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Achilles tendon ruptures are fairly common injuries that are often unfortunately missed, leading to the development of chronic tendoachilles (TA) ruptures. Patients present with gait abnormalities and significant ankle plantarflexion weakness. Imaging modalities such as ultrasound (US) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are used to confirm the diagnosis and help in surgical planning. Most chronic TA ruptures require surgical management, with non-operative management being reserved for medically unfit patients due to generally poor outcomes. A multitude of surgical reconstruction options have been described in the literature, each with its benefits and disadvantages. Ultimately, the choice of surgical technique depends on the residual gap that is present following debridement of the scar tissue that forms a bridge between the ruptures ends of the Achilles tendon, graft availability and the treating surgeon's preference. Surgery results in an improvement in patient-reported outcomes, with the majority going back to their pre-injury level activities. However, surgery is also associated with a fair number of complications, the most common being wound healing problems, infections, neurological injury and deep vein thromboses for which patients need to be appropriately counselled for. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Relapsed, resistant, and untreated congenital talipes equinovarus poses significant challenges in view of functional outcome following conventional serial casting and soft tissue release procedures. The Ilizarov ring fixator here offers significant possibilities as an extended conservative treatment modality. The aim of the present study was to critically evaluate effectiveness of the Ilizarov ring fixator with regard to radiological, clinical, and functional outcomes, in the difficult clubfeet. The study was carried out on patients presenting with relapsed, resistant, or untreated congenital talipes equinovarus deformity, who underwent deformity correction using the Ilizarov ring fixator application. All patients were reviewed at 6 monthly intervals for over 3 years following fixator removal with an objective clinical, radiological, and functional assessment. Twenty-three patients with 30 clubfeet were enrolled in our study. The mean age was 8.3 ± 3.6 (range 4-17) years. The postoperative clinical, radiological, and functional scores showed statistically significant improvement among all patients when compared with the preoperative data. All 30 feet developed varying complications during treatment with pin track infections being the most common. However, they were managed while continuing the distraction correction process. The Ilizarov ring fixator is an effective and reliable solution for difficult and challenging clubfeet. However, one must be aware of a strict adherence to a bracing protocol to avoid recurrence of deformities. A regular periodical functional and clinical follow up must be ensured among these children for a favorable outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Untreated traumatic posterior dislocation of the elbow joint, 3 weeks or older, is defined as "neglected posterior dislocation of the elbow". Around 90% of these are of posterolateral type. These are much more common in the developing and underdeveloped countries. Patients presents with a deformed, stiff and painful elbow with difficulty to perform activities of daily living. The clinical picture looks quite similar to malunited supracondylar fracture of the elbow. Diagnosis is usually confirmed radiographically. CT and MRI scan give additional information and are recommended before embarking on surgery. Treatment is quite challenging due to the significant soft tissue contractures, ligamentous insufficiencies and fibrosis, with possible associated nerve injuries, myositis ossificans, non-compliant patients and the need for long-term postoperative physiotherapy. Goal of surgical treatment is to achieve a painless, stable and mobile elbow with a congruent joint space. We have reviewed the literature and present our view on the prognosis and recommended surgical technique to treat this condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Foreign body aspiration is an important cause of morbidity and mortality during childhood. • A foreign body in airways can be misdiagnosed and last for years, resulting in complications dramatically affecting the quality of life of the patient. • This paper overlights difficulties in diagnosis and management of a complex case of neglected bronchial foreign body, lasting for almost two decades in a young patient, in a very ressource-poor setting in Africa. • We describe the longest period of bronchial foreign body retention reported in the medical literature in Africa. Foreign body aspiration represents an important cause of morbidity and mortality during childhood. A neglected aspirated foreign body can last for years, leading to complications that are sometimes difficult to manage, dramatically affecting the quality of life of the patient. We report the case of a 29-year-old female who