Z-lengthening of the Achilles tendon with transverse skin incision

Ultrasonic Evaluation of the Achilles Tendon in Patients Treated for Congenital Clubfoot: Comparison between Patients Treated with Plaster Alone, Achilles Tenotomy, and Z-Plasty Lengthening

BACKGROUND

Clubfoot is a common congenital deformity. The Ponseti technique, involving early corrective manipulations followed by applying long leg casts and Achilles tenotomy, is widely accepted as the preferred treatment. Rapid tendon healing after surgery has been documented, but the aspect regarding long-term tendon structure and properties is not known. Three cases of Achilles tendon rupture in adolescents previously treated for clubfoot have been described in the literature. As rupture is a rare event in this age group, a possible correlation with previous surgery has been hypothesized. The primary aim of the study was to compare the ultrasound findings of the Achilles tendon in patients treated for clubfoot, between patients treated with casting alone and with patients who underwent surgery (percutaneous tenotomy or Z-plasty lengthening).

METHODS

There were 22 asymptomatic patients (34 feet) with a median age of 12 years, previously treated for clubfoot, that were recruited for this study; the patients underwent an Achilles tendon ultrasound examination during a follow-up outpatient visit.

RESULTS

A greater thickness and increased number of structural alterations with the presence of hypoechoic areas of the operated tendons compared with those treated with plaster alone were observed (p-value: 0.0498 and <0.001, respectively). These ultrasound findings were indicative of tendon suffering, as seen in tendinopathies.

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of ultrasound alterations in asymptomatic patients operated on for clubfoot requires careful control of the extrinsic factors of tendinopathy in order to reduce the risk of subcutaneous rupture.

Postoperative Ankle Imaging, 2022

Postoperative ankle imaging requires knowledge of the underlying surgical techniques, the usefulness of various imaging modalities, as well as an appreciation for the desired clinical outcomes. Surgical procedures discussed in this article are tibiotalar fracture fixation, tibiotalar, subtalar, and tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis, total ankle arthroplasty, talar osteochondral lesion repair and grafting, lateral ligamentous repair and reconstruction, and peroneal and Achilles tendon repair and reconstruction. Imaging can play a vital role in determining if the expected outcome has been achieved and identifying complications, with particular emphasis placed on the use of radiographs, computed tomography (including weight-bearing), magnetic resonance imaging, and ultrasonography.

Triple Hemisection Percutaneous Achilles Tendon Lengthening for Severe Ankle Joint Deformity

Objective

To investigate the efficacy of modified percutaneous Achilles tendon lengthening for severe ankle joint deformity.

Methods

This retrospective case series study included 33 patients with an average age of 25.2 years who underwent surgery in our hospital from April 1, 2010 to March 1, 2018. Triple hemisection percutaneous Achilles tendon lengthening was performed. One stage surgery, other soft tissue surgery or bone correction surgery could be performed. After surgery, a plaster cast was used to fix the functional position, and rehabilitation training was carried out as planned. Complications during the perioperative period were recorded. Statistical analysis of the patients' visual analogue scale (VAS) and American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score before and at the last follow‐up was performed. The recurrence rate of Achilles tendon contracture at the last follow‐up and the patients' satisfaction rate were investigated.

Results

All patients were followed up, with an average follow‐up period of 56.31 months (8–104 months). All achieved good ankle joint function and appearance improvement And there were no infection or skin necrosis complications. In two cases, the incision was poorly healed at non‐Achilles tendon site and was cured by change of dressing. The average VAS score at the last follow‐up was reduced from (2 ± 1.48) points before surgery to (0.26 ± 0.51) points (P = 0.001), and the average AOFAS score was increased from (64.97 ± 13.56) points before surgery to (90.06 ± 10.06) points (P = 0.001). During the follow‐up period, there was no chronic rupture of Achilles tendon. There were two cases of recurrence of foot drop (5.7%), and the patients' satisfaction rate was 93.9%.

Conclusion

In the surgical treatment of severe ankle joint deformity, the application of triple hemisection percutaneous Achilles tendon lengthening for Achilles tendon contracture has the advantages of less trauma, beautiful incision, and reliable efficacy. The satisfaction rate of patients with this treatment is high, and it is worth promoting in the clinic.

Sequential Bilateral Achilles Tendon Rupture in a Teenager After Ponseti Treatment for Bilateral Clubfoot: A Case Report

CASE

Our patient was born with bilateral congenital clubfeet and underwent standard Ponseti treatment. At 8 months of age, bilateral percutaneous Achilles tenotomies were performed, with an excellent outcome. At 16 years, he suffered a unilateral Achilles tendon rupture, and at 18 years, he suffered a contralateral Achilles rupture, both of which were successfully repaired.

CONCLUSION

As far as we know, this is the first reported case of bilateral Achilles tendon ruptures in an adolescent. This patient also previously underwent Ponseti casting and Achilles tenotomy for congenital clubfoot. We are aware of 5 previously reported cases of Achilles rupture in a pediatric or adolescent patient.

