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Category: Hindfoot; Sports Introduction/Purpose: Insertional Achilles tendinopathy (IAT) refers to calcified enlargement of the Achilles insertion. Recently, the Zadek osteotomy has been proven to be an effective and minimally invasive procedure for IAT with a dorsal-based closing wedge osteotomy on the posterior tuberosity of the calcaneus. However, determining the wedge size and location to determine the exact enlargement of the tuberosity remains clinically challenging. The goal of this study was to examine the morphology of the calcaneus in both normal control and IAT groups, and to propose a novel algorithm to determine the angular measurement to guide treatment with a Zadek osteotomy. Methods: Lateral weightbearing images of 40 control feet were used to determine the size of the calcaneus and contour of the tuberosity. The shape of the calcaneus was mapped onto part of a circle the Standard Circle (SC) whose center and radius were statistically fitted and scaled in relation to the height and width of the calcaneus. The diseased tuberosity of 40 patients with IAT was outlined and compared to their respective SC's. An angle was calculated by which the diseased calcaneus curve was rotated around the weightbearing point to fit the SC. We defined this angular measurement as the Pathologic Achilles Insertion Angle (PAIA). The size of the PAIA should be the exact size of the Zadek osteotomy if the apex of the osteotomy is chosen at the weightbearing point of the calcaneus. The effect of moving the apex of the osteotomy anteriorly on the calcaneal pitch angle was calculated. Results: From the morphology of the 40 normal calcanei, the equation of the Standard Curve, R^2=(x+a)^2+(y+b)^2 was created to calculate the SC. The offsets of the center of SC and the radius of SC (a, b, and R) were scaled in relation to the width and height of the calcaneus. From the morphology of the 40 enlarged tuberosities in the IAT group, an algorithm was created to automate the calculation of PAIA. This represented the extent of the enlarged Achilles insertion, which also determined the size and location of the wedge to normalize the contour of the enlarged posterior tuberosity. Using the weightbearing point of the calcaneus as the apex of the osteotomy did not change the pitch angle of the calcaneus, but moving the apex of the osteotomy anteriorly reduced the calcaneal pitch angle determined by both the original PAIA and the calcaneal pitch angle of each specific foot. Conclusion: Based on mechanism of mapping and curve fitting, the newly developed PAIA, will not only guide evaluation of the enlarged tuberosity in IAT, but also calculate the size of the Zadek osteotomy taking the patient's calcaneus size, IAT enlargement size, and pitch angle in consideration.

Category: Other; Ankle; Hindfoot; Midfoot/Forefoot Introduction/Purpose: As digital healthcare systems advance, patient reported outcomes (PRO) platforms offer an effective strategy for clinicians to evaluate patient relevant treatment outcomes. Initiated by AOFAS in 2018, the Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Outcomes Research (OFAR) Network was a multi-center surgical outcomes registry platform established to collect, aggregate, and report PRO data. OFAR included surgical information, patient demographics, and PRO instruments developed by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS). Due to high costs and competing technologies, OFAR data collection ended in 2020. Although OFAR did not achieve widespread and sustained use, a large number of patients were enrolled over the 2-year period. We hypothesized that each aggregated PRO metric improved at all post-operative time points compared to preoperative values. Methods: From 2018-2020, four sites and 10 orthopedic surgeons were approved and able to contribute patient data to the OFAR database. Enrolled patients completed a pre-operative survey and then post-operative surveys at 3-months, 6-months, and 12-months. Five PROMIS metrics were collected at each survey point, including Physical Function CAT (PF), Pain Intensity Short Form (PI), Pain Interference CAT, Global Health Short Form and Depression CAT. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the demographics and clinical characteristics of all individuals. Linear mixed models were used to test for differences in patient reported outcomes (PROs) across the study visits. The unstructured covariance structure was used to account for the repeated measures. After the OFAR closed to enrollment, all investigators of the OFAR consortium, including those who were not able to participate as a site, were surveyed to investigate the barriers they faced when launching OFAR at their site. Results: The final OFAR database includes 1,675 procedures performed at four institutions, with 1,126 having complete data for analysis. Ankle impingement (12%), ankle fracture/syndesmosis (11%), ankle arthritis (10%), and hallux valgus (9%) were the most common conditions among 28 unique conditions. The cumulative incidence of post-operative complications was 6.2% and the re- operation rate was 1.5%. Relative to the pre-operative visit, there was significant improvement in all metrics across post-operative time points (Table 1). The majority of OFAR consortium member sites (15 of 19) were unable to enroll patients in OFAR. The most common barriers noted included resistance from institutional EMR/IT or compliance teams, and institutional requirements to collect PROs through another platform. The majority of OFAR members (55%) indicated they would participate in a future low-cost, low-effort multi-center outcomes database. Conclusion: The OFAR database successfully collected patient outcomes data from multiple institutions. The resulting database also provided a comprehensive resource to answer targeted clinical questions about outcome predictors for common interventions. Barriers to participation in a multi-center registry more frequently emanated from the technologic or compliance constraints of hospital systems rather than individual providers. Increasing demand for PROs in practice, combined with the evolving technical landscape of greater automation and EHR interoperability will lead to more sustainable, affordable, and collaborative outcomes platforms. Institutional EMR and compliance barriers remain an important factor in advancing these important initiatives.

Category: Hindfoot; Ankle; Other Introduction/Purpose: Recently joint congruence has been given a lot of focus in studies evaluating foot and ankle deformities. XR and WBCT scans are the commonly used techniques, however, neither can accurately reflect articular surfaces particularly in joints where only partial bone surfaces are covered by articular cartilage. This study introduced a novel technique using 3D surface mapping and CT bone segmentation to assess articular morphology and congruence of the calcaneocuboid (CC) joint. Methods: A CT scan of a fresh frozen cadaveric foot without trauma history nor deformity was taken and then the calcaneus and cuboid bones were dissected free with all soft tissue removed. Segmentation and reconstruction of the calcaneus and cuboid from the CT scan was performed using Materialise Mimics. Surface mapping and digital reconstructions of the calcaneus and cuboid bones as well as the calcaneocuboid articular surfaces were then obtained using an Artec Space Spider 3D scanner. Both the CT and surface mapping reconstructions were imported into Geomagic Studio 10 where the reconstructed calcaneus via CT was merged with the reconstructed calcaneus via surface mapping. The same procedures were performed with the reconstructions of the cuboid. Then cartilage surfaces from the calcaneocuboid joint of the surface mapping reconstruction were outlined on and compared to the bone surfaces underneath. Results: The articular surfaces of the calcaneocuboid joint were shaped according to the bone contour noting however that on both sides, the articular surface did not fully match the bone surface. On the calcaneal side, the dimension of the bone surface was 357.72 mm 2 , while the articular surface was 300.92 mm 2 (percentage of bone covered by cartilage: 84.12%). On the Cuboid side, the dimension of the bone surface was 372.41 mm 2 while the articular surface was 302.60 mm 2 (percentage of bone covered by cartilage: 81.25%). When restoring the articulation of the reconstructed calcaneus and cuboid, there was incongruence of the two bone surfaces with the dorsolateral corner of the calcaneus and the plantarmedial corner of the cuboid uncovered by its contralateral bone. The same applied to the articular surfaces but at a smaller uncovering level (Figure 1). Conclusion: Even with 3D CT segmentation and reconstruction of articulating bones, one has no knowledge of the precise articular surface of a joint. 3D surface scanning is a reliable method to study morphology of the cartilage surface of a joint. 3D CT reconstruction combined with 3D surface mapping is a useful tool for studying both the bony surface and the cartilage surface of a joint. This study has implications for treatment of any joint in the foot which appears subluxated on XR or CT scans and where this may represent the normal bone morphology but not true subluxation. Articular congruence study under weightbearing condition is currently under investigation by our research group.

Category: Hindfoot; Ankle; Midfoot/Forefoot Introduction/Purpose: Tarsal coalition has been historically reported to be associated with a flatfoot deformity. There are however case reports demonstrating that it can be found in cavovarus and clubfoot deformities. The goal of this study was to retrospectively review all weightbearing CT (WBCT) scans that were taken in one medical center, to investigate the clinically diagnosed as well as missed cases of tarsal coalition, and to determine the hindfoot alignment and arch height features of each case. Methods: 800 WBCT scans were reviewed separately by two senior fellowship trained foot and ankle surgeons. The structure of the hindfoot and midfoot was carefully examined in all three views to screen for different types of tarsal coalition. For cases that were diagnosed with tarsal coalition on WBCT, the medical charts were then reviewed to determine the original clinical diagnoses. Hindfoot alignment and arch height features of the midfoot were subsequently evaluated on WBCT scans. Results: There were 41 feet that were diagnosed with tarsal coalition on WBCT (Figure 1). The clinical diagnosis of coalition was only made in 15 feet and 26 symptomatic feet were clinically missed. Among the 26 symptomatic feet diagnosed on WBCT but clinically missed, 16 had a clinical diagnosis of congenital or acquired flatfoot, 3 with subtalar arthritis, 1 with talonavicular arthritis, 1 with peroneal tendinopathy and a cavovarus foot deformity, 2 with cavovarus deformity and midfoot arthritis, 2 with posttraumatic ankle arthritis, and 1 with subtalar impingement. A valgus hindfoot was found in 19 feet, a neutral hindfoot in 18, and a varus hindfoot in 4 feet. In the midfoot, 38 feet had a positive (>=1) distal medial cuneiform/fifth metatarsal arch height index, and 3 feet had a negative index (=1). Conclusion: One should be aware that patients with tarsal coalition do not always present with a flatfoot and hindfoot valgus, since many can have a variety of hindfoot and midfoot alignment features. In cases presenting with history of trauma, degenerative arthritis, as well as a cavovarus or clubfoot deformity, tarsal coalition can easily be clinically overlooked. References: - Lemley F, Berlet G, Hill K, Philbin T, Isaac B, Lee T. Current concepts review: Tarsal coalition. Foot Ankle Int. 2006 Dec;27(12):1163-9. - Van Rysselberghe NL, Souder CD, Mubarak SJ. Unsuspected tarsal coalitions in equinus and varus foot deformities. J Pediatr Orthop B. 2020 Jul;29(4):370-374.

