Prevalence of coexistent plantaris tendon pathology in patients with mid-portion achilles pathology: A retrospective MRI study

Co-existence of Plantaris tendinopathy (PT) in patients with mid-Achilles tendinopathy (Mid-AT) is of clinical significance. This study aims to describe the MRI-based pathological characteristics of co-existing PT and Mid-AT. One-hundred MRI studies of patients diagnosed with Mid-AT were retrospectively analysed by an experienced musculoskeletal radiologist. Presence or absence of a Plantaris tendon, co-existing PT with Mid-AT, insertional characteristics of Plantaris tendon, and maximum anteroposterior thickness of the tendon in Mid-AT (axial images) were evaluated. When PT co-existed with Mid-AT, the location of the tendon pathologies in relation to calcaneal insertion was assessed (sagittal images) and their association was analysed using the coefficient of variation (CV) and Pearson’s correlation coefficient. Plantaris was present in 84 cases (84%), and Mid-AT and PT co-existed in 10 cases (10%). A greater variability in the location of Plantaris pathology (CV = 42%) than Achilles tendinopathy (CV = 42%) was observed. The correlation coefficient also revealed a low and non-significant association between the location of two pathologies when they exist together (r = + 0.06, p = 0.88). Clinical evaluation of Achilles tendon pain needs careful consideration into the possible co-existence of Plantaris pathology. The considerable difference observed in the location of PT and Mid-AT suggest possible isolated pathologies and differentials for Achilles tendon pain

Outcome of Mears procedure for Sprengel’s deformity

Background: Sprengel′s shoulder is characterized by scapular maldescent and malposition, causing restriction of shoulder and cervical spine movements. It is associated with a variety of other congenital anomalies. Various surgical procedures have been described to treat this anomaly with no consensus as to the surgical procedure of choice. We report the results of the Mears procedure in the treatment of Sprengel′s shoulder. Materials and Methods: Seven children between the age group of two and six years were treated for Sprengel′s deformity, with omovertebral bar, and other congenital anomalies. The Cavendish score and Rigault radiological score were used to assess the severity of the deformity, and the position of the scapula relative to the cervical spine, respectively. The Mears procedure involved scapular osteotomy, par tial scapular excision, and release of a long head of triceps. Clavicular osteotomy was done only in two cases to decrease the risk of traction injury to the brachial plexus. Postoperatively, the patients were immobilized in a shoulder sling and range of motion exercises were started as early as possible. The patients were followed regularly at six weeks, three months and regularly at six-months interval. Results: The mean improvement in flexion and abduction was 45 ° (40 - 70 ° ) and 50 ° (40 - 70 ° ), respectively, which was the combined glenohumeral and thoracoscapular movement. The cosmetic and functional improvement by this procedure was acceptable to the patients. Minor scar hypertrophy was seen in two cases. Conclusion: The Mears procedure gives excellent cosmetic and functional results. This procedure addresses the functional aspect of the deformity and is much more acceptable to the patient and parents