated second metatarsal segment as a possible contributing factor and the presence of
a hallux abducto valgus deformity.
Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association • Vol 92 • No 4 • April 2002 187
A B
Figure 7. Anteroposterior (A) and lateral (B) radiographs demonstrating dorsal dislocation of the second toe following
a distal metaphyseal osteotomy for correction of a hallux abducto valgus deformity. The patient’s initial complaint was
pain beneath the second metatarsal segment. An arthroplasty procedure was performed. Owing to persistent symp-
toms, the patient received multiple injections of steroid and local anesthetic, which resulted in acceleration of the de-
formity and a steroid-induced avascular necrosis of the third proximal phalangeal base. Note the development of a
stress fracture of the second metatarsal and the shortening and elevation of the first metatarsal segment.
toe. The authors believe that both structural alter- also serves as an insertion for both the interosseous
ation and biomechanical dysfunction of the first ray and the lumbrical tendons. Inferiorly, the plantar
can contribute to the development of this entity at plate has a smooth grooved surface for the passage
the second metatarsophalangeal joint. The condition of the flexor tendons.
can, however, occur in the absence of either of these An anatomical dissection by Johnston et al 15
predisposing factors. demonstrated that the plantar plate of the foot is sim-
ilar in both form and function to the volar plate of
Role of the Plantar Plate in the hand. However, those authors noted that the
Predislocation Syndrome plantar plate is larger and thicker than the volar plate
and has a weaker proximal attachment. Deland et al16
Stability of the lesser metatarsophalangeal joint is also performed an in-depth anatomical dissection of
derived from the plantar plate, the collateral liga- the plantar plate and outlined several possible func-
ments, and the intrinsic and extrinsic foot muscula- tions of the structure. First, the plantar plate merges
ture.15-17 Static stabilization of the metatarsophalan- with the plantar fascia distally and is an integral part
geal joint is derived primarily from the plantar plate of the windlass mechanism. Second, its fibrocarti-
and collateral ligaments. The plantar plate is de- laginous structure helps to absorb compressive loads
scribed as a fibrocartilaginous thickening of the acting on the metatarsal head. Finally, its central posi-
metatarsophalangeal joint capsule plantarly that is tion and multiple attachments act to stabilize the less-
firmly attached to the base of the proximal phalanx er metatarsophalangeal joint in the plantar direction.
but only loosely attached to the metatarsal head.15 It Through mechanical testing, Bhatia et al17 found
is composed of type I collagen that is histologically the plantar plate to be the main stabilizing force of
identical to the collagen present in the meniscus of the metatarsophalangeal joint. The study concluded
the knee.16 The plantar plate acts as the major distal that the metatarsophalangeal joint collateral liga-
attachment of the plantar fascia and has attachments ments, which have an insertion into the plantar plate,
to the deep transverse metatarsal ligament and are the second most powerful structures that stabi-
metatarsophalangeal joint collateral ligaments. It lize the metatarsophalangeal joint. Deland and Sung18
188 April 2002 • Vol 92 • No 4 • Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association
performed an anatomical dissection of a medial cross- metatarsophalangeal joint in the plantarflexed posi-
over second toe in a cadaveric specimen in an attempt tion during weightbearing. However, like the interos-
to fully describe the underlying pathologic anatomy seous muscles, they too lose their ability to provide
found in the condition. The specimen exhibited rup- flexion of the metatarsophalangeal joint when the
ture of the lateral collateral ligaments, shortening of proximal phalanx is in a subluxated (dorsal) posi-
the medial collateral ligaments, attenuation of the tion.3 Thus, in chronic subluxation of the metatarso-
plantar plate, and dorsal medial displacement of both phalangeal joint, the long and short flexor, interosse-
the flexor tendons and the plantar plate. ous, and lumbrical muscles provide no dynamic
While static stabilization of the metatarsophalan- restraint to dorsal dislocation of the toe.
