In this issue we examine articles from the following journals: Clinics in Podiatric Medicine and Surgery and the reconstructive surgery journal, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. In addition, in the “critical analysis” section we’ll take a closer look at the specific topic of Variance Analysis as it applies to these articles.

There are several other articles in Clinics in Podiatric Medicine and Surgery that readers may find both beneficial and interesting. Ford and Hamilton review procedure selection for hallux abductovalgus deformity primarily from a functional, as opposed to radiographic, perspective. Blitz extensively reviews the “versatility” of the 1st metatarsal-cuneiform arthrodesis. And Belczyk et al provide insights into HAV-associated complications and revisional surgery.

There are also other articles in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery that readers may find both beneficial and interesting. Rosson et al measured in vivo intracompartmental pressures associated with surgical decompression of the tarsal tunnel, and provide data in support of extensive distal decompression of the medial plantar nerve tunnel, lateral plantar nerve tunnel, and intercompartmental septum. Manchio et al report on the duration of preoperative smoking cessation and its impact on skin flap survival in a rat model, and found that significant decreases in skin flap necrosis were not seen until 4 weeks of preoperative cessation. And as I’m always a sucker for a good pain management article, I recommend Franczyk et al’s article experimenting with topical lidocaine infiltration during negative pressure wound therapy dressing changes.

Your thought's and perspectives are welcome and encouraged...