Search Results
Background: Comparing the dynamic pedobarographic patterns of individuals is common practice in basic and applied research. However, this process is often time-consuming and complex, and commercially available software often lacks powerful visualization and interpretation tools.
Methods: We propose a simple method for displaying pixel-level pedobarographic deviations over time relative to a so-called reference pedobarographic pattern. This novel method contains four distinct automated preprocessing stages: 1) normalization of pedobarographic fields (for foot length and width), 2) temporal normalization, 3) a pixel-level z-score–based calculation, and 4) color coding of the normalized pedobarographic fields. Group and patient-level comparisons were illustrated using an experimental data set including diabetic and nondiabetic patients.
Results: The automated procedure was found to be robust and quantified distinct temporal deviations in pedobarographic fields.
Conclusions: The advantages of the novel method cover several domains, including visualization, interpretation, and education.
The implications of functional hallux limitus for lesser-metatarsal overload are discussed. A new method of treating functional hallux limitus is proposed, and three case histories are reviewed showing adequate resolution of symptoms using the proposed method of treatment. A proposed mechanism for the development of functional hallux limitus is discussed, and different methods of identification are illustrated. (J Am Podiatr Med Assoc 95(6): 593–601, 2005)
Triplanar distal osteotomy is a safe procedure for mild-to-moderate hallux valgus deformity. It allows shortening and plantar displacement of the first metatarsal while correcting the intermetatarsal angle. However, complications such as dorsiflexion and excessive shortening of the first metatarsal have been associated with distal osteotomy. We describe a new device, designed by one of the authors (P.R.), that enables precise positioning of the Kirschner guide wire for the osteotomy cuts. (J Am Podiatr Med Assoc 99(6): 536-540, 2009)
Addressing pressure reduction in the treatment of diabetic foot wounds is a critical component of therapy. The total-contact cast has proven to be the gold standard of treatment because of its ability to reduce pressure and facilitate patient adherence to the off-loading regimen. Removable cast walkers have proven to be as effective as total-contact casts in pressure reduction, but this has not translated into equivalent time to healing. A simple technique to convert the removable cast walker into a device that is not as easily detached from the lower extremity, thereby encouraging the use of this device over a 24-hour period, is presented in this article. The procedure involves wrapping the cast walker with cohesive bandage or plaster of Paris. In the authors’ opinion, this technique addresses many of the disadvantages of the total-contact cast, resulting in an adequate compromise in this aspect of care. (J Am Podiatr Med Assoc 92(7): 405-408, 2002)
It is important to have a full appreciation of lower-extremity anatomical relationships before undertaking diabetic foot surgery. We sought to evaluate the potential for communication of the flexor hallucis longus (FHL) tendon with other pedal tendons and plantar foot compartments at the master knot of Henry and to provide cadaveric images and computed tomographic (CT) scans of such communications. Computed tomography and subsequent anatomical dissection were performed on embalmed cadaveric limbs. Initially, 5 to 10 mL (1:4 dilution) of iohexol and normal saline was injected into the FHL sheath as it coursed between the two hallux sesamoids. Subsequently, CT scans were obtained in the axial plane using a multidetector CT scanner with sagittal and coronal reformatted images. The limbs were then dissected for specific evaluation of the known variable intertendinous connections between the FHL and flexor digitorum longus (FDL) and quadratus plantae (QP) muscles. One cadaver demonstrated retrograde flow of contrast into the four individual tendons of the FDL, with observation of a large intertendinous slip between the FHL and FDL on dissection. Another cadaver demonstrated contrast filling in the QP with an associated intertendinous slip between the FHL and QP on dissection. These results indicate that the master knot of Henry (the location in the plantar aspect of the midfoot where the FHL and FDL tendons decussate, with the FDL passing superficially over the FHL) has at least the potential to serve as one source of communication in diabetic foot infections from the medial plantar compartment and FHL to the central and lateral compartments via the FDL and to the rearfoot via the QP.