presented with eighteen-year history of recurrent cough, choking, and respiratory infections following a foreign body aspiration. The course was complicated by a chronic secondary lung abscess, successfully managed by combined medical and surgical treatment. In low-income countries like ours, foreign body aspiration is often misdiagnosed. The often delayed management due to low socioeconomic status can lead to serious complications. To the best of our knowledge, it is the longest period of bronchial foreign body retention reported in the medical literature in Africa. Foreign body aspiration is common in childhood and requires early recognition and treatment, in order to avoid complications that can be very serious or even fatal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-traumatic vertebral fractures occurring as a sole consequence of the violent muscle forces generated during the first episode of a GTCS(generalized tonic clonic seizure) in a previously healthy non-epileptic individual are very rare. Being clinically asymptomatic they are easily overseen at the time of initial presentation due to their rarity of occurrence and the presence of potentially distracting factors in the post-ictal phase. We present a 52-year-old healthy non-epileptic male who presented with unrelenting back pain and neurodeficit secondary to a four-month-old unstable burst fracture of the first lumbar vertebra sustained during an isolated single episode of a witnessed GTCS. A detailed inquiry revealed no history of a significant traumatic event either during the convulsive episode or thereafter. A meticulous history taking, a thorough clinical and neurological examination combined with a comprehensive radiological evaluation established the unusual etiology of the fracture and the presence of a thoracolumbar kyphotic deformity with compression of conus medullaris. A detailed neurological, and laboratory work-up, confirmed no attributable organic or metabolic cause for the seizure. His BMD(Bone Mineral Density) was normal. Patient was managed with posterior instrumented deformity correction by a posterior column shortening osteotomy, neural decompression and fusion of D12-L1 facets. Patient had complete neurological recovery with good clinical and functional outcomes at 28-months follow-up. A few cases of seizure-induced non-traumatic spinal fractures have been published in literature. A majority of these fractures occurred in individuals with either seizure-provoking risk factors (epileptics with recurrent seizures, brain tumors, drug overdose/withdrawal, metabolic disorders, or electrolyte imbalance) or in those with an increased susceptibility to fracture due to decreased BMD. This case demonstrates the rare occurrence of a non-traumatic vertebral fracture during the first episode of a GTCS in an otherwise healthy non-epileptic individual with normal BMD and no seizure-provoking risk factors. This is the first case report of a delayed unrelated presentation of a non-traumatic lumbar vertebral fracture with complications (spinal deformity and neurodeficit) consequent to a remote episode of a single convulsive seizure. It emphasizes the need for a high index of clinical suspicion,a meticulous history taking, thorough musculoskeletal and neurological examination in any individual presenting with a seemingly benign back pain following a remote isolated episode of seizure, even in the absence of overt trauma. A detailed radiological evaluation guided by a meticulous history taking and detailed clinical examination is essential to rule out a fracture unless proven otherwise. It also shows that a single convulsive seizure can result in a potentially unstable fracture that when neglected, can result in devastating complications like spinal deformity and neurodeficit. Level IV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extensor mechanism deficiency in the knee may occur due to neglected patellar and quadriceps tendons rupture or may be caused by chronic fractures of the patella. Older patients can tolerate nonunion with impaired function including extension limitation or persistent muscle weakness. In young patients, performing rigid internal fixation with reoperation should be considered when a nonunion occurs. However, delayed and neglected nonunion in patella fractures require performing different surgical procedures. We report two cases, operated for a patella fracture, in whom nonunion occurred and accompanied by patellar migration and retraction of quadriceps tendon because of a fixation failure. We reconstructed the extensor mechanism with peroneus longus tendon autograft and, owing to this method, we achieved excellent functional results during a 2-year follow-up period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Thoracic spinal psammomatous meningioma is a rare subtype of meningioma often present with pain, sensory-motor deficit, and sphincter disturbance. • Neglected spinal cord compression can result in a permanent neurological deficit. • Surgical resection of the tumor relieved the spinal cord in a neglected case. • The severe preoperative neurological deficit as a predictor of a poor prognosis. • The