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Purpose: This systematic review aimed to identify the available evidence regarding the comparative effectiveness and safety of various operative treatments in adult patients with osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLT)., Materials and Methods: The PubMed, Embase, ISI Web of Knowledge, and the Cochrane Controlled Trial Register of Controlled Trials were searched from their inception date to September 2019. Two reviewers selected the randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and non-RCTs assessing the comparative effectiveness and safety of various operative treatments for OLT. The meta-analysis was performed using Revman 5.3., Results: Eight studies (1 RCT and 7 non-RCTs) with 375 patients were included in this review. The difference in the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score between the cartilage repair and replacement was not significant. The cartilage regeneration with or without cartilage repair had significant superiority in improving the AOFAS score compared with the cartilage repair. The difference in the magnetic resonance observation of cartilage repair tissue score between the cartilage repair and replacement and between cartilage repair and cartilage repair plus regeneration was significant., Conclusions: Cartilage regeneration and cartilage repair plus regeneration had significant superiority in improving the ankle function and radiological evaluation of OLT, although the trials included did not have high-level evidence. Moreover, which treatment between the 2 was safer could not be addressed in this review as most of the trials did not report the safety outcome. Further studies are needed to define the best surgical option for treating OLT., Competing Interests: The authors have no conflicts of interest to disclose., (Copyright © 2021 the Author(s). Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.)

Competing Interests: Competing interests: None declared.

Freiberg disease is characterized as osteochondrosis of the second metatarsal head. It is the fourth most common form of primary osteochondrosis with a significant predilection to the adolescent athletic female population, although it has been seen over a wide age range. If treated early, osteochondroses such as Freiberg disease are essentially self-limiting, often resolving with nonoperative management. When surgery is warranted, it is imperative the patient's age, activity level, and degree of articular deformity be taken into account., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Chronic musculoskeletal pain (CMP) is one of the main reasons for referral to a pediatric rheumatologist and is the third most common cause of chronic pain in children and adolescents. Causes of CMP include amplified musculoskeletal pain, benign limb pain of childhood, hypermobility, overuse syndromes, and back pain. CMP can negatively affect physical, social, academic, and psychological function so it is essential that clinicians know how to diagnose and treat these conditions. This article provides an overview of the epidemiology and impact of CMP, the steps in a comprehensive pain assessment, and the management of the most common CMPs., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background and purpose - The frequency of progression of osteoarthritis and persistence of symptoms in untreated osteochondral lesion of the talus (OCL) is not well known. We report the outcome of a nonoperative treatment for symptomatic OCL. Patients and methods - This study included 142 patients with OCLs from 2003 to 2013. The patients did not undergo immobilization and had no restrictions of physical activities. The mean follow-up time was 6 (3-10) years. Initial MRI and CT confirmed OCL and showed lesion size, location, and stage of the lesion. Progression of osteoarthritis was evaluated by standing radiographs. In 83 patients, CT was performed at the final follow-up for analyses of the lesion size. We surveyed patients for limitations of sports activity, and Visual Analogue Scales (VAS), AOFAS, and SF-36 were assessed. Results - No patients had progression of osteoarthritis. The lesion size as determined by CT did not change in 69/83 patients, decreased in 5, and increased in 9. The mean VAS score of the 142 patients decreased from 3.8 to 0.9 (p < 0.001), the mean AOFAS ankle-hindfoot score increased from 86 to 93 (p < 0.001), and the mean SF-36 score increased from 52 to 72 (p < 0.001). Only 9 patients reported limitations of sports activity. The size and location of the lesion did not correlate with any of the outcome scores. Interpretation - Nonoperative treatment can be considered a good option for patients with OCL.

Background: The aim of the study was to investigate parameters influencing the preoperative pain intensity in patients with osteochondral lesions of the ankle. The evaluation covered patient-related parameters such as age, sex, body mass index (BMI), as well as defect-related parameters, such as localisation, size and stage (according to the classification of the International Cartilage Repair Society [ICRS] and the Berndt-Harty-Loomer classification). We also examined the correlation between the different surgical techniques and additional factors, such as debridement of an impingement or stabilisation of the ankle on the one hand, and the preoperative pain intensity on the other., Material and Methods: 259 patients with osteochondral lesions of the ankle were operated in 32 clinical centres between October 2014 and December 2016 and enrolled consecutively in the German Cartilage Registry (KnorpelRegister DGOU). 151 patients were available for analysis. The preoperative pain intensity was assessed at the time of surgery with online questionnaires, using the Numeric Rating Scale for pain (NRS)., Results: The median preoperative pain intensity in the complete study population (n = 151) was 3 (range 0 - 10). There was no correlation between the age and the preoperative pain intensity (ρ = - 0.06). Further, there was not detected a difference between the two genders according to the preoperative pain intensity (p = 0.31). In female patients a higher BMI correlated with a higher preoperative pain intensity (ρ = 0.16). Within the group of patients with a solitary treated talus lesion there was no difference according to the preoperative pain intensity between the different localizations of the defect (medial vs. lateral talus) (p = 0.82). Within the group of patients with a solitary treated talus or tibia lesion there was no correlation between the defective area or the lesion stage according to the ICRS classification on the one hand, and the preoperative pain intensity on the other (ρ = 0.09, and ρ = 0.04, respectively). According to the Berndt-Harty-Loomer classification a higher lesion stage (stage four and five) was associated with a higher preoperative pain intensity (ρ = 0.13). There was no difference according to the preoperative pain intensity between the group of patients that received a debridement of a bony or soft tissue impingement in addition to the cartilage therapy and the group of patients without this kind of additional therapy (p = 0.10). Further, there was no difference according to the preoperative pain intensity between the group of patients that received a stabilisation of the ankle joint in addition to the cartilage therapy and the group of patients without a stabilisation procedure (p = 0.83)., Conclusion: Osteochondral lesions of the ankle can be associated with a moderate and in some cases high pain intensity. In female patients a higher BMI is associated with a higher pain intensity. Further, a higher lesion stage according to the Berndt-Harty-Loomer classification is associated with a higher pain intensity, which highlights the clinical relevance of this classification., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflict of interest./Die Autoren geben an, dass kein Interessenkonflikt besteht., (Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.)

