Non-emergent Conditions of the Ankle, Hindfoot, and Midfoot in Elderly Patients Are as Mobility Limiting as Congestive Heart Failure.

Background: Mobility limitations are well linked to increased morbidity and mortality. Older patients with chronic pathologies of the foot and ankle can suffer from significant mobility limitations; however, the magnitude of limitation experienced by this cohort is not well characterized. Conversely, the effects of congestive heart failure (CHF) on patient mobility are routinely assessed via the New York Heart Association (NYHA) classification.

Comorbidities Associated With Poor Outcomes Following Operative Hammertoe Correction in a Geriatric Population.

Background: Although complications following hammertoe correction surgery are rare, older patients with comorbid conditions are often considered poorer operative candidates compared with younger, healthier patients because of a suspected increased risk of adverse outcomes. The aim of this study was to determine if the presence of multiple comorbidities was associated with increased complications or unsuccessful patient-reported outcomes following operative hammertoe correction in geriatric patients.

Methods: Prospectively collected data was reviewed on 78 patients aged 60 years or older who underwent operative correction of hammertoe deformity.

Effect of Psychotropic Medications on Hammertoe Reconstruction Outcomes.

Background: Hammertoe deformities can seriously affect activity level and footwear. The use of prescription, mood-altering medications is very common, with some estimates as high as 25% of the population. Mood disorders, especially depression, negatively affect the results of medical and operative treatments.