Category: Hindfoot; Sports Introduction/Purpose: Insertional Achilles tendinopathy (IAT) associated with calcification and degeneration of the insertion is a common disorder. (Figure 1) Presently, there is little understanding of the etiology, pathogenesis, and biomechanics of this disease entity, although excessive tension at the Achilles insertion associated with calcaneus abnormalities have been considered a contributing factor. Multiple imaging modalities have been used to investigate a possible correlation between calcaneus morphology and IAT. However, no prognostic criteria have yet been found. The goal of this study was to evaluate the size of the calcified enlargement of the Achilles insertion using a newly developed angular measurement, pathologic Achilles insertion angle (PAIA)1 (Figures 2-3), and compare it among groups with different hindfoot and arch height alignment features. Methods: Medical records of 85 patients with symptomatic IAT were retrospectively reviewed. Weightbearing lateral Xray images were used for morphological and radiographic analysis. The PAIA was used for the morphological evaluation. It is based on a mechanism of mapping and curve fitting and represents the extent of the enlarged Achilles insertion. (Figures2-3) A lateral view of subtalar joint alignment (LVSJA), which reflects the alignment of the hindfoot (neutral, varus or valgus), the calcaneal Pitch angle, and the ratio of the Medial Cuneiform Base Height/Cuboid Height as well as the ratio of the Medial Cuneiform Base Height/Fifth Metatarsal Height, which reflect the arch height features were assessed. The comparison of PAIA among the three groups of LVSJA, as well as the correlation between PAIA and arch height ratios were also studied. Statistical analysis was performed using SAS 9.4. Results: There were 38 males and 47 females with a mean age 54.59 (range 34-80), pitch angle 21.37 degrees (range 12.18-33.20) and PAIA 12.56 degrees (range 2.45-29.79). The LVSJA showed that 59 patients had a neutral hindfoot (69.41%), 14 had a varus (16.47%), and 12 (14.12%) had a valgus hindfoot. Among these three subgroups, there were significant differences of the calcaneus Pitch angle, and the Medial Cuneiform Base Height/Cuboid Height between the valgus and varus hindfoot groups, and the valgus and neutral hindfoot groups, but not the varus and neutral hindfoot groups. No difference was found in the Medial Cuneiform Base Height/Fifth Metatarsal Height between any two of the three subgroups. The PAIA difference between the neutral and varus hindfoot groups was significantly larger than the others. There was no significant correlation between PAIA and the calcaneal Pitch angle, as well as the two arch height indexes. (Tables 1-2) Conclusion: This study is the first to include the morphology of the calcaneus, the hindfoot and arch height features of the foot in assessing symptomatic IAT. It has found that in this cohort patients with a varus hindfoot had a much smaller calcified enlargement of the Achilles insertion than those with a neutral hindfoot. Further investigation with a larger sample size to study possible correlations among clinical symptoms, calcaneus morphology, and alignment of the feet will be helpful to guide both diagnosis and treatment of IAT in particular when the patient has combined malalignment issues in the hindfoot and midfoot.

Category: Ankle Arthritis; Arthroscopy; Basic Sciences/Biologics; Trauma Introduction/Purpose: Post-traumatic Osteoarthritis (OA) of the ankle is a debilitating condition that impacts millions of people. However, little is known about the genetic and epigenetic risk factors for progression to OA following injury. In order to better understand these factors, a thorough knowledge of the molecular signature in ankle OA relative to non-arthritic ankles is critical. The objective of this study was to perform RNA-sequencing of ankle joint synovial samples from OA and non-OA ankles to better characterize the synovial transcriptome. We compared synovial gene expression patterns in patients with end-stage OA with ankle synovium from non-OA ankles to investigate the unique biological pathways altered in ankle OA. Methods: Patients undergoing total ankle arthroplasty or ankle arthrodesis for end stage OA and patients undergoing ankle arthroscopic surgery for non-arthritic conditions (negative control), were consented for participation. Patients with immune disorders or inflammatory arthropathies were excluded. Patient demographics and medical history were collected. Synovial samples were harvested during surgery and RNA was isolated. Bulk 150 bp, paired-end RNA seq was performed using the Illumina NovaSeq6000 platform. Differential expression was determined using the edgeR (v3.16.5) package for R, after adjustment using a scaling normalization factor and P-values were corrected using the Benjamini Hochberg method. Similarities between samples were determined using Spearman Correlation and degree of similarity was visualized considering the first three Principal Components. Gene Ontology terms were identified to classify gene properties. Results: A total of 8 synovial samples from total ankle OA and 24 synovial samples from ankle non-OA were available for analysis. We found 808 genes uniquely expressed in OA synovium and another 786 different genes expressed in synovium from the control group. GO enrichment term analysis revealed an upregulation in endomembrane system organization, ubiquitin system/proteasomal degradation, and membrane transport processes including cytoskeletal, endosomal, and vacuolar in ankle OA samples compared to controls (Figure 1). These signatures differ from those previously identified in knee OA. Reactome analysis revealed pathways to those previously identified in OA of other joints, including TGF-beta signaling modulation. However, several signatures unique to ankle OA included extracellular matrix organization, integrin signaling, and AKT signaling modulation, among others. In addition, unlike in knee OA, reactome analyses of ankle OA synovium did not present with an inflammatory component associated with M1 macrophage infiltration. Conclusion: Ankle synovium in patients with end-stage ankle OA exhibit a transcriptomic signature distinct from ankle synovium collected from non-OA patients. More intriguing, we find that the ankle OA synovial transcriptome signature is distinct from previously published datasets studying synovium from patients with OA in other joints, particularly the knee. GO term and Reactome analyses identified signatures in bulk membrane transport, proteasome, matrix organization, integrin signaling, and AKT signaling, which are different from phenotypes previously reported in the knee. We conclude that development of effective disease modifying treatments for OA require attention to joint-specific biology and disease progression.

Category: Sports; Ankle; Trauma; Other Introduction/Purpose: Ligament augmentation repair (LAR) entails supplementing a ligament repair with synthetic material anchored to bone. Purported advantages include increased stability and a more aggressive rehabilitation. In recent years, the literature supporting LAR has grown rapidly, with published techniques and outcomes for many ligament and tendon repairs, including anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL), Achilles tendon, and the spring ligament complex. Despite the increased use of synthetic ligaments reported in literature, there remains a lack of clarity and consensus on the indications and postoperative rehabilitation protocols. The purpose of this study was to survey an international group of orthopedic specialists regarding their current use of LAR techniques and decision-making. Methods: We invited members of several international orthopaedic and sports medicine societies to participate in this survey between January and June 2021. Responding surgeons represented all six continents, and included 319 sports medicine specialists, 179 foot and ankle specialists, and 96 trauma specialists (some reported more than one fellowship). Survey questions fell into three general categories: 1) Surgeon demographics and training, 2) Current LAR use decision-making within respondents' subspecialty, and 3) Outcomes, complications, frequency, and benefits associated with LAR. Chi-square tests of independence were used to assess the likelihood of any dependent relationships between respondent demographics and LAR use our outcome. A p value of less than 0.05 was considered significant. Results: We collected 515 responses total with a 97% completion rate. 75% of all survey respondents report using LAR for some indication. The most frequent use was ATFL repair (69%, Figure 1). LAR is most commonly implemented for additional stability (72%), poor tissue quality (54%), and more rapid return-to-sport/work (47%). LAR users state the greatest limitation is cost (62%), while non-LAR users state their greatest deterrent to LAR is that it is unnecessary for a good outcome (46%). Foot and ankle fellowship trained surgeons are significantly more likely to use LAR (87% use LAR) compared to sports-trained surgeons (67%, p = 0.002) and surgeons without a fellowship (66% use LAR, p = 0.01). Surgeons treating professional/Olympic athletes are significantly more likely to use LAR. Conclusion: While synthetic ligaments are commonly used to supplement ligament repairs, the application, outcomes, and perceived benefit differ for each subspecialty. The reported limitations of LAR differ between LAR users and non-LAR users. For those who do not use LAR, the greatest limitation is perceived benefit, while for those that do, the greatest limitation is cost. Prospective studies of indications, outcomes and accelerated rehabilitation protocols are needed to further elucidate the value and cost-effectiveness of these implants.

Category: Trauma; Ankle; Sports Introduction/Purpose: Lower extremity fractures are relatively common among winter sports participants. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the demographics, injury mechanisms and environmental features among patients evaluated for lower leg fractures at a high-volume Colorado ski resort during five consecutive ski seasons. Methods: We conducted a retrospective descriptive analysis of patients with lower leg fractures at the Denver Health Winter Park Medical Center during the 2012/13 to 2016/17 ski seasons. We included all fractures below the knee (excluding tibial plateau and isolated fibular head fractures) sustained by skiing or snowboarding. Chart review was performed on the patient cohort, confirming diagnosis and evaluating factors associated with these fractures. Results: There were 346 lower leg, ankle, and/or foot fractures (5.4% of all clinic visits) during the study period. The average age was 33.1 years (range 4-74) with the majority being male (60.7%) and mainly as a result of skiing (84.7%). The majority of fractures were sustained among skiers and snowboarders who self-identified as beginner or intermediate skill level (64.8%), and on easy (green) or intermediate (blue) runs (64.9%). The most common fractures sustained were complete tibia-fibula fractures (30.9%) and lateral malleolus fractures (27.5%). More than half (57.0%) of complete tibia-fibula fractures were classified and boot top (mid- shaft just above the ski boot) fractures. The most common type of lateral malleolus fractures was Danis-Weber B (72.0%) with only 5.4% being Weber C fractures. Foot fractures were rare with only 12 total cases (3.5%). Conclusion: Skiers are much more likely to sustain lower leg fractures compared to snowboarders. Men were much more likely than women to sustain lower leg fractures. Most fractures occurred in mild or moderately difficult ski runs relative to advanced runs. Fractures appear to be more common with advancing age. Complete tibia-fibula fractures were the most common fractures sustained in all riders with lateral malleolus fractures being the second most common. Foot fractures are very rare in this population. Given the frequency of these injuries, additional education around prevention may be warranted.