geal joint is primarily the function of the plantar The second toe is anatomically unique, having in-
plate, dynamic stabilization is provided by the extrin- sertions of two dorsal interosseous tendons but no
sic and intrinsic musculature of the foot. It should be plantar interosseous tendon. The lumbrical tendon
noted, however, that the ability of the intrinsic and has a medial insertion and provides a slight medial
extrinsic foot musculature to stabilize this joint is de- pull in the second toe. With chronic inflammation
pendent largely on the integrity of the plantar plate. about the metatarsophalangeal joint, progressive
When the metatarsophalangeal joint is in a flexed or dorsal subluxation of the second toe ensues as the
neutral position, the extensor digitorum longus and plantar plate and collateral ligaments fail in static
extensor digitorum brevis tendons act to dorsiflex stabilization of the joint. As a result of the dorsal po-
the metatarsophalangeal joint through their insertion sition of the toe, the normal axes of the intrinsic mus-
into the extensor hood apparatus.19 However, with cles are lost, rendering them incapable of dynamical-
rupture of the plantar plate, the proximal phalanx as- ly stabilizing the joint. The extensor digitorum longus
sumes a subluxated (dorsal) position, and the exten- and lumbrical muscles subsequently become a de-
sor tendons are mechanically unable to extend the forming force, contributing to dorsal medial disloca-
proximal and distal interphalangeal joints. When the tion of the toe.
metatarsophalangeal joint is maintained in a sublux- Further explanation for a dorsal medial disloca-
ated (dorsal) position for a prolonged period, the ex- tion following failure of the plantar plate has been
tensor digitorum longus becomes a deforming force provided by Hatch and Burns,23 who performed an
at the metatarsophalangeal joint and results in pro- anatomical dissection of seven cadaveric specimens
gressive dorsal subluxation and frank dislocation of exhibiting a crossover second-toe deformity. The au-
the toe.2 thors found that four of the seven specimens demon-
The flexor digitorum longus and brevis tendons strated an accessory medial slip of the extensor digi-
provide flexion at the proximal and distal interpha- torum brevis tendon to the second toe and believed
langeal joints, but are relatively inefficient flexors of that this accessory tendon was a contributing factor
the metatarsophalangeal joint.3 In a weightbearing sit- in the etiology of the crossover second-toe deformi-
uation, these muscles act to stabilize the toes against ty. The current authors have not found this anatomi-
the ground and, in doing so, may cause slight dorsi- cal variant in several cases of predislocation syn-
flexion of the metatarsophalangeal joint.19 The flexor drome that have undergone surgical correction.
tendons are therefore unable to aid in stabilization of Anatomically, it is easy to understand why dorsal
the dorsally subluxated toe. medial dislocations are most common at the second
Under normal circumstances, the interosseous metatarsophalangeal joint. However, dorsal medial
muscles provide most of the flexion that occurs at dislocations are also more common than dorsal later-
the lesser metatarsophalangeal joints.20 However, al dislocations at the other lesser metatarsophalange-
with dorsal subluxation of the metatarsophalangeal al joints. The rationale behind this observation is not
joint, the interosseous tendons migrate dorsal to the easily understood, as the other lesser metatarsophalan-
axis of the metatarsophalangeal joint and subse- geal joints have both dorsal and plantar interosseous
quently lose their mechanical ability to provide flex- tendon insertions that directly oppose one another in
ion of the joint.21 The lumbrical muscles also play an the transverse plane. Subluxation and dislocation of
important role in the dynamic stability of the lesser the lesser toe at the level of the lesser metatarsopha-
metatarsophalangeal joint. These muscles arise from langeal joint, not attributable to the normal progres-
the long flexor tendons and insert into the medial as- sion of the classic hammer toe deformity, are still
pect of the extensor hood. According to an anatomi- somewhat of an enigma and continue to challenge
cal and functional study performed by Jarrett et al,22 physicians who treat foot and ankle problems. The
the interosseous muscles stabilize the interphalange- senior author has diagnosed and treated predisloca-
al joints in the extended position and maintain the tion syndrome involving one or more of the following
Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association • Vol 92 • No 4 • April 2002 189
digits: second, third, and fourth (Fig. 8). While dorsal dysfunction. Weightbearing lateral or oblique radio-
subluxation is seen in all of them, the medial or later- graphs clearly indicate dorsal subluxation of the
al deviation is a peculiar finding not well understood. proximal phalanx upon the metatarsal head as the
