RISK FACTORS AT NON-UNION OF TIBIAL FRACTURE TREATED WITH INTRAMEDULLARY NAIL.

Objective: Identify the predictors associated with delayed union at 6 months and non-union at 12 months in tibial shaft fractures treated with intramedullary nailing (IMN). Methods: This retrospective longitudinal study included a cohort of 218 patients who sustained tibial shaft fractures and received IMN between January 2015 and March 2022. We gathered data on a range of risk factors, including patient demographics, trauma intensity, associated injuries, fracture characteristics, soft tissue injuries, comorbidities, addictions, and treatment-specific factors. We employed logistic bivariate regression analysis to explore the factors predictive of delayed union and non-union. Results: At the 6-month follow-up, the incidence of delayed union was 28.9%. Predictors for delayed union included flap coverage, high-energy trauma, open fractures, the use of external fixation as a staged treatment, the percentage of cortical contact in simple type fractures, RUST score, and postoperative infection. After 12 months, the non-union rate was 15.6%. Conclusion: the main predictors for non-union after IMN of tibial shaft fractures are related to the trauma energy. Furthermore, the initial treatment involving external fixation and postoperative infection also correlated with non-union. Level of Evidence III; Retrospective Longitudinal Study.

Objetivo: identificar os fatores preditivos associados ao atraso de consolidação em 6 meses e à não união em 12 meses em fraturas da diáfise da tíbia tratadas com haste intramedular (HIM). Métodos: O estudo longitudinal retrospectivo de coorte incluiu 218 pacientes, que apresentaram fraturas da díafise da tíbia e receberam HIM entre janeiro de 2015 e março de 2022. Os desfechos principais pesquisados foram atraso de consolidação em 6 meses de acompanhamento, e não união em 12 meses. Coletou-se dados de uma variedade de fatores de risco. Utilizou-se análise de regressão logística bivariada para explorar os fatores preditivos de atraso de consolidação e não união. Resultados: Aos 6 meses, a incidência de atraso de consolidação foi de 28,9%. Os preditores de atraso de consolidação incluem cobertura de retalho, trauma de alta energia, fraturas expostas, uso de fixação externa como tratamento estagiado, porcentagem de contato cortical em fraturas simples, escore RUST e infecção pós-operatória. Após 12 meses, a taxa de não união foi de 15,6%, com fatores preditivos sendo necessidade de cobertura por retalho, lesão vascular, trauma de alta energia, fraturas expostas, uso de fixação externa como tratamento estagiado, porcentagem de contato cortical em fraturas simples e infecção pós-operatória. Nível de Evidência III; Estudo Longitudinal Retrospectivo.

LOW INFECTION AND NON-UNION RATES IN POLYTRAUMA FEMORAL FRACTURES: A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY.

Objective: Assess complications and risks in staged femoral shaft fracture treatment using external fixation and intramedullary nailing (DCO). Methods: Analysis involved 37 patients with 40 fractures, mostly male (87.5%), average age 32.9 years. Data included ASA score, AO/OTA and Gustilo classifications, Glasgow Coma Score, Injury Severity Score, times to external fixation and conversion, ICU duration, nail type, and reaming status. Complications tracked were mortality, deep infection, and non-union. Results: Predominant fracture type was AO/OTA A (45%), with 40% open (Gustilo A, 93.8%). Average ISS was 21; GCS was 12.7. Median ICU stay was 3 days; average time to conversion was 10.2 days. Retrograde nails were used in 50% of cases, with reaming in 67.5%. Complications included deep infections in 5% and non-union in 2.5%. Conclusion: DCO strategy resulted in low infection and non-union rates, associated with lower GCS and longer ICU stays. Level of Evidence III; Retrospective Cohort Study.

Objetivo: Analisar taxa de complicações e riscos no tratamento estagiado de fraturas diafisárias do fêmur com fixador externo e conversão para haste intramedular (DCO). Métodos: Estudo com 37 pacientes, 35 masculinos, idade média de 32,9 anos, abordando escores ASA, classificação AO/OTA, Gustilo, Glasgow e ISS, tempo até a fixação externa, na UTI e tipo de haste. Complicações como mortalidade, infecção profunda e não união foram registradas. Resultados: Fraturas tipo AO/OTA A foram as mais comuns (45%), com 40% expostas (Gustilo A, 93,8%). ISS médio de 21 e ECG de 12,7. Média de 3 dias na UTI e 10,2 dias até a conversão. Uso de haste retrógrada em 50% dos casos e fresagem em 67,5%. As complicações incluíram infecção profunda em 5% e não união em 2,5%. A não união correlacionou-se com baixo ECG e tempo prolongado na UTI. Conclusão: A estratégia de DCO mostrou-se eficaz com baixas taxas de infecção e não união, associada a baixo ECG e tempo na UTI. Nível de Evidência III; Estudo de Coorte Retrospectivo.

Risk factors at non-union of tibial fracture treated with intramedullary nail / Fatores de risco para não-união da fratura de tíbia tratada com haste intramedular

ABSTRACT Objective: Identify the predictors associated with delayed union at 6 months and non-union at 12 months in tibial shaft fractures treated with intramedullary nailing (IMN). Methods: This retrospective longitudinal study included a cohort of 218 patients who sustained tibial shaft fractures and received IMN between January 2015 and March 2022. We gathered data on a range of risk factors, including patient demographics, trauma intensity, associated injuries, fracture characteristics, soft tissue injuries, comorbidities, addictions, and treatment-specific factors. We employed logistic bivariate regression analysis to explore the factors predictive of delayed union and non-union. Results: At the 6-month follow-up, the incidence of delayed union was 28.9%. Predictors for delayed union included flap coverage, high-energy trauma, open fractures, the use of external fixation as a staged treatment, the percentage of cortical contact in simple type fractures, RUST score, and postoperative infection. After 12 months, the non-union rate was 15.6%. Conclusion: the main predictors for non-union after IMN of tibial shaft fractures are related to the trauma energy. Furthermore, the initial treatment involving external fixation and postoperative infection also correlated with non-union. Level of Evidence III; Retrospective Longitudinal Study.