Category: Ankle; Sports; Trauma Introduction/Purpose: Symptomatic osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLT) are challenging to treat, and large lesions (>10mm) with concomitant subchondral bony defects are particularly challenging. Standard treatments such as bone stimulation are limited and are often restricted to smaller lesions. Particulate and fragmented chondral allograft techniques face limitations with uncontained lesions. Structural allograft/autograft techniques often require removal of regions of native, uninjured bone and may encounter donor issues. Postoperatively, ensuring reliable osseous and cartilaginous healing responses can be difficult. Articular Regional Reconstruction (ARR) is a novel technique combining viable osteochondral allograft with morselized autograft bone to address large OLT lesions with bony defects, whether contained or uncontained. We describe a consecutive series of patients undergoing ARR here. Methods: Patients indicated for the ARR procedure had preoperative MRI and CT imaging identifying large (>10mm), unstable osteochondral lesions with bony defects; 11 consecutive patients that had undergone ARR were identified. OLT lesions were initially inspected arthroscopically, and then converted to open debridement. Medial malleolar osteotomies were used for access when necessary. A stable bony base and viable cartilage rim was established, removing all damaged cartilage and nonstructural material from the OLT and bony defect. Talar body structure and morphology was restored using iliac crest or tibial morselized autograft bone placed in the bony defect. Viable osteochondral allograft (Cartiform) was shaped and then secured over the autograft using suture anchors placed at the lesion periphery. Patient Reported Outcome (PRO) measures included PROMIS- physical function (PROMIS-PF), PROMIS-pain interference (PROMIS-PI), and single assessment numeric evaluation (SANE). Three patients without PRO data were excluded, leaving eight patients with preoperative and postoperative PRO data for analysis. Results: The ARR patients averaged 40 years old (range 28-60) with a mean follow up of 19 months (range 10-38). The lesion surface areas averaged 1.95 cm 2 (range 1.17-2.99 cm 2 ) with a depth of 7.25mm (range 5-9mm). Four were uncontained corner lesions. Postoperative PROMIS-PF improved from 41 to 47 (p = 0.036), and PROMIS- PI improved from 60 to 53 (p = 0.093). Average SANE scores improved from 60 to 69 (p = 0.148). No complications occurred. No revision OLT surgeries were required, though three patients returned to the OR (Two for osteotomy screw removal, one for anterior impingement of opposite corner). During these 'second looks', the implanted cartilage layer was found intact. In a recent survey, all patients indicated they would undergo the procedure again. Conclusion: Articular Regional Reconstruction (ARR) is a reproducible procedure with demonstrated potential for improvement in pain and physical function among patients with symptomatic, large osteochondral lesions of the talus with bony defects, whether 'contained' or 'uncontained'. It has particular utility as an alternative to bulk structural graft salvage procedures among patients who have failed prior procedures, as 5 of the 8 patients had undergone unsuccessful prior surgical intervention for their OLT by outside providers. Further studies on ARR of the talus are necessary to elucidate the prognosis of this procedure, establish indication boundaries, and strengthen long-term outcome data.

Category: Hindfoot; Ankle Introduction/Purpose: The Hindfoot Moment Arm (HMA) has been used to evaluate the hindfoot alignment with the Saltzman weightbearing XRay images (1), and was recently introduced into the field of weightbearing CT (WBCT) by Saltzman et al (2). The authors of this study have noticed that when using the Saltzman WBCT HMA technique, it is very difficult to determine the specific 'one' image in coronal plane scans with the widest tibial diaphyseal to draw the long axis of the tibia. The purpose of this study was to introduce a modified technique of measuring HMA in WBCT scans and compare the inter and intra-observer reliabilities between the modified and the Saltzman WBCT HMA techniques. Methods: WBCT scans of ten healthy limbs were loaded in CubeVue software. The foot was aligned in the correct orientation in the transverse plane based on the 2nd ray and the heel and the HMA was evaluated using the modified and Saltzman techniques. Using the modified technique, the sagittal plane thickness of one scan cut was increased to include the full width and length of the tibia and the axis of the distal tibia was identified by connecting two circles tangential to both cortices of the tibia. The weightbearing point of the calcaneus was located and the HMA was evaluated by measuring the perpendicular distance of the calcaneus weightbearing point to the axis of the distal tibia with varus a negative and valgus alignment a positive value. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) model was used to assess the intra- and interobserver reliability of the two HMA techniques in SAS 9.4. Results: Both techniques had excellent intra- and interobserver reliability (Saltzman WBCT HMA intra-observer ICC=0.97, Saltzman WBCT HMA inter-observer ICC=0.94, the modified WBCT HMA intra-observer ICC=0.99, the modified WBCT HMA inter-observer ICC=0.91) (Table 1). Conclusion: The modified WBCT HMA was equivalent to the Saltzman technique in both inter and intra-observer reliabilities. The authors found that the modified technique was easier and less time consuming to perform in identifying the axis of the tibia since the modified technique uses multiple cuts to restore the full thickness of tibia, which not only reduces potential error, but also saves time during measurements. Compared with a relatively shorter tibia in one cut, the reconstructed tibia provides a longer and clearer shaft to work with, which allows both proximal and distal circles to be drawn with higher precision (Figure 1). 1. Saltzman, C. L., & El-Khoury, G. Y. (1995). The hindfoot alignment view. Foot & Ankle International, 16(9), 572-576. 2. Arena, C. B., Sripanich, Y., Leake, R., Saltzman, C. L., & Barg, A. (2021). Assessment of hindfoot alignment comparing weightbearing radiography to weightbearing computed tomography. Foot & Ankle International, 42(11), 1482-1490.

Category: Ankle; Hindfoot Introduction/Purpose: Achilles tendon lengthening is commonly performed percutaneously, and the triple hemi-section step cut technique proposed by Hoke (1) is the method most commonly used. Despite its popularity, Hoke’s technique has been found to have limited lengthening capacity compared to the traditionally used open lengthening technique and therefore is only used in treating mild Achilles contracture. The senior author (MSM) developed a 5-step (quintuple) percutaneous hemi-section technique for lengthening, demonstrated to be a reliable procedure. The purpose of this cadaveric study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the quintuple compared to the triple cut technique. Methods: Four matched pairs of above-knee specimens were randomly assigned to the triple and the other to the quintuple hemi-section group. The Achilles insertion and musculotendinous junction were fully exposed to ensure that tenotomies were performed in a standardized manner. Lengthening was measured with optical markers at the most distal cut and 15 cm proximally. Measurements were performed on a universal testing machine (Instron) with the forefoot and femur fixed, and the knee in extension (Figure 1). The ankle was dorsiflexed under a constant load to 45N. Lengthening was performed 1 cm above the Achilles insertion following a medial-lateral-medial order at 3 cm intervals. The load was gradually increased until maximum dorsiflexion. The dorsiflexion angle, the tendon lengthening, the load needed to achieve the maximum ankle dorsiflexion and any rupture of the Achilles was recorded. Two-sample t-test was used for comparing continuous variables. Statistical analysis was performed with SAS 9.4. Results: There was no statistical difference between the dorsiflexion angle of the two groups under 45N load with an intact Achilles. The quintuple procedure achieved more lengthening than the triple group, reflected in both the maximum dorsiflexion angle under 45N and the lengthening of the tendon between the optical markers. The quintuple technique produced an average of 34.41mm of lengthening, and the triple cut 11.36mm under 45N force. The quintuple technique produced an average of 16.58 degrees of dorsiflexion compared with the triple cut of 10.53 degrees under 45N force. The load required to reach the maximum ankle dorsiflexion in the quintuple group was less (222.9N) than that in the triple group (334.6N). There were no ruptures of the Achilles in the quintuple group and 2 tendon ruptures in the triple technique. Conclusion: The quintuple lengthening is safe and has an increased capacity for tendon lengthening, an advantage over the triple hemi-section technique. Excessive force on the foot attempting to gain more dorsiflexion using the triple cut technique can be avoided with the quintuple procedure in all cases, particularly when adequate dorsiflexion cannot be obtained. References Hoke M. An operation for the correction of extremely relaxed flat feet. J Bone Joint Surg Am. 1931;13:773-783. Hoefnagels EM, Waites MD, Belkoff SM, Swierstra BA. Percutaneous Achilles tendon lengthening: a cadaver-based study of failure of the triple hemisection technique. Acta Orthop. 2007 Dec;(6):808-12

Category: Arthroscopy; Ankle; Hindfoot; Sports Introduction/Purpose: Haglund's syndrome is a common cause of posterior heel pain and can be associated with retrocalcaneal bursitis and degenerative Achilles tendinosis. Open approaches for resection of the Haglund's lesion have long been employed in patients that fail to improve with conservative treatment. This often involves partial elevation of the Achilles insertion with reattachment. More recently, endoscopic surgical techniques have evolved, enabling more rapid rehabilitation with less tendon disruption. The decision on the surgical approach is influenced by the degree of insertional Achilles tendinosis with endoscopic techniques preferred in the absence of insertional pathology. The primary objective of this investigation was to report on a large series of patients treated surgically for symptomatic Haglund's lesions. Methods: We reviewed the outcomes of Haglund's syndrome surgical cases at our institution over a five-year period. We included cases with insertional Achilles tendinosis and retrocalcaneal bursitis related to the Haglund's lesion, but excluded revisions and cases involving flexor hallucis longus tendon transfers. We recorded patient demographics, sport and activity level, comorbidities, BMI, duration of symptoms, surgical technique, tourniquet time, rehabilitation protocol, postoperative complications, and duration of postoperative follow-up. We also reviewed relevant preoperative imaging and recorded the presence of Achilles insertional degenerative calcification or an insertional calcaneal enthesophyte on radiographs. We then prospectively administered questionnaires regarding return to sport and patient-reported outcome measures including the SANE, PASS, VISA-A and PROMIS (Physical Function, Pain Interference and Global Health domains). Results: In total, 17 of the 77 (22%) included cases were performed with the endoscopic surgical technique. Six patients underwent bilateral Haglund surgeries during the study period, accounting for 12 of the 77 cases. The open Haglund resection group had a higher rate of concomitant Achilles insertional degenerative calcification on radiographs and MRI (72%). In addition, the open group was older than the endoscopic group (average age 54 vs 45), had a higher rate of comorbidities, higher rate of postoperative complications, and a higher rate of return to the operating room for revision surgery (11% vs 0% for endoscopic). Seventeen patients were elite distance running athletes and were preferentially treated by endoscopic techniques (11/17, 64%). At 24-month follow-up, the majority of patients report return to baseline activity. Conclusion: Patients treated surgically for Haglund's syndrome and insertional Achilles tendinopathy generally have good outcomes. Outcomes are better for endoscopically treated patients compared to open treatment, although these patients tend to be younger, healthier, and have less Achilles tendons disease. Still, some degree of Achilles tendinopathy and limited intrasubstance calcification can be successfully addressed with the endoscopic technique. We are endeavoring to better define indications for, and limitations of, the endoscopic technique for insertional Haglund's disease.

