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Objective: To compare the performance of an extended model and a simplified prognostic model for joint damage in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) based on 3 baseline risk factors: anticyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies (anti-CCP), erosions, and acute-phase reaction., Methods: Data were used from the Nijmegen early RA cohort. An extended model and a simplified baseline prediction model were developed to predict joint damage progression between 0 and 3 years. Joint damage progression was assessed using the Ratingen score. In the extended model, prediction factors were positivity for anti-CCP and/or rheumatoid factor, the level of erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and the quantity of erosions. The prediction score was calculated as the sum of the regression coefficients. In the simplified model, the prediction factors were dichotomized and the number of risk factors was counted. Performances of both models were compared using discrimination and calibration. The models were internally validated using bootstrapping., Results: The extended model resulted in a prediction score between 0 and 5.6 with an area under the receiver-operation characteristic (ROC) curve of 0.77 (95% CI 0.72-0.81). The simplified model resulted in a prediction score between 0 and 3. This model had an area under the ROC curve of 0.75 (95% CI 0.70-0.80). In internal validation, the 2 models showed reasonably well the agreement between observed and predicted probabilities for joint damage progression (Hosmer-Lemeshow test p > 0.05 and calibration slope near 1.0)., Conclusion: A simple prediction model for joint damage progression in early RA, by only counting the number of risk factors, has adequate performance. This facilitates the translation of the theoretical prognostic models to daily clinical practice.

This study aims to identify the clinical predictors of arthritis in patients with psoriasis and to evaluate the use of musculoskeletal ultrasonography (US) as a predictor for inflammatory structural progression in psoriatic patients. Measures of association (odds ratio (OR)) were tested, in a prospective, cohort 1-year follow-up study, between structural deterioration and the presence of baseline inflammation, or its persistence. One hundred twenty-six psoriatic patients were prospectively evaluated both clinically and by US at 0, 6, and 12 months for synovitis/ joint damage, enthesitis, and onychopathy. X-ray was performed at 0 and 12 months. One hundred twelve sex and age-matched pasoriatic patients without histories of musculoskeletal symptoms were included as control group. Structural deterioration was observed in 47% of the 5,292 evaluated joints. Clinical variables associated with arthritis risk: BMI > 25 (OR = 1.7), body surface area (OR = 1.13), family history (OR = 5.72) and nail involvement (OR = 2.25). BMI > 30 was significantly correlated (P < 0.01) with shorter time for the onset of arthritis. Baseline synovial score/PD score ≥ 2 was associated with increased risk of structural progression: OR = 1.98 versus 2.61 versus 2.66 (P < 0.001) for the clinical versus US-gray scale (GS) versus US-power Doppler (PD) evaluation, respectively. An increased probability for structural progression in the presence of enthesitis was observed (OR = 2.79 and 3.50) for both US-GS and US-PD, whereas OR was 2.46 for clinical examination. Onychopathy was associated with structural joint damage (OR = 2.30). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, persistent of synovitis/enthesitis at 6 months of therapy was predictive of subsequent structural progression. Family history of psoriatic arthritis, large BMI (>25), high percentage of psoriatic body surface area, and nail involvement were significantly associated with early onset psoriatic arthritis. Baseline GS score of ≥2, PD score of ≥2, presence of enthesitis, enhanced vascularity at enthesitis, higher GUESS score, and onychopathy, all at base line as well as persistent synovitis and enthesitis at 6 months are predictors of progressive early psoriatic arthritis. Regular ultrasonographic monitoring of these patients is mandatory to assess the progression of their arthritis status.

Background: The aim of this study was to explore the correlation between the kinematics of the hindfoot joint and the medial arch angle change in stage II posterior tibial tendon dysfunction flatfoot three-dimensionally under loading., Methods: Computed tomography (CT) scans of 12 healthy feet and 12 feet with stage II posterior tibial tendon dysfunction flatfoot were taken both in non- and full-body-weight-bearing condition. The CT images of the hindfoot bones were reconstructed into three-dimensional models with Mimics and Geomagic reverse engineering software. The three-dimensional changes of the hindfoot joint were calculated to determine their correlation to the medial longitudinal arch angle., Findings: The medial arch angle change was larger in stage II posterior tibial tendon dysfunction flatfoot compared to that in healthy foot under loading. The rotation and translation of the talocalcaneal joint, the talonavicular joint and the calcanocuboid joint had little influence on the change of the medial arch angle in healthy foot. However, the eversion of the talocalcaneal joint, the proximal translation of the calcaneus relative to the talus and the dorsiflexion of talonavicular joint could increase the medial arch angle in stage II posterior tibial tendon dysfunction flatfoot under loading., Interpretation: Joint instability occurred in patients with stage II posterior tibial tendon dysfunction flatfoot under loading. Limitation of over movement of the talocalcaneal joint and the talonavicular joint may help correct the medial longitudinal arch in stage II posterior tibial tendon dysfunction flatfoot., (Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background and Purpose: Charcot neuropathy is characterized by bone destruction in a foot leading to deformity, instability, and risk of amputation. Little is known about the pathogenic mechanisms. We hypothesized that the bone-regulating Wnt/β-catenin and RANKL/OPG pathways have a role in Charcot arthropathy., Patients and Methods: 24 consecutive Charcot patients were treated by off-loading, and monitored for 2 years by repeated foot radiography, MRI, and circulating levels of sclerostin, dickkopf-1, Wnt inhibitory factor-1, Wnt ligand-1, OPG, and RANKL. 20 neuropathic diabetic controls and 20 healthy controls served as the reference., Results: Levels of sclerostin, Dkk-1 and Wnt-1, but not of Wif-1, were significantly lower in Charcot patients than in the diabetic controls at inclusion. Dkk-1 and Wnt-1 levels responded to off-loading by increasing. Sclerostin levels were significantly higher in the diabetic controls than in the other groups whereas Wif-1 levels were significantly higher in the healthy controls than in the other groups. OPG and RANKL levels were significantly higher in the Charcot patients than in the other groups at inclusion, but decreased to the levels in healthy controls at 2 years. OPG/RANKL ratio was balanced in all groups at inclusion, and it remained balanced in Charcot patients on repeated measurement throughout the study., Interpretation: High plasma RANKL and OPG levels at diagnosis of Charcot suggest that there is high bone remodeling activity before gradually normalizing after off-loading treatment. The consistently balanced OPG/RANKL ratio in Charcot patients suggests that there is low-key net bone building activity by this pathway following diagnosis and treatment. Inter-group differences at diagnosis and changes in Wnt signaling following off-loading treatment were sufficiently large to be reflected by systemic levels, indicating that this pathway has a role in bone remodeling and bone repair activity in Charcot patients. This is of particular clinical relevance considering the recent emergence of promising drugs that target this system.

The aim of this study is to test the performance of a matrix model to predict rapid radiological progression (RRP) in a study population of early rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or undifferentiated arthritis (UA) patients. A matrix model using baseline CRP, erosion score, autoantibody status, and initial treatment choice to predict RRP (increase ≥5 points in Sharp-van der Heijde score (SHS) in 1 year) was derived from the BeSt study where patients with active RA (1987-criteria) were treated with initial monotherapy or combination therapy, aiming at low disease activity. In the IMPROVED study, patients with early RA (2010 criteria) and UA were initially treated with methotrexate and prednisone aiming at remission. A receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve was used to assess the discriminative value of the model to predict damage progression in the IMPROVED population. Four hundred thirty-one out of 479 patients with RA and 106/122 with UA could be categorized as high, intermediate, low, or very low risk for RRP. One patient, with a very low risk profile, showed RRP. Thirty-two other patients (5 %) showed radiological progression ≥0.5 point SHS; none had a high risk profile and 22 had a very low risk profile. The area under the curve (AUC) of the ROC curve was 0.56 (95% CI 0.45; 0.68). A matrix model predicting RRP based on risk factors identified in recent onset active RA according to the 1987-criteria performed poorly in recent onset RA (2010 criteria) and UA. It appears that known risk factors for damage progression lose their impact with early remission steered treatment, so that RRP might be considered a phenomenon of the past.

