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Objectives\ud To identify by systematic review published prevalence estimates of radiographic ankle osteoarthritis (OA) and to subsequently estimate the prevalence of ankle pain and symptomatic, radiographic ankle OA within community-dwelling older adults from North Staffordshire, UK.\ud \ud Methods\ud Electronic databases were searched using terms for ankle, osteoarthritis and radiography. Data regarding population, radiographic methods, definitions and prevalence estimates of ankle OA were extracted from papers meeting predetermined selection criteria. Adults aged ≥50 years and registered with four general practices in North Staffordshire were mailed a health questionnaire. Ankle pain in the previous month was determined using a foot and ankle pain manikin. Respondents reporting pain in or around the foot in the last 12 months were invited to attend a research clinic where weight-bearing, antero-posterior and lateral ankle radiographs were obtained and scored for OA using a standardised atlas. Prevalence estimates for ankle pain and symptomatic, radiographic ankle OA were calculated using multiple imputation and weighted logistic regression, and stratified by age, gender and socioeconomic status.\ud \ud Results\ud Eighteen studies were included in the systematic review. The methods of radiographic classification of ankle OA were poorly reported and showed heterogeneity. No true general population prevalence estimates of radiographic ankle OA were found, estimates in select sporting and medical community-dwelling populations ranged from 0.0–97.1%. 5109 participants responded to the health survey questionnaire (adjusted response 56%). Radiographs were obtained in 557 participants. The prevalence of ankle pain was 11.7% (10.8,12.6) and symptomatic, radiographic ankle OA grade≥2 was 3.4% (2.3, 4.5) (grade≥1: 8.8% (7.9,9.8); grade = 3: 1.9% (1.0,2.7). Prevalence was higher in females, younger adults (50–64 years) and those with routine/manual occupations.\ud \ud Conclusion\ud No general population prevalence estimates of radiographic ankle OA were identified in the published literature. Our prevalence study found that ankle pain was common in community-dwelling older adults, whereas moderate to severe symptomatic, radiographic ankle OA occurred less frequently. Further investigations of the prevalence of ankle OA using more sensitive imaging modalities are warranted.

Background: Ankle pain is common in clinical practice. Various lesions including trauma, impingement syndromes, inflammatory arthritis, soft tissue, and bony lesions affect the ankle joint. Imaging is crucial in the determination of the pain cause and management. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the role of high-resolution musculoskeletal ultrasonography (MSK US) compared to the role of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in ankle pain. Patients and Methods: This studyconducted on 29 patients who presented with ankle pain during the period from September 2018 until September 2019 at Qena University Hospitals, South Valley University, Egypt and evaluated by plain radiographs, US and MRI. Comparative analysis was done between US and MRI. Results: The US was able to detect various lesions affecting the ankle ( tendinous and ligamentous injury, plantar fasciitis, joint effusion, bursitis, ganglion cysts, tarsal tunnel syndrome) with sensitivity and specificity of 100% regarding tendons pathology and sensitivity 80 %, specificity 100 % regarding ligamentous injuries with overall accuracy 95 % compared to MRI. US was negative in all MRI positive bony lesions. Conclusion: The US is a useful imaging modality in identifying a large spectrum of causes of ankle pain and should be considered a first step diagnostic tool when an osseous lesion is not suspected.

Objectives: Radiographic reference lines, angles, and measures comprise the foundation for accurate evaluation and surgical planning of orthopedic surgeries, especially when it comes to foot and ankle deformities. To date, no study has evaluated the average parameters for foot and ankle radiography in the Saudi population. This study aimed to establish reference values of foot and ankle angles for the general Saudi population. Methods: We included 100 participants (200 feet) in this study, with 50 males and 50 females aged 21–30 years. We recruited subjects who had no history of foot or ankle pain, surgery or fracture, no evidence of ligamentous laxity, and no history of systemic disease. Bilateral anterior-posterior (AP) and lateral weight-bearing radiographs were obtained using standardized angles. A total of 19 angles on AP and 9 angles on lateral radiographs were evaluated. Radiographic parameters were compared between genders. Results: A total of 400 radiographs from 200 normal feet were evaluated. The mean ± SD age of the subjects was 22.7±1.7 years. Statistically significant differences in mean radiographic parameters were found between males and females in both radiographic projections. Conclusion: Significant variation exists between the normal foot and ankle reference angles between the Saudi population included in our study and other ethnicities. Moreover, significant differences are found between genders in our study. Considering the lack of other studies involving the Saudi population, the results of this study can help serve as a reference when evaluating Saudi patients.

Os subtibiale is a low prevalence accessory bone of the ankle. This bone is located in the posterior colliculus of the tibial medial malleolus, both in paediatric and adult ages. It can cause pain, redness and/or swelling, which can lead to a mistaken diagnosis of avulsion fracture. Adequate anatomical knowledge is crucial. First, we present the case of a school-aged boy, seen at the outpatient clinic for a 2-month history of pain in both inner ankles after an injury. Second, we present the case of an adult patient with a 3-day history of right medial ankle pain, with no previous injury, evaluated at the Emergency Department. Accurate history-taking and physical examination are essential. The diagnosis is given by conventional radiology of both ankles, in antero-posterior and lateral load views. The initial treatment is conservative (splint or orthesis) to establish and maintain the function of the foot during loading activities. If there is no recovery after 6 months, surgical treatment can be considered.

Osteochondral lesions (OCLs) of the talar dome consist of a multifactorial pathology of the articular cartilage and subchondral bone and can result in persistent ankle pain and osteoarthritis (OA). Along with a physical examination and clinical history, an imaging evaluation plays a pivotal role in the diagnosis of these lesions and is fundamental for making treatment decisions and determining prognosis by providing information regarding the size, location, and cartilage and subchondral bone statuses as well as associated lesions and degenerative changes. Multiple surgical techniques for OCLs of the talar dome have been developed in recent decades, including cartilage repair, regeneration, and replacement strategies, and radiologists should be acquainted with their specific expected and abnormal postoperative imaging findings to better monitor the results and predict poor outcomes. The present article proposes a thorough review of the ankle joint anatomy and biomechanics, physiopathology, diagnosis, and treatment of OCLs of the talar dome, highlighting the radiological approach and imaging findings in both pre- and postoperative scenarios.

Osteochondral lesion of the talus (OLT) is a common cause of ankle pain that often occurs in the talar dome and leads to talar cartilage and subchondral bone damage. Osteochondral autograft transplantation is a logical treatment option. It is known that if the cartilage does not heal properly after injury, it degenerates, and osteoarthritis worsens. A three dimensional (3D)-printed guide plate can be used to find the curved articular surface from the donor site which optimally fits the defect in the talus. Herein, we present the case of a 28-year-old man who had an open injury from the crash of a tricycle in the right ankle at the age of 5. Radiographs revealed a large defect in the medial talar dome that affected nearly half of the talar dome. We performed the debridement of the ankle lesion. An osteochondral autograft was harvested from the medial femoral condyle (MFC) with the help of a personalised 3D-printed guide plate. This 3D-printed guide plate simulated the contour of a specific area in the talar dome, which involved the site of the defect. The autograft was then transplanted into the talus defect. The efficacy of this technique was evaluated at 2, 4, and 7 months after surgery and proven to be reliable.