Category: Hindfoot; Ankle; Midfoot/Forefoot Introduction/Purpose: The foot and ankle offset (FAO) was developed as a 3D biometric tool to measure hindfoot alignment on weightbearing CT (WBCT) scans. It corresponds to the offset between the hindfoot-to-forefoot midline and the talus and is reported as a percentage of foot-length. (1) Recently, with increased availability of WBCT in both research and clinical practice, the FAO has been widely used for hindfoot alignment assessment. (2) However, after extensive review of WBCT scans the authors of this study have noticed that FAO has a high false negative rate. This study aimed to demonstrate why FAO is inadequate in assessing 3D hindfoot alignment using both case examples and mathematical algorithms. Methods: This was a retrospective study including a cohort of 31 cases with various clinical diagnoses selected from a data base of WBCT in 260 patients. The deformities included valgus or varus ankle deformities, hindfoot deformities combined with sagittal plane deformities of the foot and ankle, rocker bottom foot deformity, ankle equinus, metatarsus primus elevatus, and first metatarsal plantarflexion. All of the latter deformities caused one or more parts of the triangular base for FAO evaluation (the 1st metatarsal, the 5th metatarsal and the calcaneus) to remain off the floor. The medical charts and WBCT scans of each patient were reviewed to evaluate the deformities in more detail. The FAO was measured by two fellowship trained foot and ankle surgeons separately. The clinical and radiographic diagnoses were compared with the FAO value to determine the accuracy and utility of the latter measurement. Limitations of FAO as a semi 3D tool using the tripod theory in assessing the hindfoot alignment were also demonstrated mathematically. Results: For each of these 31 cases examined, the hindfoot alignment information reflected by the FAO value was vastly different from the clinical and imaging study findings. (Table 1). Using the reference value for FAO (Normal 2.3% ± 2.9%, Varus −11.6%± 6.9%, and Valgus 11.4% ± 5.7%), 24 out of 31 cases in the cohort had a normal FAO value, however, among them there were 7 with a valgus ankle or distal tibia plus a normal or cavovarus hindfoot, 2 varus ankles with a normal hindfoot, 1 varus ankle with a valgus hindfoot, 3 cavovarus feet, 1 clubfoot, 1 equinus ankle with cavovarus foot, 2 equinus ankle with severe valgus hindfoot, 4 severe valgus hindfoot and 1 varus hindfoot with sagittal plane deformities, 2 Muller Weiss Disease; 5 out of 31 cases had a varus FAO value, but they all had a valgus ankle with either a varus hindfoot or sagittal plane deformities; 2 out of 31 cases had a valgus FAO value, however both cases had a valgus ankle with a varus hindfoot. Thorough algorithm and geometric evidence were provided. Conclusion: FAO has a very limited capacity to reflect hindfoot deformities, understandable when analyzing how the FAO is designed and measured mathematically. It is not a 3D tool. It does not include the level of the ankle nor the tibia, therefore it is not appropriate nor capable to be used as a hindfoot alignment evaluation tool. The tripod and talus projection theories cannot reflect sagittal plane deformities or coronal plane rotation, and false results are inevitably generated. Reference: 1. Lintz F, Barton T, Millet M, Harries WJ, Hepple S, Winson IG. Ground reaction force calcaneal offset: a new measurement of hindfoot alignment. Foot Ankle Surg. 2012;18(1):9-14. 2. de Cesar Netto C, Day J, Godoy-Santos AL, Roney A, Barbachan Mansur NS, Lintz F, Ellis SJ, Demetracopoulos CA. The use of three-dimensional biometric Foot and Ankle Offset to predict additional realignment procedures in total ankle replacement. Foot Ankle Surg. 2022 Feb 16:S1268-7731(22)00036-4.

Category: Ankle Arthritis; Ankle; Other Introduction/Purpose: Total ankle replacement (TAR) is an effective procedure to help patients with end-stage osteoarthritis regain mobility and function. While previous studies have suggested that pre-operative factors such as stress or depression may influence the success of TAR, there is limited literature investigating this relationship. The goal of this study is to evaluate differences in functional and pain outcomes following TAR from patients with high and average PROMIS depression scores. Methods: Patients enrolled in the Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Outcomes Research (OFAR) platform who underwent total ankle replacement were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were included if they had PROMIS outcomes collected both pre- and 12- months post-operatively. Patients were grouped as 'no/low depression' if they scored below 60 on the PROMIS depression scale, and 'high depression' if they scored greater than or equal to 60 (one standard deviation from the population mean). Statistical differences were evaluated non-parametrically using Wilcoxon rank tests and Mann-Whitney U tests. Results: 36 patients who underwent TAR met inclusion criteria for analysis. Based on pre-operative PROMIS depression scores, 28 patients were categorized 'no/low depression' (ND), and 8 were categorized as 'high depression' (HD). Both groups showed significant improvement in PROMIS physical function and PROMIS pain interference at 12-months. While the HD group had a significantly higher baseline PROMIS pain interference (65.8) compared to the ND group (58.4, p < 0.05), there was no significant difference between the two groups at 12-months (50.5 vs. 47.6, respectively). Similarly, while there was a significant difference in PROMIS depression score pre-operatively between HD and ND (62.5 vs. 48.3, p < 0.05), there was no significant difference 12- months post-operatively (52.5 vs. 45.8). Conclusion: Our data suggests that patients with high pre-operative PROMIS depression scores may have worse baseline physical function and pain interference compared to other patients but see greater overall improvement after total ankle arthroplasty. Patients in the 'high depression' group also showed a significant improvement in PROMIS depression score 12- months post-operatively. Additional investigation of large, non-commercial outcomes databases, such as OFAR, may also help determine which surgical interventions impact mental health outcomes.

Category: Other; Ankle; Hindfoot; Lesser Toes; Midfoot/Forefoot Introduction/Purpose: The automation and integration of patient reported outcomes (PROs) into standard of care practice and electronic health systems is becoming increasingly viable. While often collected as a quality assurance measure for a practice and surgical decision-making, PROs are also valuable to assess the relative treatment outcomes. In order for physicians to gain the most insight from PROs, more baseline outcomes are needed to serve as a benchmark of anticipated patient improvement following surgical interventions. The goal of this study is to evaluate differences in patient improvement among validated physical and mental health PROs in a foot and ankle surgery practice. Methods: Consecutive patients undergoing foot and ankle surgery were enrolled into the U-COSMOS pathway. All PROs are automatically distributed and tracked through a secure, HIPAA-compliant, online PRO data capture tool. All patients are invited to complete the PROMIS Physical Function (PF) Computer Adaptive Test (CAT), PROMIS Pain Interference CAT (PI), Foot and Ankle Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE), PROMIS Global Physical Health (GPH), PROMIS Global Mental Health (GMH), PROMIS Depression, and a brief resiliency scale (BRS). PROs are collected pre-operatively, and post-operatively at 3- months, 6-months, 12-months, and 24-months. In this study, differences between pre- and post-operative scores for each PRO are evaluated using an unpaired Mann-Whitney U Test. Results: To date, 3154 patients have been enrolled into the U-COSMOS foot and ankle surgery pathway. Overall survey compliance was 77%. A significant improvement was seen in PF, PI, SANE, and GPH at 6-months, 12-months, and 24-months (p < 0.0001, see Table 1). There was no significant improvement in PF or GPH at the 3-month mark, supporting reduction of pain interference may be observed before return of physical function. All PROs measuring changes in mental health or resilience (Depression, GMH, BRS) did not significantly change at any post-operative visit relative to baseline. We found a mild positive correlation between BRS and improved 12-month PF and PI outcomes and a mild inverse correlation between pre-operative depression and 12-month PI and PF scores. Conclusion: Our data suggests that foot and ankle surgery leads to significant improvement in physical outcomes such as function or pain interference, but mental health and resilience outcomes remain somewhat unchanged throughout treatment on average. Within physical outcomes, we also find significant improvement in pain interference precedes functional and general measures. Early findings from the U-COSMOS outcomes pathway demonstrates greater overall improvement in physical health PROs, and a sustained improvement up to 24 months post-op. Future investigation of outcomes specific to procedures and conditions within the U-COSMOS pathway will help elucidate anticipated variation from general trends.

Category: Other Introduction/Purpose: In recent years, digital publishing and indexing have accelerated the pace of collaboration in foot and ankle (FA) research. As journals become more electronically accessible, authors have greater opportunity to submit to journals that are most appropriate for their work and relevant to the global community. While previous studies have reported general publishing trends in FA research, there is little information available on which topics and authorship practices bring the greatest value to the orthopaedic community. The goal of this study is to investigate global and journal-specific factors associated with high- impact FA research, including sub-topics and collaboration trends. Methods: We examined 43 orthopedic journals, including FA-specific journals, general orthopedic journals, and sports medicine journals. We utilized the National Library of Medicine's MEDLINE database for general article information, and Web of Science's (WOS) Journal Citation Report for citation counts. All 43 journals were indexed in both MEDLINE and WOS. We categorized articles as FA-specific using a keyword search. To measure the impact factor of a journal, we calculated a 5-year 'impact factor' following modified WOS guidelines (Total citations in 2020 for articles published 2015-2019 / total publications from 2015-2019). To measure individual 'article impact', we calculated the average citations/year for that article following publication. Only articles published in the last five years were included for each topic to ensure all article averages are current. Other variables, such as publishing nationality, number of authors, and article type were collected using MEDLINE article metadata and keyword searches. Results: A total of 7,679 FA-specific articles published in 43 journals were included for analysis. Globally, US authors publish the greatest number of first-author FA articles (32%, Figure 1a), followed by the UK (8%), China (6%), and South Korea (5%). Author nation of origin varies considerably by journal; FAI is composed of 53% American first-authors, while 13% of articles from the international journal KSSTA feature American first-authors. Article impact also varies considerably by topic (Figure 1b). Sports- related FA articles, for example, outperform the average FA article in citations/year (2.27 vs. 1.69, p < 0.0001), while deformity- related articles underperform the FA average (1.25, p < 0.0001). The number of authors has a strong positive correlation with article impact (r = 0.88, Figure 1c). Conclusion: A clear understanding of publication trends in the literature allows authors to select the most appropriate journal readership for their work. American authors are global leaders in FA publications, and primarily publish in American journals. We found that many factors, including article sub-topic and authorship group size, influence article impact and journal impact factor. These findings raise opportunities for collaboration, research focus and journal selection. Monitoring publication trends allows authors and journal editors to more accurately predict high-impact areas of research, and to identify potentially under- represented fields needing greater attention and investigation.