The authors suggest that an underlying structural condition progresses. Weightbearing anteroposterior
metatarsus adductus deformity may influence the radiographs will demonstrate dorsal as well as trans-
type of transverse plane deformity that develops. verse deviation of the affected toe. The normal clear
space of the lesser metatarsophalangeal joint is 2 to 3
Diagnostic Modalities mm, and the joint surfaces should be congruent.2
When dorsal subluxation or dislocation is present,
Several imaging modalities are available to assess in- the clear space is obliterated as the concave base of
stability of the lesser metatarsophalangeal joint, al- the proximal phalanx migrates dorsally over the con-
though rarely is extensive or expensive imaging re- vex metatarsal head. Incongruency of the joint space
quired. When there is clinical evidence of subluxation is noticed as the digit deviates in the sagittal and
or dislocation, standard radiography is the most transverse planes. The anteroposterior radiograph
practical diagnostic modality and is essential in rul- will also demonstrate any abnormal metatarsal
ing out local or systemic pathologies that contribute length patterns that might contribute to the develop-
to lesser metatarsophalangeal joint instability and ment and progression of this deformity. Cortical hy-
A B
190 April 2002 • Vol 92 • No 4 • Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association
pertrophy of the affected metatarsal shaft may be sophalangeal joints obtained parallel to the second
present and is believed to be indicative of abnormal through fifth metatarsal heads. The oblique axial se-
forefoot loading.1 However, the authors have not quence is aligned to the dorsal surface of the foot
found this to be a consistent finding. Finally, a radio- with a lateral down-sloping orientation. To obtain the
graphic vertical stress test may also be used to sup- scan, merely instruct the technologists to perform a
port the clinical findings of sagittal plane instability. STIR sequence in the plane defined by laying their
More advanced imaging modalities may be war- hand on the dorsum of the forefoot region. This com-
ranted when there is no clear clinical or radiographic bination of pulse sequences provides a simple yet de-
evidence of instability. An arthrogram with 0.5 to 1 tailed evaluation of the metatarsophalangeal joints
mL of iodinated contrast material injected dorsally and their associated capsuloligamentous complexes,
into the metatarsophalangeal joint under fluoroscopy including the plantar plate.
may be used to evaluate the integrity of the metatar- The plantar plate and its associated structures are
sophalangeal joint capsule.24 Rupture of the metatar- best visualized on T1 and gradient echo image se-
sophalangeal joint capsule is demonstrated by opaci- quences.25 In T1-weighted images, the plantar plate is
fication of the flexor tendon sheath while leakage of seen as a smooth, low-signal structure running be-
the contrast material outside the joint capsule into neath the metatarsal head and proximal phalangeal
the intermetatarsal bursa is indicative of collateral base. However, the plantar plate may be difficult to
ligament rupture.25 distinguish from the thicker, underlying flexor ten-
Although not typically used, a nuclear medicine dons on T1-weighted images. For this reason, it is
three-phase bone scan will show increased tracer up- helpful to obtain gradient echo images in which the
take at the metatarsophalangeal joint during all three plantar plate is slightly hyperintense relative to the
phases.6, 11 The first two phases are decidedly more flexor tendons.
intense than the delayed phase. This pattern strongly The MRI findings of plantar plate rupture have
suggests a local inflammatory process, rather than an been well documented by Yao et al.25, 26 A rupture of
osseous problem. Additionally, a conventional bone the plantar plate will demonstrate increased signal
scan may be helpful in identifying a stress fracture intensity within the plate with a loss of continuity.26
not identified on conventional radiographs. The pat- The area of rupture will be isointense with synovium
tern of uptake is different from that seen in patients and joint fluid and is typically located adjacent to the
with predislocation syndrome. A stress fracture metatarsal head (Fig. 9). Synovitis of the flexor ten-
would show increased uptake in all phases of the don sheath and distention of the metatarsophalange-
bone scan with the greatest uptake in the delayed al joint capsule are common associated findings in
phase (3 to 6 hours), which demonstrates a linear plantar plate rupture and, if present, are readily iden-
pattern within the shaft of the affected metatarsal. In tified on MRI.
contrast, the pattern of uptake in patients with pre-
dislocation syndrome is localized to the metatarso-
phalangeal joint area.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the mani-
festations of predislocation syndrome can be demon-
strated on high-field, as well as low-field, magnets.
