Biomedical subjects
G T Vallier
Publications and source records attributed to G T Vallier.
Gait analysis in pediatric lower extremity amputees.
Walking function in 56 children with lower extremity amputations was assessed using a questionnaire and gait analysis. Children with prosthetic lower extremities can be very functional in society, often participating in sports. Limitations are proportional to the extent of the missing limbs. As a group, pediatric amputees walk more slowly than their normal peers with a slower cadence and a longer stride length. Pediatric amputees have higher heart rates when walking than normal children, but they seem willing to pay a higher physiologic price for ambulation.
The Keller resection arthroplasty: a 13-year experience.
The clinical results following Keller resection arthroplasty were reviewed in 54 feet with a 2- to 10-year follow-up. Patients were evaluated by radiographs, physical examination, and questionnaire. The primary indication for surgery was painful hallux valgus with associated degenerative changes of the first metatarsophalangeal joint. Additionally, rheumatoid arthritis was the underlying diagnosis in four feet. Seventy-five percent of all patients had complete relief of their symptoms. There was significant (P less than .01) improvement in both the metatarsophalangeal and intermetatarsal angles, but a decreased range of motion in the first metatarsophalangeal joint, with a complete lack of plantarflexion in 67%. Application of the Bonney and MacNab2 grading system yielded a 72% rate of good and excellent results. The subjective patient satisfaction rate was 87.5%. Patient satisfaction was most strongly associated with the use of a K-wire for postoperative fixation (P = .03), and a limited resection of the proximal phalanx (P = .03). We conclude that the Keller resection arthroplasty is a reasonable alternative for the treatment of hallux valgus in the presence of degenerative changes in the first metatarsophalangeal joint.