Annals of the Royal College of Surgeons of England
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In this article we look at the aetiology of plantar fasciitis, the other common differentials for heel pain and the evidence available to support each of the major management options. We also review the literature and discuss the condition. ⋯ Plantar fasciitis is a common and often disabling condition. Because the natural history of plantar fasciitis is not understood, it is difficult to distinguish between those patients who recover spontaneously and those who respond to formal treatment. Surgical release of the plantar fascia is effective in the small proportion of patients who do not respond to conservative measures. New techniques such as endoscopic plantar release and extracorporeal shockwave therapy may have a role but the limited availability of equipment and skills means that most patients will continue to be treated by more traditional techniques.
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Complex fracture dislocations of the midfoot are uncommon. Improved outcomes have been demonstrated where it has been possible to restore and maintain the length and alignment of the medial column as well as the congruity of the articular surfaces. We present our experience with the use of angle-stable locking plates in the stabilisation of complex midfoot fracture dislocations. ⋯ Angle-stable locking plates provide satisfactory stabilisation following ORIF of complex midfoot fracture dislocations. Most patients will require removal of the metalwork. Following removal of metalwork, the majority of patients will maintain the length, alignment and stability of the midfoot.
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Lateral humeral condyle fractures typically require a longer period of internal fixation than other distal humeral fractures due to the increased risk of non-union. K-wires can be buried and left in situ until union or they can be left unburied and require removal after four weeks, with plaster immobilisation until union. There is no consensus as to whether wire burial is preferable or not. The aim of this study was to determine whether K-wire burial is associated with more complications than non-buried wires in treating lateral condyle fractures of the elbow. ⋯ Wire erosion through the skin is the most common complication of K-wire burial. This may be due to the decrease in swelling after fracture fixation, making the wires more prominent under the skin. Skin integrity should be monitored closely if wires are buried.
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The aim of this study was to investigate whether definitive treatment of gallstone pancreatitis (GSP) by either cholecystectomy or endoscopic sphincterotomy in England conforms with British Society of Gastroenterology (BSG) guidelines and to validate these guidelines. ⋯ Following an attack of mild GSP, cholecystectomy should be offered to all patients prior to discharge. If patients are not fit for surgery, an endoscopic sphincterotomy should be performed as definitive treatment.