Dynamic splinting for postoperative hallux limitus: a randomized, controlled trial.

Background: Hallux limitus (HL) is a pathology of degenerative arthritis in the first metatarsophalangeal joint (MTJ) of the great toe. Chief complaints of HL include inflammation, edema, pain, and reduced flexibility. The onset of HL commonly occurs after one of the two most common surgical procedures for foot pathologies, a bunionectomy or a cheilectomy.

A bioabsorbable fixation implant for use in proximal interphalangeal joint (hammer toe) arthrodesis: Biomechanical testing in a synthetic bone substrate.

The surgical correction of hammer toe deformity of the lesser toes is one of the most commonly performed forefoot procedures. In general, percutaneous Kirschner wires are used to provide fixation to the resected proximal interphalangeal joint. Although these wires are effective, issues such as pin tract infections as well as difficult postoperative management by patients make alternative fixation methods desirable.

Demineralized bone matrix graft: a scientific and clinical case study assessment.

Osteoinductive demineralized bone matrix results from bone demineralization and is attributed to matrix-associated bone morphogenetic proteins. The osteoinductive potential can vary with donor. Many bioassay methods are available to screen donors, each with its own interpretation, so performance of more than one may be of value.

Mechanical characteristics of an absorbable copolymer internal fixation pin.

Absorbable internal fixation is gaining acceptance among foot and ankle surgeons. While absorbable pins made of poly-L-lactic acid, polyglycolic acid, or poly-p-dioxanone are generally effective as applied in the foot, their strength loss profiles and degradation characteristics may not be optimally matched to the healing process. This study investigated a novel absorbable oriented copolymer pin, with unique absorption characteristics, made of 82% poly-L-lactic acid and 18% polyglycolic acid, to determine its suitability for use in fixation in the foot.