RESUMO Objetivo: identificar os fatores preditivos associados ao atraso de consolidação em 6 meses e à não união em 12 meses em fraturas da diáfise da tíbia tratadas com haste intramedular (HIM). Métodos: O estudo longitudinal retrospectivo de coorte incluiu 218 pacientes, que apresentaram fraturas da díafise da tíbia e receberam HIM entre janeiro de 2015 e março de 2022. Os desfechos principais pesquisados foram atraso de consolidação em 6 meses de acompanhamento, e não união em 12 meses. Coletou-se dados de uma variedade de fatores de risco. Utilizou-se análise de regressão logística bivariada para explorar os fatores preditivos de atraso de consolidação e não união. Resultados: Aos 6 meses, a incidência de atraso de consolidação foi de 28,9%. Os preditores de atraso de consolidação incluem cobertura de retalho, trauma de alta energia, fraturas expostas, uso de fixação externa como tratamento estagiado, porcentagem de contato cortical em fraturas simples, escore RUST e infecção pós-operatória. Após 12 meses, a taxa de não união foi de 15,6%, com fatores preditivos sendo necessidade de cobertura por retalho, lesão vascular, trauma de alta energia, fraturas expostas, uso de fixação externa como tratamento estagiado, porcentagem de contato cortical em fraturas simples e infecção pós-operatória. Nível de Evidência III; Estudo Longitudinal Retrospectivo.

Low infection and non-union rates in polytrauma femoral fractures: a retrospective study / Baixas taxas de infecção e não união em fraturas femorais em politraumatizados: um estudo retrospectivo

ABSTRACT Objective: Assess complications and risks in staged femoral shaft fracture treatment using external fixation and intramedullary nailing (DCO). Methods: Analysis involved 37 patients with 40 fractures, mostly male (87.5%), average age 32.9 years. Data included ASA score, AO/OTA and Gustilo classifications, Glasgow Coma Score, Injury Severity Score, times to external fixation and conversion, ICU duration, nail type, and reaming status. Complications tracked were mortality, deep infection, and non-union. Results: Predominant fracture type was AO/OTA A (45%), with 40% open (Gustilo A, 93.8%). Average ISS was 21; GCS was 12.7. Median ICU stay was 3 days; average time to conversion was 10.2 days. Retrograde nails were used in 50% of cases, with reaming in 67.5%. Complications included deep infections in 5% and non-union in 2.5%. Conclusion: DCO strategy resulted in low infection and non-union rates, associated with lower GCS and longer ICU stays. Level of Evidence III; Retrospective Cohort Study.

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar taxa de complicações e riscos no tratamento estagiado de fraturas diafisárias do fêmur com fixador externo e conversão para haste intramedular (DCO). Métodos: Estudo com 37 pacientes, 35 masculinos, idade média de 32,9 anos, abordando escores ASA, classificação AO/OTA, Gustilo, Glasgow e ISS, tempo até a fixação externa, na UTI e tipo de haste. Complicações como mortalidade, infecção profunda e não união foram registradas. Resultados: Fraturas tipo AO/OTA A foram as mais comuns (45%), com 40% expostas (Gustilo A, 93,8%). ISS médio de 21 e ECG de 12,7. Média de 3 dias na UTI e 10,2 dias até a conversão. Uso de haste retrógrada em 50% dos casos e fresagem em 67,5%. As complicações incluíram infecção profunda em 5% e não união em 2,5%. A não união correlacionou-se com baixo ECG e tempo prolongado na UTI. Conclusão: A estratégia de DCO mostrou-se eficaz com baixas taxas de infecção e não união, associada a baixo ECG e tempo na UTI. Nível de Evidência III; Estudo de Coorte Retrospectivo.

WEDGE FRAGMENT VARIATIONS OF TIBIAL SHAFT FRACTURES WITH INTRAMEDULLARY NAILING.

Introduction: Tibial shaft fracture is the most common long-bone fracture, and the standard treatment is intramedullary (IM) nail fixation. Regardless of the development of this technique pseudoarthrosis remains prevalent. Objectives: Evaluate the correlation between wedge fragment size and displacement, displacement of the main fragments of the 42B2 type, and pseudoarthrosis incidence. Methods: We retrospectively assessed all patients with 42B2 type fracture treated with IM nailing between January, 2015 and December, 2019. Six radiographic parameters were defined for preoperative radiographs in the anteroposterior (AP) and lateral views. Another six parameters were defined for postoperative radiographs at three, six, and 12 months. The Radiographic Union Score for Tibial Fractures score was used to assess bone healing. Results: Of 355 patients with tibial shaft fractures, 51 were included in the study. There were 41 (82.0%) male patients, with a mean age of 36.7 years, 37 (72.5%) had open fractures, and 28 (54.9%) had associated injuries. After statistical analysis, the factors that correlated significantly with nonunion were wedge height > 18 mm, preoperative translational displacement of the fracture in the AP view > 18 mm, and final distance of the wedge in relation to its original anatomical position after IM nailing > 5 mm. Conclusion: Risk factors for nonunion related to the wedge and42B2 fracture are wedge height > 18 mm, initial translation in the AP view of the fracture > 18 mm, and distance > 5 mm of the wedge from its anatomical position after IM nailing. Evidence level III; Retrospective comparative study .

Introdução: A fratura da diáfise da tíbia é a fratura mais comum dentre os ossos longos, sendo o tratamento padrão a fixação com haste intramedular (HIM). Independentemente do desenvolvimento da técnica cirúrgica, a pseudoartrose continua prevalente. Objetivo: Avaliar a associação entre o tamanho e o desvio da cunha, os desvios dos fragmentos principais do tipo 42B2 e a incidência de pseudoartrose. Métodos: Avaliamos, retrospectivamente, todos os pacientes com fraturas tipo 42B2 tratados com hastes intramedulares entre janeiro de 2015 e dezembro de 2019. Seis parâmetros radiográficos foram definidos para as radiografias pré-operatórias nas incidências anteroposterior (AP) e perfil. Outros seis parâmetros foram definidos para as radiografias pós-operatórias em 3, 6 e 12 meses de acompanhamento pós-operatório. O Escore Radiográfico de União para as Fraturas da Tíbia (RUST) foi o instrumento usado para avaliar a consolidação óssea. Resultados: Dos 355 pacientes com fraturas da diáfise da tíbia, 51 foram incluídos no estudo. Os pacientes incluídos foram 41 (82,0%) do sexo masculino, com idade média de 36,7 anos, 37 (72,5%) com fraturas expostas e 28 (54,9%) com lesões associadas. Após análise estatística, os fatores que se correlacionaram significativamente com a não consolidação foram a altura da cunha > 18 mm, o deslocamento translacional pré-operatório da fratura na incidência AP > 18 mm e a distância final da cunha em relação à sua posição anatômica original após a cravação do MI > 5 mm. Conclusão: Os fatores de risco para a pseudartrose relacionada com a fratura em cunha e42B2 são a altura da cunha > 18 mm, a translação inicial na vista AP da fratura > 18 mm e a distância > 5 mm da cunha em relação à sua posição anatómica após a fixação IM. Nível de evidência III; estudo comparativo retrospectivo. Nível de evidência III; Estudo retrospectivo comparativo .

