Outcomes of three cannulated screws in a modified triangular transverse configuration for fixation of intra-capsular femoral neck fractures.

BACKGROUND: Intra-capsular femoral neck fractures (FNF) are commonly encountered in trauma settings and are associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality. One of the most used methods of FNF treatment is the use of multiple cannulated screws. Many different screw constructs are reported in the literature, with no evidence of superiority of one construct over others. We present a series of patients treated by one senior surgeon with three cannulated screws positioned in a specific configuration. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We conducted a retrospective monocentric analysis. All charts of patients hospitalized between January 2004 and June 2022 for an intra-capsular femoral neck fracture treated by three cannulated screws by the same senior surgeon were retrieved and analyzed. The clinical and radiological evaluations were performed by two independent researchers. Functional status of patients was assessed using the modified Harris Hip score (mHHS). Complications such as secondary displacement, non-union, avascular necrosis (AVN) and femoral neck shortening were all recorded. RESULTS: A total of 38 patients met the inclusion criteria. There were 17 males and 21 females with an average age of 66.3 ± 13.6 years and a follow-up period of 16 ± 20 months. Bone union was observed in 34 (89.5%) patients. Mild shortening was observed in two patients (5.2%) with no functional limitation. Four patients (10.5%) underwent reoperations, three due to another fall and one due to AVN four years post-fracture fixation. CONCLUSION: In our series, we demonstrate that the use of three cannulated screws in a triangular transverse configuration for fixation of intra-capsular femoral neck fractures provides excellent results with low rates of femoral neck shortening, AVN or non-union.

Distal tibiofibular syndesmosis: A meta-analysis of cadaveric studies.

Though injuries to the distal tibiofibular (DTF) syndesmosis are commonly encountered in orthopedic and trauma settings, its anatomical structures have been poorly researched. The commonly overlooked DTF ligament injuries are known to cause chronic ankle pain, instability and post-traumatic osteoarthritis. Quantitative and morphological evidence synthesis has not been yet conducted. A meta-analysis was conducted to collect data from morphological studies to document more accurate details on the prevalence, size, and insertion sites of its components. The Checklist for Anatomical Reviews and Meta-Analyses (CARMA) was followed. Ten studies met the inclusion criteria with a total of 265 investigated ankles. The analysis demonstrated that the anterior and posterior tibiofibular ligaments along with the interosseous ligament were present in 100% of joints. The inferior transverse tibiofibular and the distal fascicle of the anterior tibiofibular ligament were the least prevalent with frequencies of 96% and 86.5%, respectively. The inferior transverse ligament was recorded as the longest ligament. The widest ligament was found to be the interosseous tibiofibular ligament at its fibular attachment. The thickest of the ligamentous components was the posterior tibiofibular ligament. While more cadaveric research is warranted, these results would help directing future biomechanical investigations and planning new research to further aid in diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to the injuries of the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis.

Update on the role of chromoendoscopy in colonoscopic surveillance of patients with Lynch syndrome.

(Virtual) chromoendoscopy (CE) improves the detection of small or flat colorectal polyps; however, the evidence in high-risk groups, such as patients of Lynch syndrome (LS), is low. Our aim was to identify and update the evidence for the recommendations regarding surveillance of LS patients, for which the current underlying evidence for use of (virtual) CE was explored. A systematic literature search in PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane library was conducted, for all studies comparing (virtual) CE with white-light endoscopy in LS patients. Studies are explained in detail, with special attention to study design, type of (virtual) CE, and timing of polypectomy. Eight studies (409 patients) were included. Five were nonrandomized back-to-back studies and three were randomized back-to-back studies (one parallel and two cross-over design). In six studies the polyps were directly removed, while in two studies polyps were removed only during the second caecal withdrawal. Five studies researched CE with indigo carmine and three studies investigated virtual CE. Due to the heterogeneity between studies, no statistical analysis could be performed. There was a large variety in study design, timing of polypectomy, different (virtual) CE techniques and the patients that were included. Based on current literature, no firm conclusions can be drawn with respect to the additional value of (virtual) CE in the surveillance of patients with LS. However, training of endoscopists in detection and removal of nonpolypoid colorectal neoplasms is crucial, as well as stricter adherence to LS surveillance guidelines in daily clinical practice. For future research, standardization in study designs is needed.

The coracoclavicular joint. A systematic review and meta-analysis.