Objective: To assess the efficacy and safety of tocilizumab (TCZ) plus methotrexate/placebo (MTX/PBO) over 2 years and the course of disease activity in patients who discontinued TCZ due to sustained remission., Methods: ACT-RAY was a double-blind 3-year trial. Patients with active rheumatoid arthritis despite MTX were randomised to add TCZ to ongoing MTX (add-on strategy) or switch to TCZ plus PBO (switch strategy). Using a treat-to-target approach, open-label conventional synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (csDMARDs), other than MTX, were added from week 24 if Disease Activity Score in 28 joints based on erythrocyte sedimentation rate (DAS28-ESR) >3.2. Between weeks 52 and 104, patients in sustained clinical remission (DAS28-ESR <2.6 at two consecutive visits 12 weeks apart) discontinued TCZ and were assessed every 4 weeks for 1 year. If sustained remission was maintained, added csDMARDs, then MTX/PBO, were discontinued., Results: Of the 556 randomised patients, 76% completed year 2. Of patients entering year 2, 50.4% discontinued TCZ after achieving sustained remission and 5.9% achieved drug-free remission. Most patients who discontinued TCZ (84.0%) had a subsequent flare, but responded well to TCZ reintroduction. Despite many patients temporarily stopping TCZ, radiographic progression was minimal, with differences favouring add-on treatment. Rates of serious adverse events and serious infections per 100 patient-years were 12.2 and 4.4 in add-on and 15.0 and 3.7 in switch patients. In patients with normal baseline values, alanine aminotransferase elevations >3×upper limit of normal were more frequent in add-on (14.3%) versus switch patients (5.4%)., Conclusions: Treat-to-target strategies could be successfully implemented with TCZ to achieve sustained remission, after which TCZ was stopped. Biologic-free remission was maintained for about 3 months, but most patients eventually flared. TCZ restart led to rapid improvement., Trial Registration Number: NCT00810199., (Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://group.bmj.com/group/rights-licensing/permissions.)

Objective: We retrospectively investigated the inhibitory effect on radiographic joint damage (RJD) for non-biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (non-bioDMARD) monotherapy or methotrexate (MTX) combination therapy for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in the disease activity score with 28 joint counts with erythrocyte sedimentation rate (DAS28) remission., Methods: Eighty-four patients (55 cases of monotherapy, 29 cases of MTX-combination therapy) in DAS28 remission (DAS28 ≤ 2.6) were investigated from 538 RA patients newly registered between February 2007 and August 2010. The patients were analyzed for radiological assessments using the modified total Sharp score/year (mTSS/y)., Results: The remission rates and ΔmTSS/y for each agent using monotherapy were 7.1% and 0.17 for sulfasalazine; 11.9% and 0.49 for bucillamine (BUC); and 23.9% and 2.06 for MTX. Those using combination therapy were 6.8% and 1.39 for MTX + BUC; 23.5% and -1.64 for MTX + leflunomide; and 8.0% and 0.31 for MTX + tacrolimus. The cumulative distribution in the single and combination therapy groups showed improvement of percentages in structural remission from baseline to 1-year treatment, 34.1% to 60.9% (P < 0.05) and from 0% to 56.7%(P < 0.0001), respectively. Baseline mTSS (r = 0.67, P < 0.0001), disease duration (r = 0.40, P < 0.01), swollen joint counts (r = 0.33, P < 0.05), and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibody (r = 0.31, P < 0.05) were useful predictors of RJD for non-bioDMARD monotherapy, but not for combination therapy., Conclusion: Satisfactory inhibition of RJD was observed in the DAS28 remission cases of monotherapy or MTX combination therapy with a non-bioDMARD.

The aim of our observational study was to investigate the clinical significance of interleukin (IL)-34, a novel osteoclastogenic cytokine, for predicting structural damage in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Serum IL-34 levels were measured in 100 RA patients, 36 patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS), and 59 gender- and age-matched healthy individuals using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. We also measured IL-34 concentrations in synovial fluid (SF) samples from 18 RA patients and 19 osteoarthritis (OA) patients. Progression of structural damage was assessed in 81 patients with RA by plain radiographs using the modified Sharp/van der Heijde score (SHS) at baseline and after an average 1.6-year follow-up period. Serum IL-34 levels were significantly higher in patients with RA (p < 0.001) or AS (p < 0.001) than in healthy controls. SF IL-34 levels were also significantly higher in RA patients than in OA patients (p < 0.001). In RA, serum IL-34 levels were associated with rheumatoid factor positivity (p = 0.01), current smoking (p < 0.01), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (p = 0.01), and C-reactive protein levels (p < 0.01), but not with disease activity score 28. ΔSHS/year was positively correlated with serum IL-34 levels (r = 0.443, p < 0.001). In multivariate logistic regression analyses, serum IL-34 level was an independent risk factor for radiographic progression. These results suggest that IL-34, a novel osteoclastogenic cytokine, plays a role in RA-associated joint damage and is a potential biomarker for predicting subsequent radiographic progression in patients with RA.

Objectives: To estimate the population prevalence of symptomatic radiographic osteoarthritis (OA) affecting the 1st metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ), 1st and 2nd cuneometatarsal joints (CMJs), navicular first cuneiform joint (NCJ) and talonavicular joint (TNJ) in community-dwelling older adults., Methods: 9334 adults aged ≥50 years registered with four general practices were mailed a health survey. Responders reporting foot pain within the last 12 months were invited to undergo weight-bearing dorso-plantar and lateral radiographs of both feet. OA at the 1st MTPJ, 1st and 2nd CMJs, NCJ and TNJ was graded using a validated atlas. Population prevalence estimates for symptomatic radiographic foot OA overall and for each joint were calculated using multiple imputation and weighted logistic regression modelling to account for missing data and non-response., Results: 5109 health surveys were received (adjusted response 56%). Radiographs were obtained on 557 participants. Overall population prevalence of symptomatic radiographic OA was 16.7% (95% CI 15.3% to 18.0%), 1st MTPJ 7.8% (6.7% to 8.9%), 1st CMJ 3.9% (2.9% to 4.9%), 2nd CMJ 6.8% (5.7% to 7.8%), NCJ 5.2% (4.0% to 6.4%) and TNJ 5.8% (4.8% to 6.9%). With the exception of the 1st CMJ, prevalence was greater in females than males, increased with age and was higher in lower socioeconomic classes. Three-quarters of those with symptomatic radiographic OA reported disabling foot symptoms., Conclusions: While cautious interpretation due to non-response is warranted, our study suggests that symptomatic radiographic foot OA affects one in six older adults and the majority report associated disability. Clinicians should consider OA as a possible cause of chronic foot pain in older people., (Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://group.bmj.com/group/rights-licensing/permissions.)

