The IoFix Experiment: Follow Up

Just a quick follow up from our previous blog on the Extremity Medical IoFix Implant and our first opportunity using the new implant. A few weeks ago, we wrote about our experience with the implant, The IoFix Experiment, and how satisfied we were with the bone purchase of the post and screws. In our patient with significant osteopenia, a 4-hole locking plate failed to stabilize the bone on her opposite foot. We chose to try this implant because of its inherent stability and the need for only two holes created in the bone rather than 4 with the plate. The idea of compressing the screw heads against the intramedullary post instead of applying it directly against the cortex of the bone is a no brainer.

4 weeks post-op, (at right) the patient is well consolidated with no pain on palpation or manipulation. The radiographs demonstrate good alignment of the arthrodesis site, no fixation failure or changes and signs of trabeculation across the fusion site.

We will slowly begin to progress to weightbearing over the next few weeks, (erring on the side of caution) although it appears clinically that she is now ready to start partial weightbearing. Using the IoFix implant was a nice change of pace from the standard fixes and in this case, has proven a good option to have in your bag of tricks. Inserting the implant does require a few extra steps than the standard screw, particularly involving the post insertion. Prepare for your Iofix case by watching (and perfecting) the insertion sequence here in The Fixation Network. Stay tuned for long term follow up.

1st MPJ Arthrodesis with Locking Plate Debate

Check out this debate / point-counterpoint discussion on the necessity of using a locking plate or not when performing a 1st MPJ arthrodesis. Found in Podiatry Today's upcoming June issue, the discussion is held between Dr. Patrick Deheer, DPM, FACFAS and Dr. Shannnon Rush, DPM FACFAS.

Whichever side of the discussion you fall on, locking plates or conventional methods of fixation, all of your various fixation options can be seen at www.footandanklefixation.com on the 1st MPJ arthrodesis page.

1st MPJ Arthrodesis with Locking Plate & Calcaneal Autograft

Dr. Glass is known for his exceptional foot and ankle animations and this one is no exception. Check out his latest animation on revisional 1st MPJ arthrodesis with calcaneal autograft and a locking plate. The animation demonstrates the application of a hypothetical locking plate and importance of stabilizing the autogenous graft with the locking screws.

This animation and other Dr. Glass videos can be found here at www.drglass.org/ 
Check out the 1st MPJ Arthrodesis Procedure Page for more fixation options including the current plating options.