The coracoclavicular joint (CCJ) is considered as a rare articulation in humans. Though rarely it could be symptomatic, its presence should be acknowledged by physicians. The aim of this systematic review is to conduct an evidence synthesis on the prevalence of this condition in different ethnic populations. Thirty nine studies including 51 sub-studies met the inclusion criteria. The meta-analytical results showed true prevalence values of ≃5%, ≃7% and ≃2.7% from skeletal, cadaveric and radiological studies, respectively. The bilateral occurrence of CCJ was found to be approximately the half of the crude prevalence and that in all study types. European populations showed the least frequency whereas the Eastern Asian and Native American populations showed the highest values in skeletal/cadaveric studies. European, modern American, Native American and modern South American populations showed the least CCJ occurrence rates in radiological studies. The Chinese population stood out from all other ancestries with a prevalence of 21%, followed by the Southeast Asians with a frequency of 6%. No association was found with variables such as sex or side. This evidence-based anatomical and anthropological review shed the light on the rare and poorly investigated CCJ. It yielded more accurate overall and ancestry-based frequencies from skeletal, cadaveric and radiological studies.

Diagnosis and surgical treatment of dysplasia epiphysealis hemimelica. A report of nine cases.

BACKGROUND: Dysplasia epiphysealis hemimelica (DEH) is a rare developmental bone disorder with hemimelic involvement of one or more epiphysis. We report on nine new cases and discuss the clinical manifestations, the value of MRI, and the results of complete and early surgical resection of these lesions. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this retrospective study, nine patients with a diagnosis of DEH were evaluated. Age at presentation ranged from 1 year to 12 years. The main complaint at diagnosis was a swelling bony mass. Angular deformities were recorded in two patients. All patients were surgically treated and followed up clinically and by imaging. Eight patients underwent excision only. RESULTS: The average follow-up was 5.6 years (range, 2-10.5 years). All patients had a good outcome without related symptoms. No epiphysiodesis, angular deformity or recurrence was observed. One patient with femoral lesion involving the distal medial part of the epiphysis developed, four months after surgical excision, a calcification outside the area of total excision. This calcification did not increase in size at two years follow-up. Another patient with lateral involvement of the proximal tibial epiphysis presented a postoperative nervous complication. Spontaneous nervous recovery occurred three months after surgery. DISCUSSION: MRI was useful to find a potential plane of cleavage between the epiphysis and the pathological tissue. We recommend early removing ossifications when a cleavage plane is identified. Waiting a possible complication or increasing of size does not seem logical. Of course, the treatment will be not the same if no cleavage plane is found on MRI. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.

[Hepatitis B: cross-sectional study of knowledge and immunization among students at University of Cocody, Ivory Coast]. / Connaissance et couverture vaccinale contre l'hépatite virale B (HVB) : étude transversale parmi les étudiants de l'université de Cocody, Côte d'Ivoire.

BACKGROUND: To evaluate knowledge about hepatitis B and vaccination coverage among students at Cocody's University, Ivory Coast. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted during the academic year 2005-2006 (2557 students). Parameters were collected by interview using a survey chart. Factors influencing knowledge and vaccination against hepatitis B were analyzed by logistic regression. RESULTS: The majority of students (n=1174, 69.4% [95% CI 68-71]) knew about hepatitis B. Only 17.5% and 26.1% of students respectively were aware of sexual and blood transmission. None of the students were aware of maternal-fetal transmission. Factors associated with knowledge of hepatitis B were enrollment in health sciences (Odds Ratio=24.19 [95% CI 8.65-76.63]) and having a scholarship (Odds Ratio=2.34 [95% CI 1.54-3.56]). Vaccination coverage against hepatitis B was low (Odds Ratio=3.7% [95% CI 3-4]). Factors associated with vaccination were: knowledge of hepatitis B (Odds Ratio=6.83 [95% CI 4.57-10.27]), enrollment in health sciences (Odds Ratio=3.59 [95% CI 2.60-4.96]), marriage (Odds Ratio=2.04 [95% CI 1.13-3.64]) and having a scholarship (Odds Ratio=1.60 [95% CI 1.09-2.35]). CONCLUSION: Knowledge and vaccination coverage against hepatitis B among students at Cocody's University is low. Students should be given information about hepatitis B and access to free vaccination. Students enrolled in health sciences should be vaccinated before admission because of specific risks of contamination, for themselves and for their patients.

Biometry of the calcaneocuboid joint: biomechanical implications.

Precise biometric data of calcaneus, cuboid bones and calcaneocuboid joint are not alluded to in textbooks of anatomy. This study focussed on the biometry of 50 calcanei, 30 cuboid dry bones, and anatomical specimens of 21 transverse tarsal joints. Measurement of the length, width, angular orientation, contact surface and radius of curvature, rolling band of the joints surfaces according to the main axes were performed. The results focussed on biometric variations with several morphological types never identified previously. Measurements obtained on dry bones and anatomical specimens with the functions of ligaments were distinguished. The morphology of the calcaneus could explain the results of osteotomy procedures for the treatment of adult flatfoot. A better knowledge of the joint surfaces and biometric data would generate a modeling of the calcaneocuboid joint and function in locking the transverse tarsal joint.