Ankle impingement refers to a chronic painful mechanical limitation of ankle motion caused by soft tissue or osseous abnormality affecting the anterior or posterior tibiotalar joint. Impingement can be associated with a single traumatic event or repetitive microtrauma. These syndromes are a possible etiology of persistent ankle pain. An arthroscopic approach to this pathology, when indicated, is considered as ideal treatment with its high safety and low complication rate. We describe the clinical and potential imaging features, and the arthroscopic/endoscopic management strategies, for the 4 main impingement syndromes of the ankle: anterolateral, anterior, antero-medial, and posterior.

Introduction: One of the rare causes of chronic ankle pain is a longitudinal tear of peroneus brevis tendon. Peroneus Brevis (PB) tears are thought to occur from both trauma and chronic instability, with and without subluxation former being more common. We report a case of chronic lateral ankle pain due to longitudinal tear of the peroneus brevis tendon without subluxation. Case report: A 51 years female, presented with pain and swelling behind the lateral malleolus on the left side. She had a twisting injury to the ankle before six months. The patient had pain with active resistance to eversion and single- legged standing. Magnetic Resonance image showed an irregularity at PB tendon and excessive fluid inside the synovial sheath, consistent with a partial-thickness tear. Surgical exploration of the peroneal tendon was performed. A longitudinal split of the peroneus brevis tendon about 3 cm long was noted at the level of retrofibular groove, the peroneus longus was intact and neither of the tendons was subluxated. The one part of the torn PB tendon which was frayed was trimmed distally and sutured to the main tendon using an absorbable suture. The lax superior peroneal retinaculum was plicated and fixed to the fibula using a suture anchor. The bony irregularities in the posterior aspect of lateral malleolus were smoothened to prevent further attrition tear. At one year follow up, the patient had no residual symptoms. Conclusion: Injury to the peroneal tendons is a frequently overlooked cause of persistent lateral ankle pain after trauma. High degree of clinical suspicion is important to diagnose the injuries. MRI serves as the key diagnostic tool. These tendon injuries need to be managed based on the extent and quality of the tears. Associated pathologies have to be addressed to prevent recurrence.

Introduction: Acute ankle sprains are a common type of musculoskeletal injury. With the increased popularity of MRI post-ankle sprain, more cases of bone marrow edema or bone bruise are detected. This is a subchondral osseous fracture of the cancellous microarchitecture with accompanied local hemorrhage and edema. This study aims to analyze if the presence of ankle ligament injury presents any significant statistical relation with the specific location. Materials and Methods: We reviewed 50 MRI performed during 2015-2018 for patients who reported ankle pain and signs of instability. Two different radiologists evaluated the series. Bone marrow edema location and specific ligament lesions were contrasted to find possible associations. Chi-Square was used to analyzethe differences. Results: The anterior talofibular ligament was the most commonly injured ligament (84%). CFL injury occurred in 27 cases (54%). There were no differences between the presence of bone marrow edema and the ligament injured after an ankle sprain (p>0,05). Overall, the most common location of bone marrow edema was the head and neck of the talus (64%). There was no statistical relationship between bone marrow edema location and the injured ligament (p>0,05). Conclusion: Bone marrow edema is a frequent finding after a ligament injury following ankle sprains. However, this finding is not directly related to a specific location of the injured ligament. The location of bone marrow edema is not related to specific ligament injuries. MRI findings of bone marrow edema must not change the management of patients with acute ankle sprains. Level of Evidence: II

This review describes a case of atraumatic avascular necrosis in the foot and ankle in a patient with systemic sclerosis who did not receive corticosteroid therapy. Both avascular necrosis and systemic sclerosis are uncommon disease entities. This case demonstrates that vasculitis and secondary vasoconstriction in the pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis are important risk factors for the development of avascular necrosis of the foot and ankle. Therefore, if these patients develop chronic foot and ankle pain, avascular necrosis should be included in the differential diagnosis, even if they do not receive corticosteroids. For the diagnosis and follow-up of avascular necrosis MRI remains the gold standard. Thus, MRI should be used to diagnose avascular necrosis in an early stage. Level of Clinical Evidence: 4.

Introduction: Stenosing tenosynovitis is a chronic disorder frequently observed in finger triggering of a digit. Regarding the toes, although entrapment of the flexor hallucis longus (FHL) has already been reported in a few cases among sports players, the clinical condition is uncommon. Besides, the case without any specific causes is particularly rare. Case Report: We report the case of a 26-year-old male with FHL entrapment. Even though he was unaware of any cause, he felt tenderness on the posteromedial side of his left ankle, and his great toe was locked in the flex position. Magnetic resonance imaging indicated effusion in the tendon sheath of the FHL and the possibility of a partial tear of the FHL. We hypothesized that the scar tissue secondary to the partial tear of the FHL may have been irritated at the retrotalar pulley below the sustentaculum tali, where the FHL glides. Therefore, posterior ankle arthroscopy was performed for the treatment of the FHL entrapment. Conclusion: Orthopedic surgeons should list this pathology as a differential diagnosis of posterior ankle pain, even in non-athletes. Keywords: ankle arthroscopy, flexor hallucis longus, stenosing tenosynovitis.

Talar osteonecrosis results from trauma to the fragile blood supply to the talus. Many etiologies exist that can cause talar osteonecrosis, with the most common being talar neck fractures. Patients with talar osteonecrosis frequently present with progressive ankle pain and limited range of motion. Treatment strategy depends primarily on the stage of disease. Conservative care in the form of medications and bracing treatment can be beneficial for patients with low functional status and early disease stages. Surgical options also exist for early disease without talar collapse that can potentially preserve the tibiotalar joint. Once talar collapse develops, surgical treatment is move invasive and typically involves an arthrodesis or talus arthroplasty. Although some treatment guidelines exist based on the disease stage, talar osteonecrosis is a complex problem, and treatment strategy should always be determined on a case-by-case basis carefully examining all clinical aspects.

We report 2 cases of ipsilateral ankle and knee osteoarthritis (OA), with the chief complaint being chronic ankle and knee pain. In the first patient, the ankle pain was more severe than the knee pain, whereas the second patient had more severe pain in the knee than in the ankle. In both cases, varus malalignment of the knee and varus tilt of the ankle joint were detected on standing radiographs. The severity of OA was found to be grade 4 in the knee, according to the Kellgren–Lawrence grading system, and stage IIIa in the ankle, according to the modified Takakura ankle OA classification system. Navigation-assisted total knee arthroplasty was performed in both cases, leading to a decreased degree of varus malalignment in the knee and ankle, as well as a significantly improved patient-based outcome in both joints. Correction of malalignment of the ankle by total knee arthroplasty relieved the severe pain and restored optimal function in the ankle without surgical intervention.

Osteoid osteoma (OO) is a benign, small, and painful tumor typically seen in the subcortical shaft and metaphysis of the long bones of the lower limb. The occurrence of this type of tumor on the talar neck is rare and may cause limitation of range of motion of the ankle joint. In this article, a 17-year-old male patient had ankle pain and limitation of joint motion accompanied by synovitis. The OO in the intraarticular subperiosteal talar neck was successfully excised arthroscopically and the nidus was completely removed. The diagnosis was confirmed histopathologically in the postoperative period. In this case, we achieved a successful result with surgical treatment of benign bone tumor in the talus with intraarticular excision of the lesion arthroscopically.