In Vivo Evaluation of the Mechanical Strength of a Slide Lengthening Technique With a Locking Mechanism Using a Rabbit Model

Background There are many reports of Achilles tendon lengthening procedures for equinus deformity of the ankle. We previously modified an Achilles tendon lengthening to prevent overextension with a locking mechanism suture before performing a sliding lengthening. The purpose of this study was to compare the biomechanical properties of the locking mechanism suture with sliding lengthening (L-SL) and Z-lengthening (ZL) using a rabbit model. Methods Thirty-six male Japanese white rabbits were assigned to two groups - half undergoing the L-SL technique and half undergoing the ZL technique on the flexor hallucis longus (FHL) tendon. Six rabbits in each group were sacrificed at one week, three weeks, and six weeks postoperatively and evaluated, while five rabbits underwent radiographical and biomechanical evaluation and one underwent histological evaluation. Results In extension length, L-SL was significantly lower than ZL one week postoperatively. In the L-SL group, elongation one week postoperatively was significantly lower than that three and six weeks postoperatively. In the ultimate failure load, L-SL was significantly higher than ZL one and three weeks after lengthening. In the L-SL group, the ultimate failure load one week postoperatively was significantly lower than that three and six weeks postoperatively. In the ZL group, there were significant differences at all time points. Conclusion  L-SL had higher mechanical property in vivo.

Necrosis in the flexor hallucis longus muscle after subclinical leg compartment syndrome and tibial fracture: A case report

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Undetected compartment syndrome can cause disabling complications.

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In untreated compartment syndrome, nerve and vascular injury results in motor weakness, contractures, or muscle necrosis.

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Thorough examination must be done to identify the affected stuctures.

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The treatment should be based on functional outcomes, e.g., a stable foot for pain-free, plantigrade gait.

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Surgical therapy is indicated if the ankle joint cannot be restored to a functional position with conservative methods.

Introduction

Compartment syndrome is a condition in which an increased pressure within one compartment results in decreased blood flow, preventing nutrition and blood supply from reaching nerve and muscle cells. Ongoing physiological cascades can progress to local and systemic manifestations. This article presents a case of subclinical compartment syndrome resulting in muscle necrosis and contracture. More specifically, this article highlights the presentation of a complicated and neglected case of subclinical compartment syndrome with a subsequent fixed equinus deformity and its management.

Presentation of case

A 15-year-old high school student sustained a proximal tibia fracture during a motor vehicle accident. The compartment was not recognized until a period of follow-up. The patient later presented to our clinic with ankle equinus deformity. Further exploration found the contracture and necrosis of flexor hallucis longus (FHL) muscle. We excised the necrotic wound and performed an ankle fusion.

Discussion

The patient had developed subclinical localized deep posterior compartment syndrome in the distal portion of the FHL muscle. As only a small portion of the muscle was involved, there was no retraction of the main muscle belly; however, the necrotic part can become fibrotic and adhere to the surrounding tissues. While subclinical compartment syndrome is not uncommon, the finding of isolated FHL muscle necrosis is rare. Thus, the management is still debatable.

Conclusion

This article emphasized that neglecting compartment syndrome may result in undesired complications, which emphasizes the importance of an early diagnosis and treatment.

A simple approach for determining tendon limb length in open Achilles lengthening: technical note

Estimating the appropriate tendon length and associated skin incision needed to achieve a plantigrade foot without compromising function are essential steps in open Achilles tendon lengthening. Here we describe a technique using basic surgical instruments referencing anatomic landmarks without the need for radiographs. The center of ankle rotation in the sagittal plane is found referencing the tip of the medial malleolus. This point is translated to the plantar surface of the foot, and a straight instrument in line with the foot is used to make a mark at the posterior calcaneal fat pad. The straight instrument is then rotated (representing the plantar surface of the foot) as if dorsiflexing the ankle along the axis of the transposed tibiotalar joint from a plantar-flexed position to the desired final position and a second mark is made at the posterior heel. The distance between the marks is measured, representing the amount of Achilles lengthening required. The skin incision and tendon limb lengths area a sum of the operative correction and the amount of desired tendon overlap, typically 2 cm of tendon overlap is optimal to allow for suture fixation, ensure tendon healing, and maintain the integrity of the repair. A Z-type lengthening is then performed using this tendon limb length. This technique allows an accurate and simple approach to lengthening the Achilles tendon. In this way the ideal tendon limb length is selected to optimize function while minimizing incision length, associated wound complications, inadequate lengthening, and overlengthening. Level of evidence: Technical note, Level V.

Modified Percutaneous Achilles Tendon Lengthening by Triple Hemisection for Achilles Tendon Contracture

Background

Both percutaneous Achilles tendon lengthening by triple hemisection and the traditional open Z-lengthening are effective methods for Achilles tendon contracture. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of this new therapeutic method, which is based on the percutaneous sliding technique with three hemi-cuts in the tendon, as compared with the traditional open Z-lengthening.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of the Achilles tendon contracture cases in our hospital between January 2010 and September 2016 was conducted. Twenty-five cases received percutaneous Achilles tendon lengthening (group A), and 30 patients who underwent open Z-lengthening during the same period were in the control group (group B). Operative time and hospital stay were statistically analyzed. Incision complication, equinus recurrence rate and Achilles tendon rupture morbidity were recorded. The function was assessed by American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) score. All cases in group A received Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of ankle preoperatively and in the follow-ups.