This includes imaging on high-field superconducting
extremity images. However, adequate MRI visualiza-
tion demands a tailored approach. The necessary
pulse sequences include sagittal longitudinal relax-
ation time (sagittal T1), gradient echo transverse re-
laxation time (gradient echo T2), and short tau inver-
sion recovery (STIR) images and coronal T1 and
STIR images, as well as an oblique axial STIR se-
quence for imaging of the metatarsals and intrinsic
muscles of the forefoot.
The selection of pulse sequences is very impor-
tant. Sagittal images are obtained perpendicular to
the long axis of the metatarsals. Coronal images, Figure 9. Typical MRI findings of a patient with pre-
however, require alignment of the first and second dislocation syndrome involving the second and third
metatarsal heads, with imaging of the lesser metatar- metatarsophalangeal joints.
Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association • Vol 92 • No 4 • April 2002 191
Conservative Treatment pain-free ambulation are achieved; 2) a prolonged
course of taping may result in edema and possible ul-
The goal of conservative treatment for predislocation ceration of the digit.11 In short, it is simply not practi-
syndrome is to prevent progression of the deformity cal. Taping is, however, useful in helping to establish
and alleviate symptoms. Successful treatment is most the diagnosis of predislocation syndrome at the ini-
often accomplished with a combination of several tial office visit, provided that the metatarsophalange-
treatment modalities. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory al joint has undergone only deviation or subluxation,
drugs and corticosteroids have been a mainstay for not dislocation. Taping the toe in the correct position
the management of the pain and inflammation associ- often provides immediate relief of the patient’s symp-
ated with this disorder. While a tapered course of toms on weightbearing, confirming the diagnosis of
oral corticosteroids has been found to be safe and ef- predislocation syndrome.
fective, the same cannot be said about repeated Splinting may also be used to maintain proper ana-
intra-articular steroid injections. Dislocation of the tomical alignment of the digit. A metatarsal sling pad
toe following repeated intra-articular administration stabilizes the proximal phalanx in a plantar direction
of corticosteroids has been documented in the litera- at the metatarsophalangeal joint level by augmenting
ture.27 The senior author has witnessed this in sever- the function of the plantar plate and preventing hy-
al cases where dislocation of the metatarsophalange- perextension or dorsal migration of the proximal
al joint was seemingly accentuated by the repeated phalanx. Accommodative padding may also be used
use of intra-articular steroid injection. to alleviate symptoms at the affected metatarsopha-
The adverse effects of corticosteroid injection di- langeal joint. A longitudinal metatarsal pad with a
rectly into periarticular structures have been record- lesser metatarsophalangeal joint cutout can be used
ed in the literature. In one study, a single injection of to effectively decrease the weightbearing stress on
methylprednisone (4 mg) deposited directly into liga- the metatarsal head. A metatarsal pad applied to the
mentous tissues destroyed fibrocytes and decreased foot or used in the shoe is also helpful, but far less ef-
the tensile strength of the tissues for as long as 1 fective than the metatarsal sling pad. It will offload
year.28 The physician must realize that such an injec- the metatarsal but is insufficient in providing direct
tion may weaken the already compromised plantar splinting of the toe in a plantar direction and fails to
plate. However, if intra-articular steroids are deemed prevent further dorsal migration and dislocation.
necessary, the smallest effective dose of a phosphate For patients who have received insufficient bene-
salt should be used. Generally accepted guidelines fit from taping and padding therapy or are not con-
recommend that any given joint be injected a maxi- sidered candidates for surgery, shoe modifications
mum of once every 1 to 3 months and no more than may relieve symptoms.3-5, 30 An extra-depth shoe to
two to three times within a 12-month period.29 A accommodate the digital deformity combined with a
number of factors will influence the frequency of in- rocker-bottom sole with steel shank to decrease
jections; these include the type of steroid, the quanti- propulsive forces on the affected metatarsophalange-
ty of the steroid, and the clinical entity being treated. al joint may be effective. A viable alternative option
The authors strongly discourage the indiscriminate, for treating this condition is an extra-depth shoe with
repeated use of intra-articular steroids for predislo- a metatarsal bar added to the sole.