The aim of this paper is to discuss anterior ankle impingement (AAI) regarding diagnosis, interventions, techniques and future perspectives. AAI is a pain syndrome due to soft tissue or bony impingement. Impingement caused by soft tissues is frequently found in the anterolateral compartment of the ankle, whereas impingement caused by bony spurs is generally located in the anteromedial compartment. Typical complaints are chronic ankle pain, limited dorsiflexion and swelling. The most important feature is recognisable tenderness on palpation, which helps distinguish this condition from an osteochondral lesion, which is characterised with deep ankle pain. Although the diagnosis is mainly based on clinical assessment, imaging is helpful for differential diagnosis and preoperative planning. Standard X-rays, using anteroposterior, lateral and an anteromedial oblique view for detecting bony spurs, are sufficient to make the diagnosis. CT can be used to accurately assess the extent and size of a bony spur. MRI is useful to evaluate soft tissue lesions and exclude concomitant pathology, like osteochondral lesions or stress fractures. Conservative treatment is the first-line treatment. In cases where conservative treatment has been unsuccessful, surgery may be indicated. Arthroscopic debridement is considered the gold standard to treat AAI. Rehabilitation protocol includes full weight-bearing and exercises to stimulate active dorsiflexion-plantar flexion and avoid stiffness.

OBJECTIVES Standard titanium nails (TN) or carbon fiber-reinforced PEEK nails (CFN) were compared to evaluate impact of material on fracture union, healing time, knee/ankle, and barometric pain. DESIGN Longitudinal cohort evaluated retrospectively comparing 2 periods using 2 implant types. SETTING Single surgeon series at one Level II Trauma Center. PATIENTS Standardized treatment protocol. Fifty-six tibial fracture patients suitable for intramedullary nailing over 5-year period. INTERVENTION First period-TN; second period-CFN. MAIN OUTCOME Measurements: standard demographic data: OTA/AO fracture classification, fracture location, and nail type. OUTCOME PARAMETERS cumulative healing at standard time intervals, infection/nonunion, associated injuries, knee/ankle, barometric pain, and implant removal. Statistical analysis comparing incident healing. RESULTS Patient populations were not statistically different regarding demographics and fracture type/location, although there was a trend toward greater fracture severity/more associated injuries in CFN group. In 56 patients, 26 received CFN and 30 received TN. Healing rates were reported at each time interval. 8 weeks: TN-0%, CFN-19%; 12 weeks: TN-17%, CFN-69%; 16 weeks: TN-57%, CFN-92%; 20 weeks: TN-87%, CFN-96%; and 24 weeks: TN-97%, CFN-96% (P < 0.0001 every interval except 24 weeks). Each group had one infected nonunion in an open fracture that healed with subsequent treatment. There was a trend toward less barometric pain with CFN that did not reach statistical significance (P = 0.065). No statistical differences with knee/ankle pain (P = 0.109)/removal of implant (P = 0.269) potentially due to low power of pilot study. CONCLUSIONS In this pilot study evaluating CFR-PEEK intramedullary nail for tibial shaft fractures, there was a demonstrated accelerated healing times compared to titanium with a potential for less barometric pain. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Purpose: Chronic anterior ankle pain is a recognized and straightforward characteristic of anterior impingement syndrome. This retrospective study aims to evaluate outcomes, clinical and radiological results in patients affected by anterior ankle impingement, in a context of early osteoarthritis, and treated with mini-open anterior ankle arthrolysis, in the perspective to delay or avoid other demolitive surgical options, such as total ankle replacement and joint fusion. Methods: In total, 49 patients (50 feet, mean age 45years) undergone mini-open anterior ankle arthrolysis for anterior impingement, fulfilled inclusion criteria and gave their consent and have been enlisted in the study. Patients were retrospectively reviewed with AOFAS ankle-hindfoot score and SF-36 score at a minimum follow-up of 36months. Statistical analysis was performed. Results: A marked improvement was noticed in terms of preoperative clinical score (mean AOFAS score 47.32 ± 17.89) compared to follow-up clinical score (mean AOFAS score 70.66 ± 16.62; p ' 0.005), and all of 8 SF-36 domains showed statistically improved (p ' 0.05) from preoperative to follow-up. Statistical significance has been shown. Conclusions: It is possible to consider the mini-open anterior arthrolysis, thanks to the reduction of the painful symptomatology, a valid tool for procrastinating more invasive interventions such as arthrodesis or prosthetic replacement in patients with grade 1 or 2 of ankle osteoarthritis.

Posterior ankle pain is a common foot and ankle problem faced by orthopaedic surgeons. It can have many causes, including posterior ankle joint pathologies (synovitis or osteochondral lesion), ankle impingement (posterior, posterolateral, or posteromedial), flexor hallucis longus pathologies, peroneal tendon problems, posterior tibial tendinopathy, Achilles tendon pathology, posterior subtalar tarsal coalition, or tarsal tunnel syndrome. Most of these pathologies can be managed effectively by an endoscopic approach. The classic endoscopic approach is the 2-portal posterior ankle endoscopy with the portals at the medial and lateral side of the Achilles tendon. This is performed with the patient in prone position. In this technical note, we describe the details of endoscopic approach to the posterior ankle via lateral portals. This allow flexibility of patient positioning (supine, prone, or lateral). It is particularly effective for the management of posteromedial ankle impingement without the risk of injury to the posterior tibial neurovascular bundle. Moreover, any concomitant peroneal tendon pathology can be managed via the same lateral portals.

Background Dry needling (DN) was effectively applied to a patient whose primary complaint was hyperalgesia and decreased ankle function meeting criteria for neuropathic myofascial pain following an integumentary infection, skin grafting and immobilization. Case description A 33-year-old male serving on active duty in the United States Air Force was referred to physical therapy for decreased ankle range of motion and pain, eight weeks after an integumentary infection on his ankle. The infection was complicated by tissue loss requiring skin grafting for closure. Two months of traditional rehabilitation was unsuccessful and this patient was referred for DN treatment. Outcomes Clinically relevant improvements were achieved after one treatment. After 48 hours, the patient's reported Pain Quality Assessment Scale (PQAS) dropped from a baseline 67 to 34 and Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS) increased from 44 to 56. Plantarflexion and dorsiflexion improved by 15° and inversion and eversion by five degrees. After one year and 11 DN treatments, function continued to improve as demonstrated by single leg stance time improvement from 4 s to more than 60 seconds, without pain, a final LEFS of 72 and a return to unrestricted full duty. Conclusion DN is an increasingly utilized treatment option for myofascial pain. This case report represents a unique application of DN to an atypical patient presenting with neuropathic myofascial pain syndrome that demonstrated improvement with DN as the sole intervention. Further research regarding the application of DN as a treatment option for neuropathic myofascial pain syndromes is needed.