Wedge fragment variations of tibial shaft fractures with intramedullary nailing / Fragmento em cunha das fraturas da diáfise da tíbia com haste intramedular

ABSTRACT Introduction: Tibial shaft fracture is the most common long-bone fracture, and the standard treatment is intramedullary (IM) nail fixation. Regardless of the development of this technique pseudoarthrosis remains prevalent. Objectives: Evaluate the correlation between wedge fragment size and displacement, displacement of the main fragments of the 42B2 type, and pseudoarthrosis incidence. Methods: We retrospectively assessed all patients with 42B2 type fracture treated with IM nailing between January, 2015 and December, 2019. Six radiographic parameters were defined for preoperative radiographs in the anteroposterior (AP) and lateral views. Another six parameters were defined for postoperative radiographs at three, six, and 12 months. The Radiographic Union Score for Tibial Fractures score was used to assess bone healing. Results: Of 355 patients with tibial shaft fractures, 51 were included in the study. There were 41 (82.0%) male patients, with a mean age of 36.7 years, 37 (72.5%) had open fractures, and 28 (54.9%) had associated injuries. After statistical analysis, the factors that correlated significantly with nonunion were wedge height > 18 mm, preoperative translational displacement of the fracture in the AP view > 18 mm, and final distance of the wedge in relation to its original anatomical position after IM nailing > 5 mm. Conclusion: Risk factors for nonunion related to the wedge and42B2 fracture are wedge height > 18 mm, initial translation in the AP view of the fracture > 18 mm, and distance > 5 mm of the wedge from its anatomical position after IM nailing. Evidence level III; Retrospective comparative study .

RESUMO Introdução: A fratura da diáfise da tíbia é a fratura mais comum dentre os ossos longos, sendo o tratamento padrão a fixação com haste intramedular (HIM). Independentemente do desenvolvimento da técnica cirúrgica, a pseudoartrose continua prevalente. Objetivo: Avaliar a associação entre o tamanho e o desvio da cunha, os desvios dos fragmentos principais do tipo 42B2 e a incidência de pseudoartrose. Métodos: Avaliamos, retrospectivamente, todos os pacientes com fraturas tipo 42B2 tratados com hastes intramedulares entre janeiro de 2015 e dezembro de 2019. Seis parâmetros radiográficos foram definidos para as radiografias pré-operatórias nas incidências anteroposterior (AP) e perfil. Outros seis parâmetros foram definidos para as radiografias pós-operatórias em 3, 6 e 12 meses de acompanhamento pós-operatório. O Escore Radiográfico de União para as Fraturas da Tíbia (RUST) foi o instrumento usado para avaliar a consolidação óssea. Resultados: Dos 355 pacientes com fraturas da diáfise da tíbia, 51 foram incluídos no estudo. Os pacientes incluídos foram 41 (82,0%) do sexo masculino, com idade média de 36,7 anos, 37 (72,5%) com fraturas expostas e 28 (54,9%) com lesões associadas. Após análise estatística, os fatores que se correlacionaram significativamente com a não consolidação foram a altura da cunha > 18 mm, o deslocamento translacional pré-operatório da fratura na incidência AP > 18 mm e a distância final da cunha em relação à sua posição anatômica original após a cravação do MI > 5 mm. Conclusão: Os fatores de risco para a pseudartrose relacionada com a fratura em cunha e42B2 são a altura da cunha > 18 mm, a translação inicial na vista AP da fratura > 18 mm e a distância > 5 mm da cunha em relação à sua posição anatómica após a fixação IM. Nível de evidência III; estudo comparativo retrospectivo. Nível de evidência III; Estudo retrospectivo comparativo .

DISTAL FEMORAL FRACTURES FROM HIGH-ENERGY TRAUMA: A RETROSPECTIVE REVIEW OF COMPLICATION RATE AND RISK FACTORS.

Objective: Determine complications' incidence and risk factors in high-energy distal femur fractures fixed with a lateral locked plate. Methods: Forty-seven patients were included; 87.2% were male, and the average age was 38.9. The main radiographic parameters collected were distal lateral femoral angle (DFA), distal posterior femoral angle (DPLF), comminution length, plate length, screw working length, bone loss, and medial contact after reduction and plate-bone contact, location of callus formation, and implant failure. The complications recorded were nonunion, implant failure, and infection. Results: Complex C2 and C3 fractures accounted for 85.1% of cases. Open fractures accounted for 63.8% of cases. The mean AFDL and AFDP were 79.8 4.0 and 79.3 6.0, respectively. The average total proximal and distal working lengths were 133.3 42.7, 60.4 33.4, and 29.5 21.8 mm, respectively. The infection rate was 29.8%, and the only risk factor was open fracture (p = 0.005). The nonunion rate was 19.1%, with longer working length (p = 0.035) and higher PDFA (p = 0.001) as risk factors. The site of callus formation also influenced pseudoarthrosis (p = 0.034). Conclusion: High-energy distal femoral fractures have a higher incidence of pseudoarthrosis and infection. Nonunion has greater working length, greater AFDL, and absence of callus formation on the medial and posterior sides as risk factors. The risk factor for infection was an open fracture. Level of Evidence III; Retrospective Cohort Study .

