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Dropfoot is a catchall term for ankle equinus, equinovarus, and equinovalgus. The deformity can be flexible or rigid and may be associated with other pathology. In the adult, dropfoot may be congenital or acquired. Acquired dropfoot results from weakness of the ankle dorsiflexors, overpull of the plantarflexors, contracture of the soft tissues, bony deformity, or any combination of these factors. Appropriate treatment includes observation, orthotic devices, bracing, tendon transfers, arthrodesis, and neurolysis. The purpose of this paper is to review the pathophysiology and treatment of acquired dropfoot.

Eight malnourished children with neuromuscular spinal deformity were treated with jejunostomy tubes for supplemental feeding to attain appropriate weight before reconstructive surgery. All patients had significant gastro-esophageal reflux and had failed to gain weight during an eight-month oral supplementation program. There were no complications associated with the placement or use of the jejunostomy feeding tubes and all patients gained weight in a safe and predictable fashion, had successful spinal fusion and have maintained satisfactory weight at follow-up. Jejunostomy feeding is a safe and effective method of correcting malnutrition in patients with spinal deformity which precludes gastrostomy and Nissen fundoplication.

Arthroscopy of the foot and ankle is a valuable tool for treating athletic foot injuries. The ability to evaluate and treat injuries without an extensive open approach is very important when dealing with the athletic population, allowing a much quicker rehabilitation and return to sport. The diagnostic and therapeutic indications for foot and ankle arthroscopy have increased significantly over recent years. Techniques and instrumentation have become more advanced and more readily available to the orthopaedist. This article defines the conditions in which arthroscopy is appropriate and presents current techniques for treatment.

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