A tarsal coalition is an abnormal connection between two or more tarsal bones caused by failure of mesenchymal segmentation. The two most common tarsal coalitions are calcaneonavicular coalition (CNC) and talocalcaneal coalition (TCC). Both CNC and TCC can be associated with significant foot and ankle pain and impaired quality of life; there may also be concomitant foot and ankle deformity. Initial, non-operative management for symptomatic tarsal coalition commonly fails, leaving surgical intervention as the only recourse. The focus of this article is to critically describe the variety of methods used to surgically manage CNC and TCC. In review of the pertinent literature we highlight the ongoing treatment controversies in this field and discuss new innovations. The evidence-based algorithmic approach used by the authors in the management of tarsal coalitions is illustrated alongside some clinical pearls that should help surgeons treating this common, and at times complex, condition.Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2020;5:80-89. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.5.180106

Background: Ankle pain is a disabling clinical complaint with substantial negative impact on patients' quality of life. The etiology of foot/ankle pain is multifactorial. Despite careful and detailed clinical history and accurate physical examination, reaching an accurate diagnosis is often difficult because nontraumatic ankle pain has a broad-spectrum etiology. Imaging plays a vital role in the etiology of ankle pain. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective study done in collaboration between department of orthopedics and radiodiagnosis and imaging on 43 patients from August 2018 to December 2019. Plain radiography of the ankle joint with anteroposterior and lateral views was done in every patient. Further investigations were advised using the American College of Radiology Appropriateness criteria scale for chronic ankle pain. Results: The most common causes of nontraumatic ankle pain were tendinosis of Achilles 6 (13.9%) including calcific tendinitis, tenosynovitis of other tendons 4 (9.3%), and benign bone tumors 4 (9.3%). Overall imaging was able to pick probable etiology in 34 out of 43 patients. No possible cause could be found in nine cases. Conclusion: Radiological imaging, especially cross-sectional imaging, is an asset for diagnosing etiology of ankle pain. Orthopedicians should not hesitate in referring patients with ankle pain to the radiology department.

Introduction Necrotizing fasciitis, also referred to necrotizing soft-tissue infection (NSTI), is an infrequent entity that results in orthopedic consultation. It is a rapidly spreading typically associated with a contaminated wound that spreads rapidly along fascial planes resulting in significant morbidity and mortality. However, it is a rare occurrence that such pathology occurs in an atraumatic fashion, which is without a wound through the skin. Case report A 33-year-old female with no significant medical history presented to a walk-in orthopedic clinic with increasing ankle pain after a lateral ankle sprain 2 days prior. Patient denies any fevers, chills, shortness of breath, numbness, tingling, paresthesia, or any additional trauma since the initial ankle sprain. The patient was afebrile, maintaining oxygenation, normotensive, but tachycardic to just over 100. Physical examination was only significant for moderate swelling and ecchymosis about the lateral malleolus. X-rays and venous ultrasound were negative for any associated pathology. After a period of observation, the patient acutely decompensated with a significant increase in pain in the lower leg on passive stretch, an increase in compartment firmness and a worsening tachycardia up to the 120's. The patient was taken emergently for fasciotomies for presumed compartment syndrome. The patient was hemodynamically unstable during the case and transferred to the intensive care unit where she continued to decompensate, requiring multiple vasopressors. The affected extremity became necrotic at the level of the foot and her hemodynamic instability continued, causing a return to the operating room for an emergent guillotine above-knee amputation. The patient progressively stabilized and underwent a formal above-knee amputation 2 days later. Cultures obtained during the second case were positive for Group A Streptococcus. Conclusion This case highlights the variable presentation of NSTIs as well as has having a high index of suspicion to ensure this highly morbid and fatal disease process is diagnosed expeditiously. This case is also unique in that it developed without any obvious wounds and that monomicrobial Group A Streptococcus was the culprit, while most NSTIs are polymicrobial.

Background Post-sprained ankles may sustain ligamentous tear, chondral defect, or osteochondral lesions (OCL). Being widely available and does not depend on high-end machine, the aim of this study was to assess the value of high resolution multi-detector CT arthrography (CTA) in detection of various ligamentous tears, chondral defects, and osteochondral lesions in case of sprain-related persistent ankle pain. Results There were 34 (68%) cases of ligamentous injury, most of which had single ligament affection whereas some cases demonstrated multi-ligamentous injury, and the total number of individual injured ligaments was 42 ligaments. There were 36 cases (72%) which had either chondral or osteochondral defects; the total number of OCL was 21 lesions and the total number of segmental cartilage defects was 20. Conclusion This study emphasized the diagnostic importance of multi-detector CTA in sprain-related ankle pain. In persistent post-sprained ankle pain, multi-detector CTA is a helpful imaging modality which could be utilized for detection of OCL, chondral defects, and various ligamentous tears.

Objectives To examine whether foot and/or ankle pain increases the risk of knee OA. Design We utilised longitudinal data from the Multicentre Osteoarthritis Study (MOST); a community-based cohort of risk factors for knee OA. Participants without frequent knee pain (clinic visit only) and radiographic knee OA (RKOA) at baseline and, with no evidence of musculoskeletal disease and a history of knee-related surgery were followed for up to 84-months for incident outcomes; i) RKOA (Kellgren-Lawrence (KL) ≥2), ii) symptomatic RKOA (RKOA and frequent pain in the same knee) and iii) frequent knee pain only. At baseline, ankle and foot symptoms were assessed, with knee radiographs and symptoms also assessed at 30, 60 and 84-months. Our exposures included baseline ankle, foot, and ankle and foot pain (participant-level). Associations between foot and/or ankle pain and incident outcomes were assessed using multiple logistic regression, with adjustment for participant characteristics and ankle/foot pain. Results No statistically significant associations were observed between ankle, foot and, ankle and foot pain and incident RKOA, respectively. Ankle pain with (2.30, 95% CI 1.13 to 4.66) and without foot pain (OR: 2.53, 95% CI 1.34 to 4.80) were associated with increased odds of incident symptomatic RKOA and frequent knee pain. No statistically significant associations were observed between foot pain and these outcomes. Conclusions Ankle pain should be a focus point, more so than foot pain, in the management of knee OA. Future studies should include additional ankle joint-specific symptom questions to better elucidate the knee OA biomechanical pathway.

Ankle tuberculosis is a relatively rare condition and may develop after hematogenous dissemination from the pulmonary origin, particularly in cases of immunosuppression. Both pregnancy and delivery are relatively immunosuppressive states, and immune modulations during these periods can contribute to the pathogenesis of disseminated tuberculosis. A 26-year-old mother presented with severe, continuous, and debilitating pain in the left ankle, lasting for three months after delivery and associated with fever. Inspection demonstrated ankle swelling and redness, with a cold and cyanotic forefoot. Ankle radiograph and musculoskeletal ultrasound evaluation were obtained. Tibiotalar joint arthrocentesis revealed purulent liquid suggestive of septic arthritis and an emergent arthroscopic washout of the ankle was performed. The synovial mycobacterial culture was posteriorly positive and the diagnosis established was both pulmonary and osteoarticular tuberculosis. A comprehensive rehabilitation program was then implemented to achieve maximum functional gains. This report presents a rare case of ankle tuberculosis diagnosed in the postpartum period. Early evaluation, treatment, and adequate rehabilitation interventions can be crucial to promote functionality and enhance the quality of life.