Background: Vitamin D deficiency affects over 1 billion people worldwide and is common in foot and ankle patients. The prevalence in those with osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLTs) is unknown. This study identified the prevalence and risk factors for hypovitaminosis D in patients with an OLT., Methods: Serum 25(OH)D levels were obtained from patients presenting with an OLT from May to November during 2007 to 2016. Hypovitaminosis D was defined as 25(OH)D less than 30 ng/mL (75 nmol/L). Patients presenting with an acute ankle sprain (AS) during the same months served as a control group. Specific medical risk factors for hypovitaminosis D were recorded. The final OLT population included 46 patients (31 women [67.4%]; mean [SD] age 43.6 [14.8] years). The comparison AS group had 40 patients (32 women [80.0%]; mean [SD] age 56.2 [13.0] years)., Results: The mean (SD) 25(OH)D in the OLT and AS cohorts were 31.2 (12.6) ng/mL and 37.1 (13.5) ng/mL, respectively ( P = .039). Hypovitaminosis D was identified in 54% of the OLT population and 28% of the AS population ( P = .012)., Conclusion: Hypovitaminosis D is intimately related to decreased bone mineral density. This study identified a significantly higher rate of hypovitaminosis D in patients with an OLT compared to a cohort of AS patients. These findings suggest that when patients present with an OLT, health care providers should consider evaluating for and treating hypovitaminosis D., Level of Evidence: Level III, comparative study.

Osteoblastoma is a rare benign bone tumor occurring in adults younger than 30 years, with a clear predominance in men. It mainly occurs at the level of the spine and of the diaphysis in long bones. It occurs exceptionally in the ankle. We here report the case of an adult patient with osteoblastoma of the left ankle revealed by localized pain and partial functional disability. Standard radiographic evaluation was normal. Given the persistence of complaints CT scan was performed, but findings resulted in a misdiagnosis of osteochondritis. Anatomo-pathological examination of the surgical specimen allowed to adjust the diagnosis. Patient' s outcome was simple with very satisfactory functional result. Our case study is important due to the uncommon age of occurrence of the disease (patient older than 30 years) and to its unusual location at the level of the ankle. Even if aggressive forms have been reported in the literature, the prognosis of osteoblastoma is good and recurrences can be avoided by adequate surgical treatment.

Kienböck's disease is characterised by avascular necrosis of the lunate bone, and over the years it has been a challenging disease to manage, with differing opinions on the best intervention. We present an interesting case of a metallic unconstrained lunate replacement that is still functioning well in a patient 40 years after surgery. This case report represents the longest follow-up of any such prosthesis., Competing Interests: Competing interests: None declared., (© BMJ Publishing Group Ltd (unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2018. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.)

Freiberg's infarction is a well-known condition that most commonly effects the second metatarsophalangeal joint. The etiology of Freiberg's infarction is not entirely clear and there is no consensus on treatment. The case report presents a patient successfully treated with a metatarsal shortening osteotomy, marrow stimulation, and micronized allograft cartilage matrix. This is to my knowledge the first reported case using the described technique for Freiberg's infarction., Levels of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level V: Expert opinion.

Osteochondral fractures of the ankle are typically caused by traumatic injuries of the ankle. Repetitive trauma can lead to further cartilage damage with subsequent increasing size of the lesion, ultimately leading to severe cartilage disorder and degenerative arthritis of the ankle. Arthroscopic bone marrow stimulation has been shown to be a highly successful option for patients with small osteochondral lesions. Studies show a higher failure rate for larger lesions and cystic changes that disrupt the subchondral plate. The threshold size seems to be 150 mm(2)., (Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Osteochondritis ischiopubica or van Neck-Odelberg disease is characterized by atypical ossification of the ischiopubic synchondrosis. Clinical symptoms are usually pain, limping and limited range of motion of the hip joint. Radiologic images may be confused with the possibility of fracture, tumor or inflammation. In some cases it may be difficult to set up the accurate diagnosis, and during the diagnostic process it is essential that van Neck-Odelberg disease should be considered. In this paper the authors draw attention to this rare disorder and they present the history of two patients who posed diagnostic difficulties.

