L. de Palma

Anatomy and embryology of the talocalcaneal joint

Some aspects regarding the subtalar joint embryology, descriptive anatomy and microscopic anatomy of the various skeletal and capsulo-ligamentous components participating in forming and stabilising this joint are still controversial. In order to clarify these debated aspects, the present review was performed by a macroscopic and microscopic study of feet from embryos and fetuses. The present investigation highlights the subtalar joint as a peculiar single anatomo-functional entity due to its connections with the tibiotalar and Choparts joint and the peculiar anatomical features of the talus in which forces are transmitted to structures above and below.

Experimental Investigation into Reparative Osteogenesis with Fibrin Adhesive

SummaryAn experimental investigation was carried out in order to evaluate the effects of fibrin adhesive on the reparative osteogenesis of bone grafts in the short, medium, and long term. Sixty fully developed New Zealand White rabbits under general anesthesia were grafted with homologous bone tissue in the proximal third of each tibias. Fibrin adhesive was used in one hind limb only. The animals were killed at a predetermined time. Both tibias were removed and subjected to radiographic and histologic analyses. The reparative process was observed and the differences between the fibrin adhesive-treated grafts and the reference group in the first few weeks were determined. No substantial difference was detected in the reparative osteogenetic process of the graft in the animals killed after 2 months.

Validità del trattamento ortesico del piede piatto del bambino e dell’adulto

Foot orthoses (FOs) have been used for many years with the intention of alleviating symptoms, preventing deformity and enhancing performance especially in the treatment of childhood flat foot and acquired adulthood flat foot. However, most reasoning for their use is anecdotal, with a lack of scientific evidence and well-done clinical trials to support the claims many practitioners make. This lack of evidence will be one of the fundamental issues to confront foot science and the podiatric profession in the coming years. In future, orthopaedics and health government will rapidly move towards policies that support modalities backed up by evidence — in reality, this process has already begun. Without this evidence, debates and support for FOs, particularly more expensive forms of FOs, will be challenged and may be reviewed.