Background Ankle disorders are a relatively common pathological condition, and ankle injuries account for approximately 14% of sports-related orthopedic emergency visits. Various imaging modalities can be used to make a diagnosis in cases of ankle pain; however, ultrasound (US) has several benefits for the evaluation of ankle pain, especially in the tendons, ligaments, and nerves of the ankle. Aim of the work to assess the role of high resolution US as a valuable tool in the depiction of causes of ankle joint pain. Patient & methods our study is a cross sectional descriptive screening study including 25 patients with ankle joint pain (acute or chronic), post traumatic or not with no age or sex predilection. Results The study included 15 (60%) males and 10 (40%) females. Their age ranged from 10 to 60 years with a mean age of 33.84±13.31years. Chronic ankle pain was the most common presenting symptom in 15 patients (60%) whereas 10 (40%) patients presented with acute ankle pain after trauma. The posterior ankle compartment was the most common affected compartment (24%) of cases. About 7 cases (28%) were presented by ankle swelling with or without pain. Conclusion In conclusion, MSK US is useful in detecting the underlying causes of ankle pain and still it has the potential to offer more valuable data if it is well mastered by the sonographers.

We describe a case of septic arthritis caused by Staphylococcus pseudintermedius, a common colonizer of dogs that has emerged as a rare human pathogen. Our patient presented with ankle pain and swelling and was treated adequately with cefazolin/cephalexin and arthrotomy. S. pseudintermedius is often misidentified as other coagulase-positive staphylococcal species and has high rates of methicillin and nonpenicillin antibiotic resistance.

Background: Arthritis with severe varus deformity remains a challenge in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Until recently, surgeons aimed at a neutral lower limb alignment when performing a TKA. However, the impact of TKA on the ankle joint has been ignored. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review to assess the clinical and radiological changes in the ankle joint after TKA on knees with severe varus deformity.Methods: A systematic search was conducted in four English (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science) and four Chinese (CBM, VIP, CNKI, and Wan Fang Database) databases. Screening of literature and extraction of data were independently performed by two researchers. The modified methodological index for non-randomized studies (MINORS) was used to assess the quality.Results: A total of eight studies were eligible, namely, four prospective and four retrospective studies. TKA resulted in a negative clinical effect in the ankle joint in patients with ankle osteoarthritis. Seven studies reported changes in the mechanical tibiofemoral angle, and four studies reported radiological changes in the hindfoot. The mean score of the MINORS was 9.8 out of eight (9–11).Conclusion: As a result of the correction of the knee osteoarthritis with severe varus deformity following mechanically aligned TKA, the radiological malalignment of the ankle joint was improved. However, some patients experience increased ankle pain after undergoing TKA, especially, if there was a residual knee varus deformity, a stiff hindfoot with varus deformity, or ankle arthritis.

Metal toxicity due to environmental sources or orthopedic implants has been a primary focus in recent literature. Specifically, in orthopedics, total joint arthroplasty regarding metal-on-metal articulation with cobalt-chromium articulation has adverse local and systemic effects. In particular, strontium toxicity is less known metal toxicity that can cause many systemic effects such as severe osteoporosis. This is the first reported case of strontium toxicity and end-stage tibiotalar osteoarthritis. We present a case of a 68-year-old female with bilateral ankle pain and deformity that were refractory to conservative measures, including physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medications. She was diagnosed with bilateral osteoarthritis and osteoporosis secondary to strontium toxicity by exclusion after extensive workup with a multi-disciplinary approach. The patient pursued conservative measures with ankle-foot orthosis, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications. After the failure of conservative measures with over two years of follow-up, we recommended operative intervention to improve function and pain with staged bilateral tibiotalocalcaneal fusions utilizing an intramedullary device. Since she is moving out of state, she chose to pursue operative intervention at a different institution in order to establish long-term follow-up. The patient was placed on teriparatide for her osteoporosis secondary to strontium toxicity. Clinicians should be aware of strontium toxicity and its systemic effects and take a multi-disciplinary approach to treatment for optimal management.

We report an unusual case of extra-articular gouty tophus in the left medial malleolus. A 33-year-old man with a previous diagnosis of chronic gout presented with mild, non-disabling ankle pain associated with gout attacks. Imaging and histopathologic findings were inconclusive. The tumor was surgically resected, and the cavity was filled with methyl methacrylate. Histopathology confirmed the diagnosis in a sample collected intraoperatively. Giant cell tumor and bone cyst were ruled out. The patient had a good postoperative outcome. Level of Evidence V; Therapeutic Study; Expert Opinion.

OBJECTIVE To study the sensitivity and specificity of MRI and bone SPECT-CT in detecting the pain generator in ankle and foot pain with diagnostic dilemma. METHODS Retrospectively data of patients with ankle or foot pain who underwent both MRI and Bone SPECT-CT were analyzed. The lesions and probable pain generator sites were reported as per MRI and bone SPECT-CT findings. These lesions were correlated clinically, managed accordingly and followed up. The patients who had significant improvement in response to the treatment provided were considered to have been diagnosed accurately. The foot and ankle disability index (FADI) was used to evaluate the patient's pre- and postintervention condition. RESULTS The study included 37 patients retrospectively (18 women and 19 men). The lesions were classified into soft tissue lesions (ligaments/tendons), joint lesions (arthritis) and bony lesions (fractures/osteomyelitis/osteochondral lesions). Overall, MRI had sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of 82, 31, 74 and 42%, respectively, and SPECT-CT had sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of 84, 60, 84 and 60%, respectively. The mean FADI score pretreatment for all patients was 61.5 (SD = 13.8) and posttreatment 88.4 (SD = 13.01) showing significant improvement in the score (P < 0.05), suggesting that the final diagnosis of these patients was accurate. Overall, management change due to bone SPECT-CT over MRI was seen in 26% of patients. CONCLUSION Bone SPECT-CT has incremental value over MRI in the diagnosis of pain generator in foot and ankle pain. The overall specificity of bone SPECT-CT is higher than MRI in detection of pain generators. Bone SPECT-CT performed better than MRI in detection of culprit pathology in the bone, whereas MRI is better in soft tissue lesions. ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE There are only a few published literature with direct comparison of bone SPECT-CT scintigraphy and MRI in detection of foot and ankle pain generator. This study directly compares diagnostic utility of bone SPECT-CT scintigraphy and MRI in foot and ankle pain. In the present study, the bone SPECT-CT performed better than MRI in detection of culprit pathology in the bone, whereas MRI is better in soft tissue lesions.

Objective The purpose of this case report is to describe the treatment of a 3-year-old plafond fracture that developed posttraumatic osteoarthritis in a patient with chronic left ankle pain. Clinical Features A 65-year-old woman presented with daily anterior, posterior, medial, and lateral left ankle pain. Her initial pain level was 7 of 10 on weight bearing. She had trouble working and walking. She was previously treated with a walking boot, crutches, exercises, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and a steroid injection. She consulted our office approximately 3 years post-injury, at which point her initial disability score was 55 of 104 on the Foot and Ankle Disability Index. Interventions and Outcome The patient was subsequently treated with low-level laser, kinesio taping, exercise, and toggle board manipulation of the ankle. After a total of 6 visits, she was able to return to work and was walking with marked reduction of pain. Her pain level was 1 of 10 on weight bearing 1.5 years after her last treatment. Conclusion In this case report, a patient presented with 3-year-old ankle pain with an original etiology of plafond fracture. Her pain and disability resolved with a combination of low-level laser, exercises, kinesio taping, and toggle board manipulation. Her disability score after 6 visits was 18 of 104 on the Foot and Ankle Disability Index. This is a possible treatment option for posttraumatic osteoarthritis secondary to plafond fractures.