neurological function after surgery hardly returns to the functional stage in a neglected case. Thoracic spinal psammomatous meningioma is a rare subtype of meningioma. Surgery is the definitive treatment for symptomatic spinal meningiomas and offers a substantial possibility for complete resection and cure. A 42-year-old female complaining of back pain for one year and progressive weakness and numbness of both lower limbs with urinary incontinence and constipation for two months. Magnetic resonance imaging showed an intramedullary spinal mass at D3-D4 level. The patient underwent laminectomy at D3-D5 level, revealing dural bulge. A midline durotomy performed. Intraoperative findings showed firmed, greyish to white and moderately vascular mass. A clear margin was identifiable between cord and tumor. Simpson grade 3 resection was performed. Pedicle screw and rod was placed for posterior stabilization. Histopathological examination demonstrated a psammomatous spinal meningioma. Despite the pain and the sensory sensation was improved, the motoric and autonomic function still showed no significant improvement in the early postoperative period. The preferred approach or procedure must be tailored case by case based on preoperative surgical grading of the tumor and its associated factors. Meanwhile, the prognosis for recovery depends mainly on two factors: the severity of the neurological deficit and the duration of the deficit before decompression. Surgical resection of the tumor may relieve the spinal cord compression in a neglected case. Even though the neurologic function after surgery rarely returns to the functional stage due to chronic neural tissue damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, both in developed as well as in developing countries the topic of "ageing" requires special att ention because the population of elderly people and the dependency ratio among them is high and continuously on the rise. This paper deals with the current condition of elderly women in the slum areas of Aligarh city, because these areas are the poorest and the most neglected segment of the society. The investigator has used a personal interview schedule from elderly women of these areas to know their participation in the economy. Due to lack of employment and lesser income, the young generation of these areas leaves their elder parents in a helpless condition. That is why they have no choice but to work and earn money for their basic needs i.e., food, shelter and clothes. The situation is even worst for women because they are illiterate so there is a slim chance of them gett ing respectable jobs, and they have to compromise to work as a domestic labourer, a bagger, a constructor, etc. Usually, elderly women of these areas take care of their grandchildren, and they help in domestic activities. As per the definition given by sociologists and theorists this work is not considered as productive. In this study, it is concluded that the elderly women are engaged in some activities but their participation in the rising economy is always neglected and people think that their contribution is not worth discussing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rupture to the patellar tendon caused by athletic activities is rare, but if not treated promptly, it can lead to unfavorable results such as quadriceps contracture, residual weakness, and reduced knee flexibility. A female patient who injured her knee seven months ago while twisting it experienced pain, instability, and tested positive for the anterior drawer and Lachman tests. Radiology results showed a complete tear of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and a partial tear of the patellar tendon on the MRI scan of the right knee. We used a direct end-to-end approximation technique for the patellar tendon, with augmentation through the transosseous site at the patella proximally and tibial tubercle distally, without using a graft. The outcome was good, and this is the first reported case of a successful patellar tendon reconstruction without using implants, synthetic augmentation, or graft. This technique could be a promising alternative to repair a chronic patellar tendon rupture without using expensive methods. The use of fiber tape augmentation can be a practical solution for treating a neglected patellar tendon rupture in conjunction with aligamentous injury that requires graft repair. The use of fiber tape augmentation might be an alternative method for treating a neglected patellar tendon rupture with concurrent ligament injury needing graft repair. We believe that this technique is easily reproducible and warrants further investigation. • Rupture to the patellar tendon caused by athletic activities is rare, but if not treated promptly, it can lead to unfavorable results • A patient present with neglected pattelar tendon rupture, treated with a direct end-to-end approximation technique without using a graft. • This is the first reported case of a successful patellar tendon reconstruction without using implants, synthetic augmentation, or graft. • We believe that this technique can be easily replicated and needs