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Striano BM, Patel SS, Parker E, Vaughn JJ, Smith JT, Harris MB, Chiodo CP. The Use of the Lateral Tibial Line to Assess Ankle Alignment: A Preliminary Investigation. J Am Acad Orthop Surg 2024; 32:41-46. [PMID: 37580051 DOI: 10.5435/jaaos-d-23-00271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although the medial clear space (MCS) is commonly used to assess talar alignment and ankle stability, its measurement is variable with multiple reported normal values. We have observed that the lateral tibial shaft is a reliable landmark to assess talar alignment. The objective of the current investigation was to determine the normal relationship of the lateral tibia to the superolateral talus using a tangent drawn inferiorly from the lateral tibial shaft, which we refer to as the "lateral tibial line" (LTL). METHODS The relationship of the LTL to the superolateral talus was assessed by three reviewers on 99 standing ankle mortise radiographs in uninjured patients. This relationship was quantified by measuring the distance (in millimeters) between the LTL and the superolateral talus. In addition, the interobserver reliability of the LTL measurement was recorded and compared with that of the MCS. RESULTS The median value for the distance between the superolateral talus and LTL was -0.50 mm with an interquartile range of -1.4 to 0.0 mm. The LTL was within 1 mm of the lateral talus in 176 of 297 reviewer measurements (59.3%). Moreover, it was either lateral to or at most 1 mm medial to the lateral talus in 90.9% of cases. The LTL measurement also demonstrated good interobserver reliability (0.764, 95% confidence interval, 0.670 to 0.834), similar to the measurement of MCS (0.742, 95% confidence interval, 0.539 to 0.846). CONCLUSIONS The relationship between the LTL and superolateral talus is easily measured with good reliability for assessing the anatomic relationship of the tibia and talus. The LTL uncommonly fell more than 1 mm medial to the superolateral talus, as might be seen with displaced ankle fractures. These findings will hopefully serve as a basis for future studies evaluating its role in assessing lateral displacement and stability of isolated fibula fractures. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level III, retrospective review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brendan M Striano
- From Harvard Combined Orthopaedic Residency Program, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA (Striano), the Department of Orthopaedic Oncology, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX (Patel), the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA (Parker, Smith, and Chiodo), Maine Medical Center, Portland, ME (Vaughn), and the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA (Harris)
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2
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Tong J, Li H, Li H, Hua Y. Bone marrow edema at ligament insertion is an accurate MRI sign of deltoid ligament injury. Acta Radiol 2024; 65:91-98. [PMID: 37722764 DOI: 10.1177/02841851231197508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is effective in diagnosing deltoid ligament (DL) injury but its sensitivity in chronic cases is low. Additional diagnostic signs are required to reduce the risk of a false negative diagnosis. PURPOSE To evaluate the added diagnostic value of bone marrow edema at the ligament insertion (BMELI) of DL to the MRI assessment of chronic DL injury. MATERIAL AND METHODS One hundred patients who consecutively came to our institution between November 2018 and December 2021 and underwent arthroscopic surgery for chronic ankle instability (CAI) were enrolled in the present study. Preoperative MR images were retrospectively reviewed by two orthopedic surgeons to evaluate the sensitivity, specificity and interobserver reliability of three MRI signs in diagnosing chronic DL injury, namely, abnormal ligamentous morphological characteristics (ALMC), BMELI and medial clear space (MCS). RESULTS Taking arthroscopy as the reference standard, there were 34 patients with and 66 without DL injury. ALMC had 64.71% (22/34; 46.47-79.70) sensitivity and 83.33% (55/66; 71.71-91.00) specificity, BMELI had 70.59% (24/34; 52.33-84.29) sensitivity and 95.45% (63/66; 86.44-98.82) specificity and MCS had 26.47% (9/34; 13.51-44.65) sensitivity and 92.42% (61/66; 82.50-97.18) specificity. Compared with ALMC, BMELI had similar efficacy in superficial cases (P = 0.06) and greater efficacy in deep cases (P = 0.04). All three signs showed good interobserver agreement (kappa values all above 0.7). CONCLUSION BMELI can reliably indicate concomitant injury to the DL in CAI patients. Using BMELI as a sign of chronic DL injury when ALMC is unclear may reduce the risk of a false negative diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahui Tong