Background: Weil osteotomy is a type of distal osteotomy for the treatment of lesser metatarsalgia by shortening the metatarsal length. We applied Weil and dorsal closing wedge osteotomy for the treatment of Freiberg's disease., Methods: Between September 1, 2006, and December 31, 2011, we performed Weil and dorsal closing wedge osteotomy of the second metatarsal in 15 feet of 15 patients (12 women, three men) diagnosed as having Freiberg's disease. The mean patient age was 29 years (range, 19-51 years), and mean follow-up was 47 months (range, 36-72 months). Postoperative shortening of the metatarsal length was measured by comparing preoperative and postoperative radiographs. Visual analog scale scores, American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society lesser metatarsophalangeal-interphalangeal scores, and the passive range of motion of the metatarsophalangeal joint were evaluated at 24 months., Results: The mean postoperative shortening of the metatarsal length was 3.2 mm. The mean visual analog scale and American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society scores were 7.2 and 52.4 points preoperatively and 2.1 and 78.2 points at 24 months, respectively (P < .05). The mean range of motion of the metatarsophalangeal joint increased from 29.4° preoperatively to 46.5° postoperatively (P < .05). Various degrees of remodeling were observed at the dorsum of the metatarsal head at 24 months., Conclusions: Weil and dorsal closing wedge osteotomy of the metatarsal seems to be effective for treating Freiberg's disease. It improves pain and function in terms of shortening the metatarsal length and restoring the metatarsophalangeal joint.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and common location of a coexisting osteochondral lesion of the distal tibia and fibula and of associated abnormalities of the ankle ligaments and tendons on MRI in patients with an osteochondral lesion of the talus (OLT)., Materials and Methods: A search of a database of MRI studies performed between July 2003 and January 2014 yielded MRI examinations of 297 feet with OLTs. Two readers reviewed the MRI examinations independently for the presence of an osteochondral lesion of the distal tibia and fibula and for concomitant ligament and tendon injuries. If an osteochondral lesion of the distal tibia and fibula was present, the reviewers also recorded the location (zones 1-10) and stage. Interobserver and intraobserver reliabilities were assessed using kappa statistics. The associations between a coexisting osteochondral lesion of the distal tibia and fibula and an OLT or a concomitant ankle injury were evaluated using the chi-square test., Results: Readers A and B identified 61 (20.5%) and 47 (15.8%) coexisting osteochondral lesions of the distal tibia and fibula, respectively, with good interobserver (κ = 0.73) and excellent intraobserver (κ = 0.97) reliabilities. The most common location of a coexisting osteochondral lesion of the distal tibia and fibula was zone 4 (29.5%) by reader A and zone 2 (21.3%) by reader B. Stage I and stage IIA were common (> 85%). The frequency of osteochondral lesions of the distal tibia and fibula was not significantly different according to the location or stage of OLT. Abnormalities in the tibialis posterior tendon and in the anterior and posterior talofibular, calcaneofibular, and deltoid ligaments were significantly more common in patients with a coexisting osteochondral lesion of the distal tibia and fibula than in those with an isolated OLT (p < 0.05)., Conclusion: A coexisting osteochondral lesion of the distal tibia and fibula is not rare on MRI in patients with an OLT and is related to a higher frequency of concomitant ankle ligament and tendon injuries.

Unlabelled: A 32-year-old male recreational athlete presented with activity-related chronic dorsal midfoot pain. Conservative treatment, including a prolonged period of immobilization, physical therapy, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and use of a bone stimulator, failed to resolve his symptoms. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a cystic appearing focus within the navicular in conjunction with a osteochondral lesion within the proximal articular surface of the navicular. This case report presents an arthroscopically assisted treatment of a navicular osteochondral lesion using curettage and backfilling with fibrin glue, flowable collagen, and autogenous bone grafting., Levels of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level IV., (© 2014 The Author(s).)

Objective: To identify any association between the pain experienced as a result of calcaneal apophysitis, anthropometric data, and lower limb measurements., Study Design: This study was a cross-sectional study, nested within a wider randomized, comparative efficacy trial. One hundred twenty-four children between the ages of 8 and 14 years with a clinical diagnosis of calcaneal apophysitis were recruited for this study. Of the participating children, 72 were male. The measures recorded were height, weight, waist circumference, body mass index, foot posture, and ankle joint range of motion; comparison with normative values was also completed. Univariate and multivariable regression analyses were undertaken to identify factors associated with the severity of pain experienced (visual analog scale)., Results: The children within this study had a higher mean body mass index (P < .001), increased weight (P < .001), and were taller (P < .001) compared with normative values. The children also demonstrated differences in foot posture and ankle joint range of motion. Multivariable regression analyses identified that older participants (P = .046) and those who had experienced pain for longer (P = .043) reported higher pain severity., Conclusions: Children presenting with calcaneal apophysitis were anthropometrically different from their peers and had experienced a lengthy period of pain. Therefore, early management focussing on the anthropometric differences may minimize the intensity and duration of pain experienced., Trial Registration: Registered with Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry: ACTRN12609000696291., (Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Osteonecrosis of the second metatarsal head is often attributed to Freiberg's disease. We describe the case of a 27-year-old Taiwanese male soldier with persistent painful disability of the right forefoot of 9 months' duration, but no history of trauma. A series of radiographs suggested the diagnosis of late-stage Freiberg's disease. The lesion was treated with interpositional arthroplasty using a palmaris longus tendon graft, in a modification of the traditional interpositional arthroplastic technique for treating Freiberg's disease. After 2 years of follow-up examinations, the patient was satisfied with the clinical outcome, despite having a limited range of motion of the right second metatarsophalangeal joint relative to the adjacent toes. The patient returned to his army group with functional activity that was better than he had experienced before surgery. We believe this modified interpositional arthroplastic treatment strategy will provide more symptom relief and satisfactory functionality for the treatment of late-stage Freiberg's disease., (Copyright © 2015 American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