further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Post-traumatic unilateral or bilateral sub-axial cervical spine dislocations with locked facets are quite common. In developing countries like India, many patients with cervical injuries report late due to many reasons like rural backgrounds, lack of infrastructures and skilled surgeons, unawareness, poor socioeconomic status, lack of transportation to the specialized center with proper facility, etc. Early management is essential to maximize better neurological outcome. Delayed or neglected presentation makes treatment more challenging. Very few literatures are currently available regarding management of neglected cervical facet dislocation but no one offers clear cut management. Purpose of our study is to evaluate treatment outcome of 15 patients with post-traumatic neglected cervical facet dislocation. Here we have reviewed 15 patients with post-traumatic neglected presentation of cervical facet dislocations and evaluated their treatment outcome. Materials and methods This is a retrospective type of study done in spine care unit of VMMC and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi from July 2013 to June 2016. Record of 15 patients with neglected cervical dislocation who were undergone anterior cervical discectomy and fusion along with posterior lateral mass screw fixation depending upon close reduction and integrity of disco-ligamentous complex. Results 15 patients were included in this study. 4 patients underwent only anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) after complete close reduction with intact disco-ligamentous complex. Remaining 11 patients who failed to achieve complete reduction or had posterior disco-ligamentous injuries underwent posterior partial facetectomy and lateral mass screw fixation with anterior discectomy and fusion concomitantly. Mean follow up period was 14 months. All patients achieved pain relief and sufficient neck movements. 1 patient with only nerve root injuries recovered completely. 6 out of 11 patients with incomplete spinal cord injuries, improved by one Frankel grade and remaining 5 patients by two grades. 3 patients with complete quadriplegia showed no clinical and neurological improvement. Conclusion Proper decompression, reduction and fixation should be done in neglected cervical dislocation as it provides mechanical stability and alignment, facilitates rehabilitation, prevent kyphotic deformity as well as offers a fair chance of neurological recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: loiasis is a neglected filariasis, affecting millions of individuals living in the rainforest areas of West and Central Africa. Aim of this study was to compare clinical and parasitological manifestations of loiasis between subjects born in endemic areas and expatriates/ travelers. Methods: we report clinical and parasitological manifestations of 100 patients with imported loiasis seen between 1993 and 2013 at the Center of Tropical Diseases, Negrar, Italy. Results: among the 100 patients, 30 were African immigrants, 70 were Europeans (59 long-term expatriates and 11 travelers). Thirty-five patients (19 Africans and 16 Europeans) had positive microfilaremia. Calabar swellings were twice as frequent in Europeans (90%) than in Africans (46.7%), while a history of "eyeworm" was recorded in a higher proportion of Africans (43.3%) than in Europeans (17.4%). The median duration of exposure in the non-endemic group was also fairly long (14.6 years). Different drug regimens were used for treatment. Conclusions: we suggest that the differences between Africans and Europeans are more likely to be related to genetic differences, rather than to chronicity. Moreover the management of imported loiasis needs standardization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background No study has ever evaluated the causes and effect of neglect on the outcome of post burns contractures of hand in children. Methods 66 hands in 61 children (mean age 12.22 years) with a mean neglect of 11.6 years (range 5–17 years) were assessed for the causes of neglect and the outcome of surgery. Average follow up was 6.6 years. The results were assessed in two groups of 5–10 years neglect as group I and >10 years neglect as group II. Results In a total number of 134 contracted rays in 66 hands, the surgical procedures included local Z/V-Y flap (51 rays), cross finger flap (48 rays), full thickness graft (35 rays). Additional external fixator with a distracter was used in 3 patients treated at a delay of 14, 16 and 17 years. 50 (81.96%) patients belonged to rural and slum areas. The reasons for delayed treatment included poverty – 33 patients, lack of awareness of surgical treatment – 16 patients; and indifference of parents – 12 patients. 