- Department of Sports Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong Li
- Department of Sports Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Hongyun Li
- Department of Sports Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Yinghui Hua
- Department of Sports Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai, China
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Stockwell E, Thomas P, Grossman L, Lyden E, Mormino M, Siebler J, Putnam S. Successful Outcomes With Nonoperative Treatment and Immediate Weightbearing Despite Stress-Positive Radiographs in Isolated Distal Fibula (OTA/AO 44B) Fractures. J Orthop Trauma 2024; 38:e20-e27. [PMID: 37853554 DOI: 10.1097/bot.0000000000002719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine whether a nonoperative management protocol results in equivalent outcomes in isolated OTA/AO 44B (Weber B) fractures without initial medial clear space (MCS) widening regardless of stress radiography findings. METHODS DESIGN Prospective cohort. SETTING Level 1 academic trauma center. PATIENT SELECTION CRITERIA Nonoperatively managed patients with isolated OTA/AO 44B fractures and MCS ≤4 mm on initial non-weightbearing injury radiographs between from January 2018 and January 2022 were included. All patients underwent emergency department gravity stress radiographs and those with widening were considered the widening cohort and those without the non-widening cohort. OUTCOME MEASURE AND COMPARISONS MCS measurements on weightbearing radiographs were obtained at first follow-up, 6 weeks, 12 weeks, and 6 months postinjury, were considered indicative of instability if >4 mm and were compared between cohorts.; American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society ankle-hindfoot scores were also compared between cohorts. RESULTS Sixty-nine patients were studied. None of the 38 patients (55%) with widening on gravity stress radiographs demonstrated widening with weightbearing radiographs at any time point. Mean MCS measurement differences between the 2 cohorts were statistically significant for all time points ( P = 0.012); however, with a model adjusted mean MCS value of 2.7 mm for the nonwidening cohort and 2.9 mm for the widening cohort, these are not clinically significant. There was no statistically significant difference in overall final American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society scores between the 2 groups ( P = 0.451). In addition, statistical equivalence using Schuirmann 2 one-sided tests was achieved between the 2 groups. Both cohorts had mean American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society scores representing excellent outcomes at the final follow-up. CONCLUSIONS Patients with isolated OTA/AO 44B fractures without MCS widening on initial injury radiographs did not demonstrate instability on subsequent weightbearing radiographs and had equivalent outcomes regardless of gravity stress radiography findings when treated nonoperatively. Weightbearing radiographs at the initial follow-up appear to be a reliable assessment of ankle stability in these injuries and are an appropriate alternative to painful and time-consuming stress radiography. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Therapeutic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Stockwell
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
| | | | | | - Elizabeth Lyden
- University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Public Health, Omaha, NE
| | - Matthew Mormino
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
| | - Justin Siebler
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
| | - Sara Putnam
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
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Dalen AF, Gregersen MG, Skrede AL, Bjelland Ø, Myklebust TÅ, Nilsen FA, Molund M. Effects of Progressive Deltoid Ligament Sectioning on Weber B Ankle Fracture Stability. Foot Ankle Int 2023; 44:895-904. [PMID: 37480255 PMCID: PMC10500948 DOI: 10.1177/10711007231180212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Conventionally, transsyndesmotic fibula fractures with concomitant signs of deltoid ligament injury have been considered unstable and thus treated operatively. Recent studies have indicated that partial deltoid ligament rupture is common and may allow for nonoperative treatment of stress-unstable ankles if normal tibiotalar alignment is obtained in the weightbearing position. Biomechanical support for this principle is scarce. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the biomechanical effects of gradually increasing deltoid ligament injury in transsyndesmotic fibula fractures. METHODS Fifteen cadaveric ankle specimens were tested using an industrial robot. All specimens were tested in 4 states: native, SER2, SER4a, and SER4b models. Ankle stability was measured in lateral translation, valgus, and internal and external rotation stress in 3 talocrural joint positions: 20 degrees plantarflexion, neutral, and 10 degrees dorsiflexion. Talar shift and talar valgus tilt in the talocrural joint was measured using fluoroscopy. RESULTS In most tests, SER2 and SER4a models resulted in a small instability increase compared to native joints and thus were deemed stable according to our predefined margins. However, SER4a models were unstable when tested in the plantarflexed position and for external rotation in all positions. In contrast, SER4b models had large-magnitude instability in all directions and all tested positions and were thus deemed unstable. CONCLUSION This study demonstrated substantial increases in instability between the SER4a and SER4b states. This controlled cadaveric simulation suggests a significant ankle-stabilizing role of the deep posterior deltoid after oblique transsyndesmotic fibular fracture and transection of the superficial and anterior deep deltoid ligaments. CLINICAL RELEVANCE The study provides new insights into how the heterogenicity of deltoid ligament injuries can affect the natural stability of the ankle after Weber B fractures. These findings may be useful in developing more targeted and better treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas F. Dalen
- Department of Research and Innovation, Møre and Romsdal Hospital Trust, Ålesund, Norway
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Møre and Romsdal Hospital Trust, Ålesund, Norway
| | - Martin G. Gregersen
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Østfold Hospital Trust, Grålum, Norway
- Institute of Health and Society, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Aleksander L. Skrede
- Department of ICT and Natural Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Ålesund, Møre og Romsdal, Norway
| | - Øystein Bjelland
- Department of ICT and Natural Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Ålesund, Møre og Romsdal, Norway
| | - Tor Åge Myklebust
- Department of Research and Innovation, Møre and Romsdal Hospital Trust, Ålesund, Norway
- Department of Registration, Cancer Registry of Norway, Oslo, Norway
| | - Fredrik A. Nilsen
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Østfold Hospital Trust, Grålum, Norway
| | - Marius Molund
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Østfold Hospital Trust, Grålum, Norway
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McCormack DJ, Solan M, Aziz S, Faroug R, Kirmani S, Wright G, Mangwani J. Role of the posterior deep deltoid ligament in ankle fracture stability: A biomechanical cadaver study. World J Orthop 2022; 13:969-977. [PMID: 36439368 PMCID: PMC9685633 DOI: 10.5312/wjo.v13.i11.969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The deltoid ligament is a key component of ankle fracture stability. Clinical tests to assess deltoid ligament injury have low specificity. In supination external-rotation (SER) type-IV ankle fractures, there is either a medial malleolus fracture or deltoid ligament injury. These injuries are often considered unstable, requiring surgical stabilisation. We look to identify the anatomical basis for this instability. This study investigates the anatomical basis for such instability by re-creating SER type ankle fractures in a standardised cadaveric study model, investigating the anatomical basis for such instability.
AIM To investigate the anatomical basis for fracture instability in SER type ankle fractures.
METHODS Four matched pairs of cadaveric limbs were tested for stability both when axially loaded and under external rotation stress. Four matched pairs of cadaveric limbs (8 specimens) were tested for stability when axially loaded to 750 N with a custom rig. Specimens were tested through increasing stages of SER injury in a stepwise fashion before restoring the lateral side with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). Clinical photographs and radiographs were recorded at each step. We defined instability in accordance with well accepted radiological parameters: > 4 mm medial clear space opening on a mortise-view radiograph or > 7 degrees of talar tilt.
RESULTS All specimens with an intact posterior deep deltoid ligament were stable. Once the posterior deep deltoid ligament was sectioned there was instability in all specimens. Stabilisation of the lateral side prevented talar shift, but not talar tilt.