Category: Trauma; Ankle; Hindfoot; Sports Introduction/Purpose: Achilles tendon ruptures are challenging injuries and complications following Achilles repair surgery can lead to poor patient outcomes. The objective of this study was to determine if time to surgery and an open versus closed surgical technique were related to postoperative complications. We hypothesized that an increased time to surgery and an open surgical technique would correlate with an increase in complications. Methods: One hundred ninety-four patients at a single institution who underwent Achilles rupture repair surgery between October 2016 and November 2020 were included. All patients had a minimum follow-up of 3 months +- 14 days. A retrospective review was performed collecting data which included injury and treatment timepoints, surgical technique (open or percutaneous), and complications. Patients were separated into 3 categories based on time to surgery: acute (6 weeks). Complications were categorized as minor (wounds and/or infections that resolved with outpatient care), major (wounds and/or infections requiring operative intervention), re-rupture, DVT, and all other complications. A Fisher's exact test was used to determine if there was a statistically significant relationship between time to surgery and post-surgical complications as well as surgical technique and post-surgical complications. Results: In total, 194 patients were included for analysis: 134 with an acute rupture (69%), 36 sub-acute (18.6%), and 24 chronic (12.4%). 45 complications were observed in 37 patients (19.0% of patients); 8 patients had a minor complication (4.1%), 8 major (4.1%), 7 re-ruptures (3.6%), 12 DVTs (6.2%), and 8 others (4.1%). 25 acute ruptures had complications (18.7%), 6 sub-acute (16.7%), and 6 chronic (25%). No statistical differences were determined between time to surgery or surgical technique and complications among groups. There was an increase in complications in the chronic group, the most notable being Achilles tendon re-rupture (P = 0.06). The mean re-rupture time from the date of original injury to surgery was 47 days (range 3-131 days), and mean time from surgery to re-rupture was 49 days (range 7-133 days). Conclusion: This study did not demonstrate any statistically significant relationship between time to surgery or open versus percutaneous surgical technique and post-surgical complications following operative treatment of Achilles ruptures. Though not statistically significant, complications and re-ruptures were more frequent in patients undergoing surgery >6 weeks following injury. These results suggest increased time to surgery may be a predictor of increased risk for postoperative complications following Achilles repair surgery, however further research including studies with larger patient populations is needed to support this determination.

Category: Hindfoot; Ankle Introduction/Purpose: Weight Bearing CT (WBCT) has been proven to be effective in hindfoot alignment assessment. However, we have noted that in both WBCT examination and evaluation, positioning of the foot has not been sufficiently prioritized. We hypothesized that changing the foot orientation will significantly affect the measurement of the hindfoot, which will in turn affect further clinical decision making. Methods: WBCT scans of ten feet without any foot and ankle deformity were loaded in CubeVue software. The foot was aligned to a neutral (0°) position based on the 2nd ray and the heel, and was then rotated 5°, 10°, 15° and 20° both externally and internally to simulate malposition. The 'semi' three dimensional hindfoot Moment Arm (HMA) was evaluated with the foot in these different positions. For measured parameters, varus alignment was recorded as a negative value, and valgus alignment was recorded as a positive value. Each measurement was repeated twice to minimize bias. A linear regression model was used to analyze the relationship of the HMA value and the rotation angles. An intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) model was used to assess the intra- and interobserver reliability. Statistical analysis was completed using SAS 9.4. Results: When rotating the foot from external 20° to internal 20°, the HMA demonstrated a linear change in hindfoot alignment from varus to valgus. A 1° increase in the rotation angle caused 0.52 (±0.03) mm increase in the HMA value (Figure 1). The HMA measurements had excellent inter- and intra-observer reliability (ICC >= 0.9) (Table 1). Both CT images and measured values confirmed that internal rotation changed a neutral into a valgus hindfoot, and external rotation changed a neutral hindfoot into varus (Figure 2). Conclusion: When using current two or 'semi' three-dimensional methods to evaluate hindfoot alignment on WBCT scans, positioning the foot in the correct orientation is critical. Malrotation and malposition of the foot will cause significant impact on measurements and generate false data as well as misdiagnoses. This study was performed on normal feet but is clinically relevant when applied to deformities, particularly those associated with abduction or adduction of the midfoot and forefoot while current knowledge about deformed foot positioning is limited. This is an important topic for future investigation.

Category: Sports; Ankle; Trauma Introduction/Purpose: Foot and ankle injuries account for a large percentage of the over one million injuries sustained by high school level athletes. To date, many studies have examined the epidemiology of lower extremity injuries and ankle sprains, but few studies have classified sprains into subtypes across multiple sports. The purpose of this study was to describe the epidemiology of ankle sprain subtypes across 9 common high school sports. Methods: Athlete exposure and injury specific data from 7 seasons (2014 to 2021) were collected using the internet-based High School Reporting Information Online (High School RIO), a national high school sports injury surveillance system, for athletes participating in 1 of 9 sports (boys' and girls' soccer, girls' volleyball, boys' and girls' basketball, boys' baseball, girls' softball, boys' football, boys' wrestling). Incidence and ligament involvement of foot and ankle injuries were examined, with incidence being calculated as 1 injury per 10,000 athlete exposures (AE). Results: Ankle ligament injuries accounted for 89.0% of the 7,321 foot and ankle injuries across the 9 sports (81-94%). Girls and boys' basketball had the highest incidence of sprains, 3.46 and 3.37 respectively. Ankle ligament injuries accounted for 35.9% of all lower extremity injuries in basketball players. 85.0% of the sprains were classified as lateral ligament, 4.0% medial ligament, 11.5% syndesmosis (8.6% partial and 2.9% complete syndesmosis injuries). Football had the highest percentage of syndesmosis injuries at 11.0%, and the highest incidence of both syndesmosis injuries (0.44) and medial ligament injuries (0.17). Surgical intervention was required in 4.3% of complete syndesmosis injuries and 0.7% of lateral ligament injuries. No differences were found in incidence of ankle ligament injuries comparing pre-COVID-19 seasons (2014-2020) to the 2020-2021 season. Conclusion: Ankle sprains account for a large percentage of foot and ankle injuries sustained by high school level athletes. Syndesmosis injuries occur more commonly in football and are 6 times more likely to require early surgical intervention compared to lateral ligament injuries. Identifying sports commonly involved in these injuries and classifying the sprains is the first step in implementing early identification, rehabilitation, and prevention programs. Future studies should examine the efficacy of injury prevention programs and rates of ankle sprains among high school level athletes.

Category: Other Introduction/Purpose: Research plays a central role in advancing orthopedic medicine. Not only do high publication volumes encourage greater transparency and evidence-based practice, early-career physicians are also often evaluated by the number and impact of their publications. According to 2020 NRMP match data, 81% of medical students who successfully matched into orthopedics have five or more publications. With the expanded number and variety of journals available today, however, it can be burdensome for authors to effectively determine the journal that is most suitable for a given project. This study aims to provide a comprehensive guide to the current foot and ankle orthopedic literature and to help physicians quickly identify where they may have the greatest impact. Methods: We examined 61 orthopedic journals, including both general orthopedic and foot and ankle (FA) specialty journals. We applied the National Library of Medicine's MEDLINE database for keyword searches, and Web of Science's (WOS) Journal Citation Report for citation data. Journals were excluded from this study if they were not indexed in both MEDLINE and WOS over the last five years (2016-2020). As a measure of relevance, we used a keyword search to determine the number of articles that are foot and ankle specific for each journal (FA %). We calculated the five-year impact factor for both the total journal (Total IF) and specifically for foot and ankle articles in the journal (FA IF). Impact factors were calculated following standard Journal Citation Reports methods. Other variables, such as publishing nationality, number of authors, and article type were also collected to identify variables that may be associated with higher impact. Results: 43/61 journals met the indexing inclusion criteria and 47,680 publications were thereafter analyzed (Table 1). Foot and ankle articles make up less than 20% of all non-FA journals, with KSSTA (17% FA) and JOT (15% FA) publishing the most. While there is a fair correlation between the impact factor of a journal and the impact factor of FA articles (R2=0.89), journal-wide impact factors do not always predict success. KSSTA, for example, has a high FA article impact factor of 4.11 despite a journal- wide impact factor of 3.74. Author demographics also vary widely depending on the journal publishing country. While 42.4% of all articles feature an author from the US, the number of US authors in American and international journal articles is 64.3% and 20.3%, respectively. Conclusion: There are few tools specific to foot and ankle topics that authors can use to assess journals appropriate for a given project. Bibliometric analyses offer an efficient and objective method for authors to identify relevant journals, and readerships, they may not have otherwise considered. While some non-FA journals offer a higher average impact for FA articles, FA articles compose a small percentage of the journal portfolio. Journals vary in acceptance of review articles and case reports versus original research. A better understanding of journal publication trends may facilitate optimal journal selection, and improve publication efficiency and impact.