Objetivos: Determinar a incidência e os fatores de risco de complicações nas fraturas de alta energia das fraturas distais do fêmur fixadas com placa bloqueada lateral. Métodos: Foram incluídos 47 pacientes, sendo 87,2% homens e idade média de 38,9 anos. Os principais parâmetros radiográficos coletados foram o ângulo femoral distal lateral (AFDL), ângulo femoral distal posterior (AFDP), comprimento da cominuição, comprimento da placa, comprimento de trabalho dos parafusos, perda óssea, contato medial após a redução e contato placa-osso, localização da formação do calo e falha do implante. As complicações registradas foram não união, falha do implante e infecção. Resultados: Fraturas complexas C2 e C3 representaram 85,1% dos casos. As fraturas expostas corresponderam a 63,8% dos casos. O AFDL e AFDP médios foram 79,8° ± 4,0° e 79,3°± 6,0°, respectivamente. Os comprimentos de trabalho total, proximal e distal médios foram 133,3 ± 42,7, 60,4 ± 33,4 e 29,5 ± 21,8 mm, respectivamente. A taxa de infecção foi de 29,8% e o único fator de risco foi a fratura exposta (p = 0,005). A taxa de não união foi de 19,1%, com maior comprimento de trabalho (p = 0,035) e maior PDFA (p = 0,001) como fatores de risco. O local de formação do calo também influenciou na pseudoartrose (p = 0,034). Conclusões: Fraturas distais do fêmur de alta energia apresentam maior incidência de pseudoartrose e infecção. A não união tem como fatores de risco maior comprimento de trabalho, maior AFDL e ausência de formação de calo nos lados medial e posterior. O fator de risco para infecção foi a fratura exposta. Nível de evidência III; Estudo de Coorte Retrospectivo .

RADIOGRAPHIC EVALUATION OF IMMEDIATE LOADING SAFETY AFTER SURGICAL REDUCTION IN ACETABULAR FRACTURES: A COMPARATIVE-RETROSPECTIVE STUDY.

Objective: Radiographically evaluate the quality of reduction over six weeks of follow-up in patients with surgically treated deviated acetabular fractures who underwent rehabilitation with immediate loading as tolerated and compare this with the results of the unloaded protocol. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated the records of 137 patients with deviated acetabular fractures treated with open reduction and internal fixation. Sixty-six (48.2%) patients underwent postoperative rehabilitation with immediate loading as tolerated, while 71 (51.8%) patients completed rehabilitation using a no-load protocol. The quality of the reduction was assessed radiographically by measuring the fracturing step and gap on radiographs taken immediately after surgery and three and six weeks after surgery. Results: Comparing the joint step, group 1 had an average of 0.44 ± 1.4 mm, 0.47 ± 1.5 mm, and 0.51 ± 1.6 mm immediately, three and six weeks after surgery, respectively. Group 2 had a mean step of 0.24 ± 0.8 mm, 0.27 ± 0.9 mm, and 0.37 ± 1.2 mm immediately, three, and six weeks after surgery. No statistically significant differences were observed between the groups. With a joint gap, group 1 had a mean of 1.89 ± 1.7 mm, 2.12 ± 1.8 mm, and 2.36 ± 2.1 mm; and group 2 had a mean of 2.16 ± 2.4 mm, 2.47 ± 2.6 mm, and 2.67 ± 2.8 mm in the immediate postoperative period, three, and six weeks, respectively. There was also no statistical difference between groups in these measurements. Conclusion: Immediate loading after surgical treatment of deviated acetabular fracture had no negative impact on radiographic reduction parameters and had similar results to the protocol without weight bearing. Level of evidence III; Therapeutic Retrospective Cohort Study .

Objetivo: Avaliar radiograficamente a qualidade da redução ao longo de 6 semanas de acompanhamento em pacientes com fratura desviada do acetábulo tratados cirurgicamente e submetidos à reabilitação com carga imediata conforme tolerado e comparar com os resultados do protocolo sem carga. Métodos: Avaliamos retrospectivamente os prontuários de 137 pacientes com fraturas desviadas do acetábulo que foram tratadas com redução aberta e fixação interna. Sessenta e seis (48,2%) pacientes foram submetidos à reabilitação pós-operatória com carga imediata conforme tolerado, enquanto 71 (51,8%) pacientes completaram a reabilitação utilizando um protocolo sem carga. A qualidade da redução foi avaliada radiograficamente pela medição do degrau da fratura e do gap nas radiografias feitas imediatamente após a cirurgia e três e seis semanas após a cirurgia. Resultados: Comparando o degrau articular, o grupo 1 teve uma média de 0,44 ± 1,4 mm, 0,47 ± 1,5 mm e 0,51 ± 1,6 mm imediatamente, três e seis semanas após a cirurgia, respectivamente. O grupo 2 teve um degrau médio de 0,24 ± 0,8 mm, 0,27 ± 0,9 mm e 0,37 ± 1,2 mm imediatamente, três e seis semanas após a cirurgia. Não foram observadas diferenças estatísticas significantes entre os grupos. Com gap articular, o grupo 1 teve uma média de 1,89 ± 1,7 mm, 2,12 ± 1,8 mm e 2,36 ± 2,1 mm; e o grupo 2 de 2,16 ± 2,4 mm, 2,47 ± 2,6 mm e 2,67 ± 2,8 mm nos pós-operatório imediato, três e seis semanas, respectivamente. Também não houve diferença estatística entre os grupos nessas medidas. Conclusão: A carga imediata após o tratamento cirúrgico da fratura do acetábulo desviada não teve impacto negativo nos parâmetros de redução radiográfica e teve resultados semelhantes em comparação com o protocolo sem descarga de peso. Nível De Evidência III; Estudo Terapêutico de Coorte Retrospectivo .

Isolated open tibial shaft fracture: a seven-hospital, prospective observational study in two Latin America countries.

INTRODUCTION: open tibial fractures are challenging due to the frequent severe bone injury associated with poor soft tissue conditions. This is relevant in low- and middle-income countries, mainly related to delayed definitive fixation and lack of adequate training in soft tissue coverage procedures. Due to these factors, open tibial fracture is an important source of disability for Latin American countries. Herein we sought to provide an epidemiological overview of isolated open tibial shaft fracture across seven hospitals in southern cone of Latin America. The secondary goal was to assess the impact on quality of life based on return-to-work rate (RWR). METHODS: patients with an isolated open tibial shaft fracture treated in seven different hospitals from Brazil and Argentina from November 2017 to March 2020 were included in the study. Clinical and radiographic results were evaluated throughout the 120-day follow-up period. Final evaluation compared RWR with the SF-12 questionnaire, bone healing, and gait status. RESULTS: Seventy-two patients were treated, 57 followed for 120 days and 48 completed the SF-12 questionnaire. After 120 days, 70.6% had returned to work, 61.4% had experienced bone healing. Age, antibiotic therapy, type of definitive treatment, and infection significantly influenced the RWR. Gait status exhibited strong correlations with RWR and SF-12 physical component score. CONCLUSIONS: Isolated open tibial shaft fractures are potentially harmful to the patient's quality of life after 120 days of the initial management. RWR is significantly higher for younger patients, no history of infection, and those who could run in the gait status assessment.