A 17-year-old boy reported left second and third toe pain after axial loading injury to his left foot. Radiographs showed collapse of the second metatarsal heads and epiphysial irregularities of the fifth metatarsal heads and the condyle of the proximal phalanx of the hallux of both feet. The patient was diagnosed to have Thompson and Hamilton type IV Freiberg's disease. He was screened for epiphysial dysplasia of the other sites. He had on and off bilateral hip and knee pain. Radiographs showed bilateral symmetrical epiphysial abnormalities with morphological change as focal concavity in bilateral femoral heads and fragmentation of the patellar articular surface with preservation of the patellofemoral joint space., (2015 BMJ Publishing Group Ltd.)

The identification of chromosomal breakpoints in association with human abnormal phenotypes can enable elucidation of gene function. We report on epiphyseal aseptic necrosis of the lesser head of the second metatarsal bone, known as Freiberg's infraction (FI), in two female carriers of the apparently balanced t(5;7)(p13.3;p22.2) ascertained by a 16-year-old girl with cri-du-chat syndrome and unusual skeletal features in association with an unbalanced translocation der(5) t(5;7)(p13.3;p22.2). Mapping of the chromosome breakpoints using fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) narrowed them to the coding sequence of ADAMTS12 on chromosome 5p13.3 and SDK1 on 7p22.2. In addition, several skeletal abnormalities classified as brachydactyly type A1B (BDA1B) were present in the proband and in both carriers of t(5;7)(p13.3;p22.2), suggesting a potential role of ADAMTS12 in the development of the BDA1B observed in this family.

There are multiple causes of pediatric foot and ankle pain. Although conservative measures are appropriate for initial management, patients with refractory pain should be given consideration for further intervention. This review highlights some of the most common causes of foot and ankle pain in the child, with specific attention to demographics, etiologies, diagnostic workup, and treatment options., (Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

In this report, an osteochondral lesion of the tarsal navicular associated with a subacute stress fracture in a professional basketball player surgical treatment is presented. The surgical technique involved extra-articular curettage, bone grafting and plate stabilisation. Postoperative CT scan confirmed that both the osteochondral lesion and the stress fracture healed. The talonavicular joint showed no signs of arthritis on imaging. Clinical foot scores showed marked improvement after surgery. At 6 months patient managed to return to competitive play without pain in the foot and ankle. The outcome of this case indicates that the combination of curettage, bone grating and plate stabilisation works well for this rare and potentially career ending dual lesions., (Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Osteochondral lesions of the femoral head are uncommon and few studies have reported their imaging findings. Since joints are at risk of early degeneration after osteochondral damage, timely recognition is important. Osteochondral lesions of femoral head may often be necessary to differentiate from avascular necrosis. Here, we report a case of osteochondral lesions on bilateral femoral heads. This lesion manifested as subchondral cysts in initial radiographs, which led to further evaluation by computed tomography arthrography and magnetic resonance imaging, which revealed overlying cartilage defects.

Osteochondral lesions are acquired, potentially reversible injuries of the subchondral bone with or without associated articular cartilage involvement. Injury results in delamination and potential sequestration of the affected bone. Although an association with mechanical and traumatic factors has been established, the etiology remains poorly understood. These lesions commonly occur in the knee; articular surfaces of the elbow, ankle, hip, and shoulder are also affected. Osteochondral lesions are relatively common in children and adolescents, and the incidence is increasing. Prognosis of these lesions depends on stability, location, and size of the lesion.Imaging has an essential role in the diagnosis, staging, and management of osteochondral lesions. Many of these lesions are first diagnosed by plain film. MRI adds value by identifying unstable lesions that require surgical intervention. This review focuses on the clinical and imaging features of osteochondral lesions of the knee, elbow, and ankle. Imaging criteria for staging and management are also reviewed., (Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.)