Objective: Report on radiographic effects and maintenance of clinical benefit with intravenous golimumab 2 mg/kg+methotrexate (MTX) for up to week (wk) 52 in active rheumatoid arthritis (RA)., Methods: Patients (n=592) with active RA (≥6/66 swollen, ≥6/68 tender joints, C reactive protein (CRP) ≥1.0 mg/dL and positive for rheumatoid factor and/or anticyclic citrullinated protein antibody at screening) despite MTX ≥3 months (stable dose of 15-25 mg/week for ≥4 weeks) participated in this multicentre, international, randomised, double blind, placebo controlled, phase 3 study. Patients were randomised (2:1) to receive intravenous golimumab 2 mg/kg or placebo infusions at weeks 0 and 4 and then every 8 weeks; patients continued their stable MTX regimen. Placebo patients started golimumab 2 mg/kg at wk16 (early escape; <10% improvement in tender and swollen joints) or wk24 (crossover by design). Week 24 and wk52 radiographic (van der Heijde-Sharp (vdH-S) scores), clinical efficacy and safety data up to 1 year are reported here., Results: Significant and rapid clinical improvement was observed up to wk24 of intravenous golimumab therapy. Golimumab+MTX treated patients demonstrated less radiographic progression than placebo treated patients at wk24 (vdH-S score mean change 0.03 vs 1.09; p<0.001) and wk52 (0.13 vs 1.22; p=0.001). Among patients with ≥20% improvement in the American College of Rheumatology response criteria or who achieved a 'good' or 'moderate' response according to the 28 joint Disease Activity Score employing CRP at wk24, approximately 80% maintained this response up until wk52. Through an average of 43.5 weeks of follow-up, 64.6% of patients receiving golimumab+MTX reported adverse events, most commonly non-serious infections., Conclusions: In patients with active RA despite MTX, intravenous golimumab+MTX yielded significant inhibition of structural damage at wk24 and wk52, and sustained clinical improvement in signs and symptoms with no new safety signals up to 1 year., Clinicaltrialsgov: NCT00973479, EudraCT 2008-006 064-11., (Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://group.bmj.com/group/rights-licensing/permissions.)

Background: Although plain radiographs have been historically used to evaluate the status of arthrodesis in the foot and ankle, computed tomography (CT) has gained popularity for evaluation of fusion status. The degree of fusion identified on CT scan has been correlated with functional outcome, with an arthrodesis area of 25-50% necessary for clinical success. In the clinical setting, orthopaedic surgeons often evaluate CT scans independently. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the interrater reliability of CT scans to assess the status of hindfoot or ankle fusions among orthopaedic foot and ankle surgeons., Methods: Forty-one CT scans were identified retrospectively from the tertiary referral practices of 4 fellowship-trained orthopaedic foot and ankle surgeons. Inclusion criteria were patients with ankle, subtalar, or tibiotalocalcaneal fusions. Fusions with bulk allograft were excluded. All CT scans were completed at the investigating institution. The primary author (RAC) reviewed all CT scans to ensure the adequacy and completeness of the films. Images were blinded of any patient identifiers. All 4 surgeons individually reviewed the blinded scans and determined whether the arthrodesis site was greater than or less than 50% fused. Interrater reliability was completed via kappa analysis., Results: Based on kappa analysis, there was high interrater reliability in the assessment of subtalar arthrodesis. This was not statistically significant for the evaluation of ankle arthrodesis., Conclusion: The CT scan has become instrumental in determining the adequacy of arthrodesis in the foot and ankle. The present study demonstrates the reliability of orthopaedic surgeons to ascertain the status of subtalar arthrodesis via CT scan., Level of Evidence: Level IV, case series., (© The Author(s) 2014.)

Subtalar dislocation is a rare injury caused by high-energy trauma. Current treatment strategies include leg casts, internal fixation and external fixation. Among these, external fixators are the most commonly used as this method is believed to provide better stabilization. However, the biomechanical stability provided by these fixators has not been demonstrated. This biomechanical study compares two commonly used external fixators, i.e. Mitkovic and Delta. CT imaging data were used to reconstruct three-dimensional models of the tibia, fibula, talus, calcaneus, navicular, cuboid, three cuneiforms and five metatarsal bones. The 3D models of the bones and cartilages were then converted into four-noded linear tetrahedral elements, whilst the ligaments were modelled with linear spring elements. Bones and cartilage were idealized as homogeneous, isotropic and linear. To simulate loading during walking, axial loading (70 N during the swing and 350 N during the stance phase) was applied at the end of diaphyseal tibia. The results demonstrate that the Mitkovic fixator produced greater displacement (peak 3.0mm and 15.6mm) compared to the Delta fixator (peak 0.8mm and 3.9 mm), in both the swing and stance phase, respectively. This study demonstrates that the Delta external fixator provides superior stability over the Mitkovic fixator. The Delta fixator may be more effective in treating subtalar dislocation., (Copyright © 2014 IPEM. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Objective: We recently reported an association of the SPP1 rs9138 and rs11439060 functional variants with the risk of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), the association being greater in anti-citrullinated protein autoantibody (ACPA)-negative patients. We hypothesised that SPP1 may contribute to the severity of joint destruction in RA, specifically in the ACPA-negative population., Methods: Patients with RA in the ESPOIR cohort underwent genotyping for SPP1 rs9138 and rs11439060. Radiographs of the hands and feet were obtained at the first visit and at 1- and 2-year follow-up. Association analyses were performed by ACPA status. A replication study of the relevant subset of the Leiden Early Arthritis Clinic (EAC) cohort was performed., Results: In the ESPOIR cohort (652 patients), rs9138 was significantly associated with radiological progression of joint destruction at 2 years, the association being restricted to 358 ACPA-negative patients (p=0.034). In the replication study with the Leiden EAC cohort (273 ACPA-negative patients), rs4754, which is in complete linkage disequilibrium with rs9138, was significantly associated with joint damage progression in ACPA-negative patients at 2- and 7-year follow-up (p=0.019 and p=0.005, respectively). Combined analysis of the two cohorts revealed a 0.95-fold rate of joint destruction per year per minor allele (p=0.022)., Conclusions: The SPP1 rs9138 variant contributes to joint damage progression in ACPA-negative RA., (Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://group.bmj.com/group/rights-licensing/permissions.)

Lisfranc fracture-dislocation can be a devastating injury with significant long-term sequelae, including degenerative joint disease, progressive arch collapse, and chronic pain that can be potentiated if not effectively treated. We present a case to demonstrate our preferred surgical approach, consisting of combined medial column primary arthrodesis, middle column open reduction internal fixation, and lateral column pinning, with the primary goal of minimizing common long-term complications associated with Lisfranc injuries. We present the case of a typical patient treated according to this combined surgical approach to highlight our patient selection criteria, rationale, surgical technique, and operative pearls. A 36-year-old male who had sustained a homolateral Lisfranc fracture-dislocation injury after falling from a height initially underwent fasciotomy for foot compartment syndrome. The subsequent repair 16 days later involved primary first tarsometatarsal joint fusion, open reduction internal fixation of the second and third tarsometatarsal joints, and temporary pinning of the fourth and fifth tarsometatarsal joints. He progressed well postoperatively, exhibiting an American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons forefoot score of 90 of 100 at 1 year after surgery with no need for subsequent treatment. Lisfranc fracture-dislocations often exhibit primary dislocation to the medial column and are conducive to arthrodesis to stabilize the tarsometatarsal complex. The middle column frequently involves comminuted intra-articular fractures and will often benefit from less dissection required for open reduction internal fixation instead of primary fusion. We propose that this surgical approach is a viable alternative technique for primary treatment of Lisfranc fracture-dislocation injuries., (Copyright © 2014 American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