CONCLUSION If the posterior deep deltoid ligament is intact then SER fractures can be managed without surgery. If the posterior deep deltoid is incompetent, ORIF and cautious rehabilitation is recommended because the talus can still tilt in the mortise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel James McCormack
- Department of Trauma and Orthopaedics, University Hospitals of Leicester, Leicester LE1 5WW, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew Solan
- Department of Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery, Royal Surrey City Hospital NHS Trust, University of Surrey, Guilford GU2 7XX, United Kingdom
| | - Sheweidin Aziz
- Department of Trauma and Orthopaedics, University Hospitals of Leicester, Leicester LE1 5WW, United Kingdom
| | - Radwane Faroug
- Department of Trauma and Orthopaedics, Stoke Mandeville Hospital, Aylesbury HP21 8AL, Buckinghampshire, United Kingdom
| | - Sayyied Kirmani
- Department of Trauma and Orthopaedics, University Hospitals of Leicester, Leicester LE1 5WW, United Kingdom
| | - Georgina Wright
- Department of Trauma and Orthopaedics, University Hospitals of Leicester, Leicester LE1 5WW, United Kingdom
| | - Jitendra Mangwani
- Department of Trauma and Orthopaedics, University Hospitals of Leicester, Leicester LE1 5WW, United Kingdom
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Lee J, Lee HS, Kim JW, Lee BS, Choi Y. Radiographic parameters of the normal ankle syndesmosis: Comparison between hindfoot alignment view and anteroposterior view. J Int Med Res 2022; 50:3000605221098862. [PMID: 35570658 PMCID: PMC9112776 DOI: 10.1177/03000605221098862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the parameters associated with the normal ankle syndesmosis between the hindfoot alignment view (HAV) and anteroposterior (AP) view and determine which view is more accurate for comparing the left and right ankles. METHODS This study involved 61 subjects without syndesmosis injury who had radiographs of both ankles. The tibiofibular clear space (TFCS), tibiofibular overlap (TFO), and medial clear space (MCS) were measured in each view. Intraclass correlation coefficients were used to assess the agreement between the two ankles. Difference ratios for the measured parameters between the ankles were also compared. RESULTS The agreement for TFCS showed wide disparity between the two ankles (AP view, 0.576; HAV, 0.858). The highest degree of agreement was seen for TFO (AP view, 0.733; HAV, 0.926). The agreement for MCS was low in both groups. The mean difference ratio for TFCS was also lower in the HAV group (9.9%) than in the AP view group (16.4%); a similar result was observed for TFO (16.4% vs. 25.8%). CONCLUSIONS For evaluation of the syndesmosis, use of the HAV showed increased accuracy and few measurement errors when comparing the left and right ankles relative to use of the AP view.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaehyung Lee
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University College of Medicine, Anyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Ho Seong Lee
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Wan Kim
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Bum-Sik Lee
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Youngrak Choi
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Chiang CC, Lin CFJ, Tzeng YH, Teng MH, Yang TC. Arthroscopic Quantitative Measurement of Medial Clear Space for Deltoid Injury of the Ankle: A Cadaveric Comparative Study With Stress Radiography. Am J Sports Med 2022; 50:778-787. [PMID: 35289224 DOI: 10.1177/03635465211067806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The deltoid ligament (DL) is an important stabilizer of the ankle. DL injury of varying severity can occur alone or with syndesmotic injury and fibular fracture. Limited diagnostic tools are available to assess DL injury quantitatively. PURPOSE To establish an arthroscopic quantitative assessment of DL injury and to compare its performance with that of external rotation stress (ERS) and gravity stress (GS) radiography. STUDY DESIGN Controlled laboratory study. METHODS In total, 24 cadaveric lower extremities were divided into 4 groups: group 1 consisted of intact DL, group 2 of superficial DL disruption, group 3 of deep DL disruption, and group 4 of complete DL (superficial and deep) disruption. All specimens underwent sequential sectioning of syndesmotic ligaments, and medial clear space (MCS) was measured with ankle arthroscopy, ERS radiography, and GS radiography at different stages of syndesmotic sectioning. RESULTS For noninjured deltoid (group 1) and injured deltoid (groups 2-4), area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of measurement of MCS was 0.939 for arthroscopy, 0.932 for ERS radiography, and 0.874 for GS radiography, with a significant difference between arthroscopy and GS radiography (P = .014). For incomplete deltoid injury (groups 1-3) and complete deltoid injury (group 4), the AUC of MCS was 0.811 for arthroscopy, 0.656 for ERS radiography, and 0.721 for GS radiography, with a significant difference between arthroscopy and ERS radiography (P < .001) and between arthroscopy and GS radiography (P = .035). For all stages of syndesmotic sectioning, cutoff values of arthroscopic MCS with intact fibula were ≤2.5 mm for intact DL, between 2.5 and 3.5 mm for partial DL injury (superficial or deep), and ≥3.5 mm for complete DL injury. Arthroscopy was unable to detect a difference between superficial deltoid injury (group 2) and deep deltoid injury (group 3) in partial DL injury, with a measured MCS between 2.5 and 3.5 mm. The intraclass correlation coefficient of interrater reliability was 0.975 for arthroscopy, 0.917 for ERS radiography, and 0.811 for GS radiography. CONCLUSION Arthroscopic MCS measurement can differentiate intact DL, partial DL injury, and complete DL injury. Compared with ERS and GS radiography, arthroscopic MCS measurement has greater accuracy with excellent interrater reliability. CLINICAL RELEVANCE For patients with suspected DL injury, arthroscopic MCS is useful for determining deltoid lesion severity based on defined cutoff values for consideration in preoperative planning to improve surgical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao-Ching Chiang
- Division of Orthopaedic Trauma, Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Orthopaedics, School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Fu Jeff Lin
- Department of Statistics, National Taipei University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yun-Hsuan Tzeng
- Division of Medical Imaging for Health Management, Cheng-Hsin General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Hung Teng
- Department of Orthopaedics, School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Orthopedics, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Yuli Branch, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Tzu-Cheng Yang
- Department of Orthopaedics, School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Orthopaedics, China Medical University Hsinchu Hospital, Hsinchu, Taiwan
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Medial Ankle Stability Evaluation With Dynamic Ultrasound: Establishing Natural Variations in the Healthy Cohort. J Am Acad Orthop Surg 2021; 29:703-713. [PMID: 34270497 DOI: 10.5435/jaaos-d-20-00597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 10/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Destabilizing injuries to the deltoid ligament have relied on radiographic stress examination for diagnosis, with a focus on medial clear space (MCS) widening. Recently, studies have demonstrated the use of ultrasonography to assess deltoid ligament injury, but not the medial ankle stability. The purpose of this study was to assess the MCS via ultrasonography while weight-bearing and with a gravity stress test (GST) in the uninjured ankle as a means of establishing normative values for future comparison. METHODS Twenty-six participants with no reported ankle injury in their premedical history were included. The MCS was examined using ultrasonography with the patient lying in a lateral decubitus position to replicate a GST with the ankle held in a neutral and plantarflexed position as well as while weight-bearing. The MCS was assessed in mm at the anteromedial and inferomedial aspect of the ankle joint. RESULTS With weight-bearing, the average anterior MCS and inferior MCS were 3.6 and 3.3 mm, respectively. During the GST in neutral ankle position, the average anterior MCS was 4.1 mm, whereas the average inferior MCS was 4.0 mm. When measured during the GST in plantarflexed ankle position, the averages anterior MCS and inferior MCS increased to 4.4 mm. MCS values were notably higher with GST than with weight-bearing measurements (P < 0.001). MCS values were notably higher with the foot in a plantarflexed compared with a neutral position when doing GST (P < 0.001). No notable differences in MCS distance were found when comparing laterality (P > 0.05). Height had a notable effect on all MCS values (P < 0.05). Inter- and intra-rater reliabilities for ultrasonographic MCS measurements were all excellent (interclass correlation coefficient >0.75). DISCUSSION Ultrasound can reliably measure the MCS of the ankle while doing dynamic stress manoeuvres. With the deltoid ligament intact, a GST increases MCS widening more than weight-bearing, and holding the ankle in plantarflexion while doing a gravity stress view, further increases this difference. LEVELS OF EVIDENCE Diagnostic studies-investigating a diagnostic test: Level III.
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van Leeuwen CAT, van Dorst RWJJ, Krijnen P, Schipper IB, Hoogendoorn JM. The Value of Additional Gravity Stress Radiographs for Decision Making in the Treatment of Isolated Type B Distal Fibular Fractures. Foot Ankle Int 2021; 42:1031-1039. [PMID: 33853346 DOI: 10.1177/10711007211001037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prior to treatment decisions concerning isolated Weber type B ankle fractures, assessment of the stability of the ankle joint is mandatory. The gravity stress (GS) radiograph is a radiographic tool to determine stability. We hypothesized that this additional GS radiograph would lead to fewer operative treatments by applying the criterion of operative treatment when medial clear space (MCS) > superior clear space (SCS) + 2 mm on the GS radiograph, compared with the nonstressed mortise view criteria of advising operative treatment in case of MCS > SCS + 1 mm. METHODS This retrospective comparative cohort study analyzed 343 patients aged between 18 and 70 years with an isolated Weber type B ankle fracture diagnosed at the emergency department between January 2014 and December 2019. The cohort was divided into 2 groups based on whether an additional GS radiograph was performed. Group I consisted of 151 patients in whom a regular mortise and lateral radiograph were performed. Group II comprised 192 patients, with an additional GS radiograph. Primary outcome was type of treatment (conservative vs operative). Secondary outcomes were patient-reported functional outcomes and pain. RESULTS Baseline characteristics of both groups did not differ. In group I, surgery was performed in 60 patients (39.7%) compared with 108 patients (56.3%) in group II (P = .002). In the operatively treated patients, the mean MCS on regular mortise view was significantly smaller in patients in whom an additional GS radiograph was performed compared to patients without an additional GS radiograph (4.1 mm vs 5.2 mm, P < .001). Mean Olerud-Molander Ankle Score and mean visual analog scale (VAS) for pain did not differ significantly between groups I and II. CONCLUSIONS Contrary to what was hypothesized, the introduction of an additional gravity stress radiograph, by which operative treatment was indicated if the MCS was wider than the SCS + 2 mm, did not result in reduced operative treatment of Weber type B ankle fractures when operative treatment was indicated for MCS > SCS + 1 mm on non-gravity stress radiographs. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level III: retrospective comparative study.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Roderick W J J van Dorst
- Department of Surgery, Haaglanden Medical Centre, the Hague, the Netherlands.,Department of Trauma Surgery, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Pieta Krijnen
- Department of Trauma Surgery, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Inger B Schipper
- Department of Trauma Surgery, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
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Abstract
Chronic deltoid instability (CDI), or medial ankle instability, can happen following traumas of the foot and ankle, predominantly rotational injuries. CDI is frequently underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed. Long-term residual instability can lead to ankle posttraumatic arthritis. Adequate assessment of patients with suspected CDI is paramount. Conservative treatment can be tried for stable or mildly unstable cases, but surgical treatment is usually needed for the more severely unstable patients, or when conservative measures fail. Few reconstruction techniques have been proposed in the setting of posttraumatic CDI. This article describes our preferred technique for reconstruction of the deep components of the deltoid ligament.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cesar de Cesar Netto
- Foot and Ankle Services, Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, University of Iowa, Carver College of Medicine, John Pappajohn Pavilion (JPP), Room 01066, Lower Level, 200 Hawkins Drive, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA.
| | - John E Femino
- Foot and Ankle Services, Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, University of Iowa, Carver College of Medicine, John Pappajohn Pavilion (JPP), Room 01066, Lower Level, 200 Hawkins Drive, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
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11
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Deltoid Ligament Injuries Associated With Ankle Fractures: Arguments For and Against Direct Repair. J Am Acad Orthop Surg 2021; 29:e388-e395. [PMID: 33417379 DOI: 10.5435/jaaos-d-20-00323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Ankle fractures are an extremely common orthopaedic injury treated by surgeons on a routine basis. The deltoid ligament is torn in a large number of these fractures and is commonly seen with associated radiographic changes of medial clear space widening. The clinical relevance of addressing the injured deltoid ligament with acute surgical repair has been debated for decades. The early literature documenting repair or reconstruction of the deltoid ligament dates back to the 1950s. Most commonly, orthopaedic surgeons restore the lateral column directly with fibula fracture fixation. The injury may then be further evaluated intraoperatively by stress testing to ensure syndesmosis integrity and mortise stability with indirect medial column reduction, which allows for secondary healing of the medial deltoid ligamentous complex. This popular treatment paradigm is based primarily on literature from the 1980s and has not been thoroughly evaluated with modern surgical implants, techniques, and research methods. A review and background of the supportive literature for and against deltoid ligament repair in the setting of acute ankle fractures is presented. Undeniably, the deltoid ligament complex has been proven to confer some element of stability to maintaining a congruent ankle mortise. The commonly cited data in favor of not repairing the deltoid ligament warrants careful consideration to allow accuracy in obtaining the best patient outcomes with the most predictable surgical methods available.
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Nasrallah K, Haim S, Einal B. Therapeutic approach to combined deltoid ligament disruption with lateral malleolus fracture: Current evidence and literature review. Orthop Rev (Pavia) 2021; 13:8987. [PMID: 33936572 PMCID: PMC8082171 DOI: 10.4081/or.2021.8987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 11/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Ankle fractures are among the most common injuries treated by orthopaedic traumatologists. These fractures range from stable, simple injuries to complex, multi-planar unstable ones. Osseo-ligamentous structures play a paramount role in maintaining the stability of the ankle joint. The deltoid ligament is among the most important ankle static stabilizers. Rupture of this ligament along with a lateral malleolar fracture is considered by many as an unstable type of injury and usually requires surgical treatment (bi-malleolar equivalent). Left untreated, it may lead to chronic pain, loss of function and secondary arthritis. Due to lack of high-quality evidence, there are no welldefined, well-accepted criteria for the diagnosis and treatment for treating this type of injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khalil Nasrallah
- Galilee Medical Center, Department of Orthopedics, Nahariya, Israel
| | - Shtarker Haim
- Galilee Medical Center, Department of Orthopedics, Nahariya, Israel
| | - Bathish Einal
- Galilee Medical Center, Department of Orthopedics, Nahariya, Israel
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Yang Y, He W, Zhou H, Xia J, Li B, Yu T. Combined Posteromedial and Posterolateral Approaches for 2-Part Posterior Malleolar Fracture Fixation. Foot Ankle Int 2020; 41:1234-1239. [PMID: 32683981 DOI: 10.1177/1071100720937637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study investigated the clinical efficacy of combined posteromedial and posterolateral approaches for repair of 2-part posterior malleolar fractures associated with medial and lateral malleolar fractures. METHODS This case series report included 27 Weber B with Haraguchi type II patients with medial and lateral malleolar fractures combined with 2-part posterior malleolar fractures. Patients were treated with open reduction and internal fixation through a combination of posteromedial and posterolateral approaches from January 2015 to January 2018. There were 11 males and 16 females, with an average age of 61.5 years (range, 53-67 years). The procedures were performed on prone patients under spinal anesthesia. The medial, lateral, and posterior malleolar fractures were exposed through posteromedial and posterolateral approaches performed at the same time. The lateral malleolar fracture was fixed using a plate, the medial malleolar fracture was fixed using screws, and the posterior malleolar fracture was fixed using a plate or cannulated screws according to the size of the fragments. We performed follow-up on 22 patients for an average of 30 months (range, 18-48 months). RESULTS Primary healing of the incisions was achieved in all cases, and no infection was found. The mean time of bone union was 12.5 weeks (range, 10-15 weeks). The mean time from the operation to full weightbearing was 13 weeks (range, 11-16 weeks). We used the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle-Hindfoot Scale to score patient outcomes; the mean score was 85.4 (range, 80-92) at the final follow-up. No significant pain was found at the final follow-up. CONCLUSION This study showed that satisfactory outcomes were achieved with combined posteromedial and posterolateral approaches. Therefore, we believe this approach was a good alternative strategy to repair 2-part posterior malleolar fractures associated with medial and lateral malleolar fractures. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level IV, retrospective case series.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunfeng Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenbao He
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Haichao Zhou
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiang Xia
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Bing Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Tao Yu
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Abstract
Isolated lateral malleolus fractures represent one of the most common injuries encountered by orthopaedic surgeons. Nevertheless, appropriate diagnosis and management of these injuries are not clearly understood. Ankle stability is maintained by ligamentous and bony anatomy. The deep deltoid ligament is considered the primary stabilizer of the ankle. In the setting of an isolated lateral malleolus fracture, identifying injury to this ligament and associated ankle instability influences management. The most effective methods for assessing tibiotalar instability include stress and weight-bearing radiographs. Clinical examination findings are important but less reliable. Advanced imaging may not be accurate for guiding management. If the ankle is stable, nonsurgical management produces excellent outcomes. In the case that clinical/radiographic findings are indicative of ankle instability, surgical fixation options include lateral or posterolateral plating or intramedullary fixation. Locking plates and small or minifragment fixation are important adjuncts for the surgeon to consider based on individual patient needs.
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Çabuk H, Çelebi F, İmren Y, Dedeoğlu SS, Kır MÇ, Uyanık AF, Gürbüz H. Compatibility of Lauge-Hansen Classification Between Plain Radiographs and Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Ankle Fractures. J Foot Ankle Surg 2018; 57:712-715. [PMID: 29681436 DOI: 10.1053/j.jfas.2017.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2017] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
We evaluated the accuracy of the predictive injury sequences of the Lauge-Hansen (L-H) classification using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in patients with ankle fractures and determined the possible causes of mismatch. Sixty-five patients with ankle fractures who had a complete series of anteroposterior, lateral, and oblique radiographs and ankle MRI studies available were included. The fracture pattern was assigned by 2 senior orthopedic surgeons according to the L-H classification system. The syndesmotic ligaments, lateral collateral ligaments, and medial deltoid complex ligaments were evaluated on the preoperative MRI scans. Comparisons were performed between the predicted ankle ligamentous injury based on the radiographic L-H classification and preoperative MRI analysis. Of the 65 feet in 65 patients, 50 feet (76.9%) were classified as having a supination-external rotation (SER) fracture, 6 feet (9.2%) as having a pronation-external rotation fracture, 4 feet (6.2%) as having a supination adduction fracture, and 2 feet (3.1%) as having a pronation abduction fracture. The overall compatibility of the radiologic classification with the MRI classification was 66.1%. In the evaluation of 50 feet with the MRI SER designation, maximum compatibility was found for stage 4 (77.3%). The main cause for the discrepancy in the SER designation was missing the presence of deltoid ligament disruption on the plain radiographs, especially in the stage 2 and 3 SER fracture pattern. In the evaluation of deltoid complex injuries, all injuries were localized to the anterior part of the medial deltoid complex. The validity of the L-H classification system was low. A new classification system is needed to address the medial malleolus fracture or deltoid complex injuries without posterior injury. Also, stress radiographs could be added to standard radiographs for the classification to address deltoid complex injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haluk Çabuk
- Surgeon, Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Okmeydanı Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Filiz Çelebi
- Radiologist, Department of Radiology, Istanbul Bilim University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Yunus İmren
- Surgeon, Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Okmeydanı Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Süleyman Semih Dedeoğlu
- Surgeon, Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Okmeydanı Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Mustafa Çağlar Kır
- Surgeon, Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Okmeydanı Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Abdullah Faruk Uyanık
- Resident, Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Okmeydanı Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Hakan Gürbüz
- Professor, Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Okmeydanı Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
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