44 (72.13%) children were illiterates. With treatment the average DASH score improved from 65.10 to 36.90 ( p < .000) and from 68.14 to 45.93 ( p < .000) in group I and II respectively. The results were significantly superior in group I ( p < .000). Conclusion The main factors for neglect in treatment of post burns contracture include poverty, lack of awareness and illiteracy. All the patients showed significant improvement in function after the surgery. Contractures with higher neglect had significantly inferior outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Congenital muscular torticollis (CMT) is the third most common congenital musculoskeletal anomaly seen in children. It is a condition in which the affected sternocleidomastoid muscle becomes a fibrosed cord with associated shortening of the muscle. This leads to an ipsilateral side tilt of the neck and contralateral rotation of the face and chin to the other side. Apart from surgery various other treatment modalities are used to treat this condition. We present two siblings of Sudanese nationality with manifestation of Congenital Muscular Torticollis, a male child and female child at the age of 12 and 10 years respectively. Both had CMT of the right sternomastoid muscle. Both were delivered normally. They did not undergo any form of physiotherapy or surgical procedure since birth. Because of this neglected circumstances, the facial asymmetry and deformity were severe. Both the siblings were operated in our hospital with satisfactory result on follow up. Management for CMT starts during the early infancy and physiotherapy is the main treatment for this condition. But some of these CMT children may need surgical intervention to prevent further deterioration of cranial deformity and facial asymmetry. If these children are neglected and present later in life, they will have severe facial deformity with its associated sequelae. These patients are usually managed by other specialities worldwide. But awareness of these conditions is required among paediatric surgeons, as some of these children may be referred to them for treatment. In our case report we have also described various other modalities of treatment for this condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: Femoral neck fractures in young adults is an unsolved problem and neglected femoral neck fractures presents more challenge to the orthopaedics surgeon if femoral head salvage is attempted. We reviewed the operative results of neglected femoral neck fractures in young adults with fixation with dual fibular bone grafting Purpose of study was evaluation of epidemiological, clinical, functional, rehabilitative outcome and complications in such patients. Methods: Twentyeight patients in age group 18–50 years were operated having fracture neck femur by dual fibular bone grafting in the Department of Orthopaedics, S.N. Medical College, Agra in (May 2005–February 2008) and divided into two groups. Group A: comprised of 8 patients treated by dual fibular bone grafting alone and Group B: comprised of 18 patients treated by dual fibular bone grafting with single cancellous hip screw. Results: All the patients of the present series were having neglected intracapsular fracture, neck femur which were treated by dual fibular bone grafting with or without cancellous hip screw fixation. Majority of the patients had good to fair result according to Larson method with average time of union 16 weeks. All patients had useful range of movement at hip. Satisfactory union was achieved in all patients except two. Conclusion: Double bone grafting is a simple and cost effective modality of treatment for late femoral neck fracture with good results. It is a stable and biological method of fixation with preservation of natural femoral head with fewer complications. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Background: Femoral neck fractures in young adults have always presented a difficult problem with high rates of non-union and avascular necrosis. At our centre we have been using the traditional Pauwels intertrochanteric osteotomy for neglected un-united femoral neck fractures in young adults. We have made certain modifications in this procedure to suit our resources and so we evaluated the outcome of this procedure at our institute. Methods: The study included fifty consecutive cases of neglected femoral neck fractures treated at our centre between February 1996 and October 2012. Patients in whom internal fixation had failed were excluded. The average age of the patients was 37 years (range: 17–55 years). Eleven of the patients were female & Thirty-nine were male. Fifteen patients belonged to Pauwels grade 1, Twenty-six patients belonged to grade 2, and nine belonged to grade 3. The interval between the injury and operation ranged from 1 to 12months (average: 4.3 months). The cases were operated on a normal table using a Watson Jones Approach. The fracture ends were freshened and fixed using a 6.5mm screw followed by a valgus osteotomy which was fixed by a double angle (120 degree) blade plate. Results: A fracture union rate of 90% (45 cases) was achieved. Two of the healed cases developed avascular necrosis. Results were graded using Askin and Bryan's criteria. Overall, an excellent result was seen in 35 patients, good in 5, fair in 5 and poor in 5. Of the five patients having poor result (3 non-union, 1 implant breakage, 1 implant cut out), two refused revision surgery. In remaining three, one underwent total hip arthroplasty and in two revision osteotomy was performed. Conclusion: We believe that intertrochanteric osteotomy provides a good outcome for neglected femoral neck fractures. Performing the procedure on a routine table, with Watson Jones approach and fixing with double angle blade plate is a good option. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Isolated absence of the patella is an extremely rare condition. Absence or hypoplasia of the patella is usually associated with genetic disorders and lower limb malformations. In this paper, an isolated absence of the patella without any other deformities is described. A 21-year-old male patient referred to our clinic presented with walking difficulty in the past 6 months and deformity of both knees. Except for these complaints, he had no problems. Isolated aplasia of the patella may cause no major dysfunction, and surgical or major treatment is not always required. The most interesting point of this case is that the patient had not experienced any complaints for over 20 years, nor was he aware of his knee deformity. This appears to be the first report of neglected bilateral patellar aplasia in a 21-year-old male patient. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The aim of this study was to evaluate the results of valgus osteotomy in patients with neglected or failed internal fixation of intracapsular fracture neck femur. Thirty patients in the age group from 17 years to 55 years were treated with valgus osteotomy and fixation with double angled blade plate. One additional 6.5 mm cannulated cancellous screw was also used. The average duration between injury and surgery was 11.3 weeks. The union at fracture site was achieved in 26 patients at an average period of 22 weeks. The union at osteotomy site was achieved at 8.6 weeks. The osteotomy site united in all cases. The complications of surgical procedure included 2 cases of blade cut through, 2 cases of joint penetration, 4 cases of avascular necrosis and 2 cases of nonunion. There was one case of superficial infection which was controlled by antibiotics. The results were clinically graded using and Harris hip score which was good to excellent in 80% of cases, fair in 7%, and poor in 13% of cases. Valgus intertrochanteric osteotomy for neglected or ununited intracapsular fracture of neck of femur and its fixation with double angled blade plate gives satisfactory results in most cases. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The paper signifies research findings regarding Street Children in Pirwadhai, Rawalpindi, in the province of Punjab, Pakistan. This study explains the changing family structures due to which children are compelled to leave their homes and adopt the life as street children. It was noticed that troubled family were the main factor behind pushing the children to the street. Such infighting deprived children from basic needs and making them vulnerable to street threats. Such families abandon their children and they remain devoid of social nurturing which is the first step for the child to be accepted in the society as a respectable member. When street children were denied of their basic needs for a long period they reacted in an antagonistic and insensitive way towards social values in general and family set up in particular. As a result they run away from their homes and fall into the hands of criminal elements. This study depicts, inter-alia, street children's life in terms of their family milieu, the course of action to take to street life and their experiences on the street. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic Achilles tendon ruptures are often challenging to repair because of muscle and tendon atrophy, retraction, and short distal stumps. We undertook a retrospective investigation of 14 patients who were treated with the Ligament Advanced Reinforcement System (LARS) ligament for the treatment of chronic, neglected rupture of the Achilles tendon. The patients pursued a course of early functional rehabilitation, and postoperative outcome scores were obtained at 3, 6, and 12 months, based on the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle and hindfoot scoring system, and the Tegner Activity score. The minimum duration of follow-up was 36 months. After a minimum of 28 months postoperative, and up to 41 months postoperative, there was no observed incidence of rerupture or recurrent pain. The mean time to return to full activity was 18.3 ± 2.7 weeks, and >90% of the patients scored ≥80 points on the AOFAS scoring scale. Specifically, the mean AOFAS score increased from 48.64 ± 12.67 to 85.86 ± 6.6 after the operation, and this difference was statistically significant (P = .001). Furthermore, the Tegner activity scale score improved from 2.58 ± 0.31 to 1.73 ± 0.29 after the operation, and this difference was also statistically significant (P = .001). The results of this retrospective clinical study suggest that augmentation with the LARS ligament offers a satisfactory reconstructive option for the neglected Achilles tendon rupture. Level of Clinical Evidence: 4 [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The COVID-19 pandemic had serious impact on health care sector. During reprioritisation of the