Unlabelled: Osteochondral lesions of the talar dome are increasingly diagnosed and are a difficult pathology to treat. Conservative treatment yields best results in pediatric patients, often leaving surgical options for adult populations. There is a paucity of long-term data and comparisons of treatment options. Arthroscopic bone marrow stimulation is a common first-line treatment for smaller lesions. Despite promising short to medium term clinical results, bone marrow stimulation results in fibrocartilagenous tissue that incurs differing mechanical and biological properties compared with normal cartilage. Autologous osteochondral transplantation has demonstrated promising clinical results in the short to medium term for larger, cystic lesions and can restore the contact pressure of the joint. However, concerns remain over postoperative cyst formation and donor site morbidity. Recent developments have emphasized the usefulness of biological adjuncts such as platelet-rich plasma and concentrated bone marrow aspirate, as well as particulate juvenile cartilage, in augmenting reparative and replacement strategies in osteochondral lesion treatment. The purpose of this article is to review diagnosis and treatment of talar osteochondral lesions so that current practice guidelines can be more efficiently used given the available treatment strategies. A treatment paradigm based on current evidence is described., Levels of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level V, Expert Opinion., (© 2014 The Author(s).)

Introduction: This case describes a case of an osteochondral lesion in the femoral head and its treatment by partial resurfacing of the femoral head using the HemiCAP (Contoured Articular Prosthetic) hip resurfacing system., Case History: A 19-year-old patient who complained of 15 months of worsening left hip pain. X-rays and MR scan revealed a large osteochondral lesion., Surgery: A Ganz approach to the hip in the lateral position was used. The osteochondral lesion was identified, lying superiorly and centrally on the head, in the weight bearing zone. The osteochondral fragment was removed and HemiCAP prosthesis applied., Outcome: At six-year follow-up the patient remains pain free clinically. And radiographic follow-up shows no evidence of loosening., Conclusion: There are multiple methods of treatment described in the literature for osteochondral lesions; but treatments for defects of the femoral head are few. We conclude that partial hip resurfacing using the HemiCAP prosthesis is an effective treatment for osteochondral defects of the femoral head.

Osteochondral lesions of the elbow are injuries that disrupt the cartilage and subjacent bone, and they most commonly involve the capitellum. The staging, prognosis, and treatment of osteochondral lesions in the elbow are based on a combination of radiographic, magnetic resonance imaging, and arthroscopic findings. Radiographic staging includes the radiolucent, separation, and free (advanced) stages. MR imaging features of instability include cysts, osteochondral fracture, T2 hyperintense rim, subchondral plate defects, and fluid-filled osteochondral defects. Finally, arthroscopic grading of osteochondral lesions increases in severity based on findings of softened cartilage, cartilage fissuring, exposed bone, loose but nondisplaced fragments, and eventually displaced fragments resulting in intra-articular bodies. This pictorial review focuses on osteochondral lesions in the capitellum and trochlea including osteochondritis dissecans, Panner disease, and acute trauma., (Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.)

Dieterich disease is an uncommon arthropathy of the hand, with few studies published. This lesion shares a similar etiopathogenesis with Freiberg disease, although the association of both conditions has only been described once. We report a 65-year-old man consulting for inflammatory pain in his right hand of 1 month's duration and also in his right foot of 4 months' duration. The rheumatology department was consulted to rule out systemic disease because the synovitis had occurred simultaneously in 2 different locations. The plain radiography and magnetic resonance imaging findings supported the diagnosis of Dieterich disease and Freiberg disease, although only increased uptake was found on scintigraphy in the affected zones. Few studies have been published about Dieterich disease, most in case report form. To our knowledge, only 1 study has described the association of Dieterich disease and Freiberg disease. Surgical treatment has been described when conservative management is unsuccessful, with multiple techniques used. The present case is the first in which Dieterich disease and Freiberg disease manifested simultaneously in the initial painful inflammatory phase., (Copyright © 2013 American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Of all the osteochondrosis, Freiberg's disease is reported to be the fourth most common, exceeded by Köhler's disease, Panner's disease, and Sever's disease. This disease usually occurs in the 2nd metatarsal head and relatively in the 3rd and 4th metatarsal heads., Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcome of debridement, synovectomy, dorsal closing wedge osteotomy and pin fixation for Freiberg's disease treatment., Methods: Ten female patients, mean age 18.3 years; (ranged 14-24 years) were treated by the above mentioned technique. The main presenting symptom was pain on walking or sport; affected their daily life and activities and was not improved by non-surgical treatment. The second metatarsal head was affected in all patients. Halve of patients had a history of trauma. According to Smillie's classification, four patients were type V and six patients were type IV. Mean follow-up period was 19.2 months (range 6-36 months)., Results: Were assessed by the Lesser Metatarsophalangeal-Interphalangeal (LMPI)Scale by Kitaoka et al. At the final follow up, scoring was changed from (44-76) with an average 57 to (66-100) with an average 80. There was no case of infection, avascular necrosis, arthritis or pseudoarthrosis., Conclusion: We founded that dorsiflexion osteotomy of the metatarsal head is presented as a logical procedure that is simple, reliable, not destructive, and capable of good results regardless of the stage of the disease., (Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Epiphyseal osteochondritis is a localized disorder in childhood. Vascular insufficiency is thought to be the most significant etiologic factor. This study had been carried on Primary and Preparatory school children in Zagazig City and surrounding villages in Sharkia Governorate, Egypt. Total number of studied children were 16,060, 7,380 males, 8,680 females. The mean age was 11.41 ± 1.99. Our results showed that the prevalence of osteochondritis was 21:10,000. Distribution of Sever's and Osgood-Shlatter diseases were significantly high compared with other osteochondritis. Regarding the sex distribution, osteochondritis was frequent in males. Our results showed that there was history of trauma especially in Sever's and Osgood-Schlatter diseases.