Pre-operative predictors of poor reduction in acetabular fractures submitted to surgical treatment.

INTRODUCTION: Acetabular fractures are among the most complex orthopedic injuries, and their treatment and understanding have evolved remarkably in the last 50 years. Several factors affect the reduction quality of the surgically treated displaced acetabular fractures. Thus, this study aimed to identify these factors by analyzing patients' data. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Retrospective data from fractures operated in one center over 8 years were analyzed. Patients with a mature skeleton who underwent open reduction and internal fixation and had a minimum follow-up period of 6 weeks were included. Non-displaced fractures were excluded from the study. Radiographic assessment of the reduction was performed before surgery and at follow-up using the method described by Borelli et al. The effects of age (<40 or >40 years), sex, initial displacement (< 20 mm or > 20 mm), time to surgery (<14 days or>14 days), fracture pattern (elementary or associated), number of associated fractures (< 3 or > 3), and associated pelvic injury were analyzed RESULTS: The study included 115 (83.9%) men and 22 (16.1%) women, with a mean age of 34.1 years (range 16-74 years). In the sixth week of follow-up, reductions were satisfactory in 96 (70.7%) patients and unsatisfactory in 41 (29.3%). The most prevalent patterns were the posterior wall (23.1%) and both column (15.7%). Linear regression showed that residual displacement was directly correlated with initial displacement (p = 0.027) but without association with reduction quality. Age, sex, and initial displacement had no effect on reduction quality, which is in contrast with longer time to surgery (p = 0.004), associated fracture pattern (p = 0.002), three or more associated fractures (p = 0.001), and presence of associated pelvic injury (p = 0.021). CONCLUSION: Attempting to shorten the time to operate the fractures can lead to better results for patients because the other factors associated with poor reduction are inherent the trauma and cannot be modified by the surgeon.

Distal femoral fractures from high-energy trauma: a retrospective review of complication rate and risk factors / Fraturas distais do fêmur por trauma de alta energia: uma revisão retrospectiva da taxa de complicações e fatores de risco

ABSTRACT Objective Determine complications' incidence and risk factors in high-energy distal femur fractures fixed with a lateral locked plate. Methods Forty-seven patients were included; 87.2% were male, and the average age was 38.9. The main radiographic parameters collected were distal lateral femoral angle (DFA), distal posterior femoral angle (DPLF), comminution length, plate length, screw working length, bone loss, and medial contact after reduction and plate-bone contact, location of callus formation, and implant failure. The complications recorded were nonunion, implant failure, and infection. Results Complex C2 and C3 fractures accounted for 85.1% of cases. Open fractures accounted for 63.8% of cases. The mean AFDL and AFDP were 79.8 4.0 and 79.3 6.0, respectively. The average total proximal and distal working lengths were 133.3 42.7, 60.4 33.4, and 29.5 21.8 mm, respectively. The infection rate was 29.8%, and the only risk factor was open fracture (p = 0.005). The nonunion rate was 19.1%, with longer working length (p = 0.035) and higher PDFA (p = 0.001) as risk factors. The site of callus formation also influenced pseudoarthrosis (p = 0.034). Conclusion High-energy distal femoral fractures have a higher incidence of pseudoarthrosis and infection. Nonunion has greater working length, greater AFDL, and absence of callus formation on the medial and posterior sides as risk factors. The risk factor for infection was an open fracture. Level of Evidence III; Retrospective Cohort Study.

RESUMO Objetivos Determinar a incidência e os fatores de risco de complicações nas fraturas de alta energia das fraturas distais do fêmur fixadas com placa bloqueada lateral. Métodos Foram incluídos 47 pacientes, sendo 87,2% homens e idade média de 38,9 anos. Os principais parâmetros radiográficos coletados foram o ângulo femoral distal lateral (AFDL), ângulo femoral distal posterior (AFDP), comprimento da cominuição, comprimento da placa, comprimento de trabalho dos parafusos, perda óssea, contato medial após a redução e contato placa-osso, localização da formação do calo e falha do implante. As complicações registradas foram não união, falha do implante e infecção. Resultados Fraturas complexas C2 e C3 representaram 85,1% dos casos. As fraturas expostas corresponderam a 63,8% dos casos. O AFDL e AFDP médios foram 79,8° ± 4,0° e 79,3°± 6,0°, respectivamente. Os comprimentos de trabalho total, proximal e distal médios foram 133,3 ± 42,7, 60,4 ± 33,4 e 29,5 ± 21,8 mm, respectivamente. A taxa de infecção foi de 29,8% e o único fator de risco foi a fratura exposta (p = 0,005). A taxa de não união foi de 19,1%, com maior comprimento de trabalho (p = 0,035) e maior PDFA (p = 0,001) como fatores de risco. O local de formação do calo também influenciou na pseudoartrose (p = 0,034). Conclusões Fraturas distais do fêmur de alta energia apresentam maior incidência de pseudoartrose e infecção. A não união tem como fatores de risco maior comprimento de trabalho, maior AFDL e ausência de formação de calo nos lados medial e posterior. O fator de risco para infecção foi a fratura exposta. Nível de evidência III; Estudo de Coorte Retrospectivo.

