Title : Differential forefoot radiographic markers in patients with unilateral typical muller-weiss disease or rheumatoid arthritis with muller-weissoid features
Abstract:
Background: The etiology and pathologic changes underlying Müller-Weiss disease (MWD) are not well understood. The objective of this study was to investigate the radiographic differences between the affected and unaffected feet in patients with unilateral MWD or Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) with Müller-Weissoid features.
Methods: Medical records and radiographs were retrospectively reviewed between 2008 to 2022 and patients with Müller-Weissoid features at Maceira stages 4 or higher were included. The involved and uninvolved feet of each patient were compared. A matched control group was included, consisting of patients with conventional flatfeet. Radiographic indices, such as the hallux valgus angle, intermetatarsal angles, metatarsus adductus angle, lateral talo-first metatarsal angles and length difference between the first and second metatarsus, were assessed. Demographic data was also analyzed.
Results: A total of 28 patients (25 women, 3 men) with a mean age of 64.9 years were included in the study. Among them, 14 patients had talonavicular arthritis associated with RA and Müller-Weissoid features. Statistically significant mean differences were observed between the affected and unaffected foot in terms of lower M1-M5A (p<0.001) and M1-M2A (p=0.016) in the affected foot. However, no significant differences were found in the metatarsus adductus angle or the length difference between the first and second metatarsus.
Conclusions: The present study revealed a significant reduction in forefoot divergence in the affected foot compared to the unaffected foot in patients with unilateral MWD or RA with Müller-Weissoid Features. Further research is warranted to investigate the evolution of various radiographic foot markers in accordance with the progress of the disease.
Keywords: Müller-Weiss disease, Forefoot divergence, Radiographic, Morphology
What will audience learn from your presentation?
Clinicians and Surgeons: They can apply the findings to improve diagnostic accuracy and treatment strategies for foot conditions, particularly in differentiating MWD and RA with Müller-Weissoid features from other forms of foot deformities.
Researchers: The study provides a basis for further investigation into the etiology and progression of MWD and RA with Müller-Weissoid features, possibly identifying new therapeutic targets or prognostic indicators.
Educators in Medical and Healthcare Fields: They can use the information to enhance the curriculum for students and residents, providing them with up-to-date knowledge on foot pathologies, radiographic assessment, and the significance of detailed morphological analysis.
Orthopedic Device Designers and Manufacturers: Insights into specific morphological changes can inform the design of orthopedic supports, custom footwear, and surgical tools tailored for patients with MWD or RA with Müller-Weissoid features, potentially improving patient outcomes and comfort.