Proximal femoral osteotomies in children.

The aim of proximal femoral osteotomies (PFO) in children is to restore normal anatomy and optimal joint congruency to prevent medium and long-terms degenerative deterioration of the hip. They play an important role in the treatment of neurological subluxations or dislocations of the hip. Advances in modern imaging and surgical techniques have improved understanding of the anatomical factors associated with a number of disorders of the growing hip and their sequelae. The indications for isolated PFO or associated with other intra- or extraarticular procedures have become more rational and better adapted to the various architectural defects and the femoroacetabular impingements. Two types of osteotomies are described: intertrochanteric osteotomies (varus and valgus correction, valgisation, flexion, extension), and osteotomies of the greater trochanter, either simple or double with lengthening of the femoral neck. Primary stability of the osteosynthesis is the major problem, as it is often affected by osteopenia. The development of new implants (LCP plate) avoids this inconvenience, resulting in geometrically precise osteotomies and a more stable fixation. Even when it is correctly performed, articular congruence is not always managed by PFO alone, it is sometimes necessary to associate acetabular procedures.

[Pediatric colonoscopy at the University Hospital of Cocody (Ivory Coast)]. / Coloscopie pédiatrique: expérience du centre hospitalier universitaire de Cocody (Côte d'Ivoire).

No published data are available on pediatric colonoscopy in Ivory Coast (and only one report on pediatric gastroscopy). We conducted a retrospective study of all colonoscopy reports of procedures performed from 1 September, 1991, to December 31, 2010, at the University Hospital of Cocody in Abidjan (Ivory Coast) and examined the epidemiological aspects, conditions of performance, indications, and results of colonoscopy in patients younger than 18 years. Eleven of the total of 1 159 colonoscopies were performed in in this age group (0.94%). The mean age of these 8 girls and 3 boys was 15 years (range: 10 to 17 years). All patients had been referred by a gastroenterologist. Bowel preparation was performed in all with a water enema. Premedication was performed exclusively with midazolam. A pediatric colonoscope was used. The colonoscopy was incomplete in 36% of cases (n=4). Rectal bleeding was the main indication. Results were abnormal in 72% of cases (n=8) and the lesions found were juvenile polyps, ulcerative colitis, sigmoid varices, rectocolitis due to a caustic product, and adenomatous polyps. The results of the examination were normal in 3 children. No complications were reported. In conclusion, although the pediatric colonoscopy practice at the University Hospital of Cocody in Abidjan is extremely small, its therapeutic and diagnostic yields are high, particularly in cases of rectal bleeding. Physicians (general practitioners and pediatricians) managing children should not hesitate to ask for a colonoscopy when appropriate.

[Diagnosis of hematochezia in Abidjan Cocody University Hospital (Ivory Coast)]. / Diagnostic des rectorragies au centre hospitalier universitaire de Cocody à Abidjan (Côte d'Ivoire)

AIM: To determine the prevalence of endoscopic lesions, according to age and location, in patients with rectal bleeding who underwent total colonoscopy. METHODS: Retrospective observational study examining records from the hepatogastroenterology department at the Cocody University Hospital (Abidjan) of colonoscopies for rectal examination from September 1, 1991, through August 15, 2007. The data collected and analyzed from the records included age, sex and colonoscopy results. A p value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: Of 1,158 colonoscopies, 270 (23.3%) were performed for hematochezia: 105 women (mean age: 48.8 years ± 19.9 years, range: 10-96 years) and 165 men (mean age: 46 ± 14.2, range: 21-83 years) with a sex-ratio (M/F) of 1.57. Because colorectal cancer seems to occur at a younger age in Africa, patients were divided into two groups (aged 45 years: 139 [51.5%] and above 45 years: 131 [48.5%]). The abnormalities found were consistent with anal pathologies (16.3%), polyps (10.4%), diverticular disease (11.1%), colorectal inflammatory lesions (21.5%) and carcinoma (7%). Diverticula were significantly more common in those older than 45 years and inflammatory lesions in the younger group (p < 10(-3)). More than two thirds of the significant lesions were found in the distal colon (p < 10(-3)). CONCLUSION: The predominance of distal colon lesions suggests that exploration by flexible sigmoidoscopy can be performed in patients with low to moderate risk of colorectal cancer, with total colonoscopy reserved for the population at high risk.

[Pediatric upper gastrointestinal endoscopy: experience in a hospital setting in Côte d'Ivoire]. / Endoscopie digestive haute pédiatrique: une expérience hospitalière en Côte d'Ivoire.