To determine the frequency of anticyclic citrullinated peptide (CCP) antibodies in a cohort of psoriatic arthritis (PsA) patients and to compare clinical, serological and radiological characteristics between PsA patients with and without anti-CCP antibodies. Patients with PsA, according to classification criteria for PsA, were consecutively recruited from an outpatient rheumatology clinic. Demographic and clinical data were collected in all cases. Serum samples from all patients were analyzed for rheumatoid factor and anti-CCP antibodies. Radiographs of hands and feet were obtained and the presence of erosions was recorded. The study included 81 patients; 43 (53 %) were men, with a median age of 45.7 years (interquartile range (IQR) 39-72) and median disease duration of 9.4 years (IQR 2-14). Anti-CCP antibodies were found in 11 patients (13.5 %), median titer 174.9 U/ml. Polyarticular involvement (72.7 vs. 17.1 %), frequency of erosive disease (72.7 vs. 37.1 %) and use of tumor necrosis factor-α inhibitors (54.5 vs. 28.5 %) were significantly higher in PsA patients with anti-CCP positivity. Anti-CCP negative PsA patients had predominantly more oligoarticular (62.8 vs. 27.2 %) and nail (81.4 vs. 36.3 %) involvement. Presence of enthesitis, dactylitis and Psoriasis Area Severity Index scores were similar in both groups. Anti-CCP antibodies were found in a subset of PsA patients, and their presence was associated with more severe disease phenotype. Further studies in a larger population are needed to define the role of anti-CCP as a biomarker of erosive disease in PsA.

Objective: To investigate the efficacy and safety of abatacept for treating patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in routine clinical practice., Methods: We performed a retrospective study of 137 RA patients who were treated with abatacept for 24 weeks between October 2010 and June 2011 at four rheumatology centers in Japan. Outcomes were compared between biologic-naïve and biologic-experienced patients. Disease activity was assessed using the Simplified Disease Activity Index (SDAI) and the 28-joint Disease Activity Score based on the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (DAS28-ESR)., Results: The retention rate of abatacept at 24 weeks was 79.6%. SDAI (from 24.6 ± 12.5 to 12.9 ± 11.6) and DAS28-ESR (from 5.2 ± 1.4 to 3.9 ± 1.4) decreased significantly from baseline to Week 24 (both P < 0.001). Remission/low disease activity were achieved in 2.2%/11.2% (SDAI) and in 5.3%/2.3% (DAS28-ESR). The change in SDAI and the remission/low disease activity rates at Week 24 was greater in biologic-naïve patients than in biologic-experienced patients. Structural remission (van der Heijde-modified total Sharp score ≤ 0.5) was achieved by 63.4% of patients., Conclusions: The present results confirm that abatacept is effective in routine clinical practice and support its use as the first-line biologic agent in patients.

Background: Malunited fractures of the metatarsals seldom need correction because the adjacent joints proximally and distally are not axially loaded but they may cause significant pain when a subcapital fracture is malunited too far in a plantar direction., Method: Even if a metatarsal head is malunited too dorsally the neighboring head signals transfer metatarsalgia. Therefore, reorientation osteotomy with the intraoperative help of a minidistractor and stable fixation with a small locking plate is needed. Painful nonunion, especially of the proximal fifth metatarsal needs improvement of the biology (e.g. autogenous bone graft) and of the biomechanics (e.g. stable osteosynthesis) if for example pulsed ultrasound treatment fails., Results: The importance of these small foot joints is illustrated by reopening the iatrogenically fused metatarso-cuboidal joint and making a new joint by interposition of crural fascia being crucial for a pain-free and fully functioning foot. The special biomechanics of the first ray is stressed by the secondary reconstruction of the first metatarsal showing a huge bony defect and poor surrounding soft tissues by performing callus distraction.

Background: Smoking is a risk factor for the development of anti -citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPA) positive rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Whether smoking predisposes to severe joint damage progression is not known, since deleterious, protective and neutral observations have been made., Objective: To determine the effect of smoking on joint damage progression., Methods: Smoking status was assessed in 3158 RA patients included in six cohorts (Leiden Early Arthritis Clinic (Leiden-EAC), BARFOT, Lund, Iceland, NDB and Wichita). In total 9412 radiographs were assessed. Multivariate normal regression and linear regression analyses were performed. Data were summarised in a random effects inverse variance meta-analysis., Results: When comparing radiological progression for RA patients that were never, past and current smokers, smoking was significantly associated with more severe joint damage in Leiden-EAC (p=0.042) and BARFOT (p=0.015) RA patients. No significant associations were found in the other cohorts, though a meta-analysis on the six cohorts showed significantly more severe joint damage progression in smokers (p=0.01). Since smoking predisposes to ACPA, analyses were repeated with ACPA as additional adjustment factor. Then the association was lost (meta-analysis p=0.29)., Conclusions: This multi-cohort study indicated that the effect of smoking on joint damage is mediated via ACPA and that smoking is not an independent risk factor for radiological progression in RA., (Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://group.bmj.com/group/rights-licensing/permissions.)

This study explored three dimensional (3D) talonavicular joint (TNJ) coverage/orientation and bone morphology to reveal parameters that could classify and identify predispositions to cavus and planus feet. 3D models of 65 feet from 40 subjects were generated from computed tomography images classified as pes cavus, neutrally aligned, or asymptomatic/symptomatic pes planus. We calculated the talar and navicular overlap (TNJ coverage). We also measured orientation of the navicular, morphological parameters of the talus and navicular, and angular position of the talar head to body. Pes cavus showed significantly less talonavicular coverage (58 ± 2% talus and 86 ± 2% navicular) compared to asymptomatic pes planus (63 ± 2% and 95 ± 2%) and neutrally aligned feet (98 ± 2% navicular), and significantly more navicular dorsiflexion and adduction relative to the talus (p < 0.0083). The talar head in cavus feet was inverted relative to the body compared to planus feet (p < 0.0083). For symptomatic pes planus, significant abduction was measured for the navicular relative to the talus and the talar head was plantar flexed relative to the body (p < 0.0083). The talar head in planus feet was everted relative to the body compared to neutrally aligned feet. Both intrinsic (bone morphology) and extrinsic (bone position) differences exist in groups of feet described as cavus and planus., (© 2014 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

Objective: To investigate the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and of insulin resistance (IR) in an ethnically homogeneous cohort of established psoriatic arthritis (PsA), and to identify clinical associations of MetS and IR in patients with PsA., Methods: A cohort of 283 patients with PsA all meeting ClASsification for Psoriatic ARthritis (CASPAR) criteria was included. All underwent detailed skin and rheumatologic assessments, along with cardiovascular risk factor evaluation. IR was defined as an elevated homeostasis model assessment (HOMA-IR) value of > 2.5. Severe PsA was defined as the presence of 1 or more of the PsA-related radiographic damage features (peripheral joint erosions, osteolysis, sacroiliitis), and PsA requiring tumor necrosis factor inhibitor therapy., Results: The demographic and clinical characteristics of the cohort were mean age 54.6 ± 12 years, 52% female, mean PsA duration 19 ± 9 years. MetS was present in 44% of the studied patients (n = 283). On multiple regression analysis, a significant association of MetS was noted with more severe PsA (OR 4.47, p < 0.001), higher smoking pack-years (OR 1.03, p = 0.02), and worse EQ-5D scores (OR 1.28, p = 0.02). Data on IR were available for 263 patients, and among them, the mean HOMA-IR was 1.43 ± 1.09. Forty-one patients (16%) had IR. On multiple regression analysis, a significant association of IR was noted with more severe PsA (OR 3.49, p = 0.03), later psoriasis age of onset (OR 1.07, p = 0.001), and higher body mass index (OR 1.22, p < 0.001)., Conclusion: Among patients with PsA, MetS and IR are highly prevalent, and are independently associated with the severity of underlying PsA.