cation syndrome. In the authors’ opinion, the use of The authors’ typical regimen for the conservative
acetate steroids is rarely, if ever, indicated for the treatment of predislocation syndrome consists of a
treatment of predislocation syndrome. If intra-articu- combination of oral steroids, nonsteroidal anti-in-
lar steroids are employed, splinting of the toe to flammatory drugs, and taping or padding. In cases of
maintain position and prevent progressive disloca- significant symptomatology associated with moder-
tion is strongly recommended. ate to severe inflammation, oral steroids have been
In addition to pharmacologic therapy, offloading very effective. The authors typically use a tapering
the metatarsophalangeal joint and supporting the toe dose (from 60 to 10 mg in 10-mg increments) of pred-
in a proper position are essential to successful treat- nisone, administered in twenty-one 10-mg tablets;
ment. Taping of the digit into a slightly overcorrected this regimen is extremely effective clinically and
rectus position can prevent pain and progression of quite cost-effective. This is followed by a course of
the deformity. It is believed that this course of treat- nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug therapy in con-
ment stabilizes the digit enough to allow fibrosis of junction with splinting. Additionally, the authors
the periarticular structures to occur. However, there often employ physical therapy and aggressive manip-
are two main drawbacks to taping of the digit: 1) ulation to stretch out the dorsally contracted tissues
Taping may take several months before stability and and decrease inflammation.
192 April 2002 • Vol 92 • No 4 • Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association
Crossover taping of the toe in proper position usu-
ally provides immediate relief of symptoms in the of-
fice (Fig. 10). The patient is permitted to be weight-
bearing and ambulate. If the patient is comfortable
with this taping, the diagnosis is confirmed. A meta-
tarsal sling pad fabricated from 1/8-inch adhesive
foam, moleskin, and tube gauze has been very effec-
tive for this condition and is worn for weeks to
months until the toe stabilizes or is corrected surgi-
cally (Fig. 11). Felt should not be used to fabricate
these pads because its bulkiness aggravates plantar
discomfort and usually makes it difficult for the pads
to fit into normal shoes. Foam does not seem to pose
this problem. Prefabricated pads are commercially
available for single-, double-, or triple-digit control. Figure 11. Metatarsal pad to maintain digital position
when metatarsophalangeal joint dislocation has not
Where the toe deviates in more than one plane, it can yet occurred is shown along with the materials used
be splinted to the adjacent toe with a multidigit pad to fabricate it. The materials are 1/8-inch foam, mole-
by securing the digital straps to one another. skin, and tube gauze. Prefabricated pads are readily
Varying degrees of success have been reported available.
with conservative treatment of lesser metatarsopha-
langeal joint instability. Mizel and Michelson4 treated
patients with a combination of a single intracapsular matory medications and extra-depth shoes with a
steroid injection and a laced shoe with a steel shank metatarsal support. Only one patient responded posi-
added to the outer sole. They reported a 70% success tively to this course of treatment; the remainder pro-
rate with this treatment regimen for a 75-month fol- gressed to surgical correction of the deformity. Cough-
low-up period. Trepman and Yeo30 also used a single lin1 treated a group of ten athletes with taping for a
intra-articular steriod injection and a rocker-sole period of 3 to 6 months combined with a reduction in
shoe modification to treat lesser metatarsophalange- activity level. Three of the ten patients responded
al joint synovitis. That study included 15 joints in 13 well to this treatment, and six of the remaining seven
patients with no known history of rheumatologic patients progressed to surgery.
conditions. At follow-up evaluation, an average of 18 One weakness of these studies is the lack of cor-
months later, nine joints (60%) were asymptomatic, relation of the stage of the deformity with the clinical
five joints (33%) were improved, and one joint (7%) outcome of conservative treatment. In the Coughlin
had progressed to surgery. Mann and Mizel9 treated a study, all of the patients already had a positive verti-
group of seven patients with nonsteroidal anti-inflam- cal stress test result, and eight of the ten patients had
either transverse or sagittal plane deviation at the
time of initial presentation. It would seem likely that
the number of patients requiring surgical correction
would be lower if the disorder was identified and
treated prior to obvious or frank subluxation. None-
theless, the literature bears out that conservative treat-
ment will only prevent progression of the deformity
and does not permit realignment of the digit once sig-
nificant malalignment or instability has occurred.
