Clinics in podiatric medicine and surgery
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Clin Podiatr Med Surg · Aug 2011
ReviewAdvanced foot and ankle fixation techniques in patients with diabetes.
This article presents advanced techniques and current fixation constructs that are advantageous for the management of diabetic foot and ankle trauma and Charcot neuroarthropathy. Both these pathologies are often intimately related, and the fixation constructs that are required often require sound biomechanical concepts coupled with innovative approaches to achieve bone healing and limb salvage.
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Clin Podiatr Med Surg · Aug 2011
ReviewOpening wedge and anatomic-specific plates in foot and ankle applications.
As surgeons continually push to improve techniques and outcomes, anatomic-specific and procedure-specific fixation options are becoming increasingly available. The unique size, shape, and function of the foot provide an ideal framework for the use of anatomic-specific plates. ⋯ By optimizing support, compression, and stabilization, patients may return to weight bearing and activity sooner, improving outcomes. This article discusses anatomic-specific plates and their use in forefoot and rearfoot surgical procedures.
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Clin Podiatr Med Surg · Aug 2011
ReviewAdvancements in percutaneous fixation for foot and ankle trauma.
Operative fixation of foot and ankle trauma can be challenging. Often times, the soft tissue envelope can have extensive damage as a result of the fracture. In these cases, percutaneous fixation may be used. ⋯ Many techniques have been described in the literature that may help to preserve blood supply, minimize soft tissue dissection, and restore a functional limb. This article reviews general guidelines for fracture and soft tissue management, osseous healing of fractures, and how certain techniques influence fracture healing. It also illustrates certain techniques for specific fracture reduction.
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Clin Podiatr Med Surg · Aug 2011
ReviewExternal fixation techniques for plastic and reconstructive surgery of the diabetic foot.
Wound healing in high-risk patients with diabetes is often lengthy and fraught with complications. Techniques in plastic and reconstructive surgery of the diabetic foot continue to develop as a result of advances in external fixation. This article highlights the surgical aspect of the diabetic foot with an emphasis on the indications, advantages, technical pearls, and complications with use of external fixation as an adjunct to plastic and reconstructive surgery of the diabetic foot.
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The Achilles tendon is the most injured tendon of athletes in the lower extremities and is the most common tendon to rupture spontaneously. Operative repair provides earlier return to sporting activities and lesser rate of rerupture. ⋯ New surgical approaches, including percutaneous and mini-open techniques, are being introduced to potentially diminish perioperative complications. Advent of early protective range of motion and rehabilitation has shown a potential for earlier return to sporting activities for Achilles ruptures.