Triple arthrodesis has traditionally been the procedure of choice for end-stage adult-acquired flatfoot. The results have been universally good, and it has proven to be dependable and predictable. Nonetheless, complications have been reported following triple arthrodesis in certain patients. Selective arthrodesis of the talonavicular joint and subtalar joint through a single medial approach has been developed as an alternative. The authors especially prefer this procedure with severe transverse plane deformity and often choose this approach as an alternative to triple arthrodesis in high-risk patients, including those patients with diabetes mellitus, rheumatoid arthritis, long-term steroid use, and the elderly., (Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Arthrodesis is a common procedure indicated for surgical treatment of end-stage degenerative joint disease of the foot and ankle. Many published studies have reviewed the union rate, focusing on specific technique or fixation. However, studies reporting on the average period required to achieve fusion, irrespective of the type of fixation or surgical method used, have been lacking. We report on the union rate and interval to fusion in patients who had undergone primary arthrodesis of various joints of the foot and ankle. A retrospective review of the medical records of 135 patients was performed. The specific joints studied were ankle, and the subtalar, triple, first tarsometatarsal, first metatarsophalangeal, and hallux interphalangeal joints. Our results showed that the average interval for complete fusion was significantly less for the joints in the forefoot, with the subtalar joint, ankle, and triple arthrodesis requiring a longer period to achieve complete fusion. The nonunion rate was also greater when the fusion involved the joints of the rearfoot. Our results have refuted the idea that 6 weeks is the minimum period required to achieve fusion in the foot and ankle. The results of our study support the need for additional education of the patients and surgeons that the interval required for recovery after foot and ankle fusion depends on the location and surface area that has been fused., (Copyright © 2014 American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

The primary goal of triple arthrodesis for stage III and IV adult acquired flatfoot is to obtain a well-aligned plantigrade foot that will support the ankle in optimal alignment. Ancillary procedures including posterior muscle group lengthening, medial displacement calcaneal osteotomy, medial column stabilization, peroneus brevis tenotomy, or transfer and harvest of regional bone graft are often necessary to achieve adequate realignment. Image intensification is helpful in confirming optimal realignment before fixation. Results of triple arthrodesis are enhanced with adequate preparation of joint surfaces, bone graft/orthobiologics, 2-point fixation of all 3 tritarsal joints, and a vertical heel position., (Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Midfoot osteotomy has been previously confirmed to be a good method to correct pes cavus. How to fix the osteotomy and which point to choose for the procedure has been a focus for most surgeons. The aim of this study was to analyse the outcomes of a series of patients who had been treated for pes cavus deformity using midfoot osteotomy combined with adjacent joint sparing internal fixation., Materials and Methods: Between 2008 and 2012, 17 patients with a mean age of 16.8 years (12-36 years) were tracked after treatment by midfoot osteotomy combined with adjacent joint sparing internal fixation with three cannulated screws between the Lisfranc line and Cyma line. Clinical outcomes were assessed by measuring improvements of appearance and function, American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scores, and radiographic changes., Results: The mean follow-up time was 25.3 months (range, 10-50). The mean healing time from the osteotomy was 7.8 weeks (range, 6-12). The appearance and weight-bearing function were significantly improved in all patients. At a final follow-up, the mean AOFAS score was 75.8/100 points (range, 63-90). The mean Meary's angle, calcaneal pitch angle, tibiotalar angle, and Hibb's angle values improved from 26.3 to 5.5, 44.5 to 28.3, 133.1 to 100.8 and 66.9 to 41.1, respectively. Adjacent joints presented no obviously arthritic degeneration at the follow-up. Subjectively, 94.1% of patients were very satisfied or satisfied with minor reservations. Objective outcomes were excellent or good in 88.2% of feet., Conclusion: For the treatment of rigid pes cavus deformity, extra-articular midfoot osteotomy combined with adjacent joint sparing internal fixation is effective and safe. This surgical technique is especially effective with low rates of arthritic degeneration and joint stiffness in the adjacent joints and little reduction of ankle and foot flexibility.

Objective of the study is to compare the diagnostic accuracy for detecting monosodium urate crystal deposits between dual-energy CT (DECT) and ultrasound (US). Sixty consecutive patients (49 men, mean age 62 years) with clinically suspected gout were included in this case-control study. DECT and US of feet, knees, hands and elbows were performed in all patients. Polarisation microscopy of synovial fluid or a score incorporating serum uric acid level, first MTP joint involvement, gender, previous patient-reported arthritis attack, cardiovascular diseases, joint redness and onset within 1 day was used as standard of reference. Standard of reference classified 39 patients as gout positive. Sixteen patients had gout and a concomitant rheumatic disease. Sensitivities for diagnosis of gout disease were 84.6 % (33/39) for DECT and 100 % (39/39) for US. Specificities were 85.7 % (18/21) for DECT and 76.2 % (16/21) for US. Positive and negative predictive values were 91.7 % (33/36) and 75.0 % (18/24) for DECT, 88.6 % (39/44) and 100 % (16/16) for US, respectively. Urate crystals were detected most frequently in MTP1 joints (DECT 20/78, US 58/78), any other toe joints (DECT 25/78, US 62/78) and knees (DECT 41/78, US 31/78). The volumetry of DECT computed a mean urate crystal deposit load of 2.1 cm(3) (SD 9.6 cm(3)). A mean effective dose of ≤0.5 mSv was estimated. DECT is more specific for the diagnosis of gout than US. However, it fails to detect small urate crystal deposits. It might be particularly useful for patients with ambivalent findings, concomitant rheumatic diseases and with non-conclusive joint aspiration.

Müller-Weiss disease (MWD) is a complex idiopathic foot condition of the adult tarsal navicular characterised by progressive navicular fragmentation and talo-navicular joint destruction leading to mid and hind foot pain and deformit. This article reviews, the current literature regarding this condition and discusses the surgical treatment options., (Copyright © 2013 European Foot and Ankle Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Aim: To determine whether tumour necrosis factor α (TNFα) blockers are more effective than methotrexate in inhibiting the progression of radiographic joint damage in patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA)., Methods: A cohort analysis of patients followed prospectively in a large PsA clinic was conducted. Patients who received a TNFα blocker were compared to those treated with methotrexate. Patients who had records of at least 12 months of treatment with either medication for active peripheral PsA and had radiographic bone erosions were analysed. Radiographs of the hands and feet were performed at baseline, 1-2 years (time 1) and 3-4 years (time 2). Radiographic joint damage was scored according to the modified Steinbrocker score. The outcome of interest was the occurrence of radiographic progression. Multivariate logistic regression analysis using generalised estimating equations for repeated measures was used to compare progression in radiographic joint damage between the two treatment groups., Results: 65 patients treated with TNFα blockers and 70 patients treated with methotrexate were analysed. The proportion of patients who demonstrated progression of radiographic damage score at time 1 and time 2 was higher in the methotrexate group compared to the TNFα blockers group (at time 1: 80% vs 58.9% p=0.005; at time 2: 88% vs 61% p=0.005). In the multivariate regression analysis methotrexate treatment was associated with an increase in radiographic damage compared to TNFα blockers (p=0.001)., Conclusions: In a clinic setting, patients with erosive PsA receiving TNFα blockers had a better radiographic outcome compared to those treated with methotrexate.