services, elective and non-emergency procedures were suspended, with gradual resumption of services after lockdown was over. In this study we assessed the impact of pandemic on our clubfoot program at a tertiary care institute. Also, we discussed the future challenges and strategies to re-start our clubfoot program. Data was collected retrospectively regarding registrations, demography and procedures done at our clubfoot centre. Study period was 25 March to 31 December 2020 and it was compared with same duration from previous years 2019 and 2018. After the data analysis, the findings were discussed on departmental committee meeting, future challenges were considered and strategies were charted out for re-establishing the clubfoot program at our Institute. When compared to previous year, we noted 46% decline in paediatric outpatient registrations and 60% decline in new clubfoot registrations at our centre. The clubfoot follow-up visits reduced by 30% in the pandemic year 2020. 80% of clubfoot registrations were local residents during pandemic year, which was 54%, 58% in year 2019 and 2018 respectively. The percentage of neglected cases remained stable, however, share of relapse cases increased during pandemic year. There was 80% decline in number of tenotomies and 90% decline in other clubfoot surgeries performed during pandemic year 2020 compared to year 2019. COVID-19 pandemic had definite disruptive impact on our clubfoot program. With decreased new registrations, follow-up visits and increased relapses, we anticipate a significant increase in clubfoot cases in need of casting & treatment. To deal with pent-up demand and an anticipated wave of relapse and neglected clubfoot cases, we have proposed strategies to re-establish clubfoot program in post-pandemic new-normal. We hope these will prepare us for any adversaries we face. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neglected Achilles tendon rupture injuries present surgical challenges because of the quality and quantity of tendon tissue during repair combined with the magnitude of mechanical forces placed on this tendon. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of an acellular human dermal tissue matrix, GRAFTJACKET, as an augmentation material in neglected Achilles tendon repair. Nine patients with neglected Achilles tendon ruptures were evaluated and followed up for a minimum of 20 months. Primary repair was followed by augmentation with the graft and suturing circumferentially around the tendon. Patients were placed in an early, functional rehabilitation program with postoperative evaluation at 3, 6, and 12 months. Outcome scores were calculated based on the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society ankle-hindfoot scoring system. At 20 to 30 months postoperative follow-up range, there has been no incidence of re-rupture or recurrent pain. The average return-to-activity time was 15.2 ± 1.7 weeks. The results from this retrospective clinical series suggest that using an acellular human dermal tissue matrix to augment neglected Achilles tendon rupture primary repair offers desirable return-to-activity time points and viable surgical alternative over previously reported surgical options. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Multiple surgical techniques for repair of neglected Achilles tendon ruptures have been described in the literature. The authors present a case using a freeze-dried Achilles tendon allograft for repair of a neglected rupture of the Achilles tendon with a defect of 10 cm. At 1-year follow-up, the patient achieved pre-injury functional use of the affected limb. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Patients presenting late for treatment of clubfoot deformity are still common in many parts of the world. These feet are often rigid and severely deformed. Surgical correction is the prevailing option to attain a plantigrade foot, and the extent of correction required predisposes to wound-healing problems. We present the results of treatment of 15 patients (21 feet) with severe, untreated congenital talipes equino varus, who underwent operations using a double zigzag incision as a single-stage procedure. These patients ranged in age from 6 months to 4 years and presented late, having received no treatment or inadequate treatment since birth. The desired end point of the study was a fully corrected foot with a wound that would heal primarily without complications. The etiology was isolated congenital talipes equino varus in 11 patients and arthrogryposis multiplex congenita in 4 patients. Eleven patients were boys and 4 were girls; 6 patients underwent bilateral procedures. The patients were graded preoperatively and postoperatively using the Dimeglio classification, with 10 feet classified preoperatively as grade 3 and 11 graded as grade 4. Desired correction was achieved in all feet, and all wounds healed uneventfully with no complications. This single-stage technique is very safe and cost-effective and is an easy alternative to standard techniques for dealing with late-presenting untreated severe clubfoot deformities. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]