Reasons for Performing Study: The metacarpo/metatarsophalangeal (MCP/MTP) joint is a common site of lameness in the Thoroughbred racehorse. Radiographs may fail to show pathology consistent with the degree of lameness. With a high incidence of stress fractures occurring in the distal third metacarpal/metatarsal (MC3/MT3) condyles and proximal phalanx, a definitive diagnosis as to the nature of the pathology is essential., Objective: To describe the low-field magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings in Thoroughbred racehorses with MCP/MTP joint pain scanned under standing sedation., Methods: The MR images and clinical records of all Thoroughbred racehorses undergoing MRI of the MCP/MTP joint between October 2006 and August 2010 were reviewed. A total of 168 joints from 131 horses were selected for inclusion. The MRI finding considered most significant in the lame (or lamest) limb was noted., Results: Diagnostic quality images were obtainable in 97.8% of horses. The most common finding was palmar/plantar osteochondral disease in MC3/MT3 (54.9% of horses). Incomplete condylar fracture was diagnosed in 19.8% of horses, with the lateral condyle predominating. An incomplete sagittal fracure of P1 was diagnosed in 14.5% of horses and 11.4% were diagnosed with 'dorsal joint disease'. Other findings included transverse MC3 stress fractures (1.5%), soft tissue injuries (12.2%) and proximal phalangeal 'contusions' (3.8%). No significant bone/soft tissue injury was detected in 5.4% of cases., Conclusions: Standing MRI can detect a spectrum of disease within the MCP/MTP joints of racehorses. The procedure is well tolerated and may lead to a definitive diagnosis where radiographic imaging is inconclusive., Potential Relevance: A total of 35.8% of cases had MRI findings consistent with fracture pathology, which could not be confirmed radiographically at the time of the MRI examination. This has important therapeutic and prognostic implications and may help to prevent catastrophic injury., (© 2011 EVJ Ltd.)

Freiberg’s disease is a relatively uncommon disorder of the metatarsal head. Although trauma and circulatory disturbances likely contribute major roles in its development, it is widely accepted that Freiberg’s etiology is multifactorial. Conservative treatment, focused on offloading and relieving stress, is uniformly accepted as the appropriate initial management. Surgical management can broadly be categorized as procedures which attempt to correct the pathophysiology and halt its progression, and procedures which address the sequelae of later stage disease. Newer strategies, including osteochondral transplantation, attempt to restore the damage metatarsal cartilage with a viable osteochondral plug.

Although the disease was first described in the hip, reports of chondrolysis in nearly all diarthrodial joints have since emerged with considerable variations in the literature.Despite speculation among clinicians and researchers about the implicit causal pathways and etiologic contributors associated with chondrolysis, definitive answers remain elusive.The term chondrolysis has been applied to varied levels of joint cartilage destruction from focal chondral defects to diffuse cartilage loss, revealing a lack of consistency in the application of diagnostic criteria to guide differential disease classification.Differentiating between the various potential etiologies associated with chondrolysis provides opportunities for the prevention of the disease.

Osteochondral lesions of the wrist are rare in the pediatric and adolescent population. We report a case of an osteochondral lesion of the lunate facet of the radiocarpal joint in a 6-year-old girl with chronic wrist pain after falling on her hand. Arthroscopic debridement of the osteochondral fragment relieved the symptoms and improved wrist function. Osteochondral lesions should be considered in the differential diagnosis of chronic wrist pain in children with a history of trauma., (Copyright © 2011 American Society for Surgery of the Hand. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Arthroscopic treatment of osteochondral lesions (OCLs) of the ankle is a popular first-line surgical option after conservative therapy has failed. MRI is the preferred imaging modality to evaluate OCLs and aid in surgical planning. Associated soft tissue pathology must be appreciated and addressed surgically, because associated synovitis and soft tissue impingement often contribute to symptoms. The diverse treatment modalities available via arthroscopy offer simplistic and straightforward solutions for biologically and mechanically complicated pathology. Marrow-stimulating techniques, particularly microfracture, have shown good to excellent results in most patients with small (<15 mm) acute lesions, and have a low complication rate., (Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Pain is the key symptom of patients suffering from osteochondral lesions (OCLs) of the ankle joint. Routine radiographic imaging methods for diagnosis and staging of OCL fail to visualize the pain-inducing focus within the joint. SPECT-CT (Single-photon emission computed tomography-computed tomography) is a new hybrid imaging technique allowing exact digital fusion of scintigraphic and computer tomographic images. This allows precise localization and size determination of an OCL within the joint. Using this novel imaging method, we conducted a study to evaluate the correlation between pathological uptake within an OCL and pain experienced by patients suffering from this condition; 15 patients were assessed in the orthopaedic ambulatory clinic for unilateral OCL of the ankle joint. Pain status was measured with the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). A SPECT-CT was performed. All patients underwent CT-guided ankle injection with a local anesthetic and iodine contrast medium. The VAS score assessed immediately postinfiltration was compared with the preinterventional VAS score obtained in the outpatient clinic. Pain relief was defined as a reduction of the VAS score to ≤50% of the preinterventional score, if expected immediately after infiltration. Pain relief was found in all 15 patients. The results of our study show that there is a highly significant correlation between pain and pathological uptake seen on SPECT-CT, indicating that pathologically remodeled bone tissue is an important contributor to pain in OCL. Adequate addressing of involved bone tissue needs to be taken into consideration when choosing a surgical treatment method., (Copyright © 2011 The Author(s))