Objective: Evaluate ustekinumab, an anti-interleukin (IL)-12 and IL-23 antibody, effects on radiographic progression in psoriatic arthritis (PsA)., Methods: We conducted preplanned integrated analyses of combined radiographic data from PSUMMIT-1 and PSUMMIT-2 phase 3, randomised, controlled trials. Patients had active PsA despite prior conventional and/or biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (≥5/66 swollen, ≥5/68 tender joints, C-reactive protein ≥3.0 mg/L, documented plaque psoriasis). Patients (PSUMMIT-1, n=615; PSUMMIT-2, n=312) were randomised to ustekinumab 45 mg, 90 mg, or placebo, at weeks (wk) 0, 4 and every (q) 12 wks. At wk 16, patients with <5% improvement in tender/swollen joint counts entered blinded early escape. All other placebo patients received ustekinumab 45 mg at wk 24 and wk 28, then q 12 wks. Radiographs of hands/feet at wks 0/24/52 were assessed using PsA-modified van der Heijde-Sharp (vdH-S) scores; combined PSUMMIT-1 and PSUMMIT-2 changes in total vdH-S scores from wk 0 to wk 24 comprised the prespecified primary radiographic analysis. Treatment effects were assessed using analysis of variance on van der Waerden normal scores (factors=treatment, baseline methotrexate usage, and study)., Results: Integrated data analysis results indicated that ustekinumab-treated patients (regardless of dose) demonstrated significantly less radiographic progression at wk 24 than did placebo recipients (wk 0-24 total vdH-S score mean changes: 0.4-combined/individual ustekinumab dose groups, 1.0-placebo; all p<0.02). From wk 24 to wk 52, inhibition of radiographic progression was maintained for ustekinumab-treated patients, and progression was substantially reduced among initial placebo recipients who started ustekinumab at wk 16 or wk 24 (wk 24 - wk 52, total vdH-S score mean change: 0.08)., Conclusions: Ustekinumab 45 and 90 mg treatments significantly inhibited radiographic progression of joint damage in patients with active PsA.

Objective: Evaluate the safety and efficacy of longterm abatacept (ABA) treatment over 5 years in methotrexate (MTX)-refractory patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA)., Methods: Patients from the 1-year, double-blind Abatacept in Inadequate Responders to Methotrexate (AIM) study (NCT00048568) received open-label ABA (∼10 mg/kg) in the longterm extension (LTE). Safety was assessed for patients who received ≥ 1 ABA dose, and efficacy for patients randomized to ABA and treated in the LTE. Radiographs were evaluated for changes in Genant-modified Sharp scores., Results: Out of 652 patients, 539 entered the LTE (ABA, n = 378; placebo, n = 161). At Year 5, 72.4% were ongoing; discontinuation rates declined over time. Incidence rates of serious adverse events, serious infections, malignancies, and autoimmune events were 13.87, 2.84, 1.45, and 0.99 events/100 patient-years exposure, respectively. American College of Rheumatology 20 response was 82.3% (n = 373) and 83.6% (n = 268) at years 1 and 5, respectively. Disease Activity Score 28 C-reactive protein (DAS28-CRP) < 2.6 and ≤ 3.2 were achieved by 25.4% and 44.1% of patients at Year 1 (n = 370), and 33.7% and 54.7% at Year 5 (n = 267), respectively. Mean changes in DAS28-CRP and Health Assessment Questionnaire-Disability Index at Year 1 [-2.83 (n = 365) and -0.68 (n = 369)] were maintained at Year 5 [-3.14 (n = 264) and -0.77 (n = 271)] for patients continuing treatment. Of them, 59.5% (n = 291) and 45.1% (n = 235) remained free from radiographic progression at years 1 and 5, respectively., Conclusion: In MTX-refractory patients with RA, longterm ABA treatment was well tolerated and provided consistent safety and sustained efficacy, with high patient retention. Radiographic progression continued to be inhibited with ongoing treatment.

Objectives: The severity of joint destruction is highly variable between rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. The majority of its heritability is still unexplained. Several autoimmune diseases share genetic risk variants that may also influence disease progression. We aimed to identify genetic risk factors for the severity of joint damage in RA by studying genetic susceptibility loci of several autoimmune diseases., Methods: In phase 1, 3143 sets of x-rays of 646 Dutch RA patients taken over 7 years (Sharp van der Heijde (SHS) scored) were studied. Genotyping was done by Immunochip. Associations of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with minor allele frequency (MAF) >0.01 and joint destruction were analysed. In phase 2, 686 North American RA patients with 926 SHS-scored x-rays over 15 years of follow-up were evaluated. In both phases multiple testing corrections were done for the number of uncorrelated SNPs; the thresholds for significance were p<1.1×10(-6) and p<0.0036. Matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) levels were measured with ELISA in baseline serum samples., Results: In phase 1, 109 SNPs associated significantly with joint destruction (p<1.1×10(-6)). Of these, 76 were located in the HLA region; the 33 non-HLA variants were studied in phase 2. Here two variants were associated with the severity of joint destruction: rs451066 on chromosome 14 (p=0.002, MAF=0.20) and rs11908352 on chromosome 20 (p=0.002, MAF=0.21). Rs11908352 is located near the gene encoding MMP-9. Serum levels of MMP-9 were significantly associated with the rs11908352 genotypes (p=0.007)., Conclusions: These data indicate that two loci that confer risk to other autoimmune diseases also affect the severity of joint destruction in RA. Rs11908352 may influence joint destruction via MMP-9 production.

Objective: To compare in daily clinical practice the reliability of matrices that forecast rapid radiologic progression (RRP) at year one, at year two, and over 2 years in patients with early rheumatoid arthritis (RA)., Methods: Overall, 74 early RA patients with X-rays of hands and feet at baseline, year one, and year two were included. Initial DMARD combination therapy with steroids (ICTS) or DMARD monotherapy (IMT) was initiated according to patients' RA severity, based on rheumatologist opinion. The images were scored via the modified Sharp/van der Heijde (SvH) method. A total Sharp score progression of equal or higher than five per year was considered RRP. Six matrices were tested: ASPIRE CRP/ESR matrices, the BEST matrix, two SWEFOT matrices, and the ESPOIR matrix. Patients were placed in each of them yielding a RRP probability. The performance was tested by Area Under the Curve analysis reflecting the predictive value., Results: Four patients developed RRP in year one, five in year two, and four over 2 years. With regard to face validity, the predicted probability did not correspond to the risk in reality: the one ICTS patient who developed RRP over 2 years was always found in the lowest RRP categories of all matrices. The ASPIRE CRP matrix yielded at least a moderate predicting value for the three time points. The other matrices showed moderate to no predicting value., Conclusion: The performance of all matrices was disappointing and it is impossible to fully rely on the existing matrices in daily clinical practice., (© 2013 Published by Elsevier Inc.)

