1.
Allograft Bone: What Is the Role of Platelet-Derived Growth Factor in Hindfoot and Ankle Fusions.
Scott, RT, McAlister, JE, Rigby, RB
Clinics in podiatric medicine and surgery. 2018;(1):37-52
Abstract
Arthrodesis of the ankle or foot is a common procedure for chronic pain and disability. Nonunion remains a prevalent complication among arthrodesis procedures. Some patients present with an inherent risk of developing a nonunion. Allograft biologics have gained popularity in an effort to reduce complications such as nonunion. Various biologics bring unique properties while maintaining a singular purpose. Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) may be introduced into a fusion site to facilitate healthy bony consolidation. The purpose of this article is to review the benefits and modalities of PDGF and how it can improve patient outcomes in ankle and hindfoot fusions.
2.
Conservative treatment of asymmetric ankle osteoarthritis.
Schmid, T, Krause, FG
Foot and ankle clinics. 2013;(3):437-48
Abstract
This review article summarizes the currently available (poor) evidence of conservative treatment of asymmetric ankle osteoarthritis in the literature and adds the authors' experience with the particular technique. The use of dietary supplementation, viscosupplementation, platelet-rich plasma, nonsteroidal anti-inflammotory drugs, corticosteroid injections, physical therapy, shoe modifications and orthoses, and patient's education in asymmetric ankle osteoarthritis is outlined. There definitively is a place for conservative treatment with reasonable success in patients whose ankles do not qualify anymore for joint-preserving surgery and in patients with medical or orthopedic contraindications for realignment surgery, total ankle replacement, and ankle arthrodesis.
3.
Use of poly(ether ether ketone) cages in foot and ankle surgery.
NiƱo Gomez, D, Eslava, S, Federico, A, Diego, Y, Arrondo, G, Joannas, G
Foot and ankle clinics. 2012;(3):449-57
Abstract
PEEK cages are an effective alternative when structural bone graft is needed for different fusions around the foot and ankle. Bone fusion rates are high when PEEK cages are filled with autologous bone. No difference in consolidation time in patients was noticed between the cages fixed with staples and those fixed with cannulated screws. Nerve damage, residual pain at the donor site, and cosmetic problems are avoided with the use of PEEK cages. There is no risk of transmission of hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV when using PEEK cages.