The effect of a collagen-elastin matrix on adhesion formation after flexor tendon repair in a rabbit model.

Purpose: The outcome of flexor tendon surgery is negatively affected by the formation of adhesions which can occur during the healing of the tendon repair. In this experimental study, we sought to prevent adhesion formation by wrapping a collagen-elastin scaffold around the repaired tendon segment.

Methods: In 28 rabbit hind legs, the flexor tendons of the third and fourth digits were cut and then repaired using a two-strand suture technique on the fourth digit and a four-strand technique on the third digit.

Changes in length of the plantar aponeurosis during the stance phase of gait--an in vivo dynamic fluoroscopic study.

In locomotion, ligaments and muscles have been recognized to support the arch of the foot. However, it remains unclear to what extent the passive and active structures of the lower extremity support the longitudinal arch of the foot during walking. In this study, the mechanical function of the plantar aponeurosis (PA) is investigated by elongation measurements in vivo during the stance phase of gait, in combination with measurements of the mechanical properties of the PA in vitro.

[Tarsometatarsal injuries--an often neglected entity].

Tarsometatarsal dislocations or fracture dislocations represent infrequent, but severe injuries which endanger the structural and mechanical integrity of the midfoot if the diagnosis is missed initially. Delayed diagnosis may result in painful and disabling arthritis and the need for salvage reconstructive surgery. As such, the rationale of treatment should follow the principles of reconstruction of weight-bearing joint injuries.

Gait function after fracture-dislocation of the midtarsal and/or tarsometatarsal joints.

INTRODUCTION:: Fracture-dislocations of the Chopart or Lisfranc joint line represent rather rare injuries which usually result from high-energy trauma. During the last decade surgical therapy, including open reduction and internal fixation, had been accepted as the best way to achieve an optimum return to function. Repeatedly, it had been stated that anatomical reduction represented the prerequisite for satisfactory results.