Celiac disease (CD) is a gluten-sensitive enthesopathy occurring in genetically predisposed individuals that is caused by a permanent intolerance to gluten. The major environmental factor associated with the risk of developing celiac-related complications is persistent exposure to dietary gluten. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of lower limb enthesopathy in CD patients at first diagnosis compared with CD patients on a gluten-free diet (GFD). Fifty-five untreated CD patients (group A) and 55 CD patients on a GFD from at least 1 year (group B), matched for age and sex, attending gastroenterology outpatient clinic of the University Federico II of Naples, were enrolled in this study. All patients underwent clinical and ultrasonography examination. Among group A, 27 (49.8 %) patients presented at least one entheseal alteration as compared with 15 patients (27.2 %) of group B (prevalence rate ratio 1.83, I.C. 95 % = 0.48-7.01; p < 0.001). The Glasgow ultrasound enthesitis scoring system (GUESS) was significantly higher in patients of group A than in patients of group B. In conclusion, our study shows that enthesopathy is more frequent in untreated CD subjects with positive anti-tissue transglutaminase antibodies title, as compared to those on GFD and absence of serum anti-tissue transglutaminase antibodies title.

Objective: Foot and ankle deformities greatly affect the quality of life of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. The aim of this study was to elucidate the pattern of destruction of the RA foot and its impact on patients., Methods: We cross-sectionally investigated RA patients (274 patients and 542 feet) using radiographs. The grade of joint destruction was assigned using Larsen's grading system for 12 joints in the foot and ankle. Cluster analysis was performed using the K-means method to classify the pattern of joint destruction. Of the 274 patients evaluated radiographically, 212 were assessed for functional disability using questionnaires., Results: Cluster analysis revealed that 542 feet were divided into 5 clusters, named according to the characteristic distribution of joint destruction: cluster I (normal type), cluster II (forefoot type), cluster III (midfoot type), cluster IV (mid-hindfoot type), and cluster V (combined type). Radiographic measurements revealed the characteristic deformities of each cluster: splay foot for cluster II, flat foot for cluster III, hindfoot malalignment for cluster IV, and mixtures of these characteristics for cluster V. A distribution map of each cluster based on disease duration revealed that cluster III peaked in cases of 5-10-year disease duration and subsequently decreased, followed by a gradual increase of cluster IV and cluster V. Cluster IV and cluster V showed significant changes in functional disability compared to cluster III., Conclusion: This report is the first to reveal the pattern of RA foot deformities and their impact on patients using statistical measures in a large series., (Copyright © 2014 by the American College of Rheumatology.)

Background: Patients with hip and knee osteoarthritis (OA) have high bone mineral density (BMD) and high BMI. If the same accounts for patients with foot or ankle OA is unknown., Methods: We measured BMD and femoral neck (FN) width by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry in 42 women and 19 men with idiopathic OA in the foot or ankle, and in 99 women and 82 men as controls., Results: Women with OA had significant higher BMI than controls. Women with OA had higher BMI-adjusted BMD (p<0.01) and smaller BMI-adjusted FN width (p<0.01) than controls. Men with OA had higher BMI adjusted-BMD (p<0.05) and smaller BMI-adjusted FN width (p<0.01) than controls., Conclusion: Patients with OA in the foot or ankle have higher BMD and smaller bone size than being expected by their BMI. This phenotype may provide unfavourable forces across the joint and is hypothetically important for development of OA., (Copyright © 2013 European Foot and Ankle Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Purpose: The optimal treatment of calcaneal fractures is controversial. A specific subgroup of healthy patients has good outcomes with open reduction and internal fixation using an extensile lateral approach. However, there are many patients who do not fit into this category. Consequently, they are either denied surgical intervention or put at significant risk of developing complications as a result of open surgical intervention. Minimally invasive reduction and fixation (MIRF) of calcaneal fractures can restore the height, width, length and shape of the hindfoot in addition to restoring the orientation of the posterior facet of the calcaneus (Böhler's angle)., Methods: We present a series of 31 patients treated with minimally invasive reduction and fixation technique using threaded K wires and Steinmann pins as an alternative treatment method in patients who are not suitable for open reduction and internal fixation., Results: The mean time to surgery from injury was six days (range one to ten days). The mean duration of surgery was 35 minutes (range 11-52 minutes). The mean followup was 14.9 months (range of seven to 30 months). The mean change in Böhler's angle and length of the calcaneus from intra-operative fixation to final followup were 18.7° and 4.7 mm, respectively. The complication rate was low and there was one case of a superficial wound infection and no cases of deep infection or peroneal impingement in this series., Conclusion: The MIRF technique with the use of threaded K wires has not been previously described in the literature. In our experience, the operative time is short and can be safely performed even in the presence of extensive soft tissue swelling in the immediate period following injury. The infection risk is low and calcaneal morphology was improved and maintained in terms of Böhler's angle. This technique is suitable to be considered in patients who have significant medical co-morbidities (smokers, diabetics, peripheral vascular disease) and in those patients who are not suitable for an extensile lateral approach and internal fixation.

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the current use of musculoskeletal US (MSUS) and the most relevant areas of interest for this imaging modality in paediatric rheumatology., Methods: A questionnaire was developed by the paediatric subgroup of the OMERACT US task force and e-mailed to the members of the main international paediatric rheumatology networks and societies. Responses were entered in an electronic database. Results were analysed quantitatively or summarized qualitatively in the case of open questions., Results: The overall response rate was 36% (262/719). The use of MSUS varied among members of the various networks/societies. MSUS was considered of high relevance for improvement of diagnostic skills, for the guidance of joint injections and for the assessment of specific joints, namely the hip, ankle, midfoot and wrist. It was considered useful for early detection of synovitis and in determining disease activity and disease remission., Conclusion: Although at present MSUS is not widely used by paediatric rheumatologists, there is considerable interest in this imaging technology among members of the international networks. The results of this survey suggest that the next objective in the research agenda should be the standardization of the assessment of joints in healthy children. This will then help differentiate pathological (i.e. synovitic) joints from normal joints. The initial target joints should be the hip, ankle, midfoot and wrist. MSUS training focused on the assessment of paediatric patients might be very important in implementing the use of this technique in clinical practice and research.

Objectives: To assess the prevalence and severity of inflammatory abnormalities of the hand, wrist and foot joints in SLE patients by US and to correlate them with clinical, laboratory and disease activity score parameters., Methods: Sixty-two consecutive SLE patients were enrolled in the present study and underwent clinical evaluation, laboratory tests and bilateral high-resolution US of the hand, wrist and foot joints. Joint effusion (JE), synovial hypertrophy (SH) and local pathological vascularization [power Doppler (PD)] were evaluated according to both a dichotomous score and a semi-quantitative (0-3) grading system. In addition, a global US score was calculated by summing the values given to each elementary lesion for every single joint and every joint group. US findings were correlated with physical examination, serological parameters (CRP, ANA, anti-dsDNA, ENA, aPL, C3 and C4 serum levels) and disease activity indexes (SLEDAI-2K, ECLAM)., Results: US detected inflammatory joint abnormalities in 54/62 patients (87.1%); 72.6% presented involvement of the MTP joints, 46.7% the MCP joints, 19.3% the PIP joints and 53% the wrists. A total of 1984 joints were examined highlighting JE in 19.1% of cases, SH in 6.9% and positive PD in 1.1%. The global US inflammatory score had a mean value of 10.9 (s.d. 15.2). No correlations were found between US findings and SLE disease activity parameters., Conclusion: US demonstrated a high prevalence of inflammatory joint abnormalities in SLE that were also present in asymptomatic patients. Interestingly, the foot joints were the most frequently involved. US is a valuable tool for detecting subclinical synovitis in SLE.