Radiographic evaluation of immediate loading safety after surgical reduction in acetabular fractures: a comparative-retrospective study / Avaliação radiográfica da segurança na carga imediata após redução cirúrgica em fraturas acetabulares: estudo comparativo-retrospectivo

ABSTRACT Objective Radiographically evaluate the quality of reduction over six weeks of follow-up in patients with surgically treated deviated acetabular fractures who underwent rehabilitation with immediate loading as tolerated and compare this with the results of the unloaded protocol. Methods We retrospectively evaluated the records of 137 patients with deviated acetabular fractures treated with open reduction and internal fixation. Sixty-six (48.2%) patients underwent postoperative rehabilitation with immediate loading as tolerated, while 71 (51.8%) patients completed rehabilitation using a no-load protocol. The quality of the reduction was assessed radiographically by measuring the fracturing step and gap on radiographs taken immediately after surgery and three and six weeks after surgery. Results Comparing the joint step, group 1 had an average of 0.44 ± 1.4 mm, 0.47 ± 1.5 mm, and 0.51 ± 1.6 mm immediately, three and six weeks after surgery, respectively. Group 2 had a mean step of 0.24 ± 0.8 mm, 0.27 ± 0.9 mm, and 0.37 ± 1.2 mm immediately, three, and six weeks after surgery. No statistically significant differences were observed between the groups. With a joint gap, group 1 had a mean of 1.89 ± 1.7 mm, 2.12 ± 1.8 mm, and 2.36 ± 2.1 mm; and group 2 had a mean of 2.16 ± 2.4 mm, 2.47 ± 2.6 mm, and 2.67 ± 2.8 mm in the immediate postoperative period, three, and six weeks, respectively. There was also no statistical difference between groups in these measurements. Conclusion Immediate loading after surgical treatment of deviated acetabular fracture had no negative impact on radiographic reduction parameters and had similar results to the protocol without weight bearing. Level of evidence III; Therapeutic Retrospective Cohort Study.

RESUMO Objetivo Avaliar radiograficamente a qualidade da redução ao longo de 6 semanas de acompanhamento em pacientes com fratura desviada do acetábulo tratados cirurgicamente e submetidos à reabilitação com carga imediata conforme tolerado e comparar com os resultados do protocolo sem carga. Métodos Avaliamos retrospectivamente os prontuários de 137 pacientes com fraturas desviadas do acetábulo que foram tratadas com redução aberta e fixação interna. Sessenta e seis (48,2%) pacientes foram submetidos à reabilitação pós-operatória com carga imediata conforme tolerado, enquanto 71 (51,8%) pacientes completaram a reabilitação utilizando um protocolo sem carga. A qualidade da redução foi avaliada radiograficamente pela medição do degrau da fratura e do gap nas radiografias feitas imediatamente após a cirurgia e três e seis semanas após a cirurgia. Resultados Comparando o degrau articular, o grupo 1 teve uma média de 0,44 ± 1,4 mm, 0,47 ± 1,5 mm e 0,51 ± 1,6 mm imediatamente, três e seis semanas após a cirurgia, respectivamente. O grupo 2 teve um degrau médio de 0,24 ± 0,8 mm, 0,27 ± 0,9 mm e 0,37 ± 1,2 mm imediatamente, três e seis semanas após a cirurgia. Não foram observadas diferenças estatísticas significantes entre os grupos. Com gap articular, o grupo 1 teve uma média de 1,89 ± 1,7 mm, 2,12 ± 1,8 mm e 2,36 ± 2,1 mm; e o grupo 2 de 2,16 ± 2,4 mm, 2,47 ± 2,6 mm e 2,67 ± 2,8 mm nos pós-operatório imediato, três e seis semanas, respectivamente. Também não houve diferença estatística entre os grupos nessas medidas. Conclusão A carga imediata após o tratamento cirúrgico da fratura do acetábulo desviada não teve impacto negativo nos parâmetros de redução radiográfica e teve resultados semelhantes em comparação com o protocolo sem descarga de peso. Nível De Evidência III; Estudo Terapêutico de Coorte Retrospectivo.

Isolated open tibial shaft fracture: a seven-hospital, prospective observational study in two Latin America countries / Fraturas expostas isoladas da diáfise da tíbia: estudo prospectivo observacional em sete hospitais de dois países da América Latina

ABSTRACT Introduction: open tibial fractures are challenging due to the frequent severe bone injury associated with poor soft tissue conditions. This is relevant in low- and middle-income countries, mainly related to delayed definitive fixation and lack of adequate training in soft tissue coverage procedures. Due to these factors, open tibial fracture is an important source of disability for Latin American countries. Herein we sought to provide an epidemiological overview of isolated open tibial shaft fracture across seven hospitals in southern cone of Latin America. The secondary goal was to assess the impact on quality of life based on return-to-work rate (RWR). Methods: patients with an isolated open tibial shaft fracture treated in seven different hospitals from Brazil and Argentina from November 2017 to March 2020 were included in the study. Clinical and radiographic results were evaluated throughout the 120-day follow-up period. Final evaluation compared RWR with the SF-12 questionnaire, bone healing, and gait status. Results: Seventy-two patients were treated, 57 followed for 120 days and 48 completed the SF-12 questionnaire. After 120 days, 70.6% had returned to work, 61.4% had experienced bone healing. Age, antibiotic therapy, type of definitive treatment, and infection significantly influenced the RWR. Gait status exhibited strong correlations with RWR and SF-12 physical component score. Conclusions: Isolated open tibial shaft fractures are potentially harmful to the patient's quality of life after 120 days of the initial management. RWR is significantly higher for younger patients, no history of infection, and those who could run in the gait status assessment.

RESUMO Introdução: o tratamento de fraturas expostas isoladas da diáfise da tíbia (FEIDT) apresenta desafios por frequentemente associar severa lesão óssea com condições ruins de tecido mole, fatores relevantes em países de média e baixa renda, especialmente devido a atrasos na implementação da fixação definitiva e falta de treinamento adequado no manejo de tecidos moles. Consequentemente, FEIDTs representam importante fonte de incapacitação na América Latina. Este estudo objetivou apresentar uma visão geral das FEIDTs em sete hospitais do cone sul da América Latina. O objetivo secundário foi avaliar o seu impacto na qualidade de vida baseado na taxa de retorno ao trabalho (TRT). Métodos: foram incluídos no estudo pacientes com FEIDT tratados em sete hospitais de Brasil e Argentina entre novembro de 2017 e março de 2020. Resultados clínicos e radiográficos foram analisados num período de 120 dias. Avaliação final comparou TRT com o questionário SF-12, consolidação óssea e condições de marcha. Resultados: setenta e dois pacientes foram tratados, 57 seguidos por 120 dias e 48 completaram o questionário SF-12. Após 120 dias, 70,6% havia retornado ao trabalho, 61,4% tinha fratura consolidada. Idade, antibioticoterapia, tipo de tratamento definitivo e infecção influenciaram significativamente na TRT. A condição de marcha apresentou forte correlação com TRT e o componente físico do SF-12. Conclusão: FEIDTs são potencialmente deletérias à qualidade de vida dos pacientes 120 dias após o tratamento inicial. TRT é significativamente maior para pacientes mais jovens, sem história de infecção e que conseguem correr na avaliação da condição de marcha..