Category: Midfoot/Forefoot; Other Introduction/Purpose: Recently, a group of experts proposed Progressive Collapsing Foot Deformity (PCFD) as a new terminology to describe better the complexity of this pathology, as well as a new staging system based on rigidity and different patterns of deformity. The proposed system (Table 1) better incorporates recent data and understanding of the condition, better allowing for standardization of reporting, and guiding treatment decision-making to achieve optimal outcomes. The classification includes two Stages: flexible (1) and rigid (2) deformity each of which may or may not be associated with five subclasses of deformity including hindfoot valgus (A), midfoot abduction (B), forefoot supination (C), peritalar subluxation (D), and ankle valgus instability (E). This paper aims to determine the reliability and the validity of the PCFD classification system. Methods: This is a survey-based study distributed through REDCap. Participants were provided with video and case examples explaining how the classification system is used. Three groups of surgeons (Group 1 fellows in training, Group 2 surgeons in practice for 1-4 years, and Group 3 in practice 5 years or more) classified 20 cases of PCFD. Correct response rates for the 20 cases, and subclasses and substages of each individual case were calculated. The mean and 95% confidence interval were used to describe normally distributed numerical data. Values of the above parameters were compared among the three different groups using Tukey-Kramer HSD test of Oneway ANOVA. P

Category: Ankle; Sports; Other Introduction/Purpose: In order to monitor student-athlete health, identify risk factors associated with sports injuries, and develop and evaluate injury prevention programs at the collegiate level, it is necessary to implement and utilize high quality sports injury surveillance systems. The Pac-12 Health Analytics Program (HAP) addresses this need by standardizing electronic medical record entries and common data elements across all Pac-12 institutions. The literature suggests that collegiate student-athletes are at higher risk for certain injuries that have chronic effects on their health-related quality of life. Previous investigations utilizing the HAP database found ankle injuries to be the second most prevalent lower extremity injury in this population. This study aims to build upon these previous findings and further characterize below-knee injuries using the HAP database. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed archival data from Pac-12 student-athletes followed in the HAP database, a deidentified Pac-12 conference-wide sports injury surveillance system used to study the epidemiological characteristics of varsity student- athletes from 2017-2020. Data collection is part of the standard of care provided by varsity athletic trainers and entered into the Presagia Sports electronic medical record. This data is then deidentified and automatically sent to the Pac-12 for inclusion in the HAP. Individual authorization forms were obtained from student-athlete participants prior to deidentification and inclusion in the HAP database. Student-athletes who sustained a lower extremity (LE) injury below the knee were included. Data on demographics and injury characteristics were analyzed. Results: Foot and ankle injuries account for 20.3% (6,776/33,432) of all database injuries, representing 23.4% (2,214/9,444) of all student-athletes. Female-athletes (26.8%) had a higher injury rate than male-athletes (20.9%) (p

Category: Ankle; Trauma Introduction/Purpose: Syndesmosis injuries are increasingly common. Available fixation options are not yet optimal. The PUMA System (Panther Orthopedics, Sunnyvale, CA) is an FDA-cleared superelastic, nitinol-based fixation device for the ankle syndesmosis which provides stabilization without over-compression or loosening during cyclical loading. The spring-like design of the PUMA System allows physiological micro-motion while maintaining continuous compression and resisting syndesmosis widening, without material creep. The objective of this prospective study is to assess the effectiveness and complication rate of the PUMA device for treatment of fracture-associated syndesmosis injuries. Methods: We prospectively collected radiographic and clinical data on 32 consecutive patients treated for fracture-associated syndesmotic disruption with the PUMA System TM at 8 centers. Primary outcome measures included adverse event rates, radiographic evaluations for syndesmosis integrity and implant failure, and rates of revision surgery. Results: All 32 patients had successful repair of their ankle syndesmosis (Figure 1). The mean age of patients at time of operation was 42 years (range 16- 68). There were 13 females (13/32, 40.6%) and 19 (19/32, 59.4%) males. Postoperative radiographic evaluations confirmed satisfactory syndesmosis healing with maintained reduction in the ankle mortise in 33/33 (100%) ankles. There was no evidence of lysis, device migration or syndesmotic or medial clear space widening. There were no infections or soft tissue complications. All fractures healed. No devices required removal and there were no revision surgeries. Conclusion: The PUMA System TM provides physiologic stabilization of the syndesmosis due to the design features that allow for continuous compression without creep. We found no device-related complications nor construct failures in our series. The superelastic implant design allows physiologic motion at the syndesmosis but does not creep or stretch following displacement. This flexibility obviates the need for routine removal. The implant's low-profile buttons without suture and knot tying requirements eliminate the concern for subcutaneous knot irritation and slippage. Additional biomechanical and clinical outcomes study of this device may further optimize rehabilitation protocols for patients treated for syndesmotic injury.

Category: Midfoot/Forefoot; Other Introduction/Purpose: Hallux rigidus is a common condition estimated to affect 1 in 40 adults older than 60 years old. Patients experience functional limitations secondary to progressive pain and stiffness of the 1st metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint. Historically, 1st MTP arthrodesis has been considered the gold-standard treatment for end-stage hallux rigidus. In 2016, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of a synthetic cartilage implant (SCI) for the treatment of hallux rigidus grades 2-4 with an aim to improve pain and preserve range of motion at the 1st MTP joint. Studies evaluating patient satisfaction and need for reoperation have varied considerably (4-20%). We aim to evaluate outcomes, complication rate, revision rate, and overall satisfaction for patients undergoing primary SCI for hallux rigidus. Methods: In a single-institution retrospective study, we evaluated patients undergoing primary SCI for hallux rigidus between August 2016 to May 2020 by three fellowship-trained foot and ankle surgeons. Preoperatively, patient demographics, age at the time of surgery, laterality, body mass index (BMI), hallux rigidus grade, hallux valgus angle, and first-second intermetatarsal angle were collected. Operative reports were reviewed for concomitant procedures and implant size. Postoperatively, we recorded all additional treatments for continued pain or stiffness and need for revision surgery or conversion to arthrodesis. Patients were surveyed via email or telephone by an author not previously involved in their care administering patient reported outcomes (PROs): PROMIS physical function (PF), and pain interference (PI) surveys, foot and ankle SANE score, and a satisfaction survey. Results: A total of 59 feet in 56 patients underwent a primary SCI procedure for hallux rigidus. Patients were classified as grade 2 (32%), 3 (59%), or 4 (2%). Nineteen (34%) patients underwent additional procedures, and 8 (14%) had a history of prior surgery to the MTP joint. Forty-five patients (80%) completed surveys at an average of 19.5-month follow-up. The majority (58%) considered surgery a success and 42% reported being unsatisfied or very unsatisfied. Mean (+-SD) post-operative foot and ankle SANE, PROMIS PF and PI scores were 57 (+-27), 48 (+-7) and 54 (+-9), respectively. The overall revision rate was 11% (6/56) with 3 patients undergoing conversion to arthrodesis. The majority of patients (61%) stated they would undergo the procedure again. Conclusion: Consistent with existing literature, we found that the majority of patients undergoing the procedure were satisfied and would undergo the procedure again. Further, post-operative PRO scores were favorable, even when factoring in patients who were less satisfied. While our revision rate (11%) is consistent with early studies of the implant, 42% reported being unsatisfied or very unsatisfied with their procedure. These findings emphasize the importance of preoperative patient counseling regarding post- operative limitations, risks, satisfaction, and revisions rates. Further investigation into factors that may predict successful outcomes is needed to inform surgical decision-making and appropriate patient selection for this procedure.

Category: Ankle; Ankle Arthritis; Basic Sciences/Biologics; Trauma Introduction/Purpose: Osteoarthritis (OA) of the lower limb is a debilitating, incurable, expensive and prevalent condition in people over 45. Although ankle posttraumatic OA (PTOA) has the highest incidence, primary OA is increasingly recognized. The difference in OA incidence between lower limb joints is partly driven by differences in cartilage architecture and chondrocyte function at each site, with ankle chondrocytes showing reduced responsiveness to inflammatory mediators and more metabolic activity than those in the knee. Synovium also contributes to the pathogenesis of OA, however its potentially differential role in knee versus ankle OA remains an unanswered question. We aim to understand the molecular contribution of synovial dysregulation in the progression of ankle and knee OA to uncover candidate pathways for the development of targeted therapeutic paradigms. Methods: After obtaining informed consent from patients undergoing total knee or ankle replacement, basic surgical, past medical history, and imaging data was collected. Synovium samples were harvested during surgery and processed for RNA. Bulk 150 bp, paired-end RNA seq was conducted using standard protocols using the Illumina NovaSeq6000 platform. After quality control trimming, reads were aligned to human reference genome (GRCh38) using STAR (v 2.5) using the Maximum Mappable Prefix method and HTSeq (V0.6.1) was used to index mappable reads per gene. Counts were corrected for gene length using the FPKM method. Differential expression was determined using the edgeR (v 3.16.5) package for R, after adjustment using a scaling normalization factor and P-values were corrected using the Benjamini and Hochberg method. Similarities between samples were determined using Spearman Correlation and degree of similarity was visualized considering the first three Principal Components (PC). Results: RNA was obtained from 6 end-stage ankle OA, 1 end-stage knee OA patients. Of the ankle samples, two were PTOA and the remaining four were primary OA. The PTOA and the primary OA samples showed high sample correlation regardless of class (correlation coefficients ranged from 0.844 to 0.941). In contrast, the total knee sample was less correlated with the ankle samples (correlation coefficients ranged from 0.719 to 0.878). By using the first three PC, we observed that there was no obvious differentiation among the ankle OA samples, but there was clear separation between ankle and total knee samples. We observed an enrichment of genes annotated to the Gene Ontology clusters 'Extracellular Structure Organization' and 'Inflammatory Response' when comparing the two types of OA. Conclusion: These initial pilot results of an ongoing study support our hypothesis that synovial transcriptome differs between the knee and ankle in end-stage osteoarthritis and that anatomic site is a larger driver of synovial expression differences than OA type. This is supported by previous differences reported between ankle and knee chondrocytes in end-stage OA. These findings emphasize the importance of investigating synovial tissue to better understand the microenvironment of the ankle joint and pathogenesis of all etiologies of OA. The ultimate goal is the development of clinical tests and therapeutics aimed at slowing or discontinuing the degenerative process in ankle arthritis.

