The Use of Hexapod External Fixation in the Management of Charcot Foot and Ankle Deformities.

Charcot neuroarthropathy (CN) and its sequela is a disabling pathology in the foot and ankle. The 2-stage computer hexapod-assisted technique is an effective tool to address midfoot Charcot and ankle-hindfoot deformities to restore function and decrease the risk of amputation secondary to ulceration and infection. Although this is not the only technique available, it is an excellent option in cases with significant angular deformity or subluxation, need to reduce shortening of the foot, and in the presence of soft tissue defects, with or without concurrent soft tissue or bone infection.

Mechanical Axis Method to Determine First Intermetatarsal Angle and Tibial Sesamoid Position.

Utilizing the mechanical axis can decrease load on the joint and be beneficial when analyzing bony deformities and planning surgical correction with osteotomies. The aim of this study was to identify the normal mechanical axes of the first and second metatarsals and use them to obtain the first/second mechanical intermetatarsal angle (mIMA). The mechanical axis of the first metatarsal was used to obtain the mechanical tibial sesamoid position (mTSP), which provides a mechanical relationship with the sesamoid apparatus.

Lengthen, Alignment, and Beam Technique for Midfoot Charcot Neuroarthropathy.

Charcot neuroarthropathy is a disabling pathology in the foot and ankle. Midfoot Charcot is most common and results in progressive deformity. We describe a 2-step approach to surgical reconstruction, referred to as the lengthen, alignment, and beam technique.