The variability of a method for clinical and functional assessment of the long-term results of surgical correction of idiopathic congenital talipes equino varus was studied in ten boys and four girls (average age: 19.1 (SD 2.3 years); 22 affected feet) with radiographical evidence of fusion of the foot and ankle ossification centres. Patients were measured twice, 1 week–1 month apart, by the same investigator and were assessed twice on each visit. Assessment included anthropometry, functional assessment and subjective functional evaluation. Calf circumference, skinfold thickness, foot length and width were highly reproducible. Foot length was not significantly influenced by the operation whereas calf circumference, skinfold thickness and foot width were. Although highly reproducible, hopping was not significantly affected by operation. Active and passive range of motion were significantly different. Each was highly reproducible and both were significantly affected by the operation. Patients reported a high and highly reproducible (within two points) functional level.

Scapho-trapezoid osteoarthritis may accompany osteoarthritis of the CM joint of the thumb. If the scapho-trapezoid joint is not excised when performing an excision of the trapezium with ligament reconstruction and interposition of the tendon of the FCR, the procedure may be unsuccessful. We describe three patients with four thumbs in which scapho-trapezoid osteoarthritis was associated with basal joint arthritis. In one patient, it was not recognized pre-operatively and persistent post-operative pain dictated further surgery. In the other patients, the scapho-trapezoid joint was excised primarily, with resolution of the pain. In the pre-operative assessment, the scapho-trapezoid joint should be carefully studied to prevent failure of the procedure.

A case of traumatic dislocation of the lateral sesamoid of flexor hallucis brevis tendon associated with metatarsal neck fractures due to a crush injury is reported. This patient was treated nonoperatively by elevation, application of plaster, and then free mobilisation. The patient has now fully recovered and remains completely asymptomatic despite residual sesamoid dislocation 1 year after the injury. The nonoperative management of this injury has not, to our knowledge, been reported previously.