Category: Ankle; Ankle Arthritis; Basic Sciences/Biologics; Other Introduction/Purpose: Total ankle arthroplasty through the anterior approach (TAR-AA) is an increasingly popular treatment for ankle arthritis. This approach carries significant risk for wound complications. Several products have been investigated to mitigate this risk, but these are either costly or invasive. Noninvasive skin expansion strips (NSESs) have two nonelastic adhesive strips, one on either side of the incision, with an elastic band connecting them. These were designed to induce new skin growth at the edges of the strips for plastic surgery applications. In the postoperative setting, the NSES functions to transfer tension away from the site of the incision to the edge of the strips. We hypothesize that postoperative application of NSESs will decrease unplanned clinic visits and wound complications after TAR-AA. Methods: This is a prospective cohort study with retrospectively identified historical controls designed to evaluate the effectiveness of NSESs. Prospectively enrolled patients undergoing TAR-AA at a single institution (3 surgeons) received application of NSESs in the operating room after routine wound closure. At their two-week postoperative visit, each wound was assessed and new NSESs were applied. No other changes were made to the surgeons' wound closure technique, immobilization, follow-up cadence, or rehabilitation protocols. Patients following up with providers outside the institution were excluded. Thirty five consecutive historical controls were identified for comparison. Primary outcomes included (1) Additional clinic visit required for wound assessment or suture removal, (2) superficial wound complication before 8 weeks, and (3) deep infection before 8 weeks. Z-score test was used to calculate statistically significant (p

Category: Ankle; Other Introduction/Purpose: As the American healthcare system evolves into a value-based reimbursement model, emphasis on tracking and reporting healthcare outcomes has expounded. Patient reported outcome Measures (PROMs) are exceedingly valuable to orthopedists as a means to measure improvement and satisfy regulatory requirements. The NIH Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) surveys are favored due to their accessibility, efficiency, and minimal floor and ceiling effects. Furthermore, they have been shown to predict outcomes after orthopedic surgeries. Psychosocial factors have also become increasingly important in predicting surgical outcomes. We aim to report the development and implementation of an institutional PRO data collection platform, including PRO completion rates and improvements in PROs for patients undergoing orthopaedic surgery. Methods: We implemented a secure, HIPAA compliant, automated and EHR integrated, institutional platform to collect PROMs using a cloud-based tool. Patients undergoing surgery by sports medicine and foot and ankle surgeons were included and organized into four surgical pathways: (1) foot and ankle, (2) sports-knee, (3) sports-hip, and (4) sports-shoulder. PROMIS Physical Function (PF), PROMIS Pain interference (PI), site-specific (foot and ankle, knee, hip, and shoulder) Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE), and the brief resiliency scale (BRS) were collected at the patient's pre-operative visit. The PROMIS and SANE surveys were again collected at 3-, 6-, and 12-month post-operative visits. Surveys were disseminated automatically and patients were able to complete PROMs onsite on secure tablets or remotely through their personal device. Primary outcomes included compliance rates, baseline PRO scores, and change in scores at the various post-operative timepoints for patients in the four surgical pathways. Results: More than 6,000 patients were included, with majority of patients from the sports-knee (47%), followed by sports- shoulder (27%), foot and ankle (23%), and sports-hip (4%) pathways. Average completion rate was highest at the pre-operative timepoint for all pathways (81%), with completion rates of 62% at 50% at 6 months and 45% at 12MO. Compliance rates were lowest highest in the foot and ankle pathway at 12 months (62%). Average baseline scores for all patients were 40.8 for PROMIS PF, 61.1 PROMIS PI, 41 SANE, and 3.9 for BRS. Baseline scores didn't significantly vary between the surgical pathways. Scores improved for all patient pathways at all timepoints for PROMIS PF, PI and SANE PROMs (Table 1). No workflow disruptions were noted for survey administration. Conclusion: Tracking PROs using an automated platform is feasible in orthopaedic clinics. Compliance rates are very good and dependent on provider, staff, and patient buy-in. Patients undergoing surgery had an average baseline PROMIS PI scores >=1 standard deviation from the normal population and all scores improved after surgery. Importantly, statistical significance doesn't always reflect minimum clinically important differences (MCIDs). MCIDs for PROMIS PF and PI have been reported to fall between 5-10 points depending on range of values and methods of calculation. Further investigation into outcomes by procedure type and patient factors is warranted to identify predictive factors of surgical outcomes.

Category: Midfoot/Forefoot; Diabetes; Trauma Introduction/Purpose: Foot and ankle deformity correction through midfoot osteotomy can be implemented in a wide variety of clinical situations. Use of a circular ring fixator for osteotomy fixation is particularly useful for patients with poor soft tissue envelopes and/or active infection as can occur in diabetes and Charcot arthropathy. The foot pins in a ring fixator can be configured to apply compression at the osteotomy site. However, the optimal pin configuration and force has yet to be determined. The purpose of this study was to quantify compressive forces achieved across midfoot osteotomies with various wire configurations in a circular ring fixator construct. Methods: Nine through-knee amputation cadavers were stabilized with a standard circular external fixation carbon frame. A midfoot osteotomy through the transverse tarsal joint was performed using an oscillating saw. A 4mm bone wedge was removed from the osteotomy site for placement of a Tekscan pressure sensor. A two-ring frame was applied in the standard fashion and three parallel 1.8mm smooth wires were placed parallel to each other through the foot distal to the osteotomy: wire #1 proximally through the cuneiforms, wire #2 through the base of the metatarsals, wire #3 through the metatarsal shafts. After baseline pressure readings, wires were sequentially attached (wire #1 alone, wire #1-2, wire #1-3) to the ring fixator and tensioned to 90kg. Pressure readings were recorded at the osteotomy site for each sequential wire tensioning both at the hole location where the wire naturally crossed, 'neutral', and again at one hole 'proximal' (e.g., toward the osteotomy). Results: Average compressive load at neutral hole positioning for wire #1 was 382 N. The addition of wire #2 increased the compressive load to 439 N on average. The addition of wire #3 decreased compressive force to 372 N. Similar trends were seen in proximal hole positioning where average compressive force increased following tensioning of wire #2 from 580 N to 600 N but compressive force decreased on wire #3 addition to 425 N. Therefore, tensioning forefoot thin wires in the proximal hole position increases compressive forces by 50% compared to neutral position, and adding a second wire increased compressive force by up to 15% compared to a single forefoot wire. Conclusion: In a circular frame midfoot fusion model, the greatest compressive force was achieved with two wires tensioned in the proximal hole position. The addition of a third wire led to force decrease likely due to off-axis forces that may distract the osteotomy site given the difficulty of passing all wires perfectly parallel in all planes. Ideal positioning and tensioning of forefoot pins may optimize construct stability and compression and improve healing of the midfoot osteotomy.

Category: Ankle; Arthroscopy; Sports Introduction/Purpose: Ankle sprains are the most common ankle injury accounting for up to 85% of all ankle injuries, and nearly 20% of acute ankle sprains progress to chronic lateral ankle instability that requires surgical intervention. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in arthroscopic Broström techniques as an alternative to open surgery. In the past two years alone, four comparative studies have been published. Recent case series and cohort studies showed reliable improvement in clinical and radiographic outcomes with arthroscopic surgeryAIM. The current study aims at providing the foot and ankle surgery community with the most updated evidence comparing outcomes of open to arthroscopic Broström procedure for chronic lateral ankle instability. Methods: This article was performed following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Two independent authors searched several databases for relevant comparative studies in English literature were identified between database inceptions to May 2020. The primary outcomes were (1) Functional scores (KAFS, AOFAS) and (2) Pain score on VAS, whereas the secondary outcomes were differences in (1) anterior drawer and talar tilt, (2) surgical time and complications rate, (3) time to return to sports and weight-bearing. Population: Chronic lateral ankle instability (LAI)Intervention: Arthroscopic Broström procedure Control: Open Broström procedure Outcomes: Primary: Functional scores, pain Secondary: Anterior drawer and talar tilt, complications, time to return to sport and weight-bearing Results: A total of 408 patients in eight studies met the inclusion criteria were subjected to analysis. 193 (47.3%) patients underwent open surgery, while 215 (52.7%) patients underwent arthroscopic surgery. The one year-AOFAS was 80.05 vs. 88.6 in open and arthroscopic surgery, respectively (MD= -11.96, CI= -21.26, -2.76, I2= 82%, p= 0.01). The mean one year VAS was 2.05 and 1.45 in open and arthroscopic repair, respectively (MD= 0.31, CI= 0.09 to 0.54, I2=0%, p

Category: Ankle; Sports; Other Introduction/Purpose: High ankle sprains, or injuries to the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis, are predictive of long-term ankle dysfunction. Our objectives were to evaluate ankle mortise stability, radiographically, and kinematically, using a cadaveric model with a simulated syndesmotic injury. We also measured the ability of a suture-button system to restore natural joint motion. Methods: Eight cadaveric specimens underwent serial sectioning of the anterior-inferior tibiofibular (AITFL), interosseous (IOL), posterior-inferior tibiofibular (PITFL), and deltoid ligaments. Specimens underwent external rotation and lateral translation testing after ligament release to obtain kinematic data (using a validated infrared LED motion capture system) and radiographic measurements. We then repeated external rotation and lateral translation testing after implementing a suture-button system. Repeated measures ANOVA with a Bonferroni/Dunn post-hoc test calculated the interspecimen comparisons. Results: Sectioning of each ligament, beginning with the AITFL, significantly increased talar external rotation. After releasing the AITFL and IOL, fibular external rotation increased significantly. Posterior displacement of the fibula began following the release of AITFL. Significant radiographic widening of the medial clear space and the syndesmosis occurred only after the release of the deltoid ligament. Syndesmotic and medial clear space widening was not significantly different from the intact state under lateral translation until after the release of the deltoid ligament. Placement of the suture-button system successfully reduced the medial clear space but was unable to restore the native stability of the ankle joint. Conclusion: This project addresses rotational and kinematic changes in the ankle after syndesmotic injury by quantifying the effect of ligamentous disruption on the tibiotalar articulation. The change in joint kinematics may explain why patients with moderate-to-severe syndesmosis injuries take longer to heal and develop long-term dysfunction. Significant talar rotation and posterior fibular displacement occur during external rotation, even with moderate syndesmosis injury, and before the disruption of the deltoid ligament. Stress radiography does not appear to be a reliable indicator of mild or moderate syndesmosis injuries.