In the authors’ experience, significant alleviation
of symptoms can be quickly achieved with conserva-
tive treatment; however, the complete resolution of
all symptoms is less predictable. Digital splinting and
pharmacologic management are used for several
months in most cases. Early discontinuation of
splinting is likely to result in progressive subluxation
and dislocation of the metatarsophalangeal joint. As
Figure 10. Crossover tape used as a diagnostic tool this occurs, secondary contracture of the extensor
to evaluate and assess predislocation syndrome. digitorum longus tendon develops along with dorsal
Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association • Vol 92 • No 4 • April 2002 193
contracture of the metatarsophalangeal joint cap- Numerous authors have advocated other soft-tis-
sule. Once flexibility and reducibility of the deformi- sue procedures to correct subluxation or dislocation
ty are lost, surgical intervention becomes the logical of the lesser metatarsophalangeal joint. Ruch31 has
next treatment. described two different procedures in which the ex-
tensor digitorum brevis tendon is transferred to re-
Surgical Management establish muscle-tendon balance at the lesser metatar-
sophalangeal joint. Girdlestone35 is often credited as
In light of the frequent failure of conservative treat- being one of the first to advocate reduction of the
ment in dealing with subluxation/dislocation of the dislocated metatarsophalangeal joint by splitting the
lesser metatarsophalangeal joint, numerous surgical long flexor tendon and transferring it to the dorsum
procedures have been advocated to correct the de- of the proximal phalanx. Later, Kuwada and Dock-
formity.2, 3, 9, 31-37 While there is great divergence in the ery38 popularized the transfer of the long flexor ten-
strategies employed to correct the deformity, the don to the dorsal aspect of the proximal phalanx
basic goal of all of the procedures is release of peri- through a drill hole in the neck of the proximal pha-
articular contractures and decompression of the lanx. A recent modification of that procedure places
metatarsophalangeal joint to reestablish alignment of the drill hole in the base of the proximal phalanx.39
the digit. Surgical treatment should focus on restora- The benefits of this modification include better re-
tion of plantar plate function and release of the dor- duction of the dislocation owing to a more proximal
sally contracted structures. The design and extent of pull of the flexor tendon and the preservation of the
surgery will vary with the severity of the deformity ability to perform either a proximal interphalangeal
and the amount of time that has elapsed since the ini- joint arthroplasty or arthrodesis. The main drawback
tial diagnosis. of all flexor-to-extensor transfer procedures is the
Several authors have realized the importance of decreased dorsal range of motion at the metatarso-
the plantar plate and collateral ligaments in stabiliz- phalangeal joint that occurs postoperatively. This,
ing the metatarsophalangeal joint and have developed however, may also be construed as the main benefit
procedures to correct the deformity at this level. of the procedure, as the goal of treatment is to pre-
Some surgeons have chosen to correct this deformity vent dorsal migration and dislocation of the toe.
with direct primary repair of the plantar plate. A Some authors have used a combination of soft-tis-
plantar incisional approach is employed with direct sue and osseous procedures to correct the deformity.
