The zero-plus first metatarsal and its relationship to bunion deformity.

The relationship between first metatarsal length and hallux valgus (HV) deformity was examined. Retrospectively, 210 randomly selected radiographic files were reviewed between 1988 and 1993. The morbid population consisted of 110 feet with HV deformities.

Brachymetatarsia with the use of digital arthroplastic bone.

A review of autogenous bone graft alternatives for the correction of brachymetatarsia is presented with an introduction of a unique autogenous choice. This involves the harvesting of bone from the second and third digits of the ipsilateral foot and transplanting it to the hypoplastic fourth metatarsal. A case study is discussed with its indications, techniques, and results.

Laser's use in bone and joint surgery.

The use of various lasers in medicine and surgery has progressed considerably. Obviously, the sheer number of lasers being used both clinically and experimentally indicates a great potential for further advancement and refinement in technique and surgical outcomes. Although the medical field has come very far accepting and using the laser, there is still a long way to go.

Carbon dioxide laser treatment of pedal verrucae.

Physicians always are pursuing improved results. In the case of pedal verrucae, the varying treatment modalities that have evolved are the product of a search, so far less than successful, for one that is virtually 100% effective. HPV is an extremely resilient and elusive organism, possessing the capabilities of lying dormant and suddenly springing to the surface of the skin.

Smooth Kirschner (K) wire fixation of distal metaphyseal osteotomy bunionectomies: a 10-year retrospective survey.

The authors reviewed 500 distal metaphyseal osteotomy bunionectomies with smooth Kirschner (K)-wire fixation performed over a 10-year period. Postoperatively, the patients were allowed to ambulate with a forefoot compression bandage and a semirigid surgical shoe. The cases were evaluated radiographically for malunion, delayed union, nonunion, aseptic necrosis, bone callus formation, and final alignment.

Cheilectomy: still a useful technique for grade I and grade II hallux limitus/rigidus.

Cheilectomy, as applied to hallux limitus/rigidus, is described as resection of the dorsal osteophytes and lateral/medial margins of the first metatarsal, as well as the dorsal lip of the base of the proximal phalanx. Forty-seven patients underwent unilateral cheilectomy, with an average follow-up of 3.5 years, and an average patient age of 52 years.

Wilson bunionectomy with internal fixation: a ten-year experience.

One hundred fifteen feet that underwent a Wilson (lateral, transpositional, shortening) osteotomy for the correction of hallux valgus between 1979 and 1989 were retrospectively reviewed. All osteotomies were stabilized either with a single cortical or cancellous screw, or with crossed Kirschner wires. The Wilson procedure is not technically difficult and can allow for tri-plane correction.

Carbon dioxide laser management of plantar verruca: a 6-year follow-up survey.

Patients receiving treatment for plantar verruca by carbon dioxide laser vaporization from 1984 through 1989 were surveyed with follow-up from 3 months to 6 years. Materials and methods, operative technique, and results were reviewed. This procedure was used as both a primary treatment as well as secondary or tertiary treatments on recalcitrant verrucae.

Complications of foot surgery. Laser surgery.

The carbon dioxide laser, when used surgically, is a possible source of complications. Knowledge of laser physics, tissue effects, and target tissue anatomy are of the utmost importance for minimizing complications. This article seeks to elucidate the factors involved in laser beam physics and the effect of these factors on target tissue, based on specific tissue anatomy.

Accessory ossicle of the lateral malleolus.

The authors present a case history of a patient with chronic lateral ankle pain and instability secondary to an accessory ossicle of the fibula. Conservative therapy failed to alleviate the patient's symptoms, therefore surgical management was indicated. The ossicle was excised, and a modified, double-ligament lateral ankle stabilization procedure was performed.