Category: Ankle; Sports Introduction/Purpose: There exists little consensus regarding optimal treatment protocols for syndesmotic injuries. Orthopedic clinicians have implemented a variety of treatment strategies, ranging from immobilization to screw fixation to new flexible fixation devices. While the body of literature is growing with regard to both the biomechanics and clinical outcomes for various constructs and rehabilitation protocols, there is little consensus on the optimal treatment and return to sport strategy for these injuries. We endeavored to assess current approaches to syndesmotic injuries by orthopedic foot and ankle specialists around the world in six athlete scenarios with increasing degrees of injury. Commensurate with the lack of available data to guide treatments, we hypothesize that there will be great variability in the treatment and management of syndesmotic injuries. Methods: A REDcap survey was created with 27 questions, including respondent demographics, indications for treatment of syndesmotic injuries, preferred treatment, preferred technique for repairing the syndesmosis, and post-operative management. Respondents were asked to choose their preferred fixation device and post-operative return to play protocols in six different athlete scenarios (moderate impact, high impact, and very high impact and each with/without complete deltoid injury). The survey was disseminated among the memberships of 18 North American and International medical societies. Society members were surveyed via three emails distributed two weeks apart. Frequencies and percentages were calculated for all categorical responses. Results: A total of 596 providers responded to the survey, including 337 American surgeons and 259 members of various international societies. There was a 70% survey completion rate with a wide geographic distribution among respondents. Flexible devices were the preferred fixation construct (48%), followed by screws (27%), hybrid fixation (19%) and other (6%). There was a higher preference for flexible devices among sports medicine trained providers (58%) relative to non-sports medicine trained providers (44%). 62% of respondents noted that their rehabilitation protocols would not change for each athlete scenario. Considerable variability was present in anticipated full return to sport, ranging from immediately following injury to six months post-op. 33% stated that they would repair the deltoid ‘greater than 50%’ of the time if injured. Conclusion: There is a wide variety of indications and treatment constructs employed by orthopedic surgeons for athletes with ligamentous syndesmotic injuries requiring fixation. Although flexible fixation devices are the preferred choice among all respondents, there was considerable variability in device choices. Fellowship training also appears to affect the preferred fixation method. There was no overall difference between device preference between North American and International respondents (Fig1). There also exists substantial variability in expected return to play for every athlete scenario. The diversity in approaches and post-operative recommendations underscores the need for evidence-based guidelines regarding the management of syndesmotic injuries.

Background: Documenting the healthy articulation of the syndesmosis and talocrural joints, and measurement of 3D medial and lateral clear spaces may improve diagnostic and treatment guidelines for patients suffering from severe syndesmotic injury or chronic instability. This study aimed to define the range of motion (ROM) and displacement of the fibula and talus during static and dynamic activities, and measure the 3D movement in the tibiofibular (syndesmosis) and medial clear space. Methods: Six healthy volunteers performed dynamic weightbearing motions on a single-leg: heel-rise, squat, torso twist, and box jump. Participants posed in a nonweightbearing neutral stance as well as weightbearing neutral standing, plantarflexion, and dorsiflexion. High-speed stereoradiography measured 3D rotation and translation of the fibula and talus throughout each task. Medial clear space and tibiofibular gap distances were measured under each condition. Results: Total ROM for the fibula was greatest in internal-external rotation (9.3 ± 3.5 degrees), and anteroposterior (3.3 ± 2.2 mm) and superior-inferior (2.5 ± 0.9 mm) translation, rather than lateral widening (1.7 ± 1.0 mm). The total rotational ROM of the talus was greatest in dorsiflexion-plantarflexion (34.7 ± 12.9 degrees) and internal-external rotation (15.0 ± 3.4 degrees). Single-leg squatting increased the lateral clear space ( P = .045) and widened the medial tibiofibular joint, whereas single-leg heel-rises decreased the lateral clear space ( P = .001) and widened the tibiotalar space. Gap spaces in the tibiofibular and medial clear spaces did not exceed 2.3 ± 0.9 mm and 2.7 ± 1.2 mm, respectively. Conclusion: These data support a potential shift in the clinical understanding of fibula displacements during dynamic activities and how implant device constructs might be developed to restore physiologic mechanics. Clinical Relevance: Syndesmosis stabilization and rehabilitation should consider restoration of normal physiologic rotation and translation of the fibula and ankle mortise rather than focusing solely on the restriction of lateral translation.

Category: Arthroscopy; Ankle; Trauma Introduction/Purpose: Ankle fractures are one of the most common types of fractures, yet there is currently no consensus about how best to treat these patients. The treatment approach typically includes open reduction-internal fixation (ORIF), but not all patients have a good clinical outcome. Intra-articular injuries have been suggested as one potential cause of these sub-optimal outcomes. Use of arthroscopy at the time of surgery is useful in identifying intra-articular lesions in acute ankle fractures, however, there is no evidence that arthroscopic intervention changes the patient’s outcome. Ankle arthroscopy increases the duration and potential complications of anesthesia administration and also increases cost. Our study assesses the clinical impact of arthroscopy accompanying an ankle fracture ORIF, which is essential to promote positive outcomes, while decreasing unnecessary complications and costs. Methods: This is a retrospective chart review. We queried all patients that underwent operative fixation of a bimalleolar or trimalleolar ankle fracture at our institution from January 1, 2014 through November 1, 2018. From this list, we excluded patients less than 18 years old and patients that had concomitant injuries to other body parts that required surgery. In addition, we only included Weber B and Weber C fibula fracture to homogenize the data. We then performed a chart review to extract all demographic data, fracture pattern, surgical procedures performed, tourniquet times, any revision surgeries, arthroscopic findings and any interventions performed due to the arthroscopic portion of the procedure. We then conducted a phone and email survey utilizing the Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Global Health Short Form and the two question Patient Acceptable Symptom State (PASS). Results: Our study included 213 total patients (142 traditional ORIF, 71 ORIF plus arthroscopy) with an average age of 40 (standard deviation 14.2). The average follow up was 32.4 (13.1) months with a survey follow up rate of 50.7%. The demographic information between the two cohorts was statistically similar. The average tourniquet time for the arthroscopy cohort is 10 minutes longer (89 minutes versus 79 minutes). During the arthroscopy, there was a 28.2% rate of full thickness osteochondral lesions, 33.8% rate of loose bodies, and a 49.2% rate of small cartilage injury not requiring intervention. The mean PROMIS physical function score amongst Weber B fibula fractures was 45.8 and 42.3 in the arthroscopy and non-arthroscopy groups respectively (P value 0.012). In addition, the patient satisfaction rate in Weber B fibula fractures was higher in those patients that underwent arthroscopy as compared to ORIF alone (93.1% versus 75.5%, P value of 0.05). Patients that suffered a tibiotalar joint dislocation at the time of the ankle fracture had a significantly higher PROMIS physical function score (46.6 versus 40.2, P value 0.005) when their surgery included arthroscopy. Conclusion: Ankle arthroscopy at the time of ORIF led to higher mean patient reported outcomes for every tested metric but this reached statistical significance only when looking at the Weber B fibula fractures and ankle dislocations. There was no increase in complication rate and the arthroscopy took only 10 minutes longer on average.

Background: Ankle fractures are one of the most common orthopedic injuries, and although most patients have a satisfactory outcome following operative fixation, there are patients that have persistent pain despite anatomic reduction. Intra-articular injuries have been suggested as one potential cause of these suboptimal outcomes. Our study assesses the clinical impact of performing an ankle arthroscopy during ankle fracture open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). Methods: This was a retrospective chart review of all patients who underwent operative fixation of a bimalleolar or trimalleolar ankle fracture at our institution from 2014 through 2018. We extracted all demographic data, fracture pattern, operative procedures performed, tourniquet times, arthroscopic findings and any arthroscopic interventions. We then conducted a phone and e-mail survey. Our study included 213 total patients (142 traditional ORIF, 71 ORIF plus arthroscopy) with an average age of 40 years. The average follow-up was 32.4 months with a survey follow-up rate of 50.7% (110/213). Results: The average tourniquet time for the arthroscopy cohort was 10 minutes longer (89 minutes vs 79 minutes). During the arthroscopy, there was a 28% (20/71) rate of full-thickness osteochondral lesions, 33% (24/71) rate of loose bodies, and a 49% (35/71) rate of partial-thickness cartilage injury. The mean Patient Reported Outcome Information System (PROMIS) physical function score among Weber B fibula fractures was 45.8 and 42.3 in the arthroscopy and nonarthroscopy groups, respectively ( P = .012). In addition, the patient satisfaction rate in Weber B fibula fractures was higher in those patients who underwent arthroscopy compared with ORIF alone (93% vs 75%, P = .05). Patients who had a tibiotalar joint dislocation at the time of the ankle fracture had a significantly higher PROMIS physical function score (46.6 vs 40.2, P = .005) when their surgery included arthroscopy. Conclusion: Ankle arthroscopy at the time of ORIF led to statistically significant improvements in patient-reported outcomes for Weber B fibula fractures and ankle dislocations. There was no increase in complication rates and the arthroscopy took 10 minutes longer on average. Level of Evidence: Level III, retrospective cohort study.

Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) are a measure of health care quality that reflect the patient’s perceptions of their own health status. Recently, there has been a renewed interest in implementation of PROs into everyday clinical practice. There are many dozens of PROs available to foot and ankle surgeons with little consensus on which measures are most appropriate for a given condition. These measures vary widely in length, validity, and content. When integrating PROs into clinical practice, we recommend that clinicians should collect, at a minimum, validated PRO scores that assess pain, function, and general health. Furthermore, concise instruments should be used wherever possible to minimize patient burden, maximize patient engagement, and ensure meaningful data are collected. In the near future, outcomes registries employing computer adaptive testing will facilitate the routine collection of PRO data from all patients. Level of Evidence: Level V, expert opinion.