Bioactive glass S53P4 to fill-up large cavitary bone defect after acute and chronic osteomyelitis treated with antibiotic-loaded cement beads: A prospective case series with a minimum 2-year follow-up.

INTRODUCTION: Bioactive glass S53P4 (BAG-S53P4) has been used in the treatment of osteomyelitis with excellent results. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiographic results of patients treated with use of antibiotic-loaded cement beads, followed by bone defects filling using bioglass. METHODS: We treated a prospective series of patients presenting with acute or chronic osteomyelitis of a long bone of the upper or lower limb. The first-stage procedure involved debridement and filling of cavitary defects with antibiotic-loaded polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) beads. When signs of infection subsided, the defects were filled with BAG-S53P4. The main outcomes assessed were the reinfection rate, need for reoperation, radiographic and functional evaluations (DASH and Lysholm scores). RESULTS: Ten patients were included, aged between 4 and 66 years (mean 25.4 years). The source of infection was hematogenic in five cases and post-traumatic in the other five. Hematogenic infections required two debridements before filling with bioglass, whereas post-traumatic cases required only one. The time between the first debridement and the application of bioglass varied from 1 to 63 weeks (average of 17 weeks). All patients showed a favorable evolution after bioglass procedure, with no need for reoperation or relevant wound problems. The radiographic evaluation showed partial incorporation of the material and adequate bone formation, and functional scores were satisfactory in all cases. CONCLUSION: The treatment of osteomyelitis with surgical debridement and PMMA beads, followed by filling of bone defect with BAG-S53P4, was effective in all patients evaluated, with adequate infectious control and bone regeneration. No cases required reoperation after bioglass implantation. Patients with hematogenous osteomyelitis required a greater number of debridements before filling with bioglass.

VALIDITY AND RELIABILITY OF THE MANCHESTER SCALE USED IN THE ORTHOPEDIC EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT.

OBJECTIVES: To describe the clinical utility of the Manchester triage scale adapted for orthopedic emergency departments and to evaluate its validity in identifying patients with the need for hospital care and its reliability when reproduced by different professionals. METHODS: Five triage flowcharts were developed based on the Manchester scale for the following orthopedic disorders: traumatic injuries, joint pain, vertebral pain, postoperative disorders, and musculoskeletal infections. A series of patients triaged by two orthopedists was analyzed to assess the concordance between the evaluators (reliability) and the validity of the Manchester scale as predictive of severity. RESULTS: The reliability analysis included 231 patients, with an inter-observer agreement of 84% (Kappa = 0.77, p <0.001). The validity analysis included 138 patients. The risk category had a strong association with the need for hospital care in patients with trauma (OR = 6.57, p = 0.001) and was not significant for non-traumatic disorders (OR = 2.42; p = 0.208). The overall sensitivity and specificity were 64% and 76%, respectively. CONCLUSION: The evaluated system presented high reliability. Its validity was adequate, with good sensitivity for identifying patients requiring hospital care among those with traumatic lesions. However, the sensitivity was low for patients with non-traumatic lesions. Level of Evidence III, Retrospective Study.

OBJETIVOS: Descrever a utilização clínica da escala de triagem de Manchester adaptada ao pronto-socorro ortopédico e avaliar sua validade para detectar pacientes com necessidade de cuidados hospitalares e sua confiabilidade quando reproduzida por diferentes profissionais. MÉTODOS: Cinco fluxogramas de triagem foram desenvolvidos com base na escala de Manchester: lesões traumáticas, dor articular, dor vertebral, transtorno pós-operatório e infecção musculoesquelética. Uma série de pacientes triados por dois ortopedistas foi analisada para avaliação da concordância entre os avaliadores (confiabilidade) e sua validade como preditivo de gravidade. RESULTADOS: A avaliação da confiabilidade incluiu 231 pacientes, com concordância inter-observadores de 84% (Kappa = 0,77; p <0,001). A análise da validade incluiu 138 pacientes. A classificação de risco apresentou forte associação com a necessidade de cuidados hospitalares em pacientes com trauma (OR = 6,57; p = 0,001), não sendo significativa nos transtornos não-traumáticos (OR = 2,42; p = 0,208). A sensibilidade geral foi de 64% e a especificidade de 76%. CONCLUSÃO: O sistema avaliado apresentou alta confiabilidade. Sua validade foi adequada, com boa sensibilidade para detectar pacientes com necessidade de procedimentos hospitalares em lesões traumáticas, enquanto a sensibilidade foi baixa em pacientes com lesões não-traumáticas. Nível de Evidência III, Estudo Retrospectivo.

Validity and reliability of the manchester scale used in the orthopedic emergency department / Validade e confiabilidade da escala de manchester aplicada no pronto-socorro ortopédico

ABSTRACT Objectives: To describe the clinical utility of the Manchester triage scale adapted for orthopedic emergency departments and to evaluate its validity in identifying patients with the need for hospital care and its reliability when reproduced by different professionals. Methods: Five triage flowcharts were developed based on the Manchester scale for the following orthopedic disorders: traumatic injuries, joint pain, vertebral pain, postoperative disorders, and musculoskeletal infections. A series of patients triaged by two orthopedists was analyzed to assess the concordance between the evaluators (reliability) and the validity of the Manchester scale as predictive of severity. Results: The reliability analysis included 231 patients, with an inter-observer agreement of 84% (Kappa = 0.77, p <0.001). The validity analysis included 138 patients. The risk category had a strong association with the need for hospital care in patients with trauma (OR = 6.57, p = 0.001) and was not significant for non-traumatic disorders (OR = 2.42; p = 0.208). The overall sensitivity and specificity were 64% and 76%, respectively. Conclusion: The evaluated system presented high reliability. Its validity was adequate, with good sensitivity for identifying patients requiring hospital care among those with traumatic lesions. However, the sensitivity was low for patients with non-traumatic lesions. Level of Evidence III, Retrospective Study.