visualization of the plantar plate. The attenuated or Daly and Johnson40 advocated resection of the bases
ruptured site is identified, and direct primary surgical of the second and third proximal phalanges with
repair is performed with or without concomitant subtotal webbing. They believed that subtotal web-
arthroplasty or arthrodesis of the proximal interpha- bing promoted digital stability that was lost as a re-
langeal joint and release of the dorsal contracted soft sult of the resection of the bases of the proximal pha-
tissue. langes. Coughlin and Mann11 have recommended
Ford et al33 have also advocated primary repair of relocation of the metatarsophalangeal joint by partial
the plantar plate to correct this deformity. Using a metatarsal head resection and release of the con-
biomechanical testing apparatus, they showed that tracted periarticular structures in severe cases of dis-
primary plantar plate repair is as effective as a flexor- location of the metatarsophalangeal joint. Cracchiolo
to-extensor tendon transfer in stabilizing the metatar- et al41 reported on 28 cases in which silicone implant
sophalangeal joint. However, the study concluded that arthroplasty was used to correct second metatarso-
performing both procedures together was more effec- phalangeal joint dislocation. They reported good re-
tive than performing either procedure individually. sults in 88% of patients presenting with multiple fore-
Deland et al32 noted the importance of the collat- foot deformities. The authors cited transfer lesions
eral ligaments in stabilizing the metatarsophalangeal as the most frequent complication of the procedure.
joint and proposed grafting of a partial thickness of Other osseous procedures that have been used in-
the interosseous tendon to reinforce the weakened clude oblique osteotomies of the head and neck of
collateral ligament. Although Deland et al only re- the metatarsal, with or without fixation. In a compar-
ported on the procedure as performed in cadaveric ison of the results of the Weil and Helal osteotomies
specimens, they stated that the benefits of this proce- in correcting dislocation of the lesser metatarsopha-
dure would include a good range of motion postoper- langeal joint, Trnka et al36 concluded that the Weil os-
atively, compared with a flexor-to-extensor tendon teotomy was far superior in maintaining the metatarso-
transfer, and the ability to control the transverse phalangeal joint in a corrected position and resulted
plane alignment of the digits. in fewer malunions. They suggest that this is because
194 April 2002 • Vol 92 • No 4 • Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association
the Weil procedure uses stable internal fixation while sophalangeal joint for 5 to 7 weeks, allowing for soft-
the Helal procedure allows the metatarsal head to tissue adaptation and stabilization of the metatarso-
“float” or “seek its own level” after osteotomy. Van- phalangeal joint.
deputte et al42 studied the use of the Weil osteotomy If instability of the metatarsophalangeal joint per-
for both intractable plantar keratosis and chronically sists following soft-tissue release, a flexor tendon
dislocated metatarsophalangeal joints. Of the 59 transfer employing the flexor digitorum longus (more
metatarsophalangeal joints involved in the study, 33 commonly) or the flexor digitorum brevis is strongly
were chronically dislocated. At follow-up at an aver- recommended (Fig. 14). Arthrodesis of the proximal
age of 30 months postoperatively, patients rated the interphalangeal joint alone, although helping to cre-
results as excellent or good in 32 of 37 feet (86%). ate a rigid beam effect of the toe, may not be suffi-
Two symptomatic transfer lesions occurred, and re- cient to prevent dorsal subluxation/dislocation of the
current dislocations occurred in 5 joints. Vandeputte phalangeal base.
et al concluded that the Weil osteotomy is simple and Several types of flexor digitorum longus tendon
efficient for the reduction of chronically dislocated transfers have been well described in the orthopedic
lesser metatarsophalangeal joints. and podiatric literature. Several modifications the
The current authors do not have experience with current authors employ are worthy of discussion. Re-
direct surgical repair of the plantar plate, but have in- gardless of the technique of actual transfer, the au-
stead chosen to approach this problem by means of thors routinely harvest the tendon at the level of the
various soft-tissue and osseous procedures. A dorsal proximal interphalangeal joint that is undergoing
incisional approach is employed. An arthrodesis of arthrodesis. The plantar tissue is incised at the base
the proximal interphalangeal joint is typically per- of the middle phalanx from the dorsal incision. A
formed. The dorsal soft-tissue release is done in a se- secondary plantar incision, although commonly
quential manner until complete release and reloca- used, is not necessary. The split flexor digitorum bre-
tion of the toe at the metatarsophalangeal joint are vis tendon is retracted medially and laterally, and the
achieved. An extensor hood release/recession is fol- flexor digitorum longus tendon identified. The ten-
lowed by a dorsal/medial/lateral metatarsophalangeal don is retracted into the wound, tagged, and tran-
joint capsule release. It is not uncommon for a signifi- sected at the level of the middle phalangeal base.
cant amount of synovitis to be present within the The tendon is transferred by means of one of sev-
joint. Debridement of this inflammatory tissue is per- eral techniques. The standard technique is to split the
formed as needed (Figs. 12 and 13). The toe is stabi- tendon and then transfer each of the two halves
lized with a Kirschner wire driven across the metatar- around the proximal phalanx and suture them to-
gether dorsally. Another technique is to suture the
end of the tendon distally, split it proximally, and
then simply pass it over the proximal phalangeal neck
area, creating a “check-rein” type of configuration.
Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association • Vol 92 • No 4 • April 2002 195
Figure 14. Traditional technique of flexor digitorum Figure 15. Modified technique of flexor digitorum
longus tendon transfer. Tendon has been harvested longus tendon transfer through a drill hole at the base
at the proximal interphalangeal joint level, split, and of the proximal phalanx. The tendon is sutured to the
brought around the diaphysis of the proximal phalanx. dorsal periosteum and extensor digitorum longus ten-
A simultaneous arthrodesis of the proximal interpha- don. Simultaneous fusion of the proximal interpha-
langeal joint will further facilitate plantar stabilization langeal joint can be performed. As shown here, the
of the digit via the flexor digitorum longus and flexor Kirschner wire is driven through the tendon and across
digitorum brevis. the metatarsophalangeal joint if desired.
The authors’ current recommendation is to pass at the metatarsophalangeal joint that is available for
the tendon from plantar to dorsal through a drill hole normal walking.
at the proximal metaphyseal–diaphyseal junction In more resistant and recalcitrant cases, an osteot-
and secure it to the dorsal periosteal tissues (Figs. 15 omy of the metatarsal for shortening or angular cor-
and 16). When the digit is stabilized with a Kirschner rection will be necessary. A variety of techniques can
wire, the wire is driven through the transferred flex- be performed depending on the need for, and extent
or digitorum longus tendon and across the lesser of, shortening versus angular correction of the meta-
metatarsophalangeal joint. It is important to impart a tarsal segment. A through-and-through oblique oste-
physiologic tension to the transferred tendon, as ex- otomy from dorsal distal to plantar proximal allows
cessive tightness can limit the amount of dorsiflexion for shortening as well as rotation if needed. Small
A B
Figure 16. Preoperative (A) and postoperative (B) clinical appearance of the patient in Figure 15 following correc-
tion of the hallux abducto valgus deformity as well as arthrodesis and flexor digitorum longus tendon transfer of
the second digit.
196 April 2002 • Vol 92 • No 4 • Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association
cortical screws are used to fixate the osteotomy. A lesser-toe metatarsophalangeal joint subluxation/dis-
shortening Z-osteotomy can also be employed. If location. The treatment of predislocation syndrome
only angular change of the metatarsal is needed in is dependent on the stage of the deformity. In early
the transverse plane, a small wedge osteotomy at the predislocation syndrome, conservative treatment
metatarsal base can be very effective; a rotational os- with anti-inflammatory medication, shoe modifica-
teotomy can also be employed. The authors generally tion, padding, and taping may be successful in pre-
reserve metatarsal osteotomy for the more severe venting progression of the deformity. In long-stand-
and fixed deformity where obvious structural defor- ing deformity of the lesser metatarsophalangeal joint,
mity (abnormal length or position) is present (Figs. surgical intervention is warranted when painful fixed
17 and 18). subluxation or dislocation is present and conserva-
tive treatment modalities have failed or when pro-
Conclusion longed conservative care is not desirable.
Instability of the lesser metatarsophalangeal joint is Acknowledgment. The Podiatry Institute and At-
becoming well recognized and accepted in podiatric lanta Slide Art Productions (Tucker, Georgia) for their
and orthopedic surgery. It is often the sequela of a assistance in the preparation of the photographs;
chronic inflammation resulting from increased and Michael Dujela, DPM, for his assistance with the
abnormal weightbearing stresses about the lesser
preparation of the manuscript.
metatarsophalangeal joint. The end result of this de-
rangement is attenuation or rupture of the plantar
plate, capsule, or collateral ligaments with subse- References
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Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association • Vol 92 • No 4 • April 2002 199