AIMS: The purpose of this report was to describe epidemiological aspects of endoscopic upper gastrointestinal endoscopy at a pediatric teaching hospital in Cocody, Côte d'Ivoire. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The records of all patients under 15 years of age who underwent upper gastrointestinal endoscopy in the gastrointestinal endoscopy unit of a teaching hospital of Cocody between January 1, 2000 and April 30, 2006 were reviewed. The following parameters were compiled: age, sex, indications, name of endoscopist, type of sedation, gastric biopsy to detect Helicobacter pylori, and endoscopic findings. RESULTS: Pediatric gastroscopy accounted for 1% of procedures performed in the upper gastrointestinal endoscopy unit. Patient ages ranged from 6 months to 15 years and M/F sex ratio was 0.88. The procedures were ordered by general practitioners in 55% of cases, gastroenterologists in 14%, and pediatricians in 10%. Sedation with intravenous midazolam 0.25 was used in 74% of patients (n = 38). No incident or complication was observed. Tolerance of the examination by the child was considered as poor by the operator in 96% of cases. The main indications for endoscopy were epigastralgia in 54% of cases, vomiting in 13.7%, and gastrointestinal bleeding in 13.7%. The procedure was performed or supervised by an operator with over ten years of experience in gastrointestinal endoscopy in 55.1% and 54.0% of cases respectively. The main endoscopic finding was duodenogastric bile reflux in 23.5% of cases. Gastroscopy was normal in 43% of patients. Gastric biopsy to detect Helicobacter pylori was performed in 23% of patients. CONCLUSION: Pediatric gastroscopy performed under mild sedation by experienced endoscopists is a safe procedure for detecting lesions and obtaining biopsies for histological examination.

[Chronic abdominal pain and fever in an Ivoirian woman: Mycobacterium avium-intracellulare duodenitis in an AIDS patient in Abidjan, Cote d'Ivoire]. / Douleurs abdominales chroniques et fièvre chez une ivoirienne.

Duodenal infection by Mycobacterium avium-intracellulare is a common opportunistic disease in HIV-infected patients. Individuals with CD4 counts <50 cells/mm3 are at highest risk. The main symptoms are diarrhea, abdominal pain, weight loss, and fever. Endoscopic examination shows various abnormalities including disseminated nodules that may be yellowish, whitish, or pinkish in color. Other mucosal lesions may be found such as erosion, erythema, or friable edematous aspect. Since these findings are non-specific, it is important to obtain biopsy specimens for histological and microbiological examination. The most common histologic features are atrophic mucosa resembling Whipple's disease with strongly positive PAS staining. The presence of BARR in macrophages is typical of MAI. Diagnosis is based on identification of the bacteria using either conventional culture techniques or polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Differential diagnosis includes other gastrointestinal infections associated with AIDS, i.e., microsporidiosis, cryptosporidiosis, giardiosis, anguillulosis, CMV, and isoporosis. The course of the disease is usually unfavorable even with antibiotic treatment. The purpose of this report is to describe a case of duodenitis due to atypical mycobacterial infection in a 30-year-old woman who was seropositive for human immunodeficiency virus. She was hospitalized due to fever with deterioration of her general condition (more than 10% of body weight loss) and chronic abdominal pain with inflammation. Diagnosis of MAI was confirmed by biopsy and Ziehl-Neelsen coloration. The patient was treated with rifampicine, isoniazide, ethambutol, and pyrazinamide in association with stavudine, lamuvidine and efavirenz. Despite improvement of general condition, fever persisted and the patient died after 40 days of treatment.

Interactions between the sympathetic nervous system and atrial natriuretic factor in the control of renal functions.

We studied neural influences on the renal actions of atrial peptides in anaesthetized cats by comparing the response to atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) infusion in the innervated kidney and in the contralateral surgically denervated kidney. During ANF infusion arterial pressure decreased, the heart rate did not change and blood flow to both kidneys increased slightly. Vascular conductances became slightly but significantly higher in the denervated kidneys than in the controls. In both kidneys, the glomerular filtration rate increased transiently and significantly. Inhibition of renin release was more prompt and larger in the innervated than in the denervated kidneys. ANF infusion caused a significant increase in sodium and water excretion from both the innervated and denervated kidneys. However, the diuretic and natriuretic effect in the innervated kidneys, although proportionally greater than that in the denervated kidneys, was of shorter duration and subsided after 20 min of ANF infusion. Efferent renal nerve activity did not change during the initial 10 min of ANF infusion but thereafter increased progressively and significantly. We conclude that the effects of atrial peptides on renin release and excretory functions are influenced by renal nerve activity.