Achilles tendinopathy, both insertional and noninsertional, is a common cause of posterior ankle pain. Although the condition of most patients improves with simple conservative measures, a proportion will go on develop chronic symptoms. This study examines the outcomes of patients following extracorporeal shock wave therapy plus a home exercise program. This prospective case series study involves a total of 39 patients, with a mean follow-up duration of 163 (range 65 to 385) days. This has demonstrated significant benefits in pain, stiffness, and a range of measures of local and global function. Median (interquartile range [IQR]) values for average self-reported pain improved from 6.5 of 10 (IQR 5.0 to 7.8) at baseline to 3.5 of 10 (IQR 2.0 to 5.1) at 3 months and to 2.0 of 10 (IQR 0.6 to 4.8) at 6 months for patients with insertional Achilles tendinopathy. This compares to improvements from 7.0 of 10 (IQR 7.0 to 8.0) at baseline to 6.0 of 10 (IQR 5.6 to 6.8) at 3 months and to 6.0 of 10 (IQR 3.0 to 7.0) at 6 months for patients with noninsertional Achilles tendinopathy. Statistically significant improvements were seen in insertional tendinopathy across a range of outcome measures; however, these were less apparent for patients with noninsertional tendinopathy. Despite these figures, no significant differences were seen in the outcomes for patients with insertional and noninsertional tendinopathy. Despite the improvements seen in the aspects of pain and function, physical activity levels had not increased following the treatment.

Long-term studies have shown that 10% to 20% of patients continue to experience ankle pain years after tibial fracture, which causes poor functional results and dissatisfaction. The aim of this study was to show that there could be a talus injury in patients with a tibial shaft fracture and to reveal occult talus lesions with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination. Fifty-two patients with a tibial shaft fracture, with closed epiphyses, not extending to the joint and with no problems in the application of MRI examination were included. All patients underwent intramedullary tibial nailing. Patients with a lesion detected on MRI were planned to be examined by MRI again at mean of 12 months later. Ankle function of the patients were evaluated with the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society, Freiburg, and Weber scoring systems at 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. At the first MRI, 22 (42.3%) patients with tibial shaft fracture were found to have talus lesions: 7 (13.5%) had osteochondritis dissecans, 12 (23.1%) had edema, and 3 (5.8%) had cysts. A second MRI was planned for patients with edema and osteochondritis dissecans at a mean of 12 months. Finally, at 12 months, MRI examinations revealed osteochondritis dissecans and edema in 9 (17.3%) and 8 (15.4%) patients, respectively. In the evaluations of the patients according to the ankle scoring systems, the scores of the patients with pathology determined in the talus were significantly worse statistically than those of patients with no pathology determined at 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. Atalus lesion accompanied the tibial shaft fracture at a rate of 37%. The talus injuries were seen especially with an indirect mechanism of trauma, in distal third fractures, in spiral fractures, and when the tibial fracture was accompanied by a lateral malleolar fracture. In the presence of findings indicating talus injury in cases of tibial shaft fracture, the talus should be evaluated with ankle MRI.

Background Talus osteochondral lesion is commonly associated with trauma, avascular necrosis or even genetic factors, but gouty tophus as a cause of Hepple stage V type talus osteochondral lesion is rare. Case presentation Here, we report a case of an 18-year-old man who complained of left medial deep ankle pain on ambulation. This young man had an extreme liking of sea food rich in purines and also sugar-sweetened drinks. He was diagnosed with a Hepple stage V type talus osteochondral lesion and was treated with medial malleolus osteotomy and an osteochondral graft. The talus osteochondral lesion was found to be a gouty tophus and was completely removed. Hypouricemic therapy was prescribed for 2 months, which allowed the patient to walk with a visual analogue score (VAS) score of 1. He was followed up for 12 months. Conclusions Young people with an extreme liking of sea food rich in purines and also sugar-sweetened drinks may be at a risk of developing gout. Acute onset of ankle atraumatic pain, swelling with a high level of serum uric acid and a talus osteochondral lesion with cyst formation should make physicians consider a diagnosis of gout.

Objective Identify distinct trajectories of lack of knee confidence over an 8-year follow-up period and examine baseline factors associated with poor trajectories in persons with or at risk for knee osteoarthritis (OA). Methods The Osteoarthritis Initiative is a prospective cohort study of persons with or at high risk for knee OA. Confidence in the knees was assessed within the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score instrument querying how much the individual is troubled by lack of confidence in his/her knee(s), rated as not-at-all (0), mildly (1), moderately (2), severely (3), and extremely (4) troubled, reported annually from baseline to 96 months. Lack of knee confidence was defined as a score ≥ 2. We used latent class models to identify subgroups that share similar underlying knee confidence trajectories over an 8-year period, and multivariable multinomial logistic regression models to examine baseline factors associated with poor trajectories. Results Among 4515 participants [mean age 61.2 years (SD 9.2), BMI 28.6 kg/m2 (4.8); 2640 (58.5%) women], four distinct knee confidence trajectories were identified: persistently good (65.6%); declining (9.1%); poor, improving (13.9%); and persistently poor (11.4%). Baseline predictors associated with persistently poor confidence (reference: persistently good) were younger age, male sex, higher BMI, depressive symptoms, more advanced radiographic disease, worse knee pain, weaker knee extensors, history of knee injury and surgery, and reported hip and/or ankle pain. Conclusion Findings suggest the dynamic nature of self-reported knee confidence and addressing modifiable factors (e.g., BMI, knee strength, depressive symptoms, lower limb pain) may improve its long-term course.

Osteoarticular tuberculosis (TB) of the ankle joint is rare, and there is a delay in diagnosis in most cases. All patients with the disease complained of swelling and pain in the affected ankle. Ankle TB is a disorder that can be simply misdiagnosed. The delay in diagnosis may range from months up to years. All patients in this series had already been diagnosed with ankle TB by the time they visited our hospital. The current case was reported in a middle-aged male nurse with ankle pain, ulcer, and limited range of movement. The classical clinical manifestations of TB were absent on free chest radiography. Ulcer biopsy showed TB infection with no lymph nodes. Nonspecific inflammation was initially treated, but, subsequently, anti-TB treatment was useful.