Objective: To assess the value of gray-scale (GS) and power Doppler (PD) ultrasound (US) in detecting inflammatory/destructive changes and for prediction of necessity of re-therapy with rituximab (RTX) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) over 1 year of followup., Methods: GSUS and PDUS were performed to assess synovitis, tenosynovitis, and erosions on the clinically dominant hand and forefoot of 20 patients with RA before and after therapy with RTX. US parameters were compared with clinical (Disease Activity Score in 28 joints, tender/swollen joint counts, and patients' visual analog scale of disease activity) and laboratory parameters (C-reactive protein level and erythrocyte sedimentation rate). Results were compared for patients with and without re-therapy with RTX., Results: Significant decreases in clinical and laboratory parameters were observed after 6 and 12 months. US synovitis scores significantly decreased after 6 and 12 months (P < 0.05 for each). Regarding patients who received re-therapy between 6 and 9 months after the start of therapy (n = 9), a fair therapy response was still detectable before re-therapy. In these patients, PD-positive synovitis was the only parameter that increased up to the 6-month examination. All patients negative for rheumatoid factor and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (n = 4) were in the group of patients receiving a second course of treatment. Seropositive patients showed a better response to treatment with less need for re-therapy., Conclusion: Response to therapy was measurable by clinical and laboratory parameters as well as by US. Since PDUS was able to detect the onset of disease activity before worsening of clinical symptoms occurred, PDUS is most helpful in evaluating disease activity and making earlier therapy decisions., (Copyright © 2014 by the American College of Rheumatology.)

Objective: We set out to assess the feasibility, reliability, and sensitivity to change of 4 radiographic scoring methods in psoriatic arthritis (PsA)., Methods: Hand and feet radiographs from 50 patients with PsA were scored at 2 time points by 2 assessors with each of the following methods: modified Steinbrocker score, modified Sharp score (MSS), modified Sharp/van der Heijde score (SHS), and the Ratingen score for PsA. The radiographs of 10 patients were scored by both assessors to assess reliability using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). Sensitivity to change was estimated using a standardized response mean (SRM) and smallest detectable change (SDC)., Results: The patients' mean ± SD age at baseline was 50 ± 12.1 years, the mean ± SD disease duration was 10 ± 8.4 years, and the mean ± SD followup period was 25 ± 9.6 months. Intrarater reliability was excellent for all methods (ICC >0.97). Interrater reliability was highest for the SHS (ICC 0.95-0.99). The percentage SDC for the Steinbrocker method, the Ratingen method, the MSS, and the SHS was 2.9%, 2.1%, 1.4%, and 1.2%, respectively, and the SRMs were 0.46, 0.44, 0.77, and 0.79, respectively. The mean time to score each of the Steinbrocker method, the Ratingen method, the MSS, and the SHS was 6.2, 10.5, 14.6, and 14.4 minutes, respectively., Conclusion: The SHS method was the most reliable and sensitive to change but took longer to perform. The Steinbrocker method is the most feasible but lacks the sensitivity of the SHS. The SDC of the Ratingen method is close to that of the SHS and MSS, but is quicker to perform., (Copyright © 2014 by the American College of Rheumatology.)

Objective: Tophi are strongly associated with structural damage in gout, and urate-lowering therapy reduces tophus size. Pegloticase leads to dramatic reductions in serum urate and subcutaneous tophi in treatment responders. The aim of this analysis was to examine whether profound urate lowering can alter radiographic findings in gout., Methods: Serial plain radiographs of the hands and feet were obtained from 8 patients with tophaceous gout treated with pegloticase. Radiographs were scored for erosion and joint space narrowing (JSN) according to the gout-modified Sharp/van der Heijde method. Scorers were blinded to each other's scores and to the clinical characteristics of the patients (including the clinical response to pegloticase). A detailed qualitative site-by-site analysis was undertaken to define additional changes observed from baseline., Results: All patients experienced a profound urate-lowering response (serum urate level <1 mg/dl) during pegloticase treatment. For the entire group, the median total radiographic scores reduced from 69.25 (range 1.5-138) at baseline to 57.25 (range 1.5-110) at 12 months (P = 0.02). Median erosion scores reduced over 1 year (P = 0.008), but JSN scores did not change (P = 0.50). Further reductions were observed in total scores and erosion scores in 5 patients with 24-month followup films (one-way analysis of variance P = 0.009 for total score, 0.02 for erosion, and 0.95 for JSN). Qualitative site-by-site analysis identified regression of soft tissue masses, increased sclerosis, and filling in of erosions in the followup films., Conclusion: This exploratory study suggests that profound urate lowering can lead to improvement in structural damage, particularly bone erosion, in patients with tophaceous gout., (Copyright © 2014 by the American College of Rheumatology.)

Evaluation of: Kavanaugh A, Ritchlin C, Rahman P et al.; on behalf of the PSUMMIT-1 and -2 Study Groups. Ustekinumab, an anti-IL-12/23 p40 monoclonal antibody, inhibits radiographic progression in patients with active psoriatic arthritis: results of an integrated analysis of radiographic data from the Phase 3, multicentre, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled PSUMMIT-1 and PSUMMIT-2 trials. Ann. Rheum. Dis. 73(6), 1000-1006 (2014). The IL-23/IL-17 axis plays a major role in the immunopathogenesis of psoriatic arthritis (PsA), inducing the production of proinflammatory cytokines (e.g., IL-1, TNF-α, IL-6 and IL8), osteoclastogenesis and cartilage degradation. This pathway represents a novel target in the treatment of PsA. Ustekinumab is a human monoclonal antibody that prevents the human IL-12/IL-23 p40 subunit from binding to the IL12Rβ1 receptor chain. The current paper sustains that clinical efficacy of ustekinumab is associated with inhibition of radiological progression in active PsA.

Inveterated fractures or dislocations of the foot which are defined as being more than 6-12 weeks old can be secondarily reconstructed anatomically in only very rare cases. All other cases need reorientation of all axes of the foot requiring single or combined joint fusion. In cases of significant posttraumatic bone necrosis the dead bone has to be radically resected and substituted by an autogenous bone graft from the iliac crest. Old cases of dislocation, for example after subtalar dislocation without anatomical reduction, need reorientation of the foot axes by performing arthrodesis. Subluxation of the medial Lisfranc joint after an unrecognized rupture of Lisfranc ligament can be controlled later by anatomical repair of this ligament by using half of the extensor digitorum longus tendon and thus avoiding arthrodesis.

Objectives: Our objectives in this study were to determine the inhibitory effects of abatacept on joint damage and its clinical efficacy and safety in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA)., Methods: Fifty Japanese patients with RA were treated with abatacept for 24 weeks in routine clinical practice., Results: At week 24, 20 % of patients achieved clinical remission [Simplified Disease Activity Index (SDAI) ≤3.3], whereas 50 % were in remission or had a low disease activity. Structural remission [progression of modified total Sharp score (ΔmTSS) ≤0.5] was achieved in 76 % of patients. The ΔmTSS decreased significantly from 7.1 ± 7.3 at baseline to 1.8 ± 5.7 at week 24. C-reactive protein (CRP) was the only independent prognostic factor for joint damage progression at week 24, whereas SDAI and matrix metalloproteinase-3 levels were not. A very high proportion of patients with CRP levels <1.5 mg/dl (88 %) achieved structural remission. In terms of safety, the retention rate for all patients was favorable (80 %), and stomatitis was the only adverse event observed. No patient withdrew from the study because of infections., Conclusions: Abatacept has favorable clinical and structural effects, inhibits radiographic progression, and has a good safety profile in routine clinical practice.