Background: Sever's disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is thought to be an inflammation of the apophysis of the heel, which is open in childhood. This condition has been commented on and looked at in a retrospective manner but has not been examined systematically. We assembled the most commonly cited theoretical causative models identified from the literature and tested them to determine whether any were risk factors., Methods: Children with Sever's disease were compared with a similarly aged nonsymptomatic population to determine whether identifiable risk factors exist for the onset of Sever's disease. Areas raised in the literature and, hence, compared were biomechanical foot malalignment, as measured by Root et al-type foot measurements and the Foot Posture Index; ankle joint dorsiflexion, measured with a modified apparatus; body mass index; and total activity and types of sport played., Results: Statistically significant but small odds ratios were found in forefoot to rearfoot determination and left ankle joint dorsiflexion., Conclusions: This study suggests that there is no evidence to support that weight and activity levels are risk factors for Sever's disease. The statistically significant but clinically negligible odds ratio (0.93) on the left side for decreased ankle joint dorsiflexion and statistically significant and clinically stronger odds ratio bilaterally for forefoot to rearfoot malalignment suggest that biomechanical malalignment is an area for further investigation.

Objective: The objective of this article is to present a comprehensive review of apophysitis of the lower limb regarding anatomy, physiopathology, clinical findings, differential diagnosis, and imaging features with special emphasis on MRI., Conclusion: Apophysitis, which is inflammation of the traction epiphysis resulting from chronic trauma, is a common abnormality that affects the growing child. Understanding the physiopathology of apophysitis is essential for a precise diagnosis on MRI. Accurate identification of key MRI features of this entity may prevent misdiagnosis and inappropriate management of apophysitis.

Objective: To determine the accuracy of ultrasonography (US) in the evaluation of degenerative changes in the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ)., Methods and Materials: Ten cadaveric specimens were obtained. US evaluation of cartilage degeneration and thickness was performed by two independent and blinded readers (R1 and R2). Gross anatomy and MR arthrography evaluated by two readers in consensus served as the reference standard. The joint surface not accessible to US was measured., Results: US interreader agreement was non-existent for cartilage thickness measurements and moderate for cartilage degeneration grading (weighted kappa = 0.41). Comparing US and MR imaging evaluation, there was no correlation between US R1 and MR imaging (Pearson correlation coefficient [PCC] = 0.352) and a moderate correlation between US R2 and MR imaging (PCC = 0.570) concerning cartilage thickness measurements. Concerning cartilage degeneration grading, there was a moderate to strong (R1 Spearman correlation coefficient [SCC] = 0.729)/R2 SCC = 0.767) correlation concerning cartilage degeneration grading. Comparing US and gross anatomic evaluation, there was no correlation for US R1 (PCC = 0.220) and a strong correlation for US R2 (PCC = 0.922) concerning cartilage thickness measurements, and a strong to moderate correlation (R1 SCC = 0.808/R2 SCC = 0.597) concerning cartilage degeneration grading. The mean sector of the articular surface of the ulna head not accessible to US was 13°., Conclusion: In conclusion the DRUJ is accessible to US except in the central 13° sector of the joint surface. US was approved to be sufficient in demonstrating advanced stages of cartilage degeneration. Thus, US of the DRUJ is recommended in patients suffering from ulnar-sided wrist pain., (Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.)

During the epidemiological survey of the military men of the Republic of Karelia with the pre-existing initial manifestations of cerebral circulation insufficiency were established it's main etiological reasons (somatoform autonomic dysfunction--35.2%, cervical osteochondrosis--34.3%) and risk factors (hereditary tainted cardiovascular event, north climate, stress, social habits, peculiarities of military service). Clinical characteristic of labile cerebrastenic syndrome and its peculiarities in compliance with etiological reasons of disease in the presence of autonomic disorders of suprasegmentary character and absence of significant nidal marks in neurological status was given. Complex program for expert diagnosis of the pre-existing initial manifestations of cerebral circulation insufficiency and methods of its propaganda (school, questionary, jotting) were developed and introduced into the practice of neurologist.

Background: Large osteochondral defects of the weight-bearing zones of the femoral condyles in young and active patients were treated by autologous transfer of the posterior femoral condyle. This technique is a salvage procedure and aims at pain-free mobility of patients., Material and Methods: Between July 1999 and December 2000, 18 patients were operated on. Sixteen patients were evaluated using the Lysholm score. X-rays were done, and eight individuals underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) analysis. The average age at the date of surgery was 37.4 (15-59) years, and the mean follow-up time was 55.2 (46-62) months. The mean defect size was 5.4 cm(2) (3.1-7.1). Trauma or osteochondrosis dissecans was pathogenetic in 81%., Results: The Lysholm score showed a significant (p=0.001) increase from a preoperative median of 65.0 to a postoperative median of 86.0 points. Fifteen patients returned to sport activities. X-rays showed a rounding of the osteotomy edge in 12 patients and a partial bone-dense remodelling of the posterior femoral condyle in 11 patients. All MRI examinations showed vital and congruent grafts., Conclusion: Thus, the procedure is recommended for treating large and deep focal osteochondral lesions in the weight-bearing zone of the femoral condyle.