Background Bone tumours of the talus are a rare cause of ankle pain. This study aims to provide additional clinical clarity regarding the presentation and management of a minimally researched topic. Methods Sixteen patients were diagnosed with bone tumour of the talus between 2002 and 2020 following referral for ankle pain. Symptoms, diagnosis, and management were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were actively followed up until consistently symptom-free and consenting to discharge (mean of 2.9 years). An open appointment was offered to all patients to reattend the unit if symptoms recurred. Results The most common diagnosis was osteoid osteoma/osteoblastoma (nine patients), chondroblastoma (four patients), a giant cell tumour of bone, a chondral lesion in Ollier's disease and a rare metastatic renal cancer case. The mean age of onset was 29 years. Thirteen patients experienced ankle pain without a clear precipitating cause. Night pain was less common in osteoid osteoma/osteoblastoma than usually observed in the literature. The mean delay in diagnosis was two years, often due to an incorrect diagnosis of soft tissue injury. Plain radiographs are insufficient to identify most lesions. Ten patients underwent computed tomography (CT)-guided radiofrequency ablation and five patients had open surgical curettage. Ollier's disease was managed with orthotics. The five cases of recurrence across four patients were managed operatively. Conclusions Patients are usually young and healthy with benign disease, but talus tumours can cause significant functional impairment. Unexplained ankle pain should be extensively examined and be further investigated with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and CT scanning to avoid missing these rare tumours.

Aim: To assess the efficacy of the electron modulation procedure (EMP) in reducing chronic musculoskeletal pain acutely over distinct anatomical areas. Materials & methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of 223 patients who received a single EMP treatment for various chronic musculoskeletal pain issues. Pain levels, recorded before and after receiving EMP, were analyzed at distinct anatomical musculoskeletal areas. Results & conclusion: The effect of the EMP treatments in reducing musculoskeletal pain was statistically significant at the 5% level. Those with hip/gluteal and ankle pain had the highest (92%) and lowest (58%) pain elimination rate, respectively. Statistical evidence supported the idea that EMP treatment can quickly reduce musculoskeletal pain. Distinct anatomical musculoskeletal areas responded differently to EMP treatment.

Author(s): Besinger, Bart; Ryckman, Sydney | Abstract: Introduction: Septic malleolar bursitis is a rare cause of ankle pain and swelling. It has been described in certain occupational and recreational activities that involve tight-fitting boots, such as figure skating. Court-ordered electronic monitoring devices are often worn on the ankle. It is not known whether these devices are a risk factor for the development of malleolar bursitis.Case Report: We describe a 41-year-old male under house arrest with an electronic monitoring device on his right ankle who presented to our emergency department with several days of progressive pain and swelling over the medial malleolus. Point-of-care ultrasound revealed a thick-walled cystic structure consistent with medial malleolar bursitis. Bursal aspiration was performed. Fluid culture yielded Staphylococcus aureus.Discussion: Emergency physicians regularly see patients with ankle pain and swelling and must consider a comprehensive differential diagnosis. Septic malleolar bursitis is an uncommon but important cause of ankle pain and swelling that requires prompt diagnosis and intervention. Point-of-care ultrasonography may aid in the diagnosis. Additionally, emergency physicians should be aware of potential complications related to electronic monitoring devices.

BACKGROUND: Diagnosis and treatment of tendonitis/entrapment of the flexor hallucis longus (FHL) has been sporadically described in the evidence, primarily in the context of dancers and other athletes. Although various nonspecific nonoperative treatments have been described, it is not clear how often they achieve a satisfactory amount of symptom improvement. QUESTIONS/PURPOSES: The present study was designed to address the following questions regarding the nonoperative treatment of FHL tendonitis: (1) In a population of patients where the default management option for FHL tendonitis is a comprehensive nonsurgical approach, what proportion of patients thus treated opted not to have surgery? (2) What factors were associated with a patient's decision to undergo surgery after a period of nonsurgical management? METHODS: The 656 patients included were all those diagnosed with FHL tendonitis who were initially treated nonoperatively in the foot and ankle division between January 2009 and December 2018. Demographics, comorbidities, examination findings, imaging results, pain scores, treatment instituted, and final outcome were obtained from the electronic medical record. The primary outcome was the decision to have surgery due to unsatisfactory symptom improvement. We compared patients who opted for surgery with those who did not after nonoperative treatment with univariable and multivariable statistics using demographics, comorbidities, and clinical findings as potential risk factors, with p < 0.05. RESULTS: Forty-four percent (180 of 409) of patients decided to forgo surgery after the institution of a specific FHL stretching program. Surgery was more likely in patients with clinical hallux rigidus (OR 2.4 [95% CI 1.16 to 4.97]; p = 0.02) or posteromedial ankle pain (OR 1.78 [95% CI 1.12 to 2.83]; p = 0.01) and less likely in those who completed an FHL stretching program (OR 0.15 [95% CI 0.08 to 0.27]; p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: FHL tendonitis is more common than the previous evidence suggests and frequently occurs in nonathletes. Once it was diagnosed by detection of tenderness anywhere along the tendon, most frequently at the fibroosseous tunnel, nonoperative treatment focused on specific FHL stretching and immobilization in more severe cases reduced the symptoms to the extent that 44% of patients decided that surgery was unnecessary. The key to its diagnosis is awareness that this injury is possible because most patients treated in this study had been previously seen by orthopaedic providers who had not appreciated the presence of the condition, leading to a delay in diagnosis and treatment of more than a year in many patients. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, therapeutic study.

Enthesitis is a cardinal feature of spondyloarthropathies. The Achilles insertion on the calcaneus is a commonly evaluated enthesis located at the hindfoot, generally resulting in hindfoot pain and possible tendon enlargement. For decades, diagnosis of enthesitis was based upon patient history of hindfoot or posterior ankle pain and clinical examination revealing tenderness and/or enlargement at the site of the tendon insertion. However, not all hindfoot or posterior ankle symptoms are related to enthesitis. Advanced imaging, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasound (US), has allowed for more precise evaluation of hindfoot and posterior ankle conditions. Use of US in diagnosis has helped confirm some of these cases but also identified other conditions that may have otherwise been misclassified without use of advanced imaging diagnostics. Conditions that may result in hindfoot and posterior ankle symptoms related to the Achilles tendon include enthesitis (which can include retrocalcaneal bursitis and insertional tendonopathy), midportion tendonopathy, paratenonopathy, superficial calcaneal bursitis, calcaneal ossification (Haglund deformity), and calcific tendonopathy. With regard to classification of these conditions, much of the existing literature uses confusing nomenclature to describe conditions in this region of the body. Some terminology may imply inflammation when in fact there may be none. A more uniform approach to classifying these conditions based off anatomic location, symptoms, clinical findings, and histopathology is needed. There has been much debate regarding appropriate use of tendonitis when there is no true inflammation, calling instead for use of the terms tendinosis or tendonopathy. To date, there has not been clear examination of a similar overuse of the term enthesitis in conditions where there is no underlying inflammation, thus raising the need for more comprehensive taxonomy.

