Joint sparing procedures include total ankle arthroplasty, distraction arthrodiastasis and allograft total ankle replacement. However, the gold standard is still ankle arthrodesis.

   Traditional exposure for ankle arthrodesis has been through the open transfibular approach. This approach usually involves a fibular takedown osteotomy but researchers have described a medial malleolar approach.¹ Unfortunately, this technique has the disadvantages of a larger skin incision that can lead to wound dehiscence and increased risk of postoperative infecti

Given the challenges of selecting appropriate empiric therapy with the rise of antibiotic resistance, these authors offer a review of the literature in regard to diabetic foot infections. They offer pertinent insights on infection severity, common pathogens and other factors in choosing the right agent.

   While antibiotic therapy for infection is typically empiric at the outset, making the right call is not easy. If physicians make a too narrow selection in terms of antibiotic coverage, they may miss the offending organism. Conversely, choosing a too broad antibiotic

Yes, Tom Chang, DPM cites recent advances in the use of autografts and allografts, and emphasizes that hyaline cartilage is more durable than fibrocartilage.

   The last few years have seen the introduction of evolving techniques for osteochondral defects for talar lesions. These techniques include the use of autografts and allografts in single plugs or mosaic patterns.

   Surgeons have utilized similar techniques for chondral defects in the metatarsal heads as well. The degenerative changes in patients with hallux valgus or hallux limitus can prese

   Achilles tendon problems have become more widespread with the increase in the number of adult athletes and an increase in the overall body mass index of patients. There have been many advances in the treatment of Achilles tendon problems with several improvements in conservative care, several so-called “overlap procedures” and multiple new surgical techniques.

   In order to understand Achilles issues, we first need to discuss the make-up of the Achilles tendon and the terminology of associated problems. The Achilles complex is made up of several sectio

NPWT Dressing Selection Made Easy

   When using negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) to facilitate wound healing, podiatrists may opt to use a new foam dressing kit.

   The new foam dressing kit, which is designed for use with Smith and Nephew’s NPWT devices, enables DPMs to have gauze and foam choices from one manufacturer, according to Smith and Nephew.

   Smith and Nephew adds that the dressing kit, a single use product, is available in four sizes. The company says the foam dressing kit is both clinically effective and