Objective: In contrast to posterior tibial tendon lesions, dislocations of the posterior tibial tendon are thought to be 'extremely rare'. Diagnostic criteria for this condition have not yet been established., Methods: A systematic literature review revealed 61 published cases with posterior tibial tendon dislocation in 36 reports, including eight (12 patients) in French and five (7 patients) in German. We add one more case, which was complicated by a longitudinal tibial tendon tear and a lateral talar dome osteochondral lesion. Fifty-nine cases were descriptively analysed regarding initial injury, subjective symptoms, clinical presentation and findings on different imaging modalities. Treatment and outcome were additionally evaluated., Results: 58.5% of the initial injuries were induced by sport. Initially most cases were misdiagnosed (53.1%). 35.6% of the patients felt a recurrent snapping phenomenon at the medial ankle. Physical examination exhibited a cord-like structure over the medial malleolus in 58.6%, and a posterior tibial tendon (sub)luxation could be provocated in 54.2%. MRI, ultrasound and plain radiography (medial malleolar chip fracture) detected specific findings in 75.0%, 66.7% and 14.7%, respectively. Surgery was done in 83.1% of the patients using varying techniques. The authors judged the treatment result as excellent or asymptomatic in 80%, as good in 12% and as fair or moderate in 8% of the patients., Conclusions: Posterior tibial tendon dislocation occurs more frequently than was previously thought. Misdiagnosis can be avoided, if the surgeon is aware of the condition and combines findings from history, physical investigation and imaging modalities.

Background: Osteoarthritis arising from cartilage degeneration is the most common cause of joint pain. However, the relationship between joint pain and cartilage degeneration is not well understood., Questions/purposes: We asked whether the inflammatory mediators participate in the joint pain in the presence of cartilage degeneration., Methods: We observed electromyographic responses of hindlimb flexors to four inflammatory mediators (bradykinin, ATP, acetylcholine, and serotonin) injected in normal rat knees and in those with monosodium iodoacetate (MIA)-induced arthritis., Results: Joint cartilage of all the rats with MIA-induced arthritis histologically showed severe degeneration. We observed greater magnitude and longer duration responses in the MIA-induced arthritis than normal joints with all four mediators., Conclusions: The data suggested nociceptors in osteoarthritic joints are more sensitive to inflammatory mediators than in normal joints. Such nociceptive sensitization to inflammatory mediators may participate in the joint pain in osteoarthritis.

A review of outcomes in 13 patients with talar dome osteochondral or chondral lesions treated with a bone graft substitute plug was undertaken in an effort to evaluate its effectiveness in comparison with other reported surgical techniques. Mean patient age was 36.4 (range 16 to 57) years. Mean follow-up was 30.1 (range 7 to 43) months. Medial malleolar osteotomy was performed in 9 (69.23%) cases. Average defect diameter was 9.8 (range 5 to 20) mm. Pain decreased significantly from 6.2 (range 3 to 9) to 4.0 (range 0 to 9) (P = .009). Postoperative American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society Ankle-Hindfoot scores averaged 67.3 (range 26 to 100). Younger age, smaller defect size, and avoidance of medial malleolar osteotomy resulted in better outcomes. Mean Short Form-36 scores for the study group fell below US norms in all categories, and 12 (92.31%) ankles demonstrated persistent lesions radiographically. Postoperative magnetic resonance imaging in 2 (15.39%) patients demonstrated enlarged lesions, and 4 (30.77%) patients underwent revision surgery that revealed abnormal cartilage around the implant site. Complications included 1 (7.69%) deep venous thrombosis, 1 (7.69%) arthrofibrosis, and 1 (7.69%) superficial neuritis. Despite some improvement in pain, comparison of functional outcome showed bone graft substitute plug implantation to be less effective overall than other operative interventions. Future investigations with more specific selection criteria are warranted to gain further insight into the efficacy of these bone graft substitute plugs., (Copyright 2010 American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Osteochondral lesions (OCLs) are rare joint disorders, typically found in the larger joints of the body and less so in smaller joints (J Bone Joint Surg Am 41-A:988-1020, 1959; Arthroscopy 6(3):190-197, 1990; Clin Orthop Relat Res 148:245-253, 1980). Although their specific cause is subject to frequent debate, they are often caused by trauma with subsequent compromise of the articular cartilage (Arthroscopy 6(3):190-197, 1990; J Bone Joint Surg Am 78(3):439-456, 1996). Symptoms are typically attributable to a mechanical defect, either of the bony defect or a flap of cartilage. The current case report describes an osteochondral lesion of the head of the fifth metatarsal which is a heretofore unreported location. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the lesion revealed a notable subchondral bone signal change, indicating a possible synovial fluid pressure phenomenon rather than a mechanical defect.