Background Injury or compression of a sensory nerve is an under-reported source of disabling pain in the lower limb. It is known that peripheral nerve microsurgeons can reconstruct and rewire injured nerves to relieve chronic pain but this option remains not completely understood and ignored by most orthopaedic surgeons, neurologists, and pain therapists. In this paper, we describe our experience with knee and ankle peripheral nerve surgery to improve the condition of patients suffering from chronic, posttraumatic lower limb pain. Patients and Methods Between 2015 and 2018, a retrospective investigation was performed including patients who underwent ankle and knee nerve surgery for posttraumatic chronic pain with at least 1 year of follow-up. Previous surgeries or type of trauma, pain location and characteristics, type of operation (reconstruction, decompression, or denervation), and number of nerves operated were listed. Selective neuropathy was confirmed by ultrasound-guided nerve blocks. Outcome was assessed combining the visual analogue scale (VAS) score at rest and during movement, functional indexes, drug use, and ability to work. Results A total of 34 patients (14 knee and 20 ankle) were included in this study. A statistically significant difference (p Conclusion Peripheral nerve microsurgery is a useful and minimally invasive tool to be added in the algorithm of treatment of chronic knee and ankle pain. Physicians should be trained to suspect a neuropathic origin of pain in absence of musculoskeletal signs of pathology, especially following trauma or surgeries.

Background In children, fracture non-union is uncommon yet, curiously, non-union of distal fibula fractures are rarely reported. Historically, the most common treatment of a lateral malleolus fracture after an ankle sprain is conservative, which usually leads to fracture union. However, even in clinically stable ankles, subsequent pain arising from fracture site could suggest non-union, thereby necessitating reexamination and possible secondary treatment. Case presentation We report the case of an 8-year-old girl with an epiphyseal distal fibula fracture complicated with a symptomatic non-union associated with the chondral flap of the talar dome after conservative treatment. Surgical excision of the fragment and chondroplasty was performed and resulted in an excellent clinical outcome. Conclusion This case report illustrates the necessity of particularly meticulous evaluation of pediatric post-traumatic ankle pain. Surgical treatment as well as talar chondral evaluation should be taken into consideration in the treatment of pediatric distal fibular nonunion.

Background This study aimed to investigate the change in ankle varus incongruencies following total knee replacement (TKR) in patients with preoperative genu varum deformity of ≥10°. Methods The study cohort was composed of patients who underwent TKR in a single institution for knee osteoarthritis with preoperative genu varum deformity of ≥10° and concomitant varus ankle incongruencies. Eight radiographic measurements were evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively: mechanical tibiofemoral angle, mechanical lateral distal femoral angle, medial proximal tibial angle, lateral distal tibial angle, tibial plafond inclination, talar inclination, tibiotalar tilt angle (TTTA), and tibia-mechanical axis angle. Of these, TTTA represented the quantitative degree of ankle joint incongruency. Results A total of 110 patients (male = 2; female = 108) were included in the analysis. The mean patient age was 68.9 (standard deviation [SD] 7.2) years at the time of TKR. All radiographic measurements showed significant changes postoperatively, representing the appropriate correction of genu varum deformity and restoration of the mechanical axis. Nineteen patients (17.3%) showed postoperative decrease in TTTA, 2 (1.8%) remained the same, and 89 (80.9%) showed increase. Overall, mean preoperative and postoperative TTTA were 3.3° (SD 2.2°) and 4.7° (SD 2.9°), respectively (P Conclusion Varus ankle incongruencies showed aggravation following TKR despite correction of genu varum deformity and restoration of the mechanical axis. This could be an important cause of postoperative increase or development of ankle pain following TKR. Therefore, patients with preoperative varus ankle incongruencies need to be warned of possible aggravation of ankle symptoms and be evaluated before TKR. Level of Evidence Prognostic level III.

Backgrounds Poor prognosis was reported for complex Pilon fractures involving severe soft tissue damage. It is therefore useful to explore the evolution of different treatment strategies in an effort to reconstruct the axial alignment and articular surface, while minimizing additional damage to the surrounding soft tissues. Methods Seventeen patients with Pilon fractures were enrolled in this retrospective study from December 2009 to October 2014. The injuries were graded according to AO Classification and the Gustilo-Anderson system. Patients were treated with minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) combined with curved incision on the anterior area of ankle. The ankle function and radiological outcome were assessed by the modified Mazur ankle score and Burwell-Charnley criteria, respectively. Visual analogue score (VAS) score was used to assess the degree of patient’s ankle pain, and related complications were also recorded. Results The mean time for fracture healing was 3.6 months (range: 3–6 months). According to Mazur’s criteria, surgical treatment achieved good or excellent outcome in 15 (88.2%) cases, and the average VAS score was 1.19 ± 0.52. On the basis of Burwell-Charnley score, 12 (70.5%) patients achieved anatomic recovery, 4 (23.5%) obtained good reduction, and only 1 (5.9%) patient was diagnosed with valgus deformity. Additionally, 1 (5.9%) patient developed a superficial infection around incision, and 2 (11.8%) experienced superficial peroneal nerve damage. In addition, 2 (11.8%) patients showed radiographic evidence of existing ankle osteoarthritis at the final follow-up. Conclusions This retrospective study is the first to assess the application of a curved incision on the anterior area of ankle with MIPO for the treatment of Pilon fractures, which achieves high functional recovery with a low complication rate. However, large randomized controlled trials comparing different approaches and fixation methods are still needed to conclusively identify the optimal treatment protocol.

Peroneal tendon tears are relatively common and often the result of athletic activity. The peroneus brevis (PB) tendon is injured most frequently, due to its vulnerable position between the peroneus longus (PL) tendon and the fibula. Plantar flexion and inversion are the most common mechanisms of injury, although there are other anatomical and etiological factors that can lead to peroneal tendinopathy. The most common presenting symptom is posterolateral ankle pain centered at, just above, or just below the tip of the fibula. Both ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are excellent imaging modalities to identify tendon tear, but not all tears can be directly visualized with current technology. The treatment of symptomatic tears is usually operative, and there are numerous techniques to address the injured tendon depending on the degree of pathology and functional expectations of the patient.

Chondromyxoid fibroma is a rare bone tumor with cartilaginous differentiation which presents less than 1% of bone tumors. It is a benign lesion and occurs in the fibula in less than 10% of the cases. A 25-year-old with no medical history, right-hander, and long-distance running athlete who consulted in our orthopedic department for right ankle pain. This symptom dates back to 6 weeks and considerably hampered his professional sports activities. This mechanical ankle pain is next to the external malleolus without irradiation and subsides with usual analgesics. The clinical examination was poor. There was no swelling. Bony landmarks were painless. Motion range was normal. The neurovascular exam did not find any abnormalities. X-rays showed a rounded and well-defined lytic bone lesion located in the external malleolus and classified Lodwick Ia (A,B). Due to the benign aspect, we decided to perform an excisional biopsy with a cancellous autograft. The gesture was performed by a lateral approach under loco-regional anesthesia. The graft was taken from the proximal tibial epiphysis through a small internal incision. The patient resumed his training after 2 months, and returned to his professional sports level after 3 months. At the last follow-up of 6 months, the patient had not reported any symptoms and the radiological control was satisfying (C,D).

Peroneal tendinopathy is a common source of lateral-sided foot and ankle pain. Once the tendons and/or muscle bellies have become severely degenerated or rupture, repair may not be an option. Additionally, allograft reconstruction is contraindicated if the peroneal muscle belly is nonfunctional as in cases of atrophy or significant scarring. Flexor digitorum longus (FDL) transfer to the base of the fifth metatarsal is a viable option for nonrepairable/nonreconstruction peroneal tendons. The FDL transfer is a safe and successful procedure which restores function and reliably decreases pain.