RESUMO Objetivos: Descrever a utilização clínica da escala de triagem de Manchester adaptada ao pronto-socorro ortopédico e avaliar sua validade para detectar pacientes com necessidade de cuidados hospitalares e sua confiabilidade quando reproduzida por diferentes profissionais. Métodos: Cinco fluxogramas de triagem foram desenvolvidos com base na escala de Manchester: lesões traumáticas, dor articular, dor vertebral, transtorno pós-operatório e infecção musculoesquelética. Uma série de pacientes triados por dois ortopedistas foi analisada para avaliação da concordância entre os avaliadores (confiabilidade) e sua validade como preditivo de gravidade. Resultados: A avaliação da confiabilidade incluiu 231 pacientes, com concordância inter-observadores de 84% (Kappa = 0,77; p <0,001). A análise da validade incluiu 138 pacientes. A classificação de risco apresentou forte associação com a necessidade de cuidados hospitalares em pacientes com trauma (OR = 6,57; p = 0,001), não sendo significativa nos transtornos não-traumáticos (OR = 2,42; p = 0,208). A sensibilidade geral foi de 64% e a especificidade de 76%. Conclusão: O sistema avaliado apresentou alta confiabilidade. Sua validade foi adequada, com boa sensibilidade para detectar pacientes com necessidade de procedimentos hospitalares em lesões traumáticas, enquanto a sensibilidade foi baixa em pacientes com lesões não-traumáticas. Nível de Evidência III, Estudo Retrospectivo.

A new low-cost negative-pressure wound therapy versus a commercially available therapy device widely used to treat complex traumatic injuries: a prospective, randomized, non-inferiority trial

OBJECTIVES: Negative-pressure wound therapy has been widely adopted to reduce the complexity of treating a broad range of acute and chronic wounds. However, its cost is high. The objective of this study was to evaluate the following two different methods of negative-pressure wound therapy in terms of healing time: a low-cost method of negative-pressure wound therapy (a pressure stabilizer device connected to a hospital wall-vacuum system with a gauze-sealed dressing, USP) and the standard of care (vacuum-assisted closure, VAC). METHODS: This is a randomized, controlled, non-inferiority, unblinded trial. Patients admitted with complex injuries to a trauma center in a public referral hospital who were indicated for orthopedic surgery were randomized to a USP or VAC group. The primary outcome was the time required to achieve a "ready for surgery condition", which was defined as a wound bed with healthy granulation tissue and without necrosis or purulent secretion. Wound bed area contraction, granulation tissue growth and the direct costs of the dressings were secondary outcomes. RESULTS: Variation in area and granulation tissue growth were essentially the same between the systems, and healing time was equal between the groups (p=0.379). In both systems, serial debridement increased wound area (p=0.934), and granulation tissue was also increased (p=0.408). The mean treatment cost was US$ 15.15 in the USP group and US$ 872.59 in the VAC group. CONCLUSIONS: For treating complex traumatic injuries, USP was non-inferior to and less expensive than VAC.

A new low-cost negative-pressure wound therapy versus a commercially available therapy device widely used to treat complex traumatic injuries: a prospective, randomized, non-inferiority trial.

OBJECTIVES: Negative-pressure wound therapy has been widely adopted to reduce the complexity of treating a broad range of acute and chronic wounds. However, its cost is high. The objective of this study was to evaluate the following two different methods of negative-pressure wound therapy in terms of healing time: a low-cost method of negative-pressure wound therapy (a pressure stabilizer device connected to a hospital wall-vacuum system with a gauze-sealed dressing, USP) and the standard of care (vacuum-assisted closure, VAC). METHODS: This is a randomized, controlled, non-inferiority, unblinded trial. Patients admitted with complex injuries to a trauma center in a public referral hospital who were indicated for orthopedic surgery were randomized to a USP or VAC group. The primary outcome was the time required to achieve a "ready for surgery condition", which was defined as a wound bed with healthy granulation tissue and without necrosis or purulent secretion. Wound bed area contraction, granulation tissue growth and the direct costs of the dressings were secondary outcomes. RESULTS: Variation in area and granulation tissue growth were essentially the same between the systems, and healing time was equal between the groups (p=0.379). In both systems, serial debridement increased wound area (p=0.934), and granulation tissue was also increased (p=0.408). The mean treatment cost was US$ 15.15 in the USP group and US$ 872.59 in the VAC group. CONCLUSIONS: For treating complex traumatic injuries, USP was non-inferior to and less expensive than VAC.

Comparison of total hip arthroplasty in osteoarthritis of mechanical and rheumatologic causes.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the use of uncemented implants in total hip arthroplasty in patients with rheumathologic diseases and mechanical osteoarthrosis. METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated 196 patients who were operated by the Hip and Arthroplasty Surgery Group of the IOT-HCFMUSP between 2005 and 2009. Patients were divided into two groups: mechanical causes (165 patients) and rheumathologic causes (31 patients). Groups were compared between each other in age, gender and follow-up time. Osseointegration rate and percentage of failure in arthroplasty were evaluated. RESULTS: No statistically significant difference was found in osseointegration rates (in both femoral and acetabular components) in both groups. The rates of revision surgery and implant survival also did not show statistically significant differences. CONCLUSION: The use of uncemented total hip arthroplasty did not show worse results in rheumathologic patients. Level of Evidence III, Retrospective Case Control Study.

Comparison of total hip arthroplasty in osteoarthritis of mechanical and rheumatologic causes

Objective: To compare the use of uncemented implants in total hip arthroplasty in patients with rheumathologic diseases and mechanical osteoarthrosis. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated 196 patients who were operated by the Hip and Arthroplasty Surgery Group of the IOT-HCFMUSP between 2005 and 2009. Patients were divided into two groups: mechanical causes (165 patients) and rheumathologic causes (31 patients). Groups were compared between each other in age, gender and follow-up time. Osseointegration rate and percentage of failure in arthroplasty were evaluated. Results: No statistically significant difference was found in osseointegration rates (in both femoral and acetabular components) in both groups. The rates of revision surgery and implant survival also did not show statistically significant differences. Conclusion: The use of uncemented total hip arthroplasty did not show worse results in rheumathologic patients. Level of Evidence III, Retrospective Case Control Study. .