Results

The mean follow-up period was 42.04 months in group A and 61.7 months in group B. The entire operative time and the mean hospitalization days were lower in group A than in group B. No incision and infection complication occurred in group A. The infection rate in group B was 3.3%. Equinus recurrence rate was 4% in group A and the equinus recurrence rate in group B was 21.4%. In group A, the mean AOFAS score increased from 64 ± 10.16 points preoperatively to 96.08 ± 3.17 at final follow-up, while the score in group B increased from 63.48 ± 6.2 points to 85.4 ± 10.3. MRI showed continuity of the Achilles tendon and homogeneous signal in group A.

Conclusion

Modified surgery can significantly reduce the risk of Achilles tendon rupture, provide better balance in soft tissue strength between ankle dorsiflexion and ankle plantarflexion, helping to avoid recurrence of the deformity.

Arthroscopic Lengthening of the Flexor Hallucis Longus Tendon to Correct Hallux Flexion Deformity

Contracture of the flexor hallucis longus (FHL) tendon is one of the most common factors leading to hallux flexion deformity. Few cases treated by arthroscopic technology have been reported. In this article, we perform a new method to lengthen the FHL tendon under an arthroscope. We present a case of 1 patient treated with this technique and followed for 2 years. The appearance of his halluces remarkably improved at the follow-up visits, and movement was refined simultaneously. From the satisfactory effect of this operation, lengthening the FHL tendon under arthroscope is an effective method to correct flexion deformity of the hallux with minimal incisions. This technique also provides an innovative application of minimally invasive surgeries to treat clinically infrequent diseases.

CT and MR Imaging of the Postoperative Ankle and Foot

A variety of surgical procedures exist for repair of both traumatic and degenerative osseous and soft-tissue pathologic conditions involving the foot and ankle. It is necessary for the radiologist to be familiar with these surgical procedures, so as to assess structural integrity, evaluate for complicating features, and avoid diagnostic pitfalls. Adequate interpretation of postoperative changes often requires access to surgical documentation to evaluate not only the surgery itself but the expected timeline for resolution of normal postoperative changes versus progressive disease. Appropriate use of surgical language in radiology reports is another important skill set to hone and is instrumental in providing a high-quality report to the referring surgeons. The pathophysiology of a myriad of surgical complaints, beginning from the Achilles tendon and concluding at the plantar plate, are presented, as are their common appearances at computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. Commonly encountered entities include Achilles tendon tear, spastic equinus, nonspastic equinus, talar dome osteochondral defect, tarsal tunnel syndrome, plantar fasciitis, pes planovalgus, pes cavovarus, peroneal tendinosis, lateral ligament complex pathology, Morton neuroma, plantar plate tear, and metatarsophalangeal joint instability. Computer-generated three-dimensional models are included with many of the procedures to provide a more global view of the surgical anatomy. Correlation with intraoperative photographs is made when available. When appropriate, discussion of postoperative complications, including entities such as infection and failure of graft integration, is presented, although a comprehensive review of postoperative complications is beyond the scope of this article. Notably absent from the current review are some common foot and ankle procedures including hallux valgus and hammertoe corrections, as these are more often evaluated radiographically than with cross-sectional imaging. ^©RSNA, 2016.

Joint Contractures Resulting From Prolonged Immobilization: Etiology, Prevention, and Management

Patients who are immobilized for a prolonged period are at risk for developing joint contractures, which often affect functional outcomes. Nonsurgical interventions are useful for preventing joint contractures. However, once contractures develop, these interventions frequently fail to restore function over the long term. To increase the rehabilitation potential of an extremity with refractory function-limiting contractures, surgery is often required.

Early management of neurologic clubfoot using Ponseti casting with minor posterior release in myelomeningocele: a preliminary report

This study aimed to examine the results of manipulation and serial casting, followed by open Achilles lengthening combined, when necessary, with posterior release in the management of neurologic clubfoot in infants with myelomeningocele. This study was carried out prospectively with a minimum follow-up of 2 years on 24 consecutive infants (48 feet) with neurologic insensate feet. Manipulation and serial casting were performed, followed by open tendo Achilles lengthening with/without posterior capsulotomy of the ankle and subtalar joints. The Diméglio scoring system was used to assess the degree of deformity correction immediately postoperatively and the latest follow-up visits. The mean age of the patients at initial treatment was 5.9 (3-8) weeks. None of the patients was lost to follow-up. For 36 feet, the final range of scores was 5-6 and the deformities were grade II of moderate type. Only for seven of 48 feet the final scores were in the range 10-12, grade III, and severe type. Only three infants (5/48 feet) failed to show any improvement. We thus support this treatment for the management of insensate feet of infants with myelomeningocele soon after birth as most infants responded satisfactorily in terms of deformity correction and